What role do aluminum frames play in the performance of curtain wall systems?

Aluminum frames are the backbone of most modern curtain wall systems because they offer an ideal balance of strength, light weight and versatility. For metal-glass façades in the Gulf region, aluminum’s high strength-to-weight ratio enables slender profiles that maximize glass area while meeting wind-load requirements for tall buildings in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Extrusion technology allows complex cross-sections to be manufactured with integrated thermal breaks, drainage channels and gaskets—all essential for thermal performance and moisture control. Thermal breaks, typically made from engineered polyamide, interrupt conductive heat transfer through the aluminum and are crucial to achieving low U-values in hot climates. Aluminum’s natural corrosion resistance is further enhanced through anodizing or high-performance PVDF coatings to resist salt spray and UV degradation in coastal environments. From a sustainability standpoint, aluminum is fully recyclable, and precision extrusion tolerances enable predictable fabrication and easier installation. As curtain wall specialists, we custom-design aluminum profiles to integrate with our glazing, anchorage, and shading systems, ensuring the overall façade meets structural, thermal and aesthetic targets for Gulf projects. Proper finish selection and detailing, alongside routine maintenance of coatings and gaskets, keep aluminum-framed curtain walls performing optimally over decades.