Façades

What is a glass façade or curtain wall system?

A glass façade is a façade that consists largely of glass, usually supported by an aluminium curtain wall system. Such a façade provides maximum light, transparency and a modern look, while the aluminium profiles guarantee stability, insulation and durability at the same time.

Reynaers Aluminium offers various solutions for glass façades: ConceptWall 50, ConceptWall 60 and SlimWall 35, amongst others. They differ in appearance and construction, but have one thing in common: they combine comfort, sustainability and design in one smart façade solution.

Browse our full façade offering here.

What sizes are Reynaers' facades are available in?

The minimum and maximum sizes that can be achieved with our curtain walling systems are listed on each product page on our website (within the 'Technical information' section). Refer to the 'Properties' section.

This information is also available within our product brochures, which you can download here.

What is the difference between a stick curtain wall and unitised façade system?

A stick system such as Reynaers Aluminium ConceptWall 50, ConceptWall 60 or SlimWall 35 is built piece by piece on site:

Individual components (vertical mullions, horizontal transoms, glass panels) are delivered separately
The frame is assembled and glazed on the building itself
Installation is more labour-intensive and slower
Typically used for smaller projects or where site access is tight
Offers more flexibility for adjustments during installation

A unitised system such as Reynaers Element Façade 7 is pre-assembled in a factory:

Large panels (including frame, glass, and sometimes insulation) are manufactured off-site
These “units” are delivered ready-made and simply installed onto the building
Much faster installation on site
Better quality control due to factory conditions
Ideal for large, high-rise buildings
Requires more upfront planning and precise design

Key Difference in Simple Terms

Stick system = built on-site, piece by piece
Unitised system = built in a factory, installed as complete panels

In practice, unitised systems are preferred for modern commercial towers because they save time and improve consistency, while stick systems are still common for smaller or more complex bespoke projects.

How do I take advantage of Reynaers’ 10-year system guarantee?

To ensure your Reynaers Aluminium system is covered by our 10-year system guarantee, a number of requirements must be met during fabrication, installation and throughout the life of the product. This includes (but is not exclusive to) the following:

When choosing a fabricator or installer, ensure they have the appropriate, up-to-date training and qualifications in place, such as GQA accreditation.
During fabrication and installation, the correct approved sealants and adhesives must be used. Refer to our product manuals for further information.
Once installation is complete, you will receive a Reynaers guarantee pack, along with a copy of our Care and Maintenance brochure. Be sure to check your fabricator has the relevant maintenance documentation, as your system must be maintained in line with the guidance provided in these documents. If you have any questions regarding maintenance or require post-installation support, your fabricator should be your first point of contact.

For details, click here to refer to our guarantee.

What U-values do I need to meet to comply with building regulations?

For building projects in England, the required U-values depend on the project type and the applicable Building Regulations. As a general guide under Approved Document L (Conservation of Fuel and Power):

Replacement windows and doors in existing dwellings should achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or below, or a Window Energy Rating (WER) of Band B or better.
New dwellings typically require windows and doors to achieve a maximum U-value of 1.2 W/m²K, although the overall energy performance of the building is assessed through SAP calculations.
Commercial buildings are assessed under the non-domestic requirements of Approved Document L, where U-value targets vary depending on the building type and the project's overall energy strategy.

It's important to note that U-values are only one part of Building Regulations compliance. Factors such as air permeability, solar gain (g-value), thermal bridging, and overall building performance must also be considered.

Your fabricator or system supplier can advise on the most appropriate solution to ensure your project meets the relevant Building Regulations while achieving the desired aesthetic and performance requirements.

Reynaers offers a broad range of systems that comply with building regulations. Click here to discuss your specific project requirements with our team.

What building regulations do I need to consider when specifying and installing windows, doors, and curtain walling?

It’s important to discuss your project's specific requirements with your chosen fabricator or installer to ensure the most appropriate window, door, or curtain walling solution is specified.

As a minimum, your project should comply with the relevant Building Regulations for England, including:

Approved Document Q: Sets out requirements for the security performance of doors and windows in new dwellings to help prevent unauthorised access.
Approved Document L: Conservation of Fuel and Power: Covers thermal performance and energy efficiency, including U-values and airtightness requirements.
Approved Document M: Ensures buildings are accessible and inclusive, with requirements for features such as thresholds, door widths, and ease of operation.
Approved Document F: Specifies minimum ventilation requirements to help maintain good indoor air quality and reduce the risk of condensation and mould.
Approved Document K: Covers safety glazing, guarding, and other measures to reduce the risk of injury.

Depending on the type, location, and intended use of your building, other Building Regulations may also apply. Your fabricator, installer, architect, or building control body can advise on the specific requirements for your project.

Alternatively, discuss your project requirements with a member of our team.

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