Structural glazing is a modern technology increasingly used for cladding the facades of private houses, public buildings, shopping malls, shops, and business centers. This technique allows for the creation of sleek, elegant facades by fastening double-glazed windows without visible clamping elements, giving buildings a contemporary and stylish appearance.
Structural glazing involves the attachment of double-glazed windows to a building’s frame using silicone sealant. This method allows for the creation of a continuous glass surface without visible fasteners, providing a monolithic appearance that enhances the architectural appeal of any structure. The absence of mechanical fasteners and the minimal joints between glass panels (typically 1-2 cm) create a facade that appears seamless and reduces the accumulation of dirt and dust.
Several iconic buildings around the world showcase the use of structural glazing, including:
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin), London: Designed by Norman Foster, this building is an excellent example of structural glazing, with its sleek, curved glass facade that creates a unique and futuristic appearance.
Apple Park, Cupertino: The main building of Apple’s headquarters features a continuous curved glass facade, making it one of the most impressive examples of structural glazing on a large scale.
The Louvre Pyramid, Paris: Designed by I.M. Pei, the glass pyramid entrance to the Louvre Museum uses structural glazing to create a transparent, modern contrast to the historic architecture around it.
Structural glazing can be installed using two main methods: double-sided fixing and four-sided fixing.
In the double-sided method, vertical and horizontal fixing elements are attached to the supporting structure. The silicone sealant is applied to two sides of the glazing unit, while mechanical fasteners take on the load for the other two sides. This method is commonly used in projects where the structural integrity of the facade needs to be balanced with aesthetic considerations.
The four-sided method involves applying silicone sealant to all four sides of the glazing unit. Depending on the project, the weight of the structure may be supported either by the silicone layer or by supporting ribs. This method provides greater flexibility in design and is often used in more complex architectural projects.
The primary material used in structural glazing is silicone sealant, which bonds the glass to the building’s frame. Silicone sealants are available in various colors, including colorless options, allowing for seamless integration with the facade’s design. Leading brands such as Dow Corning, Tremco illbruck, UltraGlaze, and Sikasil produce high-performance sealants that can withstand temperature fluctuations from -30°C to +40°C.
In addition to silicone sealant, tempered glass is typically used for the outer layer of the glazing units, while triplex glass is used for the inner layer. This combination of materials ensures both the strength and safety of the structure.
Structural glazing requires precise installation to ensure the facade’s durability and performance. The frame must be processed to allow for minimal joints (1-2 cm) between the glass panels, which accommodate temperature fluctuations. It’s also crucial that the supporting structure maintains absolute rigidity, as any deflections in the floor slabs could compromise the integrity of the facade.
Structural glazing offers a modern, sleek solution for building facades, combining aesthetic appeal with durability and ease of maintenance. By using advanced materials and precise installation techniques, architects can create stunning glass facades that enhance natural light and provide a unique visual identity to any building.
If you are considering structural glazing for your commercial or residential project, or if you would like to learn more about related glass products such as back-painted glass, feel free to contact us today. Our team is here to help you develop the perfect project that meets your specific needs and budget.
