#1531993
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· Tampa
What curtainwall is
Curtainwall is a non-load-bearing exterior wall system that hangs off the building structure rather than sitting on the floor. It attaches at slab edges and transfers wind load horizontally to the structure. Curtainwall framing is deeper than storefront (typically 4½"–7½") to span longer distances and resist higher design pressures.
Three families of curtainwall, by fabrication method:
- Stick-built — assembled member-by-member on site. Most common in Florida commercial work. Lower factory cost, higher field labor.
- Unitized — pre-glazed factory panels shipped to site and hung on the structure. Used on high-rise where field labor cost and schedule compression matter.
- Ladder / pre-assembled — intermediate approach. Vertical mullions pre-assembled in shop, horizontals and glass installed in field.
Three families of curtainwall, by glazing method:
- Captured (pressure-cap) — glass held by aluminum cap and gasket. Most economical. Visible cap line on exterior.
- Structural silicone glazing (SSG) — glass bonded to frame with structural silicone. Flush exterior — no visible mullion cap. Premium aesthetic.
- Point-supported / spider — glass held by stainless-steel fittings without conventional framing. Used in lobbies, atriums, signature entrances.
Systems we install
ACG installs the full commercial curtainwall line from our authorized manufacturer partners:
| System | Manufacturer | Family | Max DP | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES8000T | ESWindows (Tecnoglass) | Thermal stick-built / SSG | +90 / −120 PSF | Energy-targeted office, mid-rise |
| ES7000 (LMI) | ESWindows | Pre-glazed window wall / CW hybrid | +125 / −150 PSF | High-rise envelope |
| Euro-Wall Pressure-Cap | Euro-Wall | Stick-built pressure-cap | Project-engineered | Hospitality, clubhouse, luxury |
| ESWindows ES-CS1325 | ESWindows | Unitized thermal | Per NOA | High-rise tower, Class A office |
Design pressures are tested-assembly maximums. Actual project DPs depend on glass make-up, anchor spacing, and assembly configuration. Send drawings for project-specific verification.
How we work
1. Drawing review & system selection
Send architectural drawings to [email protected]. We review for system applicability, identify NOA-listed assemblies that match the wind load and aesthetic intent, and flag spec conflicts before submittal.
2. NOA & FPA documentation
For HVHZ projects we deliver Miami-Dade NOA cover sheets, installation instructions, configuration limits, and a glazing schedule keyed to the architect’s elevations.
3. Signed/sealed engineering
Florida-licensed engineer reviews anchor calculations and confirms the assembly falls inside the NOA limits for the project wind zone.
4. Fabrication & field installation
Crews from our WPB, Naples, and Tampa offices, supported by manufacturer-trained installers. Unitized projects coordinate with the factory ship schedule.
5. AAMA 502 testing & close-out
Field water testing scheduled per AHJ requirement and witnessed by ACG and the GC. Warranty package, NOA close-out, and maintenance schedule delivered.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between stick-built and unitized curtainwall?
Stick-built is assembled member-by-member on site; unitized is pre-glazed at the factory and hung on the structure as panels. Unitized has higher factory cost but faster field installation and tighter QC — typically used on high-rise above ~8 stories.
How much does commercial curtainwall cost in Florida in 2026?
Installed cost runs $95–$180 per square foot. HVHZ NOA assemblies add ~20%. See full pricing data.
When is curtainwall required over storefront?
When the assembly spans floor-to-floor or multi-story, exceeds ~10 ft height, requires deflection ≤ L/240, or specifies structural silicone glazing for a flush aesthetic. See the full decision framework.
Is SSG (structural silicone glazing) more expensive?
SSG runs 8–15% more than pressure-cap curtainwall. The premium buys a flush exterior, deeper thermal break, and tighter water performance.
Related ACG resources
Have a project?
Send drawings to ACG. We’ll review system selection, code path, and budget — no charge. Florida CGC #1531993. 350+ projects.