Commercial window wall systems

What window wall is

Window wall is a non-load-bearing exterior glazing system installed between slabs — the bottom of each story’s window wall rests on (or anchors to) the slab below, and the top tucks under the slab above. Window wall is stacked floor by floor.

This is different from curtainwall, which hangs outside the slab edges as one continuous skin. Window wall is more economical, sequences naturally with concrete construction, but typically caps out at ~10 stories.

Common applications:

• Multifamily — podium and stick-built up to 8 stories
• Mid-rise condo
• Select-service hotels (4–10 stories)
• Mixed-use ground-floor retail + upper-floor residential
• Senior living and assisted-living

Systems we install

Source: ESWindows technical datasheets and Miami-Dade Product Control NOA database.

Window wall vs curtainwall — when window wall wins

Use window wall when:

• Multifamily, condo, or mid-rise hotel up to ~10 stories
• Construction sequence is slab-then-glaze-then-slab
• Visible horizontal slab bands are acceptable aesthetically

Use curtainwall when assembly is Class A office, hotel tower, or requires flush SSG aesthetic. Full decision framework.

Frequently asked questions

Can window wall be impact-rated for HVHZ?

Yes. ESWindows ES7000 holds a Miami-Dade NOA (23-0724.09) with design pressures to +125/−150 PSF.

What’s the height limit on window wall?

~10 stories is the practical limit. Above that, wind load and anchor capacity push you to curtainwall.

How is window wall waterproofed?

Sloped slab edge with back-dam, self-adhering flashing turn-down, and a sealed perimeter at head and jamb. AAMA 502 field water testing typically required on HVHZ.

Related ACG resources