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Everything You Need to Know About Installing Curtain Walls

17 June 2025
Vue urbaine de La Défense à Paris avec des façades en mur-rideau et architecture en verre contemporaine.

The installation of curtain walls is based on a rigorous method combining precisionThe installation of a curtain wall requires much more than the installation of glazed panels. Each project requires precise planning, constant coordination between teams and rigorous technical execution. It all starts with a thorough reading of the plans, followed by preparation in the workshop where components are checked, pre-assembled or adapted.

On site, perfect alignment of anchors, precise levelling and adherence to tolerances are essential to ensure watertightness, thermal performance and final aesthetics. The use of specialized tools, such as fracos or adapted lifting systems, enables the elements to be handled safely, even at height.

Finally, a final check is carried out at each stage to ensure that each panel fits perfectly into the architectural whole, without compromising on durability or safety., safety and coordination. We think every step of the way.

 

Key steps For A Successful Installation

Installing a curtain wall is no easy task. Here are the main steps followed by our team:

  • Site assessment and selection of installation equipment
  • Delivery and unloading
  • Precise marking of locations
  • Installation of base and head
  • Checking height and alignment
  • Installation of air-barrier membrane
  • Installation of glazing
  • Installation of finishing plates (pressure, cap)

Each step is validated by our foreman, who guarantees the quality of the work carried out (you can read more about our achievements here).

 

Tools & Equipment: Adapted To Each Situation

Our installers use specialized tools such as :

  • Suction pads and pry bars
  • Lifting platforms
  • Concrete drills, sealant guns
  • And, of course, the essentials: harness, nail bag, Olfa knife…

The size of the curtain wall determines the type of machinery required, a factor we analyze during our initial site visits.

The Importance of A Mistake Free Installation

A positioning error can have major consequences for other trades: flooring, gypsum, exterior finishing. That’s why we speak of zero margin for error rather than “frequent mistakes”. Our experience enables us to lay each section to the exact millimetre.

 

Air & Water Tightness: Rigorous Testing

Some projects require specific leak testing. In these cases, we perform :

  • Installation of a hermetic polyethylene film on the inside
  • Pressurized water test on the outside
  • Controlled vacuum on the inside

These tests validate the curtain wall’s performance under real-life conditions (see applicable standards on the NRC website).

Rigorous Execution, Even Under The Most Demanding Conditions

Handling the challenges of the terrain
Limited access, working at height, extreme weather conditions… our team is prepared for every eventuality. Cranes, tight planning, winter work – every challenge is an opportunity to demonstrate our flexibility and professionalism.

This ability to adapt goes hand in hand with impeccable organization on site.

On-site coordination: the key to success
Our foreman takes part in weekly coordination meetings with other subcontractors. He ensures that our installations fit seamlessly into the overall progress of the project, without slowing down the other teams. This collaborative approach is essential to ensure a smooth and efficient worksite.

To guarantee a result that lives up to expectations, this coordination also relies on constant quality control.

To find out more about coordination and collaboration, our article on optimizing collaboration on site is ideal.

Quality control and final delivery
Visual inspections are carried out throughout the installation. At the end of the project, a list of deficiencies is provided by the architect, which we correct point by point to deliver an uncompromising product. Our goal: zero rework.

How Long Does An Installation Last On Average?

Our projects generally take 8 months to a year to complete, including :

  • Layout
  • Curtain wall installation
  • Glazing integration
  • Installation of doors, thresholds and interior glazing
  • Final cleaning

Each phase is designed to optimize time and resources, without compromising quality.

As a result, we like to say that every job tells a story. Giant cranes lifting entire sections of curtain wall, surprise snowfall in the middle of installation, or meticulous coordination with subcontractors – these are the moments that testify to our mastery of reality and our passion for our craft. Building is for everyone.

In conclusion

Installing a curtain wall is much more than a technical gesture: it’s a science of precision and a collective discipline. It’s important to take pride in your work. That’s why we believe that a well-installed curtain wall is the reflection of a well-coordinated team and know-how passed on with rigor.