verhoseinät

Verhoseinät, which translates to "curtain walls" in English, are a common architectural element primarily used in modern construction. They are non-load-bearing exterior walls that enclose a building. Unlike traditional masonry or concrete walls that are integral to the structural support of a building, curtain walls are designed to resist environmental forces such as wind and seismic loads and to keep out the weather. The weight of the building is supported by the interior structural frame.

The term "curtain wall" implies that the wall hangs like a curtain from the building's structure. This system typically consists of a lightweight metal framework, often aluminum, which is attached to the building's structural frame. This framework is then infilled with glass, metal panels, or other thin materials. The use of glass is particularly prevalent, leading to the widespread adoption of glass curtain walls that allow natural light to penetrate deep into the building's interior.

Curtain walls offer several advantages. They are relatively lightweight, which can reduce the load on the foundation. Their prefabricated nature allows for faster installation, and they can be designed to incorporate a high degree of thermal insulation and acoustic performance. The aesthetic possibilities are also vast, enabling architects to create sleek, modern facades. However, they require careful detailing to prevent water penetration and air leakage, and their long-term maintenance, especially for glass components, is a consideration in their design and specification.