Key points for waterproofing joints of aluminum panel curtain walls
Aluminum panel curtain walls belong to open or semi-open outer enclosure structures. Waterproofing of panel joints is the core process in curtain wall construction. Improper treatment can easily lead to water seepage, affecting indoor use.
Waterproofing for aluminum panel curtain walls follows the principle of "guidance as the priority, with sealing as a supplement." Leaving reasonable gaps between panels and matching weather sealant is the most commonly used sealing method. The width of the slab gap is calculated based on the sheet size and temperature deformation. If the gap is too narrow, thermal expansion and contraction will tear the adhesive layer; Gaps that are too wide increase the amount of glue used and also affect the appearance.
Gluing operations have environmental requirements. The construction environment temperature is generally between 5°C and 35°C, keeping the board surface dry. Sealant application should not be carried out on rainy or condensation days. Before applying sealant, clean the dust and oil stains inside the gaps, apply masking tape to prevent the adhesive from contaminating the surface coating of the aluminum panel.
The sealant should be weather-resistant silicone sealant specifically designed for curtain walls, and confirm compatibility with the aluminum panel coating to prevent chemical reactions that could cause discoloration of the panel. The glue joints need to be full and continuous, with foam rods placed inside, controlling the depth of the glue joints, avoiding adhesion on three sides, and preventing the adhesive layer from cracking under stress.
In addition to external sealing, concealed and semi-concealed frame curtain walls must also be properly designed for internal drainage. A small amount of water vapor that seeps in is discharged through the internal drainage channels of the curtain wall to prevent water accumulation.
After completion, a water spray test should be conducted to verify the waterproofing effect. Regular inspection of sealant joints in the later stage to observe for cracking or delamination, and replacing aging joints promptly to ensure long-term reliable waterproofing performance of aluminum panel curtain walls.
