Stick Vs Unitised Curtain Walling System

Despite stick and unitised curtain walling systems both being used to protect the exterior of buildings from damage which can be incurred from bad weather, violent attacks or falling debris, both options come with their differences which allows you to choose the best option for you, depending on the specific requirements of your premises, building and schedule.

Differences Between Each System

Manufacturing 

Stick systems are manufactured as individual components such as glass, mullions, transoms. Unitised systems are manufactured as larger complete products which include less individual products and fixings. They undergo strict quality control testing to ensure that they are suitable for use and ready for installation. 

Logistics

Unitised systems must be transported in larger vehicles due to their excessive size compared to stick systems which are transported in component form, normally in boxes and protective material. This allows them to be transported in fewer and smaller vehicles. 

Assembly And Installation Differences 

Stick systems are assembled on site which requires high amounts of skill and time due to their sealing, alignment and fixing requirements. Unitised systems can be installed much quicker due to the products already being pre-assembled. 

Cost Differences

Unitised curtain walling systems are more expensive to manufacture due to the increase in manufacturing and quality control requirements that the systems are subject to in the factory. Logistics for unitised curtain walling systems are also more expensive as they require larger vehicles, which incur higher transportation costs compared to smaller vehicles used for stick systems. Additionally, accommodating these larger vehicles often demands more space for parking and unloading at the site, further increasing logistical expenses. 

Stick curtain walling systems are cheaper to manufacture and transport as there are fewer manufacturing and quality control requirements that they must go through before they leave the factory and are transported. Assembly and installation costs are much greater for stick systems compared to unitised systems because the components have to be individually assembled by hand which increases labour costs because of the skill and time that is required. 

Stick Vs Unitised Curtain Walling Systems 

Advantages Of Stick Curtain Walling Systems 

• More suitable for buildings with complex designs as the components can be adjusted in both of the design and installation stages 
• Easier logistical transport as fewer and smaller vans are required. 
• Cheaper to manufacture and transport 
• Easier to maintain and repair 
• Highly adaptable to renovations as they are upgradable and can integrate with new or existing structural components