Weep Systems In Curtain Walls 

Bullet-resistant glass curtain wall systems are designed to provide maximum protection from a wide range of threats. These include ballistics, forced entry attempts, severe weather and even explosions in some cases. Despite their robust design and impact-resistant materials, however, these systems can be compromised by something as simple as a buildup of moisture inside the frames. Water, unfortunately, can seep into curtain wall systems and cause a lot of damage without a proper way to drain it. This is why it’s critical to have weep systems in curtain walls to provide a means of escape for moisture to keep everything dry. Read on to learn more about how these help maintain the integrity and performance of a bullet-resistant curtain wall system in ways that go beyond its durability. 

Components and Design Considerations for Weep Systems

Curtain walls designed with weep systems allow moisture that collects inside the glazing pocket to drain out of it. This prevents the water from building up inside where it can harm the materials and lead to structure damage over time. The key elements of a weep system include the weep holes, which are the points at which the water drains out of the curtain wall. These systems also include the pressure plates which help secure the glass to the frame outside the mullions. These plates also may feature weep holes. Zone dams are installed at the vertical of each horizontal mullion, where they serve to block water from getting into the vertical mullion. Everything is sealed with rubber or plastic gaskets to prevent water penetration. 

Designing these systems for window walls requires careful consideration of the size of the window as well as the conditions. For example, the weep holes must be large enough to allow water to leave the system as quickly as possible to prevent buildup. The gaskets surrounding each glass panel also must be replaced from time to time, as they can start to deteriorate with constant exposure to the elements. Cracked and worn gaskets create channels where water easily can seep into the glazing pocket and cause problems.  

Impact on Thermal Performance and Structural Integrity

Weep systems for curtain walling are an important tool for protecting the thermal performance and structural integrity of the entire system. They help prevent the buildup of moisture inside the windows, which can have an indirect effect on heat loss and help prevent damage to gaskets and other insulating materials that have a direct impact on thermal performance. Allowing water to escape the curtain walls also helps maintain the structural integrity of the building overall by preventing materials from succumbing to water damage.  

Even a few drops of water inside a curtain wall system can have disastrous consequences if not properly addressed. This is what makes weep systems so vital for the continued success of your property’s ballistic protection. To learn more about how U.S. Bullet Proofing designs the most advanced and sophisticated bullet-resistant curtain wall systems in the industry, reach out and talk to a member of our team today.