What is the difference between rainscreen cladding and curtain walling?

Both building systems protect and enhance the exterior of buildings, however, their function and what lies behind the systems are different.

In a nutshell:

• The choice between curtain walling and rainscreen cladding often comes down to specific needs, architectural goals, and performance requirements.

• Curtain walling is often made up of glass panels whereas rainscreen cladding can come in a range of materials such as metal, terracotta, stone and fibre cement.

• Curtain walling includes a water drainage system and rainscreen cladding incorporates a ventilated cavity to remove moisture.

• Rainscreen cladding includes an insulation layer to enhance acoustic and thermal performance whereas curtain walling incorporates insulating materials and double or triple glazing.

• Rainscreen cladding offers more creative flexibility in terms of design as it is available in a wide range of aesthetic options. Curtain walling is a good option for a sleek and modern appearance with large expanses of glass.

Curtain walling and rainscreen cladding are both essential components in modern building design, but they serve different purposes and offer distinct benefits. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs, architectural goals, and performance requirements of the project.

Design and Construction

Curtain walling is designed as a continuous façade system with a framework of mullions and transoms that hold the panels together. Material options include glass, aluminium, and sometimes stone or other lightweight materials, emphasising transparency and aesthetics.

Rainscreen cladding systems consists of an outer layer, a ventilated cavity, insulation and a backing wall. It can be made of a variety of materials depending on aesthetic and performance requirements, however it is most often made up of aluminium.

Moisture Management

Curtain walling is designed to be a sealed barrier that prevents water and air infiltration with sealants, gaskets, and glazing units. It uses built-in drainage systems to channel away any water that penetrates the outer surface.

Rainscreen cladding utilises a ventilated cavity between the cladding and the building’s exterior wall to allow air to circulate and remove moisture.

Thermal and Acoustic Performance

Curtain walling can incorporate insulating materials and double or triple glazing to enhance thermal performance. Energy efficiency can also be a factor through low-emissivity glass and thermal breaks.

Rainscreen cladding features an insulation layer between the backing wall and the ventilated cavity that provides effective thermal performance.

Aesthetic and Design Flexibility

Curtain walling provides a sleek and modern appearance with large expanses of glass and minimum framing which makes it a great design choice for high-rise and commercial buildings.


Rainscreen cladding is available in a wide range of aesthetic options in various materials, colours, textures, and finishes. It allows for creative and unique architectural design, suitable for both contemporary and traditional styles.