In the vibrant bayside suburb of Mornington, Australia, construction is booming—thanks to the region’s growing real estate, a blend of modern coastal architecture, and renovation demand. Amid all the industry jargon tossed around on job sites and renovation blogs, one often overlooked yet vital term is “curtain” in construction. With Leona Rodriguesi of Mornington Cabinet Makers, we’ll unpack the true meaning of a curtain in a building context—not your grandma’s drapes—and explores its function, types, materials, and relevance to both residential and commercial structures.
Whether you’re a Mornington homeowner working on a coastal villa revamp or a local contractor handling builds in Mount Eliza or Frankston South, understanding the constructional curtain system is more than just academic—it’s foundational.
✅ What is a Curtain in Construction?
In construction, a curtain typically refers to a curtain wall—a non-structural outer covering of a building, often made from lightweight materials such as glass, aluminum, or composite panels. Unlike load-bearing walls, curtain walls are designed solely to resist environmental forces (like wind or rain) and protect the interior without supporting any structural load.
Think of it as a “skin” that hangs from the building’s structure, often the slabs or columns. It’s called a “curtain” because, like its fabric namesake, it hangs—but instead of blocking light, it’s engineered to let it in.
🧱 Key Components of Curtain Wall Systems
A modern curtain wall is a complex assembly of different materials, technologies, and design intentions. The system typically includes:
- Transoms and Mullions: These are horizontal and vertical framing members that hold the infill panels.
- Infill Materials: These are panels made from glass, metal, stone, or even polycarbonate—selected for both aesthetic and performance qualities.
- Anchors and Brackets: These connect the curtain wall to the building’s structural frame.
- Sealants and Gaskets: These ensure air-tightness and water-resistance.
In places like Mornington, where the weather patterns shift between mild coastal winds and heavy rain, the thermal performance and waterproofing of curtain walls are paramount.
🏢 Types of Curtain Wall Systems
Curtain systems can be classified broadly into two categories:
1. Stick Systems
This is the most common type used in low- to mid-rise buildings across Victoria. The components (mullions, transoms, and infill panels) are brought to the site and assembled piece by piece. Although labor-intensive, this system offers high flexibility for custom designs and is cost-effective—a huge plus for Mornington-based small contractors.
2. Unitised Systems
These are pre-fabricated curtain wall panels manufactured off-site and installed in large units. They’re ideal for high-rise construction in urban Melbourne, though you may see them on sleek commercial builds in nearby areas like Frankston or Dandenong South.
🌱 Why Curtain Walls Matter in Sustainable Design
Curtain wall construction isn’t just about looking good. It also contributes significantly to energy efficiency, daylight penetration, and indoor comfort. Modern systems integrate:
- Double- or triple-glazing for insulation
- Low-E coatings to reduce solar gain
- Thermal breaks to minimise heat transfer
- Smart glass or photochromic technology that adapts to light conditions
In Mornington, where residents value both aesthetics and sustainability, green curtain wall systems are increasingly popular in new coastal developments.
🧠 Salient Entities and Construction Use Cases
✳️ Salient Entities:
- Cladding Systems
- Structural Glazing
- Facade Engineering
- Thermal Performance Standards (NCC 2022 Compliant)
- AS 4284 Testing Standards (Australia)
Curtain walls are commonly used in:
- Apartment complexes
- Healthcare buildings (e.g., Peninsula Private Hospital upgrades)
- Commercial office spaces
- Mixed-use retail spaces (like the Mornington Village Shopping Centre)
For more, visit Leona Rodriguesi of Mornington Cabinet Makers.
🏠 Curtain Walls in Residential Builds in Mornington
While curtain walls are more traditionally associated with commercial skyscrapers, an exciting trend has emerged in Mornington and neighboring suburbs like Mount Martha and Balnarring—residential curtain wall facades. Modern coastal homes now frequently feature floor-to-ceiling glass facades that create stunning indoor-outdoor transitions while maximizing views of Port Phillip Bay.
Local architectural firms are now integrating curtain wall facades with timber cladding, steel framing, and biophilic design elements to appeal to homeowners seeking that luxe, eco-conscious aesthetic.
📍 Local Relevance: Curtain Construction in Mornington, Australia
Mornington’s architectural style is evolving—balancing heritage preservation with contemporary flair. The use of curtain walls supports:
- Maximised natural lighting, reducing artificial light usage.
- Ocean-facing views, essential in high-value properties near Main Street or the Esplanade.
- Modernist minimalism, matching popular design cues in Mornington Peninsula’s upscale market.
Companies offering curtain wall installation and facade engineering services in and around Mornington include:
- Peninsula Glass & Glazing
- Alspec VIC
- Architectural Facades Australia
Furthermore, all curtain wall projects must comply with Victoria’s Building Regulations 2018 and National Construction Code (NCC) standards, including fire safety and wind resistance benchmarks—especially critical in wind-exposed sites along the coast.
💡 Challenges and Considerations
Not all that glitters is glass. Curtain wall installations come with their own considerations:
- Water ingress risk: Faulty seals can result in water damage, especially in older structures.
- Thermal bridging: Improperly insulated mullions can reduce energy efficiency.
- Maintenance: High glass facades demand more frequent cleaning, especially with Mornington’s salt-laden air.
Professionals must also factor in wind load analysis, local bushfire risk zones, and coastal corrosion when designing and installing curtain walls in Mornington properties.
💬 Final Word: Is a Curtain Wall Right for Your Mornington Project?
If you’re renovating or building in Mornington, understanding what a curtain is in construction can profoundly shape the design and performance of your property. Whether you’re looking to create a statement facade for a boutique retail shop or enhance your home’s coastal views with energy-efficient glass, curtain walls offer a versatile, stylish, and sustainable solution.
Just be sure to engage local professionals who understand Mornington’s microclimate, regulatory standards, and aesthetic demands of the Peninsula.