Global Curtain Walls Market Outlook, 2030

The curtain wall industry, which revolves around the design, manufacture, and installation of non-structural exterior walls for buildings, has witnessed significant evolution over the years. Curtain walls are made of lightweight materials like glass, metal, and stone, which not only offer aesthetic appeal but also provide environmental benefits, enhancing the overall energy efficiency of a building. These walls are widely used in modern commercial buildings, residential towers, and industrial complexes, contributing to the transformation of urban architecture. The global curtain wall market has been experiencing steady growth driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient building materials and sustainable construction practices. As urbanization accelerates and real estate development projects continue to rise in both developed and emerging economies, the need for curtain wall systems is expected to expand rapidly. Additionally, the construction industry’s shift towards green buildings and the incorporation of advanced insulation and energy-saving technologies has bolstered the popularity of curtain walls. Some of the major players in the global curtain wall market include companies such as Schüco International, Kawneer, YKK AP, Zhongtai International, and China State Construction Engineering Corporation. These companies offer a wide range of curtain wall systems, including unitized, stick-built, and semi-unitized systems, catering to various building requirements and customer preferences. They are also focusing on innovation and the development of high-performance products to meet the increasing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable buildings.

According to the research report “Global Curtain Wall Market Outlook, 2030” published by Bonafide Research, the global market is projected to reach market size of USD 102.61 Billion by 2030 increasing from USD 68.19 Billion in 2024, growing with 7.20% CAGR by 2025-30. The evolution and innovation within the curtain wall industry have been significant drivers of its growth and success. Over the years, curtain wall systems have transformed from basic structural facades to highly advanced, multifunctional components that integrate cutting-edge technologies. Initially, curtain walls were simply designed to provide an aesthetic, non-load bearing exterior, often using glass and metal materials to achieve a sleek, modern look. However, as demands for energy-efficient buildings and sustainability increased, curtain wall systems evolved to incorporate high-performance materials, such as low-emissivity glass, insulated panels, and photovoltaic glazing that help reduce a building's energy consumption. Innovations such as smart glass, which adjusts transparency based on external conditions, and the use of recycled materials, have further advanced the industry, making curtain walls not only more efficient but also environmentally responsible. The integration of technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) has also played a pivotal role, enhancing the design, accuracy, and efficiency of curtain wall systems. As sustainability, energy efficiency, and design flexibility continue to be at the forefront of the industry, the curtain wall market will likely see further innovations that improve performance and functionality, pushing the boundaries of architectural design and construction.

Market Drivers

• Demand for Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Buildings: The growing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency has been a major driver for the curtain wall industry. As building codes and regulations become more stringent, especially in energy consumption and environmental impact, curtain walls are being increasingly designed with high-performance materials such as double-glazed, low-emissivity glass and insulated frames. These materials help to reduce heat loss, improve thermal performance, and enhance energy efficiency in buildings, making curtain walls a crucial element for both commercial and residential structures aiming for green building certifications such as LEED.
• Urbanization and High-rise Development: As urban populations continue to rise, cities are expanding vertically with more high-rise buildings and skyscrapers. This demand for vertical construction has significantly driven the growth of the curtain wall industry. Curtain walls are ideal for tall buildings as they provide a lightweight, durable, and aesthetically pleasing facade that enhances the building’s appearance while also meeting the structural and environmental needs of modern high-rise architecture.

Market Challenges

• High Initial Installation and Maintenance Costs: Curtain walls, especially those using advanced glazing technologies, come with high upfront installation costs due to the specialized materials and complex installation processes involved. Additionally, while curtain walls can be long-lasting, their maintenance can be costly and complex, especially for taller buildings. Ensuring proper maintenance, including cleaning and replacing damaged elements, is essential to maintain both aesthetic appeal and functionality, which can be a financial burden for building owners.
• Weather and Environmental Factors: Curtain walls, being exposed to the elements, are susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as extreme weather, UV radiation, and pollution. For example, high winds, heavy rain, or temperature fluctuations can lead to material degradation over time. Additionally, curtain walls in coastal areas or regions with high pollution may face more rapid wear and tear, requiring frequent repairs or replacements. This challenge necessitates advancements in material technology to ensure durability and resilience.

Market Trends

• Integration of Smart and Sustainable Technologies: One of the key trends in the curtain wall industry is the integration of smart technologies that enhance building performance. Smart glass and dynamic facades that adjust based on weather conditions or sunlight exposure are becoming more common. These systems can optimize natural lighting, control heat absorption, and reduce energy consumption. Furthermore, the incorporation of sustainable materials, such as recycled content or those that contribute to energy generation (e.g., photovoltaic panels integrated into the curtain wall system), is an emerging trend in response to the global push for eco-friendly buildings.
• Customization and Aesthetic Innovation: Another trend shaping the curtain wall market is the growing demand for customizable and aesthetically innovative curtain wall systems. As architects and designers push for more personalized, unique building facades, curtain walls are evolving to offer greater flexibility in terms of shapes, sizes, and finishes. Advanced fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, as well as the use of various materials (e.g., glass, metal, and stone), allow for the creation of more distinctive and artistic designs. This trend not only enhances the building’s visual appeal but also meets the increasing demand for tailor-made solutions that reflect the identity and brand of the structures they adorn.

New construction is leading the curtain wall market due to the rising demand for modern architectural designs, energy-efficient building materials, and the increasing trend of high-rise buildings.

The primary driver behind the dominance of new construction in the curtain wall market is the growing trend towards innovative and sustainable architecture. As cities expand and urbanization continues, there is a greater need for high-rise buildings, commercial complexes, and residential towers, which require curtain wall systems to provide both aesthetic appeal and performance. Curtain walls are an ideal solution for modern buildings as they offer a lightweight yet durable facade that can withstand environmental pressures while enhancing the building’s appearance. Moreover, the growing emphasis on energy efficiency in building construction has fueled demand for high-performance curtain wall systems, such as double-glazed and insulated walls, that help regulate temperature, reduce energy consumption, and improve overall sustainability. New construction projects are also more likely to integrate cutting-edge materials and technologies into their design, and curtain walls are at the forefront of this innovation. The integration of smart technologies, like electrochromic glass and automated shading systems, as well as the use of recycled or eco-friendly materials, has further solidified the position of curtain walls in new developments. Additionally, building owners and developers are increasingly seeking systems that meet modern environmental standards and provide long-term cost savings, making curtain walls an attractive choice for new construction projects. As a result, new construction remains a dominant force in the growth of the curtain wall market.

Unitized curtain walls are leading the curtain wall market due to their efficiency in installation, superior quality control, and ability to meet modern design demands for high-rise buildings and large-scale projects.

Unitized curtain wall systems are gaining dominance in the market because of their streamlined installation process and enhanced performance in terms of durability and energy efficiency. Unlike traditional stick-built systems, unitized curtain walls are pre-assembled in a factory setting, allowing for a higher degree of precision and quality control. This off-site manufacturing ensures that the components are constructed to meet exact specifications, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing the overall quality of the finished product. In addition to the improved quality, unitized systems offer significant time savings during installation, as the large panels are ready to be mounted directly onto the building structure, reducing the need for on-site assembly. This makes unitized systems ideal for high-rise and large-scale commercial buildings, where the need for speed and precision is critical. Furthermore, unitized curtain walls provide better performance in terms of weather resistance, thermal insulation, and noise reduction, which are important factors in urban environments. As sustainability becomes a growing focus in the construction industry, unitized systems are also valued for their ability to integrate energy-efficient features such as double-glazed panels and insulated frames. These systems contribute to a building’s energy performance, helping meet modern environmental standards and reducing operational costs over time. The combination of faster installation, reduced labor costs, and superior environmental performance has made unitized curtain walls the preferred choice in the curtain wall market, particularly for large-scale, high-rise construction projects.

The commercial sector is leading the curtain wall market due to its demand for aesthetically appealing, energy-efficient, and sustainable building solutions for high-rise offices, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments.

The commercial construction sector is driving the growth of the curtain wall market, largely because of the need for modern, visually striking facades that combine functionality with design. High-rise office buildings, corporate headquarters, and retail spaces all benefit from the use of curtain walls, which offer sleek, glass-fronted exteriors that allow natural light to permeate interior spaces. This aesthetic appeal is a significant factor for businesses looking to create impressive, attractive buildings that align with contemporary architectural trends. Beyond aesthetics, the commercial market’s demand for energy-efficient buildings has also contributed to the popularity of curtain walls, which can be designed to optimize thermal insulation, reduce energy consumption, and improve the overall energy performance of a building. This is particularly important as sustainability becomes a growing focus, with commercial developers and tenants seeking buildings that meet environmental standards such as LEED certification. Curtain walls can be integrated with energy-efficient glazing, thermal breaks, and other performance-enhancing materials, providing significant energy savings while still allowing for expansive views and natural light. Moreover, commercial buildings often require large-scale, durable, and high-performance building materials that can withstand the rigors of both extreme weather and heavy foot traffic. Curtain wall systems, with their modular design and robust construction, are ideal for these types of projects, offering strength, safety, and low maintenance. As commercial developers continue to seek innovative ways to meet the demands of modern architecture, the curtain wall market is expected to grow, with increased emphasis on both sustainability and design. The sector’s demand for high-performance, visually appealing, and energy-efficient facades has solidified curtain walls as the top choice for commercial building projects, making the commercial segment the leading driver in this market.

Glass is leading the curtain wall market due to its versatility, aesthetic appeal, and ability to provide natural light, energy efficiency, and modern architectural design elements.

Glass has become the dominant material in the curtain wall market because of its unique combination of functionality and aesthetics. In modern architecture, there is a strong emphasis on creating visually striking facades that allow for the maximum influx of natural light while offering an open and airy feel to the interior spaces. Glass curtain walls achieve this seamlessly, providing panoramic views and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the building. One of the key reasons glass is preferred in curtain wall systems is its ability to create a transparent and sleek façade that adds to the contemporary and elegant appearance of commercial and residential buildings. Additionally, glass can be manufactured in a variety of finishes, including clear, tinted, reflective, or frosted, allowing architects to tailor the design to meet specific aesthetic and functional requirements. Beyond its visual appeal, glass also plays a crucial role in energy efficiency. Modern glass curtain walls are designed with advanced glazing technology that helps regulate the temperature inside the building. For instance, insulated or low-emissivity (Low-E) glass coatings improve thermal insulation, reduce heat loss, and lower the energy consumption for heating or cooling, thereby making buildings more energy-efficient. As sustainability becomes increasingly important in the construction industry, energy-efficient glass systems have gained traction, helping buildings meet environmental standards and certification criteria, such as LEED. Furthermore, glass provides durability and longevity, with minimal maintenance required compared to other materials. It is resistant to corrosion, and its ability to reflect sunlight helps maintain the building's appearance over time. These attributes make glass an ideal choice for a range of applications, from high-rise office buildings and skyscrapers to residential complexes and institutional buildings. Its transparency and reflective properties also aid in maintaining occupant comfort by maximizing daylight and minimizing glare, which is an essential consideration in large-scale buildings. With its aesthetic qualities, sustainability advantages, and adaptability to diverse architectural designs, glass continues to dominate the curtain wall market, making it the leading material for modern and energy-efficient facades.

The Asia-Pacific region is leading the curtain wall market due to rapid urbanization, increased construction activities, and growing demand for modern, energy-efficient buildings.

Asia-Pacific is experiencing a construction boom driven by rapid urbanization, economic growth, and a rising demand for contemporary, high-rise buildings in countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea. As these economies continue to expand, there is a significant push for modern infrastructure, which includes skyscrapers, office complexes, residential towers, and mixed-use developments. Curtain walls, particularly glass-based systems, have become a go-to solution for creating visually striking facades that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In fast-growing urban centers, the demand for innovative architectural designs that maximize natural light, enhance energy efficiency, and offer an attractive exterior is fueling the need for advanced curtain wall systems. Additionally, Asia-Pacific's growing focus on sustainability and energy conservation is driving the adoption of energy-efficient building technologies, including high-performance glass and insulated curtain walls that improve a building's thermal insulation and reduce energy consumption. Countries in this region are also increasingly setting stricter regulations for energy-efficient buildings and carbon emissions, which further boosts the demand for curtain wall systems with better insulation properties. Moreover, with an ever-expanding middle class and a demand for luxury and premium living and working spaces, developers and architects in the Asia-Pacific region are opting for high-quality and aesthetically appealing materials such as glass, aluminum, and composite systems for curtain walls. The region’s strong manufacturing base, coupled with competitive pricing, makes it a hub for curtain wall production and innovation, contributing to a significant share of the global market. As more cities in Asia-Pacific continue to evolve into global financial and commercial hubs, the demand for advanced curtain wall systems in new and retrofitted buildings is expected to increase, solidifying the region’s leadership in the market. With major construction projects in cities like Shanghai, Tokyo, Mumbai, and Dubai, as well as growing investments in infrastructure development, Asia-Pacific is poised to maintain its dominance in the curtain wall market for the foreseeable future.

• In January 2023, AGC Inc. partnered with the Japanese construction company Shimizu Corporation to develop a new type of glass curtain wall that is resistant to earthquakes and typhoons.
• In February 2021, Vitro Architectural Glass launched Solarban R77 solar control, low-emissivity (Low-E) glass that combines a sharp, neutrally reflective silver-blue aesthetic along with the building-code-friendly solar performance.
• August 2021, Dynamic Glass acquired Colorado Window Systems (CWS), a prominent US-based supplier of glass, glazing, and metal panel services, for an undisclosed sum. This acquisition will help Dynamic Glass increase the variety of glass and glazing products it offers, with a particular emphasis on better service capabilities in Colorado. CWS is a sizable company that provides the greatest general contractors in Colorado with excellent glass and glazing services.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Curtain Walls Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Construction Type
• New Construction
• Refurbishment

By Walls System
• Unitized
• Stick-built
• Semi-Unitized

By Material
• Glass
• Metal
• Stone
• Composite

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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