Read, apply, check
Read the section, trace the connections and distinguish a visible surface from its construction.
Choose the task that fits what you are trying to understand. Each resource includes an explanation, practical examples and references. For an exercise sheet, try the questions before opening the solutions.
A curtain wall commonly sits outside the floor-slab edges; a window wall commonly fills the space between slabs. Both enclose the building and transfer their own loads to its primary structure. The reliable comparison starts with a section and system details, because an all-glass appearance, unitized assembly or concealed floor edge does not settle the distinction.
Stick-built curtain walls are assembled from members and infill mainly on site. Unitized systems use larger modules assembled off site and delivered for installation, commonly with glazing already fitted. The distinction changes where work happens and which interfaces need attention. It does not decide the project’s total cost, performance or suitability by itself.
Rainscreen describes a layered rain-management arrangement; curtain wall describes an enclosure system and its relation to the primary structure. They can overlap. An original layer diagram and combination cases show why the backing, cavity, assembly method and visible finish should be recorded separately.
A mullion commonly forms a main vertical window division; a transom member forms a main horizontal division. A muntin divides panes within a sash and can run in either direction. Use the original elevations below to identify the part’s role, distinguish a transom member from a transom window, and handle differences in source vocabulary.
Start with the cut and its orientation, then follow the documented water-control layers to their next junction or exit. Keep surface shedding separate from drainage behind the cladding. At a window, floor line or base, stop where the route is not shown and find the detail that continues it. This original annotated section and worksheet help you record what the drawing establishes and what still needs clarification.