Michael J. Louis, P.E.

The author is senior principal for Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. He is a professional engineer who specializes in waterproofing design of building-envelope systems, including foundations, wall systems, curtain walls, windows, glazing, skylights, and flat, steep, and low-slope roofing. He can be reached at MJLouis@sgh.com

Unitized Curtain Walls and Their Limitations

Unitized curtain walls have become the preferred method for enclosing buildings, as more building owners, architects and contractors see the benefits of this type of construction. Unitized systems allow buildings to be enclosed quickly, which can help to speed up the construction process leading…

Curtain wall problems

Third in a series Glass-and-metal curtain walls can provide an attractive, durable and cost-effective cladding solution, but in many buildings, they are plagued with problems ranging from air and water leakage to falling trim covers. The first two articles in this series—on Page 82 of April Glass…

Curtain-wall designs

Second in a series Glass-and-metal curtain walls can provide an attractive, durable and cost-effective cladding solution, but in many buildings, these wall systems are plagued with problems ranging from air and water leakage to falling trim covers. The first article on page 82 of April Glass…