What Are Glazing Systems? Types, Terminology, and How to Choose the Right Solution

Glass is one of the defining features of modern architecture, but the systems that support it are often misunderstood. Even though they describe different aspects of a building’s envelope, terms such as structural glass, structural glazing, and curtain wall are frequently used interchangeably, which can be confusing if you’re just beginning to explore these systems.

A glazing system is the combination of glass and the components that hold it in place, including the framing, attachments, seals, and support structure. Together, these parts create glass features like building facades, windows, skylights, canopies, and atriums.

Understanding the terminology is the first step in choosing the right glazing solution for your project. Whether you’re designing a new office tower, planning a renovation, or researching options during schematic design, knowing how glazing systems differ can help you make more informed decisions.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a glazing system is, clear up the confusion between structural glass and structural glazing, and introduce the most common architectural glazing systems used in commercial construction today.

What is a Glazing System?

A glazing system is the complete assembly of glass, framing, attachment methods, seals, and supporting components that form part of a building envelope. Together, these elements create everything from facades and skylights to atriums, canopies, and other forms of exterior glazing.

Beyond aesthetics, glazing systems play an important role in a building’s overall performance. The right system contributes to structural stability, weather protection, daylighting, thermal efficiency, and occupant comfort while helping architects achieve their design vision.

Today’s commercial glazing systems range from traditional framed assemblies to highly transparent, minimally supported designs. Selecting the right option depends on factors such as the project’s structural requirements, performance goals, budget, and desired appearance.

Structural Glass vs. Structural Glazing

One of the most common misconceptions in the industry is that structural glass and structural glazing mean the same thing. Although they’re related, they describe two different aspects of a building’s façade.

Structural glass refers to glass that functions as a load-bearing structural element. Rather than serving only as an infill material, the glass is engineered to resist and transfer loads. Glass fins, beams, floors, stairs, canopies, and walkways are all examples of structural glass applications.

Structural glazing, by contrast, describes the method used to secure glass to a building’s supporting structure. In a structural glazing system, the glass is attached so that the primary framing is concealed, creating the appearance of a continuous glass surface. Many structural glazing systems use high-strength structural silicone to bond the glass to the frame, while others incorporate concealed mechanical attachments depending on the system and performance requirements.

In simple terms:

• Structural glass describes what the glass does.
• Structural glazing describes how the glass is installed.

Some projects use one approach, while others incorporate both.

Types of Glazing Systems

The world of architectural glazing includes several system types, each designed for different architectural goals and performance requirements.

Structural glazing creates sleek facades by concealing the framing behind the glass. The result is a clean, contemporary appearance with expansive views and minimal visual interruptions. These systems are commonly specified for signature buildings where transparency and aesthetics are a priority.

Curtain wall systems are non-load-bearing exterior walls that hang from a building’s structural frame. They protect against wind and weather while allowing architects to create large glass facades without transferring building loads through the glass itself.

Storefront and window wall systems are often used in retail buildings, schools, healthcare facilities, and mid-rise commercial projects. While they may appear similar to curtain walls, they are designed for different structural conditions and are generally more economical for smaller applications.

Unitized systems consist of large, factory-assembled glazing panels that arrive on-site ready for installation. Because much of the fabrication occurs under controlled conditions, unitized systems can improve quality control, reduce installation time, and help keep large projects on schedule.

Point-supported or frameless glazing relies on specialized fittings rather than continuous framing to support the glass. The minimal hardware creates a highly transparent appearance that’s often used for atriums, entrances, feature walls, and other architectural focal points.

Specialty glazing systems are engineered to meet unique performance requirements. Depending on the application, these systems may provide fire resistance, blast mitigation, hurricane protection, enhanced acoustic performance, or other project-specific capabilities.

Many of these systems can be adapted for interior or exterior glazing applications, and the lines between architectural and commercial framing often overlap depending on the building’s design.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a glazing system?

A glazing system is the complete assembly of glass, framing, attachment components, seals, and supporting hardware that forms part of a building envelope or glazed structure.

What’s the difference between structural glass and structural glazing?

Structural glass is load-bearing glass used as part of the building’s structure. A structural glazing system refers to the attachment method used to secure glass to the supporting structure, typically with structural silicone.

What are the main types of glazing systems used in commercial buildings?

The most common commercial glazing systems include structural glazing, curtain walls, storefront systems, window walls, unitized systems, point-supported glazing, and specialty glazing systems.

Is a curtain wall a type of glazing system?

Yes. A curtain wall is one type of glazing system. It forms a non-load-bearing exterior facade that is attached to a building’s structural frame and is designed to resist wind, weather, and environmental loads.

What is a glazed structure?

A glazed structure is any building or architectural feature where glass makes up a significant portion of the enclosure, including facades, atriums, skylights, canopies, and enclosed walkways.

Choosing the Right Glazing Partner for Your Project

Choosing the right glazing system starts with understanding your options. Once you’ve identified the best fit for your project, partnering with an experienced design and engineering team, such as Novum Structures, can help ensure the system meets both your aesthetic vision and performance goals.

Check out Novum’s Glazing Systems page for more information. If you’re still in the early stages of design, Novum’s Designer Assist Tool can help you evaluate options before finalizing specifications.