Curtain walling is a discipline of construction that involves using non-structural walls to protect a building's interior. Curtain wallers / fixers may work permanently for a construction company, although will more commonly be employed on a short-term basis as projects require. As a result, trades recruitment agencies are often contacted by architect employers to supply curtain wallers for contract or temporary jobs.
A curtain wall can be made of multiple materials, however glass has become the most common infill (panel) type in the industry. These infills are placed within an aluminium frame and placed on the outside of a building to safeguard the inside from weather. These will typically cover multiple levels / floors, but won't be responsible for holding any load weight.
Curtain wallers will require architectural expertise and be expected to have an understanding of key processes such as stick systems, ladder systems and the rainscreen principle. These skills and knowledge can be acquired on the job, but the majority of professionals will have completed an NVQ Certificate in Curtain Wall Installation (QCF).
Due to the contract nature of the work, salaries for curtain or screen wallers are difficult to establish. Workers will commonly command an hourly / day rate or will agree a fee in relation to the duration of the project. Hourly pay will most frequently vary between £10-£15 however this is largely dependent on the size of the job.
If you're looking for work or in need of a curtain waller to add to your team, then browse the recruitment agencies below to find the right solutions for you.