In terms of curtain wall installation, why is it important to use setting blocks?

Using setting blocks is crucial in curtain wall installation primarily because they serve to properly position the glass. When installing glazing systems, setting blocks create a stable base on which the glass is supported. Their correct placement ensures that the glass is not only correctly aligned but also allows for proper water drainage, structural integrity, and thermal expansion accommodation. This positioning is vital to the longevity of the installation and helps maintain the performance of the building envelope.

While sealing gaps, reducing glare, and enhancing aesthetic appeal are important aspects of facade design and installation, they are not the primary functions of setting blocks. Sealing gaps typically involves other materials like sealants, while glare reduction can be addressed through glass selection and treatments, not through setting blocks. Similarly, aesthetic enhancements are achieved through design considerations and selected materials rather than through the function of setting blocks themselves.