Final answer:
Curtain walls are attached to the building's structural frame using anchors, framing systems, and brackets. They can contribute to vertical fire spread if not properly designed and maintained.
Step-by-step explanation:
Curtain walls are attached to the structural frame of a building through various methods such as anchors, framing systems, and brackets. These attachments are designed to provide structural support and create a secure connection between the curtain wall system and the building.
Curtain walls can contribute to vertical fire spread if they are not properly designed and maintained. The gaps between the curtain wall panels, known as joints, can allow fire, smoke, and hot gases to penetrate through the façade, potentially spreading the fire vertically. Firestops, fire-resistant materials, and proper sealing of joints are essential in preventing vertical fire spread in curtain wall systems.