What type of wall is used as a weather barrier in high-rise buildings?

A curtain wall is specifically designed as a non-structural exterior wall system that acts as a weather barrier in high-rise buildings. It is typically made from lightweight materials such as glass and metal, which allows it to provide an effective shield against wind, rain, and other weather elements while not supporting the building’s structure. Instead, the load from the building is carried by beams and columns, allowing the curtain wall to remain flexible and aesthetically pleasing.

The other wall types do not serve this particular function effectively. Veneer walls are primarily decorative and may not provide the same level of protection against the elements. Load-bearing walls are crucial structural components that support the building's weight but are not designed primarily for weather resistance. Partition walls are interior walls used to divide spaces within a structure, thereby having no significant role in acting as a weather barrier for high-rise buildings.