Thermal efficiency in glazed curtain wall systems With glazed façades dominating urban landscapes, the strides made to improve the energy efficiency of glass are well-documented and generally well-understood. However, much more quietly, the framing members of wall and window systems have also been re-engineered. The performance improvements in these less-discussed components are poised to add up to big gains in efficiency. |
A faster, simpler way to a Level 5 finish Drywall is often misperceived as a building material that does not demand the skillful manipulation of a traditional construction material. However, anyone who has worked with drywall knows the product is not so cooperative. |
Proving its Long-term Mettle: Longevity, whole-building LCAs, and stainless steel Whether the project is a new building or major renovation, sustainability is an increasingly important factor in decision-making. Whole-building life cycle assessment (LCA) makes it possible to look at all phases of a building, from material extraction through construction to decommissioning and, when possible, recycling into a ‘new’ useful material. |
Designing better commercial fenestration through thermal design Fenestration—such as windows, curtain walls, window walls, sloped glazing, storefronts, and doors—affects building energy use through four basic mechanisms: thermal heat transfer, solar heat gain, visible transmittance, and air leakage. Product designers, architects, and specifiers must reconcile the interplay of these factors to arrive at, or verify, optimal thermal performance. |
Steel curtain walls that get the curtain call Modern curtain wall systems require structural supports as strong as they are versatile to keep pace with today’s increasingly large free spans, challenging angles, and sophisticated glass-clad aesthetics. While steel curtain wall frames have long met strength criteria, they have only recently provided the necessary design flexibility. |
Channel high design: Part three Channel glass’ distinctive, self-supporting, U-shape makes it possible for design professionals to use glazing in new ways. The final part in this three-article series examines applications related to durability in the face of high winds, along with energy efficiency and colorfastness. |