Technoform Bautec North America, Inc., contributes to the updated appearance and enhanced performance of historic Houghton Academy in Buffalo, N.Y. Along with refreshed façade, the elementary school’s modern windows feature Technoform Bautec’s polyamide thermal barrier for energy efficiency, structural performance and long-term durability.

Glazing contractor T.G.R. Enterprises replaced 125 of the building’s outdated windows with Wausau Window and Wall Systems’ high-performance units. These windows were finished by Linetec and customized to match the elementary school’s architectural aesthetic using a Sandstone color paint on the exterior and a Dark Bronze anodize on the interior.

Constructed in 1924, Buffalo Public School #69 Houghton Academy was designed by the Associated Buffalo Architects Inc. The U-shaped floor plan surrounds a courtyard in the rear and a Classic Revival style entrance in the front. The brick and stone structure is punctuated with large window bays. As time passed, the windows were replaced without preserving the architectural integrity. This resulted in inconsistent window types, trim and colors.

“Choosing different color schemes and finish types for the interior and exterior of a high-performance aluminum window system can be achieved within budget and on accelerated timelines,” says Chad Ricker with Technoform Bautec’s market team. “Because two different finishing types were used on Houghton Academy windows — paint and anodize, any other thermal barrier method would not have been an option for this project.”

To ensure a successful result, the glazing team relied on Wausau’s 310i Series single-hung and 4250i-XLT INvent™ Series project-out windows. Both are manufactured using Technoform Bautec’s polyamide thermal barriers, known generically as “thermal strip.”

For two-color frame finishing using paint at the interior and exterior, Linetec estimates that Technoform Bautec’s thermal strip system painted assemblies are 400% less expensive than other thermal barrier methods that require time-consuming masking.

In addition to cost savings, Houghton Academy’s windows’ Sandstone paint color matches the stonework surrounding them. Christine Hentz, architect with the Buffalo Board of Education, explains, “I selected a color that matched the limestone. On the interior, we maintained the original wood frame, trim and sills. The woodwork is finished in this brownish olive color that is very specific to our schools. It’s practically impossible to match, so we went with a Dark Bronze on the windows’ interior finish that looks nice.”

Wausau’s custom-contoured panning profile helped replicate the look of the windows’ original profile. The majority of windows also feature glazed-in grid muntins with beveled profiles to accentuate the classic appearance. Linetec painted the panning, muntins and windows’ exteriors in the Sandstone color using a 70% Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) two-coat, in-house blend.

“Seventy percent PVDF coatings offer the ultimate protection in building performance. These are some of the most durable coatings available. Their long lifecycle reduces the need for maintenance and replacement and minimizes the associated time, cost and materials,” says Linetec’s senior marketing specialist, Tammy Schroeder, LEED® Green Associate.

She continues, “The Dark Bronze not only is a different color, but also an entirely different finish process. Because it is an integral part of the substrate, anodize highlights aluminum’s natural beauty and metallic appearance. The anodic coating results in a hard, durable substance providing excellent wear and abrasion resistance with minimal maintenance.”

Because interior and exterior components can be finished at Linetec before assembly of the thermal strip system, dual-color designs, or even dual-finishes, can be achieved easily and efficiently. With other thermal improvement systems, dual-color, or “two-tone,” finishing involves painting one side of the material one color; then masking it off and painting the other side a different color.

“When the building design calls for different interior and exterior finishes, thermal strip becomes the most economical option,” says Schroeder. “When a two-tone anodize is specified – or a paint and anodize interior/exterior, like this project – it is practically impossible to accomplish with anything other than thermal strip.”

Technoform Bautec’s polyamide composition “creates a highly effective thermal barrier that helps insulate approximately 500 times better than aluminum,” explains Phil Effler, part of Technoform Bautec’s north-central sales and market team. “Because it expands and contracts at a rate similar to aluminum, Technoform Bautec’s system delivers long-term durability and water-tightness in a properly assembled profile. It also resists heat distortion and withstands most chemicals used in the construction industry.”

He continues, “Using Technoform Bautec thermal strip for aluminum separation lowers conductivity, thereby reducing the windows’ thermal transmittance (U-Factor), while increasing condensation resistance. Low U-Factors allow broad expanses of vision glass to meet Model Energy Codes.” Enhancing thermal performance for Houghton Academy, the windows are factory-glazed at Wausau’s manufacturing center using Viracon‘s VE1-85 insulating glass.

Simulating the look of double-hung windows, Wausau’s 4250i-XLT INvent project-out windows are easier to operate and have no counter-balancing mechanisms to maintain or replace. “When you have a double-hung with full divided lites and insulated glass in these large sizes, they tend to be very, very heavy. Wausau offered a unit that appears to be a double-hung, but is fixed on top and swings out on the bottom,” says Hentz. “Now, teachers can easily open and close the windows.” Taking effortless operation to the next level, Wausau also prepared the gymnasium’s replacement clerestory windows for motorized operation.

In November 2012, T.G.R. Enterprises completed the three-month window replacement project. Working after school hours to avoid disrupting students and faculty, the team achieved a unified look with improved performance.

Today, Buffalo Public School #69 Houghton Academy serves more than 500 pre-kindergarten through 8th grade students, faculty and staff. It is one of 65 facilities in a district of 37,000 students.

“Ultimately no one can deny the success of this reconstruction and historic preservation program. The district realizes that strong, successful schools are vital for the city to thrive. In addition, these facilities are the focal points within their neighborhoods and can be the catalyst for community redevelopment,” noted Buffalo Public School’s director of facilities, planning, design and construction, Paul McDonnell, AIA, in a column for Buffalo Rising.

McDonnell also is former president of the Buffalo/Western New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), president of the Campaign for Greater Buffalo History, Architecture and Culture and chairperson of the Buffalo Preservation Board. He concluded, “Buffalo has been able to maintain the integrity of its architecturally significant schools while creating learning environments that are a match to any other in New York State.”

**

Buffalo Public School #69 Houghton Academy, 1725 Clinton St. Buffalo, N.Y.  14206; http://www.buffaloschools.org/HoughtonAcademy.cfm
* Owner: Buffalo Public Schools; Buffalo, N.Y.; http://www.buffaloschools.org/
* Architect: Buffalo Board of Education; Buffalo, N.Y.; http://www.buffaloschools.org/district.cfm?subpage=73
* General and glazing contractor: T.G.R. Enterprises, Inc.; Buffalo, N.Y.
* Glazing systems – manufacturer: Wausau Window and Wall Systems; Wausau, Wis.; http://www.wausauwindow.com
* Glazing systems – glass fabricator: Viracon, Inc.; Owatonna, Minn.; http://www.viracon.com/
* Glazing systems – finisher: Linetec, Wausau, Wis.; http://www.linetec.com
* Glazing systems – thermal barrier system: Technoform Bautec North America Inc.; Twinsburg, Ohio; http://www.technoform-bautec.us
* Photos by: Orchard Photography

###

Filed under: AIA, CLIENT NEWS, Linetec, Products, Projects, Technoform Bautec, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on Client News: Technoform Bautec’s thermal barrier system helps Houghton Academy’s new windows match historic aesthetic

Mark Silverberg, president of Technoform North America, Inc., will present at upcoming glazing industry events for the National Glass Association (NGA) and Glass Association of North America (GANA). He shares his knowledge of commercial and residential glazing and insulating glass products, and his insights on economic indicators and industry trends for the future.

“Both presentations offer macro-economic information to help architects, glazing contractors, manufacturers and fenestration industry leaders with future business decision-making and strategic planning,” says Silverberg.

Aug. 20, 7-8:15 p.m., “Financial Forecasting” will be presented as part of NGA’s Glass Management Institute’s webinar program. Silverberg reviews studies and forecasting tools to help businesses budget successfully for the future. Registration information is available at https://www.glass.org/gmi.html.

Sept. 19, 12-1 p.m., “Insights into the Glass and Glazing Industry: Manufacturers Forecast Panel” will be presented during GANA Fall Conference’s Management Day at Omni Charlotte in Charlotte, N.C. Silverberg, who serves as GANA’s Energy Division vice chair, is joined by Russ Huffer, lead director of Hutchinson Technology Inc.; Primary Glass Manufacturers Council; and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). Registration information is available at http://www.glasswebsite.com/events/fallconference/.

Technoform also offers “The Future of High Performance Fenestration,” a new, free, online course available through AECdaily.com. Approved through the American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System (AIA CES), this one-hour program provides an overview of fenestration systems that incorporate thermally broken frames, enhanced glass coatings and high-performance warm edge spacers, as well as a discussion on energy, codes/regulations and the impact of high-performance fenestration on sustainability.

###

Filed under: ASSOCIATION NEWS, CLIENT NEWS, Events, GANA, Technoform Bautec, Technoform Glass Insulation, Tradeshow Thoughts | Comments Off on Client News: Technoform shares industry insights with NGA and GANA; invites architects, contractors, manufacturers to attend

Opened in April 2013, the new Port of Entry in Van Buren, Maine, relies on Wausau Window and Wall Systems’ curtainwall to help achieve the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s security requirements, as well as to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) LEED® Gold criteria. Another recent Port of Entry facility in Warroad, Minnesota, was opened in February 2010 and achieved LEED Gold certification. Julie Snow Architects, Inc. of Minnesota designed both of these award-winning border patrol stations using Wausau’s SuperWall™ system.

Helping meet the facilities’ multiple performance goals, SuperWall can achieve NFRC U-factors as low as 0.35 BTU/hr-sqft-ºF with Frame Condensation Resistance Factor (CRFf) of 69 and higher. Wausau’s extruded aluminum frames contain recycled content averaging 70% or greater. For both of these land ports of entry, Linetec finished the majority of the aluminum in a VOC-free, black anodize for easy maintenance and durability.

There are 167 land ports of entry in the U.S., two-thirds of which are owned or leased by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) owns or leases the remaining third. CBP is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible for the management, control and protection of the nation’s borders at and between the official ports of entry. In addition, the Warroad and Van Buren ports of entry are coordinated with the Canada Border Services Agency.

CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country, while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws. CBP’s deputy commissioner, David V. Aguilar, said, “Many (CBP employees) have told me that (they) draw great strength and determination from the events of 9-11. This is how it should be, because our best response to terrorism is to come back stronger and better. And I believe the men and women of CBP are helping the nation do just that by securing our borders, by welcoming an unfettered flow of international visitors to our shores each day, and by helping transform the world of international commerce.”

Van Buren Port of Entry, Maine

Funded under the federal stimulus bill, known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Van Buren’s project budget totaled $45,127,000. Along with Julie Snow Architects, the design-build construction project team participants were Robert Siegel Architects and J & J Contractors, plus construction manager Coast & Harbor Associates and glazing contractor Oakes & Parkhurst Glass (O&P Glass).

The new port of entry broke ground in June 2011 on Bridge Street, just off Main Street. It replaces the previous Bridge Street location, built in the 1960s and damaged in a 2008 flood. Situated at the “Crown of Maine,” the state’s northernmost station encompasses 46,516 square feet and is responsible for 160 miles of international border with the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Quebec. Approximately 52 miles are land boundary and 110.6 miles are water boundary.

“The St. John River Valley is profoundly influenced by its roots in Acadian culture, a heritage visible in the original settlement of long narrow plots oriented toward the river,” stated Julie Snow Architects’ principal, Matthew Kreilich, AIA, LEED AP. “Forests still cover much of the area and provide another layer to the genesis of the design. As the repetition of trees in a forest provides camouflage, the building uses a patterned repetition of joints, columns and mullions to provide the officers with concealment and direct visual site surveillance. To provide maximum visual surveillance, the main work areas are largely clad in glass. A silk-screened pattern on the glass provides both camouflage and glare protection.”

Wausau’s customized 8750SG Series curtainwall was engineered and fabricated as a four-sided structural factory-glazed framing system. “Factory-glazed units save time and costs in the field, which were especially important for the logistical challenges of this remote location in northern Maine,” says Wausau’s senior estimator, Todd Sackmann.

He explains, “As the curtainwall units are pre-glazed under controlled conditions at our LEED Silver-certified manufacturing center, this provides a higher level of quality control than those done in the field and ensures the units meet the performance requirements. Field labor is used more efficiently, equipment set-up at the job site is substantially decreased, travel and housing costs are reduced, and installation goes much quicker.”

Sackmann continues, “We adapted the curtainwall’s framing system to smoothly transition from Viracon’s 1-inch IGUs (insulating glass units) to 2-inch ballistic glass-clad polycarbonate IGUs. The curtainwall system maintains a flush exterior plane and the intended aesthetic. For this cold climate application, energy efficiency is enhanced with a 90% argon fill in IGUs.”

Along with balancing security and transparency, the project needed to deliver a durable structure with a 100-year lifespan and also comply with the U.S. Energy Independence Act. CBP and the GSA partnered “with local officials to design a new port that will use modern technology to enhance border security, speed the flow of commerce and reduce our reliance on foreign energy,” said GSA’s regional administrator, Bob Zarnetske. “For GSA, this project is about supporting CBP’s critical mission, creating jobs and greening the federal government’s building inventory.”

Registered with the USGBC for LEED Gold certification, Van Buren’s innovative and sustainable design features sought a projected a 48% reduction in energy costs and can accommodate eventual net-zero energy strategies. Kreilich added, “Located on a remote site, proven, easily maintained systems were critical to the port’s success. Passive strategies included natural ventilation, daylight harvesting and water-conserving fixtures, and low-VOC materials.”

Beyond the curtainwall system’s high thermal performance, other energy-efficient building features include:
* Geothermal heating and cooling
* Biodiesel boilers
* Solar hot water
* Zoned lighting with LED fixtures and occupancy sensors

The Van Buren project was honored as a winner from the earliest stages. In 2010, the GSA’s Design Awards recognized the concept design. In 2011, Architect magazine selected it for the Progressive Architecture awards. Also in 2011, the Swiss-based Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction presented Julie Snow Architects with a Bronze Award. The third annual International Holcim Awards jury commended the design for “successfully applying state-of-the-art features of sustainability in a government project with its regulatory implications. The design is dignified, simple and elegant.”

Warroad Point of Entry, Minnesota

Minnesota’s Warroad port of entry also has earned its accolades including receiving 2008 and 2010 GSA Design Awards, the 2010 Architect Move Award, the 2010 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Minnesota Honor Award, and the 2011 AIA Institute Honor Award. Jurors of the AIA Institute Honor Awards commented:
* “It is in a sense a continuation of the regional vocabulary – siding, wood, appropriate for its surrounds – integration of the landscape and public art – with the architecture nicely done.”
* “The building comes out of its function – the conflict between openness and security is pulled off well.”
* “One of the most elegant premeditated pieces of architecture around, it feels civic and that it belongs.”

The Warroad station’s 40,108-square-foot facility contains three, separate enclosed areas linked together with canopies. According to Julie Snow Architects, “The main building houses the officer work area and holding cells, the secondary building houses the vehicular inspection garages, laboratory space and firing range, and the commercial building is used for unloading and inspecting commercial vehicles. The port seamlessly integrates the latest technologies for securing the border into the facility and meets the demands of an energy efficient and sustainable building.”

Contributing to these requirements, Wausau’s high-performance SuperWall curtainwall was manufactured with recycled aluminum framing of 6.25- and 7.25-inch depths. Structural-glazed 90-degree outside corners also were provided. SuperWall’s pressure plate system simplifies field glazing and its screw-spline construction incorporates 3/8-inch thermal separation to withstand northern Minnesota’s bitter cold winter temperatures.

W.L. Hall Company fabricated the SuperWall system’s stock lengths into ladder frames and shipped them to the job site for Anderson Glass Company’s glazing contractor team. Bullet-resistant glazing was provided by U.S. Bullet Proofing and field-glazed on location.

The Warroad station originally opened in the 1920s. It was replaced in 1962 when staffing and security considerations were much less than today’s requirements. Construction on the current facility began in May 2008. It was completed in February 2010 and reopened half mile south of the former port of entry on Minnesota State highway 313. Beyond the building high-performance envelope, improvements include state-of-the-art communications, enhanced security, an indoor firearms range and radiation portal monitors.

“Border security has changed and our Port of Entry operations have been transformed accordingly,” said Warroad’s port director, Brian King. “Increased security requirements, staff and traffic have brought a need for more space to operate our 24-hour operation… to better secure this border crossing and… provide better service to the traveling public. It (offers) our officers a much more secure environment in which to conduct inspections in a more efficient and professional manner.”

Warroad’s area of operations contains an anomaly of land that is located above the 49th parallel of the Canada/United States border, and serves the water-crossing of the Lake of the Woods. It covers the northwestern portion of the state of Minnesota that includes approximately 9,234 square miles. Approximately 144 miles of international border separates the station from the provinces of Manitoba and Ontario.

**
U.S. Ports of Entry

9 Main Street, P.O. Box 146, Van Buren, ME  04785
* Owner: U.S. General Services Administration, Land Port of Entry Division; http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/101744
* Concept architect: Julie Snow Architects, Inc.; Minneapolis; http://www.juliesnowarchitects.com
* Design-builders:
– J & J Contractors, Inc.; Lowell, Mass.; http://www.jjcontractor.com
– Robert Siegel Architects; New York; http://robertsiegelarchitects.com
* Construction manager: Coast & Harbor Associates, Inc.; Lynnfield, Mass.; http://www.coastandharbor.com
* Glazing contractor: Oakes & Parkhurst Glass; Manchester, Maine; http://www.augustamaineglass.com
* Glazing systems – manufacturer:  Wausau Window and Wall Systems; Wausau, Wis.; http://www.wausauwindow.com
* Glazing systems – glass assemblies:  Viracon, Inc.; Owatonna, Minn.; http://www.viracon.com
* Glazing systems – finisher:  Linetec, Wausau, Wis.; http://www.linetec.com
* Photographer: Paul Crosby

502 State Avenue South, Highway 11, P.O. Box 24, Warroad, MN  56763
* Owner: U.S. General Services Administration, Land Port of Entry Division; http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/101744
* Architect: Julie Snow Architects, Inc.; Minneapolis; http://www.juliesnowarchitects.com
* Construction manager: Kraus-Anderson Construction Company; Minneapolis; http://www.krausanderson.com
* Glazing contractor: Anderson Glass Company, Inc.; Grand Rapids, Minn.; http://www.andersonglassco.com
* Glazing systems – manufacturer:  Wausau Window and Wall Systems; Wausau, Wis.; http://www.wausauwindow.com
* Glazing systems – fabricator: W.L. Hall Company; Hopkins, Minn.; http://www.wlhall.com
* Glazing systems – glass assemblies:  United States Bullet Proofing; Upper Marlboro, Md.; http://www.usbulletproofing.com
* Glazing systems – finisher:  Linetec, Wausau, Wis.; http://www.linetec.com
* Photographer: Paul Crosby

###

Filed under: AIA, Buildings + Infrastructure, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Linetec, Projects, USGBC, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on Client News: Two U.S.-Canadian border stations meet LEED criteria, security needs with SuperWall by Wausau

Apogee Wausau Group, Inc., doing business as Wausau Window and Wall Systems, has acquired the assets of Benchmark Sales Agency, Inc., doing business as Custom Window Company, Inc., to expand Wausau’s product offering and U.S. geographic reach. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.

Privately held, Custom Window was founded in 1981 in Englewood, Colo. It has grown to become a leading U.S. manufacturer of historically accurate, aluminum window products that account for annual revenues of approximately $10 million; it has more than 100 employees.

Wausau Window and Wall Systems, was founded in 1956 in Wausau, Wis. Wausau engineers and fabricates high-performance window and curtainwall systems for commercial buildings with a focus on the education, health care and government markets, including historic renovation applications.

Wausau is one of the architectural businesses of Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (Nasdaq:APOG), a public company that provides distinctive solutions for enclosing commercial buildings and framing art. As part of Apogee Enterprises, Wausau enjoys a solid history of financial strength, positive growth, safety, corporate citizenship and industry leadership.

“Wausau’s purchase of Custom Window supports Apogee’s strategy to grow our architectural framing systems segment through geographic expansion, new products and domestic acquisition. It presents an opportunity to better serve customers and prospects in the Western U.S. and the historical renovation market throughout the country,” said Joseph F. Puishys, Apogee CEO.

Wausau president Jim Waldron agreed, “We look forward to adding Custom Window’s industry knowledge, unique product line and regional presence to Wausau’s breadth of quality products. All of Wausau’s product offering is supported with our high level of customer service, experienced engineering and design teams, dependable schedules, on-time shipping and industry-leading warranties.”

The acquisition of Custom Window further enhances Wausau’s customer relationships across the West with improved logistics and reduced freight costs. Custom Window’s unique product offering includes:
* Regionally appropriate, projected windows for the competitive k-12 school market and low-rise office applications;
* Patented, self-balancing double-hung windows designed for occupants to enjoy both large openings and easy operation; and
* Historically accurate window systems with true divided lite muntins, addressing stringent aesthetic requirements for historic preservation projects.

Waldron emphasized that “Wausau and Custom Window share many similarities that contribute to a smooth integration: We both manufacture high-quality products that blend aesthetics and performance for lasting value. We invest in industry-leading best practices, improvements and innovations. We believe in maintaining close, collaborative relationships with architects, building owners and contractors. We honor our commitments to employees, suppliers and customers.”

###

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on Client News: Wausau acquires Custom Window in Colorado, expands product offering for historic renovation market

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) will host an online contest on both Twitter and LinkedIn every Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. Eastern from Aug. 7 through Sept. 4. The contest will feature quiz questions from AAMA’s FenestrationMasters™ program — the industry resource for comprehensive professional education and certification.

Each Wednesday, one quiz question will be asked on AAMA’s Twitter account and a different quiz question will be posted in AAMA’s LinkedIn group. The first five respondents with the correct answer will receive a 5 percent discount each week for up to 25 percent off FenestrationMasters courses and exams. To participate in the online contest, follow AAMA on Twitter or search for the contest hashtag, #RUsmarter. Also, join the association’s LinkedIn group.

Additionally, each day of GlassBuild America (Sept. 10-12) at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in booth #1216, AAMA will be hosting the game show, “Are You Smarter Than a FenestrationMaster™,” where participants will be awarded a 5 percent discount on FenestrationMasters courses and exams for each quiz question they answer correctly. Participants have the chance to win a 25 percent discount during GlassBuild.

By competing in both the online contest and at GlassBuild, participants could earn up to a 50 percent discount toward courses and exams.

Online Contest/Game Show Terms
Discounts apply only to FenestrationMaster or FenestrationAssociate™ courses and exams.
* Discounts cannot be applied to previous orders.
* Discounts may be transferred to another individual within the same company as the winner.
* During the online contest, an individual may only win on one social media platform (Twitter or LinkedIn) each week for a maximum online discount of 25 percent.
* Redemption of discounted courses and exams must be handled through AAMA staff by contacting FenestrationMasters@aamanet.org.

About FenestrationMasters
FenestrationMasters was developed to help companies differentiate their business and increase their credibility by offering their customers the benefit of employees who have pursued a well-rounded education in the fenestration industry.

“FenestrationMasters is truly unique in that it is the only publicly available professional education and certification program concentrated on the fenestration industry. Due to AAMA’s material and product neutrality, as well as our long history of technical expertise, students will learn from an unbiased, industry-leading source,” says Angela Dickson, AAMA’s marketing manager.

There are two different credentials available through the program, both requiring successful completion of the applicable coursework and the certification exam: FenestrationMaster and FenestrationAssociate. There are no prerequisites to qualify for the FenestrationAssociate (entry-level) certification. To qualify for the FenestrationMaster (advanced-level) certification, one of the following prerequisites must be met:
* Four-year degree in engineering, architecture or applied sciences and four years fenestration product-related experience
* Six years fenestration product-related experience

For a full course listing, www.aamanet.org/fenestrationmasters.

For more information about Are You Smarter Than a FenestrationMaster?, www.aamanet.org/RUsmarter. More information about AAMA and its activities can be found via the AAMA Media Relations page or on the AAMA website, www.aamanet.org.

###

Filed under: AAMA, ASSOCIATION NEWS, Events, Products, Tradeshow Thoughts | Comments Off on Association News: AAMA’s “Are You Smarter Than a FenestrationMaster” contest offers chance to win 50% off courses, exams

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) released AAMA 912-13, Voluntary Specification for Non-Residential Fenestration Building Information Modeling (BIM), which identifies and outlines minimum requirements for two widely used model types — Design intent (DI) models and Project execution and coordination (PEC) models — and is intended to be referenced in other industry standards, contract documents, proposals and marketing materials.

“As the commercial construction industry continues development and optimization of integrated workflow for the use of such modeling, the need for standardization and quality assurance in product models for windows, curtain wall, storefront and skylights has become apparent. With this in mind, AAMA’s BIM Task Group developed AAMA 912-13,” says Dan Luoma (Luoma Contract Inc.), chair of AAMA’s BIM Task Group. “This specification should provide a more streamline BIM process for the fenestration industry.”

According to AAMA 912-13, DI models are fenestration BIM models of “catalog” products of standard size and configuration that are often made available through manufacturers’ websites or industry warehouses/library sites. PEC models are project-specific fenestration BIM models that are provided at pre-defined milestones in the project execution process for insertion into the overall project BIM model.

AAMA 912 references AAMA 507-12, Standard Practice for Determining the Thermal Performance Characteristics of Fenestration Systems Installed in Commercial Buildings.

AAMA 912-13, along with other AAMA publications, may be purchased from AAMA’s Publication store.

###

Filed under: AAMA, ASSOCIATION NEWS, Buildings + Infrastructure, Products | Comments Off on Association News: AAMA streamlines BIM process for fenestration industry with new specification

Showcasing the supernatural potential of Curious Metallics and Translucents, Curious About Print: Conjure is the third in a series of inspirational and educational guidebooks. It is available by visiting appletoncoated.com.

The book features Curious Metallics and Translucents. It welcomes readers to a place called “Curious Collection,” where paper embodies the power to change minds with a touch and surpasses assumptions about paper-as-normal.

“Curious Metallics and Translucents are great any time that shimmering color, shine, translucency and tactility are essential,” says Ferkó X. Goldinger, marketing manager. “These papers are ideal for brochures, prestigious invitations, flysheets, luxury packaging, high-end shopping bags, business cards, notebooks and envelopes. Curious Collection can summon the senses and unveil 10,000 possibilities with unexpected rewards.”

Demonstrating the capabilities and performance, the guide is printed on Curious Metallics Chocolate 111-pound cover, Curious Translucents Clear 36-pound text and Curious Metallics Poison Ivory 89-pound cover using both traditional offset and UV offset. The magic of these papers is explored with varnishes, foils and embossing.

In addition to Curious Metallics and Translucents, the Curious Collection presents a full offering with SKIN Curious, Curious Touch, Curious Particles, Curious Cosmic and the newest Curious Matter, to complement Metallics and Translucents.

Supporting environmental goals, Curious Metallics are made with mineral pigments, with no heavy metals, and its most popular colors are available in 100% post-consumer waste. Curious Translucents all-natural papers are made from 100% pure cellulose fiber, without the use of translucentising chemicals. Both papers are fully recyclable.

Green Power is a standard feature for the entire Curious Collection. This means that for all the grades, 100% of the electricity used to manufacture these products is matched with renewable energy credits from Green-e® certified energy sources, primarily in the form of wind. The entire Curious Collection is also Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC®) certified and manufactured in ISO 14001 facilities.

**

Key Credits
Title: “Curious About Print: Conjure”
Company: Appleton Coated LLC, Combined Locks, Wis.
Paper: Curious Metallics Chocolate 111-pound cover, Curious Translucents Clear 36-pound text and Curious Metallics Poison Ivory 89-pound cover
Printing: UV offset, traditional offset with various inks and finishing techniques
Writing and Design: Planet Propaganda, Madison, Wisconsin

###

Filed under: Appleton Coated, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Products, Type-Paper-Print | Comments Off on Client news: Curious About Print conjures the power of Metallics and Translucents

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has released an updated standard that establishes minimum performance requirements for self adhering flashing surrounding exterior wall fenestration products. AAMA 711-13, Voluntary Specification for Self Adhering Flashing Used for Installation of Exterior Wall Fenestration Products also provides a method to determine the minimum width of the flashing products and to evaluate the influence of environmental factors on the installation of self adhering flashing products applied under typical field conditions.

“AAMA 711 is the only document dedicated to setting holistic material standards for self adhering flashing used around windows and doors,” says Jim Katsaros (DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions), vice chair of AAMA’s Flashing Task Group. “Using flashing that meets this specification ensures that the flashing will have sufficient peel adhesion, nail sealability and durability through the anticipated exposure. The value of this specification is recognized by the ICC Residential Code, as it is referenced in IRC Section R708.3, stating that self adhered membranes used as flashing shall comply with AAMA 711.”

Updated from the 2007 version, “the most significant change made to AAMA 711 was the addition of a modified version of ASTM G155 Xenon Arc Test as an alternative to ASTM G154 for accelerated weatherability testing,” says Kim Flanary (Milgard Manufacturing, Inc.), chair of AAMA’s Flashing Task Group. “AAMA 711 was re-opened in September of 2011 to add an option to test 4-inch-wide specimens in Section 5.3, make general editorial changes in line with AAMA 712 and to review the need to add a Flashing Sealant Compatibility section.”

AAMA 711 references important industry documents which include:
* AAMA 800-10, Voluntary Specifications and Test Methods for Sealants
* ASTM C734-06(2012), Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility of Latex Sealants After Artificial Weathering
* ASTM C765-97(2011), Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility of Preformed Tape Sealants
* ASTM D3330/3330M-04(2010), Standard Test Method for Peel Adhesion of Pressure-Sensitive Tape
* ASTM E331-00(2009), Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
* ASTM E631-06, Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
* ASTM E2112-07, Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights
* ASTM G155-05a, Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials

“I wish to thank all of the [Flashing] Task Group members for their hard work in updating and publishing this important standard,” says Flanary.

AAMA 711-13, along with other AAMA publications, may be purchased from AAMA’s Publication store.

###

Filed under: AAMA, ASSOCIATION NEWS, Homes + Neighborhoods, Products | Comments Off on Association News: AAMA releases specification for self adhering flashing for exterior wall fenestration installation

Bill Blazek joins the market team at Technoform Bautec North America, Inc. He will provide manufacturers of aluminum windows, doors and façades with high-precision polyamide insulation profiles that deliver energy efficiency, structural performance and long-term durability.

For the past two decades, Blazek owned Architectural Construction Products in Cleveland where he worked as an independent manufacturer’s representative promoting a variety of quality glass and architectural aluminum products. He worked closely with many companies to develop strong partnerships with architects, contractors and other members of the commercial building team.

Prior to starting his own business, Blazek served as a regional sales manager and consultant at Securitylink Corporation in Wickliffe, Ohio. He developed several national and Fortune 500 accounts while recruiting, training and motivating the sales team.

Blazek combined a course of study in business and engineering to earn both a bachelor’s and an associate’s degree from the University of Toledo. He has continued his education by completing several management and sales training programs. Sharing his knowledge and gaining new insight, he was a long time member the Ohio Glass Association, where he previously served as a member of the board of directors.

During his time with the University of Toledo, Blazek played varsity football with the Toledo Rockets and remains active with the Varsity “T” Club. He also volunteers as a scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America and coaches youth football.

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, People, Technoform Bautec | Comments Off on Client News: Technoform Bautec adds Bill Blazek to its market team

Helping save time and generate accurate specifications, Chicago Metallic enhances its informational resources with ARCAT® SpecWizard® tool to guide designers, specifiers and other users through an online selection and configuration process. Based on the input provided for the project, this convenient tool assembles a specification using the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) three-part format and prepares it for download.

ARCAT reports more than 2.8 million annual visitors to its online database of more than 11,500 building products and the largest library of CSI three-part proprietary specifications. These resources are available on-demand and no cost to the architectural community.

“This quick and easy tool is available 24/7/365 to automatically generate ceiling system specifications for design professionals’ unique projects and requirements. It also links visitors with their local sales representatives in cases where they need a more personalized response,” says Megan Nichols, Chicago Metallic’s director of marketing and service.

In addition to the ARCAT SpecWizard, Chicago Metallic helps connect customers to sales representatives, e-catalogs and other information. The company’s products also are listed with:
* AECinfo online
* MasterSpec® directory
* McGraw-Hill® Sweets™ product resource center

Chicago Metallic’s website offers the most comprehensive source for downloadable specifications, submittal materials, MSDS sheets, LEED® and Made in the U.S.A. letters, CAD drawings, Google™ SketchUp and Revit® 3-D models, installation instructions, warranties and more.

###

Filed under: Chicago Metallic, CLIENT NEWS, CSI, Products | Comments Off on Client News: Chicago Metallic saves time writing ceiling specifications with ARCAT SpecWizard