Kolbe adds Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide Doors’ Revit models to growing library

Kolbe has added its Ultra TerraSpan® Lift and Slide doors‘ Revit® models to its collection of 1,000+ two- and three-dimensional window and door models.

The new 3-D model illustrates a four-panel stacking door with flush-mount sill, one of Kolbe’s most popular TerraSpan product choices. Promoting a visual and physical connection with the surrounding environment, Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors are ideally suited to capture the views, natural light, fresh air and outdoor experience for hotel guests, restaurant patrons, storefront shoppers and homeowners. The doors’ digital models and environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Rating System£.

Kolbe’s easy-to-use models can be managed and manipulated to link with external data sources allowing users to instantly compile quantity takeoffs. Users customize the width, height, panel width, wall offset and other features of these Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide door Revit models. Along with these models and its Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, Kolbe provides design professionals with free webinars on effectively using its Revit® and Google™ SketchUp models to expedite architectural project details.

The new Revit models for Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors are located in:
Kolbe’s website
Google 3D Warehouse
RevitCity

Ultra TerraSpan doors’ expansive entryways can incorporate up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height with a choice of screens, hardware and other accessories. Balancing daylighting and energy efficiency, the doors are available in climate-appropriate, high-performance glass options. A broad palette of environmentally-friendly finishes protect the exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably-harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

To learn more about Kolbe’s Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors, upcoming webinars or to request personalized assistance with Kolbe’s BIM tools and 3-D models, please e-mail Laura Smith, Kolbe’s architectural CAD coordinator at architects@kolbe-kolbe.com.

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Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, Homes + Neighborhoods, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Products | Comments Off on 11.12.10 Client News

LEED-certified McCormick Place features Wausau’s curtainwall to maximize daylighting, energy efficiency, long-term performance

* Wausau will be exhibiting at Greenbuild #L208 *

McCormick Place serves as the 2010 venue for the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) annual Greenbuild conference. One of Chicago’s economic centers, McCormick Place has expanded to meet the demands of visiting conventions and events, as well as to minimize its environmental impact. McCormick Place’s West and South buildings are each certified under the LEED® Green Rating System and guided by a Green Action Team.

Since opening in 1996, McCormick Place South has exemplified the beauty and benefits of energy efficiency and daylighting. Contributing to this demonstration, more than a mile of Wausau Window and Wall Systems® custom-engineered, high-performance curtainwall was installed by glazing contractor Harmon, Inc.

image provide by Wausau Window and Wall Systems

“We’re proud to have contributed to this enduring, city-defining, iconic building,” says David DeBettignies, Wausau’s regional sales manager. “It was an exciting opportunity to be a part of McCormick South, as well as an engineering challenge. As McCormick Place has expanded, we’re pleased that it has continued to serve the community, the convention-bound visitors and the environment.”

In addition to adding more than 840,000 square feet of exhibit space and 160,000 square feet of meeting room space, the expansion had to link two of the complex’s existing building. To bring the architectural vision into physical reality, Wausau and Harmon worked closely with the develop and design/build consortium, Mc3D Inc. Assembled solely for this project, the architectural members of the team included A. Epstein & Sons International Inc. of Chicago, together with Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates of Atlanta.

McCormick Place South’s design called for unusually wide glass units to provide unobstructed views of the Lake Michigan shore, while meeting severe load and wind deflection requirements. Meeting the challenges, Wausau created custom unitized wall units spanning 27-feet wide and 4-feet tall, stacked vertically up the building’s lake-view face. Wausau also fabricated the large, clearstory windows measuring 7-feet wide by 16-feet tall. Operable vents automatically open if signaled from the fire protection system. Viracon’s safety and energy control glazing further contributed to the building’s performance goals

Orthogonal-shaped mullions enhance McCormick Place South’s large lites with an aesthetically-pleasing look, as does the decorative, silk-screened glass. A clean, custom-blended, white finish was applied to the aluminum framing by Linetec. This durable, painted coating withstands the Windy City’s demanding climate and minimized maintenance throughout the years. The entire complex’s design, operations and leadership recently were recognized as the “Best Convention Center” by the Trade Show Exhibitors Association with the 2009 Exhibitors’ Choice Award.

USGBC Greenbuild exhibitors and others are becoming more familiar with McCormick Place’s environmental conservation and sustainability efforts. Toward these goals, the buildings:
* Use compact fluorescent bulbs throughout the facility in place of incandescent lamps
* Utilize variable frequency drives on HVAC motors throughout the campus
* Provide minimal HVAC in buildings and spaces during move-in, move-out and non-event days
* Turn off lights and non-essential escalators in areas that are not in use
* Limit the amount of toxic chemicals to keep the facilities clean and sanitary, such as using Green Seal cleaning products
* Purchased a hybrid vehicle to patrols for safety and security
* Encourage alternative transportation with access to mass transit and 5% of parking reserved in Parking Lot A for low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles
* Provide separate waste containers for paper, bottles, cans and general waste in public spaces
* Designate one trash compactor at each building to hold recyclable co-mingled waste, which is sorted by a waste management partner to determine diversion rates
* Work with the Chicago Restaurant Partners to ensure that Styrofoam or polystyrene plastic products will not be used for serving in catering and concessions operations and that biodegradable flatware, straws, serving dishes, and cups are used in the food courts
* Supply 100% recycled paper products in facility restrooms
* Offer water stations in public areas to limit the use of bottled water
* Purchase 10% of annual electricity needs from renewable sources, with the option for events to purchase additional renewable energy certificates for the difference in cost between non-renewable and renewable electricity.

McCormick Place South, 2301 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

* Owner: Metropolitan Pier and Exhibition Authority, Chicago

* Develop and design/build consortium: Mc3D Inc., Chicago;
– A. Epstein & Sons International Inc., architect/engineer
– Stein & Co. Special Facilities Inc., developer
– The Clark Construction Group, sponsoring general contractor
– Alex Munoz General Contractor Inc., contractor
– Huber, Hunt & Nichols Inc., contractor
– Louis Jones Enterprises Inc., contractor
– Morse Diesel International Inc., contractor
– Walsh Construction Co. of Illinois, contractor

* Architectural team:
– A. Epstein & Sons International Inc., Chicago
– Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates (TVSA), Atlanta

* Glazing contractor: Harmon, Inc., Chicago
* Glazing systems – manufacturer: Wausau Window and Wall Systems ; Wausau, Wis.
* Glazing systems – glass fabricator: Viracon, Owatonna, Minn.
* Glazing systems – finisher: Linetec, Wausau, Wis.
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A PDF of this announcement can be downloaded by clicking here.
A high-resolution project photo can be downloaded clicking here.

Filed under: Buildings + Infrastructure, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Linetec, Projects, USGBC, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on 11.11.10 Client News

Tubelite’s Gerard Schoeb earns LEED Green Associate Certification

* Tubelite will be exhibiting at Greenbuild in booth #L516 *

Walker, Mich. — Gerard Schoeb, a structural and applications engineer with Tubelite Inc., successfully passed the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design® (LEED®) Green Associate Certification.

Tubelite provides storefront, curtainwall, entrance and daylight control systems to commercial building teams. These products can contribute to projects pursuing certification through the LEED Rating Systems in the areas of daylighting and views, thermal comfort and energy efficiency, low-emitting materials and recycled content. All of Tubelite’s architectural products are manufactured using EcoLuminum™, a high recycled-content aluminum billet composition featuring environmentally-friendly finishes.

A part of Tubelite’s environmentally-responsible practices and customer support, it is a member of the USGBC, an exhibitor at the national Greenbuild conference, and an active participant in local USGBC chapters. The company encourages LEED education, certification and accreditation.

Schoeb shares his knowledge through presentations and articles. Recent opportunities have included groups and publications associated with the USGBC, the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI).

An engineer in the composites materials field for 18 years, Schoeb’s experience includes quality assurance, product development, manufacturing engineering, and structural engineering. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Wayne State University in Detroit and continues to pursue professional development opportunities, such as the LEED Green Associate Certification.

The LEED Green Associate credential, introduced in 2009, demonstrates comprehensive knowledge in green building and the LEED building rating system. It distinguishes individuals who support, but may not directly participate in, green building in their regular professional work. This credential is also a prerequisite to pursue the next tier of accreditation, LEED Accredited Professional with Specialty. For more information on the USGBC and LEED, please see www.usgbc.org and www.gbci.org.
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For a high-resolution portrait, please click here.

Filed under: AIA, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, People, Tubelite Inc., USGBC | Comments Off on 11.10.10 Client News

Ocean House resort hotel turns to Kolbe for restoration, protection

* Kolbe will be exhibiting at Greenbuild 2010 in booth #489 and at International Builders Show 2011 in booth #W929 *

For more than 135 years, The Ocean House resort hotel in Watch Hill, R.I., offered one of New England’s most spectacular ocean views. Serious structural issues forced its closure in 2003, but in autumn 2007 the $140 million project broke ground on the original site as the centerpiece of a mixed-use development. The restoration was completed in the summer of 2010. In June, its warm, yellow façade re-opened to welcome hotel guests and residents to their 72 rooms, five restaurants, croquet court and oceanfront beaches.

images provided by Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

Ocean House’s developer, Bluff Avenue LLC, sought to the restore the romance and historic elegance of the grand Victorian hotel, which gained international attention as the site of John F. Kennedy’s wedding to Jacqueline Bouvier. Renewing the love affair with this American icon that was constructed just after the Civil War, Ocean House needed significant updates to its gabled tower, mansard roof, sweeping porches and large windows. Two new wings also were added to take advantage of the sloping site to step down the hill toward the ocean.

Improvements to this coastal property included enhancing the structural integrity and hurricane-force protection. In early October, the property experienced one of its first heavy storms as the remnants of Tropical Storm Nicole tracked across New England. Those at Ocean House comfortably watched from their large windows and waited for the storm to pass.

“Ocean House’s project team found the right balance of style and function with our K-Force products,” says Cindy Bremer, vice president of marketing with Kolbe. “The traditional design detailing and wood construction of these windows and doors match well with the New England aesthetic. Without modifying this appearance, all of our K-Force products are tested to withstand intense coastal conditions and impact code for the area.”

“Kolbe was one of four different windows we tested. All four competitors were required to meet building codes, as well as rigorous standards for energy performance and hurricane force winds,” recalls Associate and Project Manager Meg Lyons, AIA, with Connecticut-based Centerbrook Architects.

She notes, “We were pleased with [Kolbe’s] muntin profile, which replicated the original very closely. What distinguished Kolbe’s products was

images provided by Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

their speed of installation. Kolbe’s window took about 20 minutes to install, whereas their competitor’s took up to an hour. With more than 500 windows to install on Ocean House, this represented a huge cost savings.”

H. Carr & Sons Construction of Rhode Island installed a total of 530 Kolbe K-Force windows and 123 doors on Ocean House. These include a combination of aluminum-clad Ultra Series and all-wood Heritage Series products. In addition to their hurricane impact-resistance, all products come standard with energy-efficient LoE² coating that reduces solar heat gain, helping control energy expenses.

The high-performance energy and impact features are integral to Kolbe’s K-Force window and door designs. This means structural reinforcements are invisible, allowing clear, safe, comfortable window views from 49 boutique hotel rooms and 23 year-round residential suites. Twelve of the suites are secluded oceanfront cottage residences with impeccable detailing. All suites offer year-round services found in the finest hotels such as an on-call butler, full-service restaurant and bar room service, spa facilities, an indoor pool, fitness facilities, and access to one of the finest beaches in New England.

Visitors and residents enjoy a luxurious seaside experience from The Ocean House. Preparing this destination for their arrival was the result of successfully overcoming many challenges. To accomplish this, Bluff Avenue, LLC assembled a team of nationally-recognized professionals, including Centerbrook Architects and H. Carr & Sons. The Peregrine Group, a Rhode Island-based real estate development and advisory firm, acted as development manager for the project since the purchase of the original Ocean House by Bluff Ave., LLC. Other key contributors were the Pinnacle Advisory Group, a Boston-based boutique hospitality consulting firm; and Dimeo Construction, a construction management and building company based in Providence, R.I.

Among the first identified challenges, despite the hope that the core of the historic hotel could be rehabilitated, Centerbrook found overwhelming deficiencies that made this goal unrealistic. Instead, the decision was made to replicate the 1868 building using salvaged historic elements and to reconstruct capitals, balustrades, and other features and integrate them into the new building.

Centerbrook Architects took precise measurements and molds of all interior and exterior architectural elements to enable the most accurate reproduction of these details possible. In total, more than 5,000 artifacts were salvaged from the hotel. The original reception desk and the old stone fireplace were carefully removed and are being meticulously restored. All salvageable, architectural elements from the “Captain’s Room” were dismantled and preserved for re-installation. The historic balcony and Palladian window were restored and installed into the building. And, each window was proportioned and positioned to correspond with its predecessor.
Carrying the intended, historic styling throughout Ocean House, Kolbe’s window and doors feature 5/8-inch performance divided lite (PDL) bars to replicate the former muntin grids, while providing modern performance. “The simple, yet substantially proportioned trim around the windows…” and “the size, spacing, scale, and six-over-six pattern of the historic windows were all-important features of the historic appearance of the Ocean House, and they have been duplicated in this reconstruction,” observed Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission.

In addition, Kolbe manufactured custom, curved glass units and unique sill design options that address Universal Design criteria and meet ADA requirements. “We’re proud our products can serve Ocean House’s many requirements,” says Bremer.

Through Kolbe’s windows, many guest rooms feature breathtaking water views, working fireplaces and private terraces. Each spacious room, ranging from 450-square-feet to the 3,000-square-foot deluxe suites, is appointed. Master craftsmanship is evident at every turn of the gracious interiors; from the impeccably detailed architectural elements to the imported hardwood floors, the decorative copper trim and the custom-designed furnishings.

images provided by Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

The new 152,600-square-foot Ocean House provides significantly more space, yet is scaled better to fit with the neighborhood. The hotel’s face to the community appears nearly 7,000 square feet smaller than the original. This less imposing scale was accomplished by reducing the amount of gross square feet measured at the lobby level and all of the floors above. Event spaces and amenity functions such as the pool now are below the lobby level and enclosed within the protective arms of the new hotel’s two wings. This shields them from view, while remaining a welcoming destination.

“It is a new building that replicates the original and brings back the spirit of the old building,” says Lyons. “The project has been tremendously successful.”

Nicholas C. Moore, Bluff Avenue, LLC’s president, adds, “There are few people today associated with the hotel who do not have or know a story to tell about the Ocean House and its beach. Preserving the fabled hotel and its grounds will keep the old memories alive and set a stage for new ones to come.”

The Ocean House; One Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill, R.I.
* Developer: Bluff Ave., LLC; Westerly, R.I.
* Members of Preferred Boutique, by Preferred Hotel Group
* Real estate development and advisory firm: The Peregrine Group LLC; Rumford, R.I.
* Consulting firm: Pinnacle Advisory Group, Inc., Boston
* Architectural and planning firm: Centerbrook Architects and Planners; Centerbrook, Conn.
* Interior design firm: Niemitz Design Group; Boston
* Construction management and building firm: Dimeo Construction Company; Providence, R.I.
* Window and door distributor: Cleary Millwork Co.; Rocky Hill, R.I.
* Window and door installing firm: H. Carr & Sons Construction; Providence, R.I.
* Window and door manufacturer: Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.; Wausau, Wis.

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Filed under: Buildings + Infrastructure, CLIENT NEWS, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Projects | Comments Off on 11.08.10 Client News

Wausau debuts new, online Green Product Selection Tool to assist with energy modeling and savings

* Wausau will be exhibiting at Greenbuild #L208 *

Wausau Window and Wall Systems introduces an online “Green Product Selection Tool” intended to provide a one-stop, visual reference to help users rank and compare performance information and potential energy savings.

“Today’s energy-efficient windows can help to dramatically lower building’s heating and cooling costs, while increasing occupants’ comfort and minimizing window surface condensation issues. But, choosing the most efficient window design for a commercial building can be difficult,” says Steve Fronek, Wausau’s vice president of technical services.

He adds, “Product information typically offers window properties such as U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Condensation Resistance. However, the relative importance of these properties depends on site-specific and building-specific conditions.”

Wausau Window and Wall Systems® Green Product Selection Tool allows users to choose from eight cities to view performance data between a set of Wausau products for either new construction or renovation projects. Visitor can gather performance information on:
* Annual energy
* Peak demand
* Carbon emissions
* Daylight
* Glare
* Condensation
* Cost savings

To generate these results, users choose from pull-down menus for the windows’ orientation, window-to-wall ratio, framing system, glass product and whether to rank or compare the performance information:
* A ranking will order the performance results of a selected design condition, compared to a generic double clear window (for new construction) or a generic single clear window (for replacement). The results also show a simple, color-coded spectrum of “worst to best” snapshot of all the performance data.
* A comparison presents four design scenarios to examine and compare the performance between those scenarios. The four scenarios are accompanied by bar graphs and explanations.
Using cost savings estimates generated by these comparisons, users can apply their project-specific, financial parameters to analyze payback time or rate of return.

Wausau’s Green Product Selection Tool was developed by John Carmody and Kerry Haglund, both researchers at the Center for Sustainable Building Research (CSBR) at the University of Minnesota. All simulations are done using COMFEN2 software by staff at CSBR and by the staff at the Windows and Daylighting Group at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Future additions are anticipated to include more geographic locations and building types, such as educational and health care facilities.

To access Wausau’s Green Product Selection Tool, please visit www.WausauWindow.com, choose the “Support Resources” menu in the top-center menu bar and then click on “Energy Modeling Tool.”
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Filed under: Buildings + Infrastructure, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Products, USGBC, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on 11.02.10 Client News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute names winner of President’s Award

* PMI will be exhibiting at Greenbuild in booth #357 *

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) Board President Lee Mercer of Moen Incorporated, bestowed its President’s Award to Klaus Fromme of Bradley Corporation during the PMI Fall Meeting, which took place Oct. 3-6, 2010 at the Liaison Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. This honor is given as a lifetime achievement award in recognition of outstanding contributions to the plumbing industry.

“This award was unexpected and very surprising, but I was very honored to be chosen for such a distinguished award,” Fromme said.

Fromme has been in the plumbing industry for 31 years and has been a contributor to both national and international standards development. In addition to being a PMI committee chair, he has also been active with several industry organizations. Fromme will be retiring from Bradley Corporation at the end of 2010. He plans to spend more time supporting the social and charitable organizations of Milwaukee of which he is a member and spend more time with his family.

For more information about the PMI Fall Meeting, visit www.pmihome.org or call 847-481-5500. The 2011 Spring Meeting will take place March 27-30 at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.

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Filed under: ASSOCIATION NEWS, People | Comments Off on 10.27.10 Association News

“Inspire” U360 Design Competition 2010 Winners Showbook available from Appleton Coated

Appleton Coated’s “Inspire” showcases the 2010 winning entries to the U360 Design Competition. This year’s competition includes new, special honors for Best of Show, Communication Excellence, Design Excellence, Print Excellence, and four Regional Recognition Awards. Entries for the 2011 U360 Competition are now being accepted through, Dec. 10, 2010.

“Just as last year’s ‘Proof’ showbook demonstrated the proof that print has purpose, ‘Inspire’ underscores print’s unmatched ability to inspire people,” says Ferkó Goldinger, advertising and promotion manager at Appleton Coated. “The judges chose pieces that exemplify the impact and inspiration that well-executed print delivers.”

The U360 Competition was judged by members of the Appleton Coated Design Council:
* Justin Ahrens, principal of Rule29 in Geneva, Ill.;
* Lynda Decker, owner and principal of Decker Design Inc. in New York;
* David Kohler, owner and executive creative director of OTTO in New York;
* Bill Thorburn, founding principal of The Thorburn Group in Minneapolis;
* Kathleen Turaski, co-founder and principal of Resonance Marketing in Decatur, Ga.; and
* Bryan Peterson, owner and principal of Peterson Ray & Company in Dallas.
Lori Carrabba, print production professional at G2 in New York joined the judging process to focus on the award for best in print. A photo gallery of the judging can be viewed here.

“U360’s winning selections share an integrity in their work, a commitment to making the right decisions and an uncompromising passion for each choice made. From the ideal paper choice to the proper printing, from the arresting images to the impactful copy, each choice pushes the concept forward,” says Thorburn. “Thank goodness the passion for this premium level of work is alive and well. These high-impact pieces transcend the times, the trends and the economy as uplifting, inspiring examples to all of us.”

“Overall, there is a move towards a more understated, refined feel,” says Turaski. “The design itself can’t feel too complicated or expensive, yet there is a need to feel different, to stand out, and to make the piece feel special and distinct.”

Turaski adds that the entries used “spot UV gloss, blind emboss or deboss to give additional texture or contrast to the printed material.” She cautions “The special finishes are more likely to get someone’s attention, yet are understated and don’t compete with the message. There is so much competition for attention, and the designer knows they’ve got a limited amount of time to inspire the reader.”

Each winning selection is printed all, or in part, on Utopia and/or Curious Collection papers. “Inspire” also is printed on Utopia U1X:Green, a Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC) certified paper that is manufactured with electricity in the form of renewable energy and a minimum of 20% post-consumer recovered fiber. Its medal-worthy cover features Curious Metallics Super Gold.

An online gallery of winners can be found at www.utopiapaper.com , in the U360 section. For more information about the U360 Competition, Utopia and Curious Collection, visit http://www.appletoncoated.com and http://www.curiouspapers.com.
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Filed under: Appleton Coated, CLIENT NEWS, Type-Paper-Print | Comments Off on 10.26.10 Client News

Kolbe wins 2010 Green Product Award for Windquest Series Energy Performance windows

* Kolbe will be exhibiting its award-winning Windquest Series EP windows at Greenbuild 2010 in booth #489 and at International Builders Show 2011 in booth #W929 *

Door & Window Manufacturer’s 2010 Green Product Award panel of judges recognized Kolbe’s Windquest® Series Energy Performance (EP) windows as the winning selection in the window manufacturer category. In addition to products’ green features and attributes, judges evaluated the manufacturers’ commitment to overall environmental sustainability, the accuracy of the companies’ promotional materials, the use of third-party verifications and other factors.

Earning top honors, Kolbe’s Windquest EP windows were highlighted for their triple glazing system that helps achieve insulating values nearly twice those currently required by ENERGY STAR® and exceeding 2010 ENERGY STAR criteria for all U.S. climate zones. These windows also qualify for the Department of Energy’s Volume Purchase Program.

Available as casement, awning and studio windows, these low-maintenance, long-lasting products come standard with a special combination of high-performance LoE coatings on the glass to optimize U-value, visible transmittance, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, and external appearance. Further demonstrating the product’s exceptional performance, Kolbe’s Windquest EP windows are certified to achieve an R-PG50 (residential performance grade) rating and structural DP50 rating.

“Kolbe has synergy between elements, finding a balance among them – new and replacement products, energy and impact performance, technical information and marketing,” commented one of the judges.

Door & Window Manufacturer’s Green Product Awards also noted Kolbe’s dedication to environmental stewardship exemplified through its materials sourcing, recycled content, personnel and product certification, and manufacturing processes, including Forest Stewardship Council Chain-of-Custody. Kolbe’s practices, people and products support green building guidelines, such as outlined by the American National Standards Institute, the Green Building Initiative™, the International Code Council, the National Association of Home Builders, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Rating System.

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Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Products, USGBC | Comments Off on 10.26.10 Client News

University of Wisconsin at Stout selects energy-efficient, durable Wausau windows for Hovlid Hall expansion and renovation

* Wausau will be exhibiting its energy-efficient products at Greenbuild #L208 *

A campus-wide celebration kicked off the re-opening of Hovlid Hall, the newly renovated and expanded residential facility on the University of Wisconsin-Stout campus. To ensure long-term, low-maintenance performance, the renovation included new, energy-efficient windows from Wausau Window and Wall Systems.

Work on the building was part of a $13 million project that included renovation of Hovlid Hall‘s 40,000 square feet and 194-person capacity of residential space, plus construction of a new student dining and fitness facility. Its new 14,000-square-foot expansion links the building to the new North Point Dining and Fitness Center, and Fleming Hall, another of the seven residence halls on UW-Stout’s north campus.

In January 2010, the 51-year-old residence hall was emptied in preparation for its complete restoration. Hovlid Hall’s fresh design was conceived by SDS Architects, Inc. of Eau Claire, Wis., and implemented by R.J. Jurowski Construction of Whitehall, Wis. Working closely with the architect and contractor, specialty glazing contractor Simmons Building Products, Inc. of Milwaukee selected Wausau’s 6250 Series SuperWall system and 4100 Series horizontal sliding windows.

As part of the Advantage by Wausau offering of standard products, these window systems met the project’s goals of improved comfort and increased energy efficiency, as well as the accelerated construction timelines and limited budgets often associated with education projects. Helping conserve energy and associated utility costs, Viracon‘s Low-E insulating glass balances natural light transmission and thermal performance, while maintaining outdoor views and a comfortable interior. Wausau’s operable windows also present a seasonal opportunity to save on air conditioning allowing for natural ventilation and fresh air.

On both the interior and exterior, Wausau’s aluminum frames for the SuperWall and window systems were finished with an eco-friendly anodize by Linetec. Highlighting the modern, metallic aesthetic, a clear and a champagne color anodize were used. The resulting finish resists corrosion, humidity and ultra-violet degradation. The anodized surface will withstand the wear of dormitory use, befitting UW-Stout’s desire for an upgraded facility that would last for generations.

Alan Symicek, the University of Wisconsin engineering specialist who oversaw the project, explained to WQOW-TV: “[UW] Housing wants this building to last for the next 50 years, so they’re choosing durable building materials.”

Student rooms were enhanced with new doors, closets, desks and dressers, along with new voice and data networks. Showers were remodeled to give students more privacy and accommodate those with disabilities. Improved public gathering spaces include new, fully equipped kitchens on each floor and a remodeled recreation area in the basement. The landscape and outdoor areas surrounding the new complex have been completely upgraded. Mechanical, electrical, telecommunications cabling, fire alarm and fire protection systems were replaced. New heating, plumbing and electrical systems, carpets and windows were installed.

The new space features a handicapped-accessible, centralized entryway and lobby area that will serve both residence halls. Students also will have access to a fireplace lounge, welcome center, convenience store, informal meeting areas and support spaces. University officials have said they envision the new complex as the primary gathering place for the approximately 900 residents living on the north campus.

University of Wisconsin-Stout Chancellor Charles W. Sorensen stated, “This project represents a major improvement in terms of facilities and convenience for students living on north campus. North Point is simply a beautiful building, and Hovlid has been transformed from one of the oldest to one of the most modern residence halls on campus. We’re excited about the improvements in the quality of student life at UW-Stout.”

UW-Stout is located in Menomonie, Wis., about 70 miles east of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The school’s 2009-10 enrollment was slightly more than 9,000.

To learn more about Wausau’s higher education success stories and window products for educational facilities, please visit http://www.WausauWindow.com, or call 877-678-2983.

Hovlid Hall, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie, Wis.
Owner: University of Wisconsin
Architect: SDS Architects, Inc., Eau Claire, Wis.
Contractor: R.J. Jurowski Construction, Whitehall, Wis.
Glazing contractor: Simmons Building Products, Inc., Milwaukee, Wis.
Glazing systems – manufacturer: Wausau Window and Wall Systems; 6250 SuperWall Series and 4100 Series; Wausau, Wis.
Glazing systems – glass fabricator: Viracon, Inc.; Owatonna, Minn.
Glazing systems – finisher: Linetec; anodize; Wausau Wis.

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Filed under: Buildings + Infrastructure, CLIENT NEWS, Linetec, Projects, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on 10.25.10 Client News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute meets with key Congressional staff

– Urges support for the HomeStar/WaterSense consumer rebate and enactment of The Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act –

The Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI), as part of its second annual Legislative Advocacy Day, met with key staff on Capitol Hill from 15 states to discuss the importance of the plumbing manufacturing industry and seek immediate, bipartisan support for two legislative matters of importance to the industry. The two legislative issues included providing the nation with clean, safe drinking water and water-efficient plumbing products prior to the final adjournment of the 111th Congress. Specifically, PMI and its members urged the country’s leaders to expedite the passage of “The Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act” and to support the HomeStar/WaterSense consumer rebate provisions within an energy bill.

“Clean Energy Jobs and Oil Company Accountability Act of 2010″ (S. 3663) is the energy bill under consideration in the U.S. Senate. It includes the HomeStar Retrofit Rebate title, which would encourage consumer demand for water-efficient products that are labeled in compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) WaterSense® program. As currently drafted, a homeowner could receive a rebate of $150 on the cumulative purchase of $300 for the purchase and the installation of WaterSense-labeled products.

“PMI strives to ensure that this rebate is available to homeowners regardless of whether they install the products themselves or choose to hire a contractor,” says PMI Executive Director Barbara C. Higgens. “Installation by either a homeowner or a contractor would protect and create jobs in the plumbing manufacturing sector, while delivering the desired water and energy savings.”

According to the EPA, at least 36 states will experience severe water shortages by 2013. The agency estimates that if every household had WaterSense-labeled products, the nation would save 3 trillion gallons of water and more than $17 billion per year. In addition, if just 1% of U.S. homes replaced older, inefficient toilets with WaterSense-labeled models, the country would save more than 38 million kWh of electricity, the equivalent of 43,000 households’ monthly electrical supply.

PMI was one of the earliest partners in the WaterSense program and its members’ products have earned the WaterSense label, demonstrating that the products have been consumer tested and reduce water consumption by at least 20%. “We are committed to protecting the future of our national and local water supply through safe, water-efficient plumbing products and practices,” says Higgens.

She adds, “That is why we also are proud to support the 0.25% standard for lead in the Safe Drinking Water Act. We have worked with Congress for several years to uniformly reduce the lead standard for pipes, pipe fittings and plumbing fittings to 0.25% across the nation, which is consistent with the current laws in California, Maryland and Vermont.”

Helping accomplish these goals, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the “Assistance, Quality and Affordability Act of 2010″ (AQUA – H.R. 5320) in July 2010. On Sept. 29, 2010, PMI’s work with the bipartisan leadership of the U.S. Senate Environment & Public Works Committee spurred the introduction of “The Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act” (S. 3874). This freestanding bill directly matches the 0.25% lead provision already approved the House’s AQUA bill. The EPA, in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, allows faucets to be sold in the U.S. with a level of lead that does not leach more than an amount equivalent to a teaspoon of water in an Olympic-size pool.

Aging infrastructures, including pipe and plumbing infrastructure components, are the main contributors of trace amounts of lead in today’s U.S. water supply. In 2003, the EPA estimated it would cost $276.8 billion and take more than 20 years to upgrade. PMI also supports legislation pending before Congress to address this infrastructure need.

PMI and its members discussed the urgency of these legislative issues with government leaders immediately following the PMI Fall Meeting held Oct. 3-6 in Washington, D.C. The advocacy efforts and Fall Meeting on Capitol Hill actively demonstrate PMI’s mission:
* To promote the water efficiency, health, safety, quality and environmental sustainability of plumbing products, while maximizing consumer choice and value in a fair and open marketplace.
* To provide a forum for the exchange of information and industry education.
* To represent openly the member’s interests and advocate for sound environmental and public health policies in the regulatory/legislative processes.
* To enhance the plumbing industry’s growth and expansion.

Delivering on this mission, PMI’s educational website, SafePlumbing.org, presents news and information about clean, safe drinking water and water efficiency. This convenient, online resource gives lawmakers, journalists, industry professionals and homeowners fast access to research findings, scientific data and industry facts.
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Filed under: ASSOCIATION NEWS, Green Goals | Comments Off on 10.22.10 Association News