Wausau’s HRX curtainwall system well-suited for college and university high-rise buildings

Wausau Window and Wall Systems 6250i-HRX curtainwall system is designed specifically for the floor-to-floor spans and loads of high-rise construction such as residence halls,

Wausau's HRX curtainwall system

administrative office towers and signature “gateway” university buildings. In addition to the HRX curtainwall system’s vertical applications, Wausau offers an optional, composite system to accommodate longer spans such as mechanical floors and large floor plans.

Wausau’s curtainwall provides campus buildings enhanced condensation performance and low U-Factor, along with panoramic, floor-to-ceiling views. Further enhancing environmentally sound design, Wausau’s aluminum systems may be specified with recycled content and can be finished with liquid paints composed of up to 100% post-industrial waste, or powder paint and anodize finishes specified as VOC-free coatings.

Coupled with the recognized benefits of daylight and outside views, these features may aid buildings seeking certification under such programs as the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Green Building Rating System™.

Download a PDF of the entire product news release by clicking here.

Filed under: AAMA, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on Client News 9/1/09

Wausau’s manufacturing center earns LEED-Silver certification

Wausau Window and Wall Systems’ new manufacturing center was awarded LEED® Silver, established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute. LEED, an acronym for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design,” is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings.

The company’s 370,000-square-foot manufacturing center and office building completed construction in September 2008. The building was designed by Somerville, Inc. of Green Bay, Wis., and constructed by Miron Construction Co., Inc. of Neenah, Wis. Located on 51 acres at 7800 International Drive in Wausau, Wis., the facility expands and improves development in this area, while preserving and enhancing the natural environment.

Operable windows for natural light, ventilation

“Building owners, architects and contractors are looking more closely at the manufacturing practices and facilities that produce the materials contributing to their projects’ performance, durability and other green attributes. Increasingly, they are seeking manufacturers who walk the walk,” says Wausau’s president, Rick Marshall. “We continually review our operations for opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce waste and expand upon our existing, green business practices.”

Download a PDF of the entire product news release by clicking here.

Filed under: AAMA, CLIENT NEWS, Linetec, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on Client News 8/28/09

AAMA provides architects with eight continuing education courses
Seminar offered in conjunction with the GlassBuild America Show

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) will host local architects during the Architects of a Better Mind educational seminar presented at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta on September 30 and October 1.

The event will focus on up-to-date insights on residential and commercial fenestration product applications. Offered concurrently with the GlassBuild America trade show, the seminar will feature eight one-hour Learning Unit (LU) courses accredited by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Each course qualifies for Health, Safety and Welfare (HSW) continuing education credits. By attending, AIA members can fulfill their full year’s HSW continuing education requirements.

The following courses will be presented:
* “Specifying Windows and Doors Using Performance Standards”
* “Glass: The Right Choice”
* “Vinyl Windows: Designed for Performance”
* “Introduction to Designing Fenestration for Blast Mitigation”
* “Forensic Water Testing of Fenestration Products”
* “The Aluminum Advantage”
* “Fiberglass for Fenestration”
* “Designing Windows for Improved Sound Attenuation”

The registration fee for the event is $100 ($50 for AAMA Members), and covers all educational courses, processing of all credits with the AIA, continental breakfast on both event days, a free lunch pass and complimentary entrance to the GlassBuild America trade show, which will take place September 30 – October 2.

To view more information about the courses offered, or to register for Architects of a Better Mind, please visit the AAMA Continuing Education Web site.

AAMA continuing education learning units are available as classroom programs through participating members or as online self-study courses. For more information regarding AAMA’s educational offerings, visit the AAMA Web site or visit their representatives at GlassBuild America in booth #2331.

Filed under: AAMA, CLIENT NEWS | Comments Off on Client News 8/19/09

Kolbe’s new ThermaPlus LoE glass expands window choices to meet federal tax credit requirements for home energy efficiency improvements

Kolbe introduces ThermaPlus™ LoE insulating glass to present homeowners with more choices in window products qualifying for the federal income tax credit for energy efficient home upgrades. The maximum credit has been raised to $1,500 for combined improvements to one, existing, primary residence during the years 2009-2010.

Kolbe's new ThermaPlus LoE glass

Homeowners are required to document that windows they have purchased meet a combined U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient rating of .30 or less. The U-factor is based on a window’s resistance to heat flow and its insulating value; the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures the fraction of solar energy admitted, and indicates how well the product blocks heat caused by sunlight.

Necessary supporting records are purchase receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement listing the U-Value and SHGC rating. Kolbe provides its certification statement and thermal performance ratings at its Web site. It also offers an easy, online selection tool to review its numerous window products to meet these requirements. To use this tool, please visit Kolbe’s Web site and click on “2009 Stimulus Package & Energy Tax Credits.” Users can search and sort by product model, product name, product series, gas fill, or by glass coating such as “ThermaPlus LoE.”

“ThermaPlus LoE glass enhances the thermal performance of the glass, which meets the more stringent Stimulus energy performance requirements. This helps homeowners achieve long-term savings by reducing energy bills,” notes Cindy Bremer, Kolbe’s director of marketing. She adds that this new glass option is “unique to Kolbe.”

Ensuring long-term performance and aesthetics, ThermaPlus LoE insulating glass also features a protective coating on the interior pane that reduces the appearance of mars and scratches. The extra coating improves durability and makes the product easy to clean.

Read the full press release and download images at Kolbe’s online media room.

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co. | Comments Off on Client News 8/18/09

Kolbe offers Magnum Series tilt-turn wood windows

Functional and elegant, Kolbe’s Magnum Series tilt-turn wood window combines European styling and American practicality. Unique hardware allows the tilt-turn sash to both function like an inswing casement window, and tilt in from the top like a hopper window providing additional, natural ventilation. Energy-efficient, LoE²-270 glass units are standard on the Magnum Series tilt-turn window. A variety of glass options are available to match performance and design preferences. Choices include tempered glass, laminated glass, impact glass, and decorative, patterned or obscure glass.

Resembling the look of historic wood windows, Kolbe offers divided lites in standard and custom design patterns, as well as a wide selection of exterior wood trims. All handles and coordinating hardware are available in brass, antique brass, white and bronze-colored finishes.

Kolbe's Magnum Series tilt-turn wood windows

For a bold, personalized expression, the exterior of tilt-turn windows can be finished in a high-performance paint available in more than 30 colors, as well as custom colors. Interior stain choices range from light to dark to match with nearly any décor. The stains complement the wide variety of wood species, including those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative’s Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders’ Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

High-resolution image and full press release available for download at Kolbe’s online media room.

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co. | Comments Off on Client News 8/14/09

Anchor Block Company’s Bravissi™ Sculpted Masonry Veneer products

Anchor’s Bravissi Sculpted Masonry Veneer product mimics real stone look, without the cost

Professional contractors, engineers, designers and architects seeking a cost-effective way to build with the beautiful look of natural stone are turning to Anchor Block Company’s Bravissi™ Sculpted Masonry Veneer products.

Designed as inspired by classic, hand-chiseled masonry, this highly realistic stone-look veneer suits buildings’ interior and exterior applications. “Bravissi veneers add warmth, character and personality to any structure,” says Mark Severson, sales manager. “Its traditional stone-look, versatility and affordability make these veneers a great option for budget-conscious projects, while presenting a distinctive, lasting impression.”

Offered in eight popular color choices, Bravissi Sculpted Masonry Veneer’s range of shapes, sizes and colors for nearly unlimited design and pattern options.

The products are sold direct or through Anchor Block authorized masonry distributors throughout the upper Midwest. For supplier information and product details, please visit www.anchorblock.com.

Anchor produces traditional concrete masonry blocks, retaining wall blocks, pavers and other masonry products, using more than 7,000 color, shape and texture combinations to add color, design and versatility to homes, businesses and public green spaces. With an in-house quality control laboratory, Anchor ensures its products are durable and consistent for projects that will stand the test of time.

Celebrating 100 years of leadership in the landscape and construction materials industry and in the Midwest, Anchor Block Company designs and manufactures concrete landscape and masonry materials. From the standard gray blocks of the early 1900s to the innovative, diverse line of products available today, the company has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of contractors, architects, homeowners, engineers and retailers. Anchor’s masonry and landscape products are sold in Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Nebraska.

See www.anchorblock.com for more information.

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS | Comments Off on Client News 8/10/09

Anchor redefines structural blocks with Tufut™ Structural Masonry

Anchor Block’s Tufut™ Structural Concrete Masonry Units offer construction industry professionals a new way to design, engineer and build beautiful and economical structures. This 24-inch, “two foot,” structural block can help shorten development schedules by covering more space with fewer blocks.

Tufut units are available in smooth, scored, rock face and burnished textures and are sold direct and through Anchor Block’s authorized masonry distributors throughout the upper Midwest. For supplier information and product details, please visit www.anchorblock.com.

“We are very proud to offer this industry-changing, product to the construction community,” says Mark Severson, sales manager. “Anchor is constantly striving to provide greater design flexibility, quality and innovation, and we’ve achieved these goals with Tufut.”

Anchor Block’s Tufut™ Structural Concrete Masonry Units

Available in a variety of solid and blended colors, Anchor Block also can provide custom color matching for personalized creations. Helping to meet tight construction timelines, Tufut blocks also install up to 30% faster and require less grout. Each two-foot-long unit covers 50% more wall area per unit than conventional blocks. Maintaining structural integrity, Tufut units exceed ASTM-C90 requirements. Each unit is equivalent in weight to standard 12-inch block.

Anchor produces traditional concrete masonry blocks, retaining wall blocks, pavers and other masonry products, using more than 7,000 color, shape and texture combinations to add color, design and versatility to homes, businesses and public green spaces. With an in-house quality control laboratory, Anchor ensures its products are durable and consistent for projects that will stand the test of time.

Celebrating 100 years of leadership in the landscape and construction materials industry and in the Midwest, Anchor Block Company designs and manufactures concrete landscape and masonry materials. From the standard gray blocks of the early 1900s to the innovative, diverse line of products available today, the company has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of contractors, architects, homeowners, engineers and retailers. Anchor’s masonry and landscape products are sold in Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Nebraska.

See www.anchorblock.com for more information.
###

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS | Comments Off on Client News 8/7/09

Custom exterior looks, specialty shapes from Kolbe

Unrestrained by rectangles, Kolbe’s window shapes can be as unique as the individuals behind the glass. To pique the imagination, Kolbe offers a variety of shapes including oval, round, square, four-leaf clover, Gothic arch, trapezoid, pentagon, diamond and other custom shaped units, all in a variety of species and finishes.

“We can create premium-quality wood windows in almost any shape,” boasts Cindy Bremer, Kolbe’s director of marketing. As examples she notes, “Oval and square windows are ideal for Victorian-styled projects. Other historic homes prefer the bold shape of a Gothic arch. Full circle and custom-shaped radius units accent almost any home’s design.”

Whether choosing all-wood, aluminum-clad or vinyl units, Kolbe’s window geometries can be complemented with a wide selection of glass options including patterned (obscure) glass, which allows sunlight into a room while preserving privacy. Patterns range from elegant to whimsical in finely crafted glass designs. For additional interest, beveled glass, v-groove glass and colored glass options are available. Brass, lead or zinc caming can be incorporated to make any window shape stand out.

Further distinguishing these windows, Kolbe offers wood species certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative’s Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders’ Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

Digital copy and photos available for download at Kolbe’s online media room.

Filed under: CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co. | Comments Off on Client News 8/6/09

Adams Magnetic Products Co. has expanded its Neodymium (“Neo”) magnetic products by offering these powerful, compact magnetic discs with adhesive backing and a new, easy pull-tab. The liner covering the adhesive on these strong TabMAG Neo magnets has a protruding tab for easy removal. Once removed, the adhesive is exposed and the magnet can be quickly applied to packaging, displays, fixtures and other closure or presentation applications.

“Designed to save time and effort, this is definitely a less labor-intensive option and a blessing for those with poor dexterity,” says Kerry Buntrock, Adams’ general manager. “Whether clearly visible or completely hidden from view, magnets offer near limitless potential for creating convenient, durable and re-useable high-end packaging that carry a company’s brand far beyond the initial product purchase.”

He adds, “In signage and displays, magnets allow for fast, neat updates with minimal tools and no training. Suitable for a variety of surfaces, magnets provide the strength and durability of mechanical closures and fasteners, with the mobility of temporary hangers.”

For more information on Adams’ TabMAG Neo magnets, or other magnetic assemblies and products, please visit www.adamsmagnetic.com, or call 800-747-7543.

Filed under: ALL TOPICS | Comments Off on Client News 8/5/08

Wausau's S.E.A.L. windows

Wausau’s S.E.A.L. windows offer interior upgrades for Sound, Energy, Air and Light

Wausau Window and Wall Systems’ “Sound, Energy, Air and Light” S.E.A.L. Series upgrades the acoustical and thermal performance of healthcare facilities’ existing window systems. Installation can be accomplished from inside the building, minimizing disruption to patients and staff, regardless of the season.

Part of the Advantage by Wausau offering, these standard windows are ideally suited to meet the accelerated pace of construction timelines for low- and mid-rise buildings such as hospitals, clinics and medical facilities. Competitively priced, they are backed with an industry-leading warranty of up to 10 years.

Product descriptions, architectural details, AutoCAD files, specifications and technical guides for Wausau’s S.E.A.L. windows — and for all of Wausau’s windows, doors, specialty glazing and cladding products, and curtainwall systems — can be found online at WausauWindow.com.

Download a PDF of the entire product news release by clicking here.

Filed under: AAMA, CLIENT NEWS, Green Goals, Linetec, Wausau Window and Wall Systems | Comments Off on Client News 8/3/09