Azle Elementary in Texas relies on resilient Tubelite aluminum framing systems

Serving 750 students in grades 5 and 6, Azle Elementary School features several Tubelite aluminum framing systems for resilient, continuous use in the warm Texas climate.

Azle Independent School District’s long-time partner, VLK Architects, selected Tubelite Therml=Block® TU24650 Series Storefront, E4500 Series Storefront, and Monumental Wide Stile Entrance Doors. VLK said, “The new school was designed with an abundance of natural light and unique learning spaces throughout the campus.”

Tubelite’s customer, Texas Commercial Glass Concepts (TCGC), worked closely with BTC Construction to ensure a successful installation. Minimizing maintenance and repairs, Tubelite aluminum framing systems and entrances were finished by Linetec in a clear Class I anodize. This extremely durable finish withstands direct outdoor and solar exposure. Coupled with the robust tie-rod construction of Tubelite doors, these products are well suited for the demanding daily use of an elementary school.

Contributing to more comfortable learning spaces in the Texas heat, Tubelite TU24650 storefront features dual thermally broken aluminum framing. This dual cavity and debridged ultra-thermal barrier improve U-Factors and condensation resistance. Paired with high thermal performance glazing, these systems support energy utility savings, school district’s budgets and taxpayers’ contributions to public schools.

Repurposing existing structures also respects the community’s investment. VLK explained, “The decision was made to replace the cherished school which is the oldest facility in the district and renovate the original building to become the district’s daycare and administration facility. It became VLK’s charge to design two new elementary schools that embrace modern educational practices, yet still honor the rich legacy of each campus.”

Respecting the architectural heritage, rock complements the glass and metal exterior façade on Azle Elementary. Its interior offers a large learning commons, various large and small group collaboration areas, labs for science and motor skills, as well as other subject-specific and flexible learning spaces. The school also has an outdoor learning corridor, a playground, and a large open play field for outdoor activities.

“It is amazing to know that Azle Elementary School has been serving its community by educating students for over a century. It is an honor to be a part of that continued legacy for the next century,” said VLK’s principal, Clinton Schiver.

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Azle Elementary School, 1200 Lakeview Dr., Azle, TX 76020; https://www.azleisd.net/o/ae
• Azle Independent School District; Azle, Texas; https://www.azleisd.net
• VLK Architects, Inc.; Fort Worth, Texas; https://vlkarchitects.com
• BTC Construction (formerly Buford Thompson Company); Fort Worth, Texas; https://btcbuilds.com
• Texas Commercial Glass Concepts (TCGC); Weatherford, Texas; https://texascommercialglass.com
• Storefront aluminum framing system – manufacturer: Tubelite; Wausau, Wisconsin; https://tubeliteusa.com
• Storefront aluminum framing system – finishing service provider: Linetec; Wausau, Wisconsin; https://linetec.com
• Photographer: Joe Hernandez

Tubelite and Linetec are brands of Apogee Enterprises’ Architectural Framing Systems segment.

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