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Glass
Bulletproof products: 3 things architects should bear in mind
April 17, 2020
Security has always been a concern for architectural designers and project managers, but the nature of the threats that we face in both private and public spaces is changing rapidly. This has mandated a wide-scale reconsideration of how we protect ourselves at home, at work, or in any of the places where we may be vulnerable to firearms-related offenses. Ensuring that buildings are equipped to deal with real and perceived security threats falls under a key part of the architect’s role: To ensure both functionality and safety of a premise’s design and structural elements. This increasingly means considering bulletproof products such as reinforced windows and forced-entry resistant doors when looking for contractors.
5 Considerations When Installing Glass Skylights
March 16, 2020
Glass skylights can provide many benefits when installed in commercial buildings. There are various criteria to consider when planning a glass skylight installation; however, we’ve highlighted the five points that we believe are the most commonly overlooked. While a successful glass skylight installation involves the culmination of efforts by an experienced team, considering the following items in the early stages of project development can help get your skylight installation in the right direction.
Three glazing myths debunked - dispelling common concerns about specifying glass railing
January 29, 2020
No matter how you look at it – or through it – glass is a clear choice among today’s commercial architects and designers. From sports arenas and shopping malls to hotels and healthcare facilities, savvy specifiers are increasingly looking to incorporate glass into their project designs, presenting a huge growth opportunity for contract glaziers. However, taking on projects involving glass railing can be challenging due to lack of familiarity with the products or concerns related to engineering.
11 Shower remodeling mistakes you don't want to make
September 16, 2019
This article gives you practical shower remodeling tips to reduce mistakes to save you time, money and aggravation. So, let’s look at 11 shower remodeling mistakes you don’t need to make.
Is glass going out of style?
September 6, 2019
Glass has been used as the portal to the outdoors for centuries. But times are changing.
In a world where we are becoming more aware of the environmental effects of structures and people’s changing needs, architects and other industry professionals are concerned that glass no longer adequately addresses these key building factors:
- Daylighting
- Energy Efficiency
- Aesthetics
- Safety & Privacy
Daylighting Systems Project Spotlight: Carver Public School
August 5, 2019
When Carver Public Schools in Massachusetts looked to replace two older school buildings with one new facility to house students pre-K through 5th grade, they sought the help of HMFH Architects to assist them in designing an energy-efficient and vibrant learning space. What resulted is the new Carver Elementary School, a more than 110,000 square foot learning space that was 1 of 5 schools nationwide to receive a “Citation of Excellence” from Learning by Design Magazine.
Shielding solutions you can look through: leaded glass and leaded acrylic
July 5, 2019
In the last article I wrote on radiation shielding materials, I explored the factors considered by a shielding materials expert when designing radiation shielding. Lead, tungsten and concrete are all very effective forms of shielding that have their advantages and disadvantages, but one downside is these materials are not transparent. Two common and reliable solutions to provide safe shielding; lead X-Ray glass or clear lead acrylic. Both materials are used in variety of application, from windows in NDT Rooms, to small windows on tungsten vial shields. While lead glass is typically more economical than acrylic, both are materials that a shielding materials expert would consider when presented with the challenge of creating transparent radiation shielding.
4-Sided Toggle Glazed Curtain Wall System
July 1, 2019
If you are looking to design a building with uninterrupted all-glass façades AND high thermal performance, Clearwall™ Curtain Wall is the solution. This 4-sided Toggle Glazed (TG) system* delivers this desired aesthetic for low-rise applications.
Case study: Fast Tracking the Canadian Grand Prix
June 7, 2019
Learn how Unicel Architectural Corp. supplied 32,500 sq. ft. of curtain wall, skylights and 1 km of glass railing during a tight 10-month construction timeline over a tough winter season.
How has active shooter response changed?
May 15, 2019
Shooter response training has changed as law enforcement and emergency first responders have learned from more experience. In this article and video you will learn about the changes that have been made to Active Shooter Response.
5 Considerations when installing glass skylights
May 13, 2019
Glass skylights can provide many benefits when installed in commercial buildings. There are various criteria to consider when planning a glass skylight installation; however, we’ve highlighted the five points that we believe are the most commonly overlooked. While a successful glass skylight installation involves the culmination of efforts by an experienced team, considering the following items in the early stages of project development can help get your skylight installation in the right direction.
Glass: smooth, reflective, brilliant
March 22, 2019
StoVentec Glass is a ventilated rainscreen cladding system consisting of a glass faced composite panel, thermal insulation and sub-construction. It is available in many panel sizes and different surface colors and finishes, offering great aesthetic potential for façade designs on new-build or refurbished buildings.
Uses and costs for security window film vs. bulletproof glass
March 6, 2019
Scissors are great for cutting things, but you wouldn’t use them to mow your lawn or trim your trees. It’s a similar story with security window film. It may provide protection against shattering and intruders, but it doesn’t solve every security challenge. Sure, security film has undergone many advances, but the fact remains: it doesn’t stop bullets.
Why Choose Glass Deck Railing?
November 26, 2018
Since modern glass making was revolutionized in the 1950s, glass has been increasingly used for interior and exterior building applications due to its visibility and versatility. Glass railings are excellent examples of this, adding visibility and versatility to decks, balconies, stairways, pool enclosures, and more. Safety is a main purpose of railings and glass railings are an unobtrusive way to provide safety where you need it, whether inside or outside.
Non-destructive testing: when safety & success must be absolutely assured
November 9, 2018
Radiation shielding is often required in industrial x-ray and non-destructive testing (NDT) applications. MarShield’s broad range of radiation shielding solutions can be used to protect sensitive components and the equipment operator from x-rays emitted by industrial x-ray systems – thus enabling effective and efficient radiation protection in a safe workplace environment.
Energy saving glazing options cut energy costs
October 31, 2018
Ancient forms of architectural glass were far too costly for everyday use and were reserved for the most important buildings in Rome. It wasn’t until the early 1950s that glass windows were widely available. We continue to push the evolution of glass windows today. Engineers are now exploring how energy saving glazing options can help cut costs on heating or air conditioning, as well as provide shade.
What industries should utilize bullet-resistant glass?
August 28, 2018
A big question that we often get from customers is what industries should utilize bullet-resistant glass? VP and GM, Rick Snelling, often asks his customers these questions to see if they fall into the category of needed bullet-resistant glass. Do you value your assets? Do you keep cash on site? Do you sell anything? Are you open during hours when most people are asleep? Are life-changing decisions made there?
2018 Trend: Custom Corporate Security Systems
August 20, 2018
“Since the start of the year, we’re finding that physical security for C-level executives is more of a focus,” notes Total Security Solutions CEO Jim Richards. “That’s nothing really new. The guy in the corner office has always had a little more to worry about when it comes to security. But at one time, corporate security like this was only top-of-mind for companies that were dealing with things that they knew people aren’t happy with. There was bad press, or actual threats. Now, we find that these customers are rarely responding to a specific threat. This is about staying ahead of the game.”
Design Spotlight: Controlling Summer Sun
August 3, 2018
Summer heat can be rough, and solar heat gain can be a building's enemy during the hottest parts of the year. From making building occupants uncomfortable to putting stresses on HVAC systems, it can be a detriment to a building's performance. Perhaps the best way to control solar heat gain is with a daylighting system that offers built-in light diffusion, allowing for sunlight to brighten a space while keeping hot-spots at bay. From translucent panel systems like our Guardian 275®, LightBasic™ and Clima-Tite™ systems to IlluminPC™ polycarbonate multi-wall systems, we have your translucent daylighting needs covered.
7 Fun ideas using glass to jazz up your outdoor patio or deck this summer
July 27, 2018
Learn 7 fun ideas using glass to jazz up your outdoor deck, patio or garden this summer.