Frameworks for Success
Why window and door frame materials matter
Sponsored by Marvin
“The eyes are the windows to the soul...” So conversely windows reveal the soul of the Architect’s design…
Most Architects know that the successful integration of windows into their designs is often critical to its success. There are dozens of decisions the Architect needs to make to include a window or door into the design of a building and perhaps none is more important than the selection of the frame material. With many options to choose from the selected frame material will set the quality standard for the decisions to follow including size, operation type, finishes, hardware and glazing.
This presentation introduces design professionals to the full scope of performance considerations that influence how windows and doors function in custom residential buildings. While aesthetic decisions such as sightlines, hardware, and finishes remain important, long-term performance depends on understanding how these systems respond to environmental conditions, glazing choices, acoustic demands, structural strategies, and installation methods. Learners will explore climate-driven challenges, glazing performance, sound control principles, and the implications of factory-mulled versus field-mulled assemblies. By broadening the conversation beyond appearance, this course helps architects specify window and door solutions that improve building durability, occupant comfort, and overall resilience.
Photo courtesy of Marvin
Marvin is a fourth-generation family-owned and led business, headquartered in Warroad, Minn., with more than 7,000 employees across 16 cities in North America. The Marvin portfolio of products for builders, architects and homeowners is designed to provide exceptional solutions for any project with a focus on creating better ways of living. Marvin products are distributed nationally through a network of independent dealers. Visit Marvin.com to learn more.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Identify and recognize the characteristics of materials for window and door frames of all types.
- Investigate the design potential and innovative opportunities to select window and door frame materials that meet the project’s design goals from an aesthetic, structural, and energy efficiency point of view.
- Assess the functional contributions of elements and systems for residential and low-rise buildings as they contribute to green and sustainable design.
- Examine how to specify and evaluate window and door frame systems in a variety of green and conventional buildings and formulate appropriate selections related to specific applications.
