Commercial Fire-Rated Aluminum Glazing Systems
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the challenges of meeting both desired design elements and fire safety concerns.
- Define the fire-rating standards and testing protocol for commercial doors and windows.
- Describe the types of fire-rated aluminum glazing systems.
- Recognize how the systems can be used in real life designs.
- Identify points to consider when choosing a fire-rated glazing system.
Credits:
This course is approved as a Structured Course
This course can be self-reported to the AANB, as per their CE Guidelines
Approved for structured learning
Approved for Core Learning
This course can be self-reported to the NLAA
Course may qualify for Learning Hours with NWTAA
Course eligible for OAA Learning Hours
This course is approved as a core course
This course can be self-reported for Learning Units to the Architectural Institute of British Columbia
This course will help educate the architect about alternative fire-rated window, door, and vision or glass wall materials currently available in commercial construction. The course will illustrate how a group of specialty glazing systems is gaining increasing popularity by answering two important architectural design needs: the requirement to establish code mandated life safety in a building versus the need to provide transparency, daylighting, aesthetics, and overall value for occupants and building owners. At the convergence of these opposing building design requirements are fire-rated aluminum glazing systems – a technology that has evolved from100 years of experience with glass products for fire protection use.
The learning unit will summarize the history of this evolution and compare some of the different designs that are available to the architect today. It will also explore examples of how fire-rated aluminum glazing systems can be incorporated while addressing some of the common code considerations.
Photo courtesy of Woodruff-Brown Architectural Photography