SUCCESS WITH LARGE GLASS

Of Glass Magazine’s Top Glass Fabricators, 64% fabricated jumbo glass in 2020 and 38% of fenestration manufacturers plan to focus on larger windows and doors in 2021. (Window + Door Magazine’s Top Manufacturers Report)

This is because there is an increase in demand for all-glass design architecture in both indoor and outdoor applications. In both residential and commercial settings, all glass balconies and railings and/or large bi-folding or sliding doors can easily open up a space or transform indoor/outdoor square footage into another space to enjoy. Large glass installations are also being specified in modern shower enclosures, in both walk-in applications and in applications with sliding doors.

Specify New Generation Glazing Systems

New generation, high-quality glazing systems help ensure successful specifications and installations of large glass applications. Hardware plays a vital role in allowing glass panels to grow in scale. Occupants rely on this hardware and its effectiveness to operate large systems.

How does the industry manage larger glass sizes while also providing smaller, more discreet hardware that meets ever-changing building code requirements? Technology advancements in new generation door and wall glazing systems provide increased functionality while also being able to carry heavier loads, addressing acoustical concerns, and providing beautiful aesthetics.

When specifying the systems, look for hardware that Is minimalistic, but structurally sound and tested. You can also partner with a custom designer and develop a glazing system that is tailored to fit the project’s specific needs. Large bottom rollers are one discreet option that can be used in heavy sliding doors, and luxury shower door hinges can be used to carry higher loads. Involve a structural engineer for any systems that need additional testing.

Glaziers provide value to installations because they have the knowledge and experience to accommodate larger glass and to explore new opportunities.

Rethinking Installations

In many cases, installations need to be reconsidered with larger glass sizes. Glaziers, architects, and installers must consider hardware from the very beginning. Size and weight must be considered in all cases. For example, will the selected hardware support a 200-pound glass lite? Does a floor closer or hydraulic hinge also need to be considered?

In addition to hardware, large, heavy-duty suction cups are very important, especially when installing tempered glass that can weigh nearly 7 pounds per square foot. Size and weight help determine the right suction cups to use rather than relying on manpower and training to move large, heavy pieces. Professionals can select and take courses through The Door and Hardware Institute to ensure all personnel are trained.

Another alternative is to specify and install unitized, or prefabricated, systems and send them to a job site for easy installation. These installations often do not require additional onsite tools.

Ensuring Sustainability

As glass panels get larger, it’s only natural that glass will flex, which can have an impact on thermal properties and deflection. Energy efficiency and environmental concerns are still high priority when it comes to building codes, creating complexities for all-glass building designs. The National Glass Association’s 2020 update to the Heavy Glass Door Design Guide is a great resource, providing information on glass and hardware capabilities, and how they work together.

Preparing for the Future

As technology improves, we’ve seen glaziers consider thicker exterior glass to withstand wind loads. Adding framing or spacers can give the glass more rigidity and adding foam inside of thermal extrusions or a film on top of the glass can provide additional thermal support.

Testing has improved as well, including panic handles that can bend with a glass panel.

In future, we’ll also see more planning to include ADA compliance in both design and installation. Challenges will continue to arise and glass sizes continue to increase, however, glass industry partners keep innovating to ensure that glass remains a popular material in future building specifications.