A case study discussed later in the article will show how new fiberglass windows with high-performance insulating glass have replaced steel frames and single-pane glass at the University of New Mexico. Another will demonstrate how the use of aluminum-clad wood windows with blinds in-between the glass can increase daylight and air quality while minimizing cleaning and maintenance in a New Jersey school.

These examples and others will demonstrate the versatility of new products that can be used to replace even historic windows as part of projects going for high green rating certifications as well as historic tax credits.

Window replacement for the William C. McGinnis Middle School in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, used operable aluminum clad wood double-hung windows with high-performance low-E glass. These windows also included a between-the-glass window blind treatment as a method to enhance daylight and reduce allergens in classrooms. Photo courtesy of Pella Commercial

This thermoplastic roofing membrane was chosen as the best solution for cost and time saving for the roof renovation of the City of LA Police Department. Photo courtesy of CETCO

Self-Sealing Waterproofing

A new waterproofing product that has met even the most stringent review of the City of Los Angeles allows the contractor to retain large portions of adhered roof surfaces as part of a roofing replacement system that reduces waste removal. This welded thermal-plastic membrane is lightweight, easy to apply and can reduce the construction schedule by as much as 30 percent. According to Stacy Byrd, national products manager for the Building Materials Group of CETCO, “It has become a common trend for many building departments to encourage or require adherence to new green practices and principles using ASHRAE standards as a guideline for energy efficiency and performance. Manufacturers are increasing the performance values of new products to meet these guidelines.” This product with its hydrophilic, water-activated self-sealing membrane is engineered as a high-performance waterproofing system.

Lightweight Manufactured Stone

An authentic limestone appearance is achieved through a multi-step hand-finished process as shown in this close-up of a fireplace surround. Photo courtesy of Eldorado Stone

Manufactured stone products are being used in interior and exterior applications in many new and highly creative ways. The designer can take advantages of products that are lightweight, environmentally friendly and combine luxury with affordability to increase design opportunities in both residential and commercial settings. These products include a unique engineered limestone fireplace surround and the use of manufactured stone in outdoor cabinetry.

Fireplaces create a sense of home and place, but often are removed from a project budget because of additional costs for structure and installation. An innovative, engineered limestone fireplace surround allows the designer to re-insert the hearth into homes, multifamily housing, restaurants and hotel lobbies. An authentic limestone appearance is developed through a multi-step hand-finished process and the completed fireplace surround is lightweight and easily installed.

A new product line made of glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) cabinets featuring manufactured stone veneer provides opportunities to design outdoor rooms. Design professionals who want to use the natural look of stone but are limited by structural weight and budget restraints can create new outdoor living spaces in both residential and commercial settings with a combination of GFRC cabinets and lightweight manufactured stone. These products make it possible to transform backyard gardens or high-rise balconies with seating walls, barbecue islands, fireplaces, fire pits and kitchens with products that look and feel like stone. A lighter product requires less energy to ship, as well as allows installation even on high-rise apartment balconies. They are light enough so that the contractor can even bring them up to the site on an ordinary elevator.