Frequently Asked Questions

  • If I am building a hospital how does the 2014 5th edition code changes affect my building?

    With the code change, hospitals are classified as a Risk Category IV building which requires missile level E hurricane protection. Also many other Essential Facilities fall into this category including Fire Stations, Police Stations, and some utilities.

  • What is the difference in regular hurricane impact and missile level E?

    Regular impact is called missile level D which consist of a 9lb. 2” x 4” shot form an air cannon at 50 ft. per second. The protocol to test for missile level E is to shoot a 9lb. 2” x 4” at 80 ft. per second for the glass to withstand this impact requires a double laminated inter layer which is more expensive.

  • How has the new energy code affected the glass in a building?

    The new energy code has a prescriptive value for the fixed glass and framing; it is now required to have an overall U-value of .50 and a solar heat gain co-efficient of .25. To achieve this it is required to use an insulated glass with a low E coating.

  • Can you give me a square footage price for a storefront opening?

    No, at least not an accurate price. An accurate price depends on the layout of the storefront in the opening, whether it has horizontal or vertical mullions, whether it has doors and how many. It also depends on the type and tint of the glass and the finish of the aluminum framing.

  • Can you “add” a Low-E coating onto an existing window or glass?

    No, you can not. The Low-E coating is applied during the manufacturing process.

  • How much does Low-E Glass Cost?

    It may be free, if you consider the energy savings received from the Low-E coated glass, the energy efficiency can pay for the initial cost of the Low-E coating in a short period of time.

  • Is there a LEED credit for glass?

    No, not glass, but there is for Aluminum

  • Why does impact curtainwall need to be used in lieu of using standard impact storefront?

    Curtainwall needs to be used in applications over 10 feet tall or more than 2 stories.

  • What are your lead times?

    Lead Times are determined upon which system is used and that systems lead times at the date of order.

  • Why are there limitations on the height and width and overall size of glass for certain applications?

    The limitations depend on what the product was tested with and sizing. Each product is tested to a maximum size in width and height.

  • What is the difference between Large Missile and Small Missile Impact Glass?

    Large missile is 0 – 30 feet above grade and the inner layer is thicker it is a .090, small missile is above 30 feet and a .060 inner layer.