When it comes to fire safety and security, windows and spacious glass entryways may seem like a clear egress point for disaster, and the truth is, they can be. Despite new installation and renovations that can withstand fires, massive explosions, and targeted attacks, these products have a major weakness: improper installation.
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The last few decades have witnessed an explosion of innovation in fire-rated glass, glazing, and framing materials. Today’s product range offers options that surpass traditional wired glass in fire performance and provides a variety of appearances that contributes to and enhances the overall design of fire-rated separation.
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An interesting dynamic in commercial building design is the dual need for compartmentation and transparency to help promote occupant well-being. Far too often, these demands conflict in areas with fire- and life-safety criteria.
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Creating light, spacious interiors in areas with fire- and life-safety requirements is a challenge because traditional fire-rated building materials, such as concrete and gypsum, restrict light transfer. Fire-rated glass can provide the same performance criteria as its opaque counterparts, with the added benefit of transparency.
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When using the Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) approach espoused by the U.S. National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), team members pool together their knowledge instead of parcelling it out to specialists who work in isolation from one another. Such integration allows building teams to more efficiently evaluate and manage the design for cost, quality-of-life, and long-term performance (among other factors) from technical planning throughout construction.
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