What's in and what’s out for building exteriors

January 30, 2007
COMMERCIAL

Last week, e-glass weekly provided a “what’s in, what’s out” list for shower enclosure. This week, we’re looking to building exteriors.

Our informal poll of contract glaziers found that almost anything green is in, as architects and owners are looking to improve energy efficiency.

Although many architects are also demanding more transparency with clear glass, our glaziers say reflective tints—particularly blue, green and bronze—are still popular items.

The list of what’s in trumps the list of what’s out—a good sign for glass companies!

To comment on this in and out list, send us an e-mail.

IN

OUT

Exterior glass

 

Clear glass with low-emissivity coatings

Ultra-reflective glass

Blue, bronze and green tinted glass

Granite spandrels

Green technology

 

Switchable glazing

 

Building-integrated photovoltaics

 

Storefronts

 

Plate glass storefronts

Stainless steel entrances

Frameless storefronts

Revolving doors

Frames and systems

 

Cable-supported wall systems

Painted aluminum finishes, particularly bright colors

Point-supported canopies

 

Hardware

 

Custom hardware for storefronts

 

Spider fittings

 

Other

 

Sunscreens

 

Composite metal panels as a cornice

 

Extended snap covers on curtain walls

 

Ceramic fire-rated glass

 

Curved curtain walls

 

Note: regional differences apply