GlassBuild America is approaching again. It's an opportunity to get the latest updates on industry trends, new tech, education, and generally join in a celebration of the glass industry in all its glory.
Before I get into this week, my thoughts are with everyone in Florida and those that were in the path of Hurricane Ian, including the home of the Daubmann family and their D3/MyArchitecturalGlass business. From what I hear, all is okay there with the plant, though they did have some damage. Obviously if anyone can rise above, it is that family and company. While I was overseas for glasstec, the latest Architectural Billings Index was released.
Construction and manufacturing, like team sports, benefit when employees work as a team. Working together towards a goal requires us to understand both our individual and collective perceptions and assumptions.
The newest version of LEED includes a Materials and Resources’ Building Product Disclosure and Optimization, which can add two points to a total score. Manufacturers can earn those two points through two different methods: using reporting compliance or providing compliant material ingredient optimization report.
After 4 years, glasstec was back and it was an interesting experience to say the least. The vibe overall was positive, people hungry for new equipment especially and also new technology/products.
Good chance this week to do an international “vibe” check as I’ll be in Germany at glasstec. I'm really curious to see how people are feeling about the industry. We also take a look at some industry milestones and an exciting opportunity for the glass industry that will be highlighted on HGTV this week.
It is anniversary time on my latest edition of the From the Fabricator podcast. First up is the duo of Lee Harrison and Ross Christie from Walker Glass, celebrating 80 years in business. Then on to the 100th anniversary of Reed Rubber Products and Clark Reed. That was a great chance for me to chat with someone new and learn about a very successful operation.
Glass has always been an ideal building solution owing to its broad applications, functionality, as well as the abundance of design options. Designing for durability, wellness, and ease of use places glass surface protection high on the list of value-add glass enhancements, satisfying the needs of a project both practically and visually.
This past week I had the opportunity to tour some incredible facilities and it really drove home the pure talent and drive we have in our industry. As you know, I love seeing different operations, I always learn something. This time it was a chance to see plants that were truly built from the ground up and in constant evolution mode.