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OCTOBER 2018 | 19 Curtain Wall & Window Wall PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NORAM ENTERPRISES Curtain wall and window wall experts embrace challenging new designs and standards by NATALIE BRUCKNER-MENCHELLI I n the ever-changing landscape of construction, the window wall and curtain wall sector are not immune to the effects of continually changing regula- tions, designs, and shortage of skilled workers. Tariffs imposed under the Trump administration, a focus on net zero buildings, and a demand for esthetically pleasing designs with more glass are just some of the challenges facing the sector right now – challenges that industry leaders are tackling with gusto. "Designs are getting more and more ambitious and creative, bigger and bolder, and that really forces you outside of your comfort zone. It helps drive a more collaborative approach with the stakeholders, which is another positive change in the industry. There are more discussions being had well in advance of ever setting foot on the jobsite," says Adam Brahim, regional manager at All Weather Windows. "There's also the conscious movement toward high-performance build- ings, but that will continue to be a constant that the industry tries to stay ahead of – energy efficiency is always a major factor." Ever innovative, All Weather Windows has recently introduced its very own window wall system that is being manufactured in Edmonton, and the industry response has been overwhelming, resulting in a number of exciting projects for the company. "Our most prominent project, currently ongoing, is the mixed-use West Block Glenora project in Edmonton. This will serve as a real showcase for All Weather Windows as it highlights the size and scale of projects that we're able to take on," says Brahim. "Not only are we installing our new window wall in the 16-floor resi- dential tower, but we're also installing curtain wall to the three-floor commercial podium, as well as the separate three-floor commercial building next to it." While there is current uncertainty over material costs including the potential for trade war, which makes construction costs volatile, Brahim is extremely positive about the months ahead. Having invested in new equipment and technology, new processes, personnel development, research and development, and new products, All Weather Windows will continue to meet the high expectations placed upon those in the sector. "This is a challenge we're more than welcoming as it can only make us better," says Brahim. "This is our 40th year in business and it feels like a brand new chapter going forward from here. We're truly a one-stop partner for customers." Jim Lebedovich, president and general manager at Phoenix Glass, says that in his opinion the biggest changes seen by the sector of late are the focus on overall thermal performance and ASHRAE 90.1 requirements, which have seen a substantial reduction in fenestration U-factors. To meet increasing demands for better performing window walls, Phoenix Glass, which has been in business for more than 25 years, has begun marketing its new high-performance thermal strut curtain wall for double and triple glazing called the Columbia Aluminum Products 600TS Series. As a testament to its accomplishments, Phoenix Glass recently received the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) Silver Founder's Award for the $5-million 1245 Harwood project in Vancouver, B.C. Project award categories recognize, among other things, trade contractors who deliver an entire project or a component of a project according to specific financial and non-financial criteria. The 1245 Harwood project is a seven-storey building that boasts elegant curved lines and walls of glass that wrap around the exterior. The one-of-a-kind design includes movable custom-perforated stainless steel panels on the sunny south-facing side of the building that provide subtle artistic textures, while allowing homeowners to control light, shade, and privacy. Lebedovich believes that while the industry currently faces the challenge of a lack of skilled glaziers, business will continue to boom. "Performance, quality, delivery, and workmanship will be paramount in future successes, especially with an anticipated downturn in market activity. Performing for your partners is more crucial than ever," he says. W O N D E R W A L L Vaughan Civic Centre Resource Library, Vaughan, ON.

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