Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/354800
it. The hybrid material combines the high stability and torsion stiffness of fibreglass, but doesn't require any steel reinforcement for most sizes. Cascadia Windows and Doors has done a lot of work in colder climates – as far away as Nunavut's Baffin Island – so it has a lot of expertise maximizing ther- mal efficiency. "Low coefficient of thermal expansion and contraction is critical because there are so many large temperature swings in those climatic regions. Our fibreglass windows are therefore very durable and perform well thermally," says Mike Battistel, VP of Cascadia. The windows are also Living Building Chal- lenge-Declared Red List Free products, devoid of toxic materials – they are the only declared Red List Free windows in the world. "People are becoming more conscious of the implications of using materials that are not durable or good to the environment," says Bat- tistel. "We're seeing a lot of developers and purchas- ers selecting products that are more environmentally friendly now." Modern hardware offers easy operation and improved maintenance, and the windows are offered with a complete line of thermal sub-frames, architec- tural sills and mullions to offer flexibility for a variety of applications, from educational institutions to hospi- tal buildings, and are available as projected, casement or fixed windows. Multi-family housing requires ther- mally innovative products, and EFCO's CH32 single- and double-hung tilt windows combine superior thermal U-factors with commercial grade performance to meet the high standards and specifications of today's mid- rise building envelope requirements. The walls aren't the only place you'll find windows. Skylights have long been a way of allowing a little extra daylight into a room, and now more than ever, architects and homeowners are searching out rooftop options. "Architects want to create a ceiling-scape," explains Russell Ibbotson, building industry consul- tant for Velux Canada Inc. "They're being more creative with newly designed projects and infill projects. As we build tighter communities, they've got to come up with alternatives to vertical windows." Velux's sun tunnel is particularly popular for creative projects. The tubular daylighting device – outfitted with plenty of energy saving features in line with the new Ontario Building Code – con- nects the roof to the ceiling with a highly reflective aluminum tube to make the daylight streaming in even brighter. Ibbotson also notes a resurgence in natural ventilation. Velux offers skylights that operate via touch screen remote control to open and allow fresh air to circulate into the home; a built-in rain sensor closes the skylight when the weather takes a turn for the worst. With smart new product lines and advanced, energy-efficient design, today's windows are set to meet consumer demand with style and strength. n Photo: 350 Series window wall system, photo courtesy A1 Windows. 40/ AUGUST 2014 Residential Windows