Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/962985
36 | A PR IL 2018 Doors and transoms to complement a solid-slab door allow in the light while maintaining privacy. Choosing the right door and frame is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency; luckily new prod- uct options make that easier than ever. All Weather Windows' NAFS door-frame system comes with a drainable PVC sill as well as automotive-style weather stripping on all four sides – a design that's a leader in industry performance. "It offers better energy efficiency as well as air and water perfor- mance," says Nadiger. Other All Weather door-frame systems feature three mohair fin seals, which pro- vides better protection from the elements and long-lasting wear – another great option for a well- insulated home. "We're seeing a trend in good R-value, not only on the commercial side, but residential as well," says Reynolds. "People want a higher R-value product for the summer and winter. They're prioritizing keep- ing the heat in." It's why the Marvin Wood Ultimate Bi-Fold Door is available with a low 0.28 U-Factor rat- ing and other options that meet or exceed a LC-PG50 rating, and why Steel-Craft Door Products is releas- ing a new commercial door this year that embraces the market interest in good R-value. At two-inches thick and an R-value of 18.5, the SC Industrial door is likely to be popping up in projects across the country. Replacing glass panes in doors and windows is one of the best things you can do for energy efficiency, of course. Milgard custom makes replacement windows to easily swap out low-performance panes for new, high-performance ones. F I N I S H I N G T O U C H E S Mike Longhi, president for McGregor & Thompson Hardware, continues to see "design-driven" styles and finishes making their way into projects. "There was a time when door hardware upgrades consisted of specifying a curved lever in place of a ball knob," says Longhi. "Today, we see European mortise-style lever handles, integrated security and remote access control appearing in residential offerings." Doors aren't an afterthought anymore – they're a key part of the overall feel of a space. "Designers are taking them into account right from square one," says Longhi. "They can enhance or complement the resi- dential package. Components like doors, mouldings, baseboards, casing and hardware are being grouped and presented as a complete package today, rather than as separate elements." Though once hinges and locks were the height of door technology, smart-home options are upping the ante. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled access control security are becoming standard as manufactur- ers are providing integrated access control system – hardware and software – to enhance the security and simplicity of building management. And now, the introduction of "virtual assistants," such as Google Home, Apple HomePod and Alexa have further inte- grated our residences with access control options. "Consumers will now expect to verbally lock and con- trol their connected hardware," says Longhi. Commercial spaces are also seeing a spike in high-tech, electrified hardware solutions as design- ers continue to focus on accessibility, access control, and keyless entry. "In the past decade, the number of electrified openings on a typical commercial project has more than doubled," says Chad Trude, EHC, tech- nical director for Trillium Architectural Products. "Wireless access control, smart cards, and intelligent locking systems are increasing the reach of a build- ing's security systems and changing how end-users interact with openings." Third-party systems can be helpful add-ons, but smart home features are increasingly being integrated right into doors and hardware with developments like Marvin's Lock Status Sensor. The completely concealed, fully-integrated solution is factory-prepped and ready for wireless or wired con- nection on a variety of home security systems, with no unsightly plastic covers or visible components to interfere with esthetics or performance. "Being com- pletely concealed, homeowners get peace of mind along with their preferred design style," says Hanson. High-tech options, endless design choices, and innovative energy-saving developments: if you're in the market for a door right now, possibilities are end- less, and endlessly impressive. A European mortise-style lever handles by McGregor & Thompson Hardware.