Materials

This course will give attendees an overview of how standard architectural aluminum framing products offered in Division 8: Glass & Glazing can be a key element of a design team’s LEED strategy. Standard components offered in architectural aluminum framing products can be major drivers for potential points in three categories: Enery and Atmosphere; Materials and Resources and Indoor Environmental Quality.

Total building construction costs and LEED strategies do not need to work against each other. A cost effective LEED strategy can be achieved in part by gaining an understanding of the proper application of many standard components and how they are best utilized. For example, improvements in thermal technology, along with higher performing insulated glass units, will increase the thermal performance of glazed elevations and enhance energy optimization. Additionally, proper use of shading devices allows for expanded glass areas, resulting in greater views and harvesting of natural light. Shading of the glazed area permits the use of glass with higher visible light transmission while reducing solar heat gain. And today, commercial windows are offered with triple glazed insulated glass units along with baffles in the aluminum profiles’ cavities to prevent heat transfer through convection. This allows for leveraging Thermal Comfort and Enhanced Indoor Air Quality without sacrificing energy performance.

Keep in mind that when putting together an aggressive LEED strategy there is no need to pay for custom products. A proper understanding of the efficient application of standard products can position your project for the LEED certification process.