NEWS — AAMA
Category [ all | aama | industry | legislative updates | materials | products | southeast region | western region ]January 31, 2012
Skylight/Sloped Glazing Council Updates Documents, Discusses Codes and Creates Course
The AAMA Skylight/Sloped Glazing Council is currently working on several document updates, as well as reviewing and commenting on an ASTM human impact document. AAMA is promoting daylighting through codes and working proactively to introduce provisions for natural daylighting into green and energy codes. The Skylight NAFS Task Group is reviewing and commenting on its course in order for a conference call tobe scheduled to discuss all member comments.January 31, 2012
Six Members Join AAMA Virtual Library
Interest in the AAMA Virtual Library continues to grow. Six companies have already taken advantage of this program, and many others requested more information when given the opportunity to participate as part of their membership renewal.January 31, 2012
NAFS Committee to Review Survey Results and Discuss Future Activities
On Wednesday, February 29, the AAMA NAFS Committee, chaired by Ray Garries (JELD-WEN) and Steve Fronek (Apogee), will be reviewing results of the member survey conducted to seek broad-based input on goals and methods for the update and maintenance of our flagship standard: AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440, the North American Fenestration Standard, or NAFS.January 31, 2012
Printed Copies of NAFS-11 Exclusively Available Through AAMA
AAMA is now exclusively offering printed copies of the 2011 edition of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440, NAFS - North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for windows, doors, and skylights (NAFS-11), available for purchase through the AAMA online Publication Store.January 31, 2012
Case Study: Pre-Blended Compound Offers Easy On-Ramp to WPC Production
According to recent market studies, wood-polymer composites (WPCs) have experienced phenomenal growth over the past decade, and double digit growth continues as more markets recognize the advantages of a WPC-based product. Combining wood and plastic into a different material addresses environmental concerns, such as deforestation and sustainability, but also provides an aesthetically pleasing, low maintenance and cost-effective alternative.January 31, 2012
AAMA Staff Promotions to Better Serve Our Membership
As we kick off the New Year, AAMA is pleased to announce staff promotions over the last year for Andrea Rhodes, Technical Operations Supervisor, and Florica Vlad, Senior Coordinator, Committee Meetings. Both promotions will enable our staff to better serve AAMA's members in 2012 and beyond.January 31, 2012
Document Development Continues for Wood and Cellulosic Composite Materials
During the AAMA Fall Conference, the WCCMC 309, 311, 312 Review Task Group discussed drafts and voted to add CARB statement to all three specifications. Task Group Chair, Wally Kesler (Valspar) will schedule a conference call for the group to meet and discuss necessary edits. For AAMA 312, a change will be made from QUVA 340 testing to XENON Arc Testing in the weathering section of the document to coincide with the requirements in NAFS-11.January 30, 2012
AAMA Announces 2012 Schedule of Events; Residential Green Certification Nears Completion
American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) will host its 75th Annual Conference for fenestration industry leaders and decision makers, February 26-29, at the Naples Grande Hotel (Waldorf Astoria) in Naples, FL. The highlight of this year's event is the celebration of AAMA's 75th anniversary.January 30, 2012
Celebrating 75 Years of Evolution and Excellence
During the upcoming Annual Conference, AAMA will be celebrating its 75th anniversary. The association has grown and advanced since its inception in 1936, and we’re proud of our heritage. Therefore, we have organized a timeline to detail our historical beginnings and progress through today.January 27, 2012
Fenestration Codes and Trends with AAMA Board Member, Mike Turner, YKK AP America
Commercial Conversation is a series of podcasts from the editors of Commercial Building Products magazine. A recent podcast was held with AAMA Board Member Mike Turner, Vice President of Marketing at YKK AP America, Austell, GA. Turner is also the Task Group Chairman for BIM Initiatives at AAMA, a member of the AAMA Codes and Regulatory Affairs Committee and a member of the International Code Council (ICC).January 23, 2012
With tornado incidents on the rise, a new generation of heavy commercial aluminum windows and doors offers a higher degree of protection from wind damage. The 164 tornado-rated windows in the Pinellas County Emergency Response and Control Center achieve a once-unobtainable level of protection from extreme velocity storms approaching 200 mph.
Case Study: Emergency Response and Control Center Equipped with Tornado-Resistant Fenestration
January 2, 2012
AAMA Certification to NAFS-11, Phase-out of AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2-97
With the recent publication of NAFS 2011, the AAMA Certification Policy Committee (CPC) has authorized certification to this document, effective immediately. As a reminder, the phase-out of AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2-97 begins in just two months, as directed by the CPC and announced in February of 2008.January 2, 2012
Fiberglass Clears Commercial Hurdles
Selecting a window system for use in new or renovated commercial and institutional buildings has typically gravitated to metal-framed or reinforced windows to provide the strength necessary to meet AAMA CW and AW performance classes. In the last five years, however, fiberglass window systems have rapidly gained attention and are being increasingly specified and installed more and more in retail facilities, offices, schools, colleges, condominiums, apartments and many other buildings.January 2, 2012
AAMA Celebrates 75 Years, Opens Registration for National Conference
Registration for the AAMA 75th Annual Conference is now open. AAMA members may register online and save $50. Highlights from the upcoming event include the 75th Annual Awards Banquet, keynote speaker, green product certification, codes and regulatory affairs and alternative accelerated weathering testing.December 28, 2011
AAMA Welcomes Two Manufacturers as New Members
In the fourth quarter of 2011, two window and door manufacturers have become AAMA members. We’re proud to welcome these companies into our membership and invite you to learn more about them by visiting their websites.December 27, 2011
Top 10 AAMA News Articles of 2011
The end of each calendar year gives us a chance to reflect back on the trends and top news stories of the past year. The top AAMA news stories give a look at important events and documents, as well as other industry impacts, in 2011.December 23, 2011
Member Profile: FMC First Vice President, Robb Plagemann
FMC First Vice President, Robert (Robb) Plagemann (Tecton Products), describes some of his industry experiences and influences, as well as his involvement with AAMA, in this inaugural Member Profile.December 22, 2011
BHMA 101
Hardware is a mission-critical component of operable fenestration. Recognizing this, a window or door intended for AAMA certification under the current North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS), i.e., AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440, must have its various hardware items tested for compliance with applicable AAMA 900-series standards.December 21, 2011
Fall Webinar Features Green Marketing Tips
George Middleton, AIA, CSI, LEED AP, gave an overview of how to meet the challenge of educating architects and specifiers on meeting today’s green challenges.December 21, 2011
Code Update Presented During Fall Webinar
On November 15, the AAMA Western Region sponsored a Fall Webinar, featuring topics covering code requirements and green attributes. AAMA’s code consultant, Julie Ruth, PE, provided an overview of the status of I-code referencing by Western Region states, as well as an overview of code requirements affecting windows, doors and skylights. Consultant George Middleton then provided some valuable tips on reaching architects and specifiers regarding the green characteristics of fenestration products.December 21, 2011
ENERGY STAR Tightens Requirements
Given the energy-saving benefits of high-performance fenestration and the positive influence it has on our industry, AAMA has joined others in urging a resumption of the tax credits that expired at the end of last year. These tax credits were, and future credits are likely to be, tied to performance levels dictated by the ENERGY STAR® program, which continues to tighten its requirements.December 20, 2011
Canadian Codes Updated, Effects on Fenestration Industry
Much is written about code development in the U.S., but little is often said about the building codes of our neighbor to the north. While their code change cycle is not as frequent as ours, new versions have recently been released and will be of interest to manufacturers selling across the border.December 20, 2011
AAMA Announces the Release of Revised Specifications for Secondary Storm Products
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has revised two specifications related to secondary storm products - AAMA 1002-11, Voluntary Specification for Secondary Storm Products for Windows and Sliding Glass Doors and AAMA 1102-11, Voluntary Specification for Side-Hinged Secondary Storm Doors.December 20, 2011
AAMA Honorary Member Lyon Evans Passes Away
AAMA Honorary Member Lyon D. Evans of Wausau, WI, passed away on December 8, at the age of 93.December 19, 2011
Applications for AAMA Scholarship Program Open January 1, Partner Program Available
The application process for the AAMA Scholarship Program and the Partner Program opens January 1, 2012.December 16, 2011
AAMA Corporate Membership Renewal Process Opens, Recruitment Incentive Program Added
The renewal process for AAMA Corporate Members is now open. AAMA Corporate Membership is available to businesses involved in the manufacture, sale or service of fenestration products and is renewed on an annual basis. In addition, AAMA is offering an incentive program to encourage members to recruit new manufacturers to the association.December 7, 2011
IBHS Research Center Paves the Way for Safer Buildings
On the second day of the Southeast Region Fall Meeting, members heard from Dr. Tim Reinhold of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) Research Center, an applied research and training facility on a 90-acre parcel of land in Chester County, SC, some 45 minutes south of the Charlotte airport. The facility was the venue for a tour by Southeast Region members at the 2011 Spring Meeting.December 7, 2011
Southeast Region Legislative and Building Code Developments
Dr. Timothy Reinhold of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) Research Center presented an update of Southeastern U.S. state legislative activities and building codes and standards development at the AAMA Southeast Region Fall Meeting.December 6, 2011
Energy Considerations for Windows
As the global community grows, the need for energy also increases. In a recent presentation at the AAMA Southeast Region Fall Meeting, Jeff Sonne, Senior Research Engineer from the Florida Solar Energy Center, discussed the approaching peak production of oil, new and innovative energy solutions and various developments in energy considerations for the future.December 4, 2011
AAMA Praises Obama for $4 Billion in Energy Upgrades and Congress for 3% Tax Repeal for Contractors
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and its members are praising President Obama’s announcement today committing nearly $4 billion in combined federal and private sector energy upgrades to buildings during the next two years. The White House states that these investments will save billions in energy costs and promote energy independence. According to independent estimates, it also will create tens of thousands of jobs in the hard-hit construction sector.November 30, 2011
AAMA Opens Scholarship Program for 2012
In 2012, the AAMA Scholarship Program will again offer children of employees of AAMA member companies the opportunity to obtain financial aid for higher education in pursuit of a degree in an engineering or technical field relating to the building products industry. The scholarship is a one-time award of $2,000. Applicants are judged on grade point average, college entrance exam scores and a 500-word essay.November 30, 2011
Membership Renewal Process to Begin in December
The renewal process for AAMA Corporate Members will be sent at the beginning of December, and the completed renewal forms are due by January 1, 2012. AAMA Corporate Membership is available to businesses involved in the manufacture, sale or service of fenestration products and is renewed on an annual basis.November 29, 2011
Wall Interface Council Activities Update
AAMA's Wall Interface Council met at the National Fall Conference to discuss several issues, including industry document updates. Visit the Wall Interface Council home page for more information.November 29, 2011
AAMA Requests Better Tax Incentives for Energy-efficient Fenestration Products
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) is recommending timely and significant government intervention to reduce severe construction industry unemployment. The association recently sent a letter to Chairman Dave Camp and members of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Ways and Means asking for effective tax incentives relating to energy-efficient fenestration products for homeowners.November 29, 2011
Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is believed to be the largest, most intact urban historic district in the United States. However, many of the once beautiful historic homes that line the streets of this neighborhood have fallen into disrepair. Families in this working class neighborhood often find that repairs and energy-efficient updates are too costly.
Case Study: Vinyl Windows Contribute to LEED Certification of Historic District
November 29, 2011
WIC Solicited for Expert Advice, Requests Quotes from Labs
The Western Wall and Ceiling Contractors Association (WWCCA) asked AAMA to review selected details for window installation in stucco, and whether or not a sill pan is needed in particular instances. WWCCA is writing a guide that intends to reference AAMA; as a result, they asked the Wall Interface Council to review their guide before it is published.November 29, 2011
ASTM Sustainability and VMC Environmental Stewardship Committees Seek Similar Goals
Despite intensive worldwide interest, sustainability has not achieved widespread implementation across mainstream markets. One reason is that mainstream adoption of sustainable development practices relies on the creation of consensus industry standards and there has been a lack of consensus on what standards to apply to “sustainable” products and projects.November 28, 2011
Latest North American Fenestration Standard Published
The 2011 edition of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440, NAFS — North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for windows, doors, and skylights (NAFS-11) has received final approval and is now available. This standard is the result of a multi-year effort by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and Window & Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA). The updated 2011 standard replaces the 2008 edition of the joint standard.October 31, 2011
Benefits associated with AAMA membership include access to AAMA's full technical resource center and enhanced member directory as well as reduced costs with preferred pricing on certification programs, performance standards and events.
Corporate Renewals and Membership Benefits Announced for 2012
AAMA Corporate renewal applications will be sent at the end of November. The deadline for submitting renewals is January 1, 2012, as the Corporate Membership year extends from January 1 through December 31.Benefits associated with AAMA membership include access to AAMA's full technical resource center and enhanced member directory as well as reduced costs with preferred pricing on certification programs, performance standards and events.
October 31, 2011
AAMA is Pleased to Welcome Five New Member Companies to the Association
During the third quarter of 2011, five companies joined AAMA as corporate members. As our organization continues to make an impact on the fenestration industry, we are proud to welcome new companies into our membership and to join in our collaborative efforts. We invite you to learn more about each organization and the work they do by visiting their websites.October 31, 2011
NAFS Survey Closes November 18
The AAMA NAFS Committee, co-chaired by Ray Garries (JELD-WEN) and Steve Fronek (Apogee), is seeking broad-based member input on goals and methods for update and maintenance of the flagship standard: AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440, the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS).October 31, 2011
As such, AAMA is offering complimentary registration for a future national conference for successfully recruiting a manufacturer as a new Category 1 National (Full) member.
AAMA Announces New Member Recruitment Incentive Program
Member recruitment is an on-going activity at AAMA, as part of an overarching goal to expand the force of volunteers, advance the objectives of the association and strengthen our voice and influence in legislative and regulatory arenas.As such, AAMA is offering complimentary registration for a future national conference for successfully recruiting a manufacturer as a new Category 1 National (Full) member.
October 31, 2011
NAFS 2011 Nears Completion; Expected to be Released by December 1
The Joint Document Management Group (JDMG) continues the process of reviewing AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-08 NAFS-North American Standard/Specification for windows, doors, and skylights for the next edition to be published in 2011.October 31, 2011
AAMA Improves Ballot Communication Process
AAMA is pleased to announce a technical change with its system of balloting. Previously, ballots were distributed through AAMA staff email addresses. Moving forward, all AAMA ballots will be distributed through a new email address: AAMAballots@aamanet.org.October 31, 2011
Bill Gorman Named AAMA Honorary Member after 26 Years of Service
At the National Fall Conference in Palm Springs, CA, the AAMA Board of Directors unanimously approved a motion to award Bill Gorman, an engineer at Milgard who continued to represent his company with his active participation in AAMA and NFRC following his retirement in 2001, with Honorary Membership status with AAMA, as nominated by Ray Garries (JELD-WEN).October 31, 2011
Window, Door, Skylight Tax Credit Report Indicates Importance of Energy Efficiency
It is apparent that in the past few years, energy-efficient products are becoming more prominent in the eyes of manufacturers and thus readily available to consumers. As government continues to focus its efforts on adopting green building codes, high performance standards and energy and environmental design, it should come as no surprise that homeowners are similarly investing in energy-efficient products and equipment.October 28, 2011
Glass Material Council Creates Task Group to Update Two Existing Documents
At the AAMA National Fall Conference, held in Palm Desert, CA, the Glass Material Council met to discuss critical issues.October 28, 2011
Aluminum Material Council Addresses AW and CW Class Products and Active Ballots
At the AAMA National Fall Conference held in Palm Desert, CA, many of the Aluminum Material Council task groups and committees held meetings to address current and future projects and their goals moving forward. Various task groups also examined documents, reviewed ballot responses and discussed other Council activities in order to further their development process.September 30, 2011
Development Continues on Organic Coatings Document for Wood and Cellulosic Composite Profiles
The WCCMC Finishes Committee [Chair Paul Adams (Deceuninck N. A.)] has been developing a new specification that describes test procedures and performance requirements for organic coatings applied to AAMA-certified wood and cellulosic composite substrates.September 30, 2011
AAMA Announces Publication of Exterior Stain Document and Related Scope Change
AAMA 633-11, Voluntary Specification, Performance Requirements and Test Procedures for Exterior Stain Finishes on Wood, Cellulosic Composites and Fiber Reinforced Thermoset Window and Door Components, has been published and is available for purchase from the AAMA online Publication Store. The specification describes test procedures and performance requirements for exterior stain finishes applied to AAMA-certified wood, cellulosic composite and fiber reinforced thermoset components.September 28, 2011
Regulatory Affairs Committee Addresses Legislative and EPA Issues at National Fall Conference
At the Regulatory Affairs Committee meeting during the AAMA National Fall Conference, Rich Walker, AAMA President and CEO, reviewed NAHB data on energy-efficient tax credits claimed by homeowners in 2009; EPA regulations including LRRP, boiler MACT and ENERGY STAR® Phase Two window criteria; and other federal legislative issues. Also included in his agenda was a discussion of stringent regulatory measures intended for commercial buildings.September 28, 2011
Significant Progress Made on Green and Sustainability Specification Development at Fall Conference
At AAMA's National Fall Conference in Palm Desert, CA, the association's green-related task groups met to discuss AAMA's green product certification programs. The conference marked the first in-person meeting of the reactivated Green and Sustainability Procedural Guide Task Group, as well as the successful completion of the Product Group ballot moving the specification closer to publication.September 27, 2011
NAFS Committee Reviews 5th Ballot at AAMA Fall Conference
At AAMA's 2011 National Fall Conference, the NAFS (North American Fenestration Standard) Committee met on Monday, September 26 to review the outcome of the fifth ballot of the 2011 draft of the AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 NAFS-North American Standard/Specifications for windows, doors, and skylights for the next edition, which will be published later this year. Co-chairs Ray Garries (JELD-WEN) and Steve Fronek (Apogee) directed the overall meeting.September 27, 2011
Assessment of Accelerated Weathering Tests at AAMA National Fall Conference Session
The AAMA Alternate Accelerated Weathering Task Group met on Tuesday, September 27 at the Fall Conference in which Kurt Wood (Arkema) presented an update to ASTM’s D01.53 ten-year exposure study. As an ASTM-NCAA joint project, the speaker discussed how both associations leveraged their resources to study the effects of weathering from five to ten years, and the overall focus was aimed at discussing the test methodology, statistical approach utilized and reviewing the final results.September 26, 2011
U.S. Economic Outlook Update Given at AAMA’s National Fall Conference
During the 2011 AAMA National Fall Conference, Dr. Esmael Adibi provided an update on U.S. Economic Outlook and how the European debt crisis, the turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa and the federal and state budget deficits are negatively impacting the weak economic market we are experiencing.September 26, 2011
AAMA Offers Electronic Technical Documents with Launch of Virtual Library
AAMA announced the launch of the AAMA Virtual Library (AVL) during its National Fall Conference in Palm Desert, CA, on Monday, September 26. This new program offers a system for members to purchase annual licenses in order to offer electronic versions of AAMA publications in an effort to make AAMA’s technical information resources more readily available to their employees.September 23, 2011
AAMA, NPEA and NSA Release Joint Specification Establishing Performance Requirements for Sunrooms
An updated specification establishing minimum performance requirements for sunrooms has been jointly released by AAMA, NPEA and NSA. The updated specification references the 2009 International Residential and Energy Conservation Codes, and contains a number of other necessary updates. The new specification replaces the original one that has been in use since it was released by the three organizations in 2002.September 2, 2011
AAMA and Industry Organizations Release Joint Bulletin of ASCE/SEI 7-10
A new technical bulletin relating ASCE/SEI 7-10 design wind loads to fenestration product ratings has been jointly endorsed by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, Window and Door Manufacturers Association, Fenestration Manufacturers Association and the Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association. The bulletin, available free for download, summarizes information about current standards and codes related to the design of buildings and use of fenestration assemblies.August 30, 2011
Development Continues on Fiberglass Material Council Website Content
The Fiberglass Material Council has been working for quite some time now on developing online material and identifying metatags for their web pages. By using keywords that are associated with fiberglass or those that are sought by target audiences, such as architects, designers, builders, contractors and homeowners, metatags are written to improve search engine optimization (SEO) that will help drive those interested in fiberglass fenestration products to AAMA’s site.August 30, 2011
Fall Conference to Feature U.S. Economic Outlook, Monitoring of State and National Legislation
Registration is open for AAMA’s 2011 Fall Conference taking place September 25 - 28 in Palm Desert, CA. The event will feature a presentation on the U.S. economic outlook, updates on various AAMA programs, as well as a range of on educational sessions.August 30, 2011
NAFS-2011 Draft #12 Review Process Continues
At the AAMA Fall Conference, the NAFS Committee and Joint Document Management Group Update will meet at 5:00 p.m. to discuss AAMA’s 5th ballot of NAFS-2011. Comments will be resolved and the remaining timeline including the anticipated publication and code adoption will be discussed.August 30, 2011
Design Pressure and Performance Grade Distinguished in AAMA Certification Program Bulletin
The terms Design Pressure and Performance Grade have in the past been loosely used by some in the field. The specific definitions of these terms have been carefully confirmed with the publication of AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-08, NAFS – North American Fenestration Standard/ Specification for windows, doors, and skylights.August 26, 2011
The AVL will allow members to purchase annual licenses to offer electronic versions of AAMA publications for use by their employees. This program was created as an initiative of the association’s Strategic Plan in an effort to make AAMA’s technical information resources more readily available.
AAMA Virtual Library to Be Launched at Fall Conference
At the upcoming AAMA Fall Conference (September 25 – 28 in Palm Desert, CA), the AAMA Virtual Library (AVL) will be launched.The AVL will allow members to purchase annual licenses to offer electronic versions of AAMA publications for use by their employees. This program was created as an initiative of the association’s Strategic Plan in an effort to make AAMA’s technical information resources more readily available.
August 26, 2011
Glass Industry Organizations Join Together to Address Life Cycle Assessment
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association, Glass Association of North America, Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance and Window and Door Manufacturers Association have joined together to collectively address life cycle assessment of fenestration products. "LCA has become a critical component in clearly determining how environmentally friendly a product is by fully analyzing its effectiveness over its entire life cycle," says Rich Walker, President and CEO of AAMA.August 25, 2011
AAMA Announces Specifications for Non-Integral Door Bottom Weatherseals
AAMA 703-11, Voluntary Specifications for Non-Integral Door Bottom Weatherseals, has been published by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). This document establishes minimum performance requirements for sweep type non-integral door bottom weatherseals.August 24, 2011
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