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Category [ all | aama | green | industry | legislative updates | materials | products | southeast region | website quick tips | western region ]Review the most recent developments related to AAMA, our serviced industries, press releases and more. Select a title below to read the full article or filter the results by selecting a category above.
May 18, 2012
AAMA Sumer Conference to Feature Special Industry Presentations
The AAMA Summer Conference, to be held in Oak Brook, IL, June 10-13, will feature special presentations from experts on topics relevant to the fenestration industry. Topics include an overview and future outlook of the residential and commercial window and door industry by Keynote Speaker, Michael Collins with Jordan, Knauff & Co., a Q&A session regarding the Federal Trade Commission and a presentation regarding the NFRC 713 Independent Verification Program.May 17, 2012
Join AAMA on LinkedIn for Updates Related to the 2012 Summer Conference
AAMA is inviting you to participate in our LinkedIn discussions related to the 2012 Summer Conference, to be held in Oak Brook, IL, June 10-13. Discussions will be posted before, during and after the conference, and meeting attendees are encouraged to join the conversation on topics that include: Conference Keynote Speaker Michael Collins, updates from the Vinyl Institute, The FTC's "Green Guides," NFRC Independent Verification Program and more.May 16, 2012
California Poised to Issue 2013 Title 24 Building Efficiency Standards
The California Energy Commission is in the final stages of adopting changes to the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards contained in the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, Part 6 (also known as the California Energy Code). The revised standards were approved May 9, 2012 and are scheduled to take effect in January 2014.May 16, 2012
NFRC Independent Verification Program Nears Launch
True to the EPA initiative to employ market-based testing to verify continued compliance of ENERGY STAR®-rated products, the ENERGY STAR Windows, Doors and Skylights program has established new requirements for the sampling and verification testing of products as they are sold in the marketplace.May 15, 2012
BIM: An Accelerating Game Changer
"Building Information Modeling will change everything," said Dennis Neeley (SmartBIM), noting that "the change is becoming very evident [and] is happening at unprecedented speed." During his presentation at the AAMA Western Region 2012 Spring Meeting (April 10-11), Neeley shared his analysis of the rapidly evolving acceptance and use of BIM.May 15, 2012
The U.S. Economic Outlook
During the AAMA Western Region 2012 Spring Meeting, Dr. Esmael Adibi, Director of the A. Gary Anderson Center for Economic Research and Anderson Chair of Economic Analysis at Chapman University, provided an update on the U.S. economic outlook.May 15, 2012
NAFS-11 Changes Highlighted
AAMA Western Region members received an overview of the changes brought about by NAFS-11 (AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-11), courtesy of Kim Flanary (Milgard), Immediate Past President of the AAMA Western Region.May 7, 2012
AAMA and WDMA Release Fenestration Market Studies that Predict Industry Trends
AAMA and WDMA have jointly released the updated 2011/2012 Study of the U.S. Market for Windows, Doors and Skylights. This report delivers accurate and timely information on window, door, skylight and curtain wall market trends and product relationships for both residential and commercial construction. Historic data for 2006 through 2011 and forecast data for 2012 through 2015 are also included in the report. Forecasts are based on projections of construction activity as of March 2011.May 2, 2012
AAMA Revises Field Testing Requirements for Newly Installed Fenestration Products
AAMA 502-12, Voluntary Specification for Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products has been published by the AAMA. This updated specification establishes the requirements for field test specimens, apparatus, sampling, test procedures and test reports to be used in verifying the air infiltration resistance performance and water penetration resistance performance of newly installed fenestration products.April 30, 2012
Registration is Open for the 2012 Summer Conference
Registration is open for the AAMA Summer Conference, to be held in Oak Brook, IL, June 10-13. AAMA members can register online by June 4 to receive a $50 discount. The conference will feature updates on committees and pertinent industry topics, as well as a special presentation from keynote speaker Michael Collins on the residential and commercial window and door industry. AAMA Scholarship Program and Partner Program recipients will also be announced.April 30, 2012
Website Quick Tip: How to Update Company Records in Members Only
Each month, the AAMA e-News will feature Website Quick Tips that show web users how to navigate portions of the AAMA website, including Members Only. This month's Quick Tip features details on how to update company records in the Members Only portion of the AAMA website.April 30, 2012
More than 20 percent of public schools reported having unsatisfactory indoor air quality, according to the U.S. Department of Education. And the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that students in America miss approximately 14 million school days per year because of asthma.
Case Study: Fiberglass Windows Featured in Environmentally-Sustainable Schools
April 27, 2012
Several Task Groups Complete Work at Annual Conference; New Task Groups Formed
AAMA congratulates and thanks the several task groups and their members who finished work and disbanded at the 75th Annual Conference. Also during the Annual Conference, several new task groups were formed.April 27, 2012
AAMA Publishes Care and Handling Manual for Aluminum Products
AAMA CW-10-12, Care and Handling of Architectural Aluminum from Shop to Site has been published by AAMA. The document was updated from the 2004 version and covers care and handling of architectural aluminum products from mill to fabricator to job site through project completion.April 27, 2012
The regulations, entitled the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, went into effect March 15, 2012, for physical construction or alterations commencing on or after that date. Property owners across the country are now required to meet these expanded regulations for renovation or construction projects or risk ADA compliance lawsuits.
AAMA Seeks Code Modification for ADA Threshold Height
On July 26, 2010, the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), President Obama announced newly revised ADA regulations.The regulations, entitled the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, went into effect March 15, 2012, for physical construction or alterations commencing on or after that date. Property owners across the country are now required to meet these expanded regulations for renovation or construction projects or risk ADA compliance lawsuits.
April 27, 2012
Door Task Groups Near Completion on Industry Documents
At the 75th Annual Conference in Naples, FL, the Door Council and related task groups met to resolve ballot comments and discuss critical issues.April 27, 2012
AAMA's Western Region Commits to Education and Engagement
AAMA's Western Region Board has made a commitment to education and networking among industry professionals. At the Western Region 2012 Spring Meeting, held in Portland, OR, April 10-11, meeting attendees had the opportunity to hear from experts on industry topics, as well as take part in an immersive learning experience via a tour of the Cardinal IG Hood River Facility.April 25, 2012
AAMA's Fiberglass Material Council Launches New Web Page
AAMA's Fiberglass Material Council launched a new web page, developed by the FMC Marketing Committee, featuring new content and an updated page layout, as well as the addition of relevant information of interest to the fiberglass community and the fenestration industry as a whole.April 23, 2012
CPC Authorizes Tornado Mitigating Tab, Repeals Requirements to Successfully Test to NAFS-05
The Certification Policy Committee met during the AAMA 75th Annual Conference to discuss the AAMA Certification Program, including the addition of a tornado mitigating tab to the AAMA gold label, the repeal of the requirements to successfully test to NAFS-05 and other updates regarding certification testing.April 18, 2012
AAMA Releases Updated Specification for Anodized Aluminum
AAMA 611-12, Voluntary Specification for Anodized Architectural Aluminum has been published by the AAMA. AAMA 611-12 describes test procedures and requirements for high performance (Class I) and commercial (Class II) architectural quality aluminum oxide coatings applied to aluminum extrusions and panels for architectural products. The specification also covers anodized finishes produced in batch or continuous coil.April 2, 2012
AAMA Encourages Education during National Window Safety Week, April 1-7
AAMA, as a partner of the Window Safety Task Force, encourages everyone to recognize the importance of practicing window safety by designating one week each spring to promoting safety and education. National Window Safety Week, April 1-7, is used as a time to remind all households that open windows can be dangerous for young children who are not properly supervised.March 30, 2012
Second Public Review of Addendum to ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1-2011 Open until April 22
Addendum aa to ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1-2011, Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, is open for public comment until April 22, 2012.March 30, 2012
AAMA Launches Legislative LinkedIn Subgroup
AAMA members are now invited to join the LinkedIn subgroup, "AAMA Legislative and Regulatory Forum." This subgroup features legislative, regulatory and industry-related news and updates. Members are encouraged to start discussions, post comments and request additional information on topics of interest.March 30, 2012
Underwriters Laboratories Releases New Door Leaf Sustainability Document
Underwriters Laboratories recently released the document, UL 102, Standard for Sustainability for Door Leafs, which contains requirements to be used as a foundation for evaluating door leafs for sustainability.March 30, 2012
Vinyl Well-Positioned to Meet Tightening Thermal Criteria
Various codes and standards continue to evolve toward more stringent performance requirements, especially with regard to energy efficiency of the building envelope in general and fenestration products. In the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), there are several significant changes between the 2009 and 2012 editions that relate to fenestration products.March 30, 2012
Member Profile: WIC First Vice President, Chris Habegger
WIC First Vice President, Chris Habegger (Gaska Tape), describes some of his industry experiences and influences, as well as his involvement with AAMA, in this Member Profile.March 30, 2012
FenestrationMasters Includes Basics of Wall Interface Components and Their Installation
AAMA's new FenestrationMasters™ training program for industry professionals is targeted toward technical managers at manufacturing companies, manufacturer sales and customer service personnel, distributors, dealers and installers. Courses are configured for two training levels: FenestrationAssociate™ (provides overviews of the material), and FenestrationMasters™ (provides in-depth details). The foundation for the coursework is consensus-based AAMA standards.March 30, 2012
Website Quick Tips: Navigating MyList in Members Only
Each month, the AAMA e-News will feature Website Quick Tips that will show web users how to navigate portions of the AAMA website, including Members Only. This month's topic is the use of the "MyList" feature within the Members Only portion of the AAMA website.March 30, 2012
Member Profile: VMC First Vice President, Kevin Seiling
VMC First Vice President, Kevin Seiling (VEKA) describes some of his industry experiences and influences, as well as his involvement with AAMA, in this Member Profile.March 29, 2012
The High Performance Windows Volume Purchase Program Announces Phase II Changes
The High Performance WVP Program Team is announcing big changes to the market transformation effort, following a two hour stakeholder strategy session on February 2. The strategy session, held via webinar and hosted by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, welcomed nearly 50 participants from window manufacturers, non-profit organizations, Federal agencies and members of the WVP team itself.March 29, 2012
Regulatory Affairs Committee Discusses Legislative and Industry Updates at 75th Annual Conference
At AAMA's 75th Annual Conference, Regulatory Affairs Committee members met to address EPA issues, including recommendations for the ENERGY STAR® 6.0 framework document and LRRP rule; as well as important federal legislation and industry updates.March 27, 2012
AAMA Welcomes New Member Companies
During the first quarter of 2012, four companies have joined AAMA as first-time members. We're proud to welcome these companies into our membership and invite you to learn more about them by visiting their websites.March 26, 2012
Only 48 hours after a tornado outbreak devastated parts of the South and Midwest, another storm was again closing in, and Decker's Indiana home lay right in its path. A tornado had already been spotted in the area, so Decker and her children quickly made their way to the basement.
New Window Standard Tackles Tornadoes
Stephanie Decker always knew it was her duty as a mom to protect her two children from danger, but she didn't know that a deadly storm would soon put both her and her children's lives at risk.Only 48 hours after a tornado outbreak devastated parts of the South and Midwest, another storm was again closing in, and Decker's Indiana home lay right in its path. A tornado had already been spotted in the area, so Decker and her children quickly made their way to the basement.
March 23, 2012
Thank You to Our 75th Annual Conference Sponsors
AAMA would like to thank the members who sponsored the 75th Annual Conference held in Naples, FL, February 26-29.March 23, 2012
AAMA's Vinyl Material Council Publishes Sustainability White Paper
AAMA's Vinyl Material Council has released a new white paper on sustainability entitled Sustainable Vinyl: One material, virtually endless possibilities. The overall goals of the paper are to dispel myths and confirm truths about vinyl as a sustainable material, as well as outline the material's durability and sustainability.March 20, 2012
Deadline Extended: Action Needed to Stop Adoption of LEED 2012
USGBC is striking a major blow against all vinyl building products used in commercial buildings by attaching an avoidance credit to its use within the revised draft of LEED® 2012. Submit comments by March 27 (read article for full details on submitting your comments) and copy your Congress representatives. Locate your representatives through our search widget.March 20, 2012
AAMA Requests Openness and Transparency in Regulatory Process
AAMA is recommending timely and significant government intervention to promote openness and transparency in the regulatory process by requiring early disclosure of proposed agency settlement agreements and consent decrees. AAMA recently sent a letter to Chairman Lamar Smith and Ranking Member John Conyers, Jr. of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee requesting their approval of the Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act of 2012 (H.R. 3862).March 15, 2012
AAMA Scholarship Program, Partner Program Accepting Applications through April 1
The application deadline for the AAMA Scholarship Program and Partner Program is approaching. Applications will be accepted through April 1 and must be post-marked by this date in order to qualify for any of the available awards.March 14, 2012
AAMA was awarded the 2011 Fenestration Humanitarian Award by World Vision at the AAMA 75th Annual Conference held in Naples, FL, February 26-29. AAMA was honored for their investment in World Vision and commitment to make a transformational difference across the U.S.
AAMA Receives World Vision Fenestration Humanitarian Award
March 12, 2012
ENERGY STAR Windows, Doors and Skylights Releases EPA Comment Response Summary
The EPA announced the release of responses to comments for the ENERGY STAR® Windows, Doors and Skylights Version 6.0 Product Specification Framework Document.March 5, 2012
AAMA Provides Information for Legislation to Restore Opt-Out Provision in LRRP Regulations
The Lead Exposure Reduction Amendments Act of 2012 (S2148), introduced by Senator James Inhofe (R-OK), seeks to restore the "Opt-Out" provision removed from the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (LRRP) rule in April, 2010. This legislation has been directed to the Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), on which Inhofe presides as Ranking Minority Member.February 29, 2012
HUD PowerSaver Program Backs Loans for Homeowners to Upgrade Windows, Skylights and Doors
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced on December 23, 2011, that mortgage finance company Fannie Mae will begin purchasing Federal Housing Administration (FHA) PowerSaver loans from Fannie Mae approved lenders.February 29, 2012
AAMA Celebrates 75 Years at Annual Conference
AAMA kicked off its 75th anniversary celebration during the Opening General Session of the 2012 Annual Conference. The conference, held in Naples, FL, features many special presentations, significant task group and committee meetings and the Annual Awards Banquet.February 29, 2012
Former Navy SEAL Eric Greitens Delivers Inspiring Speech at 75th Annual Conference
Keynote speaker Eric Greitens delivered his speech, The Heart and the Fist - Inspired Leadership Through Challenging Times, during AAMA's 75th Annual Conference in Naples, FL. The speech addressed subjects vitally important to today's companies, including leadership, social responsibility and the humanitarian ethic.February 29, 2012
AAMA Task Groups Make Progress on Green Certification Program
At AAMA's 75th Annual Conference in Naples, FL, the association's green-related task groups met to discuss AAMA's Green Product Certification Program and review ballot results.February 29, 2012
AAMA Scholarship Program, Partner Program Now Accepting Applications
The application process for the 2012-2013 AAMA Scholarship Program and Partner Program is now open. Applications will be received for both programs through April 1.February 29, 2012
The Columbia City neighborhood of urban Seattle, WA, is home to an innovative residential development with state-of-the-art green credentials. With residents just a short walk to high-speed transportation, farmer's markets, parks and a rich diversity of restaurants and shops, Columbia City Green is a mecca for Seattle urbanites seeking a green lifestyle.
Case Study: The Emerald City Gets Greener
February 29, 2012
AEC Helps Impose Antidumping Duties, Participates in Hearings for 2012 Int'l Green Construction Code
The Aluminum Extruders Council (AEC) continues to play an active role in advocating for aluminum in all aspects of the building and construction industry. Working together with partners at AAMA and other groups, AEC promotes the positive role of aluminum fenestration products in meeting advanced requirements for sustainability, energy performance, structural performance and durability.February 29, 2012
IGMA Holds 2012 Annual Conference; Reviews Important Industry Documents
At the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance's (IGMA) 2012 Annual Conference, held January 31-Feburary 4 in Tempe, AZ, many of IGMA's task groups and committees held meetings. These groups met to discuss industry issues and document updates.February 29, 2012
The ability to accurately test for weathering and meaningfully predict the durability of polymers and coatings intended for outdoor exposure is critical to product development and to certification. Outdoor weathering sites in Arizona, Florida and Ohio routinely expose samples to the conditions of their respective climates. But these tests take up to five years, and this can pose a problem due to today's fast-evolving technology and competitive markets.
Experts Dissect Challenges of Accelerated Weathering Alternatives during Annual Conference
February 29, 2012
AAMA Ratifies 2012 Board; Appoints Heppes as Affiliated Association Representative
At the AAMA 75th Annual Conference in Naples, FL, the AAMA membership ratified the 2012 Board of Directors slate, which included Jerry Heppes, Sr., CAE to fill the affiliated association seat formerly held by Phil James of the National Glass Association.February 29, 2012
Glass Material Council Creates Task Group to Update Two Existing Documents
At the 75th Annual Conference in Naples, FL, the Glass Material Council met to discuss critical issues.February 28, 2012
AAMA Recognizes Member Leadership during 75th Anniversary Celebration
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recognized the contributions and achievements of its members and congratulated award winners at the 75th Annual Conference Awards Banquet held in Naples, FL. Award presenters noted the importance of these member contributions as they serve to further the industry as a whole.February 27, 2012
Eleven members of the American Architectural Manufacturing Association (AAMA) sponsored 250 World Vision SchoolTools backpacks, at a total cost of $5,500, to benefit at-risk Florida children. Backpacks were assembled with school supplies by members' spouses as a part of AAMA's 75th Annual Conference in Naples, FL.
AAMA Members Sponsor SchoolTools Backpacks for At-Risk Children
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 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
In the context of green construction, building owners, designers and standards developers look increasingly to daylighting to provide natural interior illumination while saving money on energy costs and reducing a building's impact on the environment.
Objectifying the Subjective: In Pursuit of Metrics for Daylighting
Lisa Heschong (Heschong Mahone Group) presented a roadmap for the development of daylighting performance metrics to the NRFC in November 2010. The following is a summary of her presentation and ensuing discussion.In the context of green construction, building owners, designers and standards developers look increasingly to daylighting to provide natural interior illumination while saving money on energy costs and reducing a building's impact on the environment.
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
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 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
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 29, 2011
AAMA e-News: Opening Thoughts from the President and CEO
In visiting with two vinyl extrusion members, VEKA and Chelsea Building Products, I was struck by their similarities and their different product diversifications in this tough economic market. At their core, both are incredibly active AAMA members that fully understand the value and importance of AAMA certification.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
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 21, 2011
Opening Thoughts from the Western Region Board
I’d like to thank everyone who participated in the AAMA Western Region Webinar on November 15, which proved to be an excellent vehicle for conveying the latest developments and fielding questions in two areas of major importance to our members: I-code referencing at the state level and marketing of green attributes to designers and specifiers.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
California Building Materials Manufacturer to Pay $1.4 million to Settle Clean Air Act Violations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that CalPortland Company (CPC), a major producer of Portland cement and building materials in the United States, has agreed to pay a $1.425 million penalty to resolve alleged violations of the Clean Air Act at its cement plant in Mojave, Calif.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
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 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 7, 2011
Opening Thoughts from the Southeast Region Board of Directors
The timing and location for the AAMA Southeast Region Fall Meeting (October 17-18 in Miami) could not have been better, given all of the pending industry changes – especially the adoption of ASCE 7-10 by the Florida Building Code. In addition to the venue, I was pleased to see the quality of the attendance – given the pace and importance of developments. In fact, the Southeast Region Technical Committee agreed to add standing agenda items to monitor IBHS, Miami-Dade requirements and ASCE 7-10.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 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 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
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 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 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
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
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
Australia Green Building Council Revises its Green Star Program
Back in 2002, the GBCA launched as a national, not-for-profit organization committed to developing a sustainable industry for Australia by encouraging the adoption of green building practices. Last year the GBCA, often thought of as Australia’s equivalent of the USGBC converted an anti-polyvinyl chloride (PVC) credit into a campaign for the responsible use of PVC. In April 2010, Green Star reversed their anti-PVC credit and created a two-point credit to encourage the responsible usage of PVC.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.January 1, 2010
Upclose with Richard Walker - Profiling AAMA's Efforts in the Southeast
AAMA technical staff addresses dozens of Florida-market related questions each week to help manufacturers navigate the Florida Product Approval System.January 1, 2010
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