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This Online Learning Seminar is available through a professional courtesy provided by:

Solar Innovations®

31 Roberts RoadPine Grove, PA 17963Tel: 570‐915‐1500Fax: 800‐618‐0743Toll‐Free: 800‐618‐0669Email: [email protected]: solarinnovations.com

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Operable Walls for Sustainable Design

©2016 Solar Innovations®. The material contained in this course was researched, assembled, and produced by Solar Innovations® and remains its property. “LEED” and related logo is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used by permission. The LEED® Rating System was authored by and is the property of the USGBC. Any portion of the Rating System appearing in this course is by permission of the USGBC. Questions or concerns about the content of this course should be directed to the program instructor. This multimedia product is the copyright of AEC Daily.

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Operable Walls for Sustainable Design

Solar Innovations®Architectural Glazing Systems31 Roberts RoadPine Grove, PA 17963

Operable wall systems integrate the indoors and outdoors and define interior spaces, providing flexibility and additional usablearea without increasing a building’s footprint. Occupants benefit from expansive daylighting and views as well as quick access to fresh air. This course describes the types of operable wall systems, how they contribute to sustainable design, and the various options and considerations for selecting the correct system.

To ensure the accuracy of this program material, this course is valid only when listed on AEC Daily’s Online Learning Center. Please click here to verify the status of this course. If the course is not displayed on the above page, it is no longer offered.

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The American Institute of Architects ∙ Course No. AEC955 ∙ This program qualifies for 1.0 LU/HSW Hour.

AEC Daily Corporation is a Registered Provider with The American Institute of Architects Continuing Education Systems (AIA/CES). Credit(s) earned on completion of this program will be reported to AIA/CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non‐AIA members are available upon request. This program is registered with AIA/CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. Questions related to specific materials, methods, and services will be addressed at the conclusion of this presentation.

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AEC Daily Corporation has met the standards and requirements of the Registered

Continuing Education Program. Credit earned on completion of this program will be

reported to RCEP at RCEP.net. A certificate of completion will be issued to each

participant. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be

an approval or endorsement by the RCEP.






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Purpose and Learning Objectives

Purpose: Operable wall systems integrate the indoors and outdoors and define interior spaces, providing flexibility and additional usable area without increasing a building’s footprint. Occupants benefit from expansive daylighting and views as well as quick access to fresh air. This course describes the types of operable wall systems, how they contribute to sustainable design, and the various options and considerations for selecting the correct system.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• define operable wall systems and their different types and characteristics• discuss the general sustainability benefits of operable glass walls and their potential LEED® credit contributions• list the customization options to enable a wall system to meet specific project needs including configuration,

thermal performance, solar control, sound mitigation, and ADA compliance, and • describe the design, performance, and sustainability benefits of operable glass walls in terms of a variety of

specific project types and case studies.






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How to Use This Online Learning Course

• To view this course, use the arrows at the bottom of each slide or the up and down arrow keys on your keyboard.

• To print or exit the course at any time, press the ESC key on your keyboard. This will minimize the full‐screen presentation and display the menu bar.

• Within this course is an exam password that you will be required to enter in order to proceed with the online examination. Please be sure to remember or write down this exam password so that you have it available for the test.

• To receive a certificate indicating course completion, refer to the instructions at the end of the course.

• For additional information and post‐seminar assistance, click on any of the logos and icons within a page or any of the links at the top of each page.






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Table of Contents

Introduction to Operable Glass Walls 7

Sustainability and Performance Considerations 16

Design Considerations 37

Applications and Case Studies 58

Summary and Resources 71






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Introduction to Operable Glass Walls



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What Are Operable Glass Walls?

Operable glass walls are systems that use multiple glass panels, usually glazed, that can be quickly opened or closed. Because they are offered in both insulated and noninsulated glass options, and thermally‐enhanced as well as nonthermal frames, operable glass walls are suitable for exterior or interior applications. Typically, the wider the panel of glass, the more economical the system is as a whole.

They are installed in openings that are framed to support the structural load of the building. Like any other doors or windows, they are not affected by the structural loads from above; their size is limited only by the size of the opening provided.






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Types: Folding

Operable glass wall types are defined by the way they function.

Folding operable glass walls (also known as bi‐fold or accordion‐style walls) consist of multiple panels that slide along a track to the left or right and stack to one side.

These walls can accommodate any number of panels, and can be configured as in‐folding or out‐folding walls to suit different applications. Swing doors can be integrated into the folding glass walls, allowing the user to easily enter and exit a space without operating all of the panels. When thermal performance is important, this type of operable wall is the best choice.






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Types: Stacking

Stacking operable glass walls are individual top‐hung panels that slide along one track and stack into a closet or predetermined remote location.

They are well‐suited for commercial or residential applications as either interior or exterior walls. A stacking wall provides great flexibility in that any operable panel can also serve as a door. An individual doorway can be opened without the requirement to open the entire unit.






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Types: Sliding

Sliding operable glass walls consist of one or multiple panels that slide along multiple tracks to the left or right, either behind a fixed panel or into a pocket.

These walls maximize transparency and are frequently used in stadium suites, balcony enclosures, interior operable partitions, and wind blocks. Their greatest advantage is that the wide, economical panels create seamless sightlines. Generally, it is more economical on the whole to select wider panels of glass. The aluminum profile captures the panel head and sill, while the vertical edges of the glass remain free.






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Types: Lift Sliding

Like sliding walls, lift sliding operable glass walls consist of one or multiple panels that slide to the left or right along a track, either behind a fixed panel or into a pocket. The difference is that the panels are lifted off the track to open or close. With a turn of the wrist, the user rotates the handle to remove pressure from the gaskets, then pushes or pulls the panels. Simply rotating the handle down reseals the door for security and thermal performance; air leakage performance is highest with this type of operable wall system. Wide panels offer the least operating resistance.

The wide panels with narrow stiles move with great ease in this system; depending on panel size, they may be opened with one hand and closed with just the push of a finger.






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Types: Clear Glass Wall

Clear glass walls create a seamless wall with uninterrupted views. A nonthermal design makes a great choice for interior room dividers, but exterior options are also available. Panels can be top‐hung stacking or bottom‐load sliding.

Recommended only for interior use or as a wind break, a glass‐to‐glass style has completely exposed glass edges with no vertical framing. In a glass‐with‐gasket style, the framing has gaskets attached to the vertical sides of each glass panel that touch when the wall is closed and help reduce sound, air, and water transmittance.






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Sustainable Design Benefits

The performance of the building envelope is extremely important in controlling the transfer of heat and cold and protecting the interior spaces from the elements. The level of protection is directly related to the amount of energy the building uses and the quality of the indoor environment. Any type of opening in the envelope contributes greatly to its success—or failure.

With openings and fenestrations getting larger in contemporary projects, their impact on the overall performance of a building becomes more pronounced. While large operable windows and glazed doors are desirable for the daylighting, ventilation, and flexibility of use they offer, their thermal, solar gain, and air/water tightness performance must not negate those benefits.

Operable glazed wall systems provide important performance and sustainability benefits in both the open and closed positions. They open our interior spaces to the exterior in unprecedented ways.






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Sustainable Design Benefits

Spatial flexibility: Operable wall systems bring great flexibility to the creation of indoor spaces and their connection to the outdoors, and impose fewer restrictions on the use of interior spaces. In many cases, the inclusion of exterior space reduces the required building footprint and allows buildings to be more efficient in utilizing the given space. The option to close off an otherwise open space with an insulated wall adds energy efficiency to the flexible use of space.

Daylighting: Operable glass walls offer seamless daylighting solutions not available with regular doors and windows. Combined with glazing that provides solar shading, glare control, and the redirection of light, operable glass walls increase the amount of daylight in the building and decrease its cooling loads.

Access to fresh air: By their sheer size, operable wall systems can offer instant access to the fresh outside air that would be virtually impossible to achieve with any combination of traditional openings and mechanical systems.

In the next section, we’ll look at some of the specific sustainability considerations when incorporating operable glass wall systems into a design, as well as the options available to ensure the system performs as desired.






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Sustainability and Performance Considerations



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Energy Efficiency

A number of factors have to be considered to ensure an operable glass wall contributes to the energy efficiency of a building. The easiest way to determine the energy efficiency of a product is to compare it to the other products in its group.

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a nonprofit organization that provides energy efficiency certification and labeling for windows, doors, and skylights, with ratings for U‐factor, solar heat gain coefficient, visible transmittance, air leakage, and condensation resistance.






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Energy Efficiency

U‐value or U‐factor (the inverse of R‐value) is the measure of different structural components’ ability to conduct heat. The U‐value of glass is measured by the number of BTUs that will pass through each square foot area, per degree of temperature difference, from one side of the glass to the other. The lower the U‐value, the greater the glass’s resistance to heat flow, and the higher the insulating value. Depending on climate, the U‐value of operable wall glazing may be an important consideration.






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Daylighting and Views

Numerous studies have found that daylighting and views improve occupant well‐being, satisfaction, and productivity. The design opportunities found through operable wall systems are unmatched: a complete wall can be opened up for uninterrupted views and flexible interior spaces, limited only by the imagination of the designer.

For occupants to fully benefit from expansive daylighting and views, careful attention must be paid to the potential for hotspots, glare, and solar heat gain when selecting an operable wall system.






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Solar Control

Solar control refers to the ability of the assembly to control and modify solar transmission through the glazed openings. The measure of the rate of solar heat flowing through a glazed assembly is called the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). SHGC is a measure between 0 and 1 of how well a window absorbs or reflects heat from the sun. The lower the coefficient, the better the window is at blocking the sun’s heat.

The range of values for operable wall systems in the industry is between 0.16 to 0.70. If better (lower) values are required due to the orientation of the opening or other local conditions, measures like additional glazing layers, tinted glazing, low‐e coatings, or shading devices can be considered.






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Glare and UV Control

Visible transmittance (VT) is the percentage of visible light striking the glass that penetrates to the interior, expressed as a number between 0 and 1. If excessive glare and UV control are a concern in an operable wall system, a self‐tinting glazing technology is available as an alternative to independent shading systems. Glazing is darkened gradually and dynamically when heated by direct sunlight. This approach is the most advanced, yet simplest, dynamic window technology available.

Self‐tinting glazing preserves the window’s view by reducing the need for shades, blinds, exterioroverhangs, and other light‐blocking devices. Building occupants enjoy more consistent, comfortable temperatures, reduced interior glare, more natural lighting, and clear views of the outdoors every day of the year.






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Air Leakage and Condensation Resistance

NFRC also provides ratings on air infiltration; the amount of air leaking in and out of a building through cracks in walls, windows, and doors can have a great impact on the energy efficiency of a building. Cumulative leakage can account for up to 10% of the energy usage in a typical home. Use of assemblies that meet or exceed the industry standard for windows of 0.37 cfm/ft2 should be a goal for the designer. Even lower values should be required for locations in harsher climates or for windy sites.

Condensation resistance measures how well a product resists the formation of condensation, and is expressed as a number between 1 and 100. The higher the number, the better a product is able to resist condensation.

NFRC ratings for air leakage and condensation resistance are optional on product labels; their presence on the label suggests the manufacturer’s commitment to products of the highest quality.






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Glazing Types

There are several glazing options available for operable walls. Monolithic glazing consists of a single pane. It is not appropriate for exterior applications and is used only where there is no exposure to the elements.

Insulated glazing consists of double (or multiple) panes separated by stainless steel spacers, with an air‐ or gas‐filled space in between. This type of glazing is suitable for exterior‐facing operable walls due to its energy efficiency.

Polycarbonate is available in multiple thicknesses and can be insulated to use on exterior walls. Polycarbonate is more resilient than glass.






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Making a Selection

With a vast number of glazing options on the market, it can often be difficult to make the correct choice. Tinted and low‐e glass are ideal for reducing solar heat gain. Argon or krypton gases can be added to any window system for increased insulation. Look for insulated glazing units with stainless steel spacers, which provide outstanding thermal performance and a life expectancy of approximately 40 years.

Tempered glass is strengthened through heat and is less prone to breaking than traditional glass. It is used in operable walls where added security is required. When tempered glass does break, it shatters into small squares and collapses, making it safer than other types that will break into sharp, jagged pieces. Laminated glass is used in locations where glass should stay in place even after it has shattered. Upon impact, laminated glazing will break, but it will not fall out of the frame. Laminated glass also blocks 99% of all harmful UV rays.






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Making a Selection

Frames can be made of a vinyl‐composite or aluminum. Aluminum does not rot, warp, corrode, or rust, and is highly durable when exposed to the elements. It can be recycled at the end of its product life. The strength and light weight of aluminum allows larger expanses of glass with narrower sightlines.

Nonthermal aluminum frames are available, as well as thermally‐broken frame construction. One common construction method is a pour‐and‐debridge system, in which liquid polyurethane is poured into an aluminum cavity; once the polyurethane has hardened, the aluminum “bridge” around it is removed. In another method, a polyamide strut is threaded into the cavity between two aluminum profiles and crimped into place. Both methods improve thermal efficiency by breaking the continuous metal‐to‐metal contact of the highly conductive aluminum.






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Making a Selection

Look for gaskets constructed from either a high‐grade EPDM or long‐lasting and recyclable silicone.

In operable wall systems, glazing, frames, and appropriate gaskets all contribute to the end result. Designers should avail themselves of manufacturer expertise to guide them during the product selection process. Choosing a single‐source provider for complete operable wall systems simplifies the process.






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Other Considerations: Impact

Miami‐Dade County norms are often considered the most stringent requirements for hurricane resistance and are based on the methods TAS 201 Large and Small Missile Test Standards, TAS 202 Uniform Structural Load Standards, and TAS 203 Uniform Cyclic Pressure Test Standards. These are the standards required for a Miami‐Dade Product Approval in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone, (HVHZ). The Florida Building Code will accept testing performed by TAS methods for inclusion in their database of approved building products. The Texas Department of Insurance also maintains a list of approved products to be installed along the Texas Gulf Coast.

Look for an operable wall system manufacturer whose products are listed for the needed level of impact resistance.






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Other Considerations: Water Infiltration

One method of water infiltration control is via weep flaps (upper images). As water enters the system, it is channeled down to the sill. Once the sill fills with enough water, pressure opens the weep flaps to allow water to exit. Weep flaps are typically used in nonrecessedapplications.

Drain tubes are another option (lower images). Water again is channeled down to the sill where a factory‐installed drain tube allows water to flow out of the system.

Installed weep flaps circled in redWeep flapWeep flap

Drain tube from above Bottom of drain tubeDrain tube






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Other Considerations: Sound Mitigation; ADA Compliance

An acoustical wall system or a clear wall with two gaskets is the ideal solution for projects that have high sound mitigation requirements. Operable sliding walls are available that combine thermal and acoustical performance properties, ideal for both commercial and residential applications.

There are operable wall system sill solutions when a building must be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), with some examples shown below. Specify 10″ bottom rails for ADA compliance.






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Operable Wall Systems and LEED v4

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building certification program is a voluntary, consensus‐based national standard for developing high‐performance, sustainable buildings. An operable wall system may contribute to points toward LEED certification through the following credit categories:

Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite: Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance Intent: To contribute to the comfort and well‐being of building occupants by establishing minimum standards for indoor air quality.Indoor Environmental Quality Credit (1–2 points): Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies Intent: To promote occupants’ comfort, well‐being, and productivity by improving indoor air quality.

By opening up an entire wall, fresh outside air enters a space more quickly and in a greater amount than can be achieved with traditional window openings or mechanical systems, giving occupants access to improved indoor air quality at a moment’s notice.






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Indoor Environmental Quality Credit (1–3 points): DaylightIntent: To connect building occupants with the outdoors, reinforce circadian rhythms, and reduce the use of electrical lighting by introducing daylight into the space.Indoor Environmental Quality Credit (1 point): Quality ViewsIntent: To give building occupants a connection to the natural outdoor environment by providing quality views.

Building occupants who connect with the outdoors while performing everyday tasks experience greater satisfaction, attentiveness, and productivity. Incorporating operable walls in a design enhances both the opportunity to connect with the outdoors and the well‐being of the occupants.






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Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Minimum Energy PerformanceIntent: To reduce the environmental and economic harms of excessive energy use by achieving a minimum level of energy efficiency for the building and its systems.Energy and Atmosphere Credit (1‒20 points): Optimize Energy PerformanceIntent: To achieve increasing levels of energy performance beyond the prerequisite standard to reduce environmental and economic harms associated with excessive energy use.

Thermally efficient operable wall systems can help to reduce cooling or heating energy use with features such as low‐e coatings, tinted or self‐tinting glazing, insulated glazing, and thermally‐broken frames. Wide expanses of glass provide natural daylighting that also reduces lighting energy use.






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Materials and Resources Credit (1‒2 points): Building Product Disclosure and Optimization, Sourcing of Raw Materials, Option 2, Leadership Extraction Practices Intent: To encourage the use of products and materials for which life cycle information is available and that have environmentally, economically, and socially preferable life cycle impacts. To reward project teams for selecting products verified to have been extracted or sourced in a responsible manner.

In this credit, one point may be earned if products meet at least one of a number of criteria for at least 25%, by cost, of the total value of permanently installed building products in the project. One of these elements may apply to operable wall systems that include recycled glass and aluminum: “Recycled content” requires the use of pre‐ and post‐consumer recycled content. For credit achievement calculation, products sourced (extracted, manufactured, purchased) within 100 miles (160 km) of the project site are valued at 200% of their base contributing cost.






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Maintenance

All operable systems share common maintenance requirements. Below is a list of general recommendations—keep in mind, manufacturer’s specific instructions will always take precedence:• Clean frame and glass with nonabrasive glass cleaner twice a year. For infill other than glass, consult

manufacturer; glass cleaners may damage surfaces.• Clean sill systems annually or as buildup of debris is noticed.• Inspect all gaskets and sealant joints annually; look for separation from frames and tightness of seals. High‐

performance fiber seals are available.• Inspect intersections against adjacent structures for movement annually. Verify that sealant and flashings

maintain a complete seal.• Apply white lithium grease or silicone spray to hardware and trolleys annually.• In areas of extremely high use or in high debris areas, the track systems should be inspected monthly.Keep in mind that severe environmental conditions (including among others: saltwater, chemical exposure, and sand) will result in parts and assemblies having a shorter life cycle than expected.






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Durability

One of the most important aspects of a sustainable design approach is using materials, assemblies, and corrosion‐proof hardware that will last a long time without expensive maintenance. Quality products such as stainless steel rollers and high‐performance seals will prove themselves when a whole life‐cycle evaluation is performed, versus considering just a supply and installation cost.

Coextrusion is a process that combines more than one type of material in a die to produce a single piece, resulting in new and improved properties compared to those of the separate materials. Coextruded gaskets utilize more than one type of plastic and offer improved functionality, performance, and durability.






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Warranty

Industry reputation, tests and quality assurances, warranties, and more than anything, previous successful applications and installations will give designers and architects the required level of comfort in using quality products. Warranties, although important, are only one part of the whole picture.

When a complex assembly such as an operable wall system is manufactured, many vendors who supply the components may offer their original manufacturers’ warranties directly to the consumer. Items such as hardware, glass, and aluminum finishes are warranted by those manufacturers with specific information, so it is important that the designers read and fully understand the warranties in order to advise their clients correctly.

Assembly manufacturers usually provide individualized warranties depending upon the specific scope of the project. Extended warranties may also be available, depending on the supplier and the application.






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Design Considerations



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Operable Wall Support

Although all types of operable walls are non‐load bearing by definition, there is still the important consideration of how the panels themselves are supported. Bottom‐Loaded: Generally used in low traffic areas, residences, and conference rooms, and for very large openings; for folding, sliding, or lift sliding walls.Top‐Loaded (Top‐Hung): Generally used in heavy traffic areas, bar‐top (counter) applications, or window applications; for folding or stacking walls.

The top‐hung system requires headers that can bear the weight of the unit; information on design loads can be obtained from manufacturers to assist structural engineers in wall support design. Look for manufacturers who also have in‐house engineering teams to help with the design process.






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Decorative Options

Operable wall panels can have a variety of decorative options. A raised panel has an elevated face that protrudes from the panel base and is often used on the exterior.

Custom decorative glass options are also available to create a unique look or match an existing project. The glass can be tinted, acid‐etched, or frosted; art glass or applied grids with multiple pattern options are also offered.






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Frame Options

Frames for operable wall systems are available in nonthermal and thermally‐broken options. They are also available in various stile widths: narrow, standard, and heavy. A consistent vertical width can be selected, or different stile widths can be mixed and matched to create a unique product. This flexibility allows multiple sight lines and configurations that can be retrofitted to match an existing opening or accommodate specific structural requirements.

These frames can be thermally enhanced utilizing thermal strut or pour‐and‐debridgetechnologies.

E E






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Sill Options

Sills are the lowest horizontal member in a door, window, or sash frame; they are generally slanted down to the outside to shed standing water. Shown here are sill options for folding doors.






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Sill Options

Sill options are numerous and depend on the type of operable wall, if the system is top‐hung or bottom‐loaded, if ADA compliance is required, and/or what kind of climate exposure the opening may receive. They can be flush‐mounted or recessed, and/or have drainage tubes installed.






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Folding Wall Options

Folding glass walls are subject to code regulations in many areas of the United States. Designers should check their state, local, and county building codes to ensure they select the correct folding glass wall system for their area. Impact‐tested, hurricane‐tested, and energy‐saving folding glass wall units have come to market in recent years. Oversized units have also become common, with heights up to 14′ depending on supplier and calculations.

Swing doors can be integrated into folding glass walls to allow access to the space without requiring the entire unit to be opened. Swing doors are typically located at the jamb or midpoint of the system, but can be located at any point the designer determines.






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Folding Wall Configurations

Folding glass walls can be configured in many different ways: continuous from one side to another, or split anywhere in the middle; single or double doors inserted at any point in the wall; and straight or angled, even curved (segmented radius), with no need for a post at the change of direction.






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Stacking Wall Options

Stacking walls are ideal for large individual panels, up to 12′ high and 4′ wide. There is no limit to the number of panels that move, nor is there a standard panel size. Transom and integrated header options are also available.

One of the most useful features of a stacking wall is the ability for any operable panel to serve as a door without the entire unit needing to be open. Double doors are also possible with operable stacking walls.






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Stacking Wall Configurations

Stacking glass wall systems are utilized for straight, angular, multiple face, and curved (segmented radius) openings. Units are typically designed in a 60‐degree, twin trolley configuration. The dual trolleys located above the vertical rails of the glass panels allow them to slide with greater ease along the track, and the 60‐degree design allows for one‐handed operation of the stacking panels. As with folding glass walls, integrated swing doors provide the option to enter and exit without opening all the panels on the entire system.






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Sliding Motorized Walls

A motorized option for use with sliding glass doors is available in most cases. Motorized sliding glass doors are well suited for both residential and commercial applications, and for new construction as well as retrofits.

Motorized options are exceptionally useful when multiple tall or wide panels are involved, eliminating the sometimes lengthy process of moving the door panels by hand. The doors can also feature a “crawl mode” that slows the doors before closing and prevents harsh impacts. The motorized sliding glass doors can be controlled by wall mounted switches, exterior security keypads, or a remote control.






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Sliding Acoustical Walls

Sliding acoustical walls provide both enhanced acoustical and thermal performance with insulated glazing units. These walls provide the perfect solution for projects that have high sound transmission class requirements. They can be used to reduce unwanted noise in both commercial and residential applications. They are available in both dual‐track and multi‐track configurations with multiple sill options that provide outstanding performance and design versatility.

Acoustic values are specific to the glazing selection, and the construction of the framing can also influence the acoustical performance. Operable wall systems may have STC ratings available.






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Lift Sliding Walls

Lift sliding wall systems are a variation of traditional sliding doors with panels sliding on one or more tracks, and require much less effort to open or close. Pockets for doors are available options, on one side or on both left and right sides.

Every panel is thermally insulated. Air, water, and structural performance is higher with a lift slide than with the traditional sliding glass door system.

Lift sliding walls are custom walls—there are no standard sizes to select from. The typical size of a single panel is around 50 square feet, providing a door that is 5′wide by 10′ tall; even taller panels are possible if the width of the panel is reduced, allowing a height of up to 14′ depending on load.






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Sliding/Lift Sliding Wall Configurations

Designers can select a combination of panels, tracks, and even whether the doors are completely hidden to fully open the space. Sliding glass doors typically utilize stainless steel rollers while lift sliding panels usually have polymer rollers. Configuration options include the following:Dual‐Track Sliding Glass Doors: One operable panel slides behind a fixed panel.No‐Post Sliding Glass Doors: Two sliding door systems join together at either a 90‐degree or 135‐degree corner, without using a post for the connection.Multi‐Track Sliding Glass Doors: Two or more panels slide behind a fixed panel.






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Sliding/Lift Sliding Wall Configurations

Radius Sliding Glass Doors: Panels slide on a track that has been placed on a radius.Pocketing Sliding Glass Doors: All panels slide into a pocket within the wall, leaving a completely open space, either with all panels sliding into one side, or with half of the panels sliding to the left, and half to the right.






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Hardware Options

Hardware for operable glass wall systems includes patented overhead closers as shown at right, and various lock, hinge, and handle options.






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Hardware Options

Both rim panic and concealed vertical rod (CVR) exit devices are available, as well as custom hardware options.






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Finish Options

Several types of finishes are available for operable wall systems, including paint, powder coating, anodized finishes, faux wood, wood veneer, metal cladding, and two‐toned finishes. Custom finishes may also be an option.

Paint and Powder Coat

Wood Veneer

Faux Wood Finishes

Metal Cladding






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Screens

When fresh air is welcome but insects pose a problem, screen systems provide a solution. Stacking and folding screens mimic the flow of the glass panels that are behind them. Sliding screen panels can be pocketed into a wall cavity, center split, or stacked to the left or right when fully open.

Motorized or manually retractable screens operate either horizontally or vertically. Horizontally‐retracted screen units can have anywhere from one to six panels, which can be parted at any panel, allowing the user to enter the space at different locations. One‐handed operation moves the screens smoothly along a track with an ADA‐accessible bottom runner.






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Combination Screens

Manufacturers now offer a combination screen for when extra privacy is desired. This system combines a blind with a screen material on a single track. If using a lighter colored blind, only silhouettes are visible from outside. Darker blinds block even more details.

The blind is located on a spool on one horizontal side, while the screen is on a separate spool on the opposite side. The system operates much like a paper towel roll standing upright—pull the blind out to cover the entire opening while the screen retracts, and vice versa.






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Combination Screens

This blind/screen combination is available up to 12′ in length. When any of the fabrics are pulled into the opening, they stay put; they can be partially opened without slamming back to the frame. An additional benefit of this blind is that it can function as a projector screen for movies and television.

A pleated‐type screen is suited for applications with large openings, particularly in height; this screen consists of either a single or double panel configuration. The system can be used with folding doors, sliding doors, French doors, lift sliding doors, screen rooms, or open patios. Two panels can meet on a 90‐degree corner to enclose a space. There are a maximum of two individual panels, meaning that there are no multiple horizontal divisions disrupting the view.






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Applications and Case Studies



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Commercial

Operable glass wall systems are used in many types of commercial and residential projects. They are an ideal way to integrate interior and exterior spaces in the hospitality industry, or to divide interior space in settings such as conference rooms, banquet halls, and classrooms.






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Commercial

Restaurants, cafes, and dining areas can take advantage of the weather and quickly increase their usable space.

Please remember the exam passwordFLEXIBILITY. You will be required to enter it in order to proceed with the online examination.






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Commercial

Operable glass walls are frequently used in stadiums to connect private suites and lounges, press boxes, and dining areas to the action on the field. Stacking or sliding configurations can use clear glass with no framing verticals to present an unobstructed view. Standard panels measure up to 3′ x 10′; even larger configurations are possible if the structural support is adequate.






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Commercial

Stacking solutions can incorporate swing doors for when the wall is in a closed position; custom sizes are available. Individual panels stack out of the way in a remote area, giving the connected spaces a seamless transition. Glass can be impact‐certified for protection of spectators.






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Commercial

Additional commercial projects that can benefit from operable glass wall systems include car showrooms, places of worship, schools and universities, and hotels.






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Residential

For both single‐ and multi‐unit residential projects, operable glass walls create amazing opportunities to connect spaces and extend the interior space outdoors. Operable walls are ideal between decks and pools, kitchens and outdoor dining spaces, gardens and interior courtyards, and even as an entryway between two interior rooms.






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Residential

Operable walls can enclose a porch, front entrance, or sunroom. They can be also part of pool houses, with either bar‐height windows and adjacent doors, or as openings to covered areas of pools and patios. Additional opportunities for operable walls are in retirement homes and nursing facilities.






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Unique Applications

Operable wall applications are limited only by the imagination of the designer and the willingness of the end user to entertain new options. Some unique applications for operable walls are found in wind breaks, wine cellars, pet rooms, interior partitions, and more.






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Case Study: High‐Rise Wood Façade System

The Tower at PNC Plaza in Pittsburgh incorporates state‐of‐the‐art green technology, including a double‐skin façade and solar chimney, and was designed to exceed LEED Platinum®requirements and to be the greenest office tower in the world.

The inner façade separates the public corridor from the office spaces via an operable sliding and stacking door system featuring a creative track design (left photo) used not only for entry, but alsofor passively regulating the heat and fresh air exchange between the spaces. Wood was chosen for its thermal performance as well as its aesthetic warmth, and the FSC‐certified white oak sourced from Western Pennsylvania contributed to multiple LEED points to the project. An insulated glass with a low‐e coating provides the correct amount of light transmission and solar heat gain for daylighting and heating requirements.






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Case Study: 20‐Foot‐Tall Motorized Sliding Glass Doors

A California‐based company desired a contemporary entryway to the expansive lobby of their new corporate headquarters in San Francisco. The 26‐story modernist‐style skyscraper was designed with floor‐to‐ceiling windows to take advantage of the surrounding city and Bay views from every story.

The architects wanted huge, functional glass doors for the lobby to provide a seamless connection to the surrounding community; they also wanted the doors’ height to match the tall lobby ceiling. The solution was 20‐foot‐tall motorized sliding glass doors that take advantage of the full height of the lobby. The doors also meet the 110 mph wind load required.






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Case Study: Opening without Vertical Interruptions

Outdoor stadiums require versatile openings that can be opened to allow passage between the seating and concourse areas, or closed to redirect foot traffic or protect from inclement weather.

At Coors Field in Denver, Colorado, nine stacking wall systems were designed so that the stacked panels cause the least intrusion into the space when open. One of the unique features of this system is having the ability to stack both the window and door panels to the left side. This allowed the window panels to stack out of the way in the box suites. Because the panels require no vertical supports in the open position, large crowds move more freely and easily through the openings.






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Case Study: Center Pivot Folding Glass Windows

The owners of a gastropub in Greenville, South Carolina wanted a wall system to help bring the outdoors in and create a more spacious dining area. They wanted to be able to completely open the space without being restricted to opening the unit only to one side or the other. Additional concerns were that an in‐folding system would take up valuable interior space, while an out‐folding system would overlap more sidewalk than allowed by code.

The solution was a center pivot folding glass window system; center‐hung trolleys on each unit allow the panel to open half to the interior and half to the exterior. The center pivot system can be completely opened and moved anywhere on the track, either left or right, and is also an option for stacking or clear glass walls.






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Summary and Resources



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Summary

Openings and fenestrations are getting larger in contemporary projects. While any type of opening in the building envelope contributes greatly to its success or failure, the impact of these larger designs on the overall performance of a building becomes even more pronounced.

Large operable glass walls are desirable for the daylighting, ventilation, and spatial flexibility benefits they offer, but their thermal, solar gain, and air/water tightness performance must not negate these benefits. Exterior and interior options are offered with frames and glazing to meet the energy, weather, and solar performance needs of the space.

Operable walls come in folding, stacking, sliding, or lift sliding options that meet almost any design requirements, with size limited only by the size of the opening. Uninterrupted views, natural ventilation, and flexible spaces with large operable glass walls offer architects design alternatives unmatched by other fenestration options.






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Resources

For more information on energy‐efficient windows and doors, visit www.energy.gov.

For information on the National Fenestration Rating Council’s uniform, independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, and attachment products, visit www.nfrc.org.

For information on how operable glass walls can contribute to points under the LEED green building certification program, visit www.usgbc.org.

http://www.usgbc.org/

http://www.nfrc.org/

http://www.energy.gov/






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Conclusion

If you desire AIA/CES, state licensing or CE credits for another organization, please click on the button to commence your online examination. A score of 80% or better will allow you to print your Certificate of Completion; you may also go to your AEC Daily Transcript to see your completed courses and certificates.

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©2016 Solar Innovations®. The material contained in this course was researched, assembled, and produced by Solar Innovations® and remains its property. “LEED” and related logo is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used by permission. The LEED® Rating System was authored by and is the property of the USGBC. Any portion of the Rating System appearing in this course is by permission of the USGBC. Questions or concerns about the content of this course should be directed to the program instructor. This multimedia product is the copyright of AEC Daily.

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2016-11-09 Solar Innovations 01 - AEC DailyTypes: Folding Operable glass wall types are defined by...

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