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FGIA releases new report on glass spandrel, shadow box design considerations

The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) has released a new technical information report (TIR) documenting best practices for system design of spandrel areas, including the use of conventional spandrel glass as well as vision glass in conjunction with shadow box panels. Recommendations are made where appropriate, for testing and/or analysis criteria considering aesthetics, serviceability and performance. AAMA TIR-A20-23, Glazed Spandrel and Shadow Box Design Considerations, an FGIA document, is now available for purchase in the FGIA online store.

“Glazed spandrels are often used as opaque areas of the building envelope at floor slabs, columns, and immediately below roof areas,” said Steven DeSutter (EFCO), a leader with the FGIA Curtain Wall/Window Wall Spandrel Review Task Group. “Whether incorporating conventional opacified spandrel glass or shadow box assemblies, unique design considerations apply. TIR-A20 offers a technical review of key issues, including but not limited to, heat buildup, load sharing, aesthetics and cavity venting strategies. TIR-A20 also provides a baseline for ongoing development of test methods to verify spandrel performance.”

This document provides a high-level overview of design considerations for glazed spandrel infills, including both spandrel glass and shadow boxes, as employed in conventional curtain wall, window wall and other fenestration systems, whether stick-built or unitized. It is intended to appeal to the interests of a broad cross section of building professionals; including but not limited to, architects, engineers, test laboratories designers and manufacturers.

AAMA TIR-A20-23, as well as other documents available from FGIA, may be purchased from the online store at the discounted member rate of $20 or the non-member price of $60.