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General Storefronts, Inc.
18931 59th Ave NE #4
Arlington, WA. 98223   

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360. 474.8410
360. 474.8421    Fax

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Since 1987, G.S.I. has been proud to offer quality Products, Workmanship & Service to the Construction Community. Our industry is evolving at a pace that demands continued attention to every aspect of our Trade. With the changes in the Energy Codes, and Building Codes it's no longer a simple matter of looking at a floor plan or a set of elevations and quoting a price.

• We will try to share some of our experiences with you. Recently we have noticed "N.F.R.C. Labels or Certification" being referred to in the specifications or on the drawings. In 1994 the State of Washington's  State Energy Code requires Storefronts, Curtain Walls & Windows to have a N.F.R.C. Label. While not presenting a problem in the residential market, the N.F.R.C. had not developed a method to test Storefronts or Curtain Walls, testing methodology is now in place. Some of the commercial window factories have, and a test has been sanctioned by the N.F.R.C. Those procedures are now in place, they first require a computer simulation of the product you intend to use along with the type of glazing specified. Second a physical test of the product 80"x80" in a two Light Wide configuration must be done . Both of these must be done by a N.F.R.C. licensed facility. The physical test must score within 10% of the computer simulation to become valid. Then the results will be sent to an Inspection agency, this will certify the glazing contractor to build & glaze the site built product. The glazing contractor will then be given a N.F.R.C. Letter which will have the U Value of the computer simulation NOT THE PHYSICAL TEST . If the product you are using has not been tested this whole procedure could cost you upwards of $7,000.00. Be sure you check before you quote the job!

• Another common occurrence will be a note on the drawing "U" Value of .60 & a S.H.G.C. of .50. This usually creates a conflict between the glazing specifications & the storefront specifications. ONLY a thermo-break product will have a tested "U" Value. The addition of the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient is new in 1996 and will require the addition of a high performance Low "E" Glass, ( If the number is less then .60 ). We hope you can understand some of the frustration that faces those of us who are responsible enough to recognize these circumstances & review our quotations with some understanding.