Aug 16 2006
Architects and specifiers stand to benefit from a brand new website from Pilkington; www.pilkington4architects.com, a resource equipped with a host of facilities and information, designed to guide architects through the tricky glazing specification process.
The site was developed especially for architects and specifiers based on their requirements. Research by Pilkington Building Products – UK revealed that clear comprehensive and good quality information, ease of navigation, up-to-date product details and email technical help were primary needs.
And so www.pilkington4architects.com was born. The easy-to-navigate site provides architects with a wealth of glass solutions. It’s quick and simple to use and features dedicated sections that enable users to identify instantly the appropriate criteria needed to specify the correct Pilkington product for their design.
On the ‘wish’ list were a Performance Directory, Product Directory, Product Selector and information on legislation affecting glazing. Satisfying these needs, Pilkington has created a site that helps architects with both commercial and home projects.
It guides users through Pilkington’s extensive knowledgebase and product range in easy-to-use steps through the new extensive Product Directory. The information is filed under four main categories, Benefit, Application, Brand Name and Performance.
Need solar control? Fire protection? Or maybe self-cleaning glass? Simply click onto the Benefit section and choose accordingly. Brand Names of products are listed alphabetically to ease choice.
For architects requiring more guidance, the Application section should be the first stop. Users are directed to images of a commercial building or a home and can simply click on the relevant area to be offered information specific to that section of the building, e.g. glass floors and then be led through technical advice to the most appropriate products for the required application
The final category is Performance and the site contains unique tools such as Pilkington Spectrum and Pilkington Specifire to aid the specification of the correct Pilkington products for each requirement.
As is to be expected of a company with Pilkington’s commitment to customer service, technical help is extensive. A registration form enables architects and specifiers to email Pilkington to receive answers and advice on their individual needs.
The Energy Control section considers the impact coatings and tints have on solar control and energy efficiency. It also examines the impact of the new Window Energy Ratings, which came into force with the amendments to Part L of the Building Regulations. These are explained, along with their direct implications for architects, with case studies and project examples providing further guidelines on suitable applications. An additional Glossary offers a handy point of reference.
About Glass discusses the appearance, characteristics and chemical make-up of glass products. Mechanical Functions covers the plethora of conditions in which glass has to succeed in a wide range of applications. Glass and the Environment underlines the company’s responsible approach to its environmental obligations, with standards on carbon emissions, conservation and glass recycling.