Code Education

In my last blog, I expressed my optimism for the construction industry’s road to recovery. The Architectural Billings Index is strong, and we are seeing a return to in-person tradeshows, conferences, and other industry events. While we still have some challenges along the way, particularly with supply chain interruptions, and fulfilling pent-up demand for materials,...

Manufacturers use virtual platforms to help architects meet CEU requirements The fourth quarter of the year is usually the time when architects review how many CEU credits they have, and how many more they need to fulfill their requirements for the year. Tradeshows and conferences are typically popular avenues where architects go to get their...

When ceramic glazing was introduced to the US market in the 1980s, they were touted by distributors as a wire-free clear alternative to the “wired look” of traditional wired glass. Ceramic glazing was marketed as an improvement and carried a high price tag. It was and still is imported from only two sources. One in...

The influx of COVID-19 during the past months has changed our society in unprecedented ways. Numerous shelter-in-place orders, whether it is mandated or simply recommended, has affected how we’ve conducted every day activities both in our personal and professional lives. The building and construction industry is not immune from the negative impact of COVID-19, as...

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE. With architects specifying full-vision, code-compliant, 60 and 90 minute, temperature rise doors for exit stairwells and other code required applications, we found this as an opportunity to expand our product offerings. In the last couple of months, SAFTI FIRST has embarked on an ambitious, $8M expansion to upgrade our fire rated...

Savings Strategy When Specifying 45 Minute Fire Protective Glass New technology allows designers the freedom of large expanses of glazing at less than the cost of standard wall construction. Have you ever experienced “sticker shock” when given the budget for ceramic fire protective glass planned for use in your project? Or were you ever in...

While others may say “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” I don’t subscribe to this way of thinking. In fact, I have found myself at odds with individuals or entire organizations because I believed there was a better way of doing something – that there is always room for improvement. I first got into...

Every year, our company looks forward to participating in the AIA National Convention for many reasons: to show our latest products and see other innovations coming up; to network and engage with the architectural community; to listen and learn from top-notch speakers; and to experience and explore the host city. Indeed, it is for these...

Since 2004, SAFTI FIRST has been writing articles aimed to educate building officials, designers, glazing contractors and the public on the two types of fire rated glazing products based on performance: fire protective, which meant it blocked smoke and flames only and met NFPA 252/257, or fire resistive, which meant it blocked smoke, flames and...

The end of every year is usually a time to reflect on the year that was, and think of hopes and wishes for the coming year. Looking back, it is hard to ignore the natural disasters that we have endured as a nation: Hurricane Harvey in Texas, Hurricane Irma in Florida, Hurricane Maria in Puerto...