Project name: 936 Arch St Apartment

Location: Philadelphia, US

Project Type: Apartment

Project Status: Under Construction

Products: Fixed Window, Casement Window, Hinged Door, Commercial Door.

Single Hung Window, Glass partition, Shower Door, MDF Door.

Service: Construction drawings, open new mold, Sample proofing, Installation Guide

Review

This 10-story apartment renovation project, located in the heart of Philadelphia, offers a prime urban living experience. Which typically feature 1- to 3-bedroom layouts and penthouse duplexes with spacious, open-plan designs. Modern interiors include stainless steel kitchens, marble countertops, walk-in closets, and high-end bathrooms.

Surrounded by a vibrant mix of cultural landmarks, restaurants, and green spaces, the apartment is ideally positioned for residents seeking convenience and modern city life. The renovation is designed to enhance both the exterior aesthetics and the interior functionality of the building, with a contemporary design that fits into the architectural charm of the neighborhood.

Challenge

1. Compliance with Energy Star Requirements

One of the significant challenges was meeting the updated Energy Star requirements for windows and doors. These standards, aimed at reducing energy consumption, set stringent criteria for thermal performance, air leakage, and solar heat gain. Designing windows that fit the existing structure while achieving these new benchmarks required careful material selection and advanced engineering.

2. Ease of Installation and Maintenance

Another challenge was ensuring that the windows were easy to install and maintain post-renovation. Given that this was an older building, the installation process had to be streamlined to avoid structural damage. Additionally, the windows had to be designed for long-term durability with minimal maintenance, ensuring ease of repair or replacement for future upkeep.

Solution

1.Energy-Efficient Design

To meet the energy-saving requirements, Topbright incorporated Low-E glass into the window design. This type of glass is coated to reflect heat while allowing light to pass through, significantly reducing the building’s heating and cooling costs. The frames were made from T6065 aluminum alloy, a newly cast material known for its strength and durability. This ensured that the windows not only provided excellent insulation but also had the structural integrity to withstand the urban environment's demands.

2.Optimized for Local Weather Conditions

Given Philadelphia's varied climate, Topbright developed a specialized window system to handle both the city's hot summers and cold winters. The system features triple-layer sealing for superior water and airtightness, using EPDM rubber, which allows for easy glass installation and replacement. This ensures that the windows maintain their high performance with minimal maintenance, keeping the building well-insulated and protected from harsh weather conditions.

Product Used

• Fixed Window

• Casement Window

• Hinged Door

• Commercial Door

• Single Hung Window

• Glass partition

• Shower Door

• MDF Door