New Alumicor RainBlade 2900 Series fixed windows offer design flexibility, high performance and simple installation

The new Alumicor RainBlade 2900 Series of aluminum-framed, thermally broken, fixed windows offers architects design flexibility, building owners high performance, and glazing professionals simplified shop fabrication and field installation.

The RainBlade TrueLine 2900, ShadowLine 2970 and FeatureLine 2990 fixed windows can complement nearly any architectural style, finish colour and building type. Suitable for both new construction and renovation applications, these windows have been successfully tested to provide architectural grade, industry-leading air, water, structural, acoustical and thermal high performance. They support Canadian model energy codes and stretch codes for institutional, commercial and industrial buildings.

“We continually invest in improving and enhancing Alumicor fenestration and framing products to deliver competitive, next-level performance that matches Canada’s industry-leading standards and fast-paced schedules,” said Steve Gusterson, FCSC, CTR. Gusterson represents preconstruction services for Canada with Apogee Enterprises’ Architectural Framing Systems segment, which includes Alumicor brand products.

Engineered for use in individual punched openings or continuous ribbon spans, the Alumicor RainBlade 2900 Series interior-glazed, fixed windows feature a full rain screen design with a minimal sight line. Aluminum frame depths range from 109mm (4.25 inches) to 179mm (7 inches) for 25.4mm (1-inch) dual-glazed insulated glass units (IGUs), and 127mm (5 inches) to 197mm (7.75 inches) for 44.5mm (1.75-inch) triple-glazed IGUs.

Paired with triple-glazed IGUs, Alumicor RainBlade Series’ high thermal performance framing can meet energy code compliance, LEED^® criteria, and other energy efficiency and sustainability goals. Aluminum also may be specified and manufactured with high recycled content. Durable, environmentally responsible finishes minimize maintenance and repairs. At the end of its long lifespan, the aluminum can be locally recycled and reused.

Along with its sustainable attributes and high performance, the Alumicor RainBlade 2900 Series allows for aesthetic creativity. The framing profiles are flush-front RainBlade TrueLine 2900, bull-nosed RainBlade ShadowLine 2970 and capped RainBlade FeatureLine 2990, but different framing styles also can be combined. All models showcase optional 45-degree cut-corner joinery for a crisp, clean appearance. High-performance anodized or painted finishes are available in standard colours, specialty finishes or custom colours. Dual finishes also may be specified to present different colours on the interior and exterior framing.

“Fabricators and installers will notice the little details we have incorporated to make their work go as smoothly and as quickly as possible, while maintaining the integrity of the building envelope,” added Gusterson.

Making tie-ins to the air-vapour barrier simple without compromising performance, all RainBlade fixed windows use a prime seal gasket rather than a labour-intensive, wet-seal heel bead. Saving effort on the jobsite, RainBlade ShadowLine 2970 and FeatureLine 2990 window framing also can be shop-glazed when using optional receptor systems to facilitate installation of pre-glazed split-mullion units. Alumicor RainBlade 2900 Series fixed windows also seamlessly integrate with Alumicor operable vents and windows for natural ventilation.