At Hale Glass, we believe the foundation of any successful glazing project lies in the details. As experts in the field, we understand that communication and thoroughness are paramount to meeting our customers' needs and ensuring the success of every project we undertake. This attention to detail not only guarantees that we cover all bases but also fosters trust and transparency.
If you are receiving a glazing bid from a glass contractor, make sure that it is comprehensive and detailed.
A thorough bid not only reflects the contractor’s professionalism but also helps prevent potential issues later in the project.
When reviewing glazing bids, use this checklist to help select a contractor who will deliver the best results for your project.
Here are the key aspects you should look for in a glazing bid:
1. Overall Thoroughness of the Proposal
Key Point: Does the proposal appear complete and concise?
A complete and well-organized proposal indicates that the contractor has considered every aspect of the project, which is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings and delays.
2. Exterior Aluminum Framing System (Type / Size / Finish)
Important Consideration: If Class I anodize is required, verify that it’s included in the bid.
Tip for Project Managers: For finish submittals, request 4-inch samples of the actual aluminum framing material with the specified finish to ensure it meets your standards.
3. Sealant Joint Size(s)
Key Point: Sizes may differ depending on the aluminum system.
Verification: Ensure that the sealant joint sizes provided by all bidders match the specifications in your project details.
4. Exterior Glass / Glazed Panels (Color / Thickness / Low-E Type)
Critical Detail: Check that the color, thickness, and type of Low-E glass specified align with your project requirements.
Tip for Project Managers: During installation, verify that the glass tags correspond to the specified materials.
5. Sound Transmission Class (STC) / Outside/Inside Transmission Class (OITC) Requirements
Important Consideration: Confirm that the bid meets the specified acoustic performance standards.
Note: These requirements can vary depending on the location, so make sure the contractor has accounted for this.
6. U-Value / Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) Requirements
Energy Efficiency: Ensure that the bid complies with the specified U-Value and SHGC requirements to meet energy efficiency goals.
7. Doors, Hardware & Access Control (Rails & Stile Size / Hardware Schedule by Door Mark / Access Control by Door Mark)
Key Point: Verify that the bid includes custom hardware as specified for each door opening, especially electrified and access control hardware.
Important Detail: Each door should be carefully reviewed to ensure compliance with your project’s hardware schedule.
8. Water Test Requirements
Key Consideration: Look for pressure differential (ASTM E1105) and hose stream (AMAA 501.2) testing requirements in the bid.
Tip: If water testing is required, ask the contractor to include the testing protocol in the bid.
9. Shop Drawings (Deferred Submittal / Engineering)
Detail Review: Shop drawings should be included and should reflect all necessary details, including any deferred submittals or engineering specifications.
A comprehensive glazing bid is a critical step in your project’s planning process. By ensuring that the bid is thorough and covers all the essential details, you can safeguard against potential issues and ensure a smooth project execution. A well-prepared bid reflects a contractor’s commitment to quality and their understanding of your project’s specific needs.
Comments