Higher Ed Window Safety Series (PART 1): Benefits of Security Screens

Top-hinged protector security screens on McKee Hall
at Penn State Main Campus

For colleges and universities, campus security is a serious concern.  Over the years, most schools have evolved their security plan(s) to include perimeter fencing, guarded entrances, outdoor lighting, emergency call boxes magnetic card readers and expanded police patrols, in addition to the installation of security screens on residence hall windows.

In this three-part blog series, we'll discuss the nine ways security screens prevent criminal activity at higher education facilities, while saving the institution valuable time and money in replacement screens:

Hurricane Storm Barrier FAQ's

A palm tree blows sideways
due to gale force winds

Since news first broke of megastorm Hurricane Sandy's impending arrival along the U.S. eastern seaboard, many positioned within the storm's path were left scrambling to find adequate protection for both their homes and their families.

The recent weather conditions are a perfect example of how a major storm can make landfall with little warning.  That's why it's imperative to prepare for serious damage well before a storm cell even becomes a blip on the radar.

When selecting hurricane window screens for your residential or commercial facility(ies), it's important to know what to look for in terms of impact resistance and test requirements.

Below are some frequently asked questions about hurricane screens and their uses:

VIDEO: Security Screen Impact Test

Click below to view a brief security screen impact demonstration.

To learn more about the screens featured in this video CLICK HERE.

Stainless Steel Polish Options: A Glossary

Brushed, or #4 polish, will hide
fingerprints & smudges

From consumer products like sinks and refrigerators, to industrial elements such as piping systems and chemical production materials, our lives just wouldn't be the same without stainless steel.

In the manufacturing world, this corrosion-resistant alloy is able to take on many different appearances. Below is a brief overview of the variety of stainless steel polishes that many metal fabricators offer.

4 Advantages of Waterjet Cutting Aluminum

The idea that dense, heavy materials such as aluminum, granite, marble and stainless steel could be cut or engraved using only water pressure, is a relatively foreign concept to the layperson.  However, a variety of business owners - from machine shop managers to engraving professionals - have already learned that utilizing the versatility of a waterjet cutting machine for their custom projects, saves both time and money.

An aluminum balcony railing with custom waterjet cut infill

The same can be said for manufacturers who fabricate metal building products.  Aluminum railing manufacturers, for example, find waterjet cutting machines to be extremely beneficial when filling customer requests for ornate infill panels.

Here are some advantages of cutting aluminum with a waterjet system:

Windows & Balconies: 4 Building Tips for Child Safety & Fall Prevention

Keep kids safe by choosing railing that meets code

According to the American College of Surgeons, falls among children and adolescents account for more than three million emergency department visits each year with 40% of these falls occurring among infants, toddlers and preschoolers.  Nearly three quarters of child falls from elevated areas are unintentional and tend to originate from balconies, windows and trees. 

Whether you're renovating a public housing facility in an urban area, or designing a new high rise hotel near a popular vacation spot, consider making balconies and windows safer for each family and child by following these helpful tips:

7 Benefits of Living Wall Systems

Ivy growing on living wall system, Eco Screen by Kane

Living Walls.

Vertical Gardens.  

Green Walls.  

Eco Screens.

There are many names for them, but what are they, really - and how are they beneficial to our environment?  Whether you're a green building expert or a newcomer to everything eco-friendly, keep reading to learn more about how "growing up" can be a truly earth-loving gesture.

VIDEO: Balcony Railing Slideshow

Take a look at this 2-minute slideshow featuring balcony railings on a variety of commercial applications.

To learn more about the balconies featured in this presentation, CLICK HERE.

4 Facts About Aluminum Railings

Aluminum Sterling Dula Custom Raiilng 

A common question asked within the architecture, engineering and construction field is:

"Why should we use aluminum railings on this project in lieu of another metal, such as steel?"

There are several reasons why aluminum is superior, for both new and retrofit projects. 

Below are four key facts about aluminum railings that every design-build firm, concrete restoration company and consulting engineering group needs to know:

Security Screens: Vandalism Protection for Windows

Storefront window with obvious signs of vandalism

Bare window panes alone are no match for heavy, thrown objects.

When faced with repeated blows from rocks, bricks and bottles, typical window glass doesn't stand a chance against this type of destructive vandalism.

If your storefront or home is located on the first story or street level of a building, consider the benefits of window security screens for the protection of your property - as well as the people inside. 

Flat Top Rails: Attractive Option or Design Danger?

This balcony system's flat top rail looks great - but is it safe?

Balcony railings have the distinct ability to allow us the freedom to experience our world outdoors - in full panorama - from a higher-than-normal altitude.  From seascapes and landscapes to cityscapes and more, balconies offer a secure place to rest our arms while taking a picture, or while simply taking in the view.

Although attractive in appearance, many top rails on balcony railing systems are flat, not curved.  This variation in design shouldn't be a problem, but in reality, it holds a hidden danger - even if the railing is structurally sound and up to code.