Crystal Windows Preserve Washington, DC History
Crystal Window & Door Systems supplied over 3,100 new energy-efficient replacement aluminum windows, sliding doors, and terrace doors for the renovation of the historic OMNI Shoreham Resort and Hotel in Washington, DC. The OMNI Shoreham Hotel renovation features Crystal aluminum fixed picture windows in grand openings and Crystal swing terrace doors to balconies. –Over 3,100 Windows and Doors Refurbish Historic Hotel– QUEENS, NY, August 21, 2023 –The site of 22 U.S. Presidential inaugural celebrations and much Washington, DC history, the iconic OMNI Shoreham Hotel recently was renovated with over 3,100 modern energy efficient Crystal Window & Door Systems products. The award-winning national manufacturer supplied the project with 3,016 replacement windows and 141 sliding glass and swing terrace doors. The OMNI Shoreham Hotel is a sprawling 8-story 92-year-old complex located just off Connecticut Avenue at 2500 Calvert Street NW, Washington, DC. The OMNI Shoreham Hotel is a member of the Historic Hotels of America and as such, the Crystal products used for the renovation underwent an historic approval process. “Bringing modern fenestration to an historic hotel like the OMNI Shoreham is a testament to Crystal’s robust energy efficient product line,” said Steve Chen, President of Crystal Windows. “We’ve helped restore many historic and landmark buildings around the nation, but the OMNI Shoreham is by far one of the largest and grandest. We are quite proud to have been part of the project.” The majority of the Crystal windows used on the project were the aluminum Series 2100 fixed picture windows. Most of these windows utilized an internal horizontal T-mullion within the window’s master frame and two insulated glass lites to replicate the appearance of the building’s original double-hung windows. In some instances, windows were horizontally combined using mullions. Also a small number of Crystal Series 2000A double-hung windows were installed in select locations. Mainstays of the Crystal product line, the Series 2100 and 2000A are 3-¼” frame depth windows with AAMA structural ratings of CW-PG65 and CW-PG50, respectively. The Crystal Series 2000A has tilt-in sashes, a sloped sill, an anti-drift head clip lock for added safety and a weather-tight seal, and sash opening limit stops. In some very large and tall (up to 91”) opening locations, the more robust Crystal Series 5100 aluminum fixed picture window was specified. This 3-¼” jamb window uses heavy-duty extrusions and achieves an AAMA AW-PG100 rating. Providing guest room and public area access to the OMNI Shoreham Hotel’s distinctive balconies and terraces, Crystal supplied 141 of its aluminum frame Series 1240 sliding glass doors and Series 1450 out-swing terrace doors. The 2-lite Series 1240 sliding door features a 4-9∕16” jamb thermally-broken aluminum frame, 1” insulated glass units, quad tandem ball bearing rollers, and heavy-duty handles. The door is rated LC-PG45/SGD-C40. The heavy-duty Crystal Series 1450 terrace doors were specified in both the standard version and ADA compliant versions. Also, many of the Crystal out-swing terrace doors were outfitted with compatible Series 2100 fixed glass sidelight windows. The aluminum Crystal Series 1450 terrace door has a 3-¼” frame, 1” glazing pocket, and an outstanding AW-PG75 structural rating. The Series 1450 also features a multi-point locking system and an advanced polyamide insulated strut thermal-break system for greater energy efficiency. For guest rooms set aside for those with disabilities and mobility challenges, the Crystal 1450D out-swing terrace door was specified. This door’s independently tested low ½” ADA-compliant threshold allows easy access, yet is weather-resistant and has a water-resistance rating of 10 psf. One of the few elite swing terrace doors offering a certified laboratory water-tested ADA low sill, the door also achieves an excellent AW-PG50 structural rating. Modern insulated glass units (IGUs) provided the Crystal windows and doors used for the OMNI Shoreham Hotel renovation project with superior energy efficiency. Depending on the specific product, either ⅞” or 1” IGUs were used, and all dual-pane IGUs were specified with Vitro Solarban 60 low-E coated glass and Argon gas filling for enhanced thermal performance. Where appropriate, or code required, obscured or tempered glass was used. All the Crystal window and door products were finished in a durable AAMA 2604 sustainable bronze powder coat paint. To facilitate installation, Crystal supplied a variety of H-mullions, head expanders, as well as anchor clip and snap trim accessories. The Shoreham Hotel since 1983 has been owned and operated by the high-end OMNI Hotel and Resorts Group headquartered in Dallas, TX. The fenestration contractor for the project was Caffes-Steel of Beltsville, MD. Originally titled the Shoreham Hotel, the magnificent facility opened in the fall of 1930. Using a combination of Renaissance Revival and Art Deco architectural design, the building has been termed DC’s “Grand Dame” hotel. The OMNI Shoreham Hotel is situated on 11 acres of well-manicured landscaped grounds in the upscale tree-lined Woodley Park neighborhood. Its numerous wings have 834 spacious guest rooms. In its early years, the Shoreham Hotel served as an ultra-luxurious residential hotel to both DC and international elites. During the 1950s, it transitioned into a high-end resort and convention hotel. The hotel has hosted every US Presidential inaugural ball since Franklin Delano Roosevelt (except for Donald Trump, whose inaugural balls were held elsewhere in Washington, DC). President Roosevelt had a special suite with enclosed balcony there and both Presidents Truman and Kennedy were considered hotel regulars. Spanning the decades, notable celebrities who have performed in the ballroom or stayed at the hotel include Rudy Vallée, Bob Hope, the Beatles, Aretha Franklin, and President Clinton, who played the saxophone at an event there.
Crystal uPVC Windows Approved for Florida Hurricane Zones
Crystal Window & Door Systems’ MAGNUS uPVC Commercial Vinyl Series 4500 Tilt-and-Turn (shown above, with its test certificate) and Fixed windows received approval for use in Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) as well as regions outside these zones. Crystal now has 10 windows approved for projects in Florida, with two in HVHZs. -High-End Commercial Vinyl Rated for Impact and Water Resistance- QUEENS, NY, November 17, 2022 – National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems is pleased to announce that it has added two products to its roster of windows approved by the Florida Building Commission. The MAGNUS uPVC commercial vinyl Series 4500 Tilt-and-Turn and Fixed windows were just approved for use in Florida hurricane areas. Crystal already has eight other products approved for high-wind locations in the state by Florida building authorities. All these Crystal windows are also suitable candidates for high-wind and coastal locations in other states. “These are the first Crystal products rated for use in Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) for impact and water resistance, as well as for use in less severe high-wind locations,” said Sabrina Leung, Architectural Sales and Engineering Manager. “The MAGNUS line is one of our top performers, with the perfect combination of aluminum’s superior strength and vinyl’s outstanding thermal performance. The uPVC line also offers great sound attenuation.” Qualifying for the Florida HVHZ rating, the MAGNUS Series 4500Tilt-and-Turn window achieved an R65/wind zone 4/missile level D rating, with water resistance tested at 9.75 psf. The MAGNUS Series 4500 Fixed window’s water resistance was successfully tested at 12.12 psf and is also rated R65. Both MAGNUS Series 4500 windows were tested with 1” overall tempered and laminated double-pane insulated glass units, incorporating the SentryGlas Plus by DuPont laminating interlayer. All testing was completed by independent test labs with separate independent engineering review for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for adherence to the current Florida Building Code. Crystal’s MAGNUS Series 4500 features a choice of either 2-⅜” or 3-¼” frame depths, multi-point locks, sash perimeter compression seals, and top quality hardware. The frame’s insulating multi-chambers are suitable for optional reinforcement, an important feature for large size or heavy commercial rated windows. The MAGNUS Series 4500 accommodates insulated glass units up to 1-⅜” and offers U-values as low as 0.20. The uPVC material’s High-Definition Finish (HDF) outperforms standard vinyl to assure years of unparalleled service with minimal maintenance and it is available in three extruded colors – white, beige, and clay. Additional solid color and wood grain foil options are available. To facilitate new construction and retrofit installations in a variety of building types, optional nail fins and other accessories are available. Other Crystal products approved for Florida construction zones outside HVHZ regions include eight select aluminum commercial, heavy-commercial, and architectural windows in slider, double-hung, fixed, and awning styles. Recently, Crystal supplied over 2,100 window and door products for two new student residences at University of Florida-Gainesville’s campus, in a high-wind region of central Florida. With the MAGNUS Series 4500, Crystal now has 10 products approved for use in Florida. “Crystal is expanding in the Southeast where new development and renovation construction is strong,” said Steve Chen, President. “Florida is an exciting market, and we are proud that our Florida-approved products are meeting this demand.”
Crystal Improved Terrace Door Rises to New Heights
Crystal Window’s Series 1450/1460 Aluminum Swing Terrace Door has been structurally and thermally enhanced and offers new hardware (hydraulic closer shown below), glazing, and a laboratory water-tested ADA low sill option. -Features Include ADA Compliant Sill, Enhanced Structural Performance, New Hardware – QUEENS, NY, August 30, 2022 –National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems is pleased to announce its significantly improved Aluminum Series 1450 Out-Swing and Series 1460 In-Swing Terrace Doors are now available. This best-selling architectural product line has been reengineered and redesigned for elevated structural and thermal performance, with new features, options, and enhanced ADA compliance. Crystal’s Series 1450/1460 Terrace Dooris constructed with heavy-duty 0.093” wall thickness extrusion and a redesigned strong multi-chamber 3-¼” jamb frame, making it well-suited for high-rise and wind-prone installations. Superior thermal performance of the Series 1450/1460 door is achieved with polyamide strut thermal break and heavy-duty gasketing to achieve U-values as low as 0.32. This thermal performance far surpassesNew York City’s latest energy code specifications, one of the most stringent state or municipal energy codes in the country. The Series 1450/1460 door offers glazing of either 1” or 1-¼” dual- or triple-pane tempered insulated glass units, with low-E coatings and gas-filling options for further energy efficiency and sound attenuation. Crystal upgraded all the hardware selections for the Series 1450/1460to give the terrace door a sleeker look with even easier operation. The multi-point locking door features a new no-backplate door handle option which matches handles on Crystal’s high-end casement window products for continuity of appearance, and a separate cylinder keylock can be placed above or below this door handle. Slim heavy-duty barrel hinges provide years of perfectly aligned operation. A powerful adjustable hydraulic closer from leading German hardware manufacturer G-U (Gretsch-Unitas) features a concealed mounting plate and slide arm assembly designed for outswing door operation, which allows effortless operation of the door while maintaining the door’s sleek look on the interior. A bottom stile 10” kick plate is also available for the ADA-compliant Series 1450D door. The aluminum frame of Crystal’s Series 1450/1460Aluminum Swing Terrace Door is finished in durable environmentally sustainable powder coat paint, to either AAMA 2604 or 2605 performance standards. Architects and property owners can choose from a broad palette of standard and stock colors, two-tone (different interior and exterior) frame colors, and any custom color desired. Left: The Crystal Series 1450/1460Swing Terrace Door 3-¼” jamb frame features polyamide strut thermal break, 0.093” wall thickness extrusion, and heavy-duty weatherstripping. Right: The new contemporary no-backplate handle comes with a separate keylock option.
New Queens High-Rises Use Advanced Crystal Windows
Crystal Windows recently supplied 1,554 energy efficient MAGNUS commercial uPVC vinyl windows for three new construction multifamily buildings in Forest Hills, Queens, New York on a beautiful campus. -Manufacturer Supplies Over 1,500 High-Performance uPVC Windows for Project- QUEENS, NY, August 17, 2022 – Crystal Window & Door Systems, the award-winning national manufacturer, is proud to have furnished the recently completed multi-year Apex Place Apartments project with 1,554 high-performance commercial vinyl uPVC windows. The three affordable housing high-rise towers, each between 13 and 17 stories tall, were specified with Crystal’s premier extremely energy efficient MAGNUS Series 4500 window line. The three multi-family buildings, known as Apex One, Apex Two, and Apex Three, are located on the same residential campus near the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and 108th Street in the Forest Hills section of New York City’s Borough of Queens. Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride or uPVC has been in common use as a commercial window frame material in Europe for decades. Now uPVC is growing in popularity in America since it offers strength similar to aluminum with the superior thermal efficiency of traditional vinyl windows. Added benefits of the new material include low maintenance and inherent sound reduction properties. “We are seeing increasing demand for our MAGNUS commercial uPVC vinyl windows in all types of mid- and high-rise projects, especially because it provides exceptional comfortfor residents in multifamily properties,” said Sabrina Leung, Architectural Sales and Engineering Manager for Crystal. “Architects are embracing this material, specifying it here in New York and in all the major markets across the country.” Crystal’s uPVC MAGNUS 4500 In-Swing and Fixed windows were exclusively used throughout the three buildings at Apex Place. Virtually all the windows were very large in size and used combinations of 2 or 3 casement, fixed, and HVAC louver panels combined in expansive master frames. Most of the building’s window openings were nearly floor-to-ceiling, with window combinations commonly spanning 65-¾” x 88-⅝” or 65-¾” x 97-¾,” while some were exceptionally large at 81” x 104”. The Crystal MAGNUS 4500 window systems were a natural choice for such a project. The Crystal MAGNUS 4500 Series windows feature a strong cadmium- and lead-free multi-chamber 2-⅜” depth uPVC frame. Adding to the windows’ strength and ability to span large openings, frames and sashes have internal steel channel reinforcement. Both the MAGNUS 4500 In-Swing Casement and Fixed windows for this project were AW-PG70 rated. All the MAGNUS windows had standard white interiors and durable Grey or Medium Brown RenolitFX exterior foils. A standout feature of the Crystal MAGNUS 4500 In-Swing window is its compression dual-seal weather-tight technology. Other features include a multi-point locking system operated by a stylish high-quality handle. Project specifications also called for the inclusion of a New York City code approved limit opening device. For all the MAGNUS windows, thermal performance was enhanced by using Vitro SB60 glass and Argon gas for the 1-5∕16” dual pane insulated glass units (IGUs). The insulated glass package played a key role in the windows’ ability to surpass U-value 0.29 and SHGC 0.29 project specifications. The use of dissimilar thickness glass in the IGU, combined with the large overall IGU size and inherent sound attenuation properties of uPVC, delivered excellent OITC ratings of 30. Reduction of sound transmittance was an important specification requirement because the project is situated near a major highway. The 1,214aluminum model AEL-42 PTAC louvers for the project were manufactured by Reliable of Geneva, AL. Crystal sourced and factory fitted the louvers with the other vision glass windows into the MAGNUS master frames. The three new towers of the Apex Place Apartments provide 442 units of much-needed affordable housing. The project is particularly interesting in that the three new construction buildings and a new 4-story parking garage structure were nestled in amongst three existing NYC Housing Authority multi-family buildings. Along with the existing community center and expansive central green spaces, the new buildings create an integrated cohesive campus. The new towers are all equipped with rooftop solar panels and offer expanded community spaces, fitness rooms, children’s playrooms, and on-site laundry facilities. The owner/developer for Apex One, Two, and Three is Apex Place Association and Phipps Houses, both of New York, NY. Architectural services were provided by a partnership between Curtis & Ginsberg Architects of New York, NY, and FX Collaborative of Brooklyn, NY. Monadnock Construction of Brooklyn, NY was the general contractor for the three-building new construction project.
Crystal Windows Provides US Navy with New “Eyes” on Pacific
Crystal Pacific supplied new highly energy efficient MAGNUS uPVC commercial vinyl windows in sliding and fixed styles with special glazing for the classified activities building overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Point Loma Naval Base near San Diego Harbor. -Manufacturer Supplies uPVC Windows for San Diego Area Naval Facility – RIVERSIDE, CA, July 28, 2022 –An important classified facility at the Point Loma Naval Base is sporting new windows as it overlooks the Pacific Ocean near San Diego Harbor. The building, which has been described as a modern-day “technical lighthouse” for US Navy ships at sea was recently renovated with 95 new windows supplied by Crystal Pacific Window & Door Systems. The project involved numerous product, production, and delivery challenges which Crystal navigated well. First was the need for a window system that would stand up to the damaging effects of incessant salt sea air and UV sunlight. Besides the significant challenge of providing materials to a secure military facility job site, the Navy also imposed an incredibly aggressive timeline for project completion, to which Crystal and the fenestration installer responded with “all hands on deck.” “Crystal Pacific’s success with this project is a result of our great product lineup, the can-do spirit of our technical and production staff, and our sales team’s smooth coordination with the general contractor and Naval Base staff,” said Vivian DeMarco, Sales Manager for Crystal Pacific. All the windows were fabricated at Crystal’s Riverside, CA, factory. The general contractor and fenestration installer for the project was B3 Construction of San Diego. To handle the sea and sun environment, the 4-story west-facing building just 100 yards from the ocean was supplied with 95 Crystal MAGNUS Series 700 uPVC commercial vinyl windows with special glass options. The Crystal MAGNUS uPVC windows combine the strength of aluminum with the energy efficiency and low maintenance of vinyl windows. Crystal used two styles of MAGNUS Series 700 uPVC window for the Naval Base project. Most of the windows were the Series 700 single-slider rated R-PG55, and a few Series 700 fixed windows were also used with a CW-PG70 rating. Both windows feature strong, durable cadmium- and lead-free multi-chambered 3-¼” jamb depth uPVC frames. Crystal’s uPVC windows are easily capable of spanning large openings. The new MAGNUS windows were mulled onsite to form continuous horizontal ribbons spanning entire floors on the modernist building. The single-slider windows were used for openings as large as 60” wide by 53-½” tall and the fixed windows were used in sizes of 69-½” wide by 53-½” tall with a few 52” wide by 92” tall. The MAGNUS Series 700 single-slider features include dual brass rollers and pull rails for easy operation, reinforced interlocking sashes for a weather-tight seal, and a modern design automatic sash lock. To maintain the building’s original interiors and exteriors, the Crystal MAGNUS windows were finished with a durable bronze Renolit foil which is extremely resistant to heat, sun, salt, air pollution, and abrasion. Both Crystal MAGNUS Series 700 styles used have a 1” insulated glass unit (IGU) pocket. For this San Diego area project, the IGUs were all specified with dual pane tempered Cardinal triple coated LoE3-366, argon gas filling, grey tinting, with a few units fitted with obscured glass. The Cardinal LoE3-366 is noted for its superior thermal and sun control properties while maintaining the clearest views. The special glass package combined with inherent uPVC energy efficiency delivered U-values of 0.29 and solar heat gain (SHGC) of 0.21 for the Series 700 slider and U-values of 0.28 and SHGC of 0.23 for the fixed style. “Crystal is really quite proud of our products and performance with this project, including the final delivery which we made right on time,” said DeMarco. “Our customer, B3 Construction, as well as the property owner, the US Navy, are both satisfied and looking forward to working with Crystal again.”
Crystal Windows A Key Supplier in Rockaway Village Project
Crystal supplied nearly 9,000 architectural aluminum Series 8800/8810 windows for several buildings at the new construction Rockaway Village development in Far Rockaway, Queens, NY. -Manufacturer Provides Almost 9,000 Windows for Expansive New Development- QUEENS, NY, May 13, 2022 –National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems is wrapping up its deliveries of thousands of new windows for the ambitious new development Rockaway Village in Far Rockaway, NY. The expansive multi-year new construction project is rejuvenating this neighborhood at the outskirts of New York City’s Borough of Queens, taking advantage of the convenient passenger and elevated subway rail lines, and replacing abandoned properties and empty lots with beautiful new apartment buildings and retail spaces. “We are very proud to be part of this exciting construction project at Rockaway Village,” said Sabrina Leung, Crystal Architectural Sales Manager. “Crystal’s design, engineering, and production capabilities and our on-site consulting expertise made us the perfect partner to supply our high-end architectural windows to these new properties.” Crystal has supplied five of the development’s large mid-and high-rise residential buildings with 8,843energy efficient architectural window products. Most of the Crystal windows used at the Rockaway Village project were configured in large combinations of in-swing casement, picture, and HVAC louvers. In many cases, the windows provide expansive views, spanning large floor-to-ceiling openings, up to91” wide by 107-½” tall. Each building also used 90° mullions to join windows at building corners, providing an attractive and exciting glass feature for occupants. The combination arrangements were facilitated using the Series 8800/8810 master frame option as well as several types of mullion systems. The five buildings Crystal supplied at the Rockaway Village project exclusively used the company’s high-end architectural aluminum Series 8800 In-Swing Casement and Series 8810 Fixed windows. The windows feature heavy-duty 2-⅝” deep frames with corner key reinforcement. Both the casement and fixed windows use advanced polyamide strut thermal break systems for enhanced thermal performance. The window sashes offer 1-¼” IGU pockets and provide a zero-sightline look. A continuous master frame option allows the combination of multiple styles in one opening. The Crystal Series 8800 In-Swing Casement is rated AW-PG100/PG80. The Series 8810 Fixed/Picture window is rated AW-PG75. Specified with clear, tempered, or laminated glass panes, the insulated glass units (IGUs) for the windows were also specified with Guardian SN68 low-E glass coatings and Argon gas filling to deliver outstanding energy efficiency. To accommodate individual apartment HVAC units, several thousand of the Series 8810 Fixed window frames were fitted with AEL-42 model louvers by Reliable of Geneva, AL. Crystal supplied the PTAC louvers and factory installed them into the window frames prior to jobsite delivery. The Crystal Series 8800 In-Swing Casement uses 4-bar concealed hinges and a triple compression gasket seal. For safety, all the Series 8800 Casement windows were fitted with NY City code certified opening limit devices. In apartments designated for seniors, Crystal equipped the operating casements with ADA compliant hardware. Installation accessories for all the Series 8800 and 8810 windows included subsills and receptor systems, as well as H-, 3-piece, and 90° corner mullions. As the windows’ thermal strut construction allows for window frame interiors and exteriors to be different colors, all the windows received an extremely durable two-tone AAMA 2605 powder coat paint finish, with bronze exterior and white interior frames. Electrostatically applied powder coat paint, which virtually eliminates VOC compounds, is noted for its environmental sustainability, uniform coating, color properties, and weather resistance. Rockaway Village is developed and owned by Phipps Houses of New York, NY, one of the largest non-profit developer and owner of affordable housing in the Metro Area. When fully completed, Rockaway Village will offer 1,700 new apartments in 8 buildings, which range from 8 stories to 15 stories, along with over 120,000 sq. ft. of commercial and community space, landscaped courtyards and outdoor gathering spaces, and tree-lined streets and walkways. The terminus of the Long Island Railroad Far Rockaway branch is at the east end of the development, and the west end is across the street from New York City’s A-TrainMott Avenue elevated subway station. Marvel Architects of New York, NY, is the design firm for the entire Rockaway Village development, andLettire Construction, also of New York, NY, is the general contractor. Longtime Crystal customer Marvel Contracting Service (not related to Marvel Architects) of Queens, NY, served as the fenestration installer.
Crystal PacificWindow & Door Systems Marks 10 Years of Growth
Above: Crystal Pacific President of Operations Sergio Garcia (third from right) with team members. Below: are recognitions and congratulations from elected officials. – Manufacturer Now Employs 90 and Offers Many Product Lines – RIVERSIDE, CA, April 27, 2022 – Crystal Pacific Window & Door Systems, the west coast affiliate of national manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems, marks its 10th year of operation and growth since opening its doors in May of 2012. Launched by the national company’s founder and Chairman Thomas Chen, Crystal Pacific (also referred to as Crystal California)was started to bring quality vinyl energy efficient windows and doors to remodeling and new construction general contractors, builders, and property managers in California and neighboring states. “The past ten years have been very exciting for Crystal Pacific, as we have grown significantly in terms of sales, job creation, and product lines,” said Sergio Garcia, Crystal Pacific’s President of Operations. “We have expanded from simple residential vinyl windows into manufacturing aluminum and commercial vinyl windows and doors for all types of renovation and new construction projects. We tripled the number of employees working here in Riverside to 90 in the past 10 years.Crystal Pacific now ships products up and down the west coast, and for certain special projects, across the country.” Crystal Pacific is a national leader in the fabrication of commercial uPVC vinyl windows and doors for mid-and high-rise properties with its MAGNUS products. These highly energy efficient products combine the best features of two window frame materials – the strength and durability of aluminum and the superior thermal performance of vinyl. Crystal Pacific’s 116,000-ft2factory and headquarters are located at 1850 Atlanta Avenue in Riverside. The property was purchased by Chen during the deep economic downturn hitting southern California at the time because he believed the potential of the region was exceptional. By investing in the region and creating jobs, Crystal Pacific was part of the resurgence of the Riverside, CA business community. The company’s steady growth and job creation was noted with certificates of recognition from Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson and Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington, and by a congratulatory letter from US Senator Dianne Feinstein. The company is planning several customer and employee activities to celebrate the anniversary throughout the year. Crystal Pacific windows are installed at many notable properties in Southern and Northern California, including Avalon Bay Public Market development in Oakland, TownePlace Suites by Marriott at the San Diego airport, the St. Bernardine Radiation Therapy Center in San Bernardino, Hyatt Place Riverside, and Monticello Village luxury residential development in Santa Clara. The company plans to continue its growth with additional product lines, equipment, and customer services in the coming months.
Ask About Crystal Windows Aluminum Fast Lead Time
In a bind? Are openings ready for windows but delivery is still months and months away? We have you covered. Thanks to recent process improvements, we have dramatically cut down the lead time on all aluminum products. Call your Crystal representative to find out how to get a truckload shipment of Architectural-Rated Aluminum windows in 9 weeks*! *Standard product features. Specialty glass, hardware, or color finish may extend this lead time. Lead time is subject to change without prior notice.
Crystal Windows Defy Northern Climate for Wisconsin Projects
Crystal Window & Door Systems recently supplied two new multifamily projects in Wisconsin – City Center in Brillion. -Energy Efficient Vinyl WindowsEnhanceAffordable Housing Options – QUEENS, NY, November 8, 2021 –National manufacturer Crystal Window & Door Systems recently completed supplying energy-efficient vinyl windows for two new construction mid-rise multifamily residences in Wisconsin. The Crescent Lofts project at 315 West Franklin Street in Appleton comprised the historic renovation and conversion of a nearly 90-year old building (the former home of the Appleton Post-Crescent newspaper)to 33 unique apartments, and a newly constructed 4-story addition with 36 units. Crystal supplied windows for the new addition; the windows in the original building were preserved. The City Center project at 230 North Main Street in Brillion features 40 apartments in a newly constructed 4-story building. “Crystal has a good reputation with builders throughout the Midwest and northern states for quality manufacturing and a wide selection of products for every type of project,” said Frank Ganninger, Central West Regional Manager. “We have supplied several projects in the past with Northcentral Construction and ABC Supply in the region and were pleased to participate again in new projects with them. We used enhanced glass packages for these windows and doors, making them ideal for the colder northern climate in Wisconsin.” From its Chicago production facility, Crystal Windows supplied 186 window and door products for the City Center project and 157 for the Crescent Lofts building. Both of the new construction projects in Wisconsin used a similar mix of Crystal products. By far, the most common window choice was the energy-efficient Crystal Series 300 Vinyl Single-Hung window. The Series 300 windows were specified in single, twin, and triple units, using the continuous head and sill configuration option for the latter two models. The double and triple units, spanning 5-feet and 7½-feet wide openings, provide extraordinary light and views for the building occupants.In addition to the single-hung windows, Crystal also supplied Series 310 Vinyl Picture windows for both projects. A few Series 320 2-Lite Single Sliding Vinyl windows were specified for the City Center building. All the Series 300 window models feature 2-⅝” jamb depth, integral nailing fin, energy-efficient extruded multi-chamber vinyl frames and sashes, full-welded corners, and ⅞” insulated glass units (IGUs). The Series 300 single-hung is rated R-PG-25/R-PG35, the picture window is rated R-PG45 and the slider is rated R-PG35. Crystal Window & Door Systems recently supplied two new multifamily projects in Wisconsin –Crescent Lofts in Appleton. For the City Center building’s 12 faux-railed balconies, Crystal Series 1500 Vinyl Sliding Patio Doors were used to provide appropriate aesthetics and larger fresh air openings. The Crescent Lofts project also specified a Series 1500 door. The 1500 Sliding Patio Doors have 4-⅝” frame depth with 1” IGUs and feature integral nailing fin and strong full-fusion sash and frame corners, delivering an SGD-R35/LC-PG35 structural performance rating. All the window and door materials were extruded in-house by Crystal in attractive and durable standard white color for City Center and beige for Crescent Lofts Apartments. Double locks were supplied for the operating windows, and some were specified with ADA auto-activating locks. In addition, all the operating windows and doors came factory equipped with Window Opening Control Device (WOCD) limit hardware. Key to the new projects, all the Crystal Series 300 windows used double-pane IGUs comprised of 1/8” Vitro Sungate 460 low-e glass with argon gas. Vitro Sungate 460 is designed especially for northern climates. The highly energy-efficient glass is clear and neutrally reflective in appearance and with its great U-value and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), it is compliant with regional building energy codes and is the perfect choice for Wisconsin winters and summers. Both the City Center Apartments in Brillionand the Crescent Lofts Apartments in Appleton were developed cooperatively with state funding to provide more affordable properties for the residents of these economically challenged communities as they experience rejuvenation. Each apartment development has both market rate and income restricted options for rent in 1-,2-, and 3-bedroom units. Both projects offer onsite underground parking, community and fitness centers, and secure storage facility options. With numerous multifamily, rehab, commercial, and hospitality projects in its portfolio, Northcentral Construction Company of Fond du Lac, WI, was the general contractor for both City Center and Crescent Lofts. ABC Supply of Beloit, WI, supplied the new windows from Crystal. Northpointe Development of Oshkosh, WI, spearheaded the two projects, which join a long list of their other community sensitive developments throughout the region. ACC Management Group provides property management services for the two projects.
New Multifamily High-Rise Targets Sustainability with Crystal Vinyl MAGNUS Windows
Crystal Window & Door Systems recently supplied over 2,400 advanced MAGNUS Series 4500 uPVC vinyl commercial windows for the newly constructed multifamily development Archer Green Apartments in Queens, NY. The project is one of the tallest buildings in North America to use uPVC windows. -Queens NY Project is Among Tallest North American Use of uPVC Vinyl Windows- QUEENS, NY, September 30, 2021 –A newly completed sustainable mixed use multifamily high-rise project in Jamaica, NY, is using advanced uPVC vinyl windows supplied by Crystal Window & Door Systems to achieve their energy efficiency goals. The two towers of the Archer Green Apartments, rising 23 and 20 stories each, used combinations of Crystal MAGNUS Series 4500 uPVC windows to complete the 1,301 building openings. The new development is located in the heart of the Jamaica (Queens) neighborhood at 92-32 168th Street. The Crystal MAGNUS uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows provide a remarkable balance of high commercial window structural ratings, great sound attenuation, and extraordinary thermal efficiency. All of these are important factors as the new building is seeking LEED Gold Certification and it is located just off a busy heavily trafficked Jamaica Avenue. At 23 stories, Archer Green Apartments is Crystal’s tallest MAGNUS window project to date and is one of the tallest buildings to use uPVC windows in North America by any manufacturer. The Crystal Archer Green project is a leading example of the increasing popularity of high-rise uPVC windows. In Europe, uPVC in tall buildings has been common for years. “After the architect considered a heavy-commercial aluminum window, Crystal showed them the MAGNUS uPVC window which offers strength and energy efficiency with a clean modern look,” said Steven Yu, Metro New York Sales Manager. “With advanced testing performed at an independent lab, Crystal demonstrated the MAGNUS would be the perfect solution and all project partners were convinced.” The remarkable Crystal MAGNUS Series 4500 windows offer the best of both worlds: structural performance equal to top aluminum window products while also providing the outstanding thermal performance of vinyl windows. With its European-inspired design, strong durable MAGNUS uPVC windows are especially suitable for large openings in multi-family, commercial, select high-rise, institutional, and even upscale residential properties. Crystal supplied a total of 2,444 MAGNUS Series 4500 In-Swing and Fixed windows outfitted with vision or HVAC louver panels and configured in mulled combinations totaling 1,301 units. Most of the MAGNUS units for the project consisted of reinforced in-swing windows mulled atop window frames fitted with louver panels, and in many cases alongside tall flanking fixed windows. The largest combined units spanned 72” wide by 96” tall. The MAGNUS 4500 In-Swing and Fixed windows both offer 3-¼” jambs, strong, energy efficient multiple cavity sashes and frames and boast an outstanding CW-PG95 AAMA structural rating. The In-Swing casement model’s standard features include quality hardware, multi-point locks, sash perimeter compression seals, and optional NY City code window opening control devices (WOCD). All the MAGNUS windows have a durable High-Definition Finish (HDF), with Anthracite Gray exterior and extruded white interior colors. All the glazed MAGNUS windows for the project used dual-pane 1-¼” insulated glass units (IGUs) fabricated with stainless steel Intercept Warm-Edge spacers and Vitro Solarban 70XL low-E coated glass. The IGUs were Argon-filled for enhanced thermal efficiency and used tempered or laminated glass where required for safety. Both the glazed In-Swing and Fixed MAGNUS window met or exceeded project specifications of U-value 0.26, SHGC 0.37, and VLT 43%. Sound reduction OITC rating specifications ranged from 23db to 33 db, depending on the floor. Another 960 MAGNUS 4500 fixed window frames were factory glazed with louvers and 1” insulated blank-off panels for mating at the jobsite with PTAC units supplying individual room HVAC. The Model AEL-42 aluminum louvers were supplied by Reliable Products of Geneva, AL. The Archer Green Apartments development is playing a key role in the redevelopment of its surrounding neighborhood. An interesting new property, Archer Green blends mixed-income affordable housing, ground floor commercial retail space, and a substantial community facility in the heart of downtown Jamaica, Queens. Totaling 420,000 sq. ft., the building offers 351 apartments in two residential towers and below-grade parking. The 23- and 20-story residential towers rise above a commercial 2-story pedestal which accommodates the retail space and community facility as well as a rooftop terrace and garden area. Targeting LEED Gold Certification, Archer Green features many sustainability features in addition to the Crystal MAGNUS windows, including a novel state-of-the-art on-site Resilient Power Hub (RPH). This micro-grid system combines solar, co-generation, and reserve battery storage to provide electric power for emergency use and to reduce daily operating costs. The Archer Green Apartments project was initiated through the close cooperation of three New York City agencies: the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and the Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD). The project is part of the City’s Jamaica NOW Action Plan to revitalize this bustling commercial and residential neighborhood in Queens. It is built on a site that once held aNew York Police Department parking garage. The owner’s representative was Renewable Construction/Omni NY LLC. Edelman Sulta Knox Wood (ESKW) Architects of New York, NY, was the project architect, and Lettire Construction of New York, NY, was the general contractor. The fenestration installer was Marvel Contracting Service of Queens, NY.
