How do I know if my glazing design is code compliant?

Whether it is a multistory glass curtain wall or full-lite glass door, glazing design can present challenges in achieving building code compliance. But overcoming these challenges does not have to be difficult.

When navigating glazing code requirements, architects have several resources available to help ensure their glazing designs meet code-driven standards. For example, online tools and document libraries can offer multiple checkpoints for teams to more efficiently meet glazing code requirements, provided teams understand what codes they need to satisfy and which systems meet these requirements.

1. Understand what building codes apply to a glazing application

Often, the first step in meeting glazing code requirements is to understand which ones apply to the glazing systems being used. To do this, design teams are encouraged to check local building codes and clarify any ambiguities with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Local codes are commonly based off the International Building Code (IBC). Using the 2024 edition of these codes as a guide, most fire-rated glazing code requirements can be found in Chapter 7: Fire and Smoke Protection Features. Within this chapter, curtain wall assembly requirements will likely be found in Sections 705 – 710. Window and door glazing code requirements are mostly in Section 716: Opening Protectives.

Beyond fire and life safety, glazing assemblies may need to fulfill other requirements—such as loading minimums, impact-resistance and other considerations. These requirements can be found in Chapter 24 Glass and Glazing in the 2024 IBC.

2. Know how to read a glazing assembly’s fire label

In addition to knowing what glazing codes require, project teams should be able to read a fire-rated glazing assembly’s fire label to ensure it is appropriate for an application. These small unremovable labels pack a lot of information, written in a shorthand described in Table 716.1(1) Marking Fire-Rated Glazing Assemblies in the 2024 IBC.

To support design teams in decoding fire labels, Technical Glass Products (TGP) has an interactive IBC Label Guide. This resource explains the markings on the label and shows where they can be found.

3. Consult with a trusted manufacturer to double-check efficiencies

It is important to note that glazing code requirements detail the baseline minimums for glass performance. They do not offer prescriptive paths for fulfillment.

However, finding code-compliant and aesthetically aligned solutions does not have to be a solitary endeavor. Collaborating with proven manufacturers can help them engineer code-compliant glazing assemblies. This can help project teams find glazing solutions from the start or even offer crucial feedback to ensure a design optimizes material use for code compliance, occupant comfort and project scope.

TGP can help your team get started with solution hubs based on application, market and requirement. These resources, along with expert guidance, can streamline the design and specification of fire-rated glazing systems.