At the latest Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) conference, experts highlighted two major developments shaping the future of glass and building envelope systems: climate resilience and advanced weathering performance.
Glass and Climate Resilience
Alan Scott, speaking for Intertek Building and Construction, presented on the integration of resilience in design, emphasizing the importance of new tools like LEED v5 and ASTM E3429-24 for Property Resilience Assessment (PRA). With rising climate threats, Scott outlined how glazing systems must now support safety, integrity, and ongoing functionality.
His PRA framework, hazard screening, vulnerability assessment, and resilience measures, is especially relevant for glass façades and curtain wall systems in high-risk environments. LEED v5 now offers credits for enhanced resilient site and space design, reinforcing the role of glass in sustainable architecture. 
Weathering Study for Architectural Coatings
Sean Fowler of Q-Lab shared findings from a five-year fluoropolymer coating study led by SSPC Subcommittee C.1.8. Testing over 1,000 samples across 13 coating systems, the study evaluated durability through natural and accelerated weathering.
Results confirmed that matching UV dosage in accelerated tests to real conditions yields better predictions. White coatings showed dirt and microbial build-up, influencing colour and gloss retention, key concerns for long-term façade performance.
Together, these insights help glass and coating manufacturers meet evolving demands for durability and climate-readiness, driving innovation across the built environment.
Source: FGIAonline.org with additional information added by Glass Balkan
