Glass associations based in Ontario have found common ground with British Columbia and Alberta and now have an Ontario version of the Glazing Systems Specifications Manual of standards and practices.

The Glazing Systems Specifications Manual (Ontario Version) is a comprehensive reference to architectural aluminum and glass products, as well as technology, building code requirements and relevant design and performance issues. It is directed towards several audiences including architects and specifiers, offering aid in understanding and specifying the kinds of products supplied and installed by sub-contractors. For contractors working in the glass and metal industry, it serves as a reference guide to related issues that affect their suppliers and customers.

The manual concept was created by the Glazing Contractors of British Columbia. The manual was then adjusted by the Alberta glass associations to serve that provinces building and construction market.

In 2005, provincial glass associations in Ontario also saw common ground in bringing to the Ontario building industry what has proven to be for western provinces and excellent reference to assist all stakeholders in the construction process.

The Architectural Glass & Metal Contractors Association (AGMCA) and the Ontario Glass & Metal Association (OGMA) agreed to this joint effort to bring to fruition a Glazing Systems Specifications Manual for Ontario.

With the guidance of one of the most respected industry experts, John Mastrofini, P. Eng., the task of altering the British Columbia and Alberta manuals for use in Ontario began. Mr. Mastrofini engaged a number of other specifiers and designers in the project to assist in producing a current and relevant reference guide that maintained uniformity with the British Columbia and Alberta manuals.

Each chapter of the manual is devoted to relevant sections of CSC’s (Construction Specifications Canada) MasterFormat™ and consists of commentary followed by a guide specification. The commentary offers a broad discussion of issues relevant to the specifier and glazing contractor. The guide specifications are more detailed than a typical construction specification. They serve a didactic role, highlighting the relevant issues raised in the commentary and showing how they can be addressed in a specification.

To order the Glazing Systems Specification Manual (Ontario Version) contact the offices of either the Ontario Glass & Metal Association or the Architectural Glass & Metal Contractors Association or download the Glazing Manual Order Form. The manual is available to both members and non-members of the associations.