For architects & builders · Bring me in early
Architects who specify European tilt-and-turn or premium European entrance doors on Calgary projects often find that the installer relationship gets sorted at framing — too late to flag rough-opening geometry issues, deflection clearance requirements, or flashing-sequence compatibility with the wall assembly. I'd rather be on the call 4-6 months earlier. The drawings can lock in cleanly, the production schedule aligns, and framing inspection passes without revisions.
The technical depth your spec package needs. Plus the email address you can send shop drawings to for installer review before bid release.
Cross-sections
Schematic cross-sections of the systems most commonly specified on Calgary projects. Frame depth, chamber count, reinforcement type, glazing build, seal placement.
Product tech
Full technology breakdown — tier comparisons, RAU-FIPRO composite reinforcement, multi-point lock mechanics, security ratings per EN 1627.
Install spec
Which method, when, and why — including rough-opening prep, deflection clearance, flashing sequence, AB Building Code §9.7 and CSA A440.4 compliance.
Door spec
Steel-reinforced slab construction, multi-point locking, EPDM compression seals, high-performance glazing options. Cost range, configuration options, lead times.
External · Manufacturer
Manufacturer technical bulletins, BIM models, AAMA test reports, NFRC ratings, sustainability documentation.
External · Code
Current edition for window-relevant sections: §9.7 (windows + glazing), §9.6 (safety glazing), §9.9.10.1 (egress dimensioning), §5.10 (thermal performance).
The list below is what tends to come up when I review architect-issued drawings before bid release. Catching them at drawings saves a contract change order later.
If mullions run under a ridge beam or above a continuous header, 12-15mm head clearance + deflection head channel needs to be specified. Otherwise standard install crushes the top seal within 3 winters.
REHAU frames need ±2mm plumb/level, diagonals within 6mm. If the rough-opening detail allows builder-grade ±5mm framing, the install crew is going to spend 90 minutes per opening re-shimming, and your timeline drifts.
Arched, trapezoid, and oversized profiles have specific shop-drawing requirements. Some shapes don't fabricate in Brilliant Design (need Synego or Artevo). A 15-minute call at shop drawings prevents a "we can't make this" notification 6 weeks before delivery.
The wall assembly's water-resistive barrier needs to lap correctly over the head flashing. Bottom first (sill pan integrates with WRB) → sides → head last (WRB above laps over head tape, never under). I'll review the section detail and flag any cross-laps.
Bedroom windows below the 4th floor need an openable area ≥0.35 m² with no dimension less than 380mm clear-pass. Tilt-and-turn meets it but only when the spec'd hardware allows full opening. I'll verify each bedroom unit against code dimensioning.
Glazing within 600mm of finished floor OR within 300mm of a door needs to be tempered or laminated. I'll flag any drawings where standard annealed glass is specified in a zone that should be safety glass.
Calgary residential = Exposure B for most of city. Acreage projects in foothills exposure = C — different fastener pattern. Drawings often specify the city default; I'll flag if the project is acreage.
REHAU lead time runs 10-14 weeks for standard, 14-18 for custom shapes. If framing is targeted for the end of month X and windows aren't ordered until month X-2, there's a delivery gap. Production calendar lock matters.
Drawings ready for shop-drawing review? Send them by email. I'll return a list of items worth confirming before bid release — a free written quote, no obligation.
Email lex@permasol.ca →