Visiting a glazier partner last week, we were discussing Glass + Mirror’s Craft’s focus on Design Assist services – from the understanding we bring to a project to help clarify specifications, to the design engineering we provide right through to stamped drawings, to the project manager we assign for on-demand assistance and to ensure our deliverables are kitted to flow installation.
He then brought up a recent project that convinced us that it is time to offer something more.
Without getting into project specifics: the concrete was poured, the metal was in, and the glass that was specified to attach to the metal was fabricated, delivered on time and budget – and not even close to matching the structural metal. It turns out the metal was not installed to spec, and now the glass cannot be attached. It’s been several months since that discovery without resolution as to who’s responsible for what.
The whole issue could have been avoided if appropriate field measurements were taken before the glass was cut. We all know that 99% of the time there will be an issue with the concrete, the metal, what have you. These things aren’t perfect.
But who’s responsible for field measurements when it comes to installing glass? Unless it’s in the contract, it’s not fair to expect the glazier to check every piece of metal, because they would rather be busy installing and making money.
As a provider of architectural systems, however, we see things differently. For us it makes good business sense to offer field measurements as part of our Design Assist services. At the end of the day, if the glass doesn’t fit to the metal, then we’re the one’s that are not installed. Field measurements avoid delays, save re-cutting the glass, and ensure customer satisfaction. It’s just good business.
We are transforming Glass + Mirror Craft into a premier resource for glaziers – where our strengths in Design Assist services acts to differentiate us nationwide. Last week’s conversation was the tipping point to offer field measurements as part of these services. Look here for more.
