Key principle: CRF (condensation resistance factor)

As researchers continue to discover the benefits of natural daylighting in the healing process, fenestration performance is at the forefront of importance in healthcare facility design. At the same time, studies are ongoing about the effects on health of excessive water vapor and interior air quality. In the Christiana Hospital expansion project, condensation resistance was the key performance requirement in the glazing systems. Knowing that in a sterile environment mold is a vile enemy, the architect chose the Kawneer 1600 Wall System® with a J.E. Berkowitz, L.P. insulating glass unit incorporating Warm-Light® by Azon warm-edge spacer for all patient rooms. In doing so, the system achieved a condensation resistance factor (CRF) of 71 ensuring healthy surroundings for all of the hospital's patients. Other fenestration sections of the facility consist of Kawneer's Trifab® VG (VersaGlaze® 451T (thermal) framing system that utilizes a pour and debridge thermal barrier with the same J.E. Berkowitz, L.P. insulating glass unit with Warm-Light® spacer-optimizing both thermal performance and condensation resistance.