Section TM-3000-S8.

0: GLAZING SYSTEMS
IGMA
North American Glazing Guidelines
For Sealed Insulating Glass Units for EFFECTIVE DATE:
Commercial and Residential Use REVISION: 2.0
February 23, 2007

TM-3000-90(04)

GLAZING SYSTEMS

8.1 Structural Glazing

Structural glazing or stopless glazing, where the unit is retained only by a silicone
sealant / adhesive joint requires special care in design and execution. It must be
understood that a seal failure of a unit glazed without exterior stops could result
in the exterior lite falling from the building. The following factors should be
considered in the design and installation of units for stopless glazing.

8.1.1 The adhesion characteristics of the silicone sealants used must be tested
with the corresponding spacers, corners, frame members and glass with
any applied coatings. Tests should be repeated with each batch of
component materials.

8.1.2 The compatibility of all components in contact with each other including
glazing sealants, unit assembly sealants, setting blocks, gaskets and joint
backers must be verified with component suppliers.

8.1.3 Sealant selection must withstand long term weathering effects including
solar ultra-violet radiation, temperature extremes and water exposure.
Note that many sealants which are satisfactory for conventional glazing
are not capable of meeting these criteria.

8.1.4 Approximately 50% of the negative wind load on the unit is normally
carried by the insulating glass sealants. In the event of insulating glass
seal failure (see figure 8.1, Item 8) or inner lite breakage (see Figure 8,1,
Item 10) an increase of the negative load could be imposed on the
insulating glass sealants. Reference ASTM C 1249, Standard Guide for
Secondary Sealed Insulating Glass Units for Structural Glazing
Applications.

8.1.5 The insulating glass unit assembly sealant and the structural silicone
sealant must accommodate all movements of the structural frame and
glass caused by wind, live and dead load deflection and thermal
expansion.

8.1.6 Seals at the edges of the exterior glass components are weather seals
and their width and elasticity must be such that excessive stresses are
not transferred to the insulating glass units.

February 2007 Glazing Systems TM-3000-S8.01

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
 Setting blocks may have to be modified to suit the framing system but
must be suitable for their intended function. (See Section 5.0)

8.1.7 Heat strengthened glass should be used for the offset unit at a corner
condition. (See Figure 8.1)

Figure 8.1 Structural Glazing (Off-set Corner Detail)

Nomenclature
1. Mullion – Structural sealant adhesion to be
confirmed with sealant manufacturer.
2. Stiffener – If needed.
3. Spacer block – 50 to 70 durometer, minimum
of 3 mm (1/8 in) from glass edge, compatibility
to the structural silicone sealant to be
confirmed with the sealant manufacturer.
4. Structural silicone – Type and dimensional
requirements to be determined by sealant
manufacturer.
5. Silicone weather seal – Type and dimensional
requirements to be determined by the sealant
manufacturer.
6. Backing rod – Closed cell polyethylene, 50 to
70 durometer. Have the compatibility of the
backing rod to the insulating glass edge seal
and the weather seal verified by the sealant
suppliers.
7. Insulating glass spacer.
8. Insulating glass edge seal – Direct contact
with weather or structural seal to be avoided.
9. Outside glass surface.
10. Inside glass surface – Surface may be coated
or opacified, compatibility and adhesion to the
structural sealant to be verified by sealant
manufacturer.
11. Insulating glass extended edge – For aesthetic
appearance only, non-load bearing.

8.2 Butt Glazing

Butt glazing or stopless glazing without a supporting vertical mullion is not

recommended for units unless it can be shown that the glass is stiff enough to
avoid the high shear stresses on the unit sealant which could be caused by
normal wind loads and which lead to seal failure. Consult the insulating glass
manufacturer.

8.3 Dry Glazing

Dry Glazing is the common designation for the portion of the glazing system that
utilizes a non-mastic compound as the seal between the glass and frame.
Common dry glazing systems may utilize foam tapes, or extruded rubber gaskets
as the sealing material. The amount of compression and the type of sealing
TM-3000-S8.02 Glazing Systems February 2007

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
 material determines reliability against possible water infiltration into the glazing
cavity. The ponding of water in a glazing system is highly detrimental to the
longevity of insulating glass seals. Weep systems should be employed to
prevent water ponding in the glazing cavity. Compatibility of the dry glazing
materials with insulating glass sealants should be confirmed through testing by
the sealant manufacturer.

Dry glazing includes the following types: compression seals; structural gaskets
(zipper or lock-strip gaskets); vinyl or marine wrap glazing; foam tapes.

8.3.1 Compression Seals.

Compression seal gasket glazing systems use dense and/or sponge

gaskets to achieve a compression seal. Possible gasketing combinations
may be dense/dense, sponge/dense, and sponge/sponge combinations.
Sponge gaskets are softer than dense gaskets and tend to take up a
greater amount of deviation due to frame and glazing tolerances.

Tolerances exist on all major glazing components including glass,

gaskets, aluminum, wood, fiberglass and vinyl. Tolerances can
accumulate and cause major problems, glass may not fit, gaskets may
not seal. Check with the manufacturers of these products to verify
individual tolerances.

Another item for consideration, which may affect sealing ability, is the
possibility of bow, warp and twist of sash members.

Molded and/or vulcanized corners are available in extruded gaskets.

Molded corners reduce the possibility of water penetration at the corners,
which is normally the weakest point in the system. If molded corners are
not used, caulking may be required in the corners. Weep systems are
essential with any compression glazing system.

Gaskets should be sized longer than the length needed. If the gaskets
are stretched during installation, they may return to their original length
causing gaps at the corners. Refer to the individual gasket manufacturer
for their recommendations.

Sponge or dense gasket systems may require special installation

procedures to attain proper compression forces evenly distributed around
the glass edge. Consult the manufacturer for proper procedures.

8.3.2 Structural Gaskets.

Structural gaskets, also frequently called Zipper Gaskets or Lock-Strip

Gaskets, are preformed, cured elastomeric mechanical seals used to
install glass (or solid panels) in a supporting framework. They are made
in two pieces, a main body that holds the glass (or infill material) in place
and a wedge-like continuous locking strip that is inserted into a recess in

February 2007 Glazing Systems TM-3000-S8.03

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
 the main body thus bringing pressure to bear upon the surface of the
glass.

Some structural gasket systems use straight lengths of extruded gasket

material, which can be cut to length and assembled in the field using an
adhesive to join the corners. Most structural gasket systems however,
are preformed in the factory as continuous closed frames that are then
joined in the field with an adhesive.

The gasket should be made at least 1% larger than the opening into
which it is to be installed so it is under slight linear compression.

The frame into which the gasket is installed should be clean, smooth and
free of imperfections. Corner offsets of the frame should not exceed 1
mm (1/32 in). All frame joinery must be sealed.

Glass size and opening size are critical when setting in metal or wood.
Lip pressure and bite are extremely important in achieving weather-
tightness. Close attention must be given to tolerances of framing, gasket
and glass to achieve a weather-tight installation.

Many insulating glass fabricators require a supplemental exterior wet seal

to be used for structural gasket installation as well as a weep system.
Weep holes are required.

8.3.3 Vinyl Boot Glazing

Vinyl Boot Glazing (Wrap-Around Marine Glazing) material is available in

rolls or strips which are cut to be wrapped around the perimeter length of
the insulating glass unit. As a common practice, the vinyl boot is clipped
at the corner to fit. Framing members are then pressed into position over
the boot. These framing members are then joined and fastened at the
corners.

Since the vinyl boot wraps around the edge of the insulating glass unit, it
may and usually does come in direct contact with the insulating glass
edge sealant. Therefore compatibility must be checked. It should not be
assumed the materials are compatible. The insulating glass
manufacturer or the sealant manufacturer should conduct the tests.

The vinyl boot is extruded as a continuous strip. Weep holes, a minimum

of 10 mm (3/8 in) in diameter, are essential and should be punched
through the section that covers the bottom edge area of the IG unit. They
should be spaced at 100 mm (4 in) to 150 mm (6 in) on center around the
perimeter of the insulating glass unit. The frame system weeping along
with the vinyl boot system weeping should be designed to adequately
drain moisture from the system. Clipping the corners does not provide an
adequate, positive weep system. Setting blocks may have to be modified

TM-3000-S8.04 Glazing Systems February 2007

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
 to suit the framing system but must be suitable for their intended function.
(See section 5.0)

8.3.4 Foam Tape

Foam tapes are extruded closed cell foam material of various densities.
These tapes are available in various dimensions and normally packaged
in rolls. A pressure sensitive adhesive is applied to one or both sides of
the foam tape.

Proper compression of the foam tape and sealing of the cut and butt joint
corners is necessary to achieve air and watertight seals.

For more detailed information regarding correct usage of foam tapes

contact the foam tape manufacturers.

8.4 Typical Glazing Details

Figure 8.2

1. PRE-SHIM TAPE, with continuous 6. WEEP or VENT HOLES, for

embedded shim. drainage and venting

2. GLAZING TAPE, preformed extruded 7. SPACER SHIMS neoprene, silicone,

sealants, butyl etc. EPDM, or thermoplastic elastomer
40 to 60 durometer Shore “A”.
3. SEALANT, gun grade, various types
available 8. THERMAL BREAK, extruded PVC,
rigid polyurethane, etc.
4. GLAZING GASKET, extruded neoprene,
silicone EPDM, PVC or thermoplastic 9. Flex fin(s), generally co-extruded
elastomer flexible PVC.

5. SETTING BLCOKS, neoprene, silicone, 10.Insulating Glass spacer and edge

EPDM or thermoplastic elastomer 80 to seal
90 durometer Shore “A”

February 2007 Glazing Systems TM-3000-S8.05

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
Figure 8.3 Figure 8.4

Figure 8.5 Figure 8.6

TM-3000-S8.06 Glazing Systems February 2007

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
Figure 8.7

Figure 8.8 Figure 8.9

February 2007 Glazing Systems TM-3000-S8.07

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
Figure 8.10 Figure 8.11

8.5 Glass Type and Thickness

Glass type and thickness shall be based upon CAN/CGSB 12.20 Structural
Design of Glass in Building and the National Building Code of Canada or ASTM
E 1300 Standard Practice for Determining Load Resistance of Glass in Buildings,
as determined by code jurisdiction. In Canada, glass type and thickness can be
determined using IGMA’s computer program Glass Design. Similar programs
are available in the United States.

Figure 8.12 Edge Characteristics of Cut Glass

FLARE – Sharp protrusion at SCORE – Furrow made by the glass

junction of edge and glass cutting tool.
surface. Susceptible to damage.

BEVEL – Edge that is not WINGS – Glass flakes originating on

perpendicular to surfaces. each side of the score. They may fly out
(Formation of shark teeth, under excessive wheel pressure.
serration, hackle, flare, and
bevel depend upon score
opening technique.)
CONVOLUTIONS – Smooth, rolling
surfaces on edge of glass. Not a
weakening factor.
FLAKE CHIPS – Smooth
shallow chips.
SHARK TEETH – Dagger-like
imperfections which start from scored
surface. Breakage possibility increases
as depth, roughness, and number of
shark teeth increases.
V-CHIPS – Rough penetrating
chips. SHERRATION HACKLE – Edge
imperfections, usually perpendicular to
glass surface, which occur at surface
opposite score. Breakage possibility
increases as density and depth
increases.
Diagram courtesy of PPG Industries Inc., TD119 – Guidelines For Cut Edge Quality
Note: Diagrams are not intended to supersede the quality specifications of the glass manufacturer.

TM-3000-S8.08 Glazing Systems February 2007

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
8.6 Preglazing Considerations

8.6.1 Manufacturers Shop Drawing Review

Project glazing shop drawings or window system details should be

submitted to the insulating glass manufacturer and sealant manufacturer
for review and comments.

The glass fabricator should be consulted concerning glass construction,

strength, and compliance with specifications and glazing details.

The sealant manufacturer should be consulted for assurances of sealant

compatibility and strength, approval of spacer materials, and for
recommendations on optimum joint configuration and proper adhesion to
glass and support members.

8.6.2 Pre-Installation Procedures Meeting

Prior to glazing, application guidelines from the insulating glass unit

manufacturer, sealant or other glazing material suppliers should be
reviewed with the site glaziers or shop personnel setting the glass in
window systems.

8.6.3 Sash Inspection

As glazing begins, fabrication tolerances as previously discussed must be

checked. (See Framing Section 3.1).

The glazing channel must be free of debris and obstructions. Weep holes
must be open and free of obstructions.

Glazing surfaces must be free of moisture, dirt, grease, oil and other
contaminating materials.

Screws, bolts, rivets or weld fillets must not protrude into the glazing
channel to reduce the minimum required face or edge clearances.

All joinery, connectors, screws or bolt heads, rivets and water dams must
be effectively sealed.

All steel or wood glazing rabbets and contact areas of dissimilar materials
must be effectively primed.

Setting blocks, weep baffles and edge blocks must be properly located in
the glazing channels.

February 2007 Glazing Systems TM-3000-S8.09

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Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.
 8.6.4 Glass Inspection

The insulating glass units should be measured for proper dimensions,

recognizing manufacturer published tolerances.

Glass edges, sealant uniformity and coating quality should be inspected

according to the glass manufacturers guidelines. Figure 8.12 provides
information concerning glass edge quality.

The manufacturer should set questionable glass aside for inspection.

8.6.5 Breather or Capillary Tubes

Consult the insulating glass manufacturer for proper installation

procedures for units that have breather or capillary tubes.

8.7 Sloped Glazing

Refer to TB-3001(01): IGMA Guidelines for Sloped Glazing

TM-3000-S8.10 Glazing Systems February 2007

The information contained in this document is the exclusive property of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers
Alliance. Reproduction of any part of this document is strictly prohibited.