 OWATONNA, Minn. – May 13, 2008 – Viracon, the nation’s leading single-source architectural glass fabricator, is making it easier than ever to add silk-screened ceramic frit to a project. Based on customer feedback and ordering trends, the company has expanded its Viraspan Design standard silk-screen patterns to include 14 different designs.
“In the past, we offered three standard patterns: lines, dots and holes,” says Brad Austin, senior vice president at Viracon. “However, many of our silk-screen orders were custom designs. After reviewing these custom orders, we discovered that many were similar variations of dots, lines and holes. To simplify the ordering process and save our customers from the expense of a custom order, we expanded our standard offering.”
The Viraspan silk-screen pattern offering now includes 14 standard patterns. The eight patterns in the “lines” series and six patterns in the “dots and holes” series offer a range of coverage from 20 to 60 percent. After selecting a pattern, customers can choose from 14 standard ceramic frit colors or incorporate a custom frit color to create a tailored look.
Of course, custom designs are still welcome. Through the Viraspan Design-Plus program, clients can select a standard pattern but define specific orientation requirements. The Viraspan Design – Original program allows clients to design a custom pattern, border and graduation.
In addition to expanding the standard pattern offering, Viracon has also simplified the quote and pricing process for silk-screened glass. “We are continuing to see an increase in use of silk-screening in glass design, as customers seek enhanced aesthetics and energy performance,” says Austin. “By expanding our standard offerings and simplifying our pricing system, we’re trying to make it as easy as possible for customers to get the look they’re seeking as easily as possible.”
Viracon recommends incorporating both the silk-screen pattern and solar-controlling coating on the same surface. This allows both the ceramic frit and all of Viracon’s coatings, such as VRE or VNE, to be applied to the number two surface of an insulating unit for optimum solar performance, along with glare reduction and light-play. Sealed air space protects the ceramic frit and coating for easy maintenance while maintaining a position as close to the sun as possible for maximum effectiveness.
For additional information or to request a Viraspan Design brochure, visit www.viracon.com, email glass@viracon.com or call 800-533-2080.
About Viracon
Viracon, based in Owatonna, Minn., has a second plant in Statesboro Georgia and opened a new plant in St. George, Utah in spring, 2007. The company is an international company of Apogee Enterprises, Inc. Viracon produces high-performance glass products, including tempered, laminated, insulating, silk-screened and high-performance coatings. Apogee Enterprises, Inc. is a leading fabricator, distributor and installer of value-added glass products and systems. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company’s stock is traded on NASDAQ under the symbol APOG.
Contact Information:
Christine Shaffer, Marketing Manager
Viracon
800-533-2080 ext. 3490
cshaffer@viracon.com
Janet Ryan, Ryan PR
314-822-8860
janet@ryan-pr.com
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