iBDC prides itself on supporting clients in markets that few other consulting firms participate in. Our clients trust our specialized knowledge, which extends beyond traditional windows and doors and includes other significant areas of the building industry.
Window and door markets around the world each present unique characteristics and challenges. From aesthetics to energy efficiency to security, product demand may vary region to region even within the same country. iBDC has decades of experience working with window and door manufacturers, contractors, and testing labs throughout North America and Europe, giving us an extensive and accurate perspective on the bigger picture. Our clients benefit from our genuine understanding of the interaction between specific windows, doors, sliding systems and their target markets.
Glass facades are one of the most essential aspects of the building envelope. From window wall and punched openings to unitized and stick built curtain wall, we understand the applications for different products and systems. As some major U.S. cities have begun implementing strict energy efficiency initiatives that may limit the use of glass on the building envelope, manufacturers must create and implement new solutions that will safeguard the use of glass going forward. Our work enables manufacturers to apply sound market intelligence in developing their product strategies for new markets and future opportunities.
Specialized high-security projects in public and private sectors have strict requirements for which window and door products may be used. Such requirements include Department of State (DOS) FE/BR certified products for government buildings such as embassies, courthouses, federal buildings, other GSA facilities, and non-government security ratings such as NIJ and UL 752 for private building, schools, police stations, and certain public buildings. As a result of current events, iBDC is seeing more opportunities for security windows and doors to be used in everyday projects. We are helping manufacturers broaden their view on the security market and integrate these projects into their regular scope of work.
We continuously monitor upcoming trends in the window and door industry and the building industry as a whole. Europe, Canada, and Australia have been home to green building (living wall, green façade, green wall) projects for some time, yet they have only begun to emerge at scale in the U.S. market in recent years. This segment is growing rapidly as developers and architects have embraced green living and green construction philosophy. Living green walls and green roofs offer remarkable aesthetics and incredible energy-efficient properties and health benefits for building occupants. The green building segment will be a key theme at the centre of a growing number of projects throughout the globe going forward, especially in North America. Our team has experienced the growing interest in green building, and we are ready to provide support for this exciting market.
Manufacturers of windows, doors, and other building products that want to enter the Florida and Texas markets face a unique challenge because of the strict certifications to achieve hurricane impact ratings. The Miami-Dade NOA in Florida is among the most stringent window and door certifications to achieve globally. The FBC (Florida Building Code) and TDI (Texas Department of Insurance) certifications, while not considered as rigorous as the Miami-Dade NOA, still require manufacturers to undertake specific testing. Products that are sold in these markets must undergo impact testing which may include small missile impact and large missile impact tests while maintaining a high level of design pressure performance. For some manufacturers, the additional requirements of these markets may pose significant barriers to entry. With over ten years of direct experience in hurricane impact products, our team is ready to help manufacturers navigate difficulties and guide them toward success in these markets.