Best Structural Systems and Glazing Products of 2025
Architects and builders continue to look for products that support energy efficiency, faster installation, and better long-term performance. The 2025 selections in structural systems and glazing include a net zero prefabricated mass-timber building solution, a new wood-structure connector system, and bird-friendly glass products designed to reduce collisions while preserving views.
Structural Systems and Components
Core: Net Zero Mass-Timber Prefabricated Solution
Core is a net zero mass-timber prefabricated housing and commercial solution from CABN. It is delivered as a flat-pack kit of parts, which includes cross-laminated timber panels, a full building envelope with R-40 insulation, high-performance windows and doors, and solar panels.
CABN offers Core in several model sizes, ranging from 105 square feet to 2,500 square feet. For homeowners, property owners, and small commercial users, that range suggests the system can support different project scales, from compact units to larger buildings.
Products like this are often of interest to teams looking for a more streamlined building package with envelope components designed to work together. As with any prefabricated system, qualified professionals should review site conditions, local codes, and installation requirements before planning a project.
HDUE + SABR by Simpson Strong-Tie
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced a new holdown and anchor bolt combination: HDUE and SABR. According to the company, the pair is intended to be versatile and efficient across numerous foundation types.
The system is designed to reduce the number of screws typically used to secure shear walls and wall panels in wood construction, while also allowing for higher load capacities.
For builders and property managers, connection hardware matters because it affects structural performance, construction speed, and consistency. Any structural fastening system should be specified and installed by qualified professionals who understand the building design and load requirements.
Glazing Products
Bird Guard by Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope
Bird Guard is a bird-friendly glass product from Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope. It is engineered to reduce bird collisions while maintaining clear views, which can be important for buildings with large areas of glazing.
The product can be used as an individual lite or as part of a laminated and insulated unit. Available pane sizes range from 14" × 14" to 96" × 172".
For apartment buildings, office spaces, and commercial properties, bird-friendly glazing can be a practical option where visibility, façade design, and environmental considerations all matter. Product selection should always be reviewed with glazing professionals to confirm compatibility with the project’s window or curtain wall system.
BirdSmart by Vitro
Vitro’s BirdSmart is a laser-etched glass product listed by the American Bird Conservancy as a tool for reducing bird collisions. The panes are ¼" thick and can be made in sizes up to 130" × 240".
The product is compatible with several Vitro offerings, including low-iron and low-E glass. That makes it relevant for projects where clarity, light transmission, and thermal performance need to be balanced with bird-safety goals.
Why These Products Matter
- Energy efficiency: Prefabricated envelope systems and insulated glazing can help support better thermal performance.
- Comfort: Well-designed windows, doors, and insulation contribute to more stable indoor conditions.
- Durability: Structural connectors and engineered glass products are intended to improve long-term reliability when properly specified.
- Environmental responsibility: Bird-friendly glazing can help reduce collisions, especially on buildings with large glass areas.
- Construction efficiency: Factory-made components and integrated systems may simplify project planning and coordination.
What Homeowners and Property Managers Should Consider
- Check whether the system is suitable for the building type and site conditions.
- Confirm compatibility with existing framing, façade systems, and openings.
- Ask about window and door performance as part of the full envelope, not as standalone items.
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