Process – Resources and Insights Guide Guide | YKK AP
Modern glass office building with reflective windows and greenery.

THe ERIE AP PROCESS

From early design assist through production and build support, Erie AP partners with specifiers and contractors to help guide facade systems from concept to completion.

YKK window and door hardware components in a modern building facade.

how we work

From Concept to Curtain Wall

Partnering with Erie AP

Erie AP supports facade projects from early design assist through fabrication, delivery, and field support. Our process helps architects, facade consultants, and glazing contractors move from concept to execution with greater clarity, coordination, and confidence.

From developing shop drawings and sourcing materials to validating system performance and fabricating units under strict quality control, our team manages the critical steps required to deliver complex facade systems.

The 5 Phases of Our Process

Architectural window design plans with technical drawings.

1 – Design Assist

Erie AP engages with architects, facade consultants, and glazing contractors early in the project to help shape the right façade system for each application. Our team collaborates on system selection, preliminary engineering concepts, and constructability considerations to ensure the design aligns with performance goals and project constraints.

During this phase, we support development of system drawings, preliminary calculations, thermal modeling, and early budgeting to help project teams move forward with confidence.

YKK modern building with glass facade and architectural design.

2 – Facade Engineering

Our in-house engineering team develops custom facade solutions that balance architectural intent, structural performance, and real-world constructability. Engineers work closely with project teams to refine system geometry, connections, and detailing.

Support includes structural calculations, shop drawing development, system modeling, and coordination with the broader building envelope team.

Modern glass curtain wall installation by YKK for building facade.

3 – Performance Validation

Performance requirements are confirmed through mockups and testing conducted in our technology center. This capability allows Erie AP to evaluate system performance earlier in the project lifecycle and address potential issues before fabrication begins.

Full-scale mockups can be constructed to validate criteria required for project approval such as water and structural testing.

Worker inspecting glass in factory production line.

4 – Advanced Manufacturing

Erie AP’s manufacturing operations support high-quality production of large-scale facade systems; we are one of the few who can produce panels over 10’ wide x 40’ tall. Precision fabrication processes and disciplined quality control ensure each component is produced to exact specifications.

Our facility incorporates advanced machining and production technology designed to support both complex custom systems and large-volume facade installations.

Industrial worker wearing safety helmet and glasses at work.

5 – Technical Support

Our involvement continues beyond fabrication and delivery. Erie AP works closely with glazing contractors and project teams throughout installation to help address field conditions and maintain alignment with project requirements.

Technical specialists provide ongoing support to ensure the facade system performs as intended from installation through completion.

Office building with glass facade and surrounding greenery.

Contact Us

Ready to Connect?

Tailored solutions begin with your vision.
Whether you’re in the early stages of design or well into your project, Erie AP can help. Our team works closely with architects, façade consultants, and glazing contractors to develop high-performance façade systems tailored to each project’s goals.