In façade and glazing projects, compliance is never optional. Building codes, safety standards, structural requirements, and manufacturer specifications form the backbone of a project’s success. Yet many issues encountered on job sites trace back to one source: detailing mistakes made early in the design or shop-drawing process.

Small oversights—missing sealant clearances, inconsistent waterproofing transitions, incorrect glass thickness, or unverified load calculations—can quickly escalate into major compliance failures. When these errors reach fabrication or installation, they lead to delays, change orders, and costly rework. Worse, they can jeopardize performance testing or even violate building and safety codes.

The most common pitfalls include:

• Improper coordination between trades (façade, steel, mechanical), causing conflicts at anchors or embeds

• Missing or incorrect movement allowances leading to sealant failure or glass breakage

• Incorrect firestopping or perimeter insulation details, risking code violations

• Misaligned system references when catalog details don’t match real project conditions

• Overlooking tolerance stacking, especially in unitized or modular construction

• Failure to follow manufacturer limitations, particularly for structural silicone, hardware, or thermal components

Avoiding these pitfalls requires rigorous checking, proactive communication, and early collaboration between engineers, drafters, and fabricators. A well-prepared set of shop drawings remains one of the most effective tools to ensure code compliance and smooth execution.