A structurally sound and energy-efficient curtainwall from Wausau Window and Wall Systems, of Wausau, Wis., is being installed in the Des Moines Federal Building. The new system was designed to adhere to heightened security measures mandated by the U.S. government while maintaining the aesthetics of the architect's design.

Once the General Services Administration (GSA) determined that replacing the Federal Building's façade was the only way to fix the building's leaks, it decided to renovate the entire exterior of the 11 story building using energy-efficient technology. According to a press release from Wausau, custom systems were developed for all sides of the building. The building's east and west sides feature a modified RX series window wall, while the south elevation displays an 8-inch deep unitized system with 3-inch covers and factory-glazed Alpolic panels that were manufactured to match the field-installed panels of other elevations. The custom stacking, vertically glazed curtainwall used on the north side of the building features a 12- by 6-inch reveal.

"The tenants are very excited about the renovation," said Dan Keagle, project manager for contractor Neumann Bros. "Not only will the building be more structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing, but the new system will also eliminate the leakage problems and allow more light to enter the offices."

Des Moines Federal Building's exterior and interior upgrades are scheduled for completion this fall.