Fenestration
Fenestration refers to the design and placement of windows, doors, skylights, and other openings in a building. It's a professional term architects and designers use instead of simply saying "windows and doors." The term covers both the actual products (like choosing the right windows) and their arrangement (like deciding where to place them). This is important because these decisions affect natural light, ventilation, energy efficiency, and the overall look of a building. When you see this term in resumes, it usually means the person has experience with planning or working with these building elements.
Examples in Resumes
Optimized fenestration design to achieve 30% energy savings in commercial projects
Created detailed fenestration specifications for LEED-certified office buildings
Managed fenestration system installations for multiple high-rise residential projects
Typical job title: "Fenestration Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Fenestration Specialists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach fenestration design for energy efficiency in different climate zones?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss considering factors like solar heat gain, thermal performance, local weather patterns, and how to balance natural light with energy efficiency. They should mention experience with energy modeling and building codes.
Q: Tell me about a challenging fenestration project you managed and how you solved any issues.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate project management skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of both technical requirements and aesthetic considerations in window and door design.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when selecting windows for a commercial building?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention considerations like budget, energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, building codes, and architectural style. They should understand basic performance ratings and installation requirements.
Q: How do you ensure proper water management in window installations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic understanding of flashing, weatherproofing, drainage systems, and how to prevent water infiltration. Look for practical experience with installation oversight.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic types of windows used in construction?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common window types like casement, double-hung, sliding, and fixed windows, along with basic understanding of their typical applications.
Q: What does U-value mean in window specifications?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding that U-value measures heat transfer through windows and that lower numbers mean better insulation. Basic knowledge of window energy ratings is important.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic window and door types knowledge
- Understanding of architectural drawings
- Familiarity with building codes
- Basic energy efficiency concepts
Mid (2-5 years)
- Window system specification writing
- Installation oversight
- Energy performance calculations
- Project coordination experience
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex project management
- Building envelope integration
- Energy modeling expertise
- Team leadership and client consultation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of current building energy codes
- Lack of experience with architectural drawings
- No understanding of basic window performance metrics
- Unable to explain water management principles
Related Terms
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