Why the submittal process matters for glazing lead times
Curtainwall has a fabrication lead time of 10–18 weeks from release-to-fab. Storefront runs 6–10 weeks. ACG cannot release material to fabrication until the shop drawings are approved. If the submittal review cycle runs long — because the package was incomplete, or because a re-submittal cycle was required — the entire schedule slips. The submittal process is not a paper exercise; it is the gating event for the entire glazing scope.
ACG's practice is to submit a complete, first-rate package on the first cycle. A well-prepared submittal clears review in one cycle. A sloppy or incomplete submittal cycles back, costs 2–3 weeks, and forces the schedule.
Submittal package contents — full list
| Document | What it covers | Required for |
|---|---|---|
| Shop drawings | Frame plan, elevations, details, anchor conditions, glass bite | All systems |
| Glazing schedule | All openings: mark, size, frame type, glass makeup, hardware | All systems |
| Product data sheets | Manufacturer's published product data for framing, glass, hardware, sealants | All systems |
| Florida Product Approval (FPA) | State-level product approval listing for each assembly | FBC projects (non-HVHZ) |
| Miami-Dade NOA cover sheets | NOA packet for each frame + glass + anchor assembly | HVHZ projects |
| PE anchor calculations | Signed-sealed structural engineering for all anchor conditions | Curtainwall; required by FBC |
| PE frame engineering report | Signed-sealed framing analysis for spans exceeding span chart limits | Non-standard spans |
| Mockup spec / test plan | Location, size, construction method, and test standard for mock-up assembly | When spec or AHJ requires |
| AAMA 502 test plan | Field water test procedure and schedule | When required by spec |
| Sample schedule | Physical samples of frame finish, glass, sealant color | When spec calls for samples |
| Warranty documentation | Manufacturer's warranty terms and periods | Usually at closeout; sometimes at submittal |
Submittal timeline — typical schedule
Week 1–2: Pre-submission preparation
ACG receives approved RFI responses and confirmed project information (slab-to-slab dimensions, anchor conditions, finalized glass spec). We begin shop drawing production and coordinate with the manufacturer's detailer for custom conditions. Glazing schedule is drafted parallel to shop drawings.
Week 3–4: PE engineering and NOA assembly
Anchor calculations are sent to the PE for stamping. On HVHZ projects, the NOA packets are pulled and confirmed against the final frame/glass/anchor combination. Product data sheets are compiled. Sample submittal is assembled and transmitted to GC.
Week 4–6: Architect review (first cycle)
Typical architect review is 10–14 calendar days for standard glazing, 14–21 days for curtainwall. If the submittal includes PE engineering for the EOR's review, add 5–10 days. Procore tracks the review clock and ACG escalates if the return date passes.
Week 6–8: Second cycle if required (resubmit)
If the architect returns comments requiring revision, ACG addresses every comment with a response matrix, revises drawings, and resubmits. A clean second submittal typically clears in 7–14 days. ACG tracks the revision clouds to show exactly what changed between cycles.
Week 8+: Approved drawings — release to fabrication
With approved drawings in hand, ACG releases the order to the manufacturer. Fabrication lead times begin from this date. On a 14-week curtainwall, that puts delivery 14 weeks out from approval — building the case for a well-run submittal process as early as possible.
FBC vs HVHZ — submittal differences
FBC (non-HVHZ) submittal requirements
Outside Miami-Dade and Broward (the HVHZ), Florida commercial glazing requires Florida Product Approval (FPA). FPA documentation shows the state approval listing number, the approved assembly configuration, and the applicable test standards. Shop drawings reference the FPA number and confirm the installed assembly matches the approved configuration. PE anchor calcs are still required for curtainwall.
HVHZ submittal requirements
Inside the HVHZ, every assembly must hold a Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance. The submittal includes the full NOA packet for each assembly, with NOA number, approved configuration, and product approval parameters. The shop drawings must show that the installed assembly matches the NOA-listed configuration. HVHZ permits may also require a third-party special inspector to verify compliance during installation. ACG works with approved HVHZ inspectors on every Miami-Dade and Broward project.
Submittal coordination points with other trades
Glazing submittals intersect with three other trade submittals: structural steel (embed plates and anchor conditions), caulking / waterproofing (sealant type and joint design), and door hardware (hollow metal frame prep and hardware blocking). ACG coordinates submittals with these trades before submitting to avoid re-submission cycles caused by conflicts discovered during the architect's review.
Frequently asked questions
What does a commercial glazing submittal package include?
Shop drawings, product data, glazing schedule, PE-stamped anchor calculations, Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA cover sheets, and mockup specs where required. See the table above for the full list by project type.
How long does the review cycle take?
First review: 10–21 calendar days. With PE engineering review: add 5–10 days. A resubmit cycle adds 7–14 days. Total from ACG submittal to approved drawings: 4–8 weeks in most markets.
Does ACG provide PE-stamped engineering?
Yes. Anchor calculations are signed and sealed by a licensed Florida PE on every curtainwall scope. Frame engineering reports are provided for non-standard spans or conditions outside the manufacturer's published span charts.
What is the difference between FBC and HVHZ submittal requirements?
FBC (non-HVHZ) projects require Florida Product Approval documentation. HVHZ projects require Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance packets for every assembly, which are more extensive and may require special inspection during installation.
What happens if submittals are rejected?
ACG responds to every comment with a response matrix, revises drawings with revision clouds, and resubmits. Material is not released to fabrication until we have a final approval.
When is a mockup required?
Mockups are required when the specification calls for one, when AAMA 502 field water testing is required, or when the AHJ requires proof of performance. HVHZ projects may require TAS 202 field testing as a permit condition. ACG builds and tests mockups as part of scope on applicable projects.
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