The Grit Blueprint Podcast
The $100 Million Dollar View: How Faour Glass Reinvented Hurricane-Proof Glass
October 9, 2025 Length: 39 min Watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab)
On The Grit Blueprint Podcast, three generations of glaziers from Faour Glass, including Adam Valdez, tell Stefanie Couch how the SLIMPACT system reinvented hurricane-proof glass with maximum views and minimal metal framing. They cover design assist, 3D modeling, family legacy and a philosophy that treats failure as a chance to learn.
About This Episode.
Three generations of glaziers share how they've created innovative products through design assistance, partnerships, and a philosophy that views failure as just another opportunity to learn.
Join us at GlassBuild 2025, November 4-6 in Orlando, Florida, where the glass industry will gather to showcase products, provide training, and offer networking opportunities.
- • SLIMPACT was invented in 2012 to solve the problem of large glass panels with less visible metal for hurricane-prone areas
- • The system requires only top and bottom channels with just 3/8-inch silicone joints between panels
- • Third-generation glazier Adam Valdez brings marketing skills to complement technical expertise
- • 3D modeling and printing are used to test designs before production
- • Family legacy is central to the company, with multiple generations working together
- • Relationship-building with suppliers and customers drives innovation
- • The team focuses on being solution providers rather than just product suppliers
- • Hurricane-resistant pivot doors complement the SLIMPACT wall systems
- • The goal is to make the glass "invisible" so it showcases the view rather than the product
Key Takeaways.
- SLIMPACT was invented in 2012 to create large glass panels with less visible metal for hurricane-prone areas.
- The system needs only top and bottom channels, with 3/8-inch silicone joints between panels.
- Design assist helps architects keep their design intent while meeting code requirements.
- The team uses 3D modeling and printing to test designs before production.
- The goal is to make the glass invisible so it showcases the view, not the product.
Questions and Answers.
What is SLIMPACT hurricane-proof glass?
SLIMPACT is a Faour Glass system invented in 2012 that provides maximum views with minimal metal framing while meeting Florida's stringent building codes. It uses only top and bottom channels with 3/8-inch silicone joints between panels.
How does Faour Glass work with architects?
Faour Glass emphasizes design assist, helping architects maintain their design intent while meeting code requirements. The team focuses on being a solution provider rather than just a product supplier.
Who is Adam Valdez?
Adam Valdez is a third-generation glazier at Faour Glass who brings marketing skills to complement technical expertise.
Keep Watching.
-
Tech, Service, And The Co-op Edge: Marianne Thompson
October 14, 2025, 23 min -
Loyal Fans, Lasting Success: Zamzow’s Inc
October 11, 2025, 28 min -
Niche, Trust, and the Independent Advantage: Russ Kathrein
October 10, 2025, 25 min -
How To Build A Resilient Independent Business In Changing Markets
October 3, 2025, 40 min -
Automate or Evaporate: You Can’t Ignore AI Anymore
October 1, 2025, 30 min -
Embracing AI in Small Business: Southern Tool Supply
September 26, 2025, 22 min
Book a Call
Pick a time that works for you. We will talk through your event, your audience and your goals, and whether Stefanie is the right fit.