Glass vs. Plastic: Are We Settling for Disposable Daylighting? – Ep 114 with David Leinbach & Terry MacGillivary
This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski dives into a real-world case study with David Leinbach of Kaiser Martin Group and Terry MacGillivary from Advanced Glazings. The spotlight? A high-profile U.S. government project where cutting-edge daylighting met energy efficiency demands head-on. David and Terry unpack how SoleraWall—a revolutionary glass-based translucent wall system—replaced traditional materials to solve tough design challenges, including heat loss, glare, and longevity. Together, they reveal how thoughtful engineering and collaboration turned a spec rejection into a design triumph, delivering R5 insulation performance (U-Value 0.2) and lasting visual impact. From the installation process to the "quiet wow" of natural light done right, this episode shines a light on how buildings can be both beautiful and brilliantly functional. If you care about smart daylighting, occupant comfort, and better buildings—don’t miss this one.
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More About David K. Leinbach and Terry MacGillivary
David K. Leinbach is President and founder of Kaiser Construction. He then acquired Martin Construction Company of Denver, Pa., a commercial contractor in 2010. In 2017 the companies merged into Kaiser-Martin Group thereby creating a General Contracting company suited for future growth. David also has majority ownership of Kaiser Investment, which is a Property Management firm. With over 39 years of experience in the construction industry, David has hands-on expertise in all areas of operating a construction firm. A BS in Business Management and Course work for a Master of Management has helped to enhance the skills needs to meet today’s marketplace. David has the practical experience in the governmental sector; having served 18 years as an Elected Township Supervisor and as the Chairman for ABC SEPA, BIE and the TCACC Legislative Committees. His community service extends from working with his church, holding a national soccer coaching and referee license, serving on boards for ABC Insurance Trust, PAID, and Tri-County Chamber of Commerce, Steel River Performing Arts Center and other local organizations. Additionally, he serves as Vice-President of MBCEA and served on Nucor Building Group’s “Business Advisory Team”.
Terry MacGillivary joined Advanced Glazings Ltd (AGL) in 2017 to oversee and manage the development, marketing and deployment of the SoleraWall System - the world's only translucent wall assembly system made of long-lasting glass. Mr. MacGillivary's wide array of work and life experiences - applied sciences, technical sales, construction management, research and development - have been key in forging a path for the SoleraWall System in new building markets - like the metal building industry. Mr. MacGillivary is also directly involved in new business development with AGL. This includes program-based corporate projects, special projects as well as international/overseas projects and programs.
CONTACT:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-leinbach-b3050049/
https://kaisermartingroup.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-macgillivary-2aa68045/?originalSubdomain=ca
Where To Find Us:
https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/
www.advancedglazings.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast
www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625
https://twitter.com/bbfhpod
https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight
https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/
https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd
https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd