The Breakers Hotel

The Breakers Palm Beach, a 140-acre historic resort in Palm Beach, Florida, underwent a comprehensive four-phase window replacement project aimed at upgrading to modern, impact-resistant standards. The project involved a variety of window systems, including single hung and fixed windows. The General Contractor Weitz, engaged GCI Consultants to provide technical oversight and support in navigating the complexities of renovating a heritage property while meeting current performance expectations.

Quality Control and Testing Procedures

Under the direction of the general contractor, a series of quality control measures were implemented to ensure compliance with industry standards during this Palm Beach hotel window replacement project:

• Pre-installation conferences were held with all relevant project stakeholders to align on expectations and procedures.
• Field water infiltration tests were conducted following ASTM E1105 protocols to evaluate system performance.
• Testing was organized into multiple two-day series, each examining at least three window specimens for water resistance and proper installation.
• Detailed reports were issued after each test series, including analysis and recommendations for corrective action where necessary.

This approach helped ensure the replacement windows delivered enhanced protection against water intrusion and met the performance standards required for hurricane-prone regions.

Additional Project Components

As work progressed, the scope expanded to include additional elements of the building envelope:

• Railing installations were inspected for compliance and performance.
• Failed window specimens underwent re-testing after adjustments were made, with follow-up evaluations to confirm resolution.
• Separate testing was conducted for 12 casement windows located at the hotel’s Seafood Bar, requiring a tailored approach.

Innovative Solutions for Operational Constraints

The Seafood Bar testing posed a logistical challenge, as the venue remained open throughout the renovation. To accommodate hotel operations, our team developed a phased testing plan that minimized disruption while maintaining the quality assurance process.

Outcome and Impact

The completed window replacement significantly improved the resort’s ability to withstand extreme weather events. Careful oversight throughout every phase — from design document review to final field testing — supported high performance standards of the replacement window systems, while respecting the architectural integrity of the historic property.

For expert building envelope consulting for Palm beach hotel window replacement and renovation projects, contact GCI Consultants.