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Swiss added value for building shells

2 swisspor Group \"We're ready to go the extra mile\" Ladies and gentlemen The future is with us now, and we from swisspor, swisswindows, Swisspearl® by Eternit and Eternit Austria are proud to be part of it. It is our own history that keeps us moving forward. We are a successful company that is galvanised by our body of satisfied, loyal customers and our first-rate team of employees. Our driving forces are innovation, dependability, quality, and our readiness to focus single-mindedly on the customer. We live and foster this entrepreneurial spirit as a matter of pure conviction. The swisspor Group credo still holds true: \"Be modest at all times and work a little bit harder than the rest\" As you read on you will find out a lot about us, our values and our products. Read about the added value that swisspor, as a strong group of companies, can bring you. Allow us to win you over as your partner for the building shell. Yours sincerely Bernhard Alpstaeg

swisspor Group 3 Contents 2 swisspor Group 6 The swisspor values 10 Milestones 12 Corporate structure 14 You and the swisspor Group 16 A valuable thing perfectly covered 18 swisspor 20 Pioneering achievements in energy saving 22 Comprehensive product portfolio from one source 23 sInwsiuslsaptioorninSpaicdteior n 24 26 swisswindows 28 Swiss windows for best prospects 30 The roots 31 swisswindows in action 32 Testing laboratories 34 Swisspearl® 36 Universal construction material made from local resources 38 Tradition meets innovation 39 Swisspearl® in action 40 Swisspearl® Summerschool 42 Eternit 44 Where it all began 46 Ideas for the future 47 Eternit in action University of Technology 48 Eternit and Vienna 50 swisspor Group 50 We look forward to a successful partnership 51 Contacts

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swisspor Group 5 We run our road haulage operations in a responsible way. With our modern fleet of vehicles we are safeguarding the environment and we are always close at hand.

6 swisspor Group | The swisspor values The swisspor values keep us moving forward, day in, day out Many ingredients go into the swisspor Group's recipe for success. Of these, the most important are our values. For more than four decades our values have been our constant starting point. Our clear sense of identity makes us a trustworthy partner and provides us with an unmistake­ able face. We take responsibility towards society and our environment in a sustainable way by using our resources carefully and adding value. Our ambition is to strive con- stantly for progress and continuous development. All this results in a first-class, indispensable product. Our everyday actions are guided by these principles. Our values charac­ terise our strategy, both in Switzerland and in Europe. Our customers also reap the benefit of this: they can count on products and services that are above average. Both now and in the future.

swisspor Group | The swisspor values 7 Identity Our roots are in Switzerland. Our identity is shaped by Swiss values. They make us what we are. Our thinking and our actions are led by modesty, conscientiousness and attention to detail. We are spurred on time and time again by the awareness that extraordinary achievements only become possible through an above-average degree of commitment. We do not view our “Swissness” as a product quality. We view our “Swissness” as our mindset. We consistently adhere to this mindset, and it has helped us over the last decades to turn into a reliable force. Furthermore, our home provides us with outstanding framework conditions for working successfully and progressively. We make the most of these conditions as a fertile breeding ground for functionally impressive innovations.

8 swisspor Group | The swisspor values Responsibility To us, it stands to reason that resources need to be used spar- ingly. We consistently design our products and solutions such that they also provide long-term benefits in terms of environmen- tal protection. In this regard we look well beyond our production processes. We take our responsibility as a supplier seriously: the fleet of vehicles we use for transporting our products meets the highest energy efficiency standards. For the benefit of the environment we keep transportation distances to the minimum. And we never cease developing ourselves, our products and our processes so that we can continue protecting the environment in years to come.

swisspor Group | The swisspor values 9 Ambition We always want to offer our customers the perfect solution. With great engineering expertise and a highly developed sense of conscientiousness we provide added value of Swiss quality. Ambition means the will to improve constantly and to never let up searching for improvements in our future endeavours. And that is exactly what we have been doing zealously for many long years. We are quite certain that only a willingness to initiate changes can open up genuine prospects for the future. We are pursuing a vision. Namely, the challenge of coming up with an all-round product to produce a building shell that works in a sustainable way. Watchfulness and a keen eye for future deve­l­ opm­ ents enable us to recognise trends at an early stage and to orient our corporate thinking and actions accordingly. That is how we create room for innovations. That is how we take ad- vantage of sustainable growth potential. And that is how we create a successful future.

10 swisspor Group | Milestones Milestones 2008 2009 Increased output: swisspor Polska sp. z o.o. New vistas open up: the three traditional opens its fourth plant in Pelplin (PL). In Romania manufacturers Dörig Fenster Service AG, Herzog the company expands its capacity with the Fenster AG and Kufag AG combine forces under acquisition of Isopor S.R.L in Cluj (RO). the new brand swisswindows. More technical insulation products with the Eternit expands in Europe: FibreCem Holding acquisition of Airofom AG (now named Alporit AG, AG takes over the Eternit-Werke Ludwig Hatschek Rothrist branch) in Rothrist (CH). AG (EWLH) in Vöcklabruck (AT) and the trading company Dach und Wand Handels GmbH. It also 2006 acquires the cement composite plant BACHL Baustoffe Porschendorf GmbH (today known as Technical insulation: Aeroflex AG FibreCem Deutschland GmbH) in Porschendorf in Rothrist (CH), specialised in this area, near Dresden (DE). joins the swisspor Group. Phoenix rises from the ashes: the new Expansion into Austria: takeover of the swisspor plant Baukork AG in Steinhausen (CH), Austrian insulation manufacturer Prima with rebuilt after a fire, is opened with great fanfare. its three production plants in Rosenau (AT), Stadl-Paura (AT) and Völs (AT). 2004 2003 Opening third plant in Poland: Eternit gets on Board! swisspor Polska sp. z o.o. in Mie˛dzyrzecz (PL) Eternit AG was founded in 1903. 100 years after the foundation Bernhard Alpstaeg aquired the company with its two production plants in Niederurnen (CH) and Payerne (CH) along with Promat AG in Rickenbach (CH). More windows: the window range expands again with the takeover of Herzog Fenster AG in Müllheim (CH). 1971 1986 1987 Off we go! Bernhard and Georges Alpstaeg In form: swisspor takes over the Wannerit AG Western expansion: swisspor expands to found swisspor AG in Boswil (CH) and take over company in Bilten (CH) which specialises in French part of Switzerland and gains access to Kork AG as well as Baukork AG. They produce insulating materials, customer-specific packaging the western Swiss market as well as part of the insulation from EPS and PUR/PIR. and moulded parts from EPS. French market by taking over Luxit Isolations SA (now named swisspor Romandie SA) in Châtel-St-Denis (CH).

swisspor Group | Milestones 11 2010 2012 Outlook News from French-speaking Switzerland: Swiss XPS: swisspor becomes the first and The swisspor Group will continue in the future swisspor Romandie SA starts operating in the only XPS manufacturer of Switzerland by opening to do everything in its power to grow in a healthy, newly constructed production and storage the new XPS plant in Boswil-Buenzen (CH). sensible way. Because that is the only way to facilities in Châtel-St-Denis (CH). continue combining expertise and creating synergies. The Group will continue to develop methodically, strategically and rationally with the aim of combining all new products and services associated with the building shell from one single source. 2002 2001 1999 Another milestone in Poland: Consolidation: sales and marketing in Heading to the east: the company starts a second plant is opened in Poland: swisspor German-speaking Switzerland and in Ticino are operating in Romania, founding S. C. swisspor Polska sp. z o.o. in Janów Podlaski (PL). integrated into the swisspor AG sales company SA in Ploiesti (RO). in Steinhausen (CH). 1996 Further east: swisspor enters the eastern 1998 European growth market and opens its first New horizons: the company diversifies its insulation manufacturing facility of swisspor activities and enters the window market with the Growth in the north: the production and Polska sp. z o.o. in Chrzanów (PL). acquisition of Kufag AG in Oftringen (CH). sales company swisspor Deutschland GmbH in Dankerode (DE) is taken over. Range expansion: the window product range is expanded with the takeover of Dörig Fenster Service AG in Mörschwil (CH). Vaparoid AG in Turtmann (CH), where bitumen sealing membranes are manufactured, is also joining the swisspor group along with Isosystem Dulliken AG in Dulliken (CH).

12 swisspor Group | Corporate structure Corporate structure – the swisspor Group delivers convincing solutions We support you – our customers and partners swisspor Management AG – with our expertise and dedication. Our This is where competencies are products enable you to build aesthetically combined and strategies developed. pleasing structures that are also highly func- tional and energy efficient. We provide you with solutions that will help your building project to succeed. swisspor offers an im- pressive range of products both in depth and breadth: for insulation materials, façades and windows, the experts from swisspor, swisswindows, Swisspearl® and Eternit stand out with their specific know-how and years of experience. As a strong group of com­ panies we are constantly improving our pro- cesses, maintaining a sophisticated qual­ity management system and ensuring the de- velopment of our workforce.

swisspor Group | Corporate structure 13 Total: 1050 employees swisspor AG, Steinhausen (CH) swisspor Deutschland GmbH, Dankerode (DE) INSULATING AND SEALING Baukork AG, Steinhausen (CH) swisspor Österreich GmbH & Co. KG, All the key technologies for the Wannerit AG, Bilten (CH)  Gleiss/Sonntagberg (AT) entire building shell from one Alporit AG, Boswil (CH) Primanit GmbH & Co. KG, Rosenau (AT) single source – swisspor delivers Isosystem Dulliken AG, Dulliken (CH)  AWA GmbH, Stadl-Paura (AT) high-quality products in Alporit AG (branch office), Rothrist (CH) Isopor S.R.L., Cluj-Napoca (RO)  Switzerland and Europe. Aeroflex AG, Rothrist (CH)  swisspor SA, Ploiesti (RO) swisspor Romandie SA, Châtel-St-Denis (CH) swisspor Polska sp. z o.o., Chrzanów (PL) Vaparoid AG, Turtmann (CH)  swisspor Polska sp. z o.o., Pelplin (PL) swisspor Polska sp. z o.o., Janów Podlaski (PL) swisspor Polska sp. z o.o., Mie˛dzyrzecz (PL) Total: 350 employees swisswindows AG, Mörschwil (CH)  WINDOW AND DOOR SYSTEMS swisswindows AG, Dulliken (CH) swisswindows AG, Steinach (CH) Top Swiss quality swisswindows AG, Müllheim (CH) swisswindows AG, Sant‘Antonino (CH) from development and swisswindows AG, Volketswil (CH) production to installation. Total: 750 employees Eternit (Schweiz) AG, Niederurnen (CH) FibreCem Deutschland GmbH, Porschendorf (DE) FAÇADE, ROOF AND EXTENSION Eternit (Suisse) SA, Payerne (CH) Swisspearl Nordic AB, Lomma (SE) Innovative and sustainable products Promat AG, Rickenbach Sulz (CH) ESAL d.o.o., Deskle (SI) made from natural raw materials – they are all about aesthetics, quality and responsibility. Total: 550 employees Eternit-Werke Ludwig Hatschek AG, Ortig Dach und Wand GmbH, FAÇADE, ROOF AND EXTENSION Vöcklabruck (AT) Ried im Innkreis (AT)  The perfect partner for contemporary, Dach und Wand Handels GmbH, AURiA Deutschland GmbH, innovative and design-focused Vöcklabruck (AT)  Munich (DE)  architecture. Hatschek Betondachstein GmbH, Vöcklabruck (AT)

14 swisspor Group | You and the swisspor Group You and the swisspor Group – a strong team With the fierce competition that exists Quality today, no one can any longer afford to As a group of companies with Swiss roots we feel obliged offer only average service or tolerate avoid- to strive for highest quality. After a painstaking development able idle time. Our customers appreciate process, our products then undergo various stringent test our professionalism, delivery reliability, procedures. That is how we can be confident that the pro­ quality and accessibility. This is why ducts we offer are always of best quality. We also make every people authorised to make decisions can effort to constantly continue developing and improving our be contacted directly at all times at the existing solutions for building shells. We are quick to identi- swissp­ or Group. We see this as a prere­ fy new possibilities and exploit them in order to keep on quisite for an efficient working relationship. coming up with new premium products for the market. Thanks to our close working partnership with professionals We do not believe in leaving our customers' satisfaction and partners we don't settle for compromise. The term to chance. We take the experience and expectations “quality”, after all, means a lot more to us than a mere word. of our partners extremely seriously. And that's not all: To us it is no less than a commitment. This is the only way you act as our barometer and also spur us on. for us to reach a position of creating Swiss added value for building shells. Professionalism Day in, day out, we aspire to communicate with our partners Availability on equal terms. We succeed in this thanks to our know-how, At critical moments, each individual customer becomes our constant ongoing development and willingness to enter into most important one. Quite rightly, our customers insist that dialogue. This is the only way for us to identify and analyse we offer maximum flexibility and seamless availability. Our market requirements and meet our customers' needs ac- technical specialists are available for customers to speak to cordingly. The customer and their project are always the first at any time. This ensures that all issues are dealt with im- priority. Successful outcome to a construction project is most mediately and allows us to maintain a close relationship with important to us. In this field we know precisely where our our partners. Advisers are assigned permanently, which strengths are. And we put our strengths together, turning means that they have a sound understanding of the cus- them into core skills. This makes us a proven quality partner tomer, the project and the portfolios entrusted to them; as for the entire building shell. a result they are able to act quickly and authoritatively. This close relationship with our customers enables us to meet Delivery reliability their needs at all times and provide them with the support Time is a scarce and therefore valuable resource in the of a dependable partner. The support of a strong group construction industry. Careful coordination of separate pro- of companies. cesses therefore brings significant advantages and greatly enhances the efficiency of construction projects. Idle time and unnecessary stock levels are to be avoided. The ability to always supply our customers with the required material in the right place and at the right time makes the swisspor Group a supplier that can be relied on at all times. The four subsidiaries swisspor, swisswindows, Eternit (Schweiz) AG and Eternit-Werke Ludwig Hatschek AG (Vöckla­bruck, Austria) deliver on a “just-in-time” basis, ensure that their scheduling is carried out transparently, and communicate directly with all involved parties. Thanks to our concentrated network of production sites we can guarantee maximum flexibility and delivery reliability. Our customers can therefore always access the right product – whenever and wherever they may need it.

swisspor Group | You and the swisspor Group 15 BIG MAMMA unloading system on site: Prime Tower, Zurich (CH)

16 swisspor Group | A valuable thing perfectly covered A valuable thing perfectly covered – the swisspor Group as a partner for a visionary project The \"Europaplatz – meet and move\" Cen- tre in Ausserholligen in the western sec- tor of Bern is in many respects a project for the future. The “House of Religions” at the heart of this project offers space for spirituality and dialogue to a variety of denominations. An attractive focus of development is set to grow rapidly over the next few years outside the gates to the City of Bern. The swisspor Group has been working in close collaboration with developers, contractors and implementation partners, and is responsible for sealing and cladding the complex of buildings with sustainable and durable systems. The work carried out on this project combines professionalism, deliv­ ery reliability, quality and availability without compromise, and stands for expertise in every aspect of the building shell. The goal always remains the same – namely to assist our custo­ mers on their way towards a successful implementation and to make a contribution to the success of a unique project. \"Europaplatz – meet and move\" Centre A vision is realised in Ausserhollingen. The planners and developers were searching for a way to create a meeting place for people, cultures and interests in an up-and-coming urban area. The complex with construction costs of around 75 million Swiss francs combines living, shopping and work- ing all under the same roof. Everyday requirements are thus covered within a very limited space. A customer-focused and well-balanced range of shopping and eating opportu- nities, versatile office areas and 88 modern, spacious flats make this new centre a meeting place for people and cultures, and a place of dynamic movement. The project has reached internation­ al acclaim primarily because of the unusual spaces it provides for meeting and dialogue.

swisspor Group | A valuable thing perfectly covered 17 An exemplary space for dialogue A conceptual value – realised as a building The concept of the \"House of Religions\", which forms the The idea of a physical meeting place required a great deal centrepiece of the Europaplatz Centre, has created a great of openness in the design of indoor and outdoor areas. stir well beyond the borders of the Canton of Bern and indeed Natural light and reflected colours play an important part. well beyond Swiss borders too. Over a number of years a The multifunctional usage of the complex brought various meeting place for all manner of different cultures and religions constructional challenges during the planning and construc- has developed. A place for dialogue. This focus has the tion phase, which extended over several years. All the future effect of making the complex into a project that attracts users of the centre had definite ideas on the spaces to be considerable public interest. Eight world religions come created. Public requirements also changed frequently and together under a single roof, while five religions are repre- necessitated modifications, some minor and some more sented in the \"House of Religions\" with their own cultural major. This required enormous flexibility on the part of plan- zones. To enable this project to be fully implemented, certain ners, implementers and suppliers. The parties involved were cultural and construction challenges had to be overcome. able to work together and lead the entire project to a success­ Thanks to a great deal of passion, mutual tolerance and ful outcome without making any compromise on quality. constant dialogue, the responsibles for the project were able to find a common way. Façades, windows and insulation materials – vital components of the building shell from one single source The fact that the swisspor Group was responsible for a key part of the shell of such a ground-breaking structure as the \"Europaplatz - meet and move\" Centre fills the swisspor group with a huge sense of pride. The timelessly aesthetic quality of the composite cement material defines the charac­ ter in the outward appearance of this unique project. The understated elegance of the Swisspearl® façade captivates the eye with its enduring quality, providing long-lasting pro- tection and thereby ensuring long-term cost effectiveness. Generously proportioned narrow-profile windows from swisswindows and proven insulation materials from swisspor around the flat roofs as well as the floors in the atriums, the terraces and the Kulturplatz (culture square) complete this high-quality envelope for the structure. Whether the contract was awar­ded directly to one of our companies by the gene­ral contractors or whether it was subcontracted, all the building shell components supplied by the swisspor Group emerged from the individual evaluation processes as the ideal solution. The market thereby confirms the high standards that the swisspor Group adheres to products and services with regard to quality and cost effectiveness. The swisspor Group, with its subsidiaries swisspor, swisswindows and Eternit (Schweiz) AG is once again making a statement with this project that, as a building shell specialist, it can offer a wide range of products and services, creating Swiss added value.

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swisspor 19 Insulating and sealing buildings: at first glance it may appear to be a simple thing, but in fact it is extremely chal- lenging for employees, technologies and materials. swisspor early realised that the only way to succeed in this field was to build up knowledge of custom- er requirements based on years of ex- perience and also to develop a com- prehensive product portfolio. Success in this field means reducing the energy consumption of buildings significantly by efficient allocation of capital money.

20 swisspor | Pioneering achievements in energy saving swisspor’s pioneering achievements in energy saving It's a great feeling: living in a house that is getting the maximum benefit from the energy that is brought in, and the knowledge that this is a long- term situation. Since 1971, swisspor has been supplying appropriate materials and its unique expertise with the aim of achieving this goal. As a supplier of a comprehensive product range for insulation, sealing and building services, swisspor is ready with a solution to meet any require- ment that involves reducing energy consumption and costs, and enabling people to enjoy more comfort. A strong presence in five countries Swiss quality for Europe swisspor products and solutions are developed primarily in Switzerland Switzerland where the company operates seven production sites, 7 production plants guaranteeing outstanding quality. The company also operates plants in Germany, Austria, Poland and Romania, and meets the Germany same high quality standards in all of them. 1 production plant Eco-friendly concepts implemented consistently Austria swisspor products guarantee the eco-friendly use of our natural 2 production plants resources not only in their application but also during their manu­ facturing. For this reason, the company has been using green Poland electricity from renewable sources exclusively for its Swiss pro- 4 production plants duction plants since the beginning of 2013. The factories are operated entirely with electricity that does not come from nu­clear Romania power plants. swisspor has also added eco-friendly touches to 2 production plants other areas. Its well-established recycling policy has been rated as exemplary by experts in the field. The group runs a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient fleet of vehicles, and also keeps its transportation distances in Switzerland and Europe to a minimum. Only vehicles that already meet the strict Euro-6 environmental regulations are purchased when expand- ing the fleet. Energy efficiency, environmental and climate pro- tection, and the careful use of natural resources are an obligation today more than ever before. swisspor takes responsibility for delivering appropriate solutions to meet future challenges.

swisspor | Pioneering achievements in energy saving 21 Site: residential and commercial building, Einsiedeln (CH) Solutions. Efficient and complete Every building and every building component requires an indi- vidual solution for insulating, sealing and protecting. swisspor is constantly improving its insulating and sealing systems to meet the highest demands. The product range is expanded regularly, and new products for new applications open up promising new perspectives. Driven by amazing innovative power, the special- ists at swisspor, in cooperation with expert partners, succeed in the ongoing improvement of the lambda values (thermal con- ductivity) of insulating materials. Thanks to this tireless dedication to perfect­ion, swisspor offers complete solutions for the optimum fitting of the entire building shell: roof, ceilings and floors, ext­erior walls and building services systems.

22 swisspor | Comprehensive product portfolio from one source A comprehensive product portfolio from one source swisspor is a full-range provider in the areas of insulation, sealing and building technology. It also offers a comprehensive range of services, giving customers and partners the opportunity to maximise added value. In addition to the individual main pro­ducts, the company offers its customers a complete array of logically complementary accessory items. The latter enable the efficient and cost-effective installation and handling of insulating and sealing materials. The swisspor products in the area of insulation are white and grey EPS (rigid expanded polystyrene foam), PUR (rigid poly­ urethane foam), XPS (rigid extruded polystyrene foam), mineral and glass wool, and PE (polyethylene foam). Bitumen membranes and bitumen coats are the main pro­ducts needed for professional sealing. In the area of building services, the swisspor product portfolio includes PIR-half-shells (made of polyisocyanurates) and EPDM hoses (ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer- or \"synthetic\" rubber). Comprehensive services such as consulting and planning on the building site, technical support and preparing tenders complete our offer to you.

swisspor | swisspor in action 23 Sustainable building – swisspor in action 1 The Minergie-P home becomes 2 Green home comfort in a multi- 3 10,000 m2 of insulating material reality, Zeglingen (CH) family dwelling, Widnau (CH) de­livered just in time, Wil (CH) This is what happens when an architect The Bommert residential complex in the The small city of Wil in eastern Switzer- builds his own house: Ernst Gosteli lives eastern Swiss town of Widnau impres­ses land has built a highly modern sports in an elegantly attractive dwelling with a with its well-planned ecological design park. A new football stadium, an outdoor lively slate façade. He has fulfilled his and sustainable building approach. and indoor pool, an iceskating arena and dream of building a Minergie-P single- Flower-covered lawns, patches of herbs, other facilities have been created at the family dwelling. His home produces more wooden façades, natural colours and Sportpark Bergholz. The new attraction energy than it uses. The insulating ma- other elements give inhabitants a cosy was completed in just 17 months – which terial behind the slate panels plays a key feeling of green home comfort. The sus­ placed extremely high demands on build- role in this: the 240-mm, durable panels t­ain­ability here is measurable: thanks to ing logistics. swisspor delivered its Swiss made from \"swissporLAMBDA Vento the energy efficiency and recycling ca- made swissporXPS insulation just in time, Premium\" do a tremendous job of en- pacities of the construction materials, eliminating the need for storage space suring that not the slightest bit of warmth the building complex meets the standard on the building site. Thanks to the intel- escapes from the walls of this architec- of the Minergie-P Eco Label. The swiss­ ligent unloading system “BIG MAMMA” tural masterpiece. por sealing and insulating materials on the material was placed where it belonged the flat roofs, terraces, loggias and oth- very quickly by crane. er parts of the building contribute signi­ ficantly to achieving this standard. 123

24 swisspor | Insulation Spider How can the sustainability of insulation ma- terials be portrayed in such a way that con­ tract­ors, planners and structural engineers are given a transparent decision-making basis? Insulation Spider – sustainability at a glance With its Insulation Spiders, swisspor delivers an intelligent ans­ environmental impact during manufacturing, climate friendliness, wer to the problem. Together with an independent external economic savings, processing safety, application scope (fire expert, the company developed a tool back in 2009 that con- protection), freedom from hazardous materials, durability, veys methodically correct information that is practice-relevant recyclability and disposal. and based on objective criteria. The Insulation Spider is contin­ ually updated according to the latest results from research and The evaluation and quantifying methods of the individual cri- has been revised completely in 2014. teria are recognised scientifically and are traceable at all times. Only insulation within the same application area can be com- The evaluation of the insulation’s individual sustainability crite- pared in a methodically correct manner. The Spider profile ria takes place on the Spider axes, and ranges from 0 (lowest created from the evaluation enables an objective and simple value) to 6 (highest value). The insulation materials are judged comparison of different insulation materials. Finding the most based on a total of nine criteria: resource conservation, low sustainable solution is made significantly easier. Resource conservation Recyclability 6 Low environmental impact and disposal 5 during manufacturing Freedom from hazardous materials 4 3 2 1 Climate friendliness Processing safety Economic savings Insulation Spider: an example EPS 19 Graphite, glued 18 cm EPS 15 Standard, glued 23 cm EPS 16 Graphite, glued 19 cm

swisspor 25 Site: \"HOCHZWEI\" highrise building, Allmend Lucerne (CH)

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swisswindows 27 The window and door systems from swisswindows actively increase quality of living. Developed and manufactured with care in Switzerland, they enrich buildings with aesthetically pleasing forms and high energy efficiency. Thanks to numerous innovations, the company has created excellent prospects for the future.

28 swisswindows | Swiss windows for best prospects swisswindows basis are decades of Swiss window-building tradition while at the same time representing new develop­ ments and innovations in the window industry. With its own research and de- velopment department, swisswindows continually sets new standards in the areas of design and functionality. Testing facilities adhering to international guide- lines also vouch for highest quality. swisswindows – Swiss windows for the best prospects Progress is the name of the game A whole series of innovations reflects the ambition of the company to offer its customers the best solution at all times. swisswindows presented a technological quantum leap even before the new millennium began: a new energy-saving window that achieves an unbeatable heat-insulating factor. Soon afterwards, another innovation appeared on the Swiss market with the first vinyl window with real-wood composites. As the new millennium started, the findings from the struc- tural engineering department in the areas of energy, acous- tics and security were incorporated into prod­ uct development. This is how swisswindows consistently follows its objective of addressing its customers' growing demands in the resi- dential sector and fulfilling their demands with impressive solutions. The main focus is on reducing energy consump- tion, improving soundproofing and air quality, minimising the growth of mould and optimising building maintenance. In addition to this, the ever stricter standardisations and regu- lations must be adhered to in a proactive manner. With its combination of decades of exper­ience, cutting-edge tech- nology and scientific approaches, swisswindows delivers ground-breaking solutions for commercial success in the future. swisswindows provides regular training for its em- ployees in order to implement up-to-date knowledge as efficiently as possible.

swisswindows | Swiss windows for best prospects 29 Dedicated to a better quality of living Ecology and security in harmony Windows have a significant influence on the atmosphere of Windows from swisswindows ensure best prospects – par- residential and work spaces. They have also transformed ticularly in saving energy. All window systems impress with themselves into designer façade elements. Window and their above-average insulating properties, and they are all door systems from swisswindows increase the quality of Minergie-certified. The use of recycled PVC in manufacturing living by contributing significantly to the building's sense of new window profiles also contributes to an outstanding security and comfort. With its extensive product range, ecological balance. swisswindows can make every wish come true. Its custom- ers include public institutions, architects, planners, general swisswindows products fulfil the latest standards in the area contractors and retailers as well as private individuals. The of security. They protect against break-ins and satisfy high systems from swisswindows which feature certified products security requirements. are manufactured exclusively in Switzerland. The vinyl win- dows combine sophisticated technology with peak energy efficiency. They impress with a timeless elegance, which is manifested in every detail. Attractive architectural accents can be added to renovations and new buildings with de- signer vinyl windows. For example, they offer a frameless view and increase one's sense of well-being by letting in abundant light. The wood and wood/aluminium windows from swisswindows bring nature right into the house and create a homely atmosphere. With large glass surfaces, individualised interior and exterior colour schemes and refined lighting, sliding doors from swisswindows are important architectural design elements. Additionally, they enable a better use of space and light.

30 swisswindows | The roots swisswindows – The roots swisswindows was created by merging three pioneering Swiss window manufacturing companies. In 1996, the swisspor Group took over Kufag AG. It was founded in 1972 in Oftringen by Bruno Rüegger – a pioneer in manufac- turing vinyl windows. Dörig Fenster Service AG became part of the swisspor Group in 1999. The company had been founded in 1981 by Roland Dörig from the Dörig window-building dynasty in Appenzell. In 2003 the swisspor Group integrated Herzog Fenster AG, whose first window factory opened in Müllheim back in 1965. The three companies were merged in 2009 under the new brand swisswindows, which immediately became a strong brand in the Swiss window market.

swisswindows | swisswindows in action 31 A clear view – swisswindows in action 12 1 Gucci, new logistics building, 2 Bahnhofpark, Sargans (CH) Sant'Antonino (CH) The prize-winning swisswindows “imago” The swisswindows “classico alu” win- window system (vinyl windows) was in- dows enable the free choice of colour stalled in this new building. It was impor- designs and optimal weathering protec- tant to the architect and contractor that tion. All of the contractor's criteria can the striking window design was not ob- be easily met: the profiles are so slim structed by a window frame and that the that there is no loss of light and the win- colour scheme could be chosen freely. dows are easy to clean. Furthermore, With the “imago” window, the window the Minergie and RC2 security standards sashes are not visible at all. Other crite- are adhered to – the “classico alu” win- ria that were met: Minergie standard as dows provide optimal insulation and well as a high degree of soundproofing, effectively protect you against unwanted as the building is located on a very busy visitors. street. 34 3 Leuenfeld residential block, 4 Langstuck residential complex, Oensingen (CH) Gockhausen (CH) The complex includes 347 residential These high-quality, owner-occupied flats units and offers its residents a living were fitted with swisswindows “madera- space that places a high priority on alu” windows and sliding doors. The ecological and social aspects. It features exterior cladding of the wood-aluminium a biological swimming pond, childcare frame was lacquered in anthracite. The facility, a large green and numerous assembly of the window fronts covering communal areas. In keeping with this, the a corner was an integrated architectural “classic” windows from swissw­ indows element. The windows adhere to the had to be Minergie-certified. Their slim Minergie standard. Installing glass panes profile allows a maximum of light to with a surface area of up to five square enter, and they are effortless to clean. metres presented a challenge, as did the floor-to-ceiling glazed sliding doors with an opening width of up to 2700 mm.

32 swisswindows | Testing laboratories Testing labs – For optimal solutions Testing labs for quality assurance Products from swisswindows should give their users the utmost satisfaction for many years. This means that a systematic in-house quality assurance process is essential. Acoustics testing lab: Sound is everywhere, but it is not welcome everywhere. Experts from swisswindows use the latest technology to develop soundproofing solutions that are tailored precisely to meet individual requirements. Bringing peace and quiet into their customers' lives. And last but not least, the work carried out in the acoustics test lab plays a key role in the standards-compliant certification of windows and doors. Testing lab for wind and driving rain: Regular tests are carried out on randomly chosen elements to ensure that the products also do what is required of them when installed. Testing lab for break-in attempts: Robust solutions to protect against break-ins are developed in cooperation with partners from the security branch (police, advisory boards, etc.). Important additional benefits: the experts from swisswindows stay up to date on the latest developments and can offer their customers a more informed choice. Corner testing: To ensure that the thermal welded corners of the vinyl windows remain strong under pressure, a corner testing device systematically monitors the prescribed static values. swisswindows provides its customers with comprehensive 70 expert support when it comes to finding solutions for windows 60 and sliding doors. Thanks to our structural engineering 50 services – primarily measurements and calculations – indi- 40 vidual requirements can be tested. The holistic solution 30 recommendations based on the tests include variations 20 and cost estimates, and provide customers with a solid 10 decision-making basis for building projects of all types (new construction, conversions and renovations). After the construction is completed, quality-control accept- ance inspections ensure long-term security and the success of the building project. General contractors, planners and home-owners can profit from the decades of experience and the specialised know-how of the experts from swiss- windows. 63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 The structural engineering services include: Soundproofing measurement: Room acoustics consulting (listening comfort, reverberation period) Testing report for the “classic” window system, twin windows, IV 3 Energy consulting for new buildings and renovations Soundproofing against external noise Vertical axis: Soundproofing index (in dB) Horizontal axis: Frequency f (in Hz) Yellow: Standard curve Red: Displaced standard curve Black: measured value of the differences between sent sound and received sound with the window between them Interpretation of results: When the black curve lies significantly above the red curve, it indicates that the window allows less sound to pass through at this frequency (approx. 1300 Hz in this example) than the average over the entire spectrum.

swisswindows 33 Bahnhofpark, Sargans (CH)

34 Swisspearl®

Swisspearl® 35 Over 95 percent of the raw materials used are sourced from the Swiss Alps: cement, powdered limestone, air and water. It is no coincidence therefore, that these high-quality façade, roof and design products have been given the name \"Swisspearl®\". They combine na­ tural raw materials with Swiss precision and innov­ ative capacity.

36 Swisspearl® | Universal construction material made from local resources Pre-hung façade systems, roof systems with built-in solar panels – Swisspearl® from Eternit (Schweiz) AG stands for far more than just another building material. Anyone with an aspiration to be involved in the future of the construction industry needs to keep all bases covered. This is where Swisspearl® comes in. Whilst the Group works towards the building shell of the future, Swisspearl® is also strength- ening its strategic alliance with its sister brands swisspor and swisswindows. Swisspearl® by Eternit – universal construction material made from local resources Quality pays for itself many times over Well-being can be constructed Swisspearl® façades boast outstanding structural features Each individual Swisspearl® panel contributes to a room's that make them stand out from the competition. They effi- pleasant and healthy climate as it effectively keeps humidity, ciently protect buildings from heat, humidity, noise and cold and draughts at bay. The valuable heat is contained weathering. The secret behind their success is no secret at within the house, while the energy consumption and related all, but rather a work of art in its perfected form: Swisspearl® costs are maintained at a reasonable level. Everyone has continually adds new applications to the basic principle of cause to celebrate, from the general contractor to the pre-hung, rear-ventilated façades. Thanks to intensive de- home's inhabitants. velopment work, the Swisspearl® roofing systems also boast first-class functional properties and well-engineered fasten- ing technology. As long-lasting as the maintenance-free façades and roofing systems from Swisspearl® are, they can be designed and built extremely quickly and efficiently. This results in a high level of cost-effectiveness – both during construction and over the entire lifespan of the property.

Swisspearl® | Universal construction material made from local resources 37 Ecological lasts the longest Nucleus of creativity Swisspearl® cement composite contains more than 95% Swisspearl® products inspire architects and designers around natural raw materials from the Swiss Alps. This avoids the the world to create extraordinary projects. Whereas these unnecessary transporting of raw materials. In addition, the used to include Le Corbusier, Lux Guyer, Haefeli Moser manufacturing process for Swisspearl® panels uses less Steiger, Paul Waltenspühl and Max Bill, renowned architects energy compared to many other building materials. Tog­ ether such as Herzog & de Meuron, Morphosis and Rafael Viñoly with their low maintenance and long life, they leave behind are making universal use of our building materials today. an especially small ecological footprint, which is something Whether it is for a football stadium in Chile, an airport in that will be even more important in the future in light of Uruguay, office blocks in Sydney and Shanghai, underground growing environmental awareness and the scarcity of stations in Malmö or the Technopark in Zurich, the diversity natural resources. of shapes, colours and formats enables countless design options for all types of buildings.

38 Swisspearl® | Tradition meets innovation Free energy from the roof Tradition meets innovation The sun shines on everyone – and provides free, safe and clean For many years Eternit (Schweiz) AG has been using all its energy. Generating power using photovoltaic systems is now ingenuity and specialist knowledge to develop innovative possible on a large scale and is the order of the day in light of and sustainable products for building shells, internal works scarce resources. Swisspearl® has picked up on this trend and and gardens from natural raw materials. In Swisspearl® this developed innovative solutions: tradition lives on: aesthetics, quality and a sense of respon- sibility towards mankind and our environment. At the same Frameless, flat photovoltaic modules that can be integrated seamlessly time, changing over to Swisspearl® enables the traditional into the roof landscape. company to break into a new era: From a construction Roof-mounted photovoltaic modules that can also be installed post- material to a system. From a domestic market to export. construction and adapted to meet individual requirements for size, colour From a single brand to a brand family. and performance. Thanks to its history and its worldwide success, Eternit has become synonymous with cement composite and has en- dured as such throughout an eventful century. Held in high esteem by generations of renowned architects from Le Corbusier to Herzog and de Meuron, then completely rede- veloped in the 1980s with natural products free from all hazardous materials, and now an important component in building and renovation projects that are sustainable in terms of energy – Eternit has come a long way. And now we are going one step further with Swisspearl®.

Swisspearl® | Swisspearl® in action 39 Aesthetic covering – Swisspearl® in action 3 12 1 Giant Interactive Group 2 Single-family detached house in 3 Student accommodation block at Headquarters, Shanghai (CN) the field, Villarepos (CH) EPFL Lausanne (CH) “Dragon” is what the owner has called The elementary aesthetic of the house The most important university of tech- his new headquarters. This is definitely is closely connected to its materials and nology and science in French-speaking a compliment in China, where the fabled method of construction. The corrugated Switzerland, the École Polytechnique creature is considered a lucky charm Swisspearl® panels were not only imple- Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), is contin- and symbol of power. The skin of the mented as a façade but also used by ually expanding its campus with exacting dragon is composed of a multitude of the Fribourg architects Aeby Aumann criteria in terms of innovation. In 2013 Swisspearl® panels: The façade uses Emery architectes sàrl as a concrete the architects Richter - Dahl Rocha & dark-grey panels, with anthracite panels formwork for the interior walls. In this Associés Architectes SA added a further to protect the roof from wind and way, the building shell as well as the piece to the splendid mosaic of archi- weather. And as the architects from interior space are given an unmistak­able tecture on this site: an accommodation Morphosis are fans of the aesthetic and unique curved structure and adept- block for around 500 students. This element of building materials, they also ly unify the interior and exterior. building was given an extremely indiv­ i-­ designed the interior spaces with dual touch. For the courtyard façad­ es, Swisspearl® products. which were constructed from large- format Swisspearl® panels, the artist Catherine Bolle developed a unique colour concept which she named \"Chro- moscope ou l’expérience-mètis\". With a layer of transparent colour made up of pigments from earth and iron oxide as well as ochres, she transforms the har- mony of the colours and the ways in which they reflect light, thereby creating an extraordinary visual poetry.

40 Swisspearl® | Swisspearl® Summerschool Swisspearl® Summerschool – Building for the future WELL-PLANNED From the foundation, Many years ago Eternit (Schweiz) AG first awarded the Eternit two floors, wet area and architecture prize at ETH and so made an important contri- external walls to the bution to the education and support of young architects. solar panel on the roof: Continuing this tradition, the \"Swisspearl® Summerschool\" The prototype was first has been set up in renewed close cooperation with the ETH. sketched, then drawn, The two-week seminar is to be held every two years and is simulated and built as a to be recognised as an official part of the architecture course model on a 1:1 scale. of studies. In the following year, the project results including documentation will be displayed and published. During each Summerschool session, the focus will be on a topical theme that represents intriguing issues in architecture and society. This is intended to encourage the students to reflect on their own position and responsibility as architects in relation to the social, political and economic challenges of our time. Students, eminent lecturers and guests from the international world of architecture will develop new ideas and plans for the future of building at the Summerschool. Eternit (Schweiz) AG has always been engaged in active exchang­ es with the brightest architects and engineers of tomorrow and is strongly involved in promoting future talent. 2013: New residential perspectives for townships In 2013, the Swisspearl® Summerschool focused on living and residing in South African townships with the project “Empower Shack”, in cooperation with Prof. Alfredo Brillem- bourg and Prof. Hubert Klumpner from the ETH Zurich “Architecture and Urban Design” professorship. Using an actual piece of land in Khayelitsha, the third-largest township in South Africa, a prototype of a house was developed during the Summerschool. The design brief was to offer residents a modest but solid home built to meet their specific individual needs. It had to fulfil logical and realistic criteria from both an economic and ecological perspective. Urban building aspects were also taken into consideration: the house had to be capable of offering high-quality spaces, ensuring safety and adapting to different settings. After nine days of intensive work and lively discussions, everything was ready: the prototype began to take shape in the Eternit (Schweiz) AG factory in Niederurnen. The students set aside their sketchbooks, laptops and flip charts and grabbed hammers, saws and drills instead. The excitement and pride in the group's accomplishment was evident every- where, and the learning effect and newly acquired skills were invaluable.

Swisspearl® 41 Fiera office building, Milan ( I ) – Swisspearl® LARGO, Reflex Gold 9272

42 Eternit

Eternit 43 When Eternit was invented in Vöckla­ bruck over a hundred years ago, no one had any idea that a century later this material for roof and façades would have conquered the world. In keeping with the vision of the company's founder, Ludwig Hatschek, this success story formed the basis for many more pio- neering products. His pioneering spirit continues to permeate the philosophy of the entire company as it focuses on crea­ ting further innovative materials and so­lutions, continuing to expand its range of services and developing new markets.

44 Eternit | Where it all began The history of Eternit (Austria) is a story of successful growth from its beginnings in the old \"Kochmühle\" in Vöcklabruck to the modern industrial enterprise that it has now become. Towards the end of the 19th century, Ludwig Hatschek, the founder of the Eternit plants, succeeded in developing a completely new material that was destined to change the roofs of the world. Eternit Austria – Where it all began \"The material of eternity\" Professionalism based on state-of-the-art technology \"The greatest inventions can be recognised by the lasting For more than a century Eternit (Austria) has stood for inno- benefits they bring to mankind\". Ludwig Hatschek invented vation and achievement by Austrian engineers and profes- an entirely new product that was not only waterp­ roof and sionals who devote all their attention to constantly enhancing unbreakable, but was also extremely cost-effective. In 1903 and expanding the range of products. All Eternit products, he registered a worldwide patent for this revolutionary new from roof shingles and roof tiles to façade elements, are material under the name \"Eternit\". Today the company ope­ manufactured with great precision using the latest machinery rates state-of-the-art production plants with high-tech ma- and are subject to constant stress testing and quality control. chinery and produces a wide range of outstanding top All Eternit products bear the Austria Quality Seal. quality products for buildings and roofs.

Eternit | Where it all began 45 First-class provider of services for the industry Ecology: working towards a sustainable future Dach und Wand Handels GmbH is a wholly owned subsidiary What does sustainability mean? Sticking to the rules? Meet- of Eternit, and is Austria's largest partner for roofers and ing environmental requirements? Or maybe more? We listen façade builders in the areas of trade and logistics. With an to our conscience. We deliver products and systems that ext­ensive network of branches, they can cover key sections are designed to last for decades, for generations to come. of the value chain from advice and storage to logistical We produce them in such a way that the energy cost and services. the emissions of harmful materials are kept to the absolute minimum. We comply with all the requirements and guidelines. But all this is still not enough for us. Almost all the raw ma- terials for our products are sourced from our immediate surrounding area. These are naturally occurring materials and only require transportation over short distances. When the product eventually needs to be replaced, the old mate- rial can be dismantled, disposed of without any reservations, or reused.

46 Eternit | Ideas for the future Ideas for the future Sculptural and hand shaped fibre cement turns into a light floating stage for exhibiting finest jewellery. Eternit’s «soft-look» fibre cement is a captured motion and combines the archaic power of fibre cement and the poetry of a flying carpet. Jewellery and Eternit, twin symbols of permanence. Shaping the future Our façade panels are the ideal material for contemporary, innovative, design-led architecture. An innovative stamping process gives the panels a spatial depth and a relief character that allows lively interplay between light and shadow. This turns the façade into a veritable one-off that provides a canvas for remarkably dramatic three-dimensional effects. The infinitely varied world of colour combines with individual options in the structure of the building, providing boundless aesthetic possibilities both within the building and on its outside.

Eternit | Eternit in action 47 Stylish cladding – Eternit in action 3 12 1 Housing complex, Plösslgasse, 2 \"Gross und Klein\" (Large and 3 Hm residential block, Vienna (AT) Small) residential block, Vienna (AT) Selzthal (AT) All the façade surfaces were clad with The building is clad with rear-ventilated Selzthal and this building plot lie nestled large-format fibre cement panels. The Eternit panels in varying tones of white. between the Ennstal Alps and the Rotten­ rounded edges of the building have a Striking building components such as mann Tauern, whose peaks rise to around radius of 80 cm and are clad with cur­ved the protruding bays and the south faça­ 2,450 metres above sea level. The moun- special elements that lend the building de on the first floor framed with awnings, tains with their snow-capped summits a totally unique appearance. This has are painted in discreetly contrasting col- define the character of the landscape all the effect of allowing the individual front- ours to accentuate the structure of the year round. The rugged interplay between ages to merge fluently one with the next. building and highlight the three-dimen- snow and rock and the frolics between The white façade boards lend the build- sional effect. This residential block also light and shadow are echoed in the de- ing a distinctive elegance and lightness. has a photovoltaic system that is su- sign of the building's façade. White and perbly integrated in technical terms, and dark-grey Eternit panels reference the so the building leaves nothing to be visual show up above. desired from the ecological perspective.

48 Eternit | Eternit and Vienna University of Technology Vienna University of Technology and Eternit- Werke Ludwig Hatschek AG have been involved in a two-way exchange programme for decades, and have found common ground in many projects. For example, as part of the Master’s course two lectures were held recently to explore fibre cement as a material and its malleability. Eternit and Vienna University of Technology – a collaboration for the benefit of the future Art meets design Whilst the art-related projects focused on producing an artistic object using appropriate materials and allowed students a great deal of freedom, in the \"Form and Design\" module the students were set the task of developing a new system for a building shell. The lecturers took the students on a visit to the manufacturing plant in Vöcklabruck, and that visit was followed by a briefing, information events and workshops for the students. The aim of these sessions was to gather ideas for the projects. The students then went on to refine their ideas and to prepare themselves for the workshop in Vöcklabruck, which was scheduled to be held over a number of days. The actual mock-ups and prototypes for the projects were then produced in Eternit's production halls. Before long some new approaches could be seen in action Completely new approaches and ways of thinking, along with some excellent mock-ups and prototypes, led to the results from the summer semester at the Vienna University of Technology being presented as part of Vienna Design Week. In close con- sultation with the students, some of the projects went on to receive continuing support. For instance, planning is already in progress for a number of supermarkets involving façade systems that were developed by the students.

Eternit 49 Black façade panels on a tower block designed by the architect Delugan Meissl, Vienna (AT)

50 swisspor Group | We look forward to a successful partnership The satisfaction and demands of our cus- tomers are the standard by which we mea­ sure ourselves when developing new pro­ ducts and solutions. However, we also want to offer you true added value in our daily business interactions – with outstanding service and comprehensive support so that you can be sure to achieve your goals. We look forward to a successful partnership One of the key strengths of the swisspor Group is its team spirit. The cohesion and sense of solidarity within our teams are correspondingly strong. At the Group level we make the most of valuable synergies between our subsidiaries, using them to achieve outstanding results. In this respect we view you as an especially valuable member of our team. This allows us to work with you in a transparent and smooth way – the optimum prerequisite for efficient processes. We take your requirements seriously and are dedicated to finding the best solution for each situation. In this way we develop a shared identity. We know that solid and long term business relationships are pro­ fitable for all parties involved and we consciously take responsib­ ility. We can never be satisfied unless you are. IMPRINT Publisher: swisspor Management AG, CH-6312 Steinhausen, Switzerland Contact: www.swisspor.ch Concept and realisation: Ottiger & Partner BSW AG, CH-6015 Lucerne, Switzerland, www.ottiger.ch, Management: Peter W. Ottiger, Design: Bernd Lacusteanu, Text: Dominik Studer, Lisa Kneubühler, Layout: Gregor Thoma Incorporating text from: Anton Neuenschwander, CH-3005 Bern, Switzerland, Translation: Translation- Probst AG, CH-8406 Winterthur, Switzerland Language versions: German, French, Italian, English and Polish Picture credits/photos: Felix Wey (pp. 2, 5, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23), Jürg Zimmermann (p. 3), swisspor (pp. 4, 5, 7, 9), Robert Aebli, Mercedes Benz Schweiz AG (p. 8), raumgleiter.gmbh (pp.16-17), Ottiger & Partner BSW AG (p. 25), swisswindows (pp. 26-33), Eternit (Schweiz) AG (pp. 34-41), F-Stop (pp. 42-45), Monika Nguyen (p. 46), Architecture: Koeck Architekten, Vienna / Photo: Monika Nguyen (p. 47), Architecture: Rahm Architekten, Vienna / Photo: Gisela Erlacher (p. 47), Architecture: YES-architecture DI Marion Wicher, Graz / Photo: Croce & Wir (p. 47), Christian Chladek (p. 48), Architecture: Delugan Meissl Associated Architects, Vienna / Photo: Hertha Hurnaus (p.49)