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June 15, 2007
Mulled windows are the darling of designers—“the introduction of light and the feeling of space”—you know what I mean. A proliferation of mulls done poorly, however, can represent an “Achilles’ heel” that can cause an otherwise vigorous company to falter.
We have struggled with mulls through joinery and sealant concerns, education in the trades regarding...
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June 15, 2007
Demand for higher levels of energy efficiency will continue to push the envelope
Consideration of daylighting is gaining momentum within energy codes. That was the theme of a column written by Julie Ruth in the March issue of Window & Door, and it is true. This article is designed to serve as a counterpoint, however, to her assertion that “according to the two predominant codes for energy efficient construction currently used in the United States, the ideal energy-...
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April 1, 2007
Glass coatings blocking UV rays offer new way to differentiate window lines
Homes are developing their own personalities. From exotic hardwood floors to intensely-colored walls and luxurious fabrics and furnishings, today’s dwelling is a reflection of its owner’s style and taste. As such, a home’s interior has taken on greater significance. More than shelter, a house serves as family center, entertainment destination and cozy, creative cocoon. A...
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April 1, 2007
Adding laminated glass can significantly enhance a window’s acoustic performance
For anyone exposed to the hustle and bustle of congested urban or suburban life—from traffic to construction to airport noise to all manner of human activity—the need to keep loud noises outside of one’s living or working area is understood. More window manufacturers today are recognizing this need and looking at how their products can address it.
The following is a...
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March 1, 2007
Suppliers expect recent upgrades in casement hardware to spread to other product offerings as well
It seems the tide is turning a bit when it comes to product development in the casement hardware arena. The focus used to be on performance and durability, but today the trend is toward enhanced aesthetics and developing hardware with style. That’s not to say performance isn’t important—just that window manufacturers are looking for product that looks good while it’s...
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March 1, 2007
Annual event sees window and door manufacturers continuing to expand lines and provide more “classic” looks
Orlando, FL—Window and door manufacturers rolled out more options, filled out product lines and launched new branding initiatives at the 2007 International Builders’ Show held in February. With no “big” new products, the most noteworthy element of the show may have been the positive attitudes expressed by exhibitors and attendees alike.
Despite a down housing market...
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March 1, 2007
Benefits seen in patio door market are translating into growing demand for entry doors
Society continues to demand better and better security, both at home and work. Homeowners and businesses alike want to ensure they are protected against the opportunist thief. Additionally, insurance companies have been quick to demand that every practical step is taken to minimize the risk of theft. The reporting of crime suggests this problem is not going away, and none of us wants to...
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March 1, 2007
Trend is toward more integrated systems in the OEM market
Retractable or self-storing screens have been around for many years, but these screens have seen accelerated growth recently. They have caught on as a popular option in particular for patio, French and entry doors.
The latest trend is for manufacturers to provide integrated retractable screens in their windows. With consumers clearly seeing the benefits in doors, more manufacturers see a...
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February 15, 2007
Overcoming the barrier of consumer awareness to sell
Fiberglass entry doors have been on the market since the early ’80s. Particularly in recent years, the category has grown by leaps and bounds thanks to dealers, builders and remodelers who promote the performance benefits of fiberglass to their customers. But while the presence of fiberglass continues to grow faster than traditional materials, consumer awareness of fiberglass remains...
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March 1, 2006
Efficient windows and doors are just the beginning in project incorporating ‘zero-energy’ concepts
Over the last several months, Pollard Windows has been involved with an educational housing project spearheaded by BASF, the chemical company, as part of their “Better Home, Better Planet” initiative. I’ve been thrilled to be involved for many reasons—from helping to learn more about environmental building practices, to gaining more exposure for my company, to helping a...
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June 15, 2007Demand for higher levels of energy efficiency will continue to push the envelopeConsideration of daylighting is gaining momentum within energy codes. That was the theme of a column written by Julie Ruth in the March issue of Window & Door, and it is true. This article is designed to serve as a counterpoint, however, to her assertion that “according to the two predominant codes for energy efficient construction currently used in the United States, the ideal energy-... more »
February 15, 2007Overcoming the barrier of consumer awareness to sellFiberglass entry doors have been on the market since the early ’80s. Particularly in recent years, the category has grown by leaps and bounds thanks to dealers, builders and remodelers who promote the performance benefits of fiberglass to their customers. But while the presence of fiberglass continues to grow faster than traditional materials, consumer awareness of fiberglass remains... more »