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May 14, 2012
Manufacturers may be ready to invest in new equipment again
Window and door manufacturers are retooling, with equipment suppliers reporting more activity of late. New machinery purchases are still limited by the wide availability of used equipment—and many companies remain cautious about the market outlook—but investment in production operations appear to be on the rise.
Opinions are definitely mixed on how big that increase may be. “We...
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May 14, 2012
This article accompanies our main equipment market overview in the June/July issue.
Last year, GED Integrated Systems introduced the Automated Tri-Lite Assembly System, an automated line for producing triple-glazed units at a competitive cost. Featuring unique capabilities such as “touchless” handling of the center lite of the triple-lite IG, the line has received positive...
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May 11, 2012
Charles O. Everly—a friend to many in our industry and a prolific contributor to its advancement—passed April 8, 2012 at the age of 81 after a long illness. Charlie’s dedication to the codes and standards arena will not be forgotten, as he was instrumental in promoting industry positions and facilitating the understanding of complex code provisions and enforcement challenges....
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May 10, 2012
American Vision Windows sets sights on solar, garage doors and window coverings to thrive during the recession
American Vision Windows started selling windows, but the business has evolved in recent years, diversifying with the addition of a broad array of product lines. The expansion in product offerings, however, hasn’t changed the company’s focus—American Vision remains a home improvement company, working with owners to increase the energy efficiency and value of their homes....
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May 10, 2012
Quanex Building Products has begun an initiative to better inform our customers of changes in programs and legislation in Washington that may impact the fenestration industry. We are investing in lobbying and dedicating resources to actively develop our influence with key members of Congress and departments, such as the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.
We have...
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May 9, 2012
In recent weeks, I’ve been chatting with a few people in the industry about operations challenges they’ve tackled in the last year or so. Sure—money is tight all around. But some companies are carving out the budgetary space to explore efficiencies and add capabilities. From sales and marketing to scheduling to installation and service, window and door companies are still...
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May 9, 2012
Triple-glazing and R-5 products aren’t for everyone, but some manufacturers see opportunities with these products
New Energy Star criteria are likely to improve window energy efficiency numbers across the board, but numerous manufacturers offer triple-pane and R-5 type windows exceeding those expected levels already. Most see a growing market for such products too, with much of the demand is driven by dealers.
Manufacturers like Ply Gem report that more dealers are opting for higher-...
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May 7, 2012
The International Code Council Group A hearings concluded this week, with the organization making plans to allow remote voting in coming code change cycles. The hearings also saw votes on a number of American Architectural Manufacturers Association proposals covering such matters as threshold heights, wind load provisions and flashing.
The ICC has established a goal of fully implementing remote...
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May 1, 2012
Many companies will need to be more cautious in their energy savings claims
The Federal Trade Commission fired a warning shot in February, when five replacement window companies were cited for making unsubstantiated energy savings claims to homeowners about their products. Some executives welcomed the FTC actions, but it's clear many manufacturers and dealers are now re-examining of the parameters of acceptable marketing and making adjustments in their advertising...
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May 1, 2012
We’re looking at social media use among window and door dealers and manufacturers in our August issue. Do you have a success story to share on how you’re connecting to customers using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other such tools?
I'll try to kickstart the conversation with this week's poll question. And whether you're a supplier, manufacturer, dealer or consultant, I'...
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May 9, 2012Triple-glazing and R-5 products aren’t for everyone, but some manufacturers see opportunities with these productsNew Energy Star criteria are likely to improve window energy efficiency numbers across the board, but numerous manufacturers offer triple-pane and R-5 type windows exceeding those expected levels already. Most see a growing market for such products too, with much of the demand is driven by dealers. Manufacturers like Ply Gem report that more dealers are opting for higher-... more »