The Talk

Trust, Market Optimism and Growing Framing Diversity

I’ve played window historian on this blog in the past, tracking specifically the way that vinyl has ascended over the decades from a mistrusted bargain material to the undisputed market leader. Why the shift? There have been material improvements, of course. Standards and certifications helped, too…

Hope After the Storm

With hurricanes predicted to worsen in the coming years, according to a study by Yale University, the resiliency conversation is more important to the building products industry than ever. Certainly, smart building practices and materials are paramount to the conversation, but even the strongest of…

Five Steps to a Comprehensive Social Media Strategy

Being social with consumers online helps potential customers see your company as one that is run by caring, accessible people, and that inspires trust that can lead to sales. Social media marketing is a must to compete online today. But, window and door companies without a comprehensive strategy…

Three big themes from the Builders’ Show

I was one of the approximately 90,000 attendees to descend on the Las Vegas convention center last week for the International Builders’ Show at Design and Construction Week. Here are my three big takeaways from IBS 2020. 

Live from IBS 2020

More than 1,400 manufacturers and suppliers are occupying 600,000 net square feet of exhibit space this week at the NAHB International Builders' Show in Las Vegas. Editor-in-chief Emily Thompson is live on scene, exploring the show floor and uncovering the latest products in the fenestration…

Intent and Awareness

You probably already know that search engine optimization and social media aren't optional in today's market. But do you know some of the most important considerations that go into home improvement marketing via these channels?  

Ringing in the New

Happy New Year, Window + Door readers. We’re ringing in the new decade with an all-new WindowandDoor.com, a project we’ve been working on throughout 2019.

New Design Challenges for Impact Windows as ICC Ramps up U-Factors

Since 1992, when Category 5 Hurricane Andrew brought devastation to many of Florida’s southern cities, the state has been fairly aggressive in maintaining a strong building code to prevent similar damage from happening again.

How to Win at Marketing

Last week, I wrote about how Brian Elias has the whole marketing arena figured out in our remodeling space. I also laid out the six functions that businesses need to figure out in order to thrive, noting that almost nobody figures out the marketing side of the business.

Six Keys to a Thriving Business

I’ve met exactly one marketing genius in the remodeling industry since I began specializing in remodeling marketing in 2005. His name is Brian Elias, the charismatic owner of Hansons Windows in Detroit. He’s built an impressive business somewhere in the neighborhood of $70 million a year—not by…