Window Trends 2007

September 12th, 2007

As the new housing boom slows to a crawl, a larger number of homeowners are closely considering remodeling and renovation projects.

Improving existing property, and thereby raising its value, is far more appealing in today’s housing market. In lieu of moving, home-owners are turning to remodelers to make a specific and striking difference in their homes.

Recognizing this demand, manufacturers are focusing their energies on addressing the main issues facing remodelers. With a wide array of products, programs and resources, window manufacturers are armed and ready to assist with dramatic remodel jobs, climate-related concerns, cost-effective customization needs and even training and preventing call-backs.

“The general trend I see in windows for 2007 will be a continued growth in the replacement window and remodeling market,” says Ernie DeBacco, national sales manager for Weather Shield’s Visions Windows & Doors. “I think the new construction market will stay flat. With the housing market as it is, people tend to stay in their homes and fix them up rather than move or build something new.”

This trend creates a bevy of opportunities for remodelers. DeBacco adds, “The remodeling market for windows is continuously growing — there are millions of houses out there that need their windows replaced. It’s a market that continues to regenerate itself with no end to the cycle.”

Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest trends in the coming year promises to be based on the instability of rising and falling energy prices. Weather Shield brand manager, Dave Koester, says, “As far as housing goes, the overall energy efficiency will be a very big thing in 2007 as gas prices fluctuate.”

In response, Weather Shield introduced Zo-e-shield featuring an exclusive glazing system now available on many of the company’s windows.

Zo-e-shield state-of-the-art glazing systems are custom engineered to improve a home’s energy usage while protecting and enhancing comfort levels. This new technology promises the lowest center-of-glass U-values and solar heat gain coefficients. Zo-e-shield protects the home’s interior from harmful UV rays while allowing more visible light into the home.

Solar Block Plus windows from Hy-Lite prevent solar heat gain from entering the home with a smoke-colored tint that is added to the raw acrylic of the block during the fabrication stage of the products. This tinting helps make the windows more energy efficient than regular glass or acrylic block windows. “We call it ‘sun block for the home’ because the window block side facing the sun with the tinting helps restrict heat gain from entering the home and increasing energy costs,” says Bruce Oellerich, marketing manager for Hy-Lite Products. “This product meets Energy Star requirements for the Southern zone of the United States.”

“Energy efficient windows are definitely a top priority when it comes to remodeling projects,” says Rod Clark, product marketing manager, Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors. “We find many homeowners want to change out their windows because the old ones are inefficient. The technology has improved dramatically from the single paned windows of yesteryears.”

Currently available in the Southeast, Jeld-Wen vinyl and aluminum windows with ImpactGard promise maximum protection in extreme conditions. The ImpactGard protection system is a complete window system that includes laminated glass, which means it has an interlayer sandwiched between two sheets of glass designed to deliver extra impact resistance. ImpactGard is available in monolithic or with insulating glass, including optional Low-E glass for greater energy efficiency an overall comfort.

Coastal Concerns

Another type of protection from environmental elements weighs heavily on the minds of homeowners. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina instilled the general public with a realization of the importance of protection from the forces of nature. Impact-resistant windows help protect the structure from hurricane damage and, in many areas, also offer a price break on astronomical insurance rates.

“The 2004/2005 hurricane season increased awareness,” explains Dave Olmstead, senior public affairs and code compliance specialist for PGT Industries. “But the after effect is that people in coastal areas are seeing huge increases in insurance. Their only alternative is mitigations. We’re seeing huge interest in public awareness and impact resistance products.”

PGT Industries recently added a double-hung window, French door and fixed casement window to its line of WinGuard Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors with vinyl frames. Standard features for the WinGuard Vinyl Series DH 560 include 7/8-in. laminated insulating glass, removable full screen, double weatherstripped interlocking tilt sashes and deluxe swivel locking hardware.

Silver Line’s Weather Stopper Impact-Resistant Windows and Patio Doors are designed to guard the home from wind, rain and the subsequent after-damage caused by hurricanes and storms.

“The premise in a storm, and particularly a hurricane, is to keep what’s happening outside from entering the home,” said Peter Thornton, Silver Line’s director of engineering. “Weather Stopper Impact-Resistant windows are designed to endure impact from wind-blown debris and keep the home sealed from wind pressure that can compromise and weaken the entire structure in severe cases.”

Atrium SafeHarbor impact-resistant windows are available in both aluminum and vinyl, and are engineered to protect against dangerous weather, including hurricane force winds and flying debris. Created to resist hurricane force winds and meet code specifications required in most states, SafeHarbor Windows’ impact-resistant construction meets all AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association) specifications for hurricane impact and cycle testing standards.

Chris Monroe, Simonton Windows vice president of marketing, says, “Codes are increasingly becoming stricter in coastal states. In the past this affected mostly new construction projects, but we believe remodelers will see code enforcement become a larger issue for renovating and remodeling projects in 2007. Remodelers should pay close attention to codes in their areas related to coastal products since this will become a larger focus issue for them in 2007.”

Knowledge

More and more manufacturers are developing support services and training programs to meet the needs of their customers and their customers’ customers. There is now a range of support and training programs targeting every level of the window industry channel, from dealers and remodelers to homeowners and architects.

“Because 2007 is being forecast generally as a more economically challenging year with housing starts projected to be lower than in the past, this places a greater focus on remodeling,” said Chris Monroe. “Manufacturers will be more competitive than ever before in trying to support remodelers. High service levels and quality products become even more important to remodelers in a down market.”

Hurd Windows & Doors offers Installation Masters training. “It isn’t enough to just offer quality products and services to our customers any more,” explained Joe Herman, Hurd vice president sales and marketing. “We also need to offer training to our customers so that they understand how to properly install our products. Poor installation techniques can defeat the advantages of the product and result in air or water leaks, wasted energy or improper operation.”

In consideration of this increased need for training and certification, Weather Shield and Peachtree have both developed Installation Masters training programs. Through these courses companies help remodelers in training their installers through AAMA certified Installation Masters courses. These programs ensure that installers are fully trained in all aspects of installation so that later complications are avoided.

To disseminate the most up-to-date information, PGT established PGT University. “We educate the dealers, builders, building officials and architects on every thing from building codes to energy requirements and now even green building techniques,” explained Dave Olmstead. “Our goal is to make sure the people we work with have information that is accurate and up-to-date. Building codes are a moving target; they’re constantly changing. We teach installation techniques and even building practices.”

Realizing the need for support through the entire channel, Craig Blomker, Andersen Windows remodeling market manager, says, “We provide numerous support marketing materials including signage, product samples and corner sections. We also help them market their business through our HomeTalkTours.com Web site, where remodelers can showcase their projects to consumers.”

Challenges

With the thriving R&R market, window manufacturers have heeded the call of remodelers seeking better warranties and installation simplification. Window manufacturers are well aware of the many challenges facing remodelers, and have discovered some innovative solutions to resolve their difficulties.

“As any remodeler knows, installing a window plumb and level in an existing opening is more challenging than framing a new window,” explains Chris Schield, replacement and remodeling project manager for Peachtree Doors & Windows. “A poor installation can result in crooked trim, leaky windows, and windows that don’t open and close properly because they’re out of alignment. If not installed properly, windows could experience stress cracks in the sash and frame after time.”

“For remodelers who don’t replace windows every day, remembering all the nuances of measuring, installing and trimming replacement windows can be a challenge,” says Craig Blomker. “Many contractors will tell you that getting a weather-tight installation is the most important aspect of a replacement window because poor weather tightness of their old window is typically the reason the homeowner is replacing it.”

Andersen’s Woodwright replacement window is complete with detailed Web and printed instructions to help with the measurement and installation process. This replacement window package includes almost everything a remodeler will need to thoroughly install the window, eliminating the need to order them or buy them. The window includes install screws, shims, backer rod, and even the exterior trim pieces to help ensure quality, efficient installations.

According to Maureen Faccia, manager-marketing communications manager for Milgard Manufacturing, Inc., “with many manufacturers, the remodelers are the ones who have to perform warranty and service work. This takes time that could otherwise be spent on the next project.”

Faccia adds, “Milgard provides direct warranty service, which is unique in the industry. If there is a warranty issue with a window, Milgard handles it, allowing the remodeler to move on to the next project while maintaining his or her reputation of being responsive and attentive.”

Material

When it comes to window material, preference has traditionally differed by locale and project. However, window technology has advanced and improved offerings in wood, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass, so whether you’re working on a niche project or a making a climate-related decision, the choices are abundant.

Chris Schield says, “Wood and vinyl products are the most popular materials with remodelers, with both being used in the entire range of projects from entrylevel to highend. Remodelers who specialize in window replacement tend to prefer vinyl windows because this can be a more price-driven segment of the market. The more extensive, upscale remodeling projects more often use wood windows.

For replacing windows with damaged or rotting exterior trim or frames, Crestline offers the Replacement Window with Applied Brickmould from Crestline Windows & Doors. The new product is ideal for applications that require a full replacement window, frame and exterior trim.

“Homeowners and contractors alike will appreciate the new Replacement Window with Applied Brickmould,” said Jeffrey Orme, Crestline’s brand manager. “In a relatively short amount of time, these windows can dramatically change the look and energy efficiency of a home while providing a complete window replacement. With this product, and our existing sash kits and pocket windows, Crestline now offers products for every replacement situation.”

The Silver Line Series 8700 Replacement Sliding Window is the perfect solution when space limitations prohibit the use of projecting windows. Silver Line offers this two-lite sliding window with Weather Stopper Impact Resistant protection, which features reinforced sashes and laminated glass. This vinyl window promises to protect homes from the damaging effects of severe weather, including hurricanes and tropical storms. Another added feature is a design pressure rating of 50.

Milgard Windows & Doors has introduced the new Mastri Series of premium vinyl replacement windows and patio doors beginning with the Midwest and on the East coast. To maximize energy savings and lifetime durability, the Mastri series offers an argon gas-filled, dual-glazed insulated glass unit featuring nonmetallic Super Spacer technology to separate the glass panes and reduce energy loss compared with older metal spacer technology to reduce interior condensation problems. The windows feature Milgard SunCoat Low-E insulating glass, which both reduces summertime solar heat gain and helps block wintertime heat loss.

Peachtree Doors & Windows’ latest addition to the 700 Series line of aluminum-clad windows and patio doors, oversized casement windows offers better views, more natural sunlight, and increased airflow. In an effort to keep up with recent trends and customers’ requests, Peachtree has added the oversized casements with heights reaching 6 ft. 7 in., 7 ft., and 7 ft. 6 in. The new windows have a single throw, triple locking mechanism for ease of use and security.

Pella has added a new double-hung window to the Pella Impervia line, which includes single-hung windows, sliding windows, fixed windows and sliding patio doors. In addition, an 8-ft. sliding patio door offers architects and specifiers another durable design options. Pella’s five-layer Duracast fiberglass composite material is nine times stronger than vinyl and twice as strong as aluminum in tensile strength tests. Duracast offers greater resistance to condensation and superior thermal comfort for a cost-effective, more thermally efficient alternative to aluminum products.

Style

“When it comes to remodeling, homeowners are taking a staged approach and focusing on the projects that will make the biggest difference/impact in their homes,” says Jeld-Wen’s Rod Clark. “For example, when it comes to windows, home-owners are increasing the view — size does matter! Bigger units to allow more light and enhance indoor/outdoor living.”

“Homeowners are wanting bigger and better views from their homes, and they’re wanting to blend their indoor and outdoor environments,” says Chris Schield, replacement and remodeling project manager for Peachtree Doors & Windows. “Similarly, homeowners are adding patio doors throughout their homes — from the kitchen to the great room to the master bedroom.”

Marvin Windows and Doors has introduced the Venting Picture Window, providing a combination of unobstructed views and cross ventilation. The window’s sash projects 2 1/4 in. outward to reveal a screened-in opening that vents air, reduces condensation and keeps out insects.

“Historically, homeowners and architects have had to make a trade-off between enjoying big, beautiful unobstructed views and ventilation,” explains Dan Lang, product planner for Marvin. If they choose to install stationary windows with large expanses of glass, they have a spectacular view but windows that can’t open. With Marvin’s Venting Picture Window, there are no more trade-offs.” The Venting Picture Window’s patent-pending hidden screen resists mold, mildew and ultraviolet rays.

Kolbe’s new push-out casement and awning windows feature divided lites with an unobtrusive, lever handle in an oil-rubbed finish that operates a single-point lock. The sash swings open with a simple push of the lever and stainless steel friction hinges keep the open sash in place. Natural brass or satin nickel handle finishes and multipoint locks may be requested. In-swing hinged screens feature magnetic catches and a pull knob that matches the unit’s lever handle and retractable screens for unobstructed views.

Hurd Windows & Doors, Inc. has introduced the Kingsview Window Line. With historic-inspired style and advanced engineering, Kingsview windows work equally well in a new dream home, historic renovation or light commercial project.

“Kingsview windows transform a familiarly classic single-hung into an extraordinary window,” said Joe Herman, vice president of sales and marketing for Hurd Windows & Doors. “We engineered this window with passionate attention to detail and the result is a major step forward in window technology.”

As the replacement and remodeling market grows, manufacturers are eager deliver the broadest offering of products to match today’s trends and they’re there to help.

As Dave Olmstead advises, “Do your homework before you make purchases on windows and doors. In this day and age the resources are there so you can go out and in a few hours be completely knowledgeable.”

By Harry Spaulding

Entry Filed under: Window & Doors Resource