Latest Articles in Segments

  • May 9, 2012
    FEATURE ARTICLE | Products, Energy Efficiency, Segments

    Is There a Market Beyond Energy Star?
    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-... more »
  • April 18, 2012
    FEATURE ARTICLE | Codes & Standards, Energy Efficiency, Segments

    Energy Star Homes Program Spurring Demand for High Performance Windows Too
    A growing number of new home builders have found a point of differentiation in the marketplace by offering Energy Star-qualified homes. Studies reveal that homebuyers feel good about being good stewards of the environment—but they feel even better about saving money on energy bills. Consequently, with more people staying in their homes longer, energy-rated homes are becoming an easier sell... more »
  • January 1, 2012
    SPECIAL FEATURES | Segments, Channels, Markets & Trends

    The 2012 Industry Pulse
    Survey reveals dealers, distributors and manufacturers are extremely cautious about business outlook
    The window and door industry is looking at the coming year with extreme caution, according to the 2012 Industry Pulse, Window & Door’s exclusive annual survey of industry executives. North American window and door manufacturers and dealers remain guarded in their expectations for the economy as a whole and window and door demand in general.  This year's study indicates less... more »
  • November 3, 2011
    Meetings & Events | Segments, Markets & Trends

    Win-Door Returns to Toronto This Month
    Annual event once again provides focal point for Canadian industry
    Canadian window and door manufacturers are grappling with new codes and regulations, and the need to stay up-to-date on changes is expected to help drive attendance at this year's Win-Door North America. With more than 150 exhibitors signed up, the annual trade show returns once again to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, November 15-17.      Win-Door will once again... more »
  • August 10, 2011
    THE TALK... | Methods & Techniques, Segments, Markets & Trends

    Do You Restore or Repair?
    This week, we share with you news that a group of window restoration specialists is working to raise the profile of their unique niche within the window and door industry. They are developing standards for restoring and preserving historic fenestration products, older wood and steel windows in particular. These specialists, who enjoy the support historic preservation groups and others, also hope... more »
  • August 9, 2011
    COLUMN : Dealer Perspectives | Products, Segments, Markets & Trends

    Historic Opportunities
    Older buildings, especially those located in our historic cities, provide significant opportunities for dealers, especially for companies that have seen dramatic decreases in their residential business. Considering the scale of the opportunity and the slow pace of the housing recovery, many dealers may be considering entering this niche. If you do, be careful. Commercial sales can represent a big... more »
  • August 1, 2011
    FEATURE ARTICLE | Segments, Markets & Trends

    'Bigger is Still Better' in Luxury Market
    Manufacturers see continued growth opportunities for high-end products, particularly wide-opening doors
    Spectacular homes often feature spectacular views. It’s no surprise that architects and owners want to maximize these views with walls of glass. Over the last few decades, door and window makers catering to this market have gone a step further, enabling owners to not only fully enjoy their views but bridge interior and exterior spaces with wide-opening door systems that can almost... more »
  • February 7, 2011
    THE TALK... | Segments, Markets & Trends

    Should We Look at HomeStar Again?
    Personally, I thought HomeStar was dead.  And given our current Congress, it may be, but President Obama brought it up again last week. Re-emphasizing his commitment to energy efficiency, he said would push for the initiative as part of his his next proposed budget.  I know there are a lot mixed industry feelings on HomeStar.  Some people like the idea of incentivizing homeowners... more »
  • January 5, 2011
    Meetings & Events | Products, Segments

    Builders' Show Heads Back to Florida
    Weak market still likely to weigh on NAHB event
    Coming off two years in Las Vegas, perhaps a change of scenery will do some good for the International Builders' Show.  The annual trade show hosted by the National Association of Home Builders returns this year to Florida, where it's set to run next week at the Orange County Convention Center. Last year’s IBS was more compact, but also seemed busier and more upbeat than the 2009... more »
  • September 22, 2010
    COLUMN : Opening Remarks | Segments, Channels

    A Forum for Sharing Ideas
    There are some unique characters out there to be sure, but the window and door dealers I’ve met over the years usually possess a lively combination of energy, enthusiasm, intelligence and downright friendliness. Those traits typically bubble up to the surface with our Dealers of the Year recognition program. The stories of the companies and individuals we recognize as Dealers of the Year... more »