Windows: Beyond Energy Efficiency
Marvin Windows and Doors
Functionality concerns: “Energy efficiency is the number-one functionality concern for consumers. And, how a window performs in its 10th year is just as important as how it performs in the first. And as the remodeling and replacement market continues to be strong, homeowners want products that match their existing styles, but perform to modern standards. And ease of maintenance has become a key consideration,” says John Kirchner, public relations manager, Marvin Windows and Doors.
Design drivers: “We’re seeing a real demand for indoor-outdoor living at the high end. People are looking at products that open up the outdoors. Related to this is a desire for natural ventilation. And grilles between the glass are increasingly popular, giving the look of divided lites,” Kirchner says.
Product-design response: “At this year’s IBS, we introduced our new Clad Ultimate Glider. It’s energy-efficient, smooth to operate and has a removable sash for easy maintenance,” Kirchner says. “Our Venting Picture Window is a true innovation in natural ventilation. This comes with a need for screens, and we’ve recently introduced an improved retractable screen.”
Milgard Windows and Doors
Functionality concerns: “One trend that will not go away anytime soon is energy efficiency. But as standards across the board become higher, expectations for more efficient products that don’t require expensive upgrades also will become higher. And, as we move beyond the era of tax credits, expect to see more emphasis placed on functionality as a way to add value,” says Maureen Faccia, director, fiberglass product management, Milgard Windows and Doors.
Design drivers: “In terms of style, traditional remains strong, as double-hung windows continue to be the most popular choice. However, the tide may be turning, as we’re seeing growth of more contemporary styles, such as gliders, and we expect this trend to pick up as younger buyers enter the housing market in the next five years,” Faccia says
Product-design response: “Given the window’s increasing role as a style maker, and the fact that more people are looking at homes as a long-term investment, we’ve taken a hybrid approach to window design,” Faccia says. “Our Essence Series features fiberglass on the outside and natural wood on the inside, with a new finishing process that allows more exterior color options than wet-coat applications. And our Premium Vinyl Tuscany Series is finding its way into higher-end homes. It offers greater customization, new offerings – such as Swinging Patio Doors, and new exterior vinyl finishes.
Pella Corp.
Functionality concerns: “Energy efficiency is simply an expectation in today’s market. We also have experienced an increase in local codes adopting higher wind-zone requirements and in geographic areas requiring windborne debris protection, which, in turn, requires the use of impact-resistant glazing or shutters. And consumers are looking for features that simply make their lives easier. Windows and doors that have blinds or shades between the glass, for example, eliminate the need for dusting room-side window treatments,” says Polly Tousey, product manager, Pella Corp.
Design drivers: “Customization and design flexibility – we still see a variety of architectural styles that use a variety of different products. For example, wood types, like mahogany, alder and Douglas fir, are used to complement the architecture, cabinets, furniture, floor and trim in the home. European window styles, like French casements and tilt-turn windows, also are becoming more popular,” Tousey says.
Product-design response: “Pella’s Designer Series windows and patio doors provide the convenience of window fashions between the panes of glass, yet allow flexibility to change the color, fabric or style as your life or décor changes,” Tousey says. “Pella also offers one-of-a-kind products, like our Rolscreen retractable screens, Vivid View screens, the integrated casement crank and the self-closing sliding screen door. And Pella offers the ability to design windows online.
