High Performance Windows

PGT Industries recently introduced the SpectraGuard 2300 Series, its new line of energy efficient replacement vinyl windows. The complete SpectraGuard vinyl line for replacement or remodeling includes double-hung, horizontal roller, picture/fixed lite architectural and combination windows. Standard features include double-strength insulating glass, high-performance Solarban 60 Low-E glass and argon gas, as well as Super Spacer NXT technology, and all SpectraGuard products are Energy Star compliant. SpectraGuard windows purchased with a U-Factor of 0.30 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.30 qualify for the $1,500 credit in the Stimulus Plan.

“Energy efficiency will continue to be a top priority for homeowners, especially with reports of heating costs climbing and an uncertain economy,” says Les Stephens, product marketing manager for Jeld-Wen Windows
and Doors. “In addition, the federal tax credits available to homeowners will continue to drive demand for energy-efficient products. According to proprietary research from Jeld-Wen, 24 percent of homeowners hate their existing windows because they are leaky and drafty. That will continue to be a significant opportunity for the remodeling market.”

Alleviating difficulties

As more Americans refrain from upgrading to larger homes, they will require windows that suit their specific needs or simply make their lives easier.

“Products that contribute to a low-maintenance lifestyle are always popular,” says Stephens. “For windows, this often means choosing vinyl because of its reliability, ease of maintenance and affordability. In fact, when it comes to remodeling, vinyl products make up more than half of all replacement windows in residential projects.

“Wood, vinyl and aluminum are the most popular materials with homeowners. Vinyl dominates the market, comprising more than 50 percent of windows sold in 44 states. Vinyl is gaining the most momentum in all segments of replacement windows and now represents 65 percent of the market. Metal-clad wood windows are now more popular than primed and painted wood. Metal cladding offers very durable, low maintenance protection.”

To ease installation of Jeld-Wen vinyl windows, the company launched its TegraTite installation system. The system includes a one-piece sill drain mat that installs under the window on the rough opening, directing any incidental water away from the wall. The drain mat is made from flexible, non-woven material with a sloped, closed-cell foam back dam to block water, and it is backed with butyl-based adhesive. The system is designed to eliminate the need for flashing at the sill, the continuous shim and the drain screen. The drain mat is adjustable for all jamb depths so that one size fits all the company’s vinyl windows.

“Consumers are also becoming more educated with their purchases,” explains Chris Schield. “Most are learning aluminum-clad wood windows are virtually maintenance-free and perform comparably or sometimes better than vinyl windows.”

He adds, “Baby boomers are making upgrades to their homes with higher quality, more desirable products because it’s unlikely they will move again in their lifetime and they want products that are aesthetically appealing and energy-efficient.”

Marvin has expanded its Ultimate Casement and Awning Collection to include the Ultimate Push Out Casement and Awning. This collection features handles that open the window in a simple turn. The products are equipped with commercial-grade hardware allowing for large sizes and numerous configurations. The hardware is also an integral part of the product’s wash mode, which allows the homeowner to wash the exterior glass of the casement from the inside. The Ultimate Push Out Casement and Awning has a swinging screen with a standard wood surround designed to blend with the interior of the window.

Upgrading without relocating

According to Schield, “Homeowners are ‘waiting out’ the economy and the return of home values and therefore want products that are beautiful and enhance their living environment. They appreciate the authenticity and character of wood, and options such as exterior color choices, interior wood species, a variety of grille styles, decorative glass and hardware finishes.”

Due to its inherent energy efficiency, stability and durability, fiberglass is also gaining in popularity. Both Weather Shield and Peachtree offer fiberglass-clad windows that are available in many options for customizing a look through grilles, interior wood species and hardware. Zo-e-shield glazing systems on the fiberglass products deliver better energy efficiency ratings (U-factor and solar heat gain coefficients).