Window trends 2012
Trends in the residential window market include triple-pane glass, larger sizes, reclaimed wood and darker colors
Where are window trends going? What’s next?
Energy efficiency will continue to be an important factor in 2012. Changes in codes and increased interest from homeowners who are looking to save money year after year on utility bill costs will drive the demand for improved energy efficiency. Jeld-Wen has been on the forefront of this issue for many years. We’ve been an Energy Star partner since 1998 and we continue to participate in the many industry and government discussions that help improve energy efficiency. And we offer more products that are Energy Star-qualified than other manufacturers.
KOLBE
What’s happening in the window market?
Consumers are focusing on a few different facets of window and door products, including unique materials, large(r) windows and doors, and energy performance. Special wood species are being requested more frequently as an avenue to differentiate their windows and doors and make them distinctive. Randy Helzer, vice president of sales for Point Five Windows, says quarter-sawn Sapele has been popular as of late. Consumers are realizing that wood provides the warmth and organic feel to their homes and are looking for exotic species to accentuate its properties. In addition, glass performance has increased over the past few years, allowing manufacturers to use larger expanses in both windows and doors, providing those large, unobstructed views popular in the high-end market without compromising energy efficiency.
What window products do you offer?
Kolbe’s Beveled Direct Set is a product that can be used for the more contemporary projects. Its refined design works very well in that architectural style. We also offer triple-pane products in many of our products series from our premium vinyl Latitude and Windquest Series to our extruded aluminum clad line Ultra Series. These products provide the best energy performance for those northern areas of the United States and Canada that require it. Kolbe has also recently expanded its offering of IPD4 and HVHZ-approved products for those areas in the south and along the east coast that require these higher-performance impact products.
Where are window trends going? What’s next?
Energy Star 2013 is going to be a major impetus for change in the window and door industry. A product’s energy performance will be scrutinized along with its ability to provide the function and aesthetics the consumer needs. Point Five’s Helzer says automation is another growing trend in the market. Sliding patio doors or hopper units that can operate with a keypad or remote system are gaining popularity in the high-end market. In terms of specific products and option trends, there is a movement toward using products that are not normally found in the North American market such as tilt-turn windows. Kolbe will be introducing an Ultra Series Tilt-Turn product at this year’s IBS which is tailored to the ‘North American’ market and meets Energy Star requirements.
MARVIN
What’s happening in the window market?
Consumers want both performance and style, and they’re not willing to compromise on either. Superior energy efficiency is an absolute must. Low-emissivity coatings tailored to a particular climate are becoming standard operating procedure. Ease of maintenance continues to be a major consideration for consumers. We’re also seeing continued growth and demand for fiberglass products. The Ultrex pultruded fiberglass on our Integrity line of windows leads the industry as the first and only material with AAMA 623-10 certification on the patented finish. The demand for durable, long-lasting products that are going to perform is creating additional growth opportunities for our Integrity products.
What window products do you offer?
Our Tripane with Krypton is the most energy-efficient option we’ve ever offered. It’s available across a wide range of Marvin windows. We’ve seen a great response to our new factory-painted white interior finish option. We’ve continued to add features to our Ultimate Casement line, keeping that revolutionary product freshly updated. We’ve also introduced special sizes on our Integrity Wood-Ultrex windows, giving builders and remodelers more opportunities to experience the benefits of Integrity’s Ultrex material.
