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IN DEPTH: Doors and Windows

ProVia’s Shaw agrees. “Energy efficiency is an expectation today. Homeowners won’t sacrifice looks or style to get it, but they expect it will be there.” Those expectations were driven by the federal tax credits in 2010, he notes. “Now they assume energy efficiency is there even if they aren’t getting a credit.”

In both doors and windows, the glass package often makes the difference. “We rely on our glass manufacturers to help us achieve energy-efficiency levels,” says Dave Koester, brand manager at Weather Shield. “But energy codes are evolving to help us, too. They’re getting smarter about how to achieve the goals they want. Until recently, they were piecemeal and didn’t take into account the entire system. It’s important to consider how everything works together. The goal has to be to shore up all weak points.”

Energy Star Tightens
Key changes have occurred as Energy Star tightened its standards, eliminating many current models from its ratings. Tighter standards went into effect January 1 for much of the U.S., with the Northern Zone designated to meet the new higher standards January 1, 2016. To some extent, the new standards have reduced customers’ desires to buy Energy Star products.

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“Homeowners always are interested in energy efficiency, but they’re not as interested in Energy Star certification any more,” says Amanda Fowler, manager of channel marketing at ODL Inc. “Rebates for Energy Star-certified products went away, and new higher standards mean it can be costlier to get a product that meets the standards. Most of our products do comply, because some areas require compliance. Not many companies have as many certified options as we do, and many homeowners don’t want to pay extra just for certification.”

Ply Gem’s Montgomery agrees. “Homeowners expect code-level compliance,” he says. “Some are willing to spend additional dollars to achieve Energy Star levels, but most opt for code level performance, especially in new construction. In replacement projects, homeowners will upgrade from their existing level to higher energy packages.”

ODL-DIY-blindsODL’s Add-on/DIY Blinds were designed to install quickly and easily. Raised door frames require only a screwdriver for installation, while flush-frame doors require just a screwdriver and a drill. The blinds can be raised, lowered and tilted using the one-fingertip controller. The door-glass frame never requires painting or staining, but it can be painted or stained if desired.

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