Pella Pressroom : Fast Facts

Pick prefinished Pella� windows and doors for added quality, convenience

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:23:00 -0500

Finishing windows and doors can be a tedious, time-consuming and costly proposition that many builders, remodelers and homeowners dread. Yet finishing of many materials like wood and fiberglass is required to help protect the window or door material from the elements. That’s why investing in factory prefinished products is an attractive option for many, saving the time and hassle of finishing on the job site. Pella’s vinyl and Pella Impervia® fiberglass windows and patio doors are standard factory-prefinished. Pella wood products, along with fiberglass and steel entry doors, can now also be ordered prefinished from the factory.

Pella engineers estimate that factory prefinishing saves at least four hours of finishing time for each Pella wood window alone ─ a significant time and cost savings for contractors, or homeowners who tackle the job themselves or hire others to do it for them.

For added convenience and a consistent look, Pella’s wood windows, patio doors and entry doors, as well as fiberglass or steel doors, can be ordered prefinished. Options range from White to a range of colors or popular stains to complement wood tones in a home or commercial setting.

Finished with finishing?
When it comes to factory prefinished looks and color tones, the choice is yours. To complement many interior designs popular today, an optional prefinished White interior is available on Pella wood windows and patio doors. Designer Series® products and wood entry doors are also available in prefinished stains. Pella’s professional factory-applied stained finish helps seal the wood and enhances its natural beauty.

Since entryways are often a focal point, you can also choose complimentary or contrasting interior and exterior colors on Pella fiberglass entry doors and the convenient EnduraClad® frame.

Factory prefinishing is also available in an assortment of paint colors on Pella steel entry doors, from Hartford Green to Brick Red and Naval, for example.

Professionally finished from the factory
Pella applies the finish in a controlled setting by spraying it evenly over the surface prior to assembly to ensure a consistent and uniform appearance, helping reduce blotchiness that can occur in corners and other areas where pieces meet.

With prefinished stains used on Pella wood products, the process includes:
•    Translucent stain pigments to give the color desired, while allowing all the natural character and beauty of the wood to shine through.
•    A sealant applied to help protect the grain, and form a foundation for topcoat adhesion.
•    Multiple layers of an exclusive two-part topcoat, to provide weather- and UV-resistance.

For more information on prefinished window and door options, visit pella.com or call 888-847-3552. Follow Pella on Twitter.com @Pella_News.

The facts about energy-efficient windows and doors

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 09:51:00 -0500

With all the chat on green topics, energy conservation and energy-efficient products, today’s consumers may question what separates fact from fiction on true energy savings. For instance, is it really worthwhile to replace old windows and doors with more energy-efficient ones? The answer is yes. And the proof is in the performance and the potential utility savings.

ENERGY STAR®
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR program helps identify products proven to be energy efficient. Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2008 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 29 million cars — all while saving $19 billion on their utility bills.*

In a home, according to ENERGY STAR, energy-efficient choices can save families about a third on their energy bill with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions, without sacrificing features, style or comfort.**

For businesses, EPA offers the ENERGY STAR partnership, a proven energy management strategy that helps measure current energy performance, sets goals, tracks savings, and rewards improvements. EPA provides an innovative energy performance rating system which businesses have already used for more than 80,000 buildings across the country.

“Today’s budget-conscious consumers are placing a priority on energy-saving products. To help stretch their paycheck and add to the comfort of their home, consumers can replace items with more energy-efficient options that help provide long-term savings and a short-term defense against rapidly rising energy prices,” said Kathy Krafka Harkema, energy efficiency expert, Pella Corporation.

What works
By updating their home, consumers can enjoy significant energy savings. To set the record straight on what’s truly effective and what’s not when it comes to energy efficiency, here are commonly-held myths and facts about windows and doors:

MYTH: Covering windows with an after-market window film is a great solution to reduce damaging sun rays.
FACT: Although after-market films may claim to reduce ultraviolet (UV) radiation when applied to glass on windows or doors, they may cause glass breakage. Pella Corporation will not warrant products where after-market films have been applied to a glass surface on Pella® windows or doors. A better solution is to choose the most energy-efficient factory-assembled window to meet your needs for new construction or replacement applications to help reduce the transmission of UV rays and keep the home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Choose products with Low-E glass or Pella SunDefense™ glass to help reduce interior furnishing fading caused by ultraviolet rays.

MYTH: Sealing windows shut is an effective way to conserve energy.
FACT: Sealing windows shut is not only ineffective, it can be unsafe! Windows used as potential emergency exits must be operable and functioning to provide ventilation and a possible escape route in a fire or other emergencies. The emergency escape is especially critical in the winter when more fires strike and the only quick route in or out may be through a window.

MYTH: Wood windows are the least energy-efficient.
FACT: Wood, by its insulating nature, is highly energy-efficient, especially when equipped with double or triple-pane Low-E insulating glass. Plus, wood is a renewable resource. In addition to wood, quality fiberglass and vinyl materials are also good sustainable choices for energy-efficient windows and doors.

MYTH: Windows with argon gas in between the panes of glass do not provide any extra benefits than windows without.
FACT: Argon gas is a better insulator than air itself, resulting in reduced heat transfer. This means that less heat is lost through the window during the winter and less heat is gained during the summer. Purchasing windows with low emissivity (Low-E) glass that is filled with argon is a cost-effective approach to saving energy and adding to the comfort inside your home.

MYTH: Putting towels or rugs around leaking entry or patio doors will solve the problem, keeping the cold air out.
FACT: While it might be a short-term solution, many homeowners deny the bigger issue — a door may not have been installed properly. Just like windows, it is critical that doors are installed properly for maximum performance. Check the weatherstripping around the door to make sure it seals. Evaluate the door’s threshold. Adjust or replace weatherstripping or threshold seals as necessary to reduce unwanted hot or cold air from entering the home. When replacing entry doors for best performance, safety, or to improve energy-efficiency, select entry door systems that are factory-built to quality standards, like Pella entry door systems, rather than doors assembled on-site from pieces or components.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications. In 2009, Pella earned the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award as Partner of the Year for the third consecutive year for its leadership in manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

As a family-owned and professionally managed privately-held company, Pella is known for its 84-year history of making innovative products, providing quality service and delivering on customer satisfaction. Headquartered in Pella, Iowa, the company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship to create satisfied customers.

Pella manufactures quality windows, patio doors and entry door systems sold through a Direct Sales Network operating Pella® Window & Door Showrooms across the United States and Canada and select building materials retailers, including Lowe’s®. For more information, call 888-847-3552 or visit pella.com. Follow Pella on Twitter.com @Pella_News.

*Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

**Visit this website for details:
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=about.ab_index

What is BIM?

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:56:00 -0500

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a software-based method of generating and managing data as part of the building process. Building information modeling typically covers geometry, spatial relationships, geographic information, quantities and properties of a building’s components, like manufacturers' details.

Pella Corporation now offers its own BIM for windows and doors for use by architects, designers, and others looking for precise, functional, accessible tools for the trade.

Entrepreneur magazine says BIM “represents a significant technology leap in the capturing of design information about a building or structure.” With BIM, commercial construction details are now captured more accurately in the long flow of communication. “The result is a marked reduction in the information loss that often occurs each time the project is passed to the next group in the very long chain of people involved in the design and construction process.”

How to download Pella models

Pella’s Autodesk® Revit® families are now available for use with the Revit Architecture computer software.

For ease of use, Revit users may access Pella products directly from the Revit design application by using the Autodesk Seek Web service and simply drag-and-drop the Pella models into their BIM project. Visit pellacommercial.com/BIM or download Pella’s 3D models from any of these Web sites: pellaadm.com, seek.autodesk.com, caddetails.com, or sketchup.google.com.

The company’s new BIM-ready models complement other three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) drawing and specification resources currently available from Pella including 3D models for Google SketchUp, 2D drawings in dwg and dxf formats, and three-part specifications in CSI and AIA PRODUCT MASTERSPEC™ formats.

Virtues of vinyl windows and doors

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:41:00 -0500

Vinyl windows are a popular, energy-efficient choice for today’s homeowners. Vinyl now accounts for 60 percent of all conventional residential windows sold in the U.S., according to research by the Vinyl Material Council (VMC) of the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA).

Due to their excellent energy efficiency, durability, low maintenance, and overall value, vinyl products are an attractive option for new homeowners, those looking to renovate their home or replace their windows. But with the growing faction of environmentally-conscious consumers the question is, how does vinyl affect the environment?

Here are a few of the virtues of vinyl from Pella® Windows & Doors:

According to the Vinyl Institute, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the scientific name for vinyl, saves energy and reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. It takes less energy to produce PVC than many polymer-based products and what most people don’t realize, its principal raw material is chlorine, which is derived from common salt.
Unlike oil-dependent polymer products, vinyl is less sensitive to oil price fluctuations because its key raw material, chlorine, is readily available and an inexpensive commodity.
Vinyl has the ability to be melted down and recycled many times over to create various building materials like window frames, non-pressure pipe, fencing, gutters and artificial Christmas trees. To find a vinyl recycler in your area, visit http://www.vinylinstitute.com/Recycling/VinylRecyclingDirectory.aspx
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) reports that 80 percent of post-industrial vinyl is being reclaimed and recycled.
The total direct and indirect benefits to consumers’ use of PVC products in the U.S. and Canada totaled more than $20 billion according to the Vinyl Institute.

Pella’s vinyl products save energy costs:

Homeowners who choose ENERGY STAR®-qualified Encompass by Pella™, ThermaStar by Pella® or Centera by Pella™ vinyl windows or patio doors can benefit from enhanced energy efficiency to help lower utility bills. In addition vinyl products from Pella can help cut down on landfill waste, due to the product’s long life cycle.
Pella’s vinyl products now offer a high performance Low-E glass option called SunDefense™. This highly energy-efficient glazing system is ideal for managing solar heat gain when blocking damaging Ultraviolet (UV) rays and reducing cooling costs is important.

Pella’s product blocks 95 percent of UV light as compared to 44 percent for clear, insulating glass. In addition, Pella’s SunDefense provides excellent insulating properties to reduce heating costs.
Pella’s vinyl products will qualify for the new replacement window energy tax credits for home installations in 2009 and 2010 included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), commonly known as the economic stimulus bill.
For more information on the stimulus bill visit: http://pressroom.pella.com/fast_facts/135/

Resources:

Canadians can earn tax credits for window, door replacement

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 01:52:00 -0500

To spur economic activity in home remodeling and manufacturing industries, the Canadian government approved the Home Renovation Tax Credit (HRTC) for eligible property owners. Canadian homeowners can take advantage of this tax credit for a variety of renovations, including energy-efficient window and door installation.

Homeowners can receive a 15 percent tax credit of up to $1,350 for renovations that exceed $1,000 ─ up to a maximum of $10,000.
Renovations must be completed between Jan. 27, 2009, and Jan. 31, 2010.
Multiple upgrades including kitchen and bath renovations, home additions, curb appeal projects like adding new sod, and deck or fence installation can qualify.
The Canadian government requires selected contractors to be registered with the Goods & Services Tax association. http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/bsnss/sm/gsthst-tpstvh/menu-eng.html

Savvy homeowners in Canada will couple the new HRTC with the ecoENERGY Retrofit Program to offset the costs of installing ENERGY STAR® windows or doors. This program encourages Canadian homeowners to reduce their energy usage by upgrading major home appliances or heating systems with ENERGY STAR-qualified products.

Canadian home and property owners may qualify for ecoENERGY grants of up to $5,000 and still claim renovations under the HRTC.
When properly selected and installed, windows and doors can add to the appeal and comfort of a home, and reduce home energy costs by as much as 7 to 12 percent, according to ENERGY STAR Canada.
Look for window and door products with low U-values, which measure the ability to resist the transfer of heat. The lower the U-value, the better, and Pella has some of the lowest in the industry.
Homeowners in Canada can visit http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/windows-doors/buying.cfm?attr=4 to learn how to select eligible ENERGY STAR-qualified windows and doors for their climate zone.

Resources:

Canada Revenue AgencyHome Renovation Tax Credit http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/gncy/bdgt/2009/fqhmrnvtn-eng.html

ecoENERGY Retrofit Program http://www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/retrofit-homes/retrofit-qualify-grant.cfm?attr=4#eligible

New qualifications for U.S. window, door tax credits

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 03:47:00 -0500

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) signed into law Feb. 17, 2009 includes tax credits for qualifying energy-saving home improvements. Immediately replacing the previous Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 tax credit for ENERGY STAR® windows and doors, the new stimulus bill significantly raises performance requirements for windows and doors qualifying for credits.

Eligible window and door products now have to be equal to or below a 0.30 U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.30 for all U.S. climate zones.

The U-Factor measures heat transmission through a window or door — a lower U-Factor equals better insulation.
SHGC measures how well a window or door blocks heat from sunlight. The lower the value the better the unit keeps out solar heat.

Between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2010, U.S. homeowners may claim a tax credit up to 30 percent of the cost of qualifying replacement windows and doors installed in their principal residence, not exceeding $1,500.
The tax credit applies to the price of qualifying windows and doors, but does not cover installation, on-site preparation, assembly or sales tax.

For a complete list of qualifying Pella products visit:
http://web.pella.com/SiteCollectionDocuments/2009_10FederalTaxCreditQP.pdf

Energy-efficient windows add to comfort, savings
Windows and doors can add to the appeal, comfort and potential value of a home or business — when properly selected and installed to help seal out air and moisture. To help save energy, look for these important features in new or replacement windows, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy:

Multiple layers of glazing — Double glazing insulates almost twice as well as single glazing. Adding a third layer of glazing results in further improvement.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings — The invention and commercial development of low-emissivity (low-E) coatings in the 1980s revolutionized window technology. Thin, transparent metallic coatings on the inside surfaces of insulated glass permit visible light to pass through, but they reflect some energy wavelengths. In the summer this keeps heat outside the home; in the winter it helps retain heat in the home. Low-E or coatings greatly reduce heat transfer through glass and also help minimize fading of furniture and carpets that can be caused by ultraviolet rays

Inert gas fill — By substituting a denser gas like Argon for the air in a sealed insulated glass window, heat loss can be reduced significantly. When a window is injected with Argon ― a natural, colorless, non-toxic gas ― and paired with Low-E glass, its insulating qualities increase energy performance. Most quality window manufacturers offer argon-gas fill as an option. Pella offers Low-E with argon-insulated glass for greatest energy efficiency.

Energy-efficient doors

As with windows, follow these basics for best-functioning doors:
Weatherstrip around the perimeter of a door to ensure a tight seal when closed.
Install quality door sweeps on the bottom of the doors if they aren't already in place.
Remove old or peeling caulk around door frames and replace the caulk.

Don’t overlook patio doors. Treat them just as you would windows when evaluating your home’s energy performance. Type of glass, coatings and panes of glass all contribute to a patio door’s optimal performance.

*Please be sure to consult your tax professional to determine if the windows you purchase are eligible for the U.S. tax credit.

Resources:
To view home improvement highlights of the new stimulus bill and key changes from the 2008 Emergency Economic Stabilization Act, visit the ENERGY STAR® Web site: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits#c1 or call 800-342-5363.

Green evolution of Pella� Windows & Doors grows since 1925

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 04:20:00 -0600

Pella’s focus on environmental stewardship began in 1925 — the year the company was founded. The company’s steadfast commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability lives on today. For example, the company has made numerous energy-saving improvements in its facilities, and wood, glass and screen cloth leftover from Pella manufacturing processes are recycled into materials like pet bedding, reflective coating for highways and even archery targets. And, as a dedicated environmental steward, Pella strives to purchase certified lumber from responsibly harvested forests.

Key highlights in Pella’s green journey follow.

Recent recognition:

2009 ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient products and educating consumers about them
2008 & 2007 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year – window category
2008 member, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Transport Partnership program
2007 Iowa Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award

Action:

1925 – Began recycling steel and aluminum in the company’s first year in business

1978 – Introduced Pella Van Pool Program. Today, more than 220 employees participate in van pools, achieving a 97.5% weekly vehicle fuel and maintenance savings per person.

1983 – Began recycling glass, sawdust, paper, cardboard and some plastics

1989 – Replaced fluorescent lamps in manufacturing areas with energy- saving lamp alternatives

Early 1990s – Began recycling numerous plastics

1993 – Implemented policy to purchase high-efficiency motors for new or replacement applications for machines in manufacturing areas

1995 – Established standard for use of occupancy sensors in low occupancy areas to help save energy

2000 – Began recycling electronics

2000 – Reinforced commitment to utilizing third-party certified wood

2005 – Initiated an annual community-wide electronics recycling (e-cycling) event in Pella, Iowa honoring Earth Day to safely recycle obsolete electronics like cellular phones, video cassette recorders, keyboards, printers, scanners, monitors, televisions, and computers. Since 2005, more than 2,963 households have responsibly recycled more than 9,431 electronic items with a combined weight of 274,912 pounds of electronic waste diverted from the local landfill. 2006 – Began recycling insulating glass

2007 – Formed internal Energy Team to address energy conservation opportunities

2007 – Implemented 700,000 square feet of lighting improvements in manufacturing facilities and reduced energy consumption by 1,900,000 kilowatt hours per year ─ enough to power 160 average homes for an entire year.

2008 – Launched an annual community-wide electronics recycling (e-cycling) event in Shenandoah, Iowa honoring Earth Day. In its debut, more than 345 households responsibly recycled more 880 electronic items with a combined weight of 29,071 pounds of electronic waste diverted from the local landfill.

2009 – April 25- first annual community-wide electronics recycling (e-cycling) event in Sioux Center, Iowa, honoring Earth Day.

Related industry affiliations:

Pella is a member of the Efficient Windows Collaborative and a founding member of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), a non-profit organization providing accurate information to measure and compare energy performance of windows, doors and skylights
American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA)
The American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance (IGMA)
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
National Association of Remodelers (NARI)
Temperate Forest Foundation
U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
Voluntary ENERGY STAR partner
Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA)

Important fire safety tips

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 -0500

If your home is on fire:
• Check the doorknob and spaces around the door with the back of your hand. If the door is warm, try another escape route. If it’s cool, open it slowly, closing it quickly if smoke pours through.
• Always choose the safest escape route — the one with the least smoke and heat.
• If you must escape through smoke, crawl low on your hands and knees (NOT your stomach), keeping your head one to two feet above the floor, where the air holds less smoke and fumes.
• Close doors behind you as you escape to slow the spread of fire and smoke.
• If your primary and secondary escape routes are blocked by fire, seal yourself in safety: close all doors between you and the fire, and if possible, seal door cracks and cover air vents with duct tape, pillows, blankets or towels. Soaking towels with water provides an even stronger barrier against smoke and fumes.

If you live in an apartment or high-rise building:
• Learn and practice your building’s evacuation plan, which should be posted on every floor of your building.
• Report any locked or blocked windows or doors or security bars that don’t release quickly to your building’s management.
• Leave immediately if you hear a smoke alarm.
• Know the location of all building exits and fire alarms.
• Do not go back inside once you’ve escaped a fire.
• Use the stairs — never use elevators during a fire.
• Follow instructions announced over your building’s public address system, if applicable.
• Keep a portable phone with you during a fire emergency.
• React immediately if you are trapped. Seal vents and cracks around doors with wet cloths. Call the fire department, tell them where you are and signal from a window with a flashlight or light-colored cloth.
• Be patient; evacuating large buildings can take time.
• Do not assume you can or will be rescued from the roof.

For more fire safety information, visit www.Pella.com.

Information courtesy of the U.S. Fire Administration, the American Red Cross, the Home Safety Council and the National Fire Protection Association.

Be prepared if a fire strikes

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 05:04:00 -0500

Many of us practice fire drills in the workplace, yet the risk of fire can be greatest in the home. Take a few minutes now to help protect your loved ones, by planning and practicing a home fire escape drill. Pella Corporation's Close the door on fire!® campaign provides these tips to help you get started:

1. Have a plan! Draw a floor plan of each level of your home. Download a grid from http://web.pella.com/aboutus/firesafety/Pages/overview.aspx. Pick a meeting place a safe distance outside your home for everyone to gather in the event of a fire.
2. Identify two exits! Designate two exits from every room in your home — a door and a window. Make sure doors and windows operate properly to ensure a quick exit; if not, consider replacing them for safety’s sake.
3. Use smoke alarms! Install smoke alarms in or near every bedroom and on every level of your home. Test alarms monthly, change batteries regularly, and replace alarms every 10 years for greater safety.
4. Make a quick exit! Keep rooms neat and furniture and clutter away from windows and doors so you can get out quickly if necessary and to prevent falls.
5. Test the alarm! Sound the smoke alarms when family members are awake so everyone knows what they sound like.
6. Know the number! Make sure everyone in your household knows how to call the fire department in an emergency.
7. Give yourself an out! In the event of fire, choose the closest and safest exit route to get out quickly and stay out. Avoid going through smoke or flames if possible.
8. Stay low and go! To escape from a burning home, crawl out quickly on your hands and knees to help avoid smoke and fumes near the floor.
9. Once you’re out, stay out! NEVER go back into a burning building. Stay safe. Go to your safe meeting place outside your home and call for help.
10. Practice! Practice your home fire escape plan with everyone in your home at least twice a year.

You made it! For more tips about fire safety, visit www.Pella.com.

Impact-resistant windows, doors help protect you in a storm

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 01:55:00 -0500

With Mother Nature taking more frequent disastrous turns, it’s time for home and business owners to re-evaluate how their region’s extreme weather may affect their lives and property.

Hurricane season spans from early June through the end of November in the United States. That’s a long time to sit tight and hope a storm doesn’t destroy your belongings. If you live in a hurricane-prone zone, take these steps to protect your loved ones and your home or business against violent winds and water.

First things first
Research current building code requirements for high-wind regions. Make sure your home or business buildings meet your local code specifications, especially if you are considering renovations or new construction. Also check to see if flood damage is covered by your homeowner’s or commercial property insurance, and plan accordingly.

According to the National Hurricane Center Web site, to help weather the storm, it is important to strengthen the exterior of your home or business, making it harder for wind and debris to tear through small openings. Doors and windows are the number one entrances and exits to your home, making them potentially vulnerable points for a storm to enter.

Impact-resistant windows, doors provide secure options
Taping your windows shut will not stop the storm from entering your home or business. Shutters and plywood are only temporary options and waste precious time to put in place as a hurricane approaches. Your best bet for withstanding hurricanes and providing year-round, round-the-clock protection is installing impact-resistant windows and doors. These products look similar to traditional windows and patio doors, yet they offer substantially more protection from the elements, thanks to their innovative design and rugged materials. Think about retrofitting your structure with impact-resistant windows and patio doors like Pella® Architect Series® HurricaneShield® options to enhance your home and business.

Other important steps
Consider these extra safety measures to help weather the storm.

Familiarize yourself with your community’s disaster preparedness plans.

Create a family plan detailing escape routes from your home in case of emergency. Establish a safe meeting place in case your family becomes separated. Also, set up a phone tree to communicate with friends and relatives.

Assemble a disaster supply kit and put it in an easily accessible location. Include things like drinking water, non-perishable food, a portable National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio, basic tools, a flashlight, batteries, clothing, prescription medications, household keys, important documents, credit cards and cash.

Before a hurricane strikes, remove anything from the exterior of your home or business that isn’t rooted to the ground. This includes garbage cans, bicycles and lawn ornaments which can cause personal injury or property damage as they are catapulted through the air in a storm.

For more information on how to protect yourself during a hurricane, visit these Web sites:
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/intro.shtml
http://www.weather.com/activities/homeandgarden/home/hometips/severeweather/hurricane_windprotect.html

In a fog about window fogging?

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 01:57:00 -0500

What causes windows to fog?
Many factors may contribute to a foggy window. For starters, it’s essential to first understand where the fog is occurring: on the outside or exterior of the window, on the inside or roomside surfaces, or in between the panes of glass.

Exterior condensation on windows occurs when the temperature inside the home falls well below that outside, like on a hot humid day. When dramatic differences in interior and exterior temperatures and humidity levels occur, moisture condensation can build up on the coldest surface—the glass. It’s the same phenomenon that causes a cold glass of your favorite beverage to sweat on a sizzling summer day.

Likewise, when interior humidity is high, as temperatures drop outdoors, condensation can occur on interior glass surfaces. To protect your investment in your home and home furnishings, reduce interior moisture to help alleviate interior glass condensation.

See Pella’s Understanding Condensation fact sheet at:

http://pressroom.pella.com/fast_facts/87/

Moisture and condensation between panes of insulating glass can occur when the seal between the panes of glass fails. This typically occurs in older windows or doors where the seal has failed and allows moisture to leak in. It’s not uncommon to walk into older homes and see windows on the sunny side of the home with a glass seal failure that allows condensation and fogging between the panes. This same fogging can occur on any side of the home, but tends to be more prevalent on the sunny sides because the additional heat from the sun tends to accelerate the seal failure. Also, with the sun shining through the glass, the fogging can be more visible and readily apparent.

Here’s what’s happening:
A technical explanation of moisture between the panes of glass is well put by Pella engineer, Joe Hayden, who is also the chairman of the board of directors of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC):

“Today’s insulating glass windows are sealed with improved materials and technology, and also contain inert gasses like argon between the panes. Further, an extremely thin silver oxide coating is applied to the inside face of the outside pane. This low emissivity, or “low-E”, coating acts as a reflector for - generating infrared rays from the sun. Using low-E glass is generally considered the minimum necessary for comfort and energy savings during heating and cooling seasons.

Eventually, fogging will develop between the panes of any insulating glass product. Given enough time, the seals between the panes will break down and allow moisture to enter. The desiccant material will attract and hold as much moisture as it is capable of, but will eventually become saturated. When that happens, fogging will occur. Exactly how long this will take is dependent on the actual environmental conditions, the sealing and desiccant materials used, the design of the insulating glass, the overall design of the window, and a host of other factors too numerous to mention here. But simply stated, nothing lasts forever.”

A clear choice
“Choosing and investing in a glass system that meets your needs is an important decision in buying new or replacing old windows,” said Pella glass expert Dave Modtland. “Quality windows and doors that include insulating glass can lower energy bills, reduce fading damage to interior fabrics and provide a more comfortable home.”

Solutions
Choose window and door manufacturers that test products for moisture infiltration
In state-of-the-art product-testing facilities, Pella tests the components of its windows and patio doors under the harshest conditions—the burning rays of the sun, salt air, acid rain, excessive humidity, extreme heat and cold, high wind and driving rain. And Pella tests for air and water infiltration during the manufacturing process. These stringent measures help ensure that Pella windows and patio doors will perform for years.

Look for verification

Check for third-party validation that the window meets the high standards of outside sources like the recognized gold standard ENERGY STAR® label or certification from the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) which sponsors a Hallmark Certification Program. Considered a mark of excellence, WDMA Hallmark indicates that the manufacturer participates in periodic in-plant inspections by a third party administrator. The inspections include auditing manufacturer quality control processes, and a review to check that products are manufactured in accordance with the appropriate WDMA and other performance standards.

Choose the right glass for your region/climate

The better your window glass insulates, the more comfortable your interior room will feel. Climate affects which glass you should choose for a window or door, and exposure to the sun, noise, window placement, altitude and size should also be considered.

Consider all the glass options

Pella offers a variety of glass innovations. Four popular choices include:

Insulating glass with argon or other inert gas between the panes, and a low emissivity (low-E) coating as described above.

Insulating glass with Integral Light Technology® grilles which create the look of true divided light while providing superior energy efficiency.

Double-pane glass with between-glass blinds and removable grilles

Triple-pane glass with between glass cellular shades, blinds, decorative panels and removable grilles.

Seal the deal

Check the manufacturer’s warranty to thoroughly understand what it does and does not cover. Most Pella product warranties provide at least 20 years of coverage on glass.

For more information, visit: www.pella.com or call 888-847-3552.

Proper window and door installation

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 08:58:00 -0500

Proper installation is critically important with windows and doors. Poorly installed windows and doors won’t perform effectively, or last as long as they should, no matter how well they’re built.

Think of a house as a big, solid box. Every time you cut a hole in that box for things like vents, exhaust fans, pipes, wires, doors and windows, you’re either letting something out or inviting something in – like wind, rain and snow.

Installation specifics:
• When it comes to windows and doors, one major key to installation is keeping the unit level, plumb and square. This means that the window or door must be uniform horizontally, vertically and diagonally within the opening.

• Shims are crucial to the performance of the window or door installation. Shimming under the sill of a window keeps it up off the rough opening, allowing incidental water to drain to the exterior. Shimming around a window or door helps hold it uniform in the opening, plumb, level, and square. Wood/Plastic Composite shims work very well, they are easier to use and will not absorb water, unlike some wood shims.

• The installer fastens the window or door to the home’s framing. There are many different options to fasten the unit to the home. Nails through the fin, screws through the frame, or installation clips are just a few of the more common fastening techniques. Which is used will vary based on building and window type, or per local code requirements.

• Helping to prevent water and air infiltration around windows and doors is a vital step. Pella’s SmartFlash® aluminum backed butyl flashing tape, combined with properly installed house wrap, helps prepare the rough opening and creates a long-lasting water management system for the installation package of the window or door.

• Once the window or door is fastened and flashed, the installer will insulate the interior between the window or door and the rough opening with a bead of low-expansion polyurethane foam sealant. Foam sealants such as, Dow® GREAT STUFF PRO™ Window and Door Insulating Foam Sealant, will help create an interior air and water seal to lower the risk of water and air infiltration. Low-expansion polyurethane foam provides superior moisture protection versus fiberglass insulation in window or door cavities, and helps prevent bowing or warping of windows or doors.

Installation instructions, classes
Understanding installation’s critical role in product performance and customer satisfaction, Pella developed a simpler, more effective way to install its windows and doors and make homes and commercial buildings weather-tight. To encourage builders, installers and do-it-yourselfers to use this proven technique, Pella offers installation classes through its network of Pella® Window & Door Showrooms in the United States and Canada. To connect with your nearest local representatives, consult the “where to buy” tab on www.Pella.com.

Pella windows and doors feature comprehensive installation instructions to make it easy for you to install Pella products yourself, or for those who do it for you. In addition, most of Pella’s installation instructions are available in English and American Spanish language. Pella’s Window & Door Showrooms also work with a nationwide network of Pella Certified Contractors® professionally trained to handle your installation needs.

Pella will measure, order and provide complete installation instructions designed specifically for your Pella windows and doors. And, if you choose, Pella replacement experts can even complete the entire replacement process for you. For more information on what to expect during the window replacement process, visit www.pellareplacement.com.

Awards and honors earned by Pella

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:13:00 -0600

Pella Corporation and its team members proudly create better views for homes and businesses through daily customer satisfaction. Our team members produce innovative, energy-efficient quality window and door products and provide outstanding service for customers. We’re proud of these honors and awards earned by our top-notch team members and their efforts:

Commitment to environmental stewardship
Pella Corporation has been awarded the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody (CoC) Certification, by Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) – accredited by the FSC to certify companies to its international standards – further demonstrating the company’s commitment to using resources responsibly. The FSC awards CoC certification to companies that meet FSC standards for tracking wood used in their products from the certified forest to the consumer.

“Global Top Company for Leaders”
Pella has been honored as the 2007 “Global Top Company for Leaders” in the small-to mid-sized category by Hewitt Associates, RBL Group and FORTUNE magazine, based on the exceptional training and development opportunities Pella provides.

Longtime leader in ENERGY STAR®, environmental stewardship
Pella earned the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award in the windows category in 2007 & 2008 for its environmental leadership. In 2009, Pella was again recognized by the DOE by earning a Sustained Excellence award. Pella earned this recognition for its leadership in manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

Pella’s commitment to environmental stewardship is firmly rooted in the company’s culture and has been since it was founded in 1925. A member of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), Pella encourages the use of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)® certification process and offers products that can contribute to certification of buildings.

Customer satisfaction
Pella is dedicated to satisfying customers. In 2009, Pella earned the prestigious J.D. Power and Associates award for “Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Window and Patio Door Manufacturers" for the third year in a row.

Architect
Building industry professionals honored Pella as first in the wood and plastic windows, doors and frames category of Architect magazine’s 2007 Architect’s Choice for Excellence (ACE) award. Architect also named Pella a 2006 ACE first place winner in the wood window category.

Architectural Record
Architectural Record magazine recognized Pella Impervia® double-hung windows as one of the best new products in 2007.

Building Operating Management
Editors of Building Operating Management chose Pella Impervia® as a Top Product Award winner for 2009.

Buildings
The editors of Buildings magazine recognized Encompass® by Pella as one of the "Top 100 Products" in 2008.

Consumer Reports
In 2007, Pella ProLine® wood windows and Pella Impervia® fiberglass composite windows earned Consumer Reports’ “Best Buy” and “Quick Pick” honors. Pella Designer Series® wood windows earned an “Excellent” rating for wind and rain resistance. In the vinyl category, ThermaStar by Pella® earned an “Excellent” rating for durability.

Consumers Digest
Also in 2007, this magazine rated Pella’s vinyl and wood replacement windows as “Best Buys.” ThermaStar by Pella 20 Series replacement double-hung window and the Architect Series® Precision Fit® double-hung window both earned the coveted “Best Buy” distinction.

GREEN LOG Home & Lifestyle Award
Pella received an honorable mention in the 2008 awards for promoting positive change in the green alternatives for building new homes.

Peninsula Publishing
Peninsula Publishing produces Builder and Developer, Options for Today’s Fine Homes, 50+BUILDER, Residential Contractor and Green Home Builder. Readers of these five homebuilding industry magazines chose Pella as their favorite wood window in their annual building products brand survey in 2007.

Professional Builder
Pella Architect Series® wood windows and patio doors earned recognition in 2007 as they were honored in the “100 Best New Products” by Professional Builder magazine.

2008 GREAT Award
The Department of Environmental Services, in Gresham, Ore., certified Pella Corporation an official GREAT business.

The Gresham Resource Efficiency Assistance to Businesses (GREAT) program is coordinated by the Recycling and Solid Waste Division and offers assistance to local businesses to help them meet resource efficiency criteria in the areas of waste reduction and recycling, storm water and wastewater pollution prevention, energy efficiency and water conservation.

State of Iowa
Iowa’s Governor Chet Culver and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources honored Pella Corporation for its leadership in waste management by recycling. Instead of burning scrap wood and sending it to a landfill, wood scrap from windows and doors is collected and sent to Pella’s recycling vendor who produces wood flour, landscape mulch and livestock bedding.

Commitment to Juvenile Diabetes
Pella Corporation team members in partnership with their friends, families and communities have raised more than $1.4 million for Type 1 diabetes research through the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Again in 2008, the company was honored with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) World Achievement Award by the Greater Iowa JDRF Chapter, in recognition of the company’s leadership in helping others.

National Safety Council
The National Safety Council has recognized Pella Corporation numerous times for its commitment to and track record in workplace safety.

Storm Doors 101

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 02:28:00 -0600

Storm doors
A storm door brings air and light into the home, while helping to keep the weather out. The Pella entry door system is designed to be compatible with the installation of a Pella storm door.
Ventilation options

The patented Pella® Rolscreen® retractable insect screen helps keep insects out when needed and rolls out of sight when it isn’t; glass panels glide up, down or stay in position with single-hand operation
Flexible design features interchangeable full glass panels that can be switched for a full screen with locking strips that hold the glass or screen in place
Self-storing style in which the glass panels and screen stay in the door together year-round

Style options
Pella Rolscreen® Collection — Retractable screen provides ventilation when needed. Exclusive operating system lets you adjust the screen to any position allowing the screen to be raised and lowered with one hand.

Interchangeable storm doors — Feature a full glass panel that can be switched out for a full screen — excellent for seasonal ventilation changes. Also called a “fullview” style, these doors provide maximum light and showcase an entry door.

Self-storing storm doors — Screen and glass both stay in the door year round. Glass panel is raised for airflow for instant ventilation changes. Pella self-storing storm doors are available in fullview styles for maximum views, midview styles with more frame area for added durability, and highview styles that offer the most privacy and are great for high-traffic entryways.

Glass styles
Select Expressions® Glass Collection — Design a door that fits your style with these handcrafted works of art. Choose from more than 50 interchangeable glass panels that fit all Pella fullview storm doors for a new look or for a special occasion.

Standard frame features

Interchangeable glass is fully tempered for safety
Keyed deadbolt for added security on most models
Two color-matched door closers for smooth opening and closing
Concealed exterior installation screws for clean look
Heavy-duty hinges for trouble-free operation
Lifetime Storm Door Protection Plan

Construction styles

Extruded construction doors feature contemporary frames with reinforced corners to keep the door square and the frame tight
Solid core doors feature an aluminum skin permanently bonded to the core, a low-maintenance surface with a heavier feel suitable for high-traffic entryways

Installation features
Pella’s Express Install™

Pella interchangeable fullviews feature Express Install™, an exclusive installation method that cuts installation time in half. Preassembled parts and factory drilled holes make it easy, and the installation requires no cutting. A typical homeowner installation can be done in as little as 60 minutes. Here’s how:

Simplified storm door installation gives customers the pre-assembled parts.
No cutting is required and pre-drilled installation and assembly holes eliminate guesswork.
Only five tools are needed to complete the storm door installation. With the Express Install door the only tools required are:
Tape measure
Pencil
Power drill with 3/32” drill bit
Phillips Screwdriver #2
Scissors
Storm doors with Express Install also feature a keyed multipoint lock which secures the door in two places.

Hardware options
Choose from a wide variety of hardware options to match entry door hardware. From Bright Brass to Satin Nickel to Oil-Rubbed Bronze, Pella has a stylish collection to match the look of most homes

Entry systems 101: The detail is in the doors

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 02:23:00 -0600

As an industry leader, Pella proudly produces quality windows and doors to meet customer needs,. For a deeper look at the dynamics of doors, here’s a quick download of the features found at Pella.

Features of wood entry doors

Entry doors hail from four collections: Traditional, Craftsman, Classic and Old World European
Available in Rustic Walnut, Mahogany, Demesne Cherry and American White Oak
A variety of decorative glass options available to provide a distinctive look
True divided light with beveled glass options provide a classic look
Pella wood entry doors are prehung for maximum ease in installation
Available with choice of sill finishes, including Aluminum Mill, Anodized Brass and Anodized Bronze finishes, to match varied décor and finish preferences in today’s homes and businesses
Standard ball bearing door hinge options include black, bright brass, oil-rubbed bronze and satin chrome finishes, to match varied finish preferences in today’s home and commercial settings
Feature adjustable thresholds, foam compression weather-stripping, bottom sweep, and ball-bearing hinges
Available with single or double-bore hardware prep, or with a factory-installed multi-point lock for added security and performance
Where available, Pella strives to use wood from certified suppliers, supporting responsible forestry management practices
For best results and maximum life, wood requires regular maintenance to maintain its natural beauty

Features of fiberglass and premium steel doors

Factory-assembled and pre-hung for quality assurance and easy installation
Pella entry doors with an aluminum-clad frame come standard with the exclusive Pella AdvantagePlus™ Protection System* that combines three key components:

Pella entry doors are protected by an aluminum-clad exterior frame that is virtually maintenance free. It doesn’t need painting and it won’t flake, crack or peel. o The AdvantagePlus system features a tough snap-in aluminum exterior brick mould trim that extends the maintenance-free benefits to the area around the door.
AdvantagePlus features a patented rot-resistant design.

For added convenience, opt for factory prefinishing
For added style, choose from a variety of glass options including Pella’s exclusive decorative glass collections and Low-E with argon-insulating glass**
EnduraClad® aluminum clad exterior frame available in 10 colors: White, Brown, Tan, Hartford Green, Poplar White, Putty, Brick Red, Black, Morning Sky Gray and Hemlock; primed wood frame also available
Aluminum-clad exterior one-piece fin/frame design allows for easy installation and reliable performance
Fiberglass entry doors are able to withstand dents and dings
Hinges and hardware available in a variety of finishes, including standard brass-tone zinc dichromate, polished brass, antique brass, antique nickel, polished chrome satin nickel and stainless steel (outswing doors only) to match varied finish preferences in today’s home and commercial settings
Complete offering includes matching sidelights and transoms
Flexible compression foam weather-stripping system helps prevent air and water infiltration
Energy-efficient core in the door panel provides outstanding comfort and stability
Threshold has adjustment capabilities to counteract house settling and help ensure consistent performance and operation throughout the life of the door
Transoms and other Pella products can be easily attached with mullion kits
Glazing frames are composed of an engineered material for lasting good looks and durability
Wood-grain detail with self-aligning screw covers
Six in-swing wall depths, one out-swing wall depth and one low-profile wall depth available

Decorative glass options

Each decorative glass collection features a unique combination of glass style, texture and caming (the decorative metal used to assemble glass pieces into a design)
Variety of decorative glass options to let the sun shine through and to add architectural elegance to any home style
Exclusive decorative glass designs are sandwiched inside a sealed insulating glass unit to deliver elegance, and energy efficiency
Textured glass permits light to pass through, yet also allows privacy
In clear glass, Pella offers a wide selection of entry doors, sidelights and transoms made with standard insulating glass or Low-E with argon-insulating glass**

For a classic style, choose from a variety of permanent or removable grille options and standard grille patterns for the traditional look of divided light. Custom patterns are also available.

Caming
From light to dark — from black to copper to satin nickel options — Pella offers a variety of caming materials to add decorative detail to doors.

* AdvantagePlus protection system is optional.
**High-altitude Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon gas

About Pella Corporation

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:56:00 -0600

Innovative products from an industry leader
Pella Corporation is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications. As a family-owned and professionally managed privately-held company, Pella is known for its 84-year history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service and delivering on customer satisfaction. Headquartered in Pella, Iowa, the company provides careers for about 8,600 team members and is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Raising standards, expanding views
Pella Corporation was founded in 1925 as the Rolscreen Company. Initially, the company was most widely known for its “disappearing” Rolscreen® window screen. Updated in its design and still popular today, the patented Rolscreen insect screen rolls out of sight when not in use. Pella patio doors and storm doors also feature Rolscreen technology.

In 1992, the company changed its name to Pella Corporation, to better reflect its entire product offering. Today the Pella® family of brands offers a full range of quality residential and commercial products in a variety of types and styles to meet virtually any design or budget.

More information about career opportunities with Pella is available online at www.Pella.com/careers.

Longtime leader in ENERGY STAR®, environmental stewardship
Pella earned the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award in the windows category the past two consecutive years and now proudly continues its environmental leadership as a Sustained Excellence award winner in 2009. Pella earned recognition for its leadership in manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

Industry leader in customer satisfaction
Pella’s strong commitment to satisfying customers resulted in J.D. Power and Associates naming the company “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Window and Door Manufacturers Two Years in a Row.”1

Extensive sales and service network serves customers
Early in its history, Pella built a dedicated national sales and service organization for its products, which now serves customers throughout North America and in other select countries.

The Pella direct sales network operates Pella Window & Door Showrooms, designed to help customers make the most informed window and door decisions, and, if needed, to provide professional support after the sale.

In 1992, Pella entered the national retail market with windows and patio doors, adding select lumberyard distribution in 1994. Today, select Pella products are sold in top U.S. and Canadian building-material retail stores.

In 2001, Pella and Lowe’s® introduced the Pella® Design Centersm (PDC) to assist consumers with their window and door needs. Located exclusively at Lowe’s, the Pella Design Center is a “store-within-a-store,” featuring informative world-class merchandising displays, staffed by Lowe’s associates trained to take the complexity out of window and door purchases.

Window and door production at its best
Pella manufactures wood windows and patio doors in Pella, Carroll, Shenandoah, and Sioux Center, Iowa, and Macomb, Ill. Fiberglass and vinyl products are manufactured in Murray, Ky. Vinyl windows and patio doors are also manufactured in Gettysburg, Pa.; West Columbia, S.C.; and Portland, Ore. Entry door systems are produced in Fairfield, Ohio and Wylie, Texas. EFCO, a Pella Company, creates commercial products in Monett, Mo.

1 Pella received the highest numerical score among window and door manufacturers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2007-2008 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction StudiesSM. 2008 study based on responses from 2,433 consumers measuring 7 brands and measures opinions of consumers who purchased new windows or patio doors in the previous 12 months. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in March-April 2008. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

All you need to know about doors

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 03:52:00 -0600

A home’s doors provide a distinctive opportunity to add a personal touch, enhance curb appeal and make a statement to all who enter. But where do you start when it comes to choosing the right doors for you? Sorting through the infinite options can seem overwhelming and time consuming. This piece helps sort through the terminology, styles and alternatives available in doors.

Glossary of terms

Active panel — With a double door, this is the door panel that routinely opens.
AdvantagePlus™ — Pella’s exclusive system that delivers a durable, low-maintenance frame and brick mould solution.
Beveled — Clear glass, with edges that have been ground and polished to an angle. Bevels act as prisms in the sunlight creating sparkle and highlighting the glass design.
Brick Mould — A trim applied to the exterior edge of the frame and fascia concealing the shim space.
Caming — Decorative metal strips placed between glass pieces to create a design.
Casing — Molding that trims edges of doors and affixes to surrounding walls.
Cladding — Aluminum that covers the exterior of the door frame to protect it from the elements.
Clavos — Decorative nail heads added to doors to give style and character.
Dentil Shelf — Decorative shelf added to doors for a distinctive look.
Frame — Parts to which the door panel is attached with hinges. Also referred to as jambs. For example, vertical frame pieces are called "side jambs," the top horizontal piece is the "head jamb" and the bottom horizontal piece is the "threshold."
Glazing — A term used to describe the glass, used in a door panel. An energy-saving glazing option is low-emmisivity (Low-E) with argon-insulating glass which reduces fading caused by the sun. Low-E glazing helps keep the home warm in the winter and cool in the summer by reflecting selected ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Grille — Feature that divides the panes of glass. A wide variety of materials and styles are available. Can be attached directly to the glass, installed between the panes of glass or be removable.
Hinging — The direction from which the door swings on its hinges. Determined from the exterior view of a home.
Inactive panel — With a double door, this is the door panel that usually remains closed, but can be opened by disengaging special hardware on the door.
In-swing — A door that opens into the structure.
Jamb — A vertical frame part of a door system.
Left-hinging — A door’s hinges that are located on the left side of the door from the exterior view of a home.
Light — A pane of glass in a door. Available as clear or numerous decorative styles.
Moulding — A relatively narrow strip of wood used to conceal a joint or to emphasize the ornamentation of a structure.
Multi-point lock — A locking system that latches and locks into the door frame at three points: top, middle and bottom
Out-swing — A door that opens to the outside of the structure.
Passive panel — With a double door, the door that usually remains closed and fixed by bolts at top and bottom.
Pre-assembled or pre-hung unit — All components of the entry, including doors and sidelites, are precisely sized and assembled at the factory to allow for maximum ease of installation.
Right-hinging — Door’s hinges are located on the right side of the door from the exterior view of a home.
Rough opening — An unfinished opening where a window or door will be installed. For example, rough openings are lined by wood pieces; the top is the "header" and the sides are the "trimmers."
Shims — Wedge shaped material used between the frame and rough opening to adjust and stabilize a door or window system.
Sidelight — A panel containing glass that flanks or adjoins a door. Available on one or both sides of a door.
Stop —Trim which prevents a door from moving inside the jamb. It is applied to one side of an interior door frame and the interior side of a transom and sidelight jambs.
Tempered glass — Glass that has been heat-treated to withstand higher than normal forces on its surface. When it breaks, it shatters into small pieces for greater safety. Typically used in doors and other applications as required by building codes.
Threshold — Another term for sill. The horizontal part of a door assembly, fixed under the door panel and bearing on the floor.
Transom — A pane of glass in a frame installed above a door.
Weatherstrip — A strip of material that covers the contact point between the door and the door jamb. It is designed to help prevent water and air leakage.

Tips for tackling remodeling projects

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 03:50:00 -0500

Feel confident you are doing the right thing — remodeling makes sense (and cents)

Adds curb appeal and potential value
Can increase a home’s energy efficiency and help reduce energy costs
Improves a home’s comfort, style and beauty
Reduces maintenance time and expense

First, enlist help

Consider retaining an architect or a designer to help make your vision a reality.
Ask for referrals for a reputable contractor.
Check credentials for the professionals you are considering retaining by contacting references and the Better Business Bureau. Why?

Home improvement fraud consistently ranks as one of the top three complaints from consumers (1).
Up to 95 percent of home improvement contractors can go out of business or change their name due to consumer complaints or mismanagement within three years (2).

Prospective contractors and other professionals should be licensed, bonded and insured; request to review documentation for your records.

Open communication is key

Consider setting aside a time each week to review the project’s developments and agree upon any major changes with your spouse or partner.
Define and agree upon a communications plan with your contractor.

Determine your primary point of contact.
Decide how best to communicate with each another throughout the project.

Early in the process, communicate critical details like timing, draws, the project team’s access to the home, cleanup expectations, and disposal of materials or appliances being removed during the process.

Don’t break the bank

Have a clear understanding of your budget and how much you can afford before starting a remodeling project.
Solicit bids, making sure they are sufficiently detailed so you understand what is included and what is not.
Once bids are received, plan on a buffer of 15-20 percent to accommodate price fluctuations and to enable you to splurge on selected items if you wish.
Avoid making changes once the project is underway.
Save where you can:

Buying materials yourself directly if you can purchase them locally or online for less.
Consider selecting alternative products that may be less costly, or display, return or discontinued models.
Stick with standard offerings and sizes if available.
Don’t sacrifice quality; it may ultimately cost you more.

Protect your valued possessions

Remove delicate belongings or personal items from areas where work crews will have access.
Protect fine furnishings and sensitive electronics from dust; cover with plastic or place in storage.
Ensure the safety of your most valued possessions – children, as well as pets – by never allowing them to be left unsupervised in areas where remodeling projects are underway.

Keep the rest of your life on track

Set up temporary arrangements within your home or make plans to stay elsewhere if bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms or laundry facilities are disrupted.
Provide accommodations for work crews like a portable restroom and garbage receptacles.
Talk to your contractor about how to keep the mess to a minimum during remodeling.

Close the loop

Conduct a final walkthrough with the contractor to evaluate that all work has been completed to your satisfaction.
Secure warranties for any new products or appliances installed
Contact the contractor with necessary follow-up repairs that surface in the months following the project’s completion.

Enjoy!

For more information on windows and doors, visit www.Pella.com or call 888-847-3552.

For more tips on preparing for a remodeling project, visit the National Association of The Remodeling Industry web site at www.nari.org.

Pella� Architect Series� double-hung windows have modern performance, old world charm

Sun, 07 Oct 2007 12:00:00 -0500

Pella® Architect Series® double-hung wood windows combine the best of a traditional, old-world appearance with modern performance and quality and are available in two lines for distinctive detailing and virtually unlimited design possibilities.

Luxury Edition (LX) and Style Edition (SE)

Two distinct packages of double-hung wood windows with:

Superior attention to proportional detailing: unique hardware design with an S-shaped (ogee) profile that matches the curve appeal of the sash, grilles and hardware
Available in full frame or Precision Fit® fully-assembled pocket replacement frame for easy installation in either new construction, remodeling or replacement applications
Hidden tilt latches hardware available with standard surface-mounted lock or optional old-world spoon-shaped lock in five optional colors: White, Champagne, Bright Brass, Satin Nickel, or Oil-Rubbed Bronze finishes

Architect Series Luxury Edition (LX)

Industry-leading DP50 (design pressure) performance in most sizes for withstanding weather elements
Choice of primed wood or aluminum EnduraClad® exteriors
Three unique shapes (rectangle, arch head or springline) to add even more design interest
Removable wood jamb liner for easy painting and staining and more traditional look
Steady-Tilt™ feature allows for easy cleaning of lower sash; lower window tilts in and stops like an oven door for greater ease and safety
Custom glazing solutions available, including clear or tinted glazing, or Pella’s high-performance, energy-efficient Low-E glazing that protects against harmful UV rays
Variety of grille sizes and patterns featuring Pella’s patented Integral Light Technology (ILT), including removable with custom, standard or special patterns, for the historic look of true divided light with all the energy efficiency of a modern engineering
Available with full or half insect screens or Vivid View® screens, which allow for the ultimate in beautiful, unobstructed views complementing the old-world charm of a double-hung window

Architect Series Style Edition (SE)

The authentic beauty of Architect Series
DP40 performance to withstand the weather elements
Aluminum EnduraClad exterior
Standard glazing system; other options include standard insulating glass,tinted gray, green or bronze or Obscure
Variety of grille sizes and patterns featuring Pella’s patented Integral Light Technology (ILT), including removable with standard or special patterns, for the historic look of true divided light with all the energy efficiency of a modern engineering
Vinyl fixed jamb liner

Great views and colors to match

Optional Rolscreen retractable insect screen available on selected patio doors and windows rolls out of sight when not in use
Optional full or half Vivid View screens available on selected window styles that are 50 percent more transparent and allow 67 percent more ventilation than traditional flat screens
Choose from Low-E insulating glass with argon*; standard clear insulating glass; Gray, Bronze or Green tinted insulating glass; or obscure glass on any Architect Series window or door
Both series come with standard Tan, White or Brown exterior aluminum cladding colors or choose from Poplar White, Putty, Hartford Green, Hemlock, Morning Sky Gray, Brick Red, Black, or a custom color for any Architect Series window or door

Architect Series Features — Hardy hardware

Patented Unison Lock System secures both upper and lower locks with a single easy-to-reach handle
Stainless steel operating hardware helps resist rust and corrosion — even in demanding seacoast environments; standard hardware in Champagne or White; optional hardware colors in Bright Brass, Satin Nickel or Oil-Rubbed Bronze
Optional Rocky Mountain® hardware; each piece is cast in solid bronze
Superior patio door hinge design ensures years of dependable performance

Architect Series Features — Design custom looks with grilles

S-shaped (ogee) grilles permanently bonded to the inside and outside of energy-efficient insulating glass with a patented nonglare spacer between panes of glass
Solid wood on the interior and wood or aluminum on the exterior
Choose from four standard grille patterns (Traditional, Prairie, 9-Lite Prairie, Top Row) or create a custom pattern on all Architect Series® windows and doors
Available with or without removable, interior wood grilles in standard or Colonial profile

*High-altitude Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon.

The value of ENERGY STAR� designations

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 12:00:00 -0500

“With the expected high cost of natural gas this fall and winter, choosing energy-saving products is a must for any consumer. To avoid the sticker shock of high utility bills, consumers should look around their home and identify where replacing or updating items would result in a better long-term return on investment and short-term defense against high energy prices.”

Kathy Krafka Harkema
Pella Corporation

Consumers can help battle anticipated high energy prices by planning now. The Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR program is one of the most comprehensive and consumer-friendly tools available. This tip sheet, featuring facts about ENERGY STAR, is provided by Pella Corporation as a resource for homeowners considering new, energy-efficient windows and doors and to educate consumers about energy conservation as America buckles down for significantly higher energy bills in the future.

What is ENERGY STAR?

ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through the use of high-efficiency products.
Started by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, ENERGY STAR began as a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The ENERGY STAR label is now on major appliances, office equipment, lighting and home electronics, in addition to quality windows and doors. EPA also has extended the program to include new homes and commercial and industrial buildings.

How it works for you

ENERGY STAR labels on products such as windows, doors, lighting fixtures, appliances and heating and cooling equipment mean these products use less energy, save money and help protect the environment.
Energy efficiency means delivering the same (or more) services for less energy, which helps protect the environment. When we use less energy, power plants don’t need to generate as much energy, which then reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves the quality of our air.
Plus, energy efficiency helps the economy by saving consumers and businesses millions of dollars in energy costs.
And energy-saving solutions can reduce energy bills for many homeowners and businesses by an estimated 20 to 30 percent.

Windows and doors

Many Pella products meet ENERGY STAR standards. Look for Pella products with low U-values, which measure the ability to resist the transfer of heat. The lower the U-value, the better, and Pella has some of the lowest in the industry — some as much as 23 percent more energy efficient than the ENERGY STAR standards.
Solid wood construction offers superior insulating qualities — wood provides 1,100 times the insulating value of aluminum.
In addition, Pella’s ThermaStar by Pella™ vinyl windows and doors and Pella® Impervia® products made from Duracast™, the strongest, most durable material available in windows and doors, are designed to provide greater energy efficiency than aluminum or other alternative materials.
Double- and triple-paned glazing options are available for maximum energy efficiency.
Optional low-emissivity (Low-E) glass coatings help reduce heat, as well as ultraviolet (UV) rays that can fade carpet, walls and furniture.
Make sure windows fit tightly and no air comes through the frame. Proper installation is vital to energy efficiency.
Keep window blinds and shades closed during hot months to conserve energy and open on sunny days during cold months to let in solar heat, which can help reduce heating bills.

Energy saving tips*

Eliminate wasted energy
- Turn off appliances, lights and non-essential electrical equipment when not in use. You also can save by unplugging electronic devices and chargers when they are not in use.
Turn up your thermostat
- During warm weather months, set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher when you are home, and 85 degrees or off when you are away. Using ceiling or room fans allows you to set the thermostat higher because the air movement will cool the room. You can save up to 3 percent for each degree the thermostat is set above 72 degrees.
Use your appliances wisely
- To help prevent electricity outages, avoid running your appliances during peak demand hours — from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. — or anytime an electricity emergency is declared.
Use energy-efficient lighting
- Replace regular incandescent light bulbs that are used more than two hours per day with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use approximately 75 percent less electricity than regular light bulbs and last up to seven years!
Wrap your water heater
- If your water heater is older than 10 years, wrap it with an insulating blanket to help conserve energy.
Replace air conditioner filters
- Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run longer, increasing energy use. Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit and save up to 2 percent.
Install energy-saver showerheads
- This can save not only electricity, but water as well.
Install an ENERGY STAR thermostat
- This can save up to 3 percent of your electricity use, to automatically adjust heating and cooling levels in your home to your preset preferences, even while you’re away.

Pella earned 2009 ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE) have awarded Pella Corporation a 2009 ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for its continued leadership in protecting the environment through energy efficiency.

This designation recognizes Pella, an ENERGY STAR partner since 1999, for its long-term commitment to providing highly energy-efficient products, and the company’s comprehensive integration of ENERGY STAR information in media relations, consumer education programs, advertising, Pella Web site and training. It also recognizes Pella’s leadership for manufacturing products that earn the ENERGY STAR symbol, which is the government-backed symbol of energy efficiency.

This is the third year Pella has received an ENERGY STAR honor. Pella was a 2007 and 2008 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award winner for the Product Manufacturer — Windows category for Pella’s outstanding contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by manufacturing and educating consumers about energy-efficient products.

The Partner of the Year Awards are given to manufacturers and retailers that successfully promote and deliver ENERGY STAR qualified products, saving consumers money and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Award winners are selected from thousands of organizations that participate in the ENERGY STAR program each year.

For additional information visit the following sites:
www.energystar.gov
www.efficientwindows.org (Efficient Windows Collaborative)
www.nfrc.org (National Fenestration Rating Council)

Further questions?
Contact your local Pella® Window & Door Showroom or call 888-847-3552 or visit www.pella.com.

* Sources: Department of Energy; tips provided by state of California

Understanding condensation

Mon, 03 Sep 2007 12:00:00 -0500

Moisture is present in all homes, but when it becomes excessive, homeowners need to take an active role in protecting their investment.

Humidity and condensation

Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor in the air.
Condensation is water that forms when warm, moist air hits a cooler surface. In homes, it might occur on surfaces such as windows, bathroom walls and cold-water pipes.
When interior humidity levels are too high relative to cooler outdoor temperatures, condensation can form on the coldest surface in a room — often the glass in a window or door.
While windows and doors do not cause condensation, they may be one of the first places it shows up.

What causes condensation?
• Excess humidity is typically the cause of condensation. There are many sources for moisture in a home: showers, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, house plants, humans and pets, among others. In newly built homes, additional moisture may escape from building materials such as lumber, plaster and masonry for up to three heating seasons, even with proper air-flow and temperature management.

Older vs. newer homes
• Condensation may be less of an issue in older homes if conditions allow for more air exchange between indoors and out, often from around aging, loose or poorly installed windows and doors. However, the tradeoff is higher energy bills.
• Newer homes, on the other hand, are more airtight and energy efficient. Many have vapor barriers — plastic within the wall cavity that blocks moisture passage in either direction. With tighter fitting doors and windows, vapor barriers and increased insulation, energy costs are lower, but humidity levels must be monitored more closely.
• No matter when your home was built, the key is to strike the right balance when it comes to humidity levels. Air that’s too dry can cause furniture to dry out and crack, joints and studs to shrink and twist, and paint and plaster to crack. Excessive moisture in the home can cause paint to peel and insulation to deteriorate, and condensation on windows and doors can damage sills and trim.

Measuring and controlling humidity
• To determine how much humidity is present in your home, you can purchase a humidity gauge from a hardware store or home center. Invest in a quality unit for greater potential accuracy in assessing humidity levels or consult an expert. Another way to monitor the interior humidity level is to watch your windows. When interior condensation begins to form, reduce the humidity by opening windows, running exhaust fans or dehumidifiers, or minimizing sources of moisture.
• The University of Minnesota Laboratories provides a chart showing recommended relative humidity levels for the home. For a copy, go to www.thermastarbypella.com/maint.asp?section=preventing

Exterior condensation
• Exterior condensation on windows occurs primarily in the morning when days are warm and humid, but nights are cool. Typically, it clears as the day warms. Exterior condensation can occur at any time, especially in warm, humid climates where interior temperatures are cooler than outdoor conditions. Exterior condensation means that windows are doing their job properly. However, if you spot excessive condensation on the inside of your windows, check your inside humidity – it may be a signal of potential problems if not addressed.

Tips for winter-time moisture management
• Closely monitor the furnace humidifier and any other humidifying devices.
• Be sure louvers and vents for the attic, basement and/or crawl space are open, adequately sized and cross-ventilated.
• Run exhaust fans for kitchen, bathroom and laundry rooms for longer periods.
• Make sure exhaust fans vent directly outside, not into attics or crawlspaces.
• Be sure chimneys are free and clear so moisture in combustion gases can escape.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for venting gas appliances. In most cases that will mean directing vents to the outside of the home.
• Make sure your furnace is in proper working order and is serviced regularly.
• Store firewood outside or in the garage since as wood dries, it gives off moisture.
• Open a door or window for several minutes each day to refresh the inside air.
• Open window coverings — such as blinds, shades, drapes, and curtains — during daylight hours to increase airflow over the glass.
• Install energy-efficient windows, such as those with the ENERGY STAR® designation.

For more information on condensation in the home, consult the following:
• USDA Forest Service’s Residential Moisture Management Network, www.rmmn.org
• Home Moisture Problems, published by the Oregon State University Extension Services, http://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pdf/ec/ec1437.pdf
• University of Minnesota Department of Environmental Health and Safety, www.dehs.umn.edu

Pella� window screens: Combine technology and innovation

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 11:37:00 -0500

Pella set the standard of screen technology and innovation starting in 1925, when it began as the Rolscreen Company, manufacturing screens that roll up and down like a shade. Pella continues to lead the industry in quality screen innovations.

Pella Vivid View® screen
•    Exclusively available from Pella, the Vivid View screen features a high-transparency screen fabric
•    The virtually invisible screen allows for better views from the interior and is remarkably less noticeable from the exterior of the home or business, greatly enhancing curb appeal
•    Available on current Pella Architect Series®, Designer Series® and ProLine® casement and double-hung windows.
•    Adaptable to retro-fit Pella Architect Series and Designer Series windows from 1995 to current models by contacting a Pella® Window & Door Showroom. Also adaptable to ProLine double-hung units from 1997 to current models, and casement and awning units from 2000.
•    Great virtually “invisible” choice for builders wanting to specify screens on the front elevation of new homes when housing development covenants may discourage the use of standard screens
•    Vivid View screens feature Gore™ Transparent Screen Fabric, a proprietary material developed by W.L. Gore and Associates, Inc.
•    Gore is a leader in developing advanced technology products for the electronics, industrial, fabrics and medical markets
•    The company is best known for consumer products like GORE-TEX® fabric and ELIXIR® guitar strings

Pella’s exclusive Rolscreen®
•    Our signature product, the Rolscreen, was the first of many Pella innovative solutions
•    Updated in its design and still popular today, the patented Rolscreen insect screen rolls up like a shade on windows and storm doors and sideways on sliding patio doors to truly integrate with the design, rather than detract from it
•    The Rolscreen rolls out of sight when not in use, allowing more light than a standard size casement window covered by a traditional flat screen
•    Eliminates the need for seasonal screen storage and provides the convenience of a year-round screen with unobstructed views
•    The Rolscreen is enhanced with an optional all-wood interior that integrates naturally with window finishes and provides the convenience of a self-storing screen
•    Available on Pella Architect Series and Designer Series casement windows; Rolscreen technology also applied to Pella patio doors and storm doors
•    Pella’s exclusive Rolscreen features flexible fiberglass screen cloth for years of satisfaction.

Flat insect screens
•    Standard option on most Pella windows and doors
•    Rust-free, fiberglass screen
•    Easy to snap in place and remove if desired for seasonal storage; or leave in place for use throughout the year
•    Available in full or half sizes on double-hung windows; full screen swings out to make cleaning easy

Comparative costs
While actual prices may vary at independently owned and operated Pella Window and Door Showrooms, or other authorized Pella distributors, an Architect Series casement window, 25 inches wide by 53 inches tall, together with a screen option would have prices starting at $370* fitted with a standard flat screen, $440* with a Rolscreen, or $450* with a Vivid View screen.

Screen sense
•    Insect screens are designed to provide ventilation while keeping insects out; they are not designed to, nor will they prevent, a child’s fall from a window
•    Open the top sash of a double-hung window to allow ventilation and provide greater safety in homes with children or pets
•    For safety’s sake, always monitor small children and pets around an open window. Keep play away from open windows, doors and balconies.
•    Do not allow children to open or push on a screen
•    Make sure screens are in working order and easily removable as a means of quick and easy exit in the event of fire
•    In homes occupied by young children, do not place furniture or other items in front of a window, which could create a climbing or falling hazard
•    Repair or replace torn screens and damaged weather stripping for maximum performance
•    Contact your nearest Pella® Window & Door Showroom for Pella screen repair or replacement.

*Based on manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

The family of Pella� brands

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 03:00:00 -0500

PELLA IMPERVIA*

Pella Impervia — Windows and patio doors are manufactured from Duracast®, the strongest, most durable material available in windows and doors. Duracast is an exclusive five-layer fiberglass composite, offering customers:

Non-wood option manufactured with Pella quality, features and support
Affordable alternative to aluminum and vinyl
Durability and energy efficiency
Factory prefinished product available in a range of colors
Various glazing, grille and frame options
Designed to withstand the forces of Mother Nature, in all types of climate extremes ranging from desert dryness, to extreme heat, cold, and moisture conditions
Limited lifetime warranty

Quality vinyl windows and doors made by Pella — Vinyl windows, doors and sliding doors provide consumers a quality, cost-efficient solution for new construction, remodeling and replacement needs. Fully factory-assembled, ready to install and virtually maintenance-free, vinyl windows and doors from Pella provide:

Energy efficiency helps lower heating and cooling costs and keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer

One-piece frames and steel reinforcement where needed to provide strength and resistance to all types of weather elements; custom sizes available in 1/8-inch increments for an exact fit

Little- to zero-maintenance; interiors and exteriors look great for years and withstand all kinds of weather without decay or peeling paint

Solid white or almond color options throughout frame and door panel material, which conceal minor dings and scratches

Design pressure 40, standard on most products; select high-performance products are available with design pressures of 50 or higher to meet some of the strongest industry performance requirements.

Three brands; one standard of quality from Pella:
ThermaStar by Pella®

For customers seeking trained professionals to provide product and installation service or for do-it-yourself projects, ThermaStar by Pella is available at Pella Window & Door Showrooms and Lowe’s

Encompass by Pella™

For customers looking for trained professionals to provide product and installation service or for do-it-yourself projects, Encompass by Pella is available at Pella Window & Door Showrooms

Centera by Pella™

Available to builders and contractors looking for quality vinyl windows and patio doors at select 84 Lumber locations in 2007

Pella legacy products

Until 1990, Pella Corporation offered one brand of wood windows and doors
Today, Pella's three primary wood product brands include:

Architect Series®, created in 1990
Designer Series®, created in 1992
ProLine®, created in 1992

The three brands all feature:

Superior quality on which Pella’s reputation has been built
Products designed, manufactured and tested to provide outstanding value and performance
20/10 warranty (20 years on glass, 10 years on all other components)

Pella's variety of brands enables consumers to find the unique style of premium-quality windows and doors complementing specific project goals and budget

Architect Series — features historic authenticity, like the patented true divided light styling of Integral Light Technology®, combined with excellent energy efficiency including:

Custom sizes and shapes
Multiple grille patterns
Primed wood or EnduraClad® exteriors
Variety of cladding colors
Available with Pella's exclusive impact-resistant glass offering superior protection for buildings or homes in the fiercest of winds

Designer Series — distinctive between-the-glass window fashions such as blinds, shades, fabric or decorative panels plus changeable grille patterns for windows or doors that are versatile, sleek and free of cords

Decorative panels, fabric or stained-glass inserts
25 blind or shade colors
Convenient cordless operation with no roomside cords
Window fashions that can change with the styles or the seasons
Variety of cladding colors and grille patterns
Double- and triple-panes of glass for outstanding energy efficiency
Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass are number one for energy efficiency among top national brands.**

ProLine — solid-wood windows and doors, competitively priced, to provide superior value with 100 percent Pella quality, featuring:

Wide range of standard sizes and combinations
Three exterior EnduraClad color options
Two glazing options
Rated one of Pella’s most energy efficient products

* See FAST FACTS — Pella® Impervia® product line for more information
** Superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings

Pella: A leader in environmental stewardship

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:00:00 -0500

Pella has long been a trendsetter in protecting the environment. The company practices environmental stewardship in three primary ways: responsible use of natural resources, recycling and creating energy-efficient products.

Pella’s environmental initiatives have been nationally recognized with the “Promise to the Earth” award sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation and the Hammer Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in recognition of hazardous chemical release reductions.

No newcomer to conserving natural resources, Pella’s current practices were inspired by Founder Pete Kuyper, who announced more than 50 years ago: “We recognize our responsibilities as stewards of our natural resources and the environment, and will avoid wasteful or harmful disregard of the environmental effects of our operations.”

Natural resources

Responsible procurement means using sustainable sources and species and working with vendors who practice responsible harvest and replenishment. Pella recognizes the major certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Program, the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest (PEFC) Council, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
As a responsible consumer of natural resources, Pella leads the industry in use of wood from sustainable sources. More than 80 percent of its wood comes from vendors certified by organizations that are certified in responsible forestry management.

Recycling

Pella maximizes recycling opportunities, minimizes waste and pollution, reduces consumption, employs the latest in wood byproduct management and recycling strategies, and ensures that its products are made to last.
For example, Pella recycles or reuses nearly 99 percent of the sawdust created through manufacturing. It also recycles many materials used in its manufacturing plants and offices, including oil, batteries and solvents. At least 95 percent of the cladding on Pella windows and doors comes from recycled aluminum. Broken and surplus glass gets reused in applications such as reflective coatings for highways, glass containers and more windows, and surplus insect screen is recycled into archery targets.
Pella Corporation initiated an annual community-wide electronics recycling (e-cycling) event in 2005 honoring Earth Day, encouraging its employees and local residents to safely recycle obsolete electronics such as cellular phones, computers, video cassette recorders, and televisions. Pella partnered with a computer disposal company to process electronic equipment by removing all information from computers before they were recycled or resold.

Energy-efficient products

As a volunteer partner in the Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR® program, Pella promotes the use of high-efficiency products to help reduce energy usage. Its Low-E insulating glass with argon* helps prevent the transfer of heat and block ultraviolet rays that damange carpeting, fabrics and wall coverings. The construction of many of Pella’s products offers outstanding insulating qualities.
To ensure product performance and customer satisfaction, the company regularly tests virtually every opening wood window for air infiltration right on the manufacturing line. Pella’s Architect Series® wood casement windows, for example, are six times tighter than the industry’s highest residential standard for air infiltration.
Pella's Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass rate number one for energy efficiency among top national brands.**
Pella is a member of the Efficient Windows Collaborative and the National Fenestration Rating Council, a non-profit organization providing accurate information to measure and compare energy performance of window, door and skylight products.
Nationally recognized with the "Promise to the Earth" award sponsored by The National Arbor Day Foundation and the Hammer Award from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in recognition of hazardous chemical release reductions.

For more information, or to read Pella’s full statement of environmental responsibility, go to www.pella.com/resources/pdf/EnvirCopyFINAL.pdf.

*High-altitude Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon

**Superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings

Adding a storm door is now easier

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 12:00:00 -0500

“A new storm door can add significant value to a home both functionally and aesthetically. A new storm door is a quick and inexpensive solution that enhances the important first impression of the home and protects the entry door from the weather. It’s truly a wise investment in many ways.”

Kathy Krafka Harkema
Pella Corporation spokesperson

When to replace or add

Ask these questions to evaluate whether to invest in a new storm door:

Is it difficult to open and close the existing storm door?
Is there warm or cold air leaking in or around the storm door?
How does it look? Is there warping? How smoothly do the hinges operate?
Does the entry door have air leaks in and around it?
Is there a desire to have more natural light in the entry area of the home?
Do you want a storm door that allows you to bring fresh air into your home?
Is there a desire to make a “fashion statement” with the front entryway?
Is the old storm door finish worn off or showing other signs of deterioration?

If the answer is yes to any or all of these questions, the home is a good candidate for a new storm door. It’s money well spent to improve the energy efficiency of the home and maintain an excellent appearance for the outside of the home.

How to measure

Measure the space between the exterior brick mold trim pieces, not the inner door jamb; the brick mold is the external casing that frames the door; the jamb is the vertical piece that frames the outer edges of the door
Measure the width of the entry door opening in three places; across the top, middle and bottom — use the smallest of the three measurements as your width
Measure the height down the middle of the opening
Most homes will need a standard size 32 inches by 81 inches or 36 inches by 81 inches door, but custom size doors can be ordered to fit a variety of opening sizes

Choices

Style — Many companies, including Pella, allow the customer to design their own storm door by selecting the color, glass and handle preferences. Pella’s Select® series features many popular colors, decorative glass patterns, and solid brass handle choices to allow a homeowner to customize his/her entryway.
Frame styles — Homeowners can choose from several frame styles to fit their needs
- Fullviews feature the most glass area and allow the most light and air into the home. Pella’s Express Install installation system for all fullview storm doors cuts what was once a half-day labor- and time-intensive project to only about one hour. Pella’s Express Install gives customers the pre-assembled parts; no cutting is required and pre-drilled installation and assembly holes eliminate any guesswork. Pella’s innovation requires only five tools to complete the storm door installation.
- Midviews feature slightly less glass area
- Highviews are half doorframe, half glass, allowing the most privacy; both highviews and midviews are great for high-traffic entryways
Ventilation — A homeowner can choose between several ventilation styles
- Interchangeable fullviews feature a full expanse of glass that can be switched to a full insect screen for seasonal ventilation, allowing plenty of natural light into the entryway
- Energy efficiency — Many storm doors feature overlapping frames with weatherstripping for a tight seal and better energy efficiency. Pella features several models with double weatherstripping for improved performance. According to independent testing, a Pella storm door added to an entryway can reduce energy loss through the entryway by up to 45 percent.
- Hardware — Storm door handles range from basic to upscale — solid brass and pewter handles; consumers now have many choices in affordable accents for their storm door

Tips

Decide what you can afford and what you plan to spend before going shopping
Evaluate your lifestyle and select the type of storm door that best suits your needs; is a fullview, midview or highview best for you and the type of use your new storm door will receive?
Storm doors that lock from the inside of the home provide an added sense of security, yet allow fresh air and natural light to enter your home
Do your homework; decide what storm door qualities are important to you and research how various brands compare in terms of function and performance
Before installing, be sure to inspect the wood jamb and trim around the opening to make sure they are secure and in good condition for a proper installation.
Be sure the door frame is square — use a level to decide; if it’s not, use shims to correct the fit

Further questions?
Contact your local Pella® Window & Door Showroom or call 888-847-3552 or visit www.pella.com.

Tips for selecting green windows and doors

Sat, 30 Jun 2007 09:00:00 -0500

What is green?

Green buildings are located, designed, constructed and maintained to promote resource conservation and in turn, to help enhance the well-being of occupants. Green buildings use resources wisely, to help minimize negative impacts on occupants and on the environment by:

Drawing on energy-efficient designs and materials built to last
Using recycled or sustainable materials
Helping improve indoor air quality
Landscaping exteriors to conserve energy and water
Providing a comfortable, easy-to-maintain, sustainable environment

In addition, green buildings often provide greater design flexibility, can help improve occupant productivity, and help reduce maintenance and replacement costs over the life of the building.

What is sustainable design?

Sustainable design seeks harmony with the environment as it balances human needs (as opposed to wants) with the carrying capacity of the natural and cultural environments. To achieve sustainable design, a variety of strategies are used during the design, construction and operation of building projects. Green building is one of those strategies used in the process to best utilize resources.

Essential elements in sustainable design include: optimizing the site potential for energy efficiency, water conservation, ease of use and security; using environmentally-friendly products, enhancing indoor air quality and simplifying maintenance to help reduce lifecycle costs.

Green is growing

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), new homes today are twice as energy-efficient as they were 30 years ago, due to cutting-edge green building techniques and technologies available for new and remodeled homes.

Nationwide, roughly 61,000 homes were built using local green building program guidelines from 1990-2004. In 2004 alone, more than 14,000 green homes were constructed.

With the green movement continually on the rise, there are green aspects to consider in every element of a newly constructed building or home. The LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System® is a voluntary, consensus-based national standard for developing high-performance, sustainable buildings. Members of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) representing all segments of the building industry developed LEED and continue to contribute to its evolution.

According to the USGBC, LEED was created to:

define "green building" by establishing a common standard of measurement
promote integrated, whole-building design practices
recognize environmental leadership in the building industry
stimulate green competition
raise consumer awareness of green building benefits
transform the building market

LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals. Based on well-founded scientific standards, LEED emphasizes state of the art strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

Pella products have been used on several LEED certified projects including gold and platinum ratings.

Green guide

Listed below are recommendations from Pella® Windows & Doors on what to look for in environmentally-friendly products.

Green window and door guide

Manufacturer’s commitment to environmental stewardship — Pella’s commitment to environmental stewardship is firmly rooted in the company’s culture, and has been since the company was established in 1925. Founder Pete Kuyper’s words in 1950 are still true today:
“We recognize our responsibilities as stewards of our natural resources and the environment, and will avoid wasteful or harmful disregard of the environmental effects of our operation.”
Energy efficiency — the building envelope is a key part of how a building will perform in relation to energy efficiency. When a building envelope has windows and doors, there are holes in that envelope that could compromise the energy efficiency. That’s why window and door choices are critical, because high quality and energy efficient windows and doors should be used.
- Wood windows with triple glazing and blinds between the glass are one option because they offer excellent U-Values and thermal properties of the wood. Pella® Designer Series® is GreenSpec® (1) listed and in fact, Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass are number one for energy efficiency among top national brands.* Most Architect Series®, ProLine®, Impervia® and ThermaStar by Pella® products meet ENERGY STAR® requirements of .35 u-values or less.
Recycled content — evaluate the amount of recycled content used — this can be post-consumer or post-industrial.
Indoor air quality — the main issue with indoor air quality is VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), so at the very least products need to meet some type of requirements such as Green Seal®.
- Pella products that are unfinished or factory finished with Pella pre-finish or prime meet VOC and chemical components limits of Green Seal® Standard GS-11 requirements.
Daylighting and views — daylighting and views are a key window property for green, because windows allow for natural daylighting which reduces or eliminates the need for artificial lighting saving on energy costs. A key component is to place windows and shading devices in a location that maximizes daylighting and minimizes heat gain. Views are maximized if all occupants have visibility to the outdoors. Studies show this contributes positively to both work environments and life improvement.
Increase ventilation effectiveness — operable windows can assist with this, if the building is going to be naturally ventilated to reduce the need for mechanical systems for fresh air flow.
Light pollution — lights can pollute the night sky and neighboring properties, including the interior lights from a building. The goal is to eliminate light trespass from the building.
- Pella Designer Series with blinds or shades between the glass are a logical solution to decrease light pollution because of the easy and efficient way to decrease light.
Wood as a building material — utilizing renewable resources.
- Many Pella products are made from wood — a renewable resource.
Certified wood — there are several wood certification systems available, the most well known being FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative). Most of the well-known certification systems are developed and used with the same key purpose in mind, which is to practice sustainable forestry. How they do this will vary.
- Wood is the only renewable source for any building material commonly used today. (Source: AIA Environmental Resource Guide)
- Net volume of softwood on U.S. forestlands was 12 percent greater in 1997 than in 1953. (Source: Forest Resources of the United States, 2002)
- 80 percent of Pella Corporation’s wood supply comes from 3rd party certified forestry.

A budding green example — Pella® Impervia®

Pella Impervia windows and patio doors, made of patented fiberglass composite materials, are proof that energy efficiency doesn’t only come in the form of wood and doesn’t apply only to new homes. Pella Impervia products support the green movement and contribute to LEED projects in several major categories.

Here’s how this high endurance product from Pella is the perfect solution for a home or business while supporting the green movement:

Energy, atmosphere

Pella’s patented, five-layer, engineered fiberglass composite, Duracast®, offers low expansion and contraction rates that help ensure a consistent bond between sash and glass and a weathertight fit between sash and frame.
Duracast offers resistance to condensation and superior thermal comfort to those seated near windows.
Pella Impervia products with Low-E insulating glass are designed to provide energy efficiency that will save money by lowering heating and cooling bills.
These high endurance products are NFRC-certified and meet ENERGY STAR® requirements in all 50 states, helping save on energy costs.
All Pella Impervia products are tested for compliance with WDMA Hallmark Certification testing standards.
Pella Impervia windows are highly energy efficient, with total unit U-values as low as .28 and air infiltration rates as low as 0.1 cfm/sq.ft. Virtually every unit is factory-tested for air infiltration rates when manufactured.

Materials and resources

Product packaging contains recyclable cardboard and stretch wrap.
Pella Impervia products have a 21 percent post-industrial recycled content by weight.
Duracast’s factory-applied powder-coat finish is extremely hard, scratch resistance and does not corrode, which helps windows and doors last through time.

Environmental quality

Pella Impervia windows and doors don’t need painting. They arrive with a durable powder-coat paint finish, an environmentally conscious coating, that does not emit any significant air pollutants found in liquid paint finishes, which are typically made with greater than 50 percent solvents which evaporate into the air during spraying and drying.
Duracast features a factory-applied powder-coat finish, virtually eliminating VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) during the paint process, and overspray of paint from the powder-coating process can be collected and used again and again.
Pella Impervia offers a variety of operable window and door types for fresh air ventilation.

* Superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings

Sources:

GreenSpec is a BuildingGreen product information service. It contains detailed listings for more than 1,800 environmentally preferable building products with descriptions, manufacturer information, and links to additional resources. All listings are screened and written exclusively by staff. Pella does not pay for its listings and did not purchase an ad to be included in this directory. Pella’s Designer Series classification in GreenSpec is:

Pella's Designer Series® wood windows and doors are available with an interior hinged glass panel and with an exterior panel of either single-pane or double-pane Low-E insulating glass with argon**. The exterior is clad with recycled aluminum finished with a baked-on EnduraClad® coating. These windows are made with 21 percent post-industrial recycled content, per the manufacturer. A number of Pella windows have unit U-factors at or below 0.25.

Other useful sources:
U. S. Green Building Council, green building fact sheet

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) green building media fact sheet

**High-altitude Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon.

Energy-saving fun facts from Pella� Windows & Doors

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 10:03:00 -0500

A: Three
Q: The number of years Pella Corporation earned recognition from the Department of Energy. In 2007 and 2008, Pella was the ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award for window manufacturer. In 2009, Pella continues its environmental leadership as a Sustained Excellence award winner.

A: 57
Q: Out of a possible 69-point criterion, 57 is the number of points the Common Fire Foundation received when it built the second greenest building in the U.S.A. The U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Platinum rating was awarded to the building in upstate New York which features Pella’s energy-efficient Designer Series® windows.

A: 50
Q: According to the National Association of Home Builders, some 50 percent of all builders will produce at least some homes using green methods by 2010.

A: 1950
Q: The year Pella founder Pete Kuyper made this proclamation, which is still true today:
“We recognize our responsibilities as stewards of our natural resources and the environment, and will avoid wasteful or harmful disregard of the environmental effects of our operation.”

A: $11 billion
Q: Spending per year on green building in 2006. By 2010, the National Association of Home Builders expects that number to be between $29 billion and $57 billion a year.

A: 28
Q: According to Pella Windows & Doors, triple-paned glass can decrease energy bills by as much as 28 percent.

A: $100
Q: According to the U. S. Green Building Council, changing five of the most frequently used light bulbs in your home to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) can save $100 per year on electric bills.

A: 50
Q: The number of U.S. states where virtually all Pella® entry doors meet ENERGY STAR® requirements. Selecting ENERGY STAR qualified doors helps save energy and lower heating and cooling bills.

A: No. 1
Q: Pella Designer Series® triple-pane windows are rated No.1 for energy efficiency among top national brands*

A: Pella
Q: The first company to introduce a revolutionary screen and window (and today available on patio doors and storm doors) that was truly integrated, where the screen rolls up and out of sight when not in use. Pella Corporation was founded in 1925 as the Rolscreen Company and initially, the company was most widely known for its “disappearing” Rolscreen® window screen.

* Superior National Fenestration Rating Council U-values and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient ratings.

Good Sources:
US Green Building Council, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program
https://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=2121
Pella Pressroom
http://pressroom.pella.com/timely_tips/display.htm?section=16&release=102
National Association of Home Builders
http://www.nahb.org/page.aspx/landing/sectionID=3

ProLine double-hung Simulated-Divided-Light window adds stylish twist

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 12:00:00 -0500

Pella’s ProLine® brand takes a stylish twist with the ProLine double-hung Simulated-Divided-Light (SDL) window. It’s sure to win high marks with builders, architects and homeowners looking for a classic profile on the popular product line known for outstanding quality, performance and value.

ProLine double-hung SDL windows

What is SDL?
- Contoured 7/8-inch grilles permanently bonded to the interior (wood) and exterior (aluminum) glass
- Interior available in prefinished White
- Exterior colors available in White, Tan or Brown
- ENERGY STAR® qualified (with Low-E insulating glass with argon*)

What makes a ProLine SDL unique?

Superior design, style, panache
- Authentic and classic look for a traditional window
- Available prefinished to save builders and homeowners time and money
- Permanently applied grilles to interior and exterior give look and feel of high-end product without the added cost
- Adds depth and dimension to windows for added appeal
- Colors available match the exterior window color
Popular with builders, architects, remodelers, homeowners
- Builders can deliver a high quality SDL solution from Pella
- Architectural detail not available before with ProLine brand
- Competitively priced
- Available in a variety of double-hung standard sizes
- Solid wood construction
- Easy clean tilt-wash sash
- Aluminum-clad exteriors
- Lowering the upper sash to allow air to flow into the home, while keeping the lower sash closed allows for ventilation, while providing greater safety in homes with young children

More about ProLine windows and doors — Basic done beautifully®

Casement and awning windows
- Six times tighter than the industry’s highest residential standard for air infiltration
- Integrated crank with fold-away handle won’t interfere with window treatments; standard in Champagne; optional in White, Bright Brass, Satin Nickel or Oil-Rubbed Bronze
- Stainless steel operating hardware helps resist rust and corrosion — even in demanding seacoast environments
- Variety of standard sizes and three standard exterior colors (White, Tan, Brown); optional prefinished White interior
- Optional 3/4-inch traditional pattern removable roomside wood grilles or permanent aluminum grilles between-the-glass
- Solid wood construction
- Standard aluminum EduraClad® exterior
- Standard clear insulating glass; optional Low-E insulating glass with argon*
- Patented SureLock® System reaches out to engage and lift the window sash, pulling it tight against the weatherstripping; Unison Lock System secures both upper and lower locks with a single easy-to-reach handle
- Optional insect screen
French-hinged patio doors
- Unique multipoint locking system secures door at head, jamb and sill
- Factory-assembled standard-size doors come prehung and ready for quick, easy installation
- Standard clear insulating glass; optional argon-filled, Low-E insulating glass
- Optional 3/4-inch traditional pattern removable roomside wood grilles or permanent aluminum grilles between-the-glass
- Standard aluminum EduraClad exterior
- Optional screen door to match exterior color
- Tan, White or Brown exterior aluminum cladding colors
- Standard Bright Brass handle finish
- Single-panel doors come as in-swing door
- Double-panel doors feature one in-swing door, one fixed
Sliding patio doors
- Sliding panel on the outside creates a tighter seal when the wind blows
- Factory-assembled standard-size doors come prehung and ready for quick installation
- Available in contemporary style with more visible glass area
- Convenient thumblock allows easy one-hand operation
- Optional 3/4-inch traditional pattern removable roomside wood grilles or permanent aluminum grilles between-the-glass
- Standard clear insulating glass; optional argon-filled, Low-E insulating glass
- Standard aluminum EduraClad exterior
- Tan, White or Brown exterior aluminum cladding colors
- Champagne finish on handles; optional in White, Bright Brass, Satin Nickel or Oil-Rubbed Bronze
- Exterior handle matches cladding color
- Single-point locking system; optional keylock (exterior) or footbolt — holds door open for ventilation
- Optional top-hung screen door

*High-altitude Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon.

Clean up your act! How to really clean windows

Fri, 25 May 2007 12:00:00 -0500

"Maintaining and cleaning windows should be part of an annual home improvement checklist to maximize your view and the overall performance of your home. It's easier than ever to keep your windows clean and functioning at their best, thanks to innovations and handy tips from Pella."

Kathy Krafka Harkema
Window expert
Pella Corporation

How hard can it be to clean a window? Believe it or not there is an art to it. Anyone who's ever tried to clean glass knows there's more involved than a few shots of window cleaner and a roll of paper towels. Large swipe marks, smudges of dirt, streaks and residue are telltale signs of improper cleaning.

Take some tips from the experts at Pella on how to professionally clean glass windows, insect screens, blinds and even hardware.

Yes, I do windows

To wash interior glass of windows and doors, use a premixed vinegar and water solution (one part white vinegar to 10 parts water) and a soft, lint-free towel or cloth.
Ammonia-free Windex® Glass and Surface Cleaner (clear liquid) or Sparkle Glass Cleaner (purple liquid) are Pella-recommended glass cleaning options for best overall results.
For outside cleaning, use the same mixture and a squeegee.
Be generous with the amount of cleaner applied.
Rinse with clear water if streaks remain after cleaning.
Carefully use a mild abrasive, such as Soft Scrub® (The Clorox Company), and wet cloth for tougher marks such as grease, oil, tape adhesive, crayons or paint. Wipe clean using a dry, clean, lint-free towel or cloth. Then clean the glass as mentioned above.

Screens

To remove dust and dirt from screens, simply vacuum with the upholstery brush attachment.
For grease spots, typically found in kitchen screens, use hot water and a mild detergent.
For a flat screen, those found on a storm door or patio door, remove the screen and wash with soap and water. Or use a drapery brush attachment on a vacuum.

America would rather clean anything than the blinds

In a survey of homeowners across the United States, Pella found that homeowners would rather clean their grimy sinks, investigate the deep dark depths of their closets or wade through the old food in the refrigerator than tackle cleaning dirty shades or blinds. Nearly four in 10 Americans (39%) say cleaning the shades and blinds is simply the pits.

While no one really wants to take on the blinds and window shades, wealthy homeowners and Westerners especially resist it. Homeowners earning more than $50,000 annually are almost twice as likely (46% vs. 26%) to dread window treatment cleaning more than those who earn $25,000 or less, a sentiment that 47% of Westerners agree with. That's 10% more than all the rest of the nation. Of all the household cleaning chores that need attention, cleaning the blinds is least liked.

Here are a few tips from Pella to make this household chore easier:

Blinds/shades

Wood blinds
- Regular dusting will maintain a like-new appearance
- For deeper cleaning, vacuum gently with brush attachment of any vacuum cleaner
Non-wood blinds (plastic, metal or otherwise)
- Immerse blinds in a tub or tray of lukewarm water and mild detergent
- Rinse with clear water and let dry before reinstalling
Fabric blinds or shades
- To remove dust, use a vacuum cleaner with a drapery brush attachment
- Use a damp cloth for smudges, fingerprints, etc.

Hardware

Brass
- Place the removed hardware on newspaper in well-ventilated area
- Brush with lacquer remover per manufacturer's instructions
- Use fine steel wool to remove coating and polish the brass
- Rinse with mild soap solution
- Apply high quality, nonabrasive, polymer-based car wax to seal the surface
- For tough to clean brass hardware, try soaking the hardware in a lacquer thinner or paint reducer overnight

Good cleaning tips

Avoid using ammonia- or alcohol-based glass cleaners which can result in streaks or a film that attracts moisture or dust.
Never use cleaners with ammonia on fabric — they will cause irreversible damage.
Avoid using a razor blade on glass to scrape off stubborn marks — permanent scratches can result.
To reduce the likelihood of cleaning blinds or shades all together, choose Pella® Designer Series® windows or patio doors with the shades protected between the panes of glass.
Remember, cleaning windows from inside the home is a safer proposition than standing on a two-story ladder, so consider replacement windows with a tilt-in feature (double-hung) or extra wide openings between the sash and frame (casement) for easy access and safe cleaning.

Further questions?

Contact your local Pella® Window & Door Showroom or call 888-847-3552 or visit www.pella.com.
For year-round window safety tips visit www.nsc.org/aware/window/.

Windows 101

Mon, 21 May 2007 12:00:00 -0500

"Windows are one of the few items simultaneously seen both inside and outside your home. In addition to being a functional item to add light and ventilation, windows today are often viewed as a critical styling element and as a fashion item to accent your home. Investing in quality windows not only adds to the value of your home, but to your enjoyment of life."

Gary Mathes
Manager, Residential Architectural Support Services
Pella Corporation

If you’re thinking about building a new home, or remodeling your existing one, you may wonder about how to select the best windows for your project.

Before you begin, consider this: windows affect the appearance of both the inside and outside of your home and can make a huge different in your overall level of comfort and enjoyment in your home. Take time to learn more about the virtually limitless style and function options to maximize your window investment and enjoyment for many years.

Elements to consider

Appearance — Choose a window that will look good from the inside as well as the outside of your home. For maximizing light flow into the home, rather than keeping an insect screen in place all year, consider a window with a screen that rolls up and out of sight when not in use, or one that is engineered to allow more natural light and air to flow through.

Energy efficiency — Get the facts about factors that relate to energy efficiency, like U-values and Low-E insulating glass with argon* windows and weatherstripping. U-values measure the insulating value of windows and other fenestration products. The lower the U-value, the better job a window does in keeping out heat and cold (which is the opposite of R-value — the higher the R-value, the better insulation in the walls and ceilings). A low U-value is important in all climates. In Southern climates where air conditioning is important, choose a window with a lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) to block more of the sun’s heat rays. Compare efficiency ratings before you purchase a window to help lower heating and cooling costs and make the most of your investment.
An easy way to choose energy-efficient windows is to look for products that meet ENERGY STAR® requirements. The ENERGY STAR program was created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to help consumers identify windows and other products that save energy. Performance requirements for windows are tailored to meet the specific needs of different climates. For example, in Southern climates in the U.S., a low SHGC is most important. In Northern climates, a low U-value is most important. ENERGY STAR qualified windows assure homeowners the windows they choose are the most appropriate for their area in terms of energy efficiency.

Most high-performing windows today have glass coated with a Low-E microscopic film. The Low-E coating improves thermal performance and stops much of the sun’s heat rays and damaging UV rays while only slightly tinting the window. Read more about Low-E coating in the Glass types and options section of these tips.

For more information about energy efficiency, read The value of ENERGY STAR® designations Timely Tips in the online Pella Pressroom or go to the Consumer Information section of the National Fenestration Rating Council Web site at www.nfrc.org.

Function — Test the ease of operating a given window style before you buy it. Does it open smoothly? Is it easy to clean? If it’s a casement window, does the crank handle fold away to leave window fashions undisturbed? Keep in mind where the window will be placed — will it be easy to open, for instance, if it’s over the sink or another hard-to-reach spot? If the window will be a means of an escape exit in case of fire, make sure it opens easily and provides an adequately-sized opening to meet the needs of local building codes for emergency exits.

Installation — Window installation may be relatively straight forward or may be quite complex. If you are considering enlisting the services of a professional, it may be wise to inquire about installation services prior to purchasing your windows.

Location — Keep in mind which direction your windows will face and how much sunlight or weather they will be exposed to. Sometimes you can get too much of a good thing — oversized windows featuring standard glass can allow too much hot sun into a home during summer months. Consider selecting windows with between-the-glass shades or blinds for enhanced privacy. Select windows featuring Low-E coatings to protect your furnishings from overexposure to the summer’s hot sun.

Maintenance — How important is exterior maintenance to you? For the ultimate in convenience, consider virtually maintenance-free aluminum cladding that will keep your windows looking beautiful for years to come. Are the windows designed for ease of cleaning from the home’s interior? Are grilles protected between panes of glass to make cleaning a breeze? Are hardware options easy to maintain and operate?

Options — Don’t forget about the importance of color options in reflecting your style and adding to the appeal of your home. Some manufacturers offer limited exterior colors choices, while others offer custom colors to match your decor. The sky’s the limit when it comes to color choices, from standard options to custom colors to reflect your unique style. And color doesn’t end with the window itself. Today’s window hardware coordinates with other hardware options in your home, such as cabinetry hardware, faucets and other fixtures.

Personal preference — What style of windows do you prefer? Classic or contemporary? With grilles or without? If you make a quality window purchase, you will likely live with your decision for many years. Select a style that reflects your preference.

Price — Shop around, and remember, you get what you pay for. The least expensive window probably isn’t your best buy. A good quality window should provide decades of beauty and performance.

Purpose — Choose the right style and size for each window. Do you want the window to frame the view outside or simply provide ventilation? Will it function as an operable window or will it be a non-opening decorative accent for the outside of the home?

Window styles

Choosing a window style depends on your home’s architecture, the purpose or function of the window, and finally, your budget.

Awning — This casement-type window, hinged from the top, opening outward from the bottom, generally has less air leakage, because the sash closes by pressing against the frame. Because of this design, awning windows shed water away from the window opening. Awning windows are typically installed over fixed windows or doors (as transoms), or in garages above eye level to provide ventilation and privacy at the same time. They are a good choice for windows that are wider than they are tall.
Bay and bow — A typical bay window consists of a large center window bordered on either side by double-hung or casement windows set at 30- or 45-degree angles. All the windows can be stationary (fixed), operating (venting), or any combination of those. The bow window, similar to a bay window, consists of four or more equal-size windows, usually casements, that create a gradual arcing projection. Both bay and bow windows provide great open views, as well as give a room the aura of being larger than it really is. Adding a window seat is a popular addition to any bay or bow window.
Casement — A popular style featured in a wide variety of home designs, casement windows feature a single sash that’s hinged on the left or right and opens using a crank handle. That’s why they’re sometimes referred to as “crank out” windows. Casement windows offer more ventilation than double-hung windows, typically have less air leakage than other window styles, and look best if they are at least slightly taller than they are wide. Because they swing out, however, they may not be well suited to installation adjacent to heavy pedestrian traffic areas, such as decks or front porches.
Double-hung — Double-hung windows feature two sash in a single frame. The top and bottom sash bypass each other vertically when sliding open from the bottom up or the top down. Double-hung windows look best when they are about twice as tall as they are wide and the each sash is an equal-sized square. They are often installed in traditional or Victorian homes, or those featuring a classic or Colonial style.
Fixed — Often selected for decoration or in combination with other windows, fixed windows don’t open or vent. A circular or hexagonal window can be strategically placed to enhance a view or the exterior architecture of your home. Or, in a window wall, a fixed window can be flanked by venting units and topped with smaller fixed units, called transoms.
Single-hung — Single-hung windows offer all the features and benefits of double hung windows, with one difference: only the bottom sash opens by sliding upward. The ventilation opening can be adjusted from a small area to one-half of the window area.
Sliding — Sliding windows, sometimes called gliders or sliders, function just as their name implies — moving horizontally side to side. Sliders are one of the most sleek, contemporary profiles in windows, and ideal for installing in those hard-to-reach areas, like over the kitchen sink. They also are commonly installed in multi-family buildings and apartment complexes. Sliders are typically available as single-sliding (only one sash moves) or double-sliding units.
Skylights — Many homeowners who don’t necessarily have the wall space to add a window to a room, but want the benefits of natural light and extra ventilation, opt to install a skylight. Depending upon their placement, skylights can bring in more direct light and heat than windows. Skylights are available with either manual or remote control operation to provide ventilation. Some units are even equipped with rain sensors that automatically close the window when precipitation is detected. Still other skylights offer room side blinds or shades for added light control. For more information about skylights, read the Skylights Timely Tips in the online Pella Pressroom.
Transom — Like fixed windows, transoms are most often used in combination with other windows, and can be either venting or fixed units. They typically are installed underneath the primary window units, or on top of a room’s primary windows. They help give a room the illusion of larger windows, allow in more light and, if venting units, may increase airflow. Transoms often are used to create a window wall. Transom windows are available in many different shapes, including square, rectangular, half-circle, elliptical, and many more.
Window wall — Also often referred to as combination windows, window walls help make a small room look larger maximizing the amount of light and ventilation. They are literally a wall of windows in any combination of sizes, shapes and styles, sometimes stretching from floor to ceiling and wall to wall.

Glass types and options

Clear — Clear glass is the basic material available for windowpanes. In recent years, with the advent of ever-increasing energy costs, more homeowners are choosing glass with special glazing options, like Low-E coating, to enhance energy efficiency.

Low-E — Low-E coating is a microscopically thin finish of metal oxide on the surface of clear glass that reflects a high percentage of heat. This coating allows the sun's heat and light to pass through the glass into the home, while at the same time blocking heat from escaping the room, considerably reducing heat loss.

Heat absorbing — Glass treated with gray, green or bronze tints reduce heat gain by absorbing as much as 45 percent of the incoming solar energy, further increasing the energy efficiency of windows.

Reflective — Glass that has been coated with a reflective film is useful for controlling solar heat gain during the summer. It also reduces the passage of light and solar transmittance year-round.

Glass layers and air spaces — Homeowners can choose from one, two and sometimes even three panes of glass for their new windows. Single-pane glass is the least energy efficient option, providing only a thin barrier to the outside elements with very little insulating value, as evidenced by its high U-value. Multiple layers of glass increase a window’s ability to resist heat flow (decreasing the U-value) and greatly increasing its energy efficiency. An even more energy efficient window results when the double or triple-paned glass is a Low-E insulating glass with argon.*

Window materials

When purchasing new windows, one important consideration is the type of material used to make the window sash and frame. Now more than ever before homeowners have a choice of several materials.

Aluminum — While less expensive, aluminum windows are less energy efficient than windows made of other materials. Aluminum windows may experience conductive heat loss and condensation around the frame. If your home is equipped with aluminum windows, you may feel more heat or cold when you are near your windows. Another drawback is that while they can be painted to accommodate a color change to a home’s exterior, the paint job may not be as natural looking as paint on wood or fiberglass.

Fiberglass — A relative newcomer to the window industry, fiberglass windows are some of the most energy efficient windows, because they do not warp, shrink, swell, rot or corrode in varied climates. Because of their thermal stability, they are excellent for holding large expanses of glass. Fiberglass windows are typically more expensive than aluminum or vinyl.

Vinyl — One of the most popular materials, vinyl windows are durable, generally lower cost, and energy efficient. While they are typically available in a wide variety of light colors, one drawback is they cannot reliably be painted another color if the home’s exterior changes, because paint doesn’t adhere well to the vinyl. Another consideration is climate. In areas of extreme heat, vinyl windows may get soft or sag, compromising the seal between the glass and the frame. Repeated exposure to extremes of heat and cold may cause the windows to become less energy efficient.

Wood — The first material in windows and doors, wood windows are still a wise choice for many homeowners trying to upgrade a home’s original windows with more energy efficient models. Wood windows produce higher R-values, are unaffected by temperature extremes, and are less prone to condensation. Many wood windows feature aluminum or vinyl cladding on the exterior, which reduces external maintenance.

Tips

Different climates require different window technologies and materials for optimal performance. Be sure to check with the experts at your local window store to determine the best options for you.
Read about When to replace windows and The value of ENERGY STAR® designations located in the Timely Tips section of the online Pella Pressroom.
To acquaint yourself with basic window definitions click the Glossary link under Resources in the Pella Pressroom.

Further questions?
Contact your local Pella® Window & Door Showroom or call 888-847-3552 or visit www.pella.com.

*High-altitude Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon.