Pella Pressroom : News Releases

Local program promotes students' interest in engineering

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 02:02:00 -0500

The Partnership for Engineering Educational Resources for Schools (PEERS) invites Iowa students from Jasper, Mahaska and Marion counties in fifth through eighth grades, as well as their parents, to explore the world of engineering by “playing” with robots, touring interactive stations and participating in hands-on activities at the Explore Engineering Event. The free adventure takes place Tues., April 6, from 5:45 – 9:00 p.m. at Pella Corporation’s corporate headquarters at 102 Main Street in Pella, Iowa.

“In Pella Corporation’s third year partnering with Iowa State, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa, we are pleased to welcome 3M to the PEERS event,” said Pella Corporation’s Human Resources Business Partner for Engineering, Andrea Dana. Together, we provide students and adults with fun, engaging opportunities to learn about engineering careers,” she said.

Participants will learn about engineering and technology careers from college students and engineers employed by Pella Corporation and 3M.

“In addition to creating a fun, free evening for families, PEERS’ goal is to help increase enrollment in engineering and manufacturing technology programs at Iowa colleges and universities,” Dana said. “By introducing area youth to college students studying engineering and professionals employed in these fields today, we hope to expand the potential field of qualified engineers and technical professionals in the future.”

Register by e-mail
The free event is open to Iowa students in Marion, Jasper and Mahaska County schools, and to students whose parents work at Pella Corporation or 3M. To register, please send an e-mail to Pella Corporation’s Andrea Dana at peers@pella.com with the following information: student’s name, grade and school; parent’s name, e-mail, phone and home address; and the names of everyone attending the event.

Registration deadline is Fri., March 26, or once the attendance limit of 200 students is reached.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in 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 85-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.

Renovation, replacement abound in commercial construction today

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:39:00 -0500

Pella Commercial kicks off the new decade with a wheelhouse full of tools for the next commercial renovation or new construction project. While at the 2010 National Facilities Management and Technology (NFM&T) trade show in Baltimore, Pella Commercial representatives will demonstrate specific attributes of Pella window replacement systems to make the unique demands of renovation projects a simpler and time-saving process.

“We know the challenges the industry faces, especially during these uncertain economic times,” said Pella Commercial Marketing Manager Terry Zeimetz, AIA, CSI, CCPR. “Pella works with facility owners, architects, and general contractors to help ease that anxiety and develop the window or door solutions that will work simply and easily to meet commercial design and budget objectives whether it’s a historic renovation project or new construction.”

Pella Commercial highlights for 2010 include:

Pella Impervia® expands offering. The Pella Impervia product line — made from a patented fiberglass composite called Duracast®— now includes casement and awning windows and optional high-density foam insulation for added energy savings. This sleek and strong product line earned a 2010 Top Products award from Building Operating Management magazine.
Glass options for energy savings. These new glass options from Pella can help improve energy efficiency. Advanced Low-E insulating glass with argon (1) features a Low-E coating made from two layers of thermal protection for exceptional energy efficiency. SunDefense™ Low-E insulating glass with argon (1) features a unique Low-E coating made from three layers of thermal protection that greatly reduces solar heat gain while maximizing visible light.
Installation options. Pella offers products, installation systems and technical assistance for renovation and new construction projects.

Time-saving window replacement systems. When a complete tear-out of the existing window sash and frame is necessary for historic, aesthetic, or structural considerations, Pella can supply new windows to match the historic windows. In some tear-outs, a receptor and subsill system may be a better solution. If the existing window frames are in good condition and only the sash need to be replaced, pocket windows, frame expander systems, brickmoulds, and subframes may be options.
Welcoming entrances and storefronts. Entrance configurations that combine aluminum-clad wood entrance doors with fixed windows at street level provide infinite design possibilities for creating an inviting and welcoming building entry.
Dramatic window walls. When a project requires the visual impact and energy efficiency of aluminum-clad wood window walls, Pella Commercial has the solution.Pella’s Commercial design team partners with customers in the early stages of a project to develop engineered fenestration solutions that meet performance and load requirements without compromising the design vision. And, beautiful Pella wood window and door interiors provide a unique design aesthetic.
Exterior trim options. Available in a wide variety of standard and custom profiles, Pella’s exterior trim options are designed to complement our wood and aluminum-clad wood product lines. Trim options include materials and profiles appropriate for new construction projects, everyday renovations or detailed historic restorations.

Custom product solutions. Pella offers an array of new custom features and options to meet the needs of your project. Choose from our distinctive shapes, sizes, grille patterns, colors and more.
New prefinished interior stains. For added ease and convenience, both Pella Architect Series®and Designer Series® aluminum-clad wood products are available in factory-stained in a choice of eight prefinished colors. These include: Natural, Golden Oak, Early American, Provincial, Special Walnut, Red Mahogany, Dark Mahogany and Cherry.

Sustainable, safe solutions
Two of Pella’s top wood window performers offer superior energy efficiency and impact-resistant glass for extreme weather conditions. Here are the details:

Pella Designer Series — Rated No. 1 for energy efficiency and noise reduction when compared to top brands with similar glazing, (2) Pella Designer Series aluminum-clad wood windows and doors with double or triple glazing options offer blinds and shades between the panes of glass, protected from dust and damage, reducing lifecycle costs associated with the maintenance and replacement of traditional roomside blinds and shades. Pella Designer Series blinds or shades may be opened or closed to control the flow of light and the window sash may be opened or closed to allow natural ventilation.

With the blinds closed, between-the-glass blinds offer a 43 percent reduction in solar heat gain compared to roomside blinds, reducing potential cooling costs. Recent research found windows with ordinary roomside blinds accumulate 200 times more of certain airborne allergens than Designer Series products with between-the-glass blinds. (3)

Pella Architect Series — Pella Architect Series windows feature extra protection with HurricaneShield® glass. Updated double-hung and single-hung windows allow customers the full extent of impact-resistant protection without sacrificing aesthetics.Eliminating the need for brace clips and other visible reinforcement enables you to enjoy the beauty of the natural wood interiors. HurricaneShield double-hung and single-hung products offer Missile D, Wind Zone 3 performance as the standard.The new design achieves performance ratings of +55/-60 pounds per square foot (psf) in sizes up to 41” w x 84” h, 45” w x 77” h, 48” w x 71” h, 52” w x 65” h and +60/-75 psf on sizes below 33” w x 53” h.

FSC Certified
In 2009, Pella was 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. Steps of the production process – including harvesting, processing, manufacturing and distribution – must be independently verified for adherence to FSC standards. Only products from FSC CoC companies claim the FSC designation – assurance of a socially and environmentally responsible purchasing decision.

New ENERGY STAR® award
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) have awarded Pella Corporation the 2010 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award for continued leadership in protecting the environment through energy efficiency. Pella’s efforts will be recognized March 18 at a Washington, D.C., awards ceremony. Pella — an ENERGY STAR partner in the U.S. since 1999 — will be honored by the EPA and DOE for its long-term commitment to providing energy-efficient products, and its across-the-board integration of ENERGY STAR information into media relations, consumer education programs, advertising, Web sites and training programs.

Providing accessible expertise
Pella's Architectural Support Services of architects, engineers, technicians, and CAD drafters provide expert assistance for facility owners, architects, and general contractors. The team helps develop window and door solutions which range from providing installation designs for window replacement and new construction to field testing assistance that minimizes potential for water and air leakage. In addition, Pella provides an online architectural design manual for easy access to detailed information on Pella products at www.pellaadm.com.

Pella also now offers three-dimensional (3D) window and door models for use in Building Information Modeling (BIM) projects by architects, designers, and others looking for aesthetically correct, easy-to-use, data-rich 3D drawings. Pella’s Autodesk® Revit® families are 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.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction and renovation projects.

1. Optional high-altitude Advanced Low-E insulating glass does not contain argon gas in most products.

2. Pella Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass are #1 for energy efficiency and noise reduction among top national brands with similar glazing, providing superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings.

3. Based on data from research conducted by the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health at The University of Iowa.

Pella, EFCO honored for contributions to industry leadership

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:20:00 -0600

Pella and EFCO team members earned awards for their contributions to the fenestration industry during the 73rd annual American Architectural Manufacturers Association’s (AAMA’s) conference awards banquet held recently in Palm Springs, Calif.

EFCO’s Steven DeSutter earned the 2009 Distinguished Service Award for the Architectural Products Group (APG). DeSutter serves as structural engineering testing and certifications supervisor of EFCO Corporation — a Pella Company headquartered in Monett, Mo., that manufactures commercial building products. The award honors individuals who accomplish formative work on behalf of AAMA and APG.

“Steve generously volunteers his knowledge and his time for the betterment of the organization and the industry,” said Steve Fronek, of Apogee Enterprises, the recipient of the 2008 award.

DeSutter serves on 16 AAMA committees and task groups, serving as chair for two.

Praise for Passion Award
Kathy Krafka Harkema, corporate public relations manager for Pella Corporation, also was honored by AAMA with an achievement award called the “Praise for Passion.” This award recognizes AAMA members who have demonstrated passion for a task, campaign or the betterment of the industry.

“Kathy is a steady source of suggestions and advice for our marketing team,” said Rich Walker, AAMA president and CEO. “She has been a driving force in advocating increased focus on upgrading the features, functionality and content of the AAMA Web site.”

Krafka Harkema leads Pella Corporation’s public relations team as company spokesperson, managing external communication and media relations.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

About EFCO Corporation
EFCO Corporation — a Pella Company headquartered in Monett, Mo. — is a privately held professionally managed company that provides innovative customer solutions to satisfy commercial design challenges from historical replication to cutting-edge new construction. EFCO manufactures architectural windows, curtain walls, storefronts, and entry systems designed for commercial construction needs sold through independent sales representatives across the United States.

EFCO team members are dedicated to supporting the building community with products, services, and programs that promote outstanding commercial design.

Since its introduction of thermally-improved framing and accessories in the 1970s, energy-efficient products have helped set EFCO Corporation apart from other fenestration manufacturers. The company’s environmental commitment continues to thrive through the use of technology to create energy-efficient solutions. EFCO is a proponent of energy conservation and recycling during manufacturing and is committed to environmental leadership by creating and implementing products and processes that will help support a "greener" world. For more information, visit efcocorp.com or call 417-235-3193.

Pella Corporation again wins national energy honor

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:07:00 -0600

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) have awarded Pella Corporation a 2010 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award for continued leadership in protecting the environment through energy efficiency. Pella’s efforts will be recognized March 18 at a Washington, D.C., awards ceremony.

Pella — an ENERGY STAR partner in the U.S. since 1999 — will be honored by the EPA and DOE for its long-term commitment to providing energy-efficient products, and its across-the-board integration of ENERGY STAR information into media relations, consumer education programs, advertising, Web sites and training programs.

“Pella is proud to again be recognized with the highest honor in energy efficiency─the prestigious ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award,” said Elaine Sagers, vice president of marketing for the privately-held company. “This is a credit to Pella team members who create some of the industry’s most stylish, energy-efficient, sustainable windows and doors and our dedicated business partners who educate consumers about them.”

The 2010 Sustained Excellence Awards are given to a select group of organizations that have exhibited outstanding leadership year after year. These winners have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by setting and achieving aggressive goals, employing innovative approaches, and showing others what can be achieved through energy efficiency.

“Pella’s sustainability practices are designed to help lessen our impact on the environment,” said Sandi Robinson, code and integrated marketing manager for Pella. “Recycling and sustainability have been a priority at Pella since our company was founded 85 years ago, that’s why we place so much emphasis on helping consumers make energy-efficient choices for their own homes. In addition to manufacturing energy-efficient products, we’re dedicated to promoting an appreciation for the value of ENERGY STAR-qualified products like Pella Windows and Doors.”

The Sustained Excellence Awards recognize ongoing leadership across the ENERGY STAR program including energy-efficient products, services, and new homes and buildings in the commercial, industrial and public sectors. Award winners are selected from more than 17,000 organizations participating in the ENERGY STAR program.

"EPA is recognizing Pella Corporation with our highest ENERGY STAR award - the 2010 Sustained Excellence Award,” said Gina McCarthy, EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation. “Pella’s continued leadership and commitment to energy efficiency is a testament to what we can accomplish to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our global environment.”

According to the DOE, with the help of ENERGY STAR, Americans saved $17 billion on energy bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 30 million vehicles last year alone.

Save energy, help the environment

Improving energy efficiency is a priority for many environmentally-conscious and budget-minded home and business owners today. Pella products play a key role in conserving energy. For more information on how to save energy when it comes to choosing windows and doors, contact Pella for an in-home consultation by visiting www.pella.com or calling 888-847-3552.

About Pella

Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

About ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as a voluntary market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through increased energy efficiency. Today, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, ENERGY STAR offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions to save energy, money and help protect the environment for future generations. More than 17,000 organizations are ENERGY STAR partners committed to improving the energy efficiency of products, homes, buildings and businesses. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov or call toll-free 1-888-STAR-YES (1-888-782-7937).

Pella's Jarred Roy earns NAHB Remodelers Chairman's Award

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 10:53:00 -0600

Pella Corporation Trade Segment Manager Jarred Roy has earned the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers Chairman’s Award for Outstanding Service.

NAHB Remodelers Chairman Greg Miedema of Dakota Builders in Tucson, Ariz., recognized Roy for his contributions to the organization in 2009.

“We can’t thank Jarred enough for the enthusiasm, creativity and energy he brings to NAHB Remodelers,” Miedema said. “Whether it was challenging our Business Associates committee to recruit new members and sponsors, or creating new opportunities for us to promote to Pella products and services through The Pro Expo™ presented by Pella, or participating in our strategic planning sessions, he’s already carved his own niche and made a great impression on our membership.”

As Pella’s trade segment manager, Roy develops and leads Pella’s trade marketing initiatives on behalf of the company’s branch network system in support of remodeler, builder, contractor and residential architect relationships.

“Pella truly values our strategic partnership with NAHB Remodelers, so it is an honor to earn this prestigious award,” Roy said. “We’re pleased to partner with NAHB Remodelers through The Pro Expo presented by Pella across the U.S. and Canada in 2010, and through the involvement of local Pella representatives in their respective NAHB Remodelers Councils to help strengthen opportunities for those dedicated to the remodeling business,” he said.

About NAHB Remodelers
The NAHB Remodelers represents the interests of more than 14,000 members actively involved in the remodeling industry. The organization is committed to improving the management and technical skills of its remodeler members, promoting excellence in service to consumers and providing effective government representation of remodelers’ interests.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Add new Pella� windows, doors yet keep existing siding

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 01:00:00 -0600

Replacing windows or doors with more energy-efficient options often meant you had to also tear out and shell out more money to replace exterior siding. Even though you might have only replaced a few windows or doors, you often had to replace all of the structure’s exterior siding to maintain a color match to avoid your home or business looking like a patchwork quilt.

Now you can enhance energy efficiency and retain your existing siding, plus more of your hard-earned money, thanks to an innovative new method for installing Pella replacement windows and doors.

Pella Corporation Installation Engineer Tim Heitkamp said Pella’s new method saves time, money and maintains the looks of the structure. “Pella’s new low profile replacement installation process is low-impact to the home or business, since you don’t have to cut back or replace siding as you’re installing new Pella windows and doors. That way you can replace all the windows and doors or once or as many at a time as your budget allows, and the exterior of your home still matches, instead of looking like a series of patches,” he said.

Designed for use with varied siding materials
Pella’s low profile window and door installation method works well for replacing existing units with Pella’s wood, vinyl or fiberglass windows and doors in structures with vinyl, steel, aluminum, wood lap, and cedar shake siding. “Virtually anything with exterior trim or J-channel, (the trim that ties the siding to windows or doors),” Heitkamp said.

Significantly cuts installation time
Pella’s replacement installation process cuts installation time substantially. “For windows that formerly took about from one-and-one-half to three hours to put in with previous construction practices, Pella’s new low profile process typically cuts installation time by as much as 50 percent,” Heitkamp said.

How new replacement process works
So what’s the difference in Pella’s low profile process? In traditional construction replacement methods, exterior siding or trim has to first be cut back or removed. Then installers tear out the old window with nailing fin and install a new window or door with nailing fin, which holds the new window or door in place as the unit is installed. Once that’s completed, siding, J-channel, or trim has to be reapplied or replaced.

“Pella’s low profile process allows the installer to cut out the existing nailing fin, remove the existing window or door, seal the area between the J-channel and or trim , and then install a new, more energy-efficient Pella window or door,” Heitkamp said.

Pella also recommends the use of its SmartFlash® flashing tape as directed in the rough opening to help protect the structure and the unit from water infiltration, and redirect any potential moisture out and around the unit, allowing water to drain.

“With the low profile installation method, once the new Pella window or door is installed in the rough opening and its plumb, level and square, jamb anchors or screws are applied to secure it into the frame. Then backer rod and sealant is placed around the exterior of the opening to help block potential air flow around the unit and to seal out moisture, and Dow® GREAT STUFF™ Window & Door foam sealant is applied at the interior to help reduce air and moisture infiltration, while providing insulating properties,” he explained.

SmartFlash tape another Pella innovation
Pella’s installation method allows moisture to flow out and away from windows and doors, rather than remain trapped. “

Heitkamp said Pella’s SmartFlash installation tape is bendable and pliable allowing installers to easily shape and tear it to needed lengths. “The pliability and flexibility of SmartFlash tape allows installers to extend the construction season, since it adheres even in cold weather, unlike traditional flashing tapes. Plus, when you’re up on a ladder installing windows, it’s easier to simply tear the tape rather than to reach into your tool belt and grab a utility knife,” he said.

Pella SmartFlash tape is available in three and six inch widths from local Pella Window & Door representatives, as well as at select Menards® and Lowe’s® stores.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella is known for its 85-year history of making innovative products, providing quality service and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship to create satisfied customers.

Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

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

Register now for The Pro Expo™ presented by Pella

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:00:00 -0600

Events across the U.S. and Canada in 2010 will help those in the design, building and remodeling industries build their business skills and help feed the hungry.

U.S. and Canadian sports venues will spring into action Feb. 2 through May 13 as The Pro Expo presented by Pella takes place in 30 cities. During the free events, attendees can obtain continuing education credits, learn about the latest products, services and tips to help build their business and support local food banks in partnership with The Salvation Army.

“Pella is known for providing outstanding windows, doors and service, and these events are intended to provide design, building and remodeling industry professionals with the tools they need to help grow their business in this challenging economy,” said Pella Corporation Trade Segment Manager Jarred Roy.

The events will also offer those in need. “We recognize that it’s been a tough year for many people economically, and that’s why we’re partnering with The Salvation Army and asking attendees to donate non-perishable food items to be collected at each event,” Roy said. “We’re expecting an ‘army’ of attendees and we hope that together we can help secure plenty of food to be donated to local food banks through The Salvation Army to help feed the respective area’s hungry,” he said.

Events will be held every Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 2 through May 13, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Leading brands like Kohler®, James Hardie®, Schluter Systems®, AZEK®, DuPont® and Contractors.com will join Pella® Windows and Doors in showcasing products, services and the latest building practices.

Training and educational credits will be offered in partnership with the National Association of The Remodeling Industry (NARI®), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and American Institute of Architects (AIA). Sessions presented by Pella and industry partners will cover proper window installation, marketing ideas, construction tips, trends, and “green” building.

A Case® Design/Remodeling, Inc. representative will present the keynote address at each event on “The Future of Remodeling.”

Sessions will be held in notable stadiums like Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Soldier Field in Chicago, Gillette Stadium in Boston, Chase Field in Phoenix and more.

Preregister now
Attendees are asked to preregister online at THEPROEXPO.com or by calling 888-644-EXPO (3976).

Vendors interested in learning more about possible participation in The Pro Expo may contact Jarred Roy by e-mail at royjc@pella.com.

About The Pro Expo™ presented by Pella
Designed to provide educational opportunities and helpful information for design, building and remodeling industry professionals and students, The Pro Expo presented by Pella 2010 participants will include:

Brands/businesses

Contractors.com
James Hardie®
Kohler® and Sterling®
Schluter Systems®
Thermador® / Bosch®
Sprint®
Henkel/OSI®
DuPont®
AZEK® Building Products
Rocky Mountain Hardware®
Silestone® by Cosentino
Ferguson®
Roxul, Inc.®
USG Corp.
Sherwin-Williams®
Designer Doors™
Lutron® Electronics, Inc.
MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.
The Dow Chemical Company®
Wellborn Cabinets, Inc.®
Pella® Windows and Doors
Case® Institute of Remodeling

Associations

National Association of The Remodeling Industry (NARI)
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Industry media

Cygnus Business Publications
Hanley Wood
Reed Publishing

Non-profit charitable organization

The Salvation Army

Events will be held:

Feb. 2 — Denver, Coors Field
Feb. 4 — Salt Lake City, Energy Solutions Arena
Feb. 9 — San Diego, Qualcomm Stadium
Feb. 11 — Phoenix, Chase Field
Feb. 16 — Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium
Feb. 18 — San Francisco, AT&T Park
Feb. 23 — Nashville, Tenn., LP Field
Feb. 25 — Green Bay, Wis., Lambeau Field
March 2 — Des Moines, Iowa, Iowa Events Center
March 4 — Atlanta, Turner Field
March 9 — Charlotte, N.C., Bank of America Stadium
March 11 — West Caldwell, N.J., Atlantic Health Jets Training Center
March 16 — Richmond, Va., Richmond Int’l Raceway
March 18 — Chicago, Soldier Field
March 23 — New York City, Citi Field
March 25 — Boston, Gillette Stadium
March 30 — Philadelphia, Citizens Bank Park
April 1 — Kansas City, Mo., Kauffman Stadium
April 6 — Pittsburgh, PNC Park
April 8 — Grand Rapids, Mich., Van Andel Arena
April 13 — Milwaukee, Miller Park
April 15 — Minneapolis, Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
April 20 — Columbus, Ohio, Schottenstein Center
April 22 — St. Louis, Busch Stadium
April 27 — Cincinnati, Ohio, Great American Ball Park
April 29 — Cleveland, Ohio, Cleveland Browns Stadium
May 4 — Toronto, Ontario (Canada), Rogers Centre
May 6 — Detroit, Ford Field
May 11 — Seattle, Safeco Field
May 13 — Portland, Ore., Oregon Convention Center

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in 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 85-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.

Color-matched exterior sealant enhances, protects buildings

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:00:00 -0600

Today’s homes and businesses often radiate with color ─ inside and out. Contrasting or coordinating exterior siding and trim can bring out a home’s curb appeal just like picture frames and mats accentuate the artwork inside. And now it’s easier to help accent and protect a home at the same time, thanks to new OSI® QUAD® Color Match Sealants designed to complement the exterior colors of Pella windows and doors.

Pella Corporation Installation Engineer Tim Heitkamp said that the new sealants help take the guesswork out of choosing options that are compatible with Pella products.”With so much color and so many different types of materials used on the exterior of homes and businesses in windows, doors, siding and trim, it’s often hard to find the right type and color of sealant to match,” he said. “That’s why Pella’s now offering OSI QUAD sealants to make it easy to achieve a match in terms of color and material to seal around your Pella windows and doors.”

The paintable tri-polymer sealant can be easily applied around the exterior of Pella windows and doors, providing protection from the elements and a seamless look, Heitkamp said. And it’s compatible with wood, fiberglass and vinyl Pella products. OSI QUAD Color Match Sealant colors complement Pella’s standard and feature EnduraClad® exterior colors, and can even be ordered to match custom Pella exterior colors.

OSI QUAD sealant can be applied when Pella windows and doors are first installed, or as part of regular maintenance after existing caulk around the perimeter has first been removed.

For more information or to order OSI sealant for use with Pella windows and doors, contact your nearest Pella representative.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

Pella manufactures quality windows and doors 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.

Jim Meyer leads Pella Corp's Engineered Technologies Division

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:06:00 -0600

A 23-year leader with Pella Corporation, Jim Meyer, has been named to succeed Mark Hinkie as president and chief operating officer (COO) of Pella Corporation’s Engineered Technologies Division (ETD), effective Jan. 1.

Meyer’s Pella Corporation career began as a department manager and has spanned management of numerous manufacturing sites and Pella® Window and Door products in Pella and Shenandoah, Iowa; Murray, Ky.; and Portland, Ore. Most recently the vice president of Pella’s fiberglass and vinyl operations, Meyer will relocate from Kentucky to Pella, Iowa, as he takes on the new role.

“Jim Meyer will do an outstanding job in leading our fiberglass and vinyl materials teams driving even greater innovation in our advanced technologies,” said Pella Corporation president and CEO Pat Meyer (no relation to Jim Meyer). “Jim’s vision and extensive experience in all aspects of manufacturing will serve our customers and our team members well in driving even greater value, innovation and customer satisfaction in the process.”

Jim Meyer succeeds Mark Hinkie, who will retire Dec. 31, with 26 years of service. “Mark Hinkie helped launch many of the successful product lines and distribution channels that Pella customers enjoy today. He played a prominent role in introducing and expanding the concept of today’s Pella Window and Door Showrooms that serve customers across the U.S. and Canada, and Mark built Pella’s retail presence in big-box stores as our first vice president of National Accounts,” Pat Meyer said. “Mark’s expertise in leading Pella’s Entry Systems Division as its former president and COO was also instrumental in the tremendous growth of that product line today. During the last seven years, Mark led Pella’s successful national expansion into vinyl window and patio doors as president and chief operating officer of Pella’s Vinyl Division and later as president and chief operating officer of the Engineered Technologies Division. We thank Mark for the tremendous leadership he provided throughout his Pella career and we wish him the best as he enjoys retirement.”

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

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

Corporate responsibility, sustainability part of culture at Pella�

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:08:00 -0600

Pella Corporation may be best known for its windows and doors, but it’s also recognized for its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. As an environmental stewardship pioneer, Pella’s focus remains on minimizing waste in its processes and reusing or recycling by-products generated in the manufacturing of its windows and doors. The company separates scrap materials like glass, paper, plastics, cardboard, wood, vinyl, metal, sawdust, and screen cloth destined for recycling. Plus with the company’s just-in-time energy savings program adopted by its corporate headquarters and manufacturing facilities, Pella has reduced its carbon footprint by about 4,000 tons in 2009.

Quote:
“Minimizing waste in the workplace and using resources responsibly is the right and responsible thing to do for successful companies now and in the future,” according to Jim Nieboer, Pella corporate environmental manager. “I am confident Pella’s sustainability efforts have made a difference in the communities in which we operate.”

History speaks for itself:

1925 – Pella began recycling steel and aluminum in the company’s first year in business.
1983 – The company started recycling glass, sawdust, paper, cardboard and some plastics.
2000 – Pella began recycling electronics and reinforced its commitment to utilizing third-party certified wood.

At the end of the day:
Sustainability efforts are driven by the desire to make the world a better place to live. According to new research conducted by Pella Corporation, many Americans embrace that attitude and would like to create a beautiful view from their own home. About 66 percent of homeowners would love to gaze out at a view like mountains, woods or the ocean. Meanwhile, one in five (20 percent) of homeowners say their own backyard would be their favorite view.

About the Jim Nieboer, corporate environmental manager, video:

Sustainability is mimicking in an industrial setting what is happening in nature.
The key to recycling is to keep it convenient and carve out space in the workplace to make it easy to segregate materials.
Pella is looking at technology on the horizon to operate in an even more responsible and efficient manner.

About Pella’s research:

The Pella Home Improvement Survey was conducted by Kelton Research Nov. 10-17, 2009, using an e-mail invitation and online survey.
Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 4 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Pella Corporation:
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella is known for its 84-year history of making innovative products, providing quality service and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship to create satisfied customers.
Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

Energy savings still top priority for homeowners

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:14:00 -0600

Saving energy remains on the front burner for many Americans as economic concerns spill over into 2010. New research from Pella Corporation finds a conservation mindset among many Americans when it comes to making product decisions for their home, with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR program being a motivating factor. A majority of Americans surveyed (83 percent) said they plan to incorporate ENERGY STAR products into their homes: nearly three in five (56 percent) use ENERGY STAR, whenever possible, and another 27 percent said they plan to select these products when the time comes to make home improvements or renovations.

Another factor motivating homeowners is federal tax credits available for window and door replacements. In all, 70 percent of homeowners said it’s important for them to qualify for tax credits by purchasing energy efficient home improvements before the year-end 2010 deadline. Many Pella windows and doors qualify for the ENERGY STAR and meet performance guidelines for tax credits as well. See www.pella.com for a list of products qualifying for U.S. tax credits.

Quote:
“Using energy wisely helps the environment, and choosing energy-efficient Pella windows and doors that qualify for U.S. tax credits help you save at tax time and on your monthly utility bills,” said Kathy Krafka Harkema, spokesperson, Pella Corporation. “Beautiful new double or triple-pane windows and doors from Pella can help keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, providing year-round comfort.”

Energy-saving tips:

Keep windows locked when not in use for letting in fresh air to help seal out the elements.
Use appliances wisely — when possible, avoid running appliances during peak demand hours — from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., to help reduce the potential for electrical system overload and outages.
Install energy-saver showerheads to help save electricity and water.
Install an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat — you can save up to 3 percent of your electricity use by automatically adjusting heating and cooling levels in your home to your preset preferences, even while you’re away.

About the energy efficiency video:

Pella CEO Pat Meyer on the importance of energy-efficient windows
Save your energy: Pella spokesperson Kathy Krafka Harkema on the added value of prefinished products

About Pella’s research:

The Pella Home Improvement Survey was conducted by Kelton Research Nov. 10-Nov. 17, 2009, using an e-mail invitation and online survey.
Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 4 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Design trends for 2010 highlight desire to improve

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 08:35:00 -0600

What does the dawn of a new decade have in store for homeowners looking for new ideas? Color forecasters say the hot colors for 2010 include bright or warm yellows, lavenders — particularly for bedrooms, and slate or charcoal grays to replace tan and beige tones as popular neutrals.

Beyond the cosmetics of color, a new study from Pella Corporation finds plenty of items in homes across the country calling for urgent attention. According to a recent survey conducted for Pella by Kelton Research, almost two-thirds (66 percent) of homeowners in the U.S. admit they have a major item in their home that needs some type of maintenance. In fact, the average person has five major items that need to be repaired or replaced.

Whether it’s new carpet or flooring, a refreshed landscape or updating the kitchen counters or cabinets, change is in the air. A majority (61 percent) of American homeowners plan to make some type of improvement to increase the curb appeal of their home.

Design on a dime:

About three in ten (27 percent) of those planning to make home improvements in 2010 intend on simultaneously enhancing the inside and outside of the home by installing new windows.
The most common home improvement for 2010 may be installing new carpet or flooring (48 percent), followed closely by updating the exterior of the house with new paint or siding (43 percent).
Homeowners in the Midwest (44 percent) and South (38 percent) are more likely than those in the Northeast (25 percent) and West (30 percent) to roll up their sleeves and do the improvements themselves.

Quote:
“While popular design trends like colors, patterns and fabrics may come and go, one thing remains constant in home decorating,” said Elaine Sagers, vice president, marketing and customer support. “That is the desire to have a warm, inviting and comfortable home with plenty of natural light to create a better view. We are naturally drawn to sunlight and that’s an important element in any new home or home makeover.”

About the Elaine Sagers, vice president, marketing and customer support, video:

Given today’s economic conditions, we’re sometimes seeing a smaller footprint in the size of a home, but increased amenities.
Consumers are paying particular attention to design elements.
Learn how to make your home more inviting.

About Pella’s research:

The Pella Home Improvement Survey was conducted by Kelton Research Nov. 10-17, 2009, using an e-mail invitation and online survey.
Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 4 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

2010 likely to nail more home improvements

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:00:00 -0600

Spruce up and stay put will likely be the mantra for homeowners in the New Year, according to a new study from Pella Corporation. Nearly two-thirds of Americans plan to update their home in 2010, with the most common home improvement likely to be installing new carpet or flooring and updating the house with fresh paint or new siding being a close second.

Home stretch facts:

Many will save and do it themselves. Most homeowners (38 percent) indicated they plan to save money to make home upgrades and 36 percent plan to do the work themselves to save.
Few plan to move or build. Six percent of those surveyed by Pella intend to move to a different home that doesn’t require improvements and four percent intend to build their dream home any time soon.
Inside and outside are important. Nearly three in 10 (27 percent) plan to make an improvement that will better the interior and exterior of their home simultaneously, by installing new windows or doors.

Quote:
“Given the economy, it’s no wonder people are choosing to improve their property and many are choosing to do the work themselves,” said Cordell Burton, Pella product qualification manager. “As the DIY trend continues and as more consumers consider replacing windows or doors, it is important to understand that proper installation of a window or door is essential to the product’s performance.”

Installation facts:

Incorrectly installed windows will not perform effectively or last as long.
Think of a house as a big solid box. Any time a hole is cut in that box for vents, exhaust fans, pipes, wires, doors and windows, there is risk of letting something out or inviting something in – like wind, rain or snow.
That is why proper installation of a window or door is critical.

About the Cordell Burton, product qualification manager, video:

Burton has over 10 years experience engineering Pella products.
Environmental factors like air and water can impact window and door performance.
While how a window is built is important, how it is installed is key for maximum performance.

About Pella’s research:

The Pella Home Improvement Survey was conducted by Kelton Research Nov. 10-17, 2009, using an e-mail invitation and online survey.
Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 4 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

More Americans embracing environmental responsibility

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:30:00 -0600

Americans are now embracing a commitment to environmental responsibility in their daily routine, according to new research conducted by Pella Corporation. Of those surveyed, a majority of homeowners (83 percent) say ENERGY STAR® products are something they look to incorporate into their home and most (seven in 10) say it’s important for them to qualify for federal tax credits on their energy-saving home improvements. Plus, of the nearly 600 people surveyed, 84 percent say they help create a “better view” in their communities through local involvement. Recycling, donating items to charities or planting trees are among the most popular examples of a renewed environmental commitment to sustainability.

Quote:
“It’s a sign of the times,” according to Jim Nieboer, Pella corporate environmental manager. “What we’re seeing is that people are taking environmental responsibility to heart and doing what they can in their everyday lives to conserve, improve and live with an energy-conscious mindset.”

Progress:
Pella Corporation has had a history of environmental stewardship since its founding in 1925. The many strides the company has made at its headquarters in Pella, Iowa, include recycling of scrap materials like glass, wood and sawdust; even screen materials are recyclable. Here are a few of the facts:

Just-in-time energy savings adopted by Pella’s corporate headquarters and manufacturing facilities has allowed the company to reduce its carbon footprint by about 4,000 tons in 2009.
By-products from Pella’s manufacturing processes are recycled into materials like pet bedding, reflective coating for highways and archery targets.
Pella conducts community-wide e-cycling days each year honoring Earth Day. 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.

About the Jim Nieboer, corporate environmental manager, video:

A detailed explanation of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody (CoC) Certification and what it means for future generations
Responsibly managed forests and the impact
Retaining the balance of our eco-system

About Pella’s research:

The Pella Home Improvement Survey was conducted by Kelton Research Nov. 10-17, 2009, using an e-mail invitation and online survey.
Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 4 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to feature Pella� products

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 04:43:00 -0600

The Sunday, Dec. 6, episode of ABC television network’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" (EMHE) will include energy-efficient windows and doors windows donated by Pella Windows & Doors. The episode will air at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on ABC-TV.

The makeover near Woodlawn, Tenn. in Montgomery county marks the 24th appearance of Pella products to help complete the new home construction for a deserving family featured in the series. The new Cape Cod style home will feature sustainable, low-maintenance ThermaStar by Pella® vinyl windows, 850 Series® patio doors made In Pella, Iowa, and a prefinished Pella fiberglass entry door with decorative grilles made in Fairfield, Ohio.

The Pella manufacturing team in Murray, Ky., crafted the windows and assisted members of Pella's National Accounts, Public Relations and Engineering teams with installation.

“Dedicated Pella installers were pleased to team up with ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ to create better views for this deserving Tennessee family,” said Kathy Krafka Harkema, Pella Corporation spokesperson. “The beautiful vinyl windows, fiberglass entry doors and wood patio doors created and expertly installed by Pella make them a natural fit for these inspiring, fast-paced projects.”

Each episode features a race against time on a project that would normally take at least four months to achieve, involving designers, contractors and several hundred workers who have just seven days to build an entire house plus the exterior and landscaping. Viewers see the transformation of the home and the reactions and emotions of the deserving homeowners.

Previous episodes
Pella products were included on 23 previous episodes of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” providing new or renovated homes for deserving families in Suffield, Ct., Albert Lea, Minn.; Geneva, N.Y.; Fairmont, W. Va.; the California cities of Los Angeles, Martinez and Penngrove; and the New Jersey cities of Bergenfield and Irvington. In addition, Pella has provided windows and doors for homes featured on the show in Billings, Mont.; Alma, Ark.; near New Orleans, La.; St. Petersburg, Fla.; Clarksville, Tenn.; Bountiful, Utah; Purdy, Mo.; Biloxi, Miss.; Berry, Ky.; Minot, N.D.; Gladbrook, Iowa; Kansas City, Mo.; Las Vegas, Nev.; and Albany, N.Y.

About “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," in its 7th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It’s executive- produced by Anthony Dominici. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. The show airs Sundays from 8-9 p.m. ET on ABC.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in 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 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's shades of green on display at Greenbuild 2009

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:50:00 -0600

As part of Greenbuild 2009, Pella® Windows and Doors contributed to a Habitat for Humanity project to build a net-zero energy home in Phoenix. In spite of scorching desert temperatures, the net-zero energy home is designed to consume the same amount of energy that it produces on a yearly basis. Design considerations like insulation and air-tightness of exterior walls and windows, plus the efficiency of household appliances and the use of solar power help drive energy conservation.

The Pella Window & Door Store in Tempe donated and installed ENERGY STAR®-rated Pella Impervia® windows, a sliding patio door plus a fiberglass entry door.

The home is Platinum level LEED® certified and ENERGY STAR qualified.

Made with Duracast® — Pella’s patented five-layer, engineered fiberglass composite — energy-efficient Impervia windows and doors can withstand the forces of Mother Nature without cracking, shrinking or warping in extreme weather conditions.

Greenbuild International Conference and Expo Nov. 11 – 13, promotes sustainable building practices and will offer a tour of the Habitat for Humanity home and others Sat., Nov. 14, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pella’s Greenbuild booth #930 is on the second floor of the 500 Mile Pavilion in Phoenix.

About the Habitat for Humanity net-zero energy home

About Pella’s sustainability initiatives

Pella earned the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody (CoC) Certification.

Pella’s ‘green evolution’ began in 1925 with a steel and aluminum-recycling program. Today, Pella’s environmental stewardship thrives.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications. Pella is known for its 84-year history of making innovative products, providing quality service and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship to create satisfied customers. Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.
Pella manufactures quality windows and doors 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.

Pella Corporation awarded well workplace distinction

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 03:14:00 -0600

The Wellness Council of Iowa (WCI) presented Pella Corporation and 13 other Iowa organizations with Well Workplace Award status. “This is a record for the state of Iowa and demonstrates a continued expansion of public interest and commitment to health and wellbeing,” said Jenny Weber, executive director of WCI, the Iowa affiliate of the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA).

“Pella Corporation is honored to earn this recognition from the Wellness Council of Iowa,” said Lisa Winn, Pella’s wellness coordinator. “This award recognizes our progress in offering and involving our team members in a comprehensive wellness program.”

The Well Workplace awards, presented by Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, recognize companies that have implemented and demonstrated measurable success in employee wellness programming. Areas of focus include smoking cessation, nutrition, physical fitness, self-care and stress management. WCI has been recognizing and fostering sustainable wellness in Iowa for more than 15 years. Awards are designated in bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels.

The Healthy Iowa Awards were sponsored by United Healthcare, Wellness Council of Iowa, Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Nutrition, Des Moines University, Farm Bureau, Iowa Foundation for Medical Care, Iowa Department of Public Health and Iowa Health System.

WCI is a non-profit, membership-driven organization based in Des Moines, Iowa. As a result of this year's recognition, nearly 1.4 percent of Iowa's entire population is now employed in a Well Workplace. This is nearly 2.4 percent of Iowa's total labor force. Visit www.wellnessiowa.org to learn more or to become a member.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella is known for its 84-year history of making innovative products, providing quality service and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship to create satisfied customers. Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to feature Pella� products

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 04:21:00 -0500

The Sunday, Oct. 11, episode of ABC television network’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will include Pella products donated by Pella Windows & Doors, Greenfield, Mass. The episode will air at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on ABC-TV.

The makeover in Suffield, Conn., marks the 23rd appearance of Pella products to help complete the new construction of a home for a deserving family featured in the series. Pella Architect Series® doors and ProLine® windows were included in the New England-style home built for this episode.

“The Pella team was honored to team with ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ to create better views for this deserving family,’” said Al Herringshaw, General Manager of Pella’s Greenfield, Mass., branch. “The windows and doors and the skilled expertise of the team make Pella a natural fit for these unique projects. We thank our Pella system team members who made this special project a reality.”

Each episode features a race against time on a project that would normally take at least four months to achieve, involving a team of designers, contractors and several hundred workers who have just seven days to build an entire house plus the exterior and landscaping. Viewers see the transformation of the home and the reactions and emotions of the deserving homeowners.

Past episodes
Pella products were included on 22 previous episodes of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” providing new or renovated homes for deserving families in Albert Lea, Minn., Geneva, N.Y.; Fairmont, W. Va.; the California cities of Los Angeles, Martinez and Penngrove; and the New Jersey cities of Bergenfield and Irvington. In addition, Pella has provided windows and doors for homes featured on the show in Billings, Mont.; Alma, Ark.; near New Orleans, La.; St. Petersburg, Fla.; Clarksville, Tenn.; Bountiful, Utah; Purdy, Mo.; Biloxi, Miss.; Berry, Ky.; Minot, N.D.; Gladbrook, Iowa; Kansas City, Mo.; Las Vegas, Nev.; and Albany, N.Y.

About “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," in its 7th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It¹s executive-produced by Anthony Dominici. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. The show airs Sundays from 8-9 p.m. ET on ABC.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella Corporation earns FSC certification

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:32:00 -0500

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.

“Pella’s roots in environmental stewardship trace back to 1925, when the company was founded and launched its first recycling program,” said Jim Nieboer, champion of Pella’s environmental efforts. “Now with the widely- recognized FSC CoC certification, we can offer Pella® customers the option of windows and doors made from pine certified to have been harvested from well-managed forests.”

FSC standards
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. Steps of the production process – including harvesting, processing, manufacturing and distribution – must be independently verified for adherence to FSC standards. Only products from FSC CoC companies claim the FSC designation – assurance of a socially and environmentally responsible purchasing decision.

Offering FSC CoC certified products is one of many ways Pella’s windows and doors can help contribute toward earning points in the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED®) Green Building Rating System. Pella Corporation’s FSC certification number is SCS-COC-002711.

About the Forest Stewardship Council
The Forest Stewardship Council is an international organization that promotes environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world's forests. www.fsc.org.

About Scientific Certification Systems
SCS is an independent third-party certifier of environmental, sustainability, food quality and food purity claims. Over two decades, SCS has developed internationally recognized standards and certification programs aimed at spurring the highest level of environmental improvements, social accountability and product performance. Its programs span a wide cross-section of the economy, recognizing accomplishments in the fields of green building, product manufacturing, forestry, retail, agricultural production, fisheries, energy, and food processing and handling. For more information about SCS, visit www.scscertified.com or call 510-452-8000.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

Prevention key to helping protect loved ones, reducing risk of fire

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:47:00 -0500

As temperatures drop and families spend more time in-doors, statistics prove that there is an increase in home fires, with December and January being the peak months. In 2008, 3,320 fire fatalities were reported in the U.S., and most deaths — 83 percent — occurred in homes, according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).

As Fire Prevention Week, observed October 4-10, and the winter months approach, Pella Corporation’s Close the door on fire! campaign encourages homeowners to think about fire safety and take the proper steps now to help protect their loved ones year-round.

Stay warm! Stay safe!
Space heater usage can help you stay warm, but can increase the risk of fire if not used properly. Space heater fires in homes are often more deadly than other types of heating fires according to U.S. Fire Administration and are the leading cause of fires in winter months. They account for only 10 percent of all heating fires, but nearly 40 percent of heating injuries and deaths.

So how do you safely use space heaters? It’s important to ensure space heaters have space. Pella reminds homeowners to keep them at least three feet from paper, curtains, furniture, clothing, bedding or anything else that can burn. For safety’s sake, never leave space heaters on while not in the room, and turn them off before turning in for the night or a nap.

“Help protect your family’s safety by taking the proper fire safety steps like planning and practicing a home fire escape plan with your loved ones, testing exit windows and doors to make sure they open quickly and easily in an emergency, and replacing worn out batteries in smoke detectors,” said Kathy Krafka Harkema, Pella fire safety educator.

In addition to space heater usage pointers, Pella offers these fire safety tips to help protect your loved ones.

Identify! Prepare! Practice!
• Evaluate fire safety risks inside your home and immediate surroundings. Equip your garage with smoke detectors since garage fires can start easily and spread quickly. Also, properly extinguish fire in indoor fireplaces or outdoor settings to prevent the risk of fire spreading around your home or others in the neighborhood.
• Identify two exits - Designate two exits from every room in your home — a door and a window. Make sure doors and windows open quickly and easily to help ensure a quick exit; if not, consider replacing them for safety’s sake.
• Have a plan - Download an escape grid and draw a floor plan of each level of your home. Before an emergency strikes, establish and communicate a meeting place a safe distance outside your home for everyone to gather in the event of a fire.
• Check the alarms - Install working smoke alarms in or near every sleeping area and on every level of your home. Test alarms monthly, change batteries regularly, and replace alarms not permanently wired into your home’s electrical system every 10 years.
• Make smart purchases – Consider keeping items like fire extinguishers and fire escape ladders in your home. Mark their location on your home fire plan and share this information with those in your home.
• Test the alarm - Sound smoke alarms when household members are awake so everyone knows what they sound like, and test your family’s ability to awaken to fire alarms during sleeping hours. If they don’t awake easily, assign someone to awaken sound sleepers in the event of an emergency.
• Practice makes perfect - Practice your home fire escape plan with everyone in your home at least twice a year.

Helpful tools
• Downloadable escape grid
• Additional helpful fire safety tips

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

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 Corporation ranks highest in customer satisfaction

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:51:00 -0500

Pella Corporation has 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.

“We are truly honored that again for the third straight year and continually since the award’s inception, consumers recognize Pella’s industry-leading focus on providing superior windows and outstanding service,” said Elaine Sagers, Pella vice president of marketing and customer satisfaction. “The J.D. Power and Associates award is a direct reflection of the dedicated efforts of the Pella system, together with our valued business partners, to create a better view for our customers.”

About the J.D. Power and Associates study
In the independently conducted study by J.D. Power and Associates, consumers were asked to evaluate window brands on product and service attributes. Survey topics included operational performance and features, appearance and design features, ordering and delivery, warranty and replacement, price competitiveness, installation service, overall experience, problem occurrence, and loyalty.

In the study, Pella performs particularly well in three of seven factors: operational performance; product quality/durability; and appearance and design.

The 2009 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 2,856 consumers who purchased new windows or patio doors in the previous 12 months. Eight brands were rated in the study. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in March and April 2009. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

ENERGY STAR® Partner
Earlier this year, Pella also earned the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award for windows for the third consecutive year, recognized as an ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence winner for the company’s leadership in manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

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.

About J.D. Power and Associates
Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, Web intelligence and customer satisfaction. The company’s quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information please visit jdpower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

Pella Corporation announces Truckload Carrier of Year Awards

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 07:00:00 -0500

Pella Corporation, together with Ryder System, Inc., its third-party logistics provider, has announced their 2008 Truckload Carrier of the Year Awards. Carriers were honored for their performance in safely and efficiently transporting Pella Windows & Doors and materials used by the privately-held, family-owned company headquartered in Pella, Iowa, serving customers throughout North America. Carriers honored include:

Northeast - Heartland Express, North Liberty, Iowa
Southeast - Arnold Transportation Services, Jacksonville, Fla.
Central States - Rudolph Freight Systems, Murray, Ky.
Midwest - Stan Koch & Sons Trucking, Minneapolis, Minn.
Overall Carrier of the Year – Stan Koch & Sons Trucking, Minneapolis, Minn.

“Each week, truckloads of Pella Windows and Doors swiftly move over the road to meet the new construction, remodeling and replacement needs of residential and commercial projects,” said Steve Bowers, Pella corporate logistics manager. “Pella is known for delivering customer satisfaction. That’s why Pella is pleased to honor these carriers for their dedication in efficiently transporting Pella Windows and Doors to our customers,” he said.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella Corporation is a member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Transport Partnership program. Pella received the accreditation for its responsible management of transportation partners and private fleet and committing to improve the environmental performance of freight operations. Pella also earned the ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award for manufacturing energy-efficient windows and educating consumers about them.

About Ryder System
Ryder provides leading-edge transportation, logistics and supply chain management solutions worldwide. Ryder’s stock (NYSE: R) is a component of the Dow Jones Transportation Average and the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index. Ryder ranks 371st on the Fortune 500 and 1,631st on the Forbes Global 2000. For more information on Ryder System, Inc., visit ryder.com.

Mini-marathon Aug. 8 in Knoxville raises dollars for scholars

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 04:17:00 -0500

Sprint cars won’t be the only thing running in Knoxville, Iowa, Aug. 8, as the local Dollars for Scholars chapter revs up a 1/3 marathon. Open to runners and walkers, the event roars into action at 8:00 a.m. at Knoxville’s Auld Park on Second Street. For the second time, Pella Corporation’s Rolscreen Foundation is presenting the event, in cooperation with sponsors Knoxville Raceway, Marion County 4-H and volunteers from the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce and Knoxville Dollars for Scholars.

“Race fans and area residents are invited to take in the scenery of Knoxville on foot while getting a great workout and raising money for scholarships through this exciting event that will be held rain or shine,” said Knoxville Dollars for Scholars board member Jarred Roy, of Pella Corporation.

The 2007 Knoxville Raceway 410 Division track champion, “Blackjack” Brian Brown, of Grain Valley, Mo., will wave the green flag to start the fun and to cheer participants on to victory, sign autographs, and pose for pictures in the winner’s circle at Auld Park.

Music motive participants along the route and face painting will await those upon their return. The mini-marathon will include jaunts through Knoxville Raceway, and the Marion County Park, packed with race fans camped Knoxville for the 19th Annual Advance Auto Parts 360 Nationals Aug. 6-8, and the 49th Annual Superclean Knoxville Nationals, presented by Lucas Oil Aug.12-15.

How to register
For those who register by August 3, the entry fee is $33 for the 1/3 marathon, spanning 8.73 miles, or $18 for the 4-K event supported by Marion County 4-H. Entries after that point increase to $40 for the mini-marathon and $25 for the 4-K. Registered participants receive a commemorative event shirt, a runner’s bag with a Pella® Windows & Doors water bottle, an energy drink from Pella Corporation, a Sterling Physical Therapy gift pack, and snacks courtesy of the Knoxville Hy-Vee® Food Store, while supplies last

In true racing fashion, the top three finishers in each respective age division will be recognized, and get a chance to pose on camera in victory lane with racing champions in front of a Knoxville checkered flag.

Last year’s event attracted about 400 participants. Event planners are expecting even more men, women and children to blaze the trail this year. “Our goal is to raise $7,500 to award scholarships to 15 deserving Knoxville High School Seniors in 2010,” Roy said. “We encourage runners and walkers to register online, by mail, or to stop in at the Red Rock Cultural Center 116 N. Second in Knoxville the evening of August 7 to preregister.”

For more information on the event, or to preregister online visit www.khsdfs.org, or contact Joe Cunningham at Iowa State Savings Bank in Knoxville at joec@issbank.com, or call 641-820-0283. Entries may be mailed to along with checks payable to: Knoxville Dollars for Scholars, Attn. Joe Cunningham, P.O. Box 438, Knoxville, IA 50138.

About Knoxville Dollars for Scholars
The Knoxville Dollars for Scholars chapter was established in 2003 to encourage post-high school education by providing scholarships to graduating Knoxville High School Seniors. The Knoxville chapter is an affiliate of the Citizen's Scholarship Foundation of America, a national, non-profit student and service organization.

About the Pella Rolscreen Foundation
The Pella Rolscreen Foundation contributes to the civic, cultural, educational, social and physical environment of the areas in which Pella Corporation team members reside through gifts to qualifying active, nonprofit, charitable organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as 501(c) (3) organizations whose purpose coincides with this goal.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in 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 83-year history of innovation, making great 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.

The company 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®, which features the Pella Design Center, a “store-within-a-store.” For more information, call 888-84-PELLA or visit www.pella.com. Follow Pella on Twitter.com @Pella_News.

Solutions to save time and money

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 02:20:00 -0500

In an era of consumers crunched for time, Pella Windows & Doors brings beautiful time- and cost-saving solutions to the table. More convenient pre-finished options are now available from Pella, including its wood entry doors, for builders, homeowners, remodelers and business owners. The factory-applied stained finish, covering the door’s interior and exterior, saves time and money by eliminating the hassle of traditional on-the-job staining and finishing steps, applying a consistent look to both sides of the door.

“Offering a factory pre-finished entry door is another time-saving step on the job site that adds value for the builder, contractor or remodeler,” said market development manager, Alan Lockcuff, of Pella’s Heritage Division. “And ultimately, the customer benefits by enjoying a beautiful high-quality finish, which helps seal and protect the wood, and enhances the rich look and feel of the door.”

New stain colors available for Mahogany, Rustic Walnut, Demesne Cherry or White Oak Pella wood doors include Chapparal, Saddle, Chappo, Rawhide, Bordeaux and Rosewood.

“We much prefer to have Pella do the finish work,” said custom homebuilder Eric Johnson, owner of E.S. Johnson Builders in Davidson, N.C. “ We know they will get it sealed and completed in a much better way than having it done in the field.”

Finished with finishing
Other pre-finished products available from Pella include Designer Series® wood windows, Pella® Impervia® windows and doors, steel and fiberglass doors and all Pella vinyl products.

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.

Pella� replacement windows, doors qualify for Canada's tax credits

Fri, 22 May 2009 12:11:00 -0500

A variety of Pella windows and doors qualify for Canadian tax credits as part of the Home Renovation Tax Credit (HRTC). Created to spur economic activity in home remodeling and manufacturing industries in Canada, HRTC provides Canadian homeowners with 15 percent tax credit up to $1,350.

Savvy Canadian homeowners will couple the HRTC with the ecoENERGY Retrofit Program to offset the costs of installing ENERGY STAR®-qualified Pella windows and doors. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to help reduce a home’s energy usage.

“Today’s homeowners are looking at renovations with their utility bills in mind and now Canadian residents can benefit at tax time as well,” said Pella Corporation’s Vice President of Retail Replacement Annette Bravard. “The HRTC and ecoENERGY programs help offset the costs of home renovations and reward residents for installing energy-efficient Pella replacement windows and doors.”

Pella offers a wide variety of types and styles of replacement windows and doors that qualify for the tax credits.

For more information on the HRTC and ecoENERGY programs visit:
http://pressroom.pella.com/fast_facts/136/

To learn which Pella products qualify for Canada’s ecoENERGY program, contact your local Pella Window & Door Showroom representatives. To find a local Pella showroom in your area visit www.Pella.com.

*Please be sure to consult your tax professional to determine if the windows or doors you purchase are eligible for Canada’s tax credit program.

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

Pat Meyer named to lead Pella Corp as President and CEO

Tue, 19 May 2009 10:21:00 -0500

As part of its succession planning process designed to provide for smooth transitions, Pella Corporation has named Pat Meyer to succeed current President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mel Haught as the company’s top leader upon Haught’s planned retirement Nov. 30.

Meyer, who joined the privately-held, family-owned company headquartered in Pella, Iowa, in 1990, will now serve as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) until becoming the President and CEO Dec. 1. Meyer most recently served as Corporate Vice President, overseeing operations of EFCO, A Pella Company, and the company’s Wylie (Texas) Operations and Project Management Office (PMO).

“We thank Mel for his leadership and dedication to Pella Corporation since 1991,” said Charlie Farver, chairman of Pella Corporation’s Board of Directors, in announcing the leadership transition. “Mel was part of the team that brought the continuous improvement (CI) culture to Pella Corporation that thrives today. We’re confident that Pat Meyer will drive Pella’s focus on innovation, CI and customer satisfaction well into the future,” Farver said.

Meyer brings management experience in sales, marketing, operations, finance, manufacturing and continuous improvement to his expanded leadership role. “Pella Corporation is a great company and I’ve welcomed the opportunity to lead a number of areas of the business during my career here,” Meyer said. “I’m looking forward to working together with our team members to focus on building Pella Corporation’s industry leadership in residential and commercial markets by delivering innovative products and services to meet the needs of our customers for new construction as well as remodeling and replacement applications,” Meyer said.

Meyer, a native of Granger, Iowa, earned his B.S. and M.B.A. in Business Administration from Drake University in Des Moines. Today, he serves on Drake’s National Advisory Board. In addition, he’s a graduate of Northwestern University’s Executive Scholar Program in Marketing, and the Harvard Business School’s General Manager Program. Meyer and his family now make their home in Pella, Iowa.

In announcing his retirement, Haught said he’s pleased that Meyer will succeed him. “Clearly, the Pella Corporation team has achieved many milestones and I’m proud of all that our team has accomplished over the years,” he said.

“Pat is an effective leader who’s performed well in a variety of roles with the company across the country during his impressive career,” Haught said. “I’ve always admired the way Pat has demonstrated a positive ‘can do’ attitude and I know he’ll guide the Pella team to continued business success in his new role,” Haught said.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation is a leader in 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 is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship to create satisfied customers.

The company 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 www.pella.com. Follow Pella on Twitter.com @Pella_News.

Pella Corporation raises $161,000 for juvenile diabetes research

Wed, 13 May 2009 03:04:00 -0500

Pella Corporation, a leader in the window and door industry, earned the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s (JDRF) World Achievement Award, presented by the Greater Iowa/South Dakota JDRF Chapter, recognizing the company’s leadership in helping others.

Pella Corporation President and CEO Mel Haught said that Pella team members raised $161,000 in their sixth official year of support for the cause. “Clearly, we’re very thankful for the leadership shown by Pella Corporation team members in the United States and Canada who together with their friends, families and communities have collectively raised more than $1.6 million for diabetes research over the years,” Haught said.

Haught credits the fundraising success to the dedication of individuals committed to helping find a cure for diabetes. “When it comes to using resources responsibly, JDRF is one of the most efficient charities and Pella Corporation is proud to help support their important cause,” Haught said.

Through JDRF, volunteers raise money for research to help find a cure for the disease which affects more than 20 million Americans. Although juvenile diabetics rely on insulin to survive, it is not a cure. Over time, diabetes takes its toll on virtually every organ in the body. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) gives more money directly to diabetes research than any other private health agency in the world.

About diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic, debilitating disease that affects every organ system and reduces the average life span by 10 to 15 years. Type 1 diabetes — juvenile diabetes — develops when the body’s immune system destroys pancreatic beta cells, which make the hormone that regulates blood sugar.

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, adult blindness, nerve damage, heart attack, stroke and non-traumatic amputations.

About Pella Corporation
Pella Corporation’s window and door manufacturing facilities are located in the Iowa communities of Pella, Carroll, Shenandoah, and Sioux Center, in addition to manufacturing operations in Columbia, S.C., Fairfield, Ohio, Gettysburg, Pa., Macomb, Ill., Murray, Ky., Portland, Ore., and Wylie, Texas. EFCO, a Pella Company which manufactures commercial building products, is based in Monett, Mo.

As a family-owned and professionally managed privately-held company, Pella is known for its 84-year history of innovation, making great 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.

The company 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®, which features the Pella Design Center, a “store-within-a-store.” For more information, call 888-847-3552, visit www.pella.com, and follow Pella on Twitter.com @Pella_News.

Chicago's Smart Home Features Pella's most energy-efficient windows

Mon, 11 May 2009 02:39:00 -0500

Proving smart can be beautiful, the Museum of Science and Industry has extended its Smart Home: Green + Wired, powered by ComEd and sponsored by Peoples Gas exhibit in Chicago. The three-story modular and sustainable “green” home on the museum’s grounds has been redesigned showcasing the ways, big and small, that people can make eco-friendly living a part of their lives — plus highlights unique home technologies for the 21st century.

Featuring Pella® Designer Series® windows throughout, the home combines the best practices of green environmental practices. Pella’s Designer Series windows and doors include blinds or shades protected between panes of glass and are rated No. 1 for energy efficiency among top national brands.*

“It is my hope the exhibit will educate and raise awareness about the vital importance of sustainable design while inspiring adults and children to make changes in their own homes that lead to healthier, greener living,” said Michelle Kaufmann, AIA, LEED® AP, award-winning Smart Home architect and green living expert. “One of the best parts about this exhibit is returning home to the Midwest to work with the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. I first visited the museum in the 8th grade and was inspired by the power of combining architecture and technology.”

Key components
With the help of key participant Wired magazine, the home will incorporate “smart” technologies, with a focus on energy efficiency, making greener choices and homeowner awareness. A home-automation system automates heat, lighting and window coverings to reduce energy consumption. An energy monitoring system will track electricity and water usage on a real-time basis, giving homeowners a direct way to see the resources they're consuming by the hour, day or month.

Pella windows contribute to the smart technology of the home. “Our windows demonstrate how to improve energy efficiency, and help block out the noise of the outside world,” said Ross MacNeill, Pella Windows & Doors, Chicago. “Pella Designer Series windows and doors with triple-glazing and laminated glass can reduce exterior sounds by more than 80 percent.** This is at least double the sound performance of a single-glazed window. By comparison, an eight-inch concrete block reduces sound by 95 percent.”

Exhibit information
The Smart Home is open for tours May 19, 2009 through January 3, 2010. Celebrating exciting new directions in sustainable living and spectacular, environmentally-friendly technology, Smart Home: Green + Wired offers guests guided tours of the 2,500 square-foot home and grounds, located in a park on the east side of the Museum. Within the home, guests can view the latest innovations in reusable resources, smart energy consumption, and clean, healthy-living environments in a contemporary setting. Smart Home: Green + Wired, powered by ComEd and warmed by Peoples Gas, is also sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; Dominick’s; and the Motorola Foundation as part of the Museum’s 75th Anniversary. Tickets are now on sale at www.msichicago.org.

The Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry’s mission is to inspire the inventive genius in everyone by presenting captivating and compelling experiences that are real and educational. The Museum first opened its doors in 1933. In 2008—more than 175 million guests later—the Museum commemorates its 75th Anniversary with a year-long celebration. Located at 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, the Museum is open every day of the year except December 25. Regular Museum hours are 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday.

About Pella
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

To view Smart Home images visit: http://msismarthome.org

* Pella Designer Series wood windows and patio doors with triple pane glass have superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings.
**Computer simulation average compared to single-pane wood windows. Actual results may vary.

# # #

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to feature Pella� products

Fri, 08 May 2009 02:18:00 -0500

The Sunday, May 10, episode of ABC television network’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will include products manufactured and donated by Pella Corporation. The episode will air at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on ABC-TV.

The makeover in Las Vegas, Nev., marks the 22nd appearance of Pella products to help complete the new construction of a home for a deserving family featured in the series. The Pella entry door manufactured in Fairfield, Ohio, is included in the new home built for this episode.

“The Pella team was honored to help create better views for this special Las Vegas family by teaming up with ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,’” said Kathy Krafka Harkema, Pella Corporation spokesperson. “The windows and doors and the skilled expertise of the team make Pella a natural fit for these unique projects. We thank the Pella Window & Door Showroom team in Las Vegas and local installers, in addition to our corporate team members who made this special project a reality.”

Past episodes  
Pella products were included on 21 previous episodes of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” providing new or renovated homes for deserving families in Albert Lea, M.N., Geneva, N.Y., Fairmont, W. Va., the California cities of Los Angeles, Martinez and Penngrove and the New Jersey cities of Bergenfield and Irvington. In addition, Pella has provided windows and doors for homes featured on the show in: Billings, Mont., Alma, Ark., near New Orleans, La., St. Petersburg, Fla., Clarksville, Tenn., Bountiful, Utah, Purdy, Mo., Biloxi, Miss., Berry, Ky., Minot, N.D., Gladbrook, Iowa, Kansas City, Mo. and Albany, N.Y.  

About “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” 
"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," has won back-to-back Emmy Awards as Best Reality Program (non-competitive), and is in its 6th season on ABC. The program is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. Anthony Dominici is executive producer; and David Goldberg is president of Endemol USA.

About Pella  
Pella Corporation is a leader in designing, testing, manufacturing and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling and replacement applications.

Pella introduces BIM models for windows, doors

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 01:56:00 -0500

Pella Corporation now offers three-dimensional (3D) window and door models for use in Building Information Modeling (BIM) projects by architects, designers, and others looking for aesthetically correct, easy-to-use, data-rich 3D drawings. Pella introduces its latest innovation as architects gather for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) national convention and design expo, April 30-May 2 in San Francisco.

“As we continue to provide the best construction documentation support for our commercial partners, we’ve developed a collection of Pella BIM models so designers can easily incorporate Pella products into their building designs,” said Pella Commercial Marketing Manager Terry Zeimetz, AIA, CSI, CCPR.

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.

“We frequently include Pella in our commercial and residential projects,” said Mary Scro, AIA, NCARB, and partner with Z+ Architects, an architectural firm in Allendale, N.J. “Having Pella’s BIM models will make our job easier, faster and better, saving us time and money. Plus we can very quickly show our clients different product options.”

Pella’s new BIM-ready models complement other 3D and 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.

Innovations offer more style, color options
Other new commercial innovations from Pella include interior matched grilles between-the-glass and prefinished stained interiors for the wood window collection. Pella ProLine® and Architect Series® products now offer color choices for grilles between-the-glass to offer the look of individual panes of glass, with the energy efficiency and cleaning convenience of grilles permanently protected between the panes. The new grille color options — White, Tan, Brown, Ivory, Harvest, Cordovan and Brickstone — complement today's most popular stain and paint tones.

Also new in 2009, Pella expands its aluminum exterior color options for greater design flexibility to add a look of distinction to non-residential and multi-family projects Seventeen new feature colors are available on Pella Architect Series and Designer Series® products, as well as aluminum-clad wood, fiberglass and steel entrance doors. New colors include: Cranberry, Real Red, Stormy Blue, Naval, Eldridge Gray, Iron Ore, Almond, Classic White, Vanilla Cream, Sand Dune, Honeysuckle, Portobello, Fossil, Auburn Brown, French Roast, Summer Sage, and Deep Olive.

Sustainable solutions save energy
Pella Designer Series aluminum-clad wood windows and doors with double or triple glazing options offer blinds and shades between the panes of glass, protected from dust and damage, reducing lifecycle costs associated with the maintenance and replacement of traditional room side blinds and shades. Designer Series blinds or shades may be opened or closed to control the flow of light and the window sash may be opened for natural ventilation.

When closed, Pella between-the-glass blinds offer a 43 percent reduction in solar heat gain compared to traditional room side blinds, reducing potential cooling costs Research found windows with ordinary room side blinds accumulate 200 times more of certain airborne allergens than Designer Series products with between-the-glass blinds.1 In addition, Pella Designer Series products with triple-pane glass are No. 1 for energy efficiency2 and noise reduction when compared to top national brands with similar glazing.

For added convenience, Designer Series products now offer completely prefinished stained interior options.

Fiberglass composite casement windows debut
Pella Impervia®, crafted of fiberglass composite materials, adds casement and awning style window options in 2009, to provide more choices for architects and commercial property owners looking for highly durable, low maintenance windows or patio doors that will perform even in extreme weather conditions.

Pella Impervia windows are made from Duracast®, a patented five-layer, engineered fiberglass composite that is more durable than aluminum3, offers the thermal efficiency of wood, is priced competitively with vinyl, and comes in an impressive array of styles, sizes and options to fit your project requirements.

Architect Series Double-hung features impact-resistant glass
Pella’s newly redesigned Architect Series HurricaneShield® double-hung and single-hung window allows customers the full extent of impact-resistant protection without sacrificing aesthetics.Eliminating the need for brace clips and other visible reinforcement the natural beauty of wood interiors to radiate.HurricaneShield double-hung and single-hung products offer Missile D, Wind Zone 3 performance as the standard.The new design achieves performance ratings of +55/-60 psf in sizes up to 41” w x 84” h, 45” w x 77” h, 48” w x 71” h, 52” w x 65” h and +60/-75 psf on sizes below 33” w x 53” h.

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.

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 pellacommercial.com.

1. Based on data from research conducted by the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health at The University of Iowa.
2. Pella Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass are #1 for energy efficiency and noise reduction among top national brands with similar glazing, providing superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings.
3. In testing performed in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) testing standards, Pella’s Duracast has displayed superior performance in strength, ability to withstand extreme heat and cold and resistance to dents and scratches.