Energy-efficient Vinyl Windows Expected to Lead Sales for Simonton Windows in 2008
2008 Trends Insight Analysis
PARKERSBURG, W. VA. – Following the trend started two years ago by increasing interest in green building products, high-end vinyl energy-efficient windows are again expected to be the most popular windows sold by Simonton Windows® in 2008.
“While industry observers expect the housing correction will extend into 2008, we believe sales for high quality vinyl windows for new construction, replacement and coastal markets will hold their own,” according to Chris Monroe, vice president of marketing for Simonton Windows. “Energy efficiency and low maintenance were the most popular qualities in the windows we sold in 2007 and we expect that to be the case again in 2008. We’ve also discovered that as the market becomes more competitive, our high service levels and product quality tend to separate us from other manufacturers.
“When the market is down, as it is now, everyone in the buying process --- from the homeowner to the builder or remodeler to the distributor --- places more focus on quality, service and delivery. These are areas where Simonton excels. We believe our attention to detail and superior product performance will serve us well again in 2008.”
New Products Targeted to Builders
To meet the needs of builders seeking high-end, energy-efficient vinyl windows, Simonton plans to introduce the new Simonton Brickmould 600 series in December of 2007. The series, which is an addition to the company’s popular Simonton ProFinish® new construction product line, will be a major focus for Simonton in 2008.
Every window in the Brickmould 600 series is ENERGY STAR® qualified and comes standard with Low E/Argon-filled glass and a 7/8” insulating glass unit. Intended for higher end new construction projects and for installation in more traditional wood markets, the Brickmould 600 windows feature optional simulated divided lites in Colonial, Prairie and Perimeter styles.
“This product line has a unique design that looks like wood,” says Monroe. “The options of interior woodgrain laminates and PVC grids replicating simulated divided lites will be strong incentives for traditional wood window builders to switch to vinyl.”
Window styles available in the Brickmould 600 series include Double Hung, 2-lite Slider, 3-lite Slider, Casement, Geometrics, Picture and Awning.
2007 Versus 2008
According to Monroe, there are some bright spots on the horizon for 2008. “In challenging market conditions, more focus is placed on quality and service, which is a positive thing for everyone involved in the manufacturing and selling process,” says Monroe. “Builders and remodelers need to focus on high quality products that deliver superior performance to set themselves apart in the marketplace. Manufacturers need to stay on their toes to rise to the highest levels they can in these areas to separate them from other manufacturers.”
At Simonton, attention in 2008 will continue to be placed on strengthening quality and service levels, while offering increased training for customers and more product information for homeowners. Simonton’s newly-revised www.simonton.com web site offers homeowners stronger information than ever before which help consumers make purchasing decisions.
“While the challenges facing the industry will continue in 2008, we believe Simonton is positively positioned to meet the needs of homeowners, remodelers, builders and distributors with products that are extremely energy efficient and reliable,” says Monroe.
Simonton Windows produces ENERGY STAR® qualified replacement and new construction windows and doors, including a line of impact-resistant products. The company was ranked #1 in quality in the 2007 Brand Use Study sponsored by Builder magazine and has won two consecutive Best In Class Awards for being ranked “Overall Top Rated Vinyl Window Brand” in unaided industry studies.
Founded in 1946, Simonton’s hallmark has been to deliver its made-to-order products in seven days or less. Part of consumer products company Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), Simonton has manufacturing facilities in Pennsboro, Harrisville and Ellenboro, W.Va.; Paris, Ill.; McAlester, Okla.; and Vacaville, Calif. Simonton is a founding sponsor of The Weather Museum and a corporate partner of Homes for Our Troops. For information, call (800) SIMONTON or visit www.simonton.com.
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