The Many Benefits of High-Performance Products
High-performing products yield big benefits for the homeowner, manufacturer and community at large
Encouraging innovation and improvement in new homes, model residential energy codes and programs support higher performance for greater savings and longevity. Improving existing homes’ energy efficiency and reducing maintenance also benefits property owners, residents and the larger community. When we make an active change, we’d like it to save us money and time. We want it to last longer and look good with less work.
Savings and value
Compared to updating lighting and appliances, choosing energy-efficient windows and doors is a larger investment for homeowners, and greater savings is expected. Government incentives, tax credits and rebates can help lower the initial purchase cost for homeowners who buy qualified products and complete the paperwork. The true savings is seen in the reduced utility bills, and the greater value of improved indoor comfort, enhanced wellness and reduced maintenance.
Whether building new or renovating, finished aluminum-framed windows and doors that incorporate thermal separation and insulating barriers and high-performance glass can yield significant energy savings. High-performance finishes further support the longevity and low maintenance of aluminum windows and doors.
Factory-finish advantage
Manufacturers using Class I anodized and 70% fluoropolymer painted coatings offer homeowners the highest performance finishes. For example, specified to meet AAMA 611, Class I anodized aluminum-framed windows and doors can have a projected lifespan of up to 40 years or more. At the end of their life on a home, aluminum can be recycled and reused.
The proven quality and durability of finished aluminum fenestration also can contribute to profitable bottom lines for installers and builders. Factory-finished products reduce labor, time and costs in the field, and minimize call-back issues from homeowners. Once the new energy-efficient windows and doors are in place, homeowners don’t want to spend more of their time and money to sand, stain or repaint the frames after just a few years of use.
Health and safety
As health and wellness have become greater concerns, homeowners also don’t want to worry about added chemicals . Aluminum naturally resists corrosion, does not support termites and other pests, and does not absorb moisture or water. Thermally broken, finished aluminum framing also has a high condensation resistance, minimizing the potential for mold growth.
Along with health considerations, people’s safety must always remain at the forefront. Like their commercial siblings, aluminum-framed windows and doors can be engineered for seismic performance, impact-resistance with high winds and hurricanes, and resilience in extreme climate conditions. Plus, they can be formed and finished to preserve a welcoming appearance.
Single-source support
When aluminum window and door manufacturers choose a single-source finishing service provider, they have the advantage of combining aesthetic flexibility, thermal improvement, sustainability and longevity.
As homeowners become better educated consumers about energy-efficient systems and products, our industry has the opportunity to demonstrate the many benefits of high-performance windows and doors.
