WINDOWS: Research shows shift in home improvement trends

We continue to bring you eco-friendly Pella news and information because they are the one manufacturer out there telling a story today.  Hot off the press is this Pella sponsored survey released today telling how American’s feel about replacing their windows — and the energy efficiency it provides…

Research shows shift in home improvement trends
— Americans would choose new windows over kitchen remodel —
[02-12-2008]

As the housing economy slows and energy costs accelerate, Americans are looking for home improvement projects that work to add value to their home and add to their monthly savings. In a national study conducted by Kelton Research, over 44% of homeowners surveyed said that if presented with the free services of a contractor, window replacement would be more important than a variety of popular home improvements like a kitchen remodel, installing new carpeting, landscaping the yard or building a new deck.

“A majority of American homeowners (51%) said their windows aren’t ‘green’ or energy-efficient enough,” said Elaine Sagers, vice president of marketing, Pella® Windows & Doors. “That fact combined with this new sense of practicality about home improvement projects tells us that many consumers are truly looking for ways to reduce how much their house actually costs them in monthly bills and upkeep.”

In the study, 51% of Americans said that of anything in their home windows offer the most potential when it comes to energy efficiency — even more than other products including lights (48%), insulation (48%) and heating systems (43%).

Green is taking root
65% of homeowners believe that energy efficiency is the most important quality to consider when choosing new Read more

 Print This Post

Awnings provide eco-minded remodeling options for homeowners

It’s no secret that homeowners have “green” on the brain. With energy efficiency rebates and a number of different green products on the market in 2008, homeowners are showing concern for eco-friendly home upgrades.

In fact, according to a 2007 market research survey on U.S. Residential Awning Usage, conducted by Harris Interactive Inc., and commissioned by the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA), nine out of ten homeowners are concerned about saving money on energy costs for their home, while three-fourths are concerned about reducing air conditioning costs.

“Money and energy costs were top concerns for homeowners, which goes hand-in-hand when selecting new products for homes,” said Michelle Sahlin, managing director, PAMA. “However, the study also revealed that Read more

 Print This Post

WINDOWS: Consumer Reports rates Energy Star replacement windows

In addition to helping you understand the window ratings game in our article earlier today, we also wanted to bring your attention to a recent report from Consumer Reports that discusses “replacement windows”.

Consumer Reports estimates that replacement windows can save you 10-25% per year on heating and cooling if you presently have single-paned windows.  The report on replacment windows discusses various manufacturers, pricing and features.  You need to be a subscriber to see most of the report, but there is some top level information available at no charge.   

Also, GetWithGreen.com found the following video information about the report at station WYSR in Syracuse: