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windows, and also ofers some similar op- tions for its Integrity line of Ultrex fberglass products. Pella's Ready Trim program sup- plies contractors with pre-assembled trim assemblies that are packaged like a picture frame and are available pre-fnished. ProVia's MasterFit Interior Trim System includes as- sembled frame extensions that interlock in mortise-and-tenon fashion, without the need for nails. Ply Gem's 1500 Series comes with integral jamb shims, along with an extruded nail fn, so it's possible for a single worker to install the windows. But ease of ordering and faster turnaround times also are high on remodelers' wish lists, and several suppliers have developed special pro- grams to meet these needs. Marvin's Integrity line ofers one good example. "Te [line's] en- tire business model is built around a 10-day delivery to the dealer," Christine Marvin says. She adds her company's overall dealer-focused F O R T O D AY'S W I N D O W manufactur- ers, it's not all about the glass. Functional aspects, including hardware, sound con- trol and new technology capabilities, also help provide differentiators in a highly competitive market. Here are just a few features making their way into manufac- turers' catalogs. Multipoint hardware. The ability to control multiple locking points with a single mechanism is especially import- ant as windows get larger. ProVia's Dualtech hardware package uses a common sweep-style device to operate latches on the inside of their windows, while Ply Gem offers multipoint devices with large-format 6-ft. by 3-ft. case- ments it sells in the California market. Sound control. Minimizing exterior noise intrusion is becoming a bigger homeowner desire. JELD-WEN offers several packages for its vinyl windows that incorporate dual panes of differing thicknesses that can help windows achieve sound transmission class ratings close to that of the rest of a home's exterior envelope. Similarly, Ply Gem has begun introducing a series of sound-control options that can be spec- ified with the glass package. Home Automation. Window makers are beginning to join the movement toward more connected homes. Pella's dual-pane Designer Series windows and doors now can be fitted with blinds or shades installed between the panes. Using the company's "Insynctive" home-automation system, the blinds can be operated by a dedicated remote or programed through a compatible home automation system (such as Wink, Savant or Nexia). In addition to further reducing solar heat gain, the shades can offer convenience and secu- rity benefits. | Better Functionality Through Hardware – and Software JELD-WEN recently added Tilt & Turn sidelites to its IWP Custom line. Dual hinging allows the windows to tilt inward by 4 degrees or to open inward like a standard casement unit. The wood windows can be specified in the company's proprietary AuraLast Wood, which resists rot, termites and water saturation. Circle 20 on inquiry card go-to-market strategy ofers an added valuable level of service remodelers appreciate. "Tere's no question that product is just one piece of it — the other piece is service," she says. "We don't sell through big box retailers because we believe in that one-on-one with the customer." Similarly, Pella counts on its team of in- the-feld sales consultants who can take over the job of taking measurements at the jobsite — and may even interface with homeowners themselves. "We have a very hands-on ap- proach with our local sales force," Jacobson says. In addition to delivering directly to the jobsite, the company's local ofces also deliver in stages, for bigger jobs. "If it's a heavy remodeling project, some- times some of the accessories aren't necessary right away," he says. "We actually hold the screens and hardware items to make sure they aren't damaged on the jobsite." | QualifiedRemodeler.com QR January 2016 59