Efficiency, innovation and creativity are the essential capital necessary in today’s economic environment. Transforming a traditional building products manufacturer into a dynamic industry leader requires all three. Founded in 1949, Best Window & Door Company was a longstanding member of Johnstown’s industrial community.

Originally focused on the fabrication of storm doors and windows, Best Window & Door moved to the vinyl window manufacturing process in the late 1970s. Since then, the firm has built a unique position in the marketplace as a leader in research, product development, integrated manufacturing and customer service.

Owned by Barry L. Ritko, Sr. since 1999, the firm began a transformation process that further accelerated when Barry L. “B.J.” Ritko, Jr. joined the firm as Vice President and General Manager in 2005, and the father-and-son team established a strategy that has dramatically redefined the company’s market leadership.

In the highly competitive and economically challenging building products sector, Best Window & Door stands apart. Every product the company manufactures is exclusive, which means that Best is one of only ten manufacturers in the United States that makes products with the same profile, and is the only one in the Northeast. Every product is custom manufactured — the firm produces all products to order. This keeps stock levels low, flexibility high and means that the factory offers outstanding turnaround and responsiveness.

The Best Group philosophy — make custom products, produce them to order and provide outstanding customer service — extends beyond the factory floor. The firm also provides professional field installation for both residential and commercial applications through a team of 100% in-house, company-employed installers across a primary market area covering 20 counties in three states. When a customer orders from Best, the product is designed, manufactured and installed by Best employees, with zero sub-contracting. To support this effort, the company maintains a very aggressive sales and marketing strategy supported, like its installation efforts, with Best Group employees selling Best Group products.

Throughout this transformation, Best Group has relied on the City of Johnstown and the city and regional workforce, as cornerstones of its success. In 2007, Best Group purchased its current headquarters facility, providing outstanding space for manufacturing and complete office and support capabilities, as well as an on-site showroom. More than 70% of the Best Group’s workforce lives in the Johnstown area, and the firm has partnered with the city to secure improvement grants and upgrade support to maintain its location. “The city has always been very good with financial assistance as well as oversight and improvement grants,” says B.J. Ritko, Vice President & General Manager.

The results of this partnership are powerful. In the five years that the Ritkos have led Best’s transformation, the company’s annual sales have tripled. The firm added a new location in West Virginia and recently opened a new certified distribution point in Warren, PA which will service lower New York state and Pennsylvania’s Northwest/Erie region. While the firm focuses on direct-to-customer sales, the outstanding product portfolio has led to wholesale relationships with companies in New Jersey, Michigan and New Mexico.

“Johnstown has played a roll in providing us with a geographical centerpoint to access our market areas and extend in all directions,” Ritko adds. “In addition, it has provided a very dedicated and tenured workforce while also giving us a broad array of local young talent to develop.

First, why do you want a Storm Window? What are you trying to do? Is it for Energy Efficiency? Or, perhaps this is a less expensive investment versus replacing your windows? Maybe you live in a historical area that won’t let you replace windows due to covenants and Storm Windows are your only choice? Or, maybe you love your current windows but they’re just not providing that energy benefit you need? The questions could go on. In summary, you’re considering Storm Windows for one reason or another and you need to know a little bit more about them.

As we all know, just about anyone and everyone is energy conscience today. Everyone is mindful to not waste anything, especially precious energy. Today’s fuel costs are high and they are only going higher. It behooves everyone to ensure their home is as energy efficient as they can make it with the funds they have. Storm Windows may be a consideration to help achieve this goal.

What is a Storm Window?
Its self-contained unit that is fitted over your existing window (normally mounted externally) that provides an additional thermal and physical boundary. They provide a boost in the performance of the overall window area while providing protection to the accompanying home’s window unit. Sometimes this boost is noticeable, other times, it is minimal. It really depends on what type of window the Storm Window is placed over.

Today, Storm Windows come in all shapes and sizes. Mostly, they are custom manufactured for an exact fit. They can open or be stationary. They can provide ventilation and allow in filtered light with minimal UV Rays (the stuff that fades furniture, carpets, etc).

Storm Windows are normally constructed from aluminum for both frame and sash construction with single pane (one piece) glass. Wood Storm Windows are also available today, but not recommended. They are a dying breed. Locating someone who makes them could present a great challenge.

Storm windows come in a multitude of colors today with energy efficient glass, UV protection, and even shatter proof glass systems.They are certainly engineered to endure and perform within theparameters of their design.

The price of Storm Windows varies. They can be basic to custom. This affects the price. Normally, one can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $350 for an average size Storm Window not including installation. It all depends upon what you choose.

So, should you buy a Storm Window? Well, that’s up to you. In some instances, you might be forced to if you don’t want to change the look of the home with new replacement windows. In other instances, replacing the entire window unit may be in better choice and best “bang for the buck”.

Storm Windows aren’t the dominant force they once were in the past. But, they are still very present today. The glass coatings and energy efficiencies they offer are certainly something to consider. However, the price of some Storm Units today may equal, in some instances, the price of a Replacement Window unit (just some food for thought).

As mentioned, Storm Windows today can provide some boost in Energy Efficiency. They can increase the overall insulation value of a window area noticeably in some instances. However, they are not necessarily an “air-tight” unit.

Before spending money on a Storm Window Unit, be sure to weigh out the long term affect these units will have. In most instances, Storm Windows don’t provide the long term energy payback that a replacement window unit would. Also, Storm Window units generally come with limited short term (6 months to 1 year) warranties.

In summary, be sure to weigh your options and do your homework. Storm Windows aren’t a bad thing to have depending upon the situation. If budget, location, or some other desire dictates, purchasing Storm Window units certainly isn’t a bad choice.

Like anything today, price is an important consideration when making any purchase. When it comes to windows, price is something you may have to negotiate. In most instances, a superior window product should be seriously considered. However, in most instances, a superior window product may cost a little more when compared to its average
counterparts.

What makes a window superior? And, what should you look at when considering a window purchase? Well, there are many things one should
take into the consideration. Here’s a list of things to look at when choosing a replacement window in the order you should consider them:

1. Window Composition:

Windows are made from various materials such as wood, aluminum, fiberglass, composites, vinyl, etc. There are numerous types. Choosing which type comes down to many things to include what is currently in the home and what benefit each brings. Overall, each material has its benefits and drawbacks. Allow time for a professional company to come and present to you their product and use this information to compare it to other products.

2. Glass Composition: Every window comes with glass.

The glass in the unit is called an “Insulated Glass Unit” or “I.G. Unit”. These I.G. Units come with many options. Some I.G. Units are “Dual Pane” (two pieces of glass) and others are “Triple Pane” (Three pieces of glass). Also, glass units come with different types of energy coatings such as “low-e” and inert gases such as “Argon Gas”. Finally, Insulated Glass units come with Spacer Systems. Confused yet? As you can see, this component is the “money maker” of window. Generally, 80% of a window is glass. Thus, this component will define the overall performance of the window. In summary, make sure you have a professional company come to you and physically demonstrate to you their Insulated Glass performance. Any reputable company can provide this service on site at the time or product demonstration in your home.

3. Frame/Sash Construction:

Just as every window has glass, it also has a frame and sash or sashes. The frame is what holds everything together and the sash or sashes are what “open” or operate. A frame has to be constructed to endure. It should be multi-chambered to provide a thermal boundary, structural support, and reduce noise. It should also allow for minimal air-
infiltration through the unit. Remember, a window is serving many purposes and the frame and sash construction is what ensures it sustains a high level of performance for the life of its use.

4. Company: This could very well be moved up to the number one spot.

Overall, do your homework. It’s best to deal with a manufacturer and have a direct line to the product and support. Not to mention the enhanced expertise. However, any reputable contractor or distributor will suffice. In summary, DEAL WITH AN EXPERT. Windows are not a project that one should gamble with. Make sure
you hire a company that specializes in windows. Meaning, window sales and installation. A great window isn’t great until its installed correctly and provided a comprehensive support program. Incorrect installation, a faulty product, or lack of knowledge of behalf of the contractor can lead to some potentially big and costly headaches.

5. Installation: This too is a critical area.

As mentioned in previous paragraphs, it is paramount that the installation be professional. But, things one must also consider is how will the window be mounted during installation? What insulation, if any, will be used between the window and the home framing (jambs)? Some window company’s use nothing between the new window and home allowing for air-gaps and a great source of air-infiltration negating the benefits of replacing the windows in the first place. Other window company’s understand the need, and possess the product and technique, to insulate this area with poly-urethane foam. In summary, talk to a professional company and ensure you receive a comprehensive explanation on how the window will be mounted, insulated, and finished. Be sure you understand completely what the final product will look like.

6. Warranty and Service:

Its cliché today to say make sure you get a good “warranty”. In windows, it is of utmost importance to ensure you not only get a GREAT warranty, but also a GREAT service plan. Warranties come in all types of formats. In summary, make sure you read the fine print. Ensure your product is a “No Hassel” Warranty. And, make sure your going to get the Service with that warranty. All too often customers are lured into a “Great Warranty” only to find that the Service is poor. It is not uncommon to have a window part or piece replaced under warranty, but the service to install this item is not included. Make sure you deal with a Professional Organization that will support your product purchase and service it.

7. Certifications and Accreditations:

There is governing bodies that exist today that provide oversight and structure to the window industry. These have been put in place to ensure proper measures are taken to protect the consumer. They are also in place to provide validity to the consumer that the products they are purchasing, and the company they are dealing with, are reputable and valid. These entities include, but are not limited to the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council), Energy Star, AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association), BBB (Better Business Bureau), EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and so forth. The list goes on. Any professional organization will be very familiar with, and have affiliation with most, if not all, of these entities.

8. Price:

This is important also. However, what the “right” price is for a window product can only be determined by the person purchasing it. It’s simply a “perceived value” scenario. If you think it’s worth it, then it is. Generally speaking, a window product can range anywhere from $400 to $1500 for a window installed. But again, it depends on the type of window, service, warranty, and installation techniques you are receiving. In summary, don’t get too caught up in price. This is an important area for people to consider but it’s better to get quality over
quantity in this instance.

SUMMARY:
It can be seen that there are many things to consider when replacingyour windows. Listed above are the top eight which one might want to consider first when exploring this project. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to visit a window project. Just make sure you investigate the product and company you want to deal with.

Windows, in essence, serve the same purpose as a wall. They provide all the same functions while providing a view. If you were going to buy a wall for your home, wouldn’t you take your time to find out just what type of wall it is and who was going to build it?

• One of the most common reasons to replace existing windows is to increase the energy efficiency of your home — which reduces your heating and cooling bills and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. You’ll notice the savings immediately — because poorly performing windows and doors cause heating and cooling loss in a home. You’re literally throwing money out the window!

So, how do you know if a window or door is energy-efficient? Look for these features:

1. Multiple panes of glass

Double-pane glass insulates almost twice as well as single-pane. Triple-pane glass maximizes your energy efficiency.

2. Low-E (Low-emissivity) glass coatings

• These are layers of thermal protection inside insulating glass that:
• Help reflect summer heat and retain interior cooling.
• Help reflect winter cold and retain interior heat.
• Help prevent fade damage.

3. Argon (inert gas) between the glass panes

Argon is a natural, colorless, non-toxic gas that’s heavier than air. It adds a layer of insulation to further reduce heat transfer, making your home even more energy-efficient. Pella® products offer the energy efficient options that will meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® guidelines in all 50 states.*2

4. An energy-efficient window frame

• Wood frames are excellent insulators — they conduct less heat or cold into your home. In fact, they insulate 1,800 times better than aluminum.
• Fiberglass composite material offers the insulating properties of wood. It won’t expand and warp in the summer, or shrink and turn brittle during winter.
• Vinyl multi-chambered frames reduce heat loss for added energy efficiency ? and they’re exceptionally easy to care for.
• Aluminum is inexpensive and durable but has a poorer insulation rating, meaning the frames conduct more heat or cold into your home.

5. Tight seals

Windows and doors that don’t seal properly are drafty — affecting your comfort level and increasing your energy costs.

6. Quality installation.

If installed incorrectly, your windows and doors may not operate properly. Proper installation will help prevent air infiltration and even costly water damage to your home.

7. The NFRC label

It’s the only reliable way to determine the window’s (whole unit) energy performance and to compare products “apples to apples.”

The National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC) is a nonprofit organization for the window industry that developed an energy rating system based on whole-unit product performance — not just the glass.

• A The U-Factor represents the rate of heat flowing out of a window or door in an hour’s time. The lower the number, the better the glass insulates.
• B The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) rating measures the amount of solar radiation that enters as heat. The lower the number, the less heat the glass allows in.

• Replacing windows throughout a home can be a big investment. But it’s an investment with great payback (see HYPERLINK “http://www.milgard.com/planning-your-project/budgeting/” l “years-of-great-payback#years-of-great-payback” Years of Great Payback below).
• You should establish your budget even before beginning your project. A Best Window Sales Representative can give you a free ballpark estimate on how much it might cost to replace your windows. It’s hard to provide an accurate cost range as a house can vary greatly in the number and size of its windows. But here are some basic guidelines for average-sized windows in an average home.
• Expect to pay an average of $500-$800 per window for replacements placed inside structurally sound window frames. It could go as high as $1,000 per window depending on the frame material and glass options. Double- and triple-glazed windows, or those filled with argon gas, increase energy savings but bump the cost to the higher end of the scale.
• If an existing window frame is rotted or damaged in any way, the frame must be rebuilt. This can increase the cost and necessitate the use of new construction windows.

If You’re Thinking of Using Credit

• Home equity lines of credit can be a good resource for financing this type of project. In fact, in some cases, the interest on home equity lines of credit is tax-deductible. Many bank websites have financing calculators you can use to figure out what your loan payments might be.

Other Budgeting Considerations

• You should establish your budget even before beginning your project. You want to be sure you have the money to comfortably afford either paying for the project with cash or through credit.
• Make decisions based on value and quality, not just price. After all, this is your home we’re talking about.
• Think about having the work done in stages to spread out the financial impact. It is often easier to create a more manageable budget by starting small and adding to the project at a later date. This will break the work into several jobs instead of one large project. The down side of doing a remodel in stages is that you may end up paying more in the long run. You may want to discuss these possibilities with your contractor to determine if they would apply to your project.

Years of Great Payback

• High-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows are annually demonstrated to be an excellent investment. According to the 2007 Cost vs. Value Report (a combined effort by Remodeling magazine and REALTOR® magazine), homeowners can expect to recoup an average of 80 percent for window replacement.
• Such return on investment makes replacement windows an excellent buy. Particularly since today’s energy-efficient windows and patio doors also can:

Reduce energy consumption.

• Reduce drafts and make your home more comfortable.
• Improve natural light and reduce glare.
• Help you take advantage of solar heat gain in cold climates or minimize it in hot climates.
• Provide years of easy operation and weather-tight seals.
• Drastically minimize HYPERLINK “http://www.milgard.com/care-and-warranty/window-and-door-care/” care and maintenance (particularly if the windows are made of vinyl or aluminum, or have fiberglass exteriors).
• Reduce noise.
• Reduce window condensation.
• Protect draperies, carpets and upholstery from fading or discoloring.