A Window on Windows (And Doors)

Curb appeal – it conveys that a home looks attractive on the outside. Windows and doors are a significant element in curb appeal, in terms of both style and condition.

First impressions are important; however, long-lasting looks and comfort indoors as well as out are what homeowners need. The various lines from Pella Windows & Doors are designed and manufactured to keep up with the times aesthetically and technically.

Founded in Pella, Iowa in 1925, the company has had nearly a century’s worth of experience in designing windows and doors for North American climates and tastes. The company offers single- and double-hung (sometimes called guillotine-style) windows to give a classic look that suits traditional and contemporary homes. Awning and casement windows swing out easily with the turn of a handle. Sliding windows move horizontally and allow generous access to fresh air.

Pella’s door options are similarly varied, with four styles (hinged, sliding, bi-fold, and multi-slide) for patio doors alone. Entry doors can be solid, or with glass insets, and complemented with sidelites, transoms or such decorative elements as grilles or hinge straps. Garage doors are offered in more than 20 styles.

Deciding on the right product can be confusing when there are many choices. “We see the purchase of doors and windows as a process of discovery,” says Jon Buchanan, general manager of Pella Windows & Doors in Ontario. “Our sales professionals work with customers to drive a solution, considering their needs and wants.”

Pella sales professionals receive three to four weeks of basic training and then go to Iowa for an additional two weeks of training at the factory. After that they work with customers during in-home consultations and at showrooms.

Although samples are available at in-home consultations, showrooms offer the opportunity to see and feel more products. Pella’s recently revamped Oakville location, for example, has 27 window cartridges on display and seven door systems.

“Most consumers do a tremendous amount of research online prior to deciding on whom to get quotes from,” Buchanan says. “Pella creates a showroom experience that aligns with what the consumer sees when they go online. They’re going to have an experience where they can physically see and touch multiple options.”

Those options, in terms of materials, are several. Wood windows have an inherent beauty and warmth. The interior-facing aspect can be painted or stained, while the exterior is aluminum-clad for durability.

Vinyl is popular, requiring little maintenance. Fibreglass is “a relatively newer material that has been gaining traction over the past 10 to 15 years,” Buchanan says. “The benefits are that it’s incredibly strong and allows a thinner profile with a larger visible glass area.” Steel doors provide strength, durability and security.

Buchanan says that, “in the Ontario market, the trend over the past few years in windows is a shift to modern styles. Our Architect series meets the demands of contemporary homes that have larger glass areas. These homes often have large elevations with high glass-to-wall ratios.”

When it comes to colour, he says, “It’s a very personal choice, like other elements such as roofing, brick, stucco.” For exteriors, white is timeless, but he also sees a trend toward earth tones, warmer colours of tans, putties, taupe. Bold choices pop up, too. “I’ve seen variations in green, red or even blue exteriors,” he says.

The Architect series has 27 exterior colours, and also custom-colour capabilities. There are 16 interior options: five paint and 11 stain choices, including three variations of white. One can also opt for a primed interior ready to be finished on-site.

This thoroughness and attention to detail is a typical Pella characteristic. Nearly a century ago the company’s founder, Pete Kuyper, said, “It’s the little extras that always distinguish outstanding performance or excellence of product.” Adds Buchanan, “We care about the little extras. You don’t get to 95 years by not following through. We’re very proud of our history and culture.” •