Kolbe windows & doors Press Releases

Kolbe Features Traditional, Contemporary, Versatile & Expansive Windows & Doors

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 07:02:35 GMT

Visit Kolbe at AIA Booth #2049

Wausau, Wis. (April 2012) – Visitors to Kolbe's booth #2049 at the American Institute of Architects' National Exposition will view window and door products in traditional and contemporary styles, versatile functionality, and expansive openings. The display also will highlight energy-efficient and environmentally responsible choices, customizable options and innovative tools to visualize design possibilities for both new construction and historic renovation.

"Distinctive style deserves distinctive windows and doors," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "Whether looking for unique sizes, unusual shapes, rare wood species, colorful finishes, finely-crafted glass or universal design hardware, Kolbe can customize its products to make nearly every vision a reality. During AIA 2012, we are inviting architects to explore the boundless creative potential available with our many built-to-order options."

Exemplifying Kolbe's capabilities, the exposition booth will feature:

Ultra Series 90-degree wall unit – Comprised of Beveled Direct Set windows. Each side of the corner spans more than 6-by-6-feet. Highlighting the wall units' modern aesthetic, the interior is neatly framed in maple and the exterior is clad with aluminum with a clear anodized finish for a sleek appearance. The 90-degree wall unit also demonstrates energy-efficient, insulating glass choices. One side has glass with LoE2-270 coating, which is standard on most Kolbe products. The other side is LoE-366, which blocks 95% of UV light to protect furniture, carpets, curtains and wall coverings from fading. Keeping the interior comfortable, LoE-366 also is formulated to reject unwanted solar heat, allow natural daylight and maintain outside views.
Ultra Series Folding Window System – More than 8-feet-wide, this special-request Folding Window has four panels with exteriors clad in recycled aluminum and finished in a Gingersnap color. It uses ogee casing with double pane insulating glass with LoE3-366 coating. Fir with a chestnut stain is on the interior, along with hardware in matte black and a recessed sill. These may be paired with Kolbe's Folding Door Systems for a complement of oversized openings.
Ultra Series Tilt-Turn windows – Kolbe's Tilt-Turn windows can swing in like a casement or tilt-in like a hopper. This dual-action product showcases triple pane glass; clear-coated, anigre interior wood species; and a recycled aluminum clad exterior anodized in a Champagne color for low-maintenance durability. The unit's flush sash, performance divided lights' flat bars, black hardware and exterior retractable screen create an appealing, yet functional aesthetic.
Ultra Series contemporary, custom wood door – Certain to make a strong impression, this inswing door is configured with asymmetrical panels that each contain four lites of frosted glass. Its extruded aluminum exterior is boldly-finished with the door panels in a custom red color, framing in a Coal Black color and the white oak wood interior in a custom Ebony stain. Brushed chrome hardware completes the striking look.
Ultra Series Majesta® Double Hung windows – Available in sizes as large as 6x12-feet, all Majesta double hung units are custom-made and the balances are matched to the size and weight of the sash. Stile and rail dimensions are proportional in size. For AIA, the display window's pine interior is stained in a cherry color and sealed with a clear coat. The exterior is clad in extruded aluminum, painted in a Gingersnap color to match the Folding Window System. Enhancing the traditional look, the sash locks and lift handles are in a rustic umber and the insulating glass with LoE2-270 coating is accented with 7/8-inch performance divided lights.
Half-circle head, double hung window – Courtesy of Kolbe's subsidiary company, Point Five Windows & Doors, this window pushes the boundaries of craftsmanship and customization. The mahogany wood is stained with Sikkens Dark Oak on both the interior and exterior, matched with mahogany interior and exterior casing and a radius top, mahogany wood screen with 1-3/4-inch crossbar. The true divided lite pattern uses 1-1/8-inch bars. White bronze hardware contrasts with the rich, dark wood for a genuinely bespoke design.

Energy Efficient, Environmentally Friendly

"Beyond the visually-striking, architectural detailing, Kolbe's products are crafted with exceptional attention to quality. Our windows and doors are manufactured with high performance, reliable operation and longevity in mind," notes Bremer.

The Ultra Series product lines displayed at AIA feature exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum with recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in environmentally friendly, durable coatings and a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be chosen for trim, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™ and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™.

Online Tools 24/7/365

Kolbe's Architect Library and online resources can help simplify the research and specifying process. For example, design teams can easily communicate and visually customize many Ultra Series product dimensions and functionality using Kolbe's 3D Revit® building information models (BIM). In addition to BIM tools, Kolbe's website offers 2-D drawings; air, water, structural and thermal reports; warranties, installation and maintenance information, and online videos to demonstrate product operation and performance testing.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com and visit in-person with Kolbe representatives at booth #2049 during the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Convention and Design Exposition in Washington, D.C., May 17-19, 2012.

What began in 1946 as a two-brother team has grown into an internationally respected manufacturing company. Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co, Inc. remains a privately held, community-oriented business located in Wausau, Wis. Covering nearly one million-square-feet, its state-of-the-art facilities feature high-tech machinery and a design center to present the creative possibilities offered by Kolbe windows and doors.

Kolbe One of Top 25 by ReplacementWindowsForDummies.com

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:04:04 GMT

Energy-efficient Kolbe windows recognized for use in replacement projects

San Francisco, Calif. (March 2012) — Kolbe® windows & doors has been named one of the top 25 window manufacturers of energy efficient window products by the website ReplacementWindowsForDummies.com. After reviewing window and fenestration research from a number of independent research organizations, www.ReplacementWindowsForDummies.com has compiled a list of the top 25 window manufacturers who received high marks for producing energy efficient, durable and quality fenestration products, specifically windows, for U.S. homeowners.

Factors which were independently tested and reviewed in creating the list of the top energy efficient window manufacturers included thermal transmittance or 'U-factor', the solar heat gain coefficient or 'SHGC', visible transmittance or 'VT', air leakage or 'AL', and condensation resistance or 'CR'. Additional considerations included product performance over time, return on investment and demonstrated commitment to new product innovations.

ReplacementWindowsForDummies.com reviewed independent research from a number of leading non-profit research organizations specializing in efficient window performance testing and design component analysis in compiling the top 25 window manufacturers list.

To see the Top 25 List, go to http://www.replacementwindowsfordummies.com/articles/top-25-energy-efficient-window-manufacturers

ReplacementWindowsForDummies.com is designed for U.S. homeowners interested in replacing the windows in their homes and is published by VRG, the exclusive online licensee of the 'For Dummies' brand by John Wiley & Sons Publishing, Inc. ReplacementWindowsForDummies.com aims to provide usable, authoritative and readable content on replacement window products in the clear and direct 'For Dummies' style. VRG is independently owned and located in San Francisco, California.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Mike Salsieder, Kolbe's President, Serves on WDMA Executive Committee

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 07:33:27 GMT

Company President Elected Vice Chairman of WDMA Window Division

Wausau, Wis. (March 2012) – The national Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) announced Mike Salsieder, president and general counsel of Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Company, Inc., has been elected as Vice Chairman of the Window Division and will continue to serve as a member of the 2012-13 WDMA Executive Committee. Traditionally, leaders in this role continue in succession to become chair of WDMA's board of directors.

Salsieder's involvement with the association spans nearly 10 years. He has been a member of the WDMA Board of Directors since 2006. He also serves on the Board's Nominating Committee. In addition, Salsieder serves on a number of other boards of directors including the Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Company, Inc. Board of Directors, the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Board of Directors, and the North Central Technical College Foundation Board.

Many of Kolbe's employees also are active community and industry leaders and volunteers. Several serve on various WDMA committees and boards, and regularly attend WDMA conferences and seminars.

WDMA's mission is to define the standards of excellence in the residential and commercial window, door and skylight industry and advance these standards among industry members, while providing resources, education and professional programs designed to advance industry businesses and provide greater value for their customers.

The WDMA sponsors a Hallmark Certification program, which is considered a mark of excellence among architects, contractors and other specifiers. As part of the program, third-party administrators perform in-plant inspections including an audit of quality control procedures and processes. In addition, product samples and components are tested periodically by third-party testing laboratories. Kolbe is proud to be a part of the Hallmark Certification program. Search the Hallmark Certification database on the WDMA website at www.wdma.com.

Learn more about Kolbe's industry and company leadership at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe adds Ultra Folding Door 3-D Models to BIM Library

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:39:15 GMT

3-D Revit models help communicate products' visual & functional features

Wausau, Wis. (March 2012) – Kolbe has added a new Revit® 3-D model of its Ultra Series Folding Door to its collection of more than 1,000 window and door models.

Kolbe's building information modeling (BIM) tools can link with external data sources to instantly compile quantity takeoffs. The easy-to-use tool allows users to customize the doors' width, height, wall offset and the number of panels. Kolbe's Folding Doors can accommodate up to eight panels on each side that fold back against each other to create expansive openings that span up to 45-feet.

"Kolbe's Ultra Series 3-D Revit models help designers and builders more easily communicate the products' visual and functional features with the homeowners. Along with presenting the Folding Doors' many dimensions and varied configurations, the models shows the product's flush mount sill, choice of interior wood species and more than 30 exterior color options," says Laura Smith, Kolbe's architectural CAD coordinator.

Kolbe's new 3-D Folding Door Revit model is available online at:

Revit City <http://www.revitcity.com/downloads.php?action=view&object_id=12234>
Autodesk Seek <http://seek.autodesk.com/product/latest/agg/kolbekolbemillworkcoinc/Kolbe-Kolbe-Millwork-Co-Inc/KolbeDoorFoldingFlushMountSill>
CADdetails <http://www.caddetails.com/2004/product.asp?cid=1754&itm=cplist&hid8317>
Kolbe's website's "Architect Library" section <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/architectLibrary/index.cfm?pcID=7&pID=64>

In addition to BIM tools, visitors to Kolbe's online Architect Library can access 2-D drawings; warranties, installation and maintenance information, and online videos <http://youtu.be/9A8c4CgA0nk> to demonstrate Ultra Folding Doors' product operation and performance testing. Kolbe's website also contains air, water, structural and thermal reports, as well as a database for thousands of Kolbe's ENERGY STAR qualified products.

Further supporting energy and environmental goals, Kolbe's Ultra Series products have exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in durable coatings using a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be selected, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™, Green Globes™ and ENERGY STAR®.

For more information on Kolbe's Folding Door, please visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com. For support and webinars to help use Kolbe's 3-D models, please email architects@kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe’s impact resistant K-Force windows & doors provide coastal communities with safety, strength and beauty

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:25:43 GMT

Kolbe products will be on display at IBS 2012, booth W3729

Wausau, Wis. (Feb. 2012) – Appropriate for the Orlando setting, Kolbe's hurricane impact resistant products will be exhibited at the 2012 International Builders Show (IBS) in booth W3729. Kolbe offers impact certified casement, awning, double hung, transom, segment head and half-circle top windows, plus outswing entrance doors and lift and slide doors. All feature the strength and durability to withstand hurricane force winds and flying debris.

"The coastal regions offer some of North America's most breathtaking views," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "They also are subject to some of the country's most unpredictable, often volatile, weather patterns. Kolbe's breadth of impact resistant windows and doors help keep coastal communities safe, with the same beauty that can be found in non-impact products."

Kolbe's K-Force® impact products are constructed without unsightly brackets, visible rods or extra locks, resulting in traditional styling, clean design and easy operation. Tested extensively to meet or exceed the strict building codes of the coastal regions, K-Force window and door units are available in aluminum clad Ultra Series, all-wood Heritage Series and Windquest® Series vinyl products.

Windquest products meet requirements of the High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) and received notice of acceptance in compliance with Miami-Dade County codes, some of the most stringent requirements by any jurisdiction. These products use impact laminated double pane insulating glass as standard. The glass is designed to stay intact if it is broken, which has the added benefits of providing increased security and quieter interiors.

Kolbe's Ultra Series Sterling double hung windows with K-Force impact performance upgrades also have achieved HVHZ certification in the state of Florida, where wind speeds can exceed 140 miles per hour. In addition, several Ultra Series products have been certified to meet impact testing criteria for large missile impact Level D and Wind Zone 4 testing standards (IPD4). For example: Sterling double hungs, Majesta® double hung windows, and TerraSpan® lift and slide doors up to 10 feet tall.

Kolbe's Ultra Series products have exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in environmentally friendly, durable coatings using a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be selected, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™, Green Globes™ and ENERGY STAR®.

Kolbe's website contains a database for thousands of Kolbe's ENERGY STAR qualified products, as well as air, water, structural and thermal reports. The site's Architect Library and online resources can help simplify the research and specifying process. For example, design teams can easily communicate and visually customize many Ultra Series' product dimensions and functionality using Kolbe's 3D Revit® building information models (BIM). In addition to BIM tools, visitors can access 2-D drawings; warranties, installation and maintenance information, and online videos to demonstrate product operation and performance testing.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com and visit in-person with Kolbe representatives at booth W3729 during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Feb. 8-11, 2012.

More than 20,000 Kolbe products are ENERGY STAR qualified in both the U.S. & Canada

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:20:39 GMT

Kolbe products will be on display at IBS 2012, booth W3729

Wausau, Wis. (Feb. 2012) – A sampling of the more than 20,000 Kolbe products that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® criteria for both the U.S. and Canada will be exhibited at the 2012 International Builders Show (IBS) in booth W3729. Many of Kolbe's energy-efficient windows will be displayed with high-performance, double or triple pane insulating glass with LoE coatings.

Window products can qualify for ENERGY STAR based on their U-factor. Internationally, ENERGY STAR qualified windows are tested and certified by an independent, accredited agency. U-factors for the four Canadian climate zones range from 0.21 to 0.32, expressed in metric units as 1.20-1.80.

"Windows with low U-factors help homeowners save energy and save on their utility bills," explains Kolbe's product and market analyst, Lance Premeau, LEED® Green Associate. "In warm climates like Orlando, this means lessening the demand on air conditioning by blocking unwanted solar heat. In cool climates like Chicago, this means keeping the warm air in and the cold outside. Surpassing expectations in even the toughest climate zones, our triple pane windows are crafted and tested to meet the next level in energy efficiency."

At IBS, Kolbe's windows with triple pane glass include:

Ultra Series cottage-style Sterling double hung windows with LoE3-366 to balance solar control with high visibility, blocking more unwanted solar heat gain than other clear glass coatings. Performance divided lites (PDLs) maintain the intended energy efficiency and the cottage style windows' traditional aesthetic, where the top sash is proportionally smaller than the bottom.
Ultra Series Tilt-Turn windows can swing in like a casement or tilt-in like a hopper. The dual action functionality and stylish, flat PDL bars are coupled with LoE2-270 coated glass. This LoE coating is standard for most Kolbe products, blocking 96 percent of the sun's infrared heat and 83 percent of potentially-damaging UV rays.
Ultra Series EP casement and awning windows, including the oversized 60x84-inch awning with PDLs, also come standard with LoE²-270. Some windows can achieve U-factors as low as 0.19 (approximately 1.00 in metric).
Windquest® EP casement windows with LoE²-270 can match low U-factors of the Ultra Series EP units. These high performance vinyl windows allow a maximum air infiltration of only 0.01 cubic foot per minute, which is 30 times better than the industry standard. Demonstrating this exceptional performance, the windows are certified to achieve an R-PG50 (residential performance grade) rating and structural DP50 rating.
Available as either part of the Ultra Series aluminum clad product family or as part of the Heritage Series all-wood product line, Majesta® double hung windows round out Kolbe's collection of triple pane glass window choices, in a variety of LoE coatings, for products up to 6-by-12-feet.

In addition to energy performance, Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Rating System™, Green Globes™ and ENERGY STAR®. The Ultra Series products have exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in environmentally friendly, durable coatings using a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be selected, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com and visit in-person with Kolbe representatives at booth W3729 during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Feb. 8-11, 2012.

Kolbe maximizes views with oversized openings

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:46:48 GMT

Kolbe products will be on display at IBS 2012, booth W3729

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2012) – Responding to homeowners' desires for bigger and bigger openings, Kolbe will showcase several expansive windows and doors at the 2012 International Builders Show (IBS) in booth W3729. Custom products from Kolbe's Ultra Series will debut at IBS:

a 90-degree wall unit for corner views,
a 7-foot-tall awning window finished in black,
a four-panel-wide Folding Window System to complement the Folding Door System, and
a 10-foot-high door with a palm tree design.

Returning to IBS will be large-proportioned favorites such as a five-panel pocketing TerraSpan® lift and slide door, and two 10-foot-tall Majesta® double hung windows topped with transoms. These Majesta windows include one as an Ultra Series aluminum clad unit with double pane glass and one as a Heritage Series all-wood unit with triple pane glass.

"When homeowners imagine their dream home on their dream location, they picture a beautiful cityscape or landscape viewed through the largest windows and grandest entrances that they can conceive of," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "Personalizing the products to match the homeowners' individual design and style, we combine their vision with the practical aspects of energy efficiency, low maintenance and easy operation, regardless of their sizeable scale."

Wrapping a home's corner for continuous views and a contemporary look, Kolbe's Ultra Series 90-degree wall unit on display at IBS is comprised of Beveled Direct Set windows and awnings. Each side of the corner spans more than 10-by-10-feet, integrating awnings that conveniently open with motorized operators. Highlighting the wall units' modern aesthetic, the interior is neatly framed in maple and the exterior is clad with aluminum with a clear anodized finish for a sleek appearance. The aluminum contains recycled content.

Along with natural light, fresh air and maximized views, the 90-degree wall unit also demonstrates energy-efficient, insulating glass choices. One side has glass with LoE2-270 coating, which is standard on most Kolbe products. The other side is LoE³-366, which blocks 95% of UV light to protect furniture, carpets, curtains and wall coverings from fading. Keeping the interior comfortable, LoE³-366 also is formulated to reject unwanted solar heat, allow natural daylight and maintain outside views.

These energy-efficient glass options are available on more than 20,000 Kolbe products that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® ratings in both U.S. and Canada. Also at IBS, insulating with LoE²-270 coating is featured on Kolbe's oversized 60-by-84-inch Ultra Series awning windows. Performance divided lites (PDLs) provide visual interest without sacrificing thermal efficiency. Enhancing the distinctive appearance, both the interior wood and the aluminum clad exterior are finished in black. Special hardware ensures smooth, effortless operation, in spite of unit's heft and height.

Kolbe's Ultra Series products have exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in environmentally friendly, durable coatings in a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be selected, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™, Green Globes™ and ENERGY STAR®.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com and visit in-person with Kolbe representatives at booth W3729 during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Feb. 8-11, 2012.

Kolbe's Tilt-Turn and universal design options demonstrate functional versatility

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:41 GMT

Kolbe products will be on display at IBS 2012, booth W3729

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2012) – Breaking the confines of design flexibility, Kolbe's wide assortment of functional products will be on display at the 2012 International Builders Show (IBS) in booth W3729.

"Builders have more options than ever before," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "Beyond traditional casements and double hungs, Kolbe's wide product selection combines elegant, architectural detail and multi-functional, energy-efficient, easy-to-operate window and door choices."

Form and Function Working Together
With the simple turn of a handle, Kolbe's Heritage Series Tilt-Turn windows can swing in like a casement or tilt-in like a hopper. The all-wood Tilt-Turn windows shown at IBS will be crafted in cherry wood, finished with a custom stain color and accented with brass hardware. The model's 2-1/4-inch performance divided lite (PDL) bars provide both visual interest and energy efficiency.

Kolbe's Ultra Series product line offers another example of energy-efficient, Tilt-Turn windows. This dual-action product showcases triple pane glass; clear-coated, anigre interior wood species; and a recycled aluminum clad exterior anodized in a Champagne color for low-maintenance durability. The unit's flush sash, flat PDL bars, black hardware and exterior retractable screen create an appealing, yet functional aesthetic.

Ultra Series inswing casement windows are another versatile window option. The custom inswing window on display in Kolbe's booth will feature a copper-plated exterior finished in an oxide silver patina with an alder interior wood species with a Coffee Bean stain. LoE²-270 ThermaPlus double pane insulating glass with LoE2-270 coating is detailed with PDLs and ovolo glazing beads, and oil-rubbed finished hardware.

Universal Design Options
Kolbe's commitment to accessible design includes a variety of universal design window and door products, as well as specialized locks, handles, cranks and sills. During IBS, Kolbe will highlight its Garden-Aire sliding patio doors with sill ramp kits. Sill ramps improve access for people with mobility aids, such as walkers and wheelchairs.

"Universal design is the concept of making products and spaces accessible for people with various physical ability levels. It promotes freedom for the disabled. It allows the elderly to live independently longer," says Kolbe's product and market analyst, Lance Premeau, LEED® Green Associate.

Energy Efficient, Environmentally Friendly
Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Rating System™, Green Globes™ and ENERGY STAR®. More than 20,000 Kolbe products are ENERGY STAR qualified in both the U.S. and Canada.

Ultra Series products have exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in environmentally friendly, durable coatings in a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be chosen for trim, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

In addition to BIM tools, Kolbe's website offers 2-D drawings; warranties, installation and maintenance information, and online videos to demonstrate product operation and performance testing. Air, water, structural and thermal reports also are available online, including a database for thousands of Kolbe's ENERGY STAR-rated products.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com and visit in-person with Kolbe representatives at booth W3729 during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Feb. 8-11, 2012.

Kolbe Displays Customization, Personalization, Innovation

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:01:27 GMT

Kolbe products will be on display at IBS 2012, booth W3729

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2012) – Attendees at the International Builders' Show (IBS) in Orlando, Feb. 8-11, 2012, will be treated to an array of custom capabilities on display at Kolbe's booth W3729.

"At IBS 2012, we are highlighting the many design options that personalize Kolbe's windows and doors to fit the individual décor that not only make an impressive style statement, but also meet the homeowners' needs for long-term performance and dependable functionality," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "Whether looking for unique sizes, unusual shapes, rare wood species, colorful finishes, finely-crafted glass or universal design hardware, Kolbe can customize its products to make nearly every vision a reality."

Creative Customization
The many built-to-order options available for Kolbe's window and door products are the key to boundless creative possibilities. Customizable components include:

Unusual shapes, sizes and mull configurations
Broad choice of finishes, including patinas and one-of-a-kind hues
Full range of wood species, including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wood options
Extensive selection of glass choices, including high-performance and decorative glass,
True divided lites (TDLs) and performance divided lites (PDLs)
Wide variety of hardware, as well as trim options, screens and more

Innovative, Expansive, Impressive
Kolbe continues to break the innovation barrier. During IBS 2012, a four-unit wall will display Kolbe's Ultra Series Direct Set windows with exterior aluminum cladding shown in four different colors and three profiles – ogee, beveled and casement. The wall units will include multiple interior wood species – recycled heartpine, bamboo, makore and red cedar – plus other customized details.

A custom Ultra Series Folding Window System also will be shown. More than 8-feet-wide, it will feature four panels with exteriors clad in recycled aluminum and finished in a Gingersnap color. Kolbe's Folding Windows will use ogee casing with double pane insulating glass with LoE³-366 coating. Fir with a chestnut stain will be on the interior, along with hardware in matte black and a recessed sill. The special-request Folding Windows System complements Kolbe's Folding Door Systems' expansive openings.

More of Kolbe's impressive entrances on display at IBS include:
• Two contemporary-designed Ultra Series doors configured with asymmetrical panels that each contain four lites of frosted glass; a boldly-finished custom red, aluminum exterior; and a white oak interior with ebony stain;
• A copper clad exterior entrance with marbled black oxide patina, historically-styled glass, bronze finish hardware and casement sidelites – courtesy of Kolbe's subsidiary company, Point Five Windows & Doors;
• A five-panel pocketing TerraSpan® lift and slide unit with aluminum exterior finished in a Green Tea Leaf color, an interior of alder wood with a red wheat stain, rustic umber hardware, a recessed sill with black anodized finish, glass with LoE2-270 coating, and a Phantom® electric, retractable screen; and
• An Ultra Series 10-foot-tall outswing door with a one- piece, 12-inch bottom rail and decorative, glass lite with a palm tree design created using PDLs

Great Looks with Less Labor
When time is of the essence and aesthetic compromise is nonnegotiable, Kolbe's "Square Out/Half Circle In" Ultra Series Sterling window unit simulates the appearance of a true segment head. "This approach achieves the same great look, and saves time on the installation," explains Bremer.

The model shown at IBS features a maple interior, an aluminum exterior finished in a Sand color, and glass with LoE2-270 coating. The top sash has PDLs that creates eight "lites." Rustic umber hardware and a retractable screen also are used.

Energy Efficient, Environmentally Friendly
"Beyond the visually-striking, architectural detailing, Kolbe's products are crafted with exceptional attention to quality. Our windows and doors are manufactured with high performance, reliable operation and longevity in mind," notes Bremer.

The Ultra Series product lines displayed at IBS feature exteriors clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces may be finished in environmentally friendly, durable coatings and a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be chosen for trim, such as those certified by the FSC. Kolbe products' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™ and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™.

Online Tools 24/7/365
Kolbe's Architect Library and online resources can help simplify the research and specifying process. For example, design teams can easily communicate and visually customize many Ultra Series product dimensions and functionality using Kolbe's 3D Revit® building information models (BIM). In addition to BIM tools, Kolbe's website offers 2-D drawings; air, water, structural and thermal reports; warranties, installation and maintenance information, and online videos to demonstrate product operation and performance testing.

Learn more about Kolbe products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com and visit in-person with Kolbe representatives at booth W3729 during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Feb. 8-11, 2012.

Kolbe Windows Contribute Architectural Integrity to Renovation

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:31:59 GMT

Award-winning, iconic, academic building exceeds state energy code by 30%

Wausau, Wis. (Dec. 2011) – The University of Minnesota's historic Folwell Hall completed three years of extensive renovation, just time for the 2011 academic year. Students, faculty and staff now enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient interior without sacrificing the exterior's classically collegiate character. Contributing to this delicate balance of architectural preservation and modernization, Kolbe provided nearly 500 traditionally styled, high performance, low maintenance windows.

A fixture on the National Register of Historic Places, Folwell Hall's Jacobethan architecture was inspired by the English Renaissance Revival style. Clarence H. Johnston, Sr., served as the architect-of-record on the 1907 building and on many other iconic, Minnesota structures. In addition to Folwell Hall, he designed the University's Northrop Auditorium, Walter Library, Williams Arena, a number of buildings on the St. Paul campus, and the original Grandstand at the Minnesota State Fair.

Folwell Hall's exterior combines Jacobean and Elizabethan styles of architecture in an array of gargoyles, sculpted faces and animals; 28 decorative, naturally-ventilating chimneys; flattened, cusped Tudor arches and steep roof gables; terra-cotta brickwork; and lighter stone trims around the windows and doors.

Although the $15 million exterior renovation restored much of the grandeur, the 127,700-square-foot interior still left much to be desired. Stairwells were too narrow for emergency stretchers, offices were cramped, and the more than 12,000 students that met in Folwell's 30 classrooms were at the mercy of wildly fluctuating temperatures caused by outdated, inefficient windows and an antiquated HVAC system.

"With some of these classrooms, you have a choice between very noisy or very uncomfortable," said Gary Oehlert, associate dean for planning in the College of Liberal Arts in an interview with the Minnesota Daily. "Turn on the air conditioner on and you can't hear. Turn the air conditioner off and everyone roasts."

The building's $34.5 million interior renovation project set out to remedy this problem by replacing 400 existing windows with new energy-efficient units from Kolbe. National Window Associates, Inc. selected Kolbe's Ultra Series Sterling double hung units with standard LoE²-270 double-pane insulating glass to meet the University's requirements, as guided by Miller Dunwiddie Architects and McGough Construction.

"Miller Dunwiddie is involved with a number of preservation projects, including many on the University's campus. Two of the main goals for Folwell Hall were to protect its historic significance and to improve its energy efficiency," reiterates Miller Dunwiddie's project manager, Denita Lemmon, AIA. "Kolbe's very large double hung window system met the both the aesthetic and performance specification. State-bonded building projects must meet B3 Minnesota Sustainability Building Guidelines."

B3 stands for "Buildings, Benchmarks and Beyond." Minnesota legislation requires compliance with Minnesota Sustainability Buildings 2030 (B3-MSGB Version 2.1). These guidelines are designed to be compatible with national guidelines, such as the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System. Under Minnesota's B3 guidelines, both new construction and major renovations must exceed the state energy code by at least 30%.

"Sustainable design is a means to reduce energy expenditures, enhance the health, well-being and productivity of the building occupants, and improve the quality of the natural environment," according to the MSGB website. "All of these can contribute to high-performance buildings with lower life cycle costs. To move toward ensuring these outcomes, the guidelines attempt to quantify the human, community, environmental, and life-cycle economic costs and benefits for each project."

National Window Associates' sales manager, Jim Christiansen, elaborates, "For the prestigious Folwell Hall renovation, we helped emulate the original windows. The building's century-old wood windows had been replaced in the 1980s with a basic, aluminum system, which had hidden some of the historic, architectural details. The replacement system we recommended integrated Kolbe's aluminum-clad wood windows with custom, aluminum panning to replicate the original, architectural vision."

Lemmon adds, "With the 1980's replacement system, we couldn't exactly match the originals. We had some photos, and when Folwell Hall's exterior was restored, historic trim was discovered underneath the '80's aluminum panning."

"To retain as much of the historical nature of the window openings the interior trim was left in place," says Tim Mahanna, McGough's project superintendent. "Over the years the trim sustained quite a bit of damage. The cracked, removed or damaged trim was replaced. It was a bit of a challenge to replicate this trim, as the profiles of the existing trim are not available today. We removed many samples of trim from the existing window openings. Our supplier had a machine shop cut new ‘knifes' for the shaper so that the new replacement trim matched the existing profiles. All of the existing trim was stripped, re-stained and several finish coats were applied to achieve the ‘new' look. Working closely with Kolbe on the stain color, we were able to achieve a really nice match."

Kolbe created custom "Folwell" finishes: The interior trim mimicked both color and grain with white oak stained to a deep, dark brown. The exterior's recycled aluminum was painted in a custom gray 70% fluoropolymer, which is tested to meet AAMA 2605-05, the industry's most stringent performance requirements for finishes.

"All of the windows are rectangular in shape, but custom in size. There are 16 different window sizes on Folwell, the largest of which is 38-3/4 x 92-1/4," notes John Fenn, Kolbe's estimator in commercial sales. "Regardless of the dimensions, the windows are crafted for a uniform, traditional appearance and smooth, easy operation. Special keyed custodial locks were added to secure the windows."

Fenn continues, "For this large project, Kolbe shipped the units in phases. As each Kolbe trailer of windows was delivered, the field crew worked its way around Folwell Hall, floor by floor, elevation by elevation." McGough's on-site team removed and replaced the existing windows throughout the cold Minnesota winter, from November 2010 to March 2011.

"Kolbe delivered as promised. We were impressed with the quality of the product," says Mahanna. He explains that much preparation was needed on the building before the first Kolbe window in place. "There was asbestos caulking and lead paint that had to be abated and remediated, respectively. After that process was completed by the U of M contractor, our crew started the process of installing the windows."

The total renovation of Folwell Hall was completed in August 2011. Along with the new windows, the renovation team updated the building's HVAC system, which eliminated the need for the more than 50 large window air conditioners that had been used to cool classrooms and staff offices. Other interior renovations included:

improving the building's layout,
equipping classrooms with digital technology,
installing three new elevators and two wider stairwells,
replacing the sprinkler and fire alarm systems,
removing hazardous materials such as asbestos in floor tiles and walls, and
preserving the marble and terrazzo floors, original doors and ornate woodwork.

Addressing the achievements of Folwell Hall's renovation, Scott Elton, assistant to the associate dean for planning in the University of Minnesota's College of Liberal Arts, stated, "The environment in which students learn is…dramatically improved, both in terms of the HVAC/sound issues and comfort, and also in the connectivity of the classrooms to the world."

Joining the University in their praise, Folwell Hall's renovation team has earned many accolades including from the City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development Department, Finance and Commerce's Top Projects, the Minneapolis Chapter of the American Institute of Architects' Merit Awards, The Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, Preservation Alliance of Minnesota, and Preserve Minneapolis.

Folwell Hall, 9 Pleasant Street SE, Minneapolis, Minn.
Owner: University of Minnesota; Minneapolis; www.umn.edu
Architect: Miller Dunwiddie; Minneapolis; www.millerdunwiddie.com
Construction manager: McGough; Minneapolis; www.mcgough.com
Window distributor: National Window Associates, Inc.; Rogers, Minn.; www.nationalwindowassoc.com/
Window manufacturer: Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.; Wausau, Wis.; www.kolbe-kolbe.com

TerraSpan Doors offer Impact Resistance

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:43:04 GMT

Kolbe's Lift & Slide Doors up to 10' Tall have Achieved Impact Certification

Wausau, Wis. (Oct. 2011) – Kolbe's Ultra Series TerraSpan® Lift and Slide doors' 10-foot-tall units have been certified to meet the impact testing criteria for large missile impact Level D, design pressure (DP) 45 rating, and Wind Zone 4 testing standards (IPD4). The IPD4 rating indicates these products are an excellent choice for hurricane areas, as well for any region of the country that is subject to severe storms or gale-force winds.

Successfully completing the extensive testing to meet or exceed the strict building codes of the coastal region, TerraSpan’s doors join Kolbe's K-Force® impact products. "These products are specially designed with the strength to withstand hurricane force winds and flying debris, while presenting the same beautiful appearance for which Kolbe windows and doors are known," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing.

TerraSpan's large panels can pocket into a wall or stack together, and can be arranged in more than 900 operational configurations. A maximum of 10 stacking or pocketing door panels in widths up to 6-feet may be specified for a single, expansive opening. Design teams can easily communicate and visually customize TerraSpan doors' dimensions and functionality using Kolbe's 3-D Revit® building information models (BIM). In addition to BIM tools, the website offers 2-D drawings; air, water, structural and thermal reports; warranties, installation and maintenance information, and online videos to demonstrate product operation and performance testing.

Along with impact resistance, TerraSpan doors are available with climate-appropriate, high performance glass options that balance daylighting and energy efficiency. These units also feature architecturally-correct coped corners where stiles meet rails, universal design ADA-compliant bottom panel rails, and a choice of screens, hardware, finishes, exterior colors and interior wood species.

As part of the Ultra Series product line, TerraSpan doors' exteriors are clad in low-maintenance, extruded aluminum that contains recycled content. The outer, metal surfaces are finished in environmentally-friendly, durable coatings and a broad palette of colors. For the interior, a range of sustainably-harvested wood species can be chosen for trim, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Kolbe’s doors' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™ and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™.

Learn more about Kolbe's TerraSpan doors and impact resistant products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Adds 3-D Models of Direct Set Windows to BIM Library

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 11:08:45 GMT

Beveled Direct Set SketchUp and Revit Models Available

Wausau, Wis. (Oct. 2011) -- Kolbe expanded its library of 2-D models and 3-D building information modeling (BIM) tools to include Ultra Series Beveled Direct Set windows. Complementing contemporary design projects, these durable, aluminum clad windows are glazed to the interior and direct set in the heavy-duty extruded aluminum frame. The profile is integral to the frame, providing detail and strength.

The new Revit® and Google™ SketchUp models for Ultra Series Beveled Direct Set windows are located in Kolbe’s online Architect Library <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/architectLibrary/index.cfm?pcID=7&pID=169>. As part of Kolbe’s growing collection of more than 1,000 window and door models, these new models can link with external data sources to instantly compile quantity takeoffs for residential and commercial building projects.

These easy-to-use models allow users to customize the width, height, exterior trim, casement profiles, and other features. A wide range of wood species is available including those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). FSC-certified options can be coupled with energy efficient glass choices.

Kolbe’s Ultra Series Beveled Direct Set windows include LoE-270 insulating glass with argon gas. Due to the glass unit being set directly into the frame without a sash, these windows maximize the view and daylight. Plus, the detailed sticking allows for Kolbe’s performance divided lite (PDL) options, grilles-in-the-airspace, or interior wood removable grilles.

The exterior aluminum clad frames contain recycled content, further supporting environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative’s Green Globes™, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Rating System™. The frames may be in a broad palette of distinctive colors aid in achieving eye-catching designs.

Learn more about Kolbe’s Direct Set window products and models at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Three 2011 Solar Decathlon Projects include Kolbe Windows

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 08:33:10 GMT

Ultra & Windquest Series windows featured in concept homes

Wausau, Wis. (September 2011) – Enhancing efficient use of renewable energy, three of the 20 entries in the 2011 Solar Decathlon feature triple pane windows from Kolbe <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/>: Appalachian State University, Purdue University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). Purdue University and UIUC also were among the five teams that presented their competition concepts at the 2011 International Builders’ Show.

Helping homeowners lower their heating bills by effectively and efficiently keeping the warm air inside, Kolbe’s triple pane glass windows come standard with insulating glass and LoE coatings designed to achieve low U-factors. Kolbe’s Windquest® EP vinyl windows <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/products/index.cfm?pcID=4&pID=57&pseries=5> and Ultra EP aluminum clad wood windows <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/whatsNew/index.cfm?pcID=2&pID=153> can achieve U-factors as low as 0.19 (approximately 1.00 in metric), as exemplified in the 2011 Solar Decathlon entries.

On Thurs., Sept. 29, 11 a.m., “Solar 101: Uncovering Opportunities of Advanced Building Envelopes” a consumer workshop delves into the technology behind windows, roofs, walls and building-integrated photovoltaic cells and the opportunities for homeowners to incorporate the latest technologies in their homes. This workshop and many other events <http://www.solardecathlon.gov/event_schedule.html> are free and open to the public, held at the National Mall's West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C.

The Solar Decathlon challenges 20 universities and more than 15,000 students from around the world to design and build solar powered homes. Each school’s team transports its entry to the National Mall in Washington, D.C., where it is constructed, operated and visited from September 23 to October 2. Open to the public, the event attracts more than 100,000 visitors as well as national media attention.

Entries are judged on performance in 10 categories: architecture, market appeal, engineering, communications, affordability, comfort zone, hot water, appliances, home entertainment, and energy balance. New this year, an affordability contest rewards teams that build houses with estimated costs at or below $250,000. The Affordability Contest’s winner will be decided Wed., Sept. 27. The Engineering Contest will be held Thurs., Sept. 29 and the Communications Contest will be announced Fri., Sept. 30.

The 2011 Solar Decathlon’s overall winner is the team that earns the most points in all categories and contests, demonstrating the best blend of affordability, consumer appeal and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency. Beyond the competition, the ultimate objective is to increase education and awareness of cost-saving opportunities presented by clean-energy products.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in partnership with its National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the first Solar Decathlon was held in 2002 and has since occurred biennially in 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011.

For more information on the competition, please visit the Department of Energy at:
http://www.solardecathlon.gov
http://www.twitter.com/solar_decathlon
http://www.facebook.com/DOESolarDecathlon/
http://www.youtube.com/user/DOESolarDecathlon/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/solar_decathlon/

North Carolina’s Appalachian State University designed the Solar Homestead (#205) to embody “independence and ingenuity -- qualities reflected in the heritage of traditional homesteads. The Solar Homestead fuses these values into an innovative, ultra-efficient house that is adaptable, self-sufficient, affordable, and attractive. The concept of the ‘modern homestead’ is manifested throughout the house.”

Contributing to this vision, Kolbe provide its Ultra EP casements, picture windows and doors with triple pane glass. A clear anodize, no-VOC, environmentally friendly finish protects the products’ exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. Kolbe offers a range of sustainably harvested wood species for the interior trim, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Offering additional performance and peace-of-mind to homeowners in coastal areas like North Carolina, stainless steel hinges on the Ultra EP products contribute to attaining Design Pressure (DP) ratings as high as DP80 for casements.

After competing in Solar Decathlon 2011, the Solar Homestead will travel throughout North Carolina to promote renewable energy education. The team will teach visitors the value of sustainable technology and environmental preservation. When the tour concludes, the house will return to Appalachian State University to serve as an educational tool for future Mountaineers.

For more information on Appalachian State University’s Solar Homestead, please visit:
http://www.thesolarhomestead.com/
http://www.twitter.com/SolarHomestead
http://www.facebook.com/SolarHomestead
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheSolarHomestead
ftp://eeftp.ee.doe.gov/video/2011_footage/205_appalachian_state.mov
http://www.flickr.com/photos/thesolarhomestead/

Purdue University named its entry “INhome,” short for Indiana home (#305). Designed to feature “efficient systems and sustainable design without sacrificing modern comforts and amenities… the INhome is a fully functional, yet practical net-zero energy home designed for a typical Midwestern consumer in today’s cost-competitive residential market.

Kolbe supplied Ultra EP casement and awning windows with triple pane glass. The windows’ recycled aluminum clad exteriors are painted in a durable Ultra Pure White 70% fluoropolymer finish, verified to meet the industry’s most stringent testing and backed with a 30-year warranty. The awnings were installed with an electric operator to assist with natural ventilation, highlighting the project’s focus on technological innovations to optimize energy performance.

According to Team Purdue, “One practical method to make solar powered residences a reality and cost-effective is to rely on passive systems. Passive design utilizes natural processes for heating, cooling and lighting. In order to benefit from passive daylighting, the INhome is designed to face south, maximizing sunlight exposure. Passive air ventilation from a mixture of automated and manual windows provides cooling when needed. Passive heating design helps to maintain indoor temperatures during the winter without relying on energy usage from the HVAC system.”

After the Solar Decathlon, the INhome will be placed in an existing neighborhood in Lafayette, Ind., as part of a broader revitalization effort.

For more information on Purdue University’s INhome, please visit:
http://www.purdue.edu/inhome/
http://www.twitter.com/Purdue_IN_home
http://www.facebook.com/PurdueINhomeSolarDecathlon2011
ftp://eeftp.ee.doe.gov/video/2011_footage/201_purdue_university.mov http://www.youtube.com/user/TechPurdue

Illinois’ Re_home by UIUC (#201) uses a rapid deployment strategy to offer an immediate and sustainable solution for a family left without a home in the vent of a natural disaster. Designed with affordable materials and readily available technologies for increased efficiency and comfort, Re_home also incorporates universal design features that comply with the American Disabilities Act.

A highly insulated, double-layered envelope minimizes thermal transfer between the interior and exterior. The UIUC team says that this helps in “drastically reducing the energy needs of the home. Glazing on the home is kept to a minimum, and when used is carefully placed and strategically shaded to control solar gains and maximize daylighting.”

Kolbe helped accomplish these goals with its Windquest EP triple pane glass windows. These were installed on the north and south façade to minimize unwanted solar heat gain and maximize thermal performance. These low-maintenance units also are may be specified with impact performance for coastal areas and high wind zones. Certified to meet both large missile impact Level D and Wind Zone 4 testing standards, Kolbe’s Windquest Series product line received notice of acceptance in compliance with Miami-Dade County codes, some of the most stringent requirements by any jurisdiction.

After the Solar Decathlon, the UIUC team would like the house to be used for its intended purpose by offering it to a family in need. “By finding a balance between good design and smart planning, the Re_home responds to the physical and emotional needs of the families while overall demonstrating how environmentally aware living can be brought to the forefront of a community-led recovery effort.”

For more information on University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Re_home, please visit:
http://solardecathlon.illinois.edu
http://www.twitter.com/Re_home
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Re_home/192176687460892
http://vimeo.com/ui7
http://www.youtube.com/user/UIUCSolarDecathlon
ftp://eeftp.ee.doe.gov/video/2011_footage/305_university_of_illinois.mov
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58744079@N03/

Red Eye Brewing’s Sustainability Goals

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:01:24 GMT

Kolbe Windows in Local Sustainability Project

Wausau, Wis. (July 2011) – Located in Wausau, Wis., Red Eye Brewing Company produces and sells craft beers complimented by dishes made from home-grown ingredients. The owners' preference for locally-sourced, environmentally-responsible materials, their attention to detail and their appreciation for quality, contributed to their selection of Kolbe's windows and doors.
"Red Eye truly believes that our success as a business is measured through our commitment to the community and the environment, paired with sound economic practices," says co-owner Brett Danke.

Meeting this vision, River House Architects Ltd. "has always designed from a conscientious, sustainable point-of-view," explains Tharen Gorski, AIA, CSI. "We helped take a not very nice warehouse building that used to be an auto parts store and repurpose it as a brewery and restaurant. We used what was there and worked everything around the existing features and making improvements where we needed."

As the architectural firm's president, Gorski drew from more than 30 years of experience to design the Red Eye Brewing project. His familiarity with Kolbe's products extends throughout his career. For him, Kolbe's Ultra Series is a "top choice for clad wood products. They have stayed true to their mission and to their product quality." He adds that Kolbe's products "fit well with the architecture and achieved the look we were seeking."

The main entrance's double doors have glass lites and raised panels, as well as custom nosing and commercial hardware. Presenting a warm welcome, the doors have a Chutney fluoropolymer finish, which creates a striking exterior, along with 3-1/2-inch flat extruded aluminum casing. Ultra Series products include recycled aluminum content in the exterior cladding.

"These are good, smart products that speak of quality," Gorski continues. "When someone opens the solid, thick wood doors, they subconsciously feel they are entering a place of quality. When they pass through the French doors onto the patio, they sense a strong, bold, monumental presence; likewise with the windows."

Kolbe's Ultra Series stacked casements and awnings also enhance the property's appearance and the patrons' views. During the summer, the awnings allow ventilation above the stationary picture windows. The windows' interior showcases a custom beechwood with a factory-applied red wheat stain. The awnings and patio doors feature full glass lites with 1-1/8-inch-wide performance divided lite bars. This maintains energy efficiency while simulating the look of true divided lites.

"Our dining room windows, French doors and entry door were made right here in Wausau at Kolbe. The windows' LoE³-366 glass reduces heat loss in the winter and blocks harmful UV rays," says Danke.

"The galvanized steel exterior also reflects heat and reduces cooling loads," notes Gorski. The galvanized steel is the visible part of what the architect calls "the building's ‘exolation,' where the existing masonry was insulated on the outside to maintain the thermal mass on the inside. This works in conjunction with the windows' natural ventilation to help cool the building."

Bringing this systematic, sustainable, whole building design to life, S.D. Ellenbecker served as a hands-on general contractor, including the installation of Kolbe's windows and doors. Opened in 2008, the 6,000-square-foot space's other green building features include:

location is a quick walk for downtown shoppers, near a designated bike route and one block from the bus terminal;
reclaimed Redwood fence, planed by hand, and re-used as wood trim;
waterless urinals, which save a combined 90,000 gallons of water per year;
spent grain from the brewing process is provided to a local farmer, which he uses as a supplement for his cattle, eliminating it from the landfill;
wood burning oven is fired with locally-sourced hardwoods, a renewable source of energy, which avoids the consumption of natural gas and electricity for primary cooking needs;
solar water heat, which further reduces the consumption of natural gas and electrical power, equating to nearly 35 years of "free hot water" for use in the brewery and its restaurant.

Architect: River House Architects Ltd.; Schofield, Wis.

General contractor: S.D. Ellenbecker, Inc.; Athens, Wis.; http://sdellenbecker.com/

Window manufacturer: Kolbe and Kolbe Millwork Company, Inc.; Wausau, Wis.;
Ultra Series products – two sets of double entrance doors, three sets of double
French doors, four sets of awning over fixed windows; http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/

Sterling Double Hungs Earn HVHZ

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 08:48:52 GMT

Kolbe Windows Meet Needs in Hurricane Zones

Wausau, Wis. (June 2011) – Without modifying its traditional architectural aesthetic or ease of operation, Kolbe's Ultra Series Sterling double hung windows have attained High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) certification in the state of Florida.

Kolbe's Ultra Series Sterling double hungs not only meet criteria for the HVHZ certification, but also meet the criteria for large missile impact Level D, and Wind Zone 4 testing standards (IPD4). The IPD4 rating indicates these products are an excellent choice for hurricane areas, as well for any region of the country that is subject to severe storms or gale-force winds.

Sterling double hung windows feature impact resistance for protection in severe weather and are constructed without unsightly brackets, visible rods or extra locks. All products come standard with concealed jambliners and energy efficient LoE coating. Insulating units with the LoE coating further reduce solar heat gain and improve energy efficiency.

Assisting with other environmental goals, Kolbe presents a range of sustainably-harvested wood species for the interior trim, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). For low maintenance exteriors, Ultra Series Sterling double hung aluminum clad windows include a 30-year limited exterior finish warranty.

Accommodating fresh air and natural ventilation without inviting pests, GreenGuard® Certified BetterVue® mesh is standard on screens for Kolbe's Sterling double hung windows. The innovative lock on Sterling double hung window has a dual-positioning lever. Easy-to-use, it allows the sash to be unlocked and tilted in for cleaning, while boosting the unit's performance.

Learn more about Kolbe's Ultra Series Sterling double hung windows and impact resistant products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Introduces New Profile for Direct Set Windows

Tue, 03 May 2011 14:53:27 GMT

Beveled Direct Set is Big on Views and Options

Wausau, Wis. (May 2011) – Kolbe presents Ultra Series Beveled Direct Set windows to complement contemporary design projects. These durable, aluminum clad windows are glazed to the interior and direct set in the heavy duty extruded aluminum frame. The profile is integral to the frame, providing detail and strength.

"We are pleased to expand our Direct Set offering with this contemporary styling, while providing the expected performance and a complementary aesthetic to match our other Ultra Series products," says Kolbe’s product and market analyst, Lance Premeau, LEED® Green Associate.

Emphasizing energy performance, the windows include LoE-270 insulating glass with argon gas. Glass also may be specified with other LoE coatings for improved thermal performance, laminated glass for impact resistance, patterned or obscure glass for privacy, or finely-crafted glass for visual interest.

Due to the glass unit being set directly into the frame without a sash, these windows maximize the view and daylight. Plus, the detailed sticking allows for Kolbe's performance divided lite (PDL) options, grilles-in-the-airspace, or interior wood removable grilles. On the interior, pine is the standard wood species. A wide range of wood species is available including those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

FSC-certified options can be coupled with energy efficient glass choices to further support environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Rating System™. The exterior aluminum clad frames contain recycled content and may be finished with a 70% fluoropolymer coating or a custom anodized metallic finish. A broad palette of distinctive colors aid in achieving eye-catching designs.

Learn more about Kolbe’s Direct Set window products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Adds Videos to Website, Social Media Sites

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:52:52 GMT

Kolbe Videos are available on YouTube and Facebook

Wausau, Wis. (May 2011) – Kolbe has expanded its online library of videos at www.kolbe-kolbe.com/gallery (http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/gallery/index.cfm?pcID=5&pID=33). The website's video collection now includes:
•    Demonstrations of Kolbe's latest window and door products, including universal design and sustainable options;
•    Slideshows from recent tradeshows and conferences;
•    Testing Kolbe's products for earthquakes and impacts;
•    Tutorials on Revit® and Google™ SketchUp 3-D models for Kolbe's products.

"We work in a very visual industry, where people want to see the products in action and look closely at the traditional design detailing. If they can't experience the product in person, this is the next best thing," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "As for our video tutorials, we understand many people learn better through multi-media platforms where they can see, hear, pause and rewind. Best of all, people can return to these videos whenever they want a refresher."

All of these videos also are available on Kolbe's YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/KolbeandKolbe). A link to the YouTube channel and many other images can be found at Kolbe's Facebook Fan Page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kolbe-Windows-and-Doors/133639474251). Kolbe encourages visitors to "like," "favorite," share, comment and contribute their own stories and experiences with Kolbe's products.

To learn more about Kolbe's online resources, videos and social media connections, please visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Architectural Influences: Exploring Elements of Sustainable Design

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:08:03 GMT

Kolbe's AIA/CES Tour includes Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin & the Aldo Leopold Legacy Center

Wausau, Wis. (April 2011) – Kolbe helps architects gain sustainable design knowledge and learning units (LUs) through American Institute of Architects' continuing education system (AIA/CES). Its 1.5-day event, "Architectural Influences: Exploring Elements of Sustainable Design," offers an opportunity to tour architectural icons in Wisconsin and earn 8.5 LUs. Architects who successfully complete this entire 1.5-day CES event qualify for two health, safety and welfare (2 HSW) credits and one sustainable design (1 SD) credit, which will be recorded with the AIA.

Kolbe's "Architectural Influences" AIA/CES event includes:

Tour of Taliesin® in Spring Green, Wis. - visit the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright's home, private studio, and the campus of The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture
Tour of Aldo Leopold Legacy Center in Baraboo, Wis. - explore one of the two highest-ranking LEED® buildings in North America
Tour of Cardinal® Float Glass Plant in Portage, Wis. - watch the process of sand, limestone and other materials as they become glass for windows and doors
Tour of Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork in Wausau, Wis. - follow the process of custom window and door manufacturing
Presentation of "Finishing Touches: Enhancements, Options & Trends for Windows and Doors"
Review of Kolbe’s product series - learn how they can meet the needs of nearly any project
Presentation of Kolbe's 3-D Revit^® and Google™ SketchUp window and door models – see how building information models (BIM) allow for greater design flexibility

Upcoming dates for Kolbe's "Architectural Influences" AIA/CES event are:

June 6-7 (full)
July 18-19
Aug. 22-23
Sept. 26-27
Oct. 17-18

Tours are limited to groups of 10 or less and are filled on a first come, first served basis. Please contact Kolbe's Training and Tour Department at 715-847-0707 or email architects@kolbe-kolbe.com for more information.

Kolbe Offers Assistance with LEED, CALGreen

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 07:21:31 GMT

Windows, Doors & Guidance for Sustainable, Green Design

Wausau, Wis. (April 2011) – Kolbe provides sustainable design support for architects, builders and owners to achieve their green building goals and navigate certification programs, such as the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™ and the California Green Building Standards (CALGreen) Code.

"Understanding green building standards and practices can be challenging," acknowledges Kolbe's product and market analyst, Lance Premeau, LEED Green Associate. "There are several organizations that have developed rating systems to help guide the green building processes for both residential and commercial properties. Now, some of these guidelines are being adopted into code requirements for cities, counties, states and federal building projects. While their criteria vary, they share similar goals."

Helping customers meet the criteria of these organizations and jurisdictions, Premeau and his colleagues at Kolbe answer green building technical questions and serve as liaisons to the company's manufacturing team. Kolbe's staff demonstrates its commitment the environment through its practices and initiatives – from the sourcing and recycled content of its materials, to the crafting and finishing of the durable products.

Kolbe's window and door products also contribute to green building projects: Daylighting, outside views and natural ventilation are complemented by energy efficient performance, sustainable wood species, and eco-friendly finishes.

Kolbe earned Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody Certification: No. SCS-COC 002040. FSC-certified wood is an option on many Kolbe window and door products. Kolbe's selection of interior wood species also includes Lamboo®, an engineered, laminated veneer bamboo (LVB) product. As a rapidly renewable material, Lamboo allows a four- to six-year harvest cycle, about half of the harvest cycle allowable under LEED.

Kolbe's products are finished with sensitivity to environmental air quality and the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enhancing these long-lasting, low-maintenance window and doors. Kolbe's broad palette of finishes protect the products' exteriors, which includes cladding manufactured from recycled aluminum.

Standard glass used in Kolbe's products contains 25-30% recycled content. High performance glass options are available for quiet interiors, thermal comfort and utility cost savings. To meet the new ENERGY STAR® criteria for U.S. and Canadian climate zones, Kolbe's triple pane glass windows come standard with insulating glass and LoE coatings designed to achieve low U-factors. Kolbe's Windquest EP vinyl windows and Ultra EP aluminum clad wood windows can achieve U-factors as low as 0.19 (approximately 1.00 in metric).

"We stand behind the durability and performance of all Kolbe products, which is evident by our extensive transferable warranties," adds Premeau. "By choosing high quality products that will last for decades, our customers have taken important steps toward reducing their carbon footprints."

To learn more about Kolbe's green initiatives and products, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Shares Online Calculators, Architectural Tools

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 07:08:03 GMT

Drawings, Calculators, Webinars, Tutorial Videos & More

Wausau, Wis. (April 2011) – Assisting with architectural calculations, Kolbe's online Architect Library features tools to assist with anchorage installation and wind pressure requirements.

Kolbe's WindFacts <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/media/documents/WindFacts.xls> downloadable workbook provides basic background information about wind speed and wind pressures. Created for design professionals, this calculation tool helps determine required wind pressures of Kolbe wood and vinyl windows and doors.

The downloadable Installation Anchor Calculator <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/media/installMaintain/inst-Anchorcalc_06081.xls> helps calculate the number of installation anchors and clips needed to install Kolbe products.

In addition to these calculation tools, Kolbe's online Architect Library <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/architectLibrary/index.cfm> also presents a convenient, online destination to access:

A searchable database of 2-D and 3-D drawings, CSI specifications, dimension calculations and size limitations, and emergency escape and rescue/clear opening dimensions;
A searchable database of products’ energy performance for windows and doors' U-Value, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Visible Transmission and Condensation Resistance information that have gone through the National Fenestration Rating Council testing process, and identified for ENERGY STAR® guidelines in U.S. and Canada;
A summary of 2011 tax credits for energy efficient windows and doors with links to additional details;
Downloadable manuals for acoustic performance and for air, water, structural test reports;
Links and connections to ratings organizations, industry associations, as well as Kolbe's e-newsletter, Facebook Fan Page, webinars, video tutorials, American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System courses and green and sustainability resources.

To learn more, please visit Kolbe’s Architect Library at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Offers 17,000 NFRC-Certified Products

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 08:07:01 GMT

Proven Energy Efficient Windows & Doors

Wausau, Wis. (March 2011) – More than 17,000 of Kolbe's window and door products are listed in the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) Certified Products Database. Energy values provided by the NFRC are used in the ENERGY STAR® program. The thermal values also are used for levels set for the International Energy Conservation Codes (IECC). Any agency or municipality that sets thermal performance requirements accepts the NFRC rating system, such as the 2009 version of IECC.

Many Kolbe products in the NFRC Certified Products Database meet or exceed ENERGY STAR guidelines in the U.S. Many also have been approved in Canada. ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy. The program's goal is to conserve consumers' financial resources and to conserve environmental resources through the use of energy efficient products and practices. To rate the efficiency of windows and doors, ENERGY STAR relies on NFRC ratings.

NFRC ratings are based on the performance of the total window or door unit (both glass and frame). This helps consumers, designers and builders to directly compare the energy performance of products of different construction. The online NFRC Certified Products Database allows visitors to search and find certified products. Product performance data listed in the directory can be reviewed and compared, such as U-Factors and Solar Heat Gain Coefficients.

Kolbe demonstrates a commitment to providing and sharing accurate, energy data by having products independently simulated, tested, inspected and listed in the NFRC certification program. In addition to the data available on the NFRC Certified Products Database, Kolbe also provides detailed, product performance information at www.kolbe-kolbe.com's "Energy Product Database Search."

New TerraSpan Revit 3d Model

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 09:09:16 GMT

Kolbe Shares New Revit Model for 6-Panel Stacking Door

Wausau, Wis. (March 2011) – Kolbe has added a new Revit® 3-D model of its six-panel Ultra Series TerraSpan® Lift and Slide door to its growing collection of 1,000+ two- and three-dimensional window and door models. These new Revit models can link with external data sources to instantly compile quantity takeoffs for residential and commercial building projects.

Kolbe's easy-to-use models allow users to customize the width, height, panel width, wall offset and other features of Ultra TerraSpan doors' expansive entryways. These doors can incorporate up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height with a choice of screens, hardware and other accessories. The doors' design options present more than 900 potential, operational configurations and provide universal access that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Balancing ease-of-use, daylighting and energy efficiency, the doors are available in climate-appropriate, high-performance glass options. A broad palette of environmentally-friendly finishes protect the exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably-harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

The new Revit models for Ultra TerraSpan doors are located in:

Kolbe's website <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/architectLibrary/index.cfm?pcID=7&pID=64>
RevitCity <http://www.revitcity.com/downloads.php?action=search&keywords=kolbe&user_name=&sort=score>
Autodesk Seek <http://seek.autodesk.com/product/latest/agg/kolbekolbemillworkcoinc/Kolbe-Kolbe-Millwork-Co-Inc/KolbeUltraTerraspan>

To request personalized assistance with Kolbe's BIM tools and 3-D models, please e-mail Laura Smith, Kolbe's architectural CAD coordinator at architects@kolbe-kolbe.com. Learn more about Kolbe's door and window products and models at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Universal Design Products Encourage Ease-of-Use for All

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 08:33:31 GMT

Kolbe Products for Accessible Design

Wausau, Wis. (March 2011) – Kolbe offers a variety of universal design window and door products, as well as specialized locks, handles, cranks and sills. Its Ultra Series casement windows with push-button operation, double hung windows with crank handle and Garden-Aire sliding patio doors with sill ramp were highlighted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) 50+ Housing Council as part of the International Builders' Show's 50+ Lifestyle Central showcase and "Universal Design Power Day."

During the Universal Design Power Day, Kolbe's product and market analyst, Lance Premeau, LEED® Green Associate, guided visitors through a tour of these products' features and benefits. He explains, "Sill ramps improve entrances for people with mobility aids. Lever handles on doors are easier to grasp. Crank handle hardware extensions for double hung windows enable people with limited strength to easily reach and operate the bottom sash with minimal effort. Motorized operators open windows at the touch of a button, which are an especially helpful solution for set-back bow or bay windows."

Kolbe's Ultra and Heritage Series wood windows and doors are available with these and other universal design options. Many of these options meet the Americans with Disabilities Act's standards. Premeau adds, "Universal design is the concept of making products and spaces accessible for people with various physical ability levels. It promotes freedom for the disabled. It allows the elderly to live independently longer."

"The housing landscape has been altered in recent years by a challenging economy, and the 50+ segment is no exception. For years, the 77 million Baby Boomers were the talk of the industry, with plenty of personal wealth, home equity and big plans for retirement," stated Mike McGowan, chairman of the NAHB 50+ Housing Council. "Suddenly, the rules have changed, and builders, developers and other 50+ housing professionals have been forced to evolve to stay competitive."

For more information on NAHB's 50+ Lifestyle Central and all 50+ Housing Council activities at the 2011 International Builders' Show, please visit www.BuildersShow.com/50plus. More than 47,000 builders, remodelers, product manufacturers and other home building industry professionals attended the 2011 show. The NAHB is the largest building association in the United States, serving more than 175,000 members in 800 state and local home builders associations.

Learn more about Kolbe's universal design products and projects at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Doors Lift, Slide, Fold and Operate at the Push of a Button

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:51:59 GMT

Kolbe Displays Elegant, Functional Doors at IBS 2011

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2011) – During the 2011 International Builders' Show (IBS), Kolbe will showcase the flexibility and functionality of its Ultra TerraSpan® Lift and Slide doors, new Folding doors, and Point Five's electronically-operating sliding doors.

Kolbe's sliding and folding doors are offered in numerous panel configurations, a broad palette of finishes and interior wood species, and other accessories to coordinate with nearly any décor. Promoting a visual and physical connection with the surrounding environment, these door products are ideally suited to capture the views, natural light, fresh air and outdoor experience for hotel guests, restaurant patrons, storefront shoppers and homeowners.

Kolbe's Folding Door Systems' panels fold back against each other to create an expansive opening. The new model on display at IBS positions sliding panels on right side and a matching access door on the left. Both the access and folding door panels showcase a uniform, optional 4-5/8-inch bottom rail to maximize the views even when the doors are closed, and to accommodate a larger size of high performance LoE²-270 glass. A specially-designed, thermal weep sill enhances the door's energy-efficiency, while optional, concealed hardware, architecturally-correct mortised hinges and other design details accentuate its traditional aesthetic.

For dramatically large openings, Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors can incorporate up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height. Matching the Folding Door Systems' sightlines, TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors maximize the viewing area with 4-5/8-inch-wide stiles and rails. TerraSpan units feature architecturally-correct coped corners where stiles meet rails, ADA-compliant bottom panel rails, energy efficient glass and sill options, and a choice of screens, hardware, finishes, exterior colors and interior wood species. The door's panels can pocket into a wall or stack together, and can be arranged in more than 900 operational configurations.

Specialty, sliding doors with electronic operations also are available through Kolbe's subsidiary, Point Five® Windows. Point Five custom designs and fabricates products for ultra-luxury homes and commercial projects. At IBS, Point Five presents a motorized, sliding Mahogany door unit with a stainless steel draining sill and a matching, motorized hopper windows.

Balancing daylighting and energy efficiency, these doors are available in climate-appropriate, high performance glass options. Kolbe's broad palette of environmentally-friendly finishes protect the exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably-harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Kolbe's doors' environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™.

Learn more about Kolbe's door products at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Triple Pane Glass for Improved Energy Performance

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:25:25 GMT

Kolbe Unveils Products with Increased Energy Efficiency

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2011) – Demonstrating its continued commitment to energy efficiency, Kolbe unveils window products featuring triple pane glass to meet the new ENERGY STAR® criteria for U.S. and Canadian climate zones: Majesta® Double Hungs, Ultra EP casements and awnings, Windquest® EP casements and awnings. Other windows and sliding patio doors also may be specified from Kolbe with a triple pane glass option.

Helping homeowners lower their heating bills by effectively and efficiently keeping the warm air inside, Kolbe's triple pane glass windows come standard with insulating glass and LoE coatings designed to achieve low U-factors. Kolbe's Windquest EP vinyl windows and Ultra EP aluminum clad wood windows can achieve U-factors as low as 0.19 (approximately 1.00 in metric).

Window products can qualify for ENERGY STAR based on their U-factor. The new ENERGY STAR criteria for all Canadian climate zones went into effect Oct. 1, 2010. Internationally, ENERGY STAR-qualified windows are tested and certified by an independent, accredited agency. U-factors for the four Canadian climate zones range from 0.21 to 0.32, expressed in metric units as 1.20-1.80.

Offering additional performance and peace-of-mind to homeowners in coastal areas and regions with high winds, stainless steel hinges on the Ultra EP products contribute to attaining Design Pressure (DP) ratings as high as DP80 for casements and DP85 for awnings. A broad palette of environmentally-friendly finishes protect the windows' exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably-harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Available as either part of the Ultra Series aluminum clad wood product family or as part of the Heritage Series all-wood product line, Majesta Double Hung windows round out the collection of triple pane glass window choices. Kolbe's newest product offering, Majesta Double Hung windows are made-to-order in sizes as large as 6x12-feet. The large sizes and traditional design make the windows a fitting choice for hotels, historic properties, converted warehouses and other commercial and mixed-use spaces.

To learn more about Kolbe's triple pane glass windows and other ENERGY STAR-qualified products, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

K-Force Products for Impact Resistance

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 10:56:49 GMT

Kolbe Products Perform in Hurricane-Prone Areas

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2011) – Kolbe's K-Force® impact products deliver the strength and durability to withstand hurricane force winds and flying debris. Kolbe's K-Force offering is available in as Windquest® Series vinyl products, Heritage Series wood products and Ultra Series aluminum clad wood products. These window and door units are tested extensively to meet or exceed the strict building codes of the coastal region.

Designers, builders, owners and occupants do not need to compromise on appearance to achieve this level of protection and durability. Kolbe's K-Force impact products are constructed without unsightly brackets, visible rods or extra locks. The traditional styling, clean design and easy operation are accompanied by the highest performance against the elements.

"While many companies offer windows with impact-approved glass, Kolbe offers impact-approved products, such as casements, awnings, double hungs, Lift and Slide doors, outswing entrance doors, transoms, segment head and half-circle products," notes Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing. "Several of our products also meet the rigorous Florida Building Code and Texas Department of Insurance requirements."

Kolbe's Windquest products are approved for use in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone and received notice of acceptance in compliance with Miami-Dade County codes, some of the most stringent requirements by any jurisdiction. In addition to Kolbe's Windquest products, its Ultra Series Majesta® Double Hung windows and TerraSpan® Lift and Slide doors have been certified to meet large missile impact Level D, and Wind Zone 4 testing standards (IPD4). This IPD4 rating indicates these products are an excellent choice for hurricane areas, as well for any region of the country that is subject to severe storms, tornadoes or gale-force winds.

As part of the K-Force line, Windquest products use double pane impact laminated, insulating glass as standard. The glass is designed to stay intact if it is broken. Each K-Force product uses glass with interlayer levels that are specific to the performance of each unit. That means that each window and door will perform at the highest level possible. Not only does K-Force impact glass provide safety and security from flying debris or intruders, it also provides higher sound transmittance levels.

Kolbe's Heritage Series and Ultra Series products with K-Force impact performance modifications are available as double pane units with LoE coating to help reduce solar heat gain and improve energy efficiency. Assisting with other environmental goals, Kolbe presents a range of sustainably-harvested wood species for the interior trim, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

To learn more about Kolbe's K-Force impact-approved products, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Celebrates Major Milestones

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 13:49:00 GMT

Anniversaries: 65th for Kolbe & Kolbe, 30th for Point Five

Wausau, Wis. (Jan. 2011) – What began in 1946 as a two-brother team has grown into an internationally-respected company and one of the largest manufacturing employers in North Central Wisconsin – Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Company, Inc. Through its history, the company and its employees have shared their talents and expertise making millions of products for prominent homes and buildings.

In 2008, Point Five® Windows and Doors intertwined its own legacy with Kolbe's. Founded 30 years ago in Fort Collins, Colorado, Point Five now custom designs and fabricates products for ultra-luxury homes and commercial projects.

"Whether in Colorado or Wisconsin, our employees share a commitment to always using the best materials and superior craftsmanship to produce the finest windows and doors available," says Mike Salsieder, president of Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co.

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co.'s 65-year success story starts with the tale of brothers Herb and Ervin. Born just before the Great Depression, they were children during the stock market crash of 1929 and endured the hardships of the decade that followed. Still, they shared a rich and full childhood. Their work ethic was built during their days on the family dairy farm and guided them as they built the business. These humble beginnings, along with the Kolbe brothers' dedication to producing premium quality windows and doors, served as the foundation for what now is known as the Kolbe® windows and doors brand.

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co. remains a privately held, community-oriented business. The company invests in continuous improvement to maximize efficiencies and innovation to maximize opportunities. Covering nearly 1 million square feet, its state-of-the-art facilities feature high-tech machinery and a design center to present the creative possibilities offered by Kolbe windows and doors.

A timeline of significant events and a video from the company's 60th anniversary may be viewed on Kolbe's website at http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/ourCompany.

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kolbe, Point Five Windows and Doors "shares a dedication to our customers, our craftsmanship and our communities," says Jeffrey DeLonay, Point Five's president. "We continue the tradition of unparalleled quality, service and commitment that has brought the company ongoing success."

Since its founding, Point Five has focused on high-performance, historically-accurate and highly-customized window and door products. In 1991, Point Five became the first, and only company in the nation to offer custom copper-clad windows and doors as a standard. With this demand, Point Five expanded into the luxury estate market throughout the United States.

Today, Point Five primarily works with architects and builders of exceptional custom homes around the country, many of which are more than 25,000 square feet. These prestigious residences typically are located in resort and vacation destinations from Malibu to Aspen to Kiawah Island and the Bahamas. According to DeLonay, "We take pride in working with these elite customers to provide outstanding window and door solutions for their estates."

Learn more about Point Five Windows and Doors at http://www.pointfivewindows.com.

Kolbe Enters the New Year with a New Website

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 16:43:04 GMT

www.kolbe-kolbe.com has been remodeled and re-introduced for 2011

Wausau, Wis. (Dec. 2010) – While the address remains the same, www.kolbe-kolbe.com has been remodeled and re-introduced in time for the New Year and for the 2011 International Builders' Show (IBS). Kolbe's website features a fresh design with more project photos, an updated navigation system with more direct connections to the most-popular sections, and an expanded gallery and architect library for the latest resources.

"The site is more inviting, simple to use and easy to find the latest news, products, contacts and inspiration," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's vice president of marketing.

The new menu highlights links to information that appeals to all audiences including architects, builders and homeowners. For its debut, the website's Gallery includes an IBS Slideshow in addition to project photos, success stories and videos. The What's New section also highlights many of the products on display at IBS, such as triple pane glass options, the Ultra TerraSpan® Lift and Slide door, and Folding doors.

For deeper information, visitors can explore kolbe-kolbe.com's Capabilities page. This section presents in-depth content addressing residential and non-residential projects' universal design, historic, renovation, impact resistant, energy-efficient and sustainable design goals. Each topic offers more connections to tips, tools, online resources, project profiles and Kolbe products.

The Product Info page shares a wealth of material on Ultra Series aluminum-clad wood products; Heritage Series all-wood products, Classic Series roll-formed aluminum-clad wood products; and vinyl products from the Latitude® Series and Windquest® Series. Visitors can select either a product line or by the product type, and learn more about products' options, warranties, installation and maintenance instructions.

The Architect Library contains Kolbe's database of products' sizes, 2-D and 3-D drawings and specifications; energy and performance data and interactive tools; green and sustainability attributes; online calculation tools and other project support services. Visitors also can sign-up to access tutorials, webinars, e-newsletters and continuing education courses approved by the American Institute of Architects (AIA/CES).

At the top of every page and in the Contact Us section, visitors can enter their ZIP code and search where to buy Kolbe's products. Other Kolbe dealers, regional managers and offices also are noted.

At the bottom of each page, Kolbe's site encourages social media users to click-through to its Facebook Fan Page to "like," "favorite," share, comment and contribute their own stories and experiences with Kolbe's products. To learn more about Kolbe's physical locations, history as a family business, upcoming trade shows and industry affiliations, visit the Our Company section.

Kolbe adds Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide Doors’ Revit models

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:39:51 GMT

A Growing Library of 1,000+ Two- and Three-Dimensional Window and Door models

Wausau, Wis. (Nov. 2010) – Kolbe has added its Ultra TerraSpan® Lift and Slide doors’ Revit® models to its collection of 1,000+ two- and three-dimensional window and door models.

The new 3-D model illustrates a four-panel stacking door with flush-mount sill, one of Kolbe’s most popular TerraSpan product choices. Promoting a visual and physical connection with the surrounding environment, Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors are ideally suited to capture the views, natural light, fresh air and outdoor experience for hotel guests, restaurant patrons, storefront shoppers and homeowners. The doors’ digital models and environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Rating System™.

Kolbe’s easy-to-use models can be managed and manipulated to link with external data sources allowing users to instantly compile quantity takeoffs. Users customize the width, height, panel width, wall offset and other features of these Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide door Revit models. Along with these models and its Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, Kolbe provides design professionals with free webinars on effectively using its Revit® and Google™ SketchUp models to expedite architectural project details.

The new Revit models for Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors are located in:

Kolbe’s website <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/>
Google™ 3D Warehouse <http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=kolbe&styp=m&btnG=Search>
RevitCity <http://www.revitcity.com/downloads.php?action=search&keywords=kolbe&user_name=&sort=score>

Ultra TerraSpan doors’ expansive entryways can incorporate up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height with a choice of screens, hardware and other accessories. Balancing daylighting and energy efficiency, the doors are available in climate-appropriate, high-performance glass options. A broad palette of environmentally-friendly finishes protect the exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably-harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

To learn more about Kolbe’s Ultra TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors, upcoming webinars or to request personalized assistance with Kolbe’s BIM tools and 3-D models, please e-mail Laura Smith, Kolbe’s architectural CAD coordinator at architects@kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Offers Engineered Bamboo as a New, Interior Species Option

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:35:45 GMT

Bamboo is the Most Renewable Material of its Kind

Wausau, Wis. (Nov. 2010) – Kolbe expands its selection of interior wood species to include a new, special option – Lamboo®, an engineered, laminated veneer bamboo (LVB) product.

“Bamboo is the most renewable material of its kind currently available for the building products industry,” Kolbe’s product and market analyst, Lance Premeau, LEED® Green Associate. “Selected from more than 1600 species of bamboo, Lamboo LVB products are manufactured from four of the strongest, fast growing and sustainable species.”

He adds, “Similar in density to Hard Maple, Lamboo has no knots or voids and is pressed into two different grain types. The solid, uniform, engineered surface is easy to clean. This low maintenance and long lifecycle is enhanced by bamboo’s natural, antimicrobial properties that also help resist pests, molds and moisture.”

According to Kolbe’s supplier, Lamboo Inc. of Springfield, Ill., this LVB product is 20% more stable than wood in moisture and temperature changes, has 10 times the tensile strength of wood, uses 15% less embodied energy than wood, and sequesters 35% more carbon in the growing cycle than timber. As a rapidly renewable material, Lamboo allows a four- to six-year harvest cycle, about half of the harvest cycle allowable under the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Rating System.

In addition to LEED’s Materials and Resources credits, Lamboo’s use of ecologically responsible adhesives also may contribute to Indoor Environmental Quality credits for low-emitting materials within the composite wood and agrifiber products category. In addition to Kolbe’s materials sourcing, recycled content and manufacturing processes, its windows and doors support daylighting, outside views, energy efficiency and other attributes that are recognized by LEED.

Those who request Kolbe’s Lamboo for the interior face of their windows and doors also may select from a choice of stain colors and custom-matched finishes. Kolbe’s products are finished with sensitivity to environmental air quality and the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enhancing these long-lasting, low-maintenance window and doors.

To learn more about Kolbe’s selection of interior species, finishes and the company’s green initiatives, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Ocean House Resort Hotel Turns to Kolbe for Restoration, Protection

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 17:15:47 GMT

K-Force Windows Provide Just the Right Balance of Style & Function

Wausau, Wis. (Nov. 2010) -- For more than 135 years, The Ocean House resort hotel in Watch Hill, R.I., offered one of New England's most spectacular ocean views. Serious structural issues forced its closure in 2003, but in autumn 2007 the $140 million project broke ground on the original site as the centerpiece of a mixed-use development. The restoration was completed in the summer of 2010. In June, its warm, yellow façade re-opened to welcome hotel guests and residents to their 72 rooms, five restaurants, croquet court and oceanfront beaches.

Ocean House's developer, Bluff Avenue LLC, sought to the restore the romance and historic elegance of the grand Victorian hotel, which gained international attention as the site of John F. Kennedy's wedding to Jacqueline Bouvier. Renewing the love affair with this American icon that was constructed just after the Civil War, Ocean House needed significant updates to its gabled tower, mansard roof, sweeping porches and large windows. Two new wings also were added to take advantage of the sloping site to step down the hill toward the ocean.

Improvements to this coastal property included enhancing the structural integrity and hurricane-force protection. In early October, the property experienced one of its first heavy storms as the remnants of Tropical Storm Nicole tracked across New England. Those at Ocean House comfortably watched from their large windows and waited for the storm to pass.

"Ocean House's project team found the right balance of style and function with our K-Force® products," says Cindy Bremer, vice president of marketing with Kolbe. "The traditional design detailing and wood construction of these windows and doors match well with the New England aesthetic. Without modifying this appearance, all of our K-Force products are tested to withstand intense coastal conditions and impact code for the area."

"Kolbe was one of four different windows we tested. All four competitors were required to meet building codes, as well as rigorous standards for energy performance and hurricane force winds," recalls Associate and Project Manager Meg Lyons, AIA, with Connecticut-based Centerbrook Architects.

She notes, "We were pleased with [Kolbe's] muntin profile, which replicated the original very closely. What distinguished Kolbe's products was their speed of installation. Kolbe's window took about 20 minutes to install, whereas their competitor's took up to an hour. With more than 500 windows to install on Ocean House, this represented a huge cost savings."

H. Carr & Sons Construction of Rhode Island installed a total of 530 Kolbe K-Force windows and 123 doors on Ocean House. These include a combination of aluminum clad Ultra Series and all-wood Heritage Series products. In addition to their hurricane impact-resistance, all products come standard with energy efficient LoE² coating that reduces solar heat gain, helping control energy expenses.

The high performance energy and impact features are integral to Kolbe's K-Force window and door designs. This means structural reinforcements are invisible, allowing clear, safe, comfortable window views from 49 boutique hotel rooms and 23 year-round residential suites. Twelve of the suites are secluded oceanfront cottage residences with impeccable detailing. All suites offer year-round services found in the finest hotels such as an on-call butler, full-service restaurant and bar room service, spa facilities, an indoor pool, fitness facilities, and access to one of the finest beaches in New England.

Visitors and residents enjoy a luxurious seaside experience from The Ocean House. Preparing this destination for their arrival was the result of successfully overcoming many challenges. To accomplish this, Bluff Avenue, LLC assembled a team of nationally-recognized professionals, including Centerbrook Architects and H. Carr & Sons. The Peregrine Group, a Rhode Island-based real estate development and advisory firm, acted as development manager for the project since the purchase of the original Ocean House by Bluff Ave., LLC. Other key contributors were the Pinnacle Advisory Group, a Boston-based boutique hospitality consulting firm; and Dimeo Construction, a construction management and building company based in Providence, R.I.

Among the first identified challenges, despite the hope that the core of the historic hotel could be rehabilitated, Centerbrook found overwhelming deficiencies that made this goal unrealistic. Instead, the decision was made to replicate the 1868 building using salvaged historic elements and to reconstruct capitals, balustrades, and other features and integrate them into the new building.

Centerbrook Architects took precise measurements and molds of all interior and exterior architectural elements to enable the most accurate reproduction of these details possible. In total, more than 5,000 artifacts were salvaged from the hotel. The original reception desk and the old stone fireplace were carefully removed and are being meticulously restored. All salvageable, architectural elements from the "Captain's Room" were dismantled and preserved for re-installation. The historic balcony and Palladian window were restored and installed into the building. And, each window was proportioned and positioned to correspond with its predecessor.

Carrying the intended, historic styling throughout Ocean House, Kolbe's window and doors feature 5/8-inch performance divided lite (PDL) bars to replicate the former muntin grids, while providing modern performance. "The simple, yet substantially proportioned trim around the windows…" and "the size, spacing, scale, and six-over-six pattern of the historic windows were all-important features of the historic appearance of the Ocean House, and they have been duplicated in this reconstruction," observed Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission.

In addition, Kolbe manufactured custom, curved glass units and unique sill design options that address Universal Design criteria and meet ADA requirements. "We're proud our products can serve Ocean House's many requirements," says Bremer. Through Kolbe's windows, many guest rooms feature breathtaking water views, working fireplaces and private terraces. Each spacious room, ranging from 450-square-feet to the 3,000-square-foot deluxe suites, is appointed. Master craftsmanship is evident at every turn of the gracious interiors; from the impeccably detailed architectural elements to the imported hardwood floors, the decorative copper trim and the custom-designed furnishings.

The new 152,600-square-foot Ocean House provides significantly more space, yet is scaled better to fit with the neighborhood. The hotel's face to the community appears nearly 7,000 square feet smaller than the original. This less imposing scale was accomplished by reducing the amount of gross square feet measured at the lobby level and all of the floors above. Event spaces and amenity functions such as the pool now are below the lobby level and enclosed within the protective arms of the new hotel's two wings. This shields them from view, while remaining a welcoming destination.

"It is a new building that replicates the original and brings back the spirit of the old building," says Lyons. "The project has been tremendously successful."

Nicholas C. Moore, Bluff Avenue, LLC's president, adds, "There are few people today associated with the hotel who do not have or know a story to tell about the Ocean House and its beach. Preserving the fabled hotel and its grounds will keep the old memories alive and set a stage for new ones to come."

The Ocean House; One Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill, R.I.; www.oceanhouseri.com

Developer: Bluff Ave., LLC; Westerly, R.I.
Members of Preferred Boutique, by Preferred Hotel Group; http://www.preferredboutique.com
Real estate development and advisory firm: The Peregrine Group LLC; Rumford, R.I.; http://www.peregrinegrp.com/
Consulting firm: Pinnacle Advisory Group, Inc., Boston; http://www.pinnacle-advisory.com/
Architectural and planning firm: Centerbrook Architects and Planners; Centerbrook, Conn.; http://www.centerbrook.com/
Interior design firm: Niemitz Design Group; Boston
Construction management and building firm: Dimeo Construction Company; Providence, R.I.; http://www.dimeo.com/
Window and door distributor: Cleary Millwork Co.; Rocky Hill, R.I.
Window and door installing firm: H. Carr & Sons Construction; Providence, R.I.; http://www.hcarr.com
Window and door manufacturer: Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.; Wausau, Wis.; http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/

Kolbe Wins 2010 Green Product Award

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:56:22 GMT

Windquest Series Energy Performance Windows Highlighted by Door & Window Manufacturers Award

Wausau, Wis. (Oct. 2010) – Door & Window Manufacturer's 2010 Green Product Award panel of judges recognized Kolbe's Windquest® Series Energy Performance (EP) windows as the winning selection in the window manufacturer category. In addition to products' green features and attributes, judges evaluated the manufacturers' commitment to overall environmental sustainability, the accuracy of the companies' promotional materials, the use of third-party verifications and other factors.

Earning top honors, Kolbe's Windquest EP windows were highlighted for their triple glazing system that helps achieve insulating values nearly twice those currently required by ENERGY STAR® and exceeding 2010 ENERGY STAR criteria for all U.S. climate zones. These windows also qualify for the Department of Energy's Volume Purchase Program.

Available as casement, awning and studio windows, these low-maintenance, long-lasting products come standard with a special combination of high-performance LoE coatings on the glass to optimize U-value, visible transmittance, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, and external appearance. Further demonstrating the product's exceptional performance, Kolbe's Windquest EP windows are certified to achieve an R-PG50 (residential performance grade) rating and structural DP50 rating.

"Kolbe has synergy between elements, finding a balance among them – new and replacement products, energy and impact performance, technical information and marketing," commented one of the judges.

Door & Window Manufacturer's Green Product Awards also noted Kolbe's dedication to environmental stewardship exemplified through its materials sourcing, recycled content, personnel and product certification, and manufacturing processes, including Forest Stewardship Council Chain-of-Custody. Kolbe's practices, people and products support green building guidelines, such as outlined by the American National Standards Institute, the Green Building Initiative™, the International Code Council, the National Association of Home Builders, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System.

To learn more about Kolbe's Windquest EP Series and the company's green initiatives, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Introducing Ultra EP Casement Windows with Improved Energy Performance

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:38:25 GMT

Triple Pane Glass Helps Achieve U-factors as Low as 0.19!

Wausau, Wis. (Oct. 2010) – Kolbe announces the addition of Ultra EP (Energy Performance) casement windows to its Ultra Series product family of energy-efficient, aluminum-clad wood windows. The new Ultra EP windows feature triple pane glass to meet the ENERGY STAR® criteria for all Canadian climate zones, which went into effect Oct. 1, 2010.

Internationally, ENERGY STAR-qualified windows are tested and certified by an independent, accredited agency. Window products can qualify for ENERGY STAR based on their U-factor. U-factors for the four Canadian climate zones range from 0.21 to 0.32, expressed in metric units as 1.20-1.80.

Kolbe's Ultra EP casement and awning windows come standard with 1-3/8-inch (2.54-cm) insulating glass and LoE coatings designed to achieve U-factors as low as 0.19 (approximately 1.00 in metric). Lower U-factor numbers indicate a slower transfer of heat from a warm area to a cold area. This is considered advantageous in colder climates where homeowners want to lower their heating bills by effectively and efficiently keeping the warm air inside.

Helping lower homeowners' maintenance costs, Ultra EP wood windows' exteriors are clad in durable aluminum. The aluminum is finished with a protective, fluoropolymer coating that carries up to a 30-year warranty, or with an optional, anodize that enhances the metallic appearance. On the interior, pine is the standard, but many wood species are available including those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. A broad palette of paints or water-based stains can be specified, along with hardware and accessory choices, to match nearly any décor.

Contributing to smooth installation, Kolbe's Ultra EP windows' 3.25-inch (8.255-cm) jamb depth fits most standard applications. Kolbe's craftsmanship is demonstrated by such construction details as sloped sills to direct water away from the structure and carefully coped corners on the sash. On the Ultra EP window, a 2.25-inch (5.715-cm) thick sash, multi-point keeper and engineered hinges accommodate the thicker, heavier triple pane glass, while ensuring nearly effortless operation for the homeowner.

To learn more about Kolbe's Ultra EP Series windows and other ENERGY STAR-qualified products, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Historic, Hurricane-Resistant, Green Library Relies on Ultra Series Windows

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:02:47 GMT

Kolbe® Windows Meet Many Needs

Wausau, Wis. (Sept. 7, 2010) – New York's Westhampton Free Library combines historic aesthetics and hurricane performance, while seeking Gold-level certification under the LEED® Green Building Rating System. Kolbe's high performance windows and a collaborative building team helped achieve the project's multiple objectives.

Located within a mile of the Atlantic Ocean, this community landmark has resided on Library Avenue for more than 100 years. Opened in June 2010, the new library sits on the site of two previous buildings that were demolished in September 2008. One of the buildings had been an abandoned hardware store, reconfigured for library activities. The other had been expanded five times throughout its existence. These disconnected, aging structures could no longer support the requirements of a modern library.

Public meetings were held to ensure that the new facility met the community's needs now and in the future. Sandpebble Builders Inc.'s Dan Kowalski, LEED-AP, explains, "Known as ‘dynamic design charrettes,' these meetings included library board members, users and staff, plus politicians, community leaders and other stakeholders. They were asked what they liked about the old building, and what they wanted to see in a new building."

Kowalski recalls that charrette participants clearly "said that they wanted to stay on Library Avenue, which is a very small parcel of land; that they liked the look of the old building; and that reading spaces with natural light and fresh air were important to them."

Armed with this and other feedback, the Project Architect, Ward Associates, P.C., designed a classic Colonial Revival building with innovative functionality and modern performance. The new 14,250-square-foot structure replicates the original, one-story, wood-framed library, while providing twice the square footage, adding an outdoor reading garden and accommodating future expansion.

Ward's associate, Pansy Cheng, RA, LEED-AP, elaborates, "To create a new library building that accurately represents the original library and blends in within its neighbors, we incorporated the period architectural elements such as a U-shaped floor plan, symmetrical façades, multi-pane windows with shutters and fiber-cement shingle siding."

She continues, "The windows on Westhampton Free Library must protect the building from hurricanes, resist salt spray and corrosion, provide high insulation value, and provide occupants with exterior views and daylighting, all while doing so attractively and true to the historical, colonial character of the original library building built in 1906."

To meet this tall order, Ward Associates, P.C., selected Kolbe's Ultra Series extruded aluminum clad windows with K-Force® impact performance, for their strength, durability and custom capabilities. The extruded aluminum billet of the windows' exteriors consists of 50-75% recycled content, which helps the building qualify for LEED Gold certification. Extending the products' longevity and ease-of-maintenance, the aluminum is finished in a fluoropolymer paint that carries a warranty, which includes salt spray and other environmental conditions.

On the library's interior, ensuring the windows maximized daylighting was of high importance. The architect chose 8-foot-high, oversized windows mimicking traditional, cottage-style, double hung windows to overlook the 1,800-square-foot reading garden on the south side of the library. According to Cheng, "The high visual transmittance value of the windows provides 73% of all regularly occupied spaces with daylighting. More than 90% of occupants have direct views of the outdoors."

The garden area's south-facing windows were crafted by factory-mulling together a 72-inch fixed casement with a 24-inch operable awning transom with steel reinforcements. A number of 8x8-foot openings on the front of the building required the windows to be mulled on site. "It was a team effort to find the proper combination of products to match the project's needs," says Geoff Penny of Marjam Supply Company, the local Kolbe dealer.

"Kolbe's windows are similar in style to the windows at our previous location, but of course, have so much more going for them in performance," adds Matthew Bollerman, director of the Westhampton Free Library.

Kolbe's windows were crafted in rectangular and half-circle casements, awnings and elliptical radius window units. Performance Divided Lites (PDLs) with 7/8-inch ovolo muntin bars were specified to simulate the historic style of true divided lites. Special muntin bar patterns also were created for the radius, "eyebrow" windows. Cheng says some of these eyebrow windows are up to 10-feet-wide and "provide traditional detail to the building façade."

Other architectural details include the built-in window seats incorporated into the highly-insulated, 16-inch-thick walls and the three "roof monitors" composed using Kolbe's Ultra Series fixed casements to transmit natural daylight. "In lieu of skylights, we used traditional windows perched at the roofline to create light shafts in the children's reading area on the second floor," says Kowalski. "To help manage the thermal heat gain, we used smaller windows on the South side and larger windows on the North."

Cheng agrees, saying it creates "a bright and cheerful learning environment, while reducing energy consumption." In addition, she says, "The high energy performance of the windows helps the new library to reduce energy costs by 35% below the ASHRAE 90.1 baseline building model."

Ten percent of the building's electrical power comes from renewable energy and energy is used efficiently throughout the building. Specially formulated to block 83% of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays and 96% of the sun's infrared heat, Kolbe's Ultra Series K-Force impact products feature laminated insulated units with LoE²-270 glass.

"The highly efficient windows provide good light transmission, thermal and moisture control and are operable for natural ventilation," Kowalski emphasizes. "These large windows are hurricane-rated due to the library's proximity to the coast."

Cheng describes the hurricane impact resistant qualities: "These three-pane windows – insulated glass on the outside, backed with a shatter-resistant polymer core – withstand repeated blows from an 8-foot-long, 2x4 stud shot from a cannon at 50 feet per second to simulate flying debris. Concealed stainless steel hinges and brackets provide hurricane resistance without sacrificing the historical aesthetics of the windows."

The library's design and building team also were pleased that Kolbe windows' laminated lites not only help to withstand high winds and flying debris, and to optimize energy efficiency, but also help to block street noise from the library interior. Many of the library's high performance, resource-conserving features are quietly invisible to visitors. As examples, the displacement ventilation system is hidden within a raised floor system; the geothermal heat pumps are located out-of-sight, below ground; and the photovoltaic panels are veiled by the roofline.

The false mansard roof also hides the second floor from the street-view, "giving the illusion of an old, traditional one-story structure without appearing out of scale within its surroundings," says Cheng. "By combining classical proportion and scale with energy efficient systems and ecological construction, Kolbe & Kolbe is able to accurately replicate the past, while embracing the future for Westhampton Free Library."

"Everyone is very happy with the windows and the community is happy with the building," Kowalski concludes. "It is the most thermally-efficient, well-designed building with which I've been involved."

As the library's director, Bollerman offers additional praise: "Patrons have loved the new building since we opened. They are pleased with how bright and welcoming the spaces are."

Westhampton Free Library
7 Library Avenue, Westhampton Beach, N.Y.; http://westhamptonlibrary.net

Architect: Ward Associates, P.C.; Bohemia, N.Y.; www.wardpc.net
Construction manager: Sandpebble Builders, Inc.; Southampton, N.Y.; www.sandpebblebuilders.com
Window dealer: Marjam Supply Company; Mattituck, N.Y.; www.marjam.com
Window distributor: Garden State Millwork; Oakland, N.J.; www.gardenstatemillwork.com
Window manufacturer: Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.; Wausau, Wis.; www.kolbe-kolbe.com

Kolbe Introduces New Screens

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:00:28 GMT

Tighter Weave Increases Visibility and Insect Control

Wausau, Wis. (June 1, 2009) - Kolbe's wood window and door products now offer BetterVue® screen mesh as a standard feature, providing superior performance to standard screen products. BetterVue's charcoal-colored fiberglass mesh enhances the sense of openness, while increasing light transmission and insect protection. Rust- and corrosion-resistant, it is certified by GREENGUARD® for superior indoor air quality performance.

"The tighter weave of the mesh makes the screen seem invisible. They are so easy to see through, that homeowners barely realize the screens are there," says Lance Premeau, Kolbe's product manager.

When windows are closed and the screen is not in use, Kolbe's pull-down retractable screen products enable screens to virtually disappear. Retractable screens are an option on the Ultra and Heritage Series Sterling double hung windows, push-out casement and awning windows. BetterVue screen mesh also is standard on Ultra, Heritage and Classic Series window and door screens.

For heightened performance and clarity, UltraVue® fiberglass screen mesh may be selected as an option on Ultra, Heritage and Classic Series window products. UltraVue mesh is not recommended for door products and is not provided for Kolbe's retractable screen products.

BetterVue and UltraVue have a maximum screen width of 48-inches and frames may be color-coordinated to match with windows and doors' exterior finish colors. Interior wood-wrapped screen frames may be selected for rectangular wood casement and awning windows with roto-style, outswing operation. In addition to the new fiberglass screen mesh, Kolbe offers aluminum screen mesh in the colors of charcoal and bright aluminum. Brass mesh is available for screens with brass frames.

To learn more about screen mesh options for Kolbe windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe's Lance Premeau certified as LEED Green Associate

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:46:57 GMT

Certification used to support and educate customers

Wausau, Wis. (June 2010) – Lance Premeau, Kolbe's product and market analyst, successfully passed the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design® (LEED) Green Associate Certification. The achievement is part of the company’s ongoing initiative to support and educate customers’ green design and building projects.

Professional certification for LEED unites leaders from across the building industry who promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Introduced in 2009, the new LEED Green Associate credential demonstrates comprehensive, general knowledge in green building and LEED. It distinguishes individuals that support, but may not directly apply, green building in their regular professional work. This credential also is a prerequisite to pursue the next tier of accreditation, LEED Professional with Specialty.

Premeau adds his status as a LEED Green Associate to his 18 years of experience in contributing to commercial and residential applications. In his daily work, Premeau is involved with Kolbe’s green strategies through printed materials, online content, training seminars, market and industry research, as well as presentations.

As an example, Premeau helps architects gain sustainable design knowledge and learning units through American Institute of Architects’ continuing education seminars (AIA/CES). Kolbe most recently began offering “Sustainable and Energy Efficient Windows & Doors: Contribution to Green Buildings,” a one-hour, in-person AIA/CES course.

To learn more about Kolbe’s green initiatives, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com. For more information on the USGBC and LEED, please see www.usgbc.org.

Kolbe's ThermaPlus LoE Glass Expands Window Choices

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:54:14 GMT

To Meet Home Energy Federal Tax Credit Requirements

Wausau, Wis. (May 2010) – Kolbe introduces ThermaPlus™ LoE insulating glass to present homeowners with more choices in window products qualifying for the federal income tax credit for energy efficient home upgrades. The maximum credit has been raised to $1,500 for combined improvements to one, existing, primary residence during the years 2009-2010.

Homeowners are required to document that windows they have purchased meet a combined U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient rating of .30 or less. The U-factor is based on a window's resistance to heat flow and its insulating value; the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures the fraction of solar energy admitted, and indicates how well the product blocks heat caused by sunlight.

Necessary supporting records are purchase receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement listing the U-Value and SHGC rating. Kolbe provides its certification statement and thermal performance ratings at its Web site. It also offers an easy, online selection tool to review its numerous window products to meet these requirements. To use this tool, please visit Kolbe's Web site and click on "Tax Credits for Efficient Products," at http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/products/index.cfm?page=stimulus. Users can search and sort by product model, product name, product series, gas fill, or by glass coating such as "ThermaPlus 270."

"ThermaPlus LoE glass enhances the thermal performance of the glass, which meets the more stringent Stimulus energy performance requirements. This helps homeowners achieve long-term savings by reducing energy bills," notes Cindy Bremer, Kolbe’s vice president of marketing. She adds that this new glass option is "unique to Kolbe."

ThermaPlus LoE insulating glass is available in Kolbe's Ultra, Heritage, Classic and Latitude™ Series product lines, and in the company's impact and laminated glass products. Three energy-efficient insulation options are offered – LoE²-270, LoE³-366, or LoE³-366 (MA), which is designed for high altitude areas.

To learn more about glass options for Kolbe’s windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Announces Promotion of Business Leaders

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 11:57:56 GMT

New Leadership Roles

Wausau, Wis. (May 25, 2010) – Mike Salsieder, President of Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork, recently announced the promotion of four individuals to new leadership roles. These individuals will be responsible for their respective areas within Kolbe, including the Manawa operation and Point Five Windows and Doors.

Jeff De Lonay has been promoted to Executive Vice President. He recently held the position of Vice President of Operations and has over 25 years experience with the company. He has worked in and managed numerous departments within Kolbe including: manufacturing, customer service, estimating, training, field service, engineering, research & development, production processing and purchasing. In Jeff's new role he will oversee the operations of all facilities and business disciplines along with responsibility as President of Point Five Windows and Doors.

Cindy Bremer has been promoted to Vice President of Marketing. She has over 23 years marketing and sales experience in the window and door industry in both residential and commercial construction. Her vast knowledge of the architectural market, creative development of architectural tools, customer relationships and business savvy set her apart. Cindy has held the position of Director of Marketing at Kolbe for five years and prior to that worked for other manufactures of windows and doors in Central Wisconsin.

Ann Micholic has been promoted to Vice President of Human Resources. Ann's 13 years in human resources and training along with her strong leadership skills and business knowledge lend itself to this key position within the executive team. During Ann's tenure, she has worked as Human Resources Generalist, Training Manager, and Director of Human Resources.

Hank Hosler has been promoted to Vice President of Information Technology. In his 15 years as an IT professional, Hank has been a part of the leadership of several make-to-order manufacturers that have worked to continuously improve their operations. He joined Kolbe in late 2004 as Director of Information Technology. Hank's business acumen has helped set the direction for implementing a state of the art quoting system which reinforces Kolbe's Easy to do Business With initiative. Hank will continue to lead Kolbe's IT strategy across all business units.

Sustainable & Energy Efficient: Contribution to Green Buildings

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 11:58:29 GMT

AIA/CES presented by Kolbe

Wausau, Wis. (April 2010) – Kolbe helps architects gain sustainable design knowledge and learning units (LUs) through American Institute of Architects' continuing education seminars (AIA/CES). Its new presentation, "Sustainable and Energy Efficient Windows & Doors: Contribution to Green Buildings," is a one-hour, in-person course.

"Sustainable and Energy Efficient Windows & Doors: Contribution to Green Buildings" explains:

How quality windows and doors can contribute to sustainable green design due to their durability and energy-efficient technology.
What the different "Green Building" voluntary ratings systems are and how they affect the selection of windows and doors.
How selecting the right windows and doors contributes to environmental stewardship.
What the advantages and benefits of "Green Building" are to the environment, economy, health, and community.

Architects who successfully complete this course receive one AIA/CES Learning Unit (1.0 LU). In addition, this course qualifies for one health, safety and welfare (1 HSW) credit and one sustainable design (1 SD) credit, which will be recorded with the AIA. To request a presentation, please contact Kolbe at 800-955-8177 or kolbe@kolbe-kolbe.com, or visit Kolbe’s Web site, http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe also offers many other, face-to-face AIA/CES programs and tours, such as:

Advances in Glass without Tour (1.0 LU, 1 HSW)
Energy Efficiency in Windows (1.0 LU, 1 HSW)
Determining Design Pressures (1.5 LUs, 1 HSW)
Finishing Touches – Enhancements, Options & Trend for Windows and Doors (1.0 LU, 1 HSW)
Historical Applications (1.0 LU, 1 HSW)
"Architectural Influences: Exploring Elements of Sustainable Design" (8.5 LUs, 2 HSW credits, and 1 SD). Tours in this 1.5-day event are limited to groups of 10 or less, by appointment.

Kolbe's "Architectural Influences: Exploring Elements of Sustainable Design" in Wisconsin includes:

Tour of Taliesin® in Spring Green, Wis. - visit the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright's home, private studio, and the campus of The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture
Tour of Aldo Leopold Legacy Center in Baraboo, Wis. – explore one of the two, highest-ranking LEED® buildings in North America
Tour of Cardinal Float Glass Plant in Portage, Wis. – watch the process of sand, limestone and other materials as they become glass for windows and doors
Tour of Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork in Wausau, Wis. – follow the process of custom window and door manufacturing
Presentation of "Finishing Touches: Enhancements, Options & Trends for Windows and Doors"
Review of Kolbe's product series and how they can meet the needs of nearly any project

Kolbe adds Majesta windows to BIM libraries

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:15:44 GMT

A collection of 1,000+ 3-D models and free webinars

Wausau, Wis. (April 2010) – As one of the highest-rated providers of 3-D window models, Kolbe added its new Majesta oversized, double hung, wood windows to its growing collection of more than 1,000 two- and three-dimensional window and door models. Along with these models and its Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, Kolbe provides design professionals with free webinars on effectively using its Revit® and Google™ SketchUp models to expedite architectural project details.

Kolbe's easy-to-use models can be managed and manipulated to link with external data sources allowing users to instantly compile quantity takeoffs. The company continues to earn positive responses for helping address BIM needs.

"I use Kolbe’s models as an office standard, anywhere it’s applicable," says E. Jedd Crowder, project manager and Revit specialist at River Street Architecture in Chattanooga, Tenn. "I've fought with trying to create custom window and door models, so I appreciate the things that no one sees. I like how Kolbe approached its family creation from the BIM perspective, how it uses parameter tabling, and the way it covers exterior trim and other options with minor modifications."

The new models for Majesta double hung, wood windows are located in:
Kolbe’s Web site <http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/>
Google™ 3D Warehouse <http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=kolbe&styp=m&btnG=Search>
RevitCity <http://www.revitcity.com/downloads.php?action=search&keywords=kolbe&user_name=&sort=score>

Majesta's made-to-order units are available in sizes as large as 6x12-feet with high-performance glass, as well as a selection of hardware, colors and finishes. Whether used in new construction or renovation, Majesta windows suit hotels, historic properties, converted warehouses and other commercial and mixed-use spaces.

Kolbe's Majesta windows can be specified as all-wood or as low-maintenance aluminum-clad windows. Optional wood species include those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, which can be coupled with energy-efficient glass choices to support ENERGY STAR®, Green Globes™, and LEED® Rating System™.

"The performance, detail and options that Kolbe has to offer architects and their customers are best represented visually," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe’s director of marketing. "Our most recent webinar participants have shared this perspective and told us that BIM and 3-D models help them more easily communicate the features and benefits to both contractors and homeowners."

To learn about upcoming webinars or to request personalized assistance with Kolbe's BIM tools and 3-D models, please e-mail Laura Smith, Kolbe’s architectural CAD coordinator at architects@kolbe-kolbe.com.

Green Builder VISION House Aspen showcases Kolbe windows

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:14:53 GMT

Energy-efficient, environmentally friendly windows

Wausau, Wis. (April 2010) – The Green Builder® VISION House Aspen celebrated its grand opening with educational events and tours on March 25-26, 2010. Sited near Aspen, Colo., VISION House is the latest in a sequence of show-home projects that demonstrate resource efficiency, durability and cost effectiveness through environmentally responsible design and construction practices.

The home will be rated for four different guidelines: LEED® for Homes, Built Green Colorado, Aspen and Pitkin County's building departments’ Green Building Initiatives Program, and the National Association of Home Builders' (NAHB) Green Building Program. To meet these guidelines and accomplish its intended goals, VISION House Aspen employs a multitude of technologies, system and products including Kolbe's Ultra Series premium, aluminum-clad windows.

Kolbe's windows capitalize on both style and performance in highlighting the lot’s 360-degree panoramic views of Aspen Mountain, Snowmass Mountain, and the Upper Roaring Fork Valley. The area has a rich history steeped in mining and is now a leading international mountain resort that attracts a wide variety of visitors from around the globe.

"VISION House Aspen is an exercise in the possibilities," says Ron Jones, editorial director of Green Builder Magazine. Having researched the products featured in VISION House Aspen, he notes, "The combination of Kolbe's quality, features and options, made it a unanimous choice for the project’s decision makers."

"We looked at a lot of different window manufacturers. Our design team was determined to use the highest quality windows available to give the project a clean, 'Modern Mountain' look," says J. Stace McGee, partner with Environmental Dynamics, Inc. (EDI) of Albuquerque, N.M. "When we saw Kolbe's nice, square, clean aesthetics, we knew that was it. It not only gave us the look we wanted, it also met the budget needs and the ENERGY STAR standard.

McGee, together with his EDI colleague Kenny Myers, were the home's primary designers. McGee also is a LEED Accredited Professional (AP), LEED AP+Homes, and a Green Rater. He adds that Kolbe's windows "also contributed to our LEED for Homes score" on the 6,750-square-foot, two-level property. "To create a sustainable example in the luxury market is a difficult endeavor. VISION House is successful in showing it’s possible to achieve this."

"While many view large upscale homes as the antithesis of green or sustainable, I believe that regardless of whether a building or development is commercial, industrial or residential, high- or low-costing, everything we build today should be done with a sustainable approach," emphasizes VISION House builder, Gerry Hazelbaker of Paradigm Construction Corp. in Basalt, Colo.

Matching a full range of sizes and styles, Kolbe's Ultra Series offers options to address energy-efficient requirements, enabling the products to meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® guidelines. Helping lower energy consumption and costs, the windows reflect unwanted solar heat in the summer and retain desired heat during cooler months. Compared with traditional, residential construction, VISION House is estimated to reduce energy use by 50 percent.

In addition to glass options and energy performance, Kolbe's products are offered in a broad palette of finishes and interior wood species, and other accessories to coordinate with nearly any décor. For VISION House Aspen, Kolbe's Ultra Series windows are constructed of alder, which is widely recognized as a sustainable species. The windows' exterior cladding is composed of recycled aluminum and finished with a durable anodize, and accented with a custom, flat profile, Performance Divided Lites (PDLs).

Jones continues, "Kolbe’s windows are manufactured using … recycled materials. They're made with high-quality seals and hardware, which not only improve performance, but also are essential to meet client expectations in a home of this caliber."

"It's an honor to be involved with the VISION House program," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing. "We have a commitment to producing energy-efficient products using environmentally friendly processes and suppliers, so our participation in a project that promotes sustainability is a natural fit."

"Sustainability in window performance is an important design consideration. Kolbe's use of the highest quality, American-made materials contributes to these goals in many ways," says Royal Laybourn of Colorado's Roaring Fork Building Specialties. "In addition to higher performance levels, better materials also contribute to a longer service life and lower lifetime maintenance. Combine sustainability with high style and you have the complete package."

Jones agrees, "The careful articulation and execution of the intent of the project, when combined with the performance data we will mine from the operation of this exquisite residence, will provide invaluable insight into the challenges and potential solutions for the luxury resort market. It further demonstrates the simple truth that sustainability requires teamwork above all else."

McGee agrees, "This project has all the typical bells and whistles of a luxury home." He says VISION House Aspen features "glamorously green finishes throughout the house," while being "over 50 percent more efficient than the 2006 IECC [International Energy Conservation Code]."

The blower door test conducted in March showed 0.23 air changes per hour, which McGee reports "are the best results ever in the Roaring Fork Valley area." He adds, "I am very confident we’ll get a LEED-Gold rating."

Furthermore, McGee says, compared to the base case index, VISION House Aspen should achieve:

47 percent reduction in carbon dioxide, saving 43.8 tons per year
40 percent reduction in sulfur dioxide, saving 70.1 pounds per year
46 percent reduction in nitrogen oxides, saving 124.8 pounds per year
35 percent reduction in domestic water use

To learn more about Kolbe's green initiative and energy-efficient products, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors offers Phantom Screens

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:52:48 GMT

Motorized Executive retractable screens

Wausau, Wis. (April 2010) – Kolbe’s TerraSpan™ Lift and Slide doors are now available with Phantom Screens® Motorized Executive retractable screen. TerraSpan doors can incorporate up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height. One Executive screen product will cover a maximum opening of 25-feet wide by 16-feet high.

Without compromising the expansive views or easy transition between indoor and outdoor living, the retractable screen seamlessly integrates with the Kolbe TerraSpan Lift and Slide door to provide customers the benefits of convenience and luxury.

Installed by one of Phantom’s distributors, the screen options provide solar shading and insect protection when in use. This allows for large, uninterrupted views when Kolbe’s TerraSpan Lift and Slide are opened – either nesting behind one another, or recessing into a pocket opening to disappear completely from view. When the doors are closed and the screen is not in use, the Executive screen is stored conveniently out-of-sight until needed.

"During the new product development process of our TerraSpan unit we investigated a number of screen options for our customers. In looking at a vertical retractable option, we felt that the Executive model from Phantom had exactly what our customers would be looking for," said Jeff DeLonay, vice president of manufacturing at Kolbe. "It offers unique design integration and operation advantages that mirror the upscale TerraSpan product. Additionally, Phantom has the installation and support services to appropriately back their product."

Further enhancing the product experience, TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors are available in energy-efficient glass options. A broad palette of environmentally-friendly finishes protect the exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim.

The Executive can also help clients maximize energy savings, reducing the amount of air-conditioning needed to cool a building. The system may be programmed to descend and retract with sun and wind sensors. It also can connect to building automation systems to have the screens descend at a specific time of day when extra shade or insect protection is needed.

"Phantom Screens has always offered cutting-edge retractable screen solutions that meet the demands of the most sophisticated consumers," said Ron Somers, vice president of marketing at Phantom Screens. "The Motorized Executive screen is a natural fit with the new upscale TerraSpan Lift and Slide door."

Bob Kasten, vice president of sales and marketing at Kolbe said, "The ability to specify and order Kolbe’s TerraSpan Lift and Slide door and the Phantom Motorized Executive retractable screen together will speed up the process, because now the entire opening can be selected and specified at one time."

To learn more about Kolbe’s TerraSpan Lift and Slide doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Introducing Majesta Double Hungs

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:05:37 GMT

Custom, Oversized Double Hung has Balances to Accommodate Sash Size & Weight

Wausau, Wis. (February 1, 2010) – Kolbe presents its new, Majesta windows in response to customers' desires for very large, beautifully designed, double hung, wood windows. These made-to-order units will be available in sizes as large as 6x12-feet with high-performance glass, as well as a selection of hardware, colors and finishes.

"Whether used in new construction or remodel/replacement, the Majesta double hung is the perfect choice for hotels, historic properties, converted warehouses and other commercial and mixed-use spaces," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing.

All Majesta double hung units are custom-made and the balances are matched to the size and weight of the sash. Stile and rail dimensions are proportional in size. Enhancing the traditional look, several types of divided lites are available, as are matching single hungs, radius and cottage-style units.

A new, innovative lock complements Majesta's hardware choices in brass, rustic umber, and brushed nickel. The hardware, as standard, is installed at the center of the top rail of the top sash and center of the bottom rail on the bottom sash. This puts the bottom sash hardware within easy reach. The bottom sash features either a turn knob or a custodial lock.

Pine is the standard wood species. A wide range of optional wood species is available including those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. FSC-certified options can be coupled with energy-efficient glass choices, including triple glazed, to further support environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System™.

Contributing to energy-efficiency, the Majesta window offers a double row of heavy-duty weatherstripping around all sides of the sash, plus a triple-glazed glass option. The windows feature numerous other options with exterior brickmould, casings and sill nosing. Kolbe's Majesta double hung windows can be specified as all-wood with durable K-Kron II finish or as low-maintenance aluminum-clad windows. The extruded aluminum can be painted in a broad palette of colors, or finished in durable anodize with up to a 30-year warranty to meet AAMA 2605-05 specifications.

To learn more about Kolbe’s Majesta windows, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Orleans Hotel Expanding to Invest in Future

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:18:26 GMT

Recapturing the History of Old Sacramento

Wausau, Wis. (January 1, 2010) – The Orleans, once known as the Gold Rush-era hotel where California's early state politics took form, once again takes its place as an iconic building in Old Sacramento. monighandesign in Sacramento, Calif., fastidiously re-created the three-story street-front to match the 1865 original architectural proportions and details.

Contributing to this replica exterior, Kolbe provided the 10-foot-high, wood, double doors that open onto the boardwalk and large windows with performance divided lites. Kolbe's double hung and casement windows also were chosen for the two-story addition, which was designed using perspective analysis to carefully conceal the expansion from direct view and preserve the historic façade.

No longer a hotel, the building re-opened in late 2008 as a mixed-use space including 24 lofts with ground-floor retail and a high-end restaurant. Its neighboring buildings – the Union Hotel and the Adams Express – are more than 150-years-old and were essential in calculating the Orleans' restored scale and style.

"Usually, you'd have lots of historic photos and lithographs available for reference, but the only reliable print we had was a fairly small lithographic that showed the Orleans and the adjacent buildings," explains monighandesign's principal, Bruce Monighan, AIA.

He and his team digitally enhanced and enlarged the available image to capture the lithograph's depiction. "We did it old school and used rulers and calipers to measure the image's details and compared them to the existing structures. From this, we were able to determine the height of a balcony, the size of a window, the symmetry and proportion of the configurations, and even the thickness of the walls."

Monighan started his architectural career working on historic preservation projects in Old Sacramento. "I cut my teeth in this business directly across the street from the Orleans. From 1972-80, I contributed to many of the area's historic projects, which were funded by the federal historic preservation tax credits. When those went away in the late '70s, there were three lots left empty and the Orleans was one of them. When the project came up three years ago, I jumped at the chance to return to my roots, revisiting my own personal and professional history."

The developer, Harvego Enterprises, selected Monighan to conduct a feasibility study. Later, they hired the firm to recreate the historic building suitable to its origins, coupled with an appropriately designed, functional structure suitable to modern life.

According to Monighan's research and experience, "Old Sacramento was designated as the first historic district in the U.S., even ahead of Jamestown. Typically, a place is determined to be historic because of its look, its time, its material or the things that happened in that building. The Orleans was the centerpiece of California politics and where the decision was made to establish Sacramento as the state capitol."

With respect to the area's heritage, the architectural team managed the extensive approval process involving many local, state and federal agencies. "Frankly, the development team needed more square-footage to make this a leasable space," says Monighan. "But building up is not historically correct. Addressing this, we set the expansion back 20-feet from the street's main entrance. We provided perspective rendering to show that you can't see the two additional floors from this view. Most people have no idea how large of a building it really is."

Putting it bluntly, Monighan says, "The back is fake and the front is real, but we often get more compliments on the back because it features exposed brick. Today, we have a romantic attachment to brick and wood. During the 1850s, people didn't want to see natural wood or exposed brick. These were considered building materials that should be covered with decoration – painted and plastered."

Constructed of pine wood, Kolbe's custom windows and doors were shipped pre-painted with brickmould detached for field installation. The exteriors were finished with K-KRON II in a Truffle color. Burnett & Sons Millwork in Sacramento, Calif., served as the distributor connecting the design and building team with Kolbe.

"I assumed that we'd need all custom millwork to get the look we wanted," admits Monighan. "In the '70s, Burnett built most of the historic-looking windows and doors from scratch. When we started discussing the Orleans, they recommended Kolbe. At first, I was skeptical, but we got exactly what we wanted at a much better price point than building from scratch. I think Kolbe is one of the only manufacturers of this size that really understands historic work. They got it emotionally and were a real partner in trying to put this project together."

Dave Coffin of Burnett agrees, "Kolbe makes that history pop right out of the building. Everyone loves it," says Coffin. Proving this point, he proudly adds that due to Burnett's successful involvement with the Orleans, the company will be working on another Old Sacramento hotel featuring Kolbe's windows and doors.

"The Orleans has returned to be part of this historic fabric. People who don't know that it's a re-creation have no idea that it wasn't there for the past 150 years," says Monighan. "It's been very satisfying to fill the historic district in a way that hadn't been accomplished for 30 years."

The Orleans, 1024 Second Street, Old Sacramento, Calif.

Developer: Harvego Enterprises LLC
Architect: monighandesign in Sacramento, Calif.
General contractors: J.R. Roberts and SD Deacon Inc.
Window and door distributor: Burnett & Sons Millwork in Sacramento, Calif.
Window and door manufacturer: Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc. in Wausau, Wis.

Other key partners and contributors:

California State Office of Historic Preservation
Secretary of Interiors
City of Sacramento's Building Department and Economic Development Department
Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency
Sacramento Business Association
Old Sacramento's Historic District Foundation
Old Sacramento Design Review Group

To learn more about Kolbe's windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Launches Latitude Series

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:17:12 GMT

High Performance, High Style & Customization

Wausau, Wis. (January 1, 2010) -- Expanding and enhancing its window and door product offering, while simplifying the purchasing process, Kolbe has streamlined three of its product lines into one. What once was known as Inspiration® Series, Foundation® Series and Resolution® Series is now unified as Kolbe's new Latitude™ Series.

The Latitude Series provides a full line of premium quality, vinyl windows and patio doors for both new construction and renovation applications. These include casements, awnings, single hungs, double hungs, sliders, and geometric windows, as well as sliding and swinging patio doors.

"As its name suggests, 'Latitude' offers freedom from narrow restrictions. These products mirror the creative potential and exceptional performance, style and extensive options available in our wood products. This presents customers with a low-maintenance, alternative material of equivalent quality and dependable construction," says Mark Harger, general manager of Kolbe's facility operations in Manawa, Wis.

He emphasizes, "These are not cookie-cutter windows and doors, these are as customizable as any of Kolbe's products - from the high-performance glass and the UltraVue™ screens, to the historically-styled performance divided lites (PDLs). Exterior colors and trims extend the design flexibility needed to complement nearly any architecture or décor."

Specified with PDLs, Latitude windows mimic the look of true divided lites. Earning approval by the Department of Interiors for historic preservation projects, these windows combine traditional aesthetics with an ENERGY STAR® rating. Kolbe's Latitude Series products rely on high-performance LoE glass as standard to deliver energy-efficiency, helping homeowners save money on heating and cooling bills.

The standard, BetterVue® screens' charcoal-colored fiberglass mesh enhances the sense of openness, while increasing light transmission and insect protection. Rust- and corrosion-resistant, it is certified by GREENGUARD® for superior indoor air quality performance.

Kolbe's Latitude Series improves upon the previous three product lines with quieter, smoother-operating balance systems, and greater air and water resistance. These products may be further enhanced with UltraVue screens and ThermaPlus™ LoE insulating glass options. Installers also will note the choice of jamb sizes, brickmould and replacement options, easily accommodating both new construction and renovation projects.

To learn more about Kolbe’s Latitude series windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe's Imaginative Custom Window Designs

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:54:07 GMT

As Individual as the People Inside

Wausau, Wis. (January 1, 2010) -- During the International Builders Show (IBS), Kolbe showcases truly custom creations. Beyond unusual shapes and exaggerated sizes, customers can choose performance and aesthetic combinations including glass in elegant to whimsical patterns, exterior cladding in attention-getting metals, finishes in any color, and wood trim in any species.

"Whether choosing all-wood, aluminum-clad or vinyl units, Kolbe brings a breadth and depth of customization that no other manufacturer can offer," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing.

Spotlighting a few of the custom designs displayed in Kolbe's IBS booth, Bremer points to "a copper-clad inswing casement with oxidized silver patina exterior finish and Alder wood interior with Coffee Bean stain. The window's narrow performance divided lites are arranged in custom pattern and coupled with Verona style hardware in an oil-rubbed finish to convey classic elegance."

Continuing to highlight style, performance and functionality, Bremer demonstrates "a tilt-turn window with beautiful, vertical grain Douglas fir interior and durable, fluoropolymer-finished, aluminum-clad exterior. The solid construction and energy-efficient, triple-insulating glass helps this unit achieves the R-5 insulating value (0.19 U-Value/0.16 SHGC). This not only meets the requirements for home renovation projects' stimulus-funded tax incentives, it's worthy of an ENERGY STAR rating for almost any residential project."

Kolbe's windows' energy-efficient performance can be complemented with wood species certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders' Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

To learn more about Kolbe’s customized capabilities, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Windquest EP Windows Provide Top Tier Energy Performance

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:31:51 GMT

Insulating values nearly twice as good as current ENERGY STAR requirements

Wausau, Wis. (October 1, 2009) - Exceeding 2010 ENERGY STAR® criteria for all U.S. climate zones, Kolbe introduces its new, Windquest® Series Energy Performance (EP) windows. Available as casement, awning and studio windows, these low-maintenance, long-lasting products feature a 1.25-inch, triple glazing system.

"These windows achieve energy performance ratings that put them in the top tier in the industry with U-Values of 0.18/.19 and R-values of over 5, along with Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of .23. These insulating values are nearly twice as good as those currently required by ENERGY STAR," says Mark Harger, general manager of Kolbe's facility operations in Manawa, Wis.

He continues, "Furthermore, our units allow for a maximum air infiltration of only .01 cubic foot per minute, which is 30 times better than the industry standard." Verifying this exceptional performance, Kolbe's Windquest EP windows are certified to achieve an R-PG50 (residential performance grade) rating and structural DP50 rating.

Windquest EP windows come standard with a special combination of high-performance LoE coatings on the glass to optimize U-value, visible transmittance, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, and external appearance. Other triple-glazed LoE options are available to meet passive solar design requirements.

Beyond performance, Windquest EP windows present a full range of design options including divided lites as either grilles-in-the-airspace (GIAs) or performance divided lites (PDL) in numerous bar widths. Available in white or beige, the products also may be color-coated on the exterior with a polyurethane color finish.

To learn more about Kolbe's Windquest EP Series, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Green Initiatives Brochure Describes Products That Perform

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:27:39 GMT

Kolbe Products Meet ENERGY STAR guidelines, LEED requirements, and Other Rating Systems

Wausau, Wis. (October 1, 2009) - Kolbe's new "Green Initiatives" brochure shares how these window and door products can contribute to sustainable design projects and address environmental concerns with their energy-efficient performance, sustainable wood species, and durable finishes.

In addition, "Green Initiatives" describes how these products can help property owners and builders seeking to comply with green building programs including the ENERGY STAR® program, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) residential and commercial rating systems.

Demonstrating its commitment to these programs, to its customers' green goals, and to its company-wide initiatives, Kolbe has earned Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody Certification: No. SCS-COC 002040. FSC-certified wood is an option on many Kolbe window and door products. Wood species available include alder, cherry, fir, mahogany, maple, oak, pine, walnut and other wood species. This option currently is available on Ultra and Heritage Series products.

Along with sustainable wood choices, Kolbe uses recycled content in its products:

Ultra Series extruded aluminum billet consists of 50-75% recycled material.
Roll-formed cladding used in Kolbe's Classic Series products contains 65-70% recycled aluminum.
Standard glass used in Kolbe's products contains 25-30% recycled content.

Kolbe can provide ENERGY STAR-rated windows, with high-performance glass options that contribute to a home or building's overall performance. Many of Kolbe's wood windows are certified by National Fenestration Rating Council and carry an ENERGY STAR label. Kolbe's ThermaPlus™ LoE glass further enhances windows' thermal performance, saving homeowners' money in reduced energy costs. ThermaPlus glass helps meet more stringent energy performance criteria required for federal tax credits in 2009 or 2010.

Kolbe's Windquest® Series casements, awnings and studio units also are available as Energy Performance (EP) windows. A 1.25-inch triple glazing system option helps these products achieve top tier energy performance ratings, with insulating values nearly twice those currently required by ENERGY STAR, and are 30 times better than the industry standard in terms of air infiltration. Windquest Series EP units can achieve R-values of 5 with the standard glass offering. These units are also certified to an R-PG50 (residential performance grade) and structural DP50 rating.

Enhancing these long-lasting, durable, low-maintenance window and doors, Kolbe's products are finished with sensitivity to environmental air quality and the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by:

Using a fully encapsulated process in which the VOCs are destroyed when applying wood preservative and 70% PVDF fluoropolymer exterior finishes;
Providing interior prefinishing with water-based, low-VOC stains and paints, saving time and materials during field-application, clean-up and disposal;
Offering wood windows and doors with BetterVue® fiberglass screen mesh that has been certified by GREENGUARD®; and
Finishing its Ultra Series extruded aluminum-clad products a with a 70% fluoropolymer exterior coating that carries up to a 30-year warranty.

To request a copy of Kolbe's "Green Initiatives" brochure, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe's New, Square Profiles of Performance Divided Lites

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:53:04 GMT

Square profiles offer clean lines and flat contours to match specific architectural styles

Wausau, Wis. (September 1, 2009) - Kolbe introduces square profiles to help achieve the look found in authentic Craftsman-style bungalows or for projects seeking a modern twist on traditional wood windows. Available for both glazing beads and performance divided lite (PDL) bars, these square profiles offer the clean lines, flat contours and warmth of wood to attain the contemporary, yet rustic architectural styles desired in today's market.

Kolbe's new square profiles may be specified for awning, casement, hung, sliding, radius, geometric, bow and bay windows, as well as on doors in its Classic, Heritage, Ultra and Magnum Series. The PDL bars match existing product widths for a consistent appearance throughout a room or the entire house. Square profile true divided lites (TDLs) are available on a custom basis.

Further distinguishing these windows, Kolbe' interior wood profiles are offered in wood species certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders' Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

To learn more about interior profiles and other options for Kolbe's windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Updated Color Palette for Interior Finishes

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:36:11 GMT

Kolbe Colors Match Your Home

Wausau, Wis. (September 1, 2009) - From traditional, stained options to contemporary, painted colors, Kolbe presents a new color palette of interior finishes for its wood windows and doors. The company also announces a partnership with Sherwin-Williams' retail stores, where customers can purchase paint color-matched to their Kolbe products.

The choices for interior paint have expanded to seven colors with the addition of Bright White, Ultra Pure White, Abalone, Natural Cotton, Silk, and Ivory Tusk. Coffee Bean and Library Red have been added as two new stain colors. This updated selection was developed for Kolbe's wood windows and doors, in response to customer feedback and anticipation of market trends. Custom paints and stains also can be created for an even more personalized look.

Kolbe's water-based interior stains provide an environmentally-friendly finish that showcases the richness and depth of the wood, especially when choosing wood species certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders' Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

To learn more about interior finishes and other options for Kolbe's windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Offers Tilt-Turn Wood Windows

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:57:48 GMT

European Styling & American Practicality

Wausau, Wis. (July 1, 2009) -- Functional and elegant, Kolbe's Tilt-Turn wood window combines European styling and American practicality. Unique hardware allows the tilt-turn sash to both function like an inswing casement window, and tilt in from the top like a hopper window providing additional, natural ventilation.

Energy-efficient, LoE²-270 glass units are standard on the Tilt-Turn window. A variety of glass options are available to match performance and design preferences. Choices include tempered glass, laminated glass, impact glass, and decorative, patterned or obscure glass.

Resembling the look of historic wood windows, Kolbe offers divided lites in standard and custom design patterns, as well as a wide selection of exterior wood trims. All handles and coordinating hardware are available in brass, antique brass, white and bronze-colored finishes.

For a bold, personalized expression, the exterior of tilt-turn windows can be finished in a high-performance paint available in more than 30 colors, as well as custom colors. Interior stain choices range from light to dark to match with nearly any décor. The stains complement the wide variety of wood species, including those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders' Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

To learn more about Kolbe’s Tilt-Turn windows, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Specialty Shapes from Kolbe

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:59:24 GMT

Custom Exterior Looks and Interior Views

Wausau, Wis. (July 1, 2009) -- Unrestrained by rectangles, Kolbe's window shapes can be as unique as the individuals behind the glass. To pique the imagination, Kolbe offers a variety of shapes including oval, round, square, four-leaf clover, Gothic arch, trapezoid, pentagon, diamond and other custom shaped units, all in a variety of species and finishes.

"We can create premium-quality wood windows in almost any shape," boasts Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing. As examples she notes, "Oval and square windows are ideal for Victorian-styled projects. Other historic homes prefer the bold shape of a Gothic arch. Full circle and custom-shaped radius units accent almost any home's design."

Whether choosing all-wood, aluminum-clad or vinyl units, Kolbe's window geometries can be complemented with a wide selection of glass options including patterned (obscure) glass, which allows sunlight into a room while preserving privacy. Patterns range from elegant to whimsical in finely crafted glass designs. For additional interest, beveled glass, v-groove glass and colored glass options are available. Brass, lead or zinc caming can be incorporated to make any window shape stand out.

Further distinguishing these windows, Kolbe offers wood species certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing recognition by ENERGY STAR®, Green Building Initiative's Green Globes™, National Association of Home Builders' Model Green Home Building Guidelines, and the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Rating System for Homes™.

To learn more about custom shapes, species and other option for Kolbe's windows, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Entrance Doors Range from Green to Geometric

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:14:28 GMT

Make a Grand, Personalized Statement with Kolbe Entrance Doors

Wausau, Wis. (June 1, 2009) -- Kolbe encourages residential designers, builders and owners to make a grand statement with their entrances. Combining standard wood, aluminum-clad and fiberglass doors with options and accessories, homeowners can create a full range of expressions from the green to the geometric.

"Homeowners have begun to recognize that their front door communicates a lot about the value of their home, as well as the personality of those who live there," observes Lance Premeau, Kolbe's product manager. "The front door is a home's face to the world. Make it as special as you are by perfectly tailoring it for you and your home."

Customized features for Kolbe entrance doors include divided lite styles, exterior trim, and wood species like mahogany and Douglas fir. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified wood options also are available.

"Ensuring the selected wood comes from well-managed forests delivers an eco-friendly message and can contribute points toward certification for such green building programs," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing. "Combining FSC-certified options with energy-efficient glass choices further supports environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing ENERGY STAR, Green Globes, NAHB's Green Building Program, and LEED certification."

Beyond energy-efficient performance, Kolbe entrance doors may be specified to be hurricane impact-resistant. For an emphasis on the aesthetic, fine-crafted, metal-accented and stained glass looks present a one-of-a-kind design. Sills, hinges, handles and plates all can be ordered to suit. Blinds and clavos further enhance fiberglass doors. Select specialty colors and finishes, including a wire brush finish for a rugged texture, or request a custom color.

"When seeking the unique, remember that doors come in all shapes and sizes," adds Premeau. "The traditional rectangle can be elongated up to 10-feet-high, and appear even taller by stacking windows above the operable door. It can be widened with right- and left-swing double doors, and coupled with sidelites for a full, sunlit welcome. For an unforgettable impression, try softening the edges with curved eyebrows, ovals and arched tops, or go geometric with octagonal, triangular and diamond-shaped accent windows."

For a copy of Kolbe's "Entrance Door Systems," please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Expands Selection of Wood Interior Doors

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:01:29 GMT

From Formal Raised Panel Doors, to Elegant French Doors, to Casual Flat Panel Doors - Kolbe Has Your Door

Wausau, Wis. (June 1, 2009) - Whether the style is colonial, mission, modern or rustic, Kolbe's Advantage wood interior doors help achieve the desired look. From the formal statement of raised panel doors, to the elegance of French doors, to the casual class of flat panel doors, Kolbe Advantage doors' beauty is matched by durable, quality construction.

The three-dimensional detailing of Kolbe Advantage Select doors showcases the richness of furniture-grade hardwood veneers, an engineered core and hardwood inserts at all stress points. Among these precision-machined products, Kolbe offers raised and flat panel doors in a wide variety of styles. These styles are available in square, arch or eyebrow configurations, in nine wood species plus a paintable MDF surface.

Creating a dramatic passage between rooms, Kolbe Advantage Select French doors present standard heights up to eight-feet. They include a choice of 18 styles, nine wood species and a primed surface; and beveled, etched or flat glass. Numerous, decorative glass options also may be specified.

Rustic doors are ideal for a Santa Fe-style dwelling, log home or lodge. Seven designs can be paired with a range of wood species that include Knotty Pine and Radiata Pine. To further enhance their natural beauty, a clear-coat finish can be applied.

Combining classic appearance, reliability and affordability, Kolbe Advantage Basic raised panel doors feature real wood and true stile and rail construction in several styles and eight wood species.

When simplicity guides the design, Kolbe Advantage Flush doors are an attractive solution. Choose from hollow core doors, or for reduced sound transmission, solid core doors. Traditional oak or uniform light birch are the selected species.

Kolbe Advantage interior doors are offered as unfinished or prefinished in clear or stain tones, in a variety of standard sizes and in single- or double-wide profiles. Most products are available with optional matching bifolds.

For a copy of "Kolbe Advantage Doors" or to learn more about its interior doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Award-Winning Home Designed to Last for Generations

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:13:09 GMT

Old World Architectural Elegance Meets Modern American Living

Wausau, Wis. (April 1, 2009) -- The award-winning Belcaro Woods residence combines the architectural elegance of English Tudor manors with the comforts of modern American living. Weston Construction Corporation designed and built the home to last for generations, while incorporating the proportion, scale and detail of generations past. The National Association of Home Builders recognized this accomplishment with a 2009 Silver Medal, and the Denver Home Builders Association named the project its 2008 Custom Home of the Year.

Located at 3336 Belcaro Dr. in Denver, this three-story, eight-bedroom, eight-bathroom, single-family home spans more than 8,000-square-feet of livable, interior, above ground space plus another 3,000-square-feet below ground. Listed for $5.8 million, it sits on a half-acre of old-growth trees. The home's brick and stone exterior offers a stately welcome with a presence that conveys a sense that the structure has been there, and will be there, for a very long time.

"These homes are designed and built to last. They are large, but warm and friendly," says Weston's Michelle Miller. "They should continue to add to the architectural fabric of their neighborhoods. We want them to be as good or better, 100 years from now."

Miller's partner, Rick Crum, agrees and says, "We're evoking a classic architectural look, while still performing at a modern level." Working together, the husband and wife team draw heavily from centuries' old best practices to create signature, enduring homes. They currently own the Belcaro home, using it as a showplace, offices, and archival library, as well as a personal residence.

Working on only a few homes each year, Weston invests significant time and thought into each project. Influenced by past eras when a property's designer was also the master builder, they approach projects by researching the historic precedents, designing conceptual and detailed construction drawings, specifying the building materials, selecting colors and finishes, and overseeing the construction process.

Suppliers and specialty contractors on Weston's projects are chosen not just for their experience, craftsmanship, and creativity, but also for their knowledge and willingness to find new answers to old questions. Weston relied on Central Trim & Supply's Kevin Sausker as its partner to provide Belcaro's 151 windows and several exterior doors. These products were chosen from Kolbe's Ultra Series line of premium, aluminum-clad wood windows and doors.

"To some, a window's a window. It is, and it isn't. When you take a closer look, you start to see the proportion of the sashes and the grids within the window itself. It's the subtle scaling of these details that help make it beautiful. These are the details to which people unconsciously react," explains Crum.

"Kevin understood how important this was to us. We enjoyed working with him. He helped us determine an acceptable, and an affordable, product and still gave us a lot of flexibility in the design," says Crum. He adds, "We looked at a full range of window options before choosing Kolbe - from bronze-clad, completely custom windows, to semi-custom, to standard. Kolbe's push-out is a standard window with a good price, which meant we could afford to customize it."

"Kolbe's windows were a quarter of the cost of some we were considering. They're put together well and had the look we wanted," echoes Miller. "Great design is not necessarily the most expensive choice, but the most appropriate choice for the project at the best value. It takes research and a lot of thought."

As they conceived the design for Belcaro Woods, Weston studied small manor houses of southwest England from the 1500s to the 1800s. They visited several of these historic residences, and found their greatest inspiration at Sanford Orcas, built in 1550. They noted the locally quarried stone, the roof's slope, the rooms' dimensions, the stairways' rise, the grand functionality of a walk-through fireplace, the doorways' arched tops, the exact proportion of the windows' divided lites, and the interrelated scale of each architectural element on the whole.

Weston brings together all these elements in Belcaro Woods. The exterior is constructed of local, red, tumbled brick and hand-cut Colorado sandstone, curving over ground-floor entryways. The steep roof pitch is shingled in slate. A massive, wood stair railing and soaring, limestone fireplaces leave a lasting impression. Design motifs of griffins and Tudor roses, and the tactile qualities of wood, metal and stone carry through the interior.

The windows also balance between indoor and outdoor, old world and new world. Both Crum and Miller emphasized the importance of Kolbe's narrow sash and thin 5/8-inch PDLs (performance divided lites) to resemble historic, steel casements and the true divided lites. "Kolbe's push-out casements look more traditional and European, especially combined with the antique bronze lever hardware selection," says Crum.

"Most of the windows don't have screens like most windows in Europe," says Miller. "Denver has virtually no bugs, except for at night if there's a light." For these few areas, like the bedroom windows, Weston and Central Trim & Supply specified Kolbe's retractable screens. "When you don't need them, they disappear, which is fantastic."

All of the windows' profiles contour to seamlessly match the exterior, sandstone masonry surrounds are finished in a dark bronze anodize for low-maintenance durability. Crum reiterates, "Kolbe's windows offered the comfort, performance and durability we wanted."

One of the favorite rooms on the main-floor of Belcaro Woods is a mahogany-paneled library where Crum and Miller keep their antique collection of home plans, historic books, and archived reference materials. To protect this rare repository, one may expect the library to be a windowless interior room. In contrast to this notion, the library is a warm, welcoming space drenched in natural light through Kolbe's windows. Kolbe's Ultra Series products come standard with energy-efficient LoE2-270 double-pane insulating glass units with argon, achieving maximum visible light, while blocking 86% of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. This protects furniture, fabrics and other valuable interior items from fading.

The LoE2-270 glass enables Kolbe's windows to meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® guidelines in all climate zones. The home's 20-inch-thick walls also play a significant role. According to Miller, "The energy efficiency is astounding." Living and working from the property, she sees $200-250/month energy bills for a house in excess of 12,000-square-feet.

Highlighting the walls' 20-inch depth without interrupting the library's paneled interior, each window unit is trimmed in mahogany. Cherry trim was used for another breathtaking, but smaller room, featured in one of the home's showcase bathrooms. Situated in an alcove, the bath's tub is surrounded by windows. From the perspective of the person in the tub, the walls seem to disappear into blue sky, natural light and foliage.

"It's hard sometimes for people to visualize how a design might look or feel if they're just looking at paper. It's helpful for them to see, touch and experience these different rooms and materials to understand the variety of options available," observes Miller. "Many people tell us it's the most beautiful house they've ever seen."

Find Windows & Doors That Meet Tax Credit Requirements

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:54:45 GMT

Kolbe Offers Energy Efficient Windows & Doors that Meet .30/.30, and a Searchable Database to Identify Them

Wausau, Wis. (March 2, 2009) - The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 extends and modifies the energy-efficient home improvement tax credits for windows, doors, and skylights. Helping builders guide homeowners seeking to take advantage of this economic stimulus package, Kolbe offers numerous products to meet these requirements and an easy, online selection tool. To use this tool, please visit Kolbe's Web site and click on "2009 Stimulus Package & Energy Tax Credits," http://www.kolbe-kolbe.com/products/index.cfm?page=stimulus

To qualify for tax credit, windows and doors must have a U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of 0.30 or less. Kolbe provides many products that comply with these performance criteria, are built in the USA, and support the national economy. The online tool allows users to search and sort by glass coating, gas fill, product model, product name, and product series. Kolbe's vice president of sales and marketing, Bob Kasten, reminds users to "pay special attention to the sash and frame combinations along with the options that are shown."

Kasten adds that to benefit from these tax credits, homeowners must maintain their own records that windows meet the qualification requirements. These records are to include receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement. Kolbe's Manufacturer Certification Statement is the back of the blue Kolbe window label that shows the U-Value and SHGC.

The maximum credit has been raised from $500 to $1,500 for combined improvements to one, existing, primary residence during the years 2009-2010. The prior $200 cap on windows noted in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 has been removed. Additional information on federal tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements may be found at the ENERGY STAR® Web site, http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits.

To learn more about Kolbe's window and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Earns FSC Chain of Custody Certification

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:52:34 GMT

Kolbe Offers FSC Certified Wood for Green Projects

Wausau, Wis. (March 2, 2009) - Demonstrating Kolbe's continued commitment to the environment and to responsibly managed forests, the company has achieved Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain of Custody certification. One of the first of its kind in the window and door industry, this certification recognizes that Kolbe meets strict tracking requirements for ensuring the FSC-certified products it provides come from well-managed forests.

The majority of the lumber used in Kolbe's wood products is sourced from certified suppliers. Kolbe offers its customers with a full range of interior wood species including alder, cherry, fir, mahogany, maple, oak, pine, and walnut. The breadth of Kolbe's wood species are treated and stained with finishes low in volatile organic compounds. The natural beauty of each species can be further enhanced with a choice of water-based stains such as Golden Oak, Wheat, Light Oak 998, Red Wheat, Sunset Oak, Spiced Walnut, Chestnut, and Cherry. Custom colors also can be specified.

"We believe this achievement will further support architects, builders and homeowners engaged with environmentally sensitive projects such as those pursuing ENERGY STAR, Green Globes, NAHB's Green Building Program, and LEED certification," says Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing.

Selecting suppliers with FSC Chain of Custody may help projects seeking U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® Green Building Rating System™ earn Materials and Resources credits for certified wood. Kolbe's windows and doors also may contribute to LEED credits and other green design goals related to regional sourcing, recycled content, low maintenance, durability, daylighting, natural ventilation, and energy efficiency.

The FSC is an international organization that promotes environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world's forests. (www.fsc.org) Kolbe's FSC Chain of Custody certification has been granted through Scientific Certification Systems (SCS), an independent, accredited, third-party certifier of environmental, sustainability, food quality and food purity claims. SCS programs span a wide cross-section of the economy, recognizing accomplishments in the fields of green building, product manufacturing, forestry, retail, agricultural production, fisheries, energy, and food processing and handling. Kolbe's SCS Certification Registration Number is: SCS-COC-002040.

To learn more about Kolbe's green initiative and FSC-certified products, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Introducing Ultra Series TerraSpan Lift & Slide Doors

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:21:52 GMT

Panoramic Doors Bridge Outdoors to Indoors & Expand the Ultra Series Offering

Wausau, Wis. (March 2, 2009) -- Whether highlighting panoramic views or creating unique room divides, Kolbe's new TerraSpan™ lift and slide doors provide expansive, easy-to-operate doors that unobtrusively transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Part of Kolbe's Ultra Series, TerraSpan doors seamlessly match with the full line of premium, aluminum-clad wood windows and doors.

Expanding and embracing the essence of modern living, TerraSpan doors can incorporate up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height. As each panel is 2.25-inches thick, they require minimum space when open -- either nesting behind one another, or recessing into a pocket opening to disappear completely from view.

TerraSpan lift and slide doors can enhance a sustainably designed project by inviting large, outside views and amounts of natural light. When opened, the units also contribute to natural ventilation. The doors are available in energy-efficient glass options. A broad palette of environmentally friendly finishes protect the exterior cladding, which includes recycled aluminum. A range of sustainably harvested wood species can be chosen for the interior trim.

To coordinate with nearly any décor, Kolbe's TerraSpan doors are offered in more than 900 operational configurations. Contributing to these nearly limitless possibilities, flush and recessed sills can be weep or non-weep depending on the application. Three bottom rail choices also are available: The 4-5/8-inch, standard bottom rail height provides for the largest viewing area. The optional 8-11/16-inch bottom rail height perfectly blends with Kolbe's other Ultra Series products. The optional 12-inch bottom rail heights meet ADA compliance.

For strength and security, TerraSpan doors feature multi-point locking hardware and may be selected in such popular finishes as satin nickel and oil rubbed. Finger pulls and on-wall holding plates for removable handles can be specially requested. Pocket covers are supplied to conceal the wall opening and finished to match the interior trim.

On the exterior, the extruded aluminum can be finished with durable anodize or versatile paint in a broad palette of distinctive standard, specialty and custom colors. Divided lites, patterned or high-performance glass, and three screen options can be added to complete the look and functionality of TerraSpan doors.

To learn more about Kolbe's TerraSpan Lift & Slide Door Systems, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

An Exotic Sustainable Hardwood Option from Kolbe

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:05:10 GMT

Lyptus Provides Consistent Quality & Visual Appeal

Wausau, Wis. (March 2, 2009) -- Kolbe is pleased to announce that it offers Lyptus^® hardwood, an exotic species grown to sustainable forest certification standards, to its interior wood species' custom options. Offering all of the benefits of a tropical hardwood, Lyptus' consistent quality, visual appeal, dependable supply and affordability make it ideal for upscale window and door applications in commercial or residential projects.

A Weyerhauser product, Lyptus is harvested from non-tropical, certified eucalyptus plantations from trees that can be re-harvested within 14 -16 years of planting, making it an excellent sustainable choice for architects and builders. Its light color and grain consistency resembles mahogany. Kolbe's marketing director, Cindy Bremer, adds, "Lyptus is more consistent in color than African mahogany and looks wonderful when stained in a rich, dark color."

Kolbe's other popular interior wood species include alder, cherry, fir, mahogany, maple, oak, pine or walnut. The natural beauty of each species can be further enhanced with a choice of water-based stains such as Golden Oak, Wheat, Light Oak 998, Red Wheat, Sunset Oak, Spiced Walnut, Chestnut, and Cherry. Custom colors also can be specified.

To learn more about wood species and stains for Kolbe's windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Windquest Series Windows & Doors Offer Impact Resistance

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 11:16:24 GMT

Kolbe Vinyl Windows & Doors Have Received Notice of Acceptance in Miami-Dade County – Hurricane Alley

Wausau, Wis. (March 2, 2009) -- Designed, built and tested to today's strict building codes, Kolbe's Windquest® Series windows and sliding patio doors offer the high design pressure ratings that many commercial projects demand, while also meeting the impact rating criteria for coastal areas. The product line has received notice of acceptance in compliance with Miami-Dade County codes, some of the most stringent requirements by any jurisdiction.

The Windquest Series features impact-resistant, laminated glass with an interlayer that holds the glass in place in the event of breakage, thereby providing a greater level of safety and security from flying debris. Kolbe's Windquest Series has been certified to meet both large missile impact Level D and Wind Zone 4 testing standards, making it an excellent choice for hurricane areas, as well for any region of the country that is subject to severe storms, tornadoes or gale-force winds.

In addition to its protective features, the dual glazing on the Windquest Series contributes to indoor environmental quality by reducing sound transmittance levels. Tempered, impact laminated, insulating glass is standard on Windquest Series sliding patio doors for additional safety, and may be requested for windows as well. For greater energy efficiency, Windquest Series vinyl windows and doors can be ordered with LoE²-270 insulating glass with argon, enabling them to meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® guidelines in all climate zones.

The Windquest Series includes casement, awning, sliding, single hung, and double hung windows, and sliding doors in a full range of sizes, shapes and configurations. Available standard in white or beige, the products also may be color-coated on the exterior with a polyurethane color finish.

To learn more about Kolbe's Windquest Series, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

3D Models of TerraSpan Doors & Windquest Windows

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:28:06 GMT

24/7 access to BIM models, no registration required

Kolbe added Windquest® Series windows and TerraSpan™ lift and slide doors to its collection of more than 1,000 two- and three-dimensional window and door models. Available on-demand, designers and builders no longer need to register on Kolbe's site to access these Building Information Modeling (BIM) Revit® and Google™ SketchUp models.

The 3-D files are located on Kolbe's Website, in the Google™ 3D Warehouse http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse, in the SmartBIM Library™ http://www.reedconstructiondata.com/companies/4515, and now, at RevitCity, http://www.revitcity.com/.

"Our Revit 3-D models are linked to specifications, 2-D details, performance and so much more to support the information portion of BIM," explains Cindy Bremer, Kolbe's director of marketing "With BIM, you not only can design the exact product, but add and connect with external data sources to instantly compile quantity takeoffs. Visual communications are a more effective way to show the details and options that Kolbe offers architects and their customers."

Kolbe's current selection of BIM tools and 3-D models includes its full line of Ultra Series premium, aluminum-clad wood windows and doors. Part of Kolbe's Ultra Series, the new models for TerraSpan lift and slide doors showcase additional, dynamic functionality. This helps demonstrate the doors' potential for expansive, open room design, incorporating up to 10 panels per unit with a 12-foot maximum panel height. As each panel is 2.25-inches thick, they require minimum space when open -- either nesting behind one another, or recessing into a pocket opening to disappear completely from view.

Providing a view with enhanced protection, Kolbe's hurricane impact rated Windquest Series windows are a popular choice for regions subject to severe storms, tornadoes or gale-force winds. Windquest Series products currently are provided as SketchUp models. More models will be added on a continuous basis.

Kolbe Windows Restore Functionality to 1940s Historic Housing

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:59:26 GMT

Kolbe Latitude Series Vinyl Windows Chosen for Style, Quality

Wausau, Wis. (December 1, 2008) -- Originally built in 1939 to house the growing, suburban population of pre-World War II Washington, D.C., Westover's seven-acre, garden-style apartment complex is undergoing substantial rehabilitation. The 18-month, $53 million historic renovation will completely update all eight buildings and their 153 units when all phases are finished in 2010.

As an historic property, the buildings' updates are closely scrutinized for aesthetic, performance and cost compliance by the owner, AHC Inc.; general contractor C.M. Parker & Co. Inc.; the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the Virginia Housing Development Authority. To comply with the collective standards and incentives, Neale Architects recommended appropriate design and material choices including Kolbe's historically styled, ENERGY STAR® rated, vinyl windows.

"We know the original 1940s windows were ordinary, wood, single-glazed, double-hung windows with rope balances. We know that these had been replaced in the late '80s with thrift, aluminum-clad windows from the era," says Wayne Neale, AIA, and namesake for Neale Architects. "These are straightforward, pragmatic little buildings. At times, we wanted to embellish them, but you had to grab your hand with the pencil in it to make it look like it did in 1939."

"We tried to find an affordable window that more closely resembled the wood originals, was agreeable to the Department of Interior and our client," adds Neale Architects' Joel de Leon. "Essentially, we wanted to find the least expensive window that met the qualifications."

"It was a struggle to find one to fit this criteria," admits Neale. "Previously, a vinyl window had been approved for historic renovation projects, but after the Department of Interior saw it installed, it was determined to be a lesser quality window."

"Kolbe is not like other vinyl window companies. They've really made a vinyl window that looks like a wood one," says Tom Sanders, general manager of Shenandoah Sash and Door. Joe Weatherly, project manager for AHC, agrees, "They put together several, able windows. But wouldn't you know it, the historic consultant picked the nicest, highest quality product, and approved Kolbe. It was very much a choice of style; we really like how it looked when it was installed."

The look of Kolbe's Latitude Series' profile and mullions appealed to the decision-makers, notes de Leon. "The weightiness, the thickness of the mull, and the traditional proportions, all resembled the original windows' look more closely. Adding to this, the fact that they're essentially maintenance-free and within budget, truly raised the bar."

From Weatherly's perspective, "The functionality is more important to me -- the insulated glass, the ENERGY STAR rating." Kolbe's Latitude Series features high-performance glass with PDLs (performance divided lites) using a 5/8-inch bar mimicking true divided lites. To further match the desired look and opening, Kolbe manufactured two, double hung windows as a single unit with a 6-inch mull, to give the appearance of being two separate windows. "Kolbe figured out how to create the twin window 'look' as an already-assembled, structural unit for easy installation," says Sanders. "To install the units, the existing sashes are removed, the existing sill is cut out, and the new window slides inside the opening. Kolbe provided wood extension jambs through which the window is attached into the existing frame. Since the new window encapsulates the existing frame, lead abatement was minimized."

When all phases of renovation are complete, Westover's residents not only will enjoy new windows, but also new kitchens, baths, windows, electrical, plumbing, individual hot water heaters, individual HVAC systems and roofs. In addition, a new community room and leasing office are scheduled to be constructed, and the landscaping returned to the 1940's garden-feel intended in the original site plan.

To learn more about Kolbe's historically styled, vinyl windows and doors, or other renovation solutions, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Westover Renovation Team – 1649 N. Longfellow Street, Arlington, Va.

Owner: AHC Inc., www.ahcinc.org
Architect: Neale Architects, LLC
General contractor: C.M. Parker & Co. Inc.
Window supplier: Shenandoah Sash and Door
Window manufacturer: Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.
Mechanical/electrical/plumbing engineers: S3E-Klingemann Inc.
Structural engineers: Mesen Associates
Landscape architect: Rhodeside Harwell, Inc.

Kolbe Presents Old World Classic Curved Double Hung Windows

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:06:29 GMT

Elegant Style, Effortless Chain & Pulley Operation

Wausau, Wis. (December 1, 2008) -- For designers and builders interested in turning the ordinary into the exquisite, Kolbe offers Old World Classic double hung windows. Showcasing brass chains and pulleys for nearly effortless operation, these windows capture the high style of yester-year.

Available in standard or custom sizes, Old World Classic double hung windows create compelling visual interest, especially when incorporated into turret walls, placed atop floor-to-ceiling window units, or accentuating curved, panoramic, corner units on buildings. Curved double hung windows dramatize unique rooflines and shapes, and serve as stand-alone solutions for dormers and gables.

Complementing the aesthetic flexibility with performance, Old World Classic double hungs come in a full range of finishes and glass choices. Energy-efficient dual-insulating glass units are standard on Old World Classic double hung windows. Options include laminated glass for safety; single-glazed, curved glass (as pictured); finely crafted glass and more.

Old World Classic double hung windows feature fine craftsmanship and construction in pine, mahogany, oak and other custom wood species with the option to be painted with durable K-Kron II finish. Optional performance divided lites may be selected to simulate true divided lites for a historic look.

To learn more about Old World Classic double hung windows for Kolbe's windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Products Help Turks & Caicos Defeat Hurricane Ike

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:21:41 GMT

K-Force Impact-Resistant Windows & Doors Withstand Punishing 140-160 MPH Winds

Wausau, Wis. (October 1, 2008) – As the world knows, the Turks & Caicos Islands recently were battered by Hurricane Ike, a Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 140 mph and gusts exceeding 160 mph. Though Ike's eye passed directly over the Turks & Caicos Sporting Club, a 1,100-acre private residential community on the islands' southernmost chain, damage to the development was minimal. Kolbe's K-Force™ impact certified windows and doors played a key role in enabling the Sporting Club residences to withstand Ike's assault.

During the last two years a mix of Kolbe K-Force windows and doors, including double-hungs, casements, exterior doors and paneled French doors, were installed in 14 exclusive one- and two-story Sporting Club properties, known as the Le Grand and Columbus Beach Cottages. Each two-story home features 20 windows, and eight sets of doors. The one-story homes feature 18-20 windows, and six to eight sets of doors.

"Aside from a handful of non-impact windows protected by heavy shutters, the windows and all of the doors on these residences are Kolbe K-Force products, which feature laminated glass that is designed to stay intact even if the glass is broken," notes Johnny Hutton, senior outside sales representative and window specialist of HomeSouth Architectural, and one of Kolbe's distributors for the Le Grand and Columbus Beach projects.

According to witnesses, Hurricane Ike damaged the majority of homes in some areas of the Grand Turk & South Caicos Islands. Thanks to thorough planning and state of the art construction including Kolbe's K-Force products, Ambergris Cay was able to weather the storm. In fact, Calico Jack's Pavilion, a key gathering spot for Turks & Caicos Sporting Club residents and visitors, was up and running within days of the hurricane, thanks in part to the strength of K-Force windows and doors.

All of Turks & Caicos Sporting Club's structures meet or exceed U.S. Hurricane Building Standards. Since the Sporting Club's inception, it has adhered to a Hurricane Preparedness Plan that is continuously updated as each new homesite or club amenity is introduced.

Most of the Kolbe K-Force windows and doors installed on the Le Grand and Columbus Beach properties are standard sizes plus a few specially sized casement windows. "Kolbe's K-Force products not only provided superior storm protection, they also met the client's strict architectural expectations," says Hutton. Installation was handled by Jaca TCI and TDMG Concordia, which followed Kolbe's strict hurricane zone guidelines.

"The fact that Turks & Caicos Sporting Club walked out of Hurricane Ike with all infrastructure and homes in great shape is testimony to the high level of planning, engineering and construction of the services and structures on Ambergris Cay," stated Dr. Michael Misick, Premier of Turks & Caicos Islands.

Turks & Caicos Sporting Club was created by DPS Sporting Club Development Company, LLC, which develops private, environmentally sensitive, single-family residential sporting communities on historic and unique properties, with a commitment to preserving the distinct character of each location. For more information on Turks & Caicos Sporting Club at Ambergris Cay, please visit http://www.tcsportingclub.com.

To learn more about Kolbe and its hurricane impact-resistant windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Galveston Homes with K-Force Products Withstand Hurricane Ike

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:19:26 GMT

Beachfront Houses Emerged Intact

Wausau, Wis. (October 1, 2008) – Hurricane Ike's onslaught of the Galveston area was so intense that most homes in the storm's path were severely damaged – if not completely destroyed – by its 115 mph winds. Notable exceptions were a pair of beachfront houses that emerged intact, with the aid of K-Force™ impact-certified windows and doors from Kolbe.

With three stories and an average of 45 windows and 15 doors apiece, these multi-million dollar homes, which were still under construction, would seem to be tempting hurricane targets. "These houses were on the very front line of the hurricane, right on Galveston Beach, but the structures and the windows and doors beat the storm," said Bob Petersma, Houston area sales manager for Grand Openings, a multi-state distributor of Kolbe products.

"The builder, American Villas, had a chance to see the properties right after the storm, and told us how impressed and pleased they were at how Kolbe's K-Force windows and doors withstood Ike," added Petersma.

The K-Force windows and doors installed in the Galveston Beach homes are a mix of casements, sterling double-hungs and outswing doors in standard sizes with traditional styling and divided lites. All are from Kolbe's Ultra Series, which features traditional styling, wood interiors, aluminum cladding and laminated glass designed to stay intact even if the glass is broken.

Kolbe's K-Force window and door units are tested extensively to withstand hurricane force winds and the impact of flying debris, and meet or exceed the strict building codes of the coastal region. To learn more about Kolbe and its hurricane impact-resistant windows and doors, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Ocean House Restored using Kolbe Products

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:16:24 GMT

K-Force Impact Windows #1 Choice

Wausau, Wis. (Oct.ober 1, 2008) – For more than 135 years, The Ocean House resort hotel in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, offered one of New England's most spectacular ocean views. Serious structural issues forced its closure in 2003, but in early 2010, a new Ocean House will open on the original site as the centerpiece of a mixed-use development. The $135 million project broke ground in autumn 2007.

Ocean House's developer, Bluff Avenue LLC, seeks to the restore the romance and historic elegance of the grand Victorian hotel with its gabled tower, mansard roof, and sweeping porches. A new North Wing will be added to take advantage of the sloping site to step down the hill toward the ocean. For enduring performance, improvements to the former property include enhanced structural integrity, and hurricane-force protection.

"Ocean House's project team found the right balance of style and function with our K-Force products," says Cindy Bremer, director of marketing with Kolbe. "The traditional design detailing and wood construction of these windows and doors match well with the New England aesthetic. Without modifying this appearance, all of our K-Force products are tested to withstand intense coastal conditions and impact code for the area."

To ensure proper performance, H. Carr & Sons Construction of Rhode Island is installing a total of 530 Kolbe K-Force windows and 123 doors on Ocean House. These include a combination of aluminum-clad Ultra Series and all-wood Heritage Series products. In addition to their hurricane impact-resistance, all products come standard with energy-efficient LoE² coating that reduces solar heat gain, helping control energy expenses.

The high-performance energy and impact features are integral to Kolbe's K-Force window and door designs. This means structural reinforcements are invisible, allowing clear, safe, comfortable window views from 48 boutique hotel rooms and 24 year-round residential suites. Twelve of the suites will be secluded oceanfront cottage residences with impeccable detailing. All suites will offer year-round services found in the finest hotels such as full-service restaurant and bar room service, spa facilities, an indoor pool, workout facilities, and access to one of the finest beaches in New England.

In less than 18 months, visitors and residents will enjoy a luxurious seaside experience from The Ocean House. To prepare this destination for their arrival will be the result of successfully overcoming many challenges. To accomplish this, Bluff Avenue, LLC assembled a team of nationally recognized professionals. The Peregrine Group, a Rhode Island-based real estate development and advisory firm, has been acting as development manager for the project since the purchase of the original Ocean House by Bluff Ave., LLC. Pinnacle Advisory Group, a Boston-based boutique hospitality consulting firm; Centerbrook Architects, a Connecticut architecture and planning firm; and Dimeo Construction, a construction management and building company based in Providence, Rhode Island.

Among the first identified challenges, despite the hope that the core of the historic hotel could be rehabilitated, Centerbrook found overwhelming deficiencies that made this goal unrealistic. Instead, the decision was made to replicate the original building using salvaged historic elements and to reconstruct capitals, balustrades, and other features and integrate them into the new building.

Centerbrook Architects has taken precise measurements and molds of all interior and exterior architectural elements to enable the most accurate reproduction of these details possible. The original reception desk and the old stone fireplace were carefully removed and are being meticulously restored. All salvageable, architectural elements from the Captain's Room were dismantled and preserved for re-installation. And, an historic balcony and Palladian window are being restored and will be installed into the building.

Carrying the intended, historic styling throughout Ocean House, Kolbe's window and doors feature 5/8-inch performance divided lite (PDL) bars to replicate the former muntin grids, while providing modern performance. In addition, Kolbe is manufacturing custom, curved glass units and unique sill design options that address Universal Design criteria and meet ADA requirements.

"We're proud our products can serve Ocean House's many requirements," says Bremer. "We realize the development, design and construction team evaluated several window and door products." She explains, "They narrowed it down to four brands that they felt could do the job. The four windows were installed by the same installation crew. Then, the four windows were evaluated for ease and time taken to install them, overall appearance, performance specifications, impact performance, and quality considerations. The design team conducting the review selected Kolbe as the number one window. We were chosen as the project window based on this exhaustive selection process."

When complete, the new Ocean House will have 120,495 square feet of finished, conditioned interior space, which adds 20,253 square feet to the original structure. To better blend with the neighborhood, the hotel's face to the community will appear nearly 7,000 square feet smaller. This less imposing scale will be accomplished by reducing the amount of gross square feet measured at the lobby level and all of the floors above. Event spaces and amenity functions such as the pool now will be below the lobby level and enclosed within the protective arms of the new hotel's two wings. This shields them from view, while remaining a welcoming destination.

"There are few people today associated with the hotel who do not have or know a story to tell about the Ocean House and its beach. Preserving the fabled hotel and its grounds will keep the old memories alive and set a stage for new ones to come," says Nicholas C. Moore, Bluff Avenue, LLC's president.

To learn more about Ocean House, please see http://www.oceanhouseri.com.

For more information on Kolbe's windows and doors, call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Acquires Point Five Windows

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:23:14 GMT

Serving Ultra-Luxury Markets

Wausau, Wis. (September 1, 2008) - Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc. has acquired Point Five Windows, Inc. of Fort Collins, Colo., a manufacturer of custom, wood windows and doors for palatial residential estates and light commercial projects. As privately held companies, terms were not disclosed.

"The acquisition of Point Five is a continuation of our strategy to advance our nationwide leadership position in the high-end window and door market. Kolbe continues to evolve as an organization that provides significant value to those customers who desire highly-customized windows and doors," says Mike Salsieder, Kolbe's president.

He continues, "Point Five Windows offers expanded opportunities to collaboratively serve architects, designers, builders and owners of ultra-luxury homes and commercial projects. Simultaneously, Kolbe's recognized brand of premium windows and doors remains a powerful force serving the high-end window and door market through a network of dealers and distributors."

"As one of the largest manufacturing employers in North Central Wisconsin, we are delighted to welcome Point Five as part of our extended family. Whether in Fort Collins, Colorado, or Wausau, Wisconsin, our employees share a commitment to always using the best materials and superior craftsmanship to produce the finest windows and doors available," emphasizes Salsieder.

Doug Wichlacz, Point Five Windows' vice president of operations, agrees, "Both Kolbe and Point Five share a dedication to our customers, our craftsmanship and our communities. It's a great match that will benefit all involved and served by our businesses."

Point Five Windows primarily works with architects and builders of exceptional custom homes around the country, many of which are more than 25,000 square feet. These prestigious residences typically are located in resort and vacation destinations from Malibu to Aspen to Kiawah Island and the Bahamas. According to Randy Helzer, Point Five Windows' vice president of sales, "Two of the three homes recently for sale in the U.S. and valued over $100 million used Point Five Windows."

Now, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc., Point Five Windows' management team will continue to oversee operations; service architects, contractors and other customers, and to produce high-quality windows and doors. "Ensuring the ongoing success, we expect to maintain all existing personnel, products, practices and channels to market. In fact, we plan to expand awareness throughout the country and increase demand for Point Five Windows' customized products," says Salsieder.

Point Five Windows provides the flexibility and perspective to craft all of its products to exacting design details and specifications. Customers choose from any wood species, clad them in copper or bronze with custom patina finishes, and match them with European styled hardware. They may select simulated or true divided lites, radius and bent glass forms, and other glazing options.

In addition to traditional styles of windows and doors. Point Five Windows also creates unique product configurations including exterior pivot doors, bifolding doors, specialized radius and geometric shapes, and lift and slide doors. Each unit is designed and built to match the aesthetics and functionality specified by the homeowner -- from gigantic sizes to specialized shapes, from zero condensation to optimal energy efficiency.

For additional information on Point Five Windows, please see http://www.point-five-windows.com. To learn more about Kolbe, please visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Adds Arched-Top Option for Ultra Series Pocket Double Hung

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:24:04 GMT

Expanding Replacement Window Options

Wausau, Wis. (April 1, 2008) – Kolbe adds arched-topped, segment head windows to its selection of Ultra pocket double hung all-in-one replacement units that can be installed without having to remove existing trim and framework.

Simplifying window replacement without compromising quality or aesthetics, Kolbe’s Ultra pocket double hung, segment head windows can be installed from either the interior or exterior. Once the old sash are removed, the replacement unit is inserted into the opening and secured. The window’s 3.25-inch pocket jamb depth fits most standard applications.

Providing a clean, finished look, Ultra pocket double hung jambliners are concealed as paintable white PVC, or hidden from view by a wood-wrapped closure on the interior and an optional, extruded aluminum closure on the exterior. Made of a durable, 0.050-inch-thick extruded aluminum, the exterior frame and 1.75-inch-thick sash are coated with a 70% fluoropolymer finish in a broad palette of colors. Interiors may be requested with pre-finishing and specified in a variety of wood species.

Both upper and lower sash can be tilted in for easy cleaning and removal. They are fully weatherstripped for a tight seal and come standard with HºK LoE2-270 insulating glass. This and other high-performance glazing choices from Kolbe contribute to achieving green design and energy-efficient goals.

As with all of Kolbe’s windows and doors, Ultra pocket double hung, segment head windows are each made to meet customers’ exact size specifications, allowing for complete customization. Helping create a signature look, Kolbe offers three styles of divided lites -- PDLs (performance divided lites), wood removable grilles, and grilles-in-the-airspace. Optional sash lift handles complete the traditional design detailing and can be colored-matched to the windows’ sash locks.

To learn more about Kolbe Ultra pocket double hung, segment head windows, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Features New Wire Brush Finish

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:25:24 GMT

Stylishly rugged finish for windows and doors

Wausau, Wis. (January 1, 2008) – For homeowners seeking a rugged, well-loved look for their windows and doors, Kolbe offers a new, wire brushed finish.

Capturing the stressed/de-stressed style, Kolbe's wire brushed finish can be specified for interior and exterior, in any wood species. The worn appearance of this wire brushed finish may be selected for any size window and most doors. Optional grilles enhance the architectural detail of Kolbe's windows and doors. Both TDL (true divided lites) and PDL (performance divided lites) are available with the wire brushed finish.

Beyond aesthetics, homeowners also may benefit from selecting one of Kolbe's energy-efficient glass choices. High-performance, insulated glazing such as H°K (pronounced "high kay") and LoE, help reduce air conditioning costs in the summer and heating costs in the winter while maximizing natural views and daylight.

To learn more about Kolbe’s wood finishes, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

Kolbe Contributes Windows and Doors to Model Accessible Home

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:24:53 GMT

Chairs & Cares Home a Prototype for Universal Design

Wausau, Wis. (January 1, 2008) – It's an uncomfortable thought, but the longer we live, the more likely we are to develop physical limitations. In fact, one out of six Americans will experience a major disability during their life. And it's no secret that America is aging significantly: By 2012, there will be more people age 65+ than in all the other age categories combined. These figures make it easy to see the growing need for universally accessible living accommodations that enable people to live independently.

Surprisingly, the burgeoning consumer need for accessible housing has not resulted in a proliferation of accessible single-family residences. It was this very absence that prompted Wayne Geurink and his nonprofit group, Chairs and Cares, to develop a demonstration model accessible home in Wausau, Wis.

Officially opened in October, the Chairs and Cares Model Accessible Home was designed by Roger Plamann, an architectural instructor at Wausau's Northcentral Technical College (NTC), with input from a 16 person advisory board. General contractor Keller Builders started construction on the $1.2 million project, which is sited on the college's campus, in Spring 2006. The prototypical residence is operated by Midstate Independent Living Consultants, a nonprofit agency that serves people with disabilities in north-central and northeastern Wisconsin.

Virtually all of the model house's design elements and building components were donated. Commited to the project from its earliest stages, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co. contributed 51 windows, 21 interior doors and entry doors. "Kolbe was the very first contributor to sign on to the project," says Geurink. "We were very impressed with their enthusiasm and commitment, and their superior products provide the design and operation flexibility that accessible design demands."

"Wayne and his team have done an outstanding job with this model accessible home," praises Mike Salsieder, president of Kolbe & Kolbe. He comments that "as an organization, Kolbe is sensitive to the fact that there are many people with physical limitations and that a significant portion of our population is aging. We were privileged to be able to work with Wayne, and members of NTC, as well as other companies in our area to help provide a facility that showcases a construction that allows people with physical limitations to live independently within a residential setting."

The entire residence serves as a showcase where people with physical disabilities or limitations and others interested in accessibility can experience accessible living design, see innovative adaptive equipment and technology solutions, and obtain information about building modifications, equipment, furniture, fixtures, and appliances.

"Our vision is to have the Chairs and Cares Model Accessible Home be successful enough to influence other parts of the country to develop similar properties," says Geurink.

"This facility serves as a basis to provide builders, architects and homeowners throughout the region with an opportunity to incorporate innovative ideas into their own construction plans," Salsieder continues. "My wife, Mary, is an occupational therapist and a member of the Chairs and Cares Board. She has often impressed upon me the importance of understanding the difficulties that people with physical limitations face every day."

The project has already made an impression on at least one builder: Lewis Reeves, president of Lewis Reeves Homes in Atlanta, who says, "I've been building houses for 30 years. Until I met Wayne, I had no idea where I'd turn - professionally or personally - to help someone with a physical disability to live as comfortably and independently as possible." Reeves also is president of Coan Millworks, a distributor of Kolbe windows and doors, which are often featured in his clients' high-end, custom homes.

Intrigued by its residential customization, Reeves followed the development of the Chairs and Cares Model Accessible House from design through completion. "It's a great concept, and there's such a need for this. There ought to be one in every city across the country. Wayne's example is truly inspiring."

A retired Wausau Insurance executive, Geurink had suffered paralyzing injuries from a car accident in 1991. In 2001, the idea for the Chairs and Cares Model Accessible Home came to him during discussions among members of a spinal cord injury group in which someone would inevitably say, "Wouldn't it be nice if there was a place where people could see, or get information about accessible housing?"

He discovered that there wasn't a single example of a universally designed accessible residence in the central Wisconsin area: "I felt very strongly that this area needed a demonstration home that would highlight ways for people to keep their independence if they become disabled, or as they age or become less agile." The home is also intended to give architects and builders ideas about what can be done to make new homes or remodeled homes more functional for people with physical limitations.

"No matter what the situation, it would feel overwhelming to have to figure out an independent living solution, especially if you're faced with a combination of circumstances such as being in a wheelchair and having sight or hearing impairments," says Reeves. "I certainly have the structural know-how, but without the Chairs and Cares example, it would take a lot of trial and error to provide the best and safest accommodations. And it's one thing to try to address these challenges through new construction, but adapting and renovating an existing home would be a much more difficult undertaking."

"Surveys show that most of us want to remain in our own homes as we age; enabling more people to live on their own for as long as possible means huge dollar savings for individuals, families and for society as a whole," says Geurink. Underscoring his point are statistics from AARP showing that in 2006, the average annual cost for nursing home care in the U.S. was $68,800.

Homeowners, builders and architects are not the only ones taking note of this. This summer, 90 members of the Occupational Health Nurses Organization visited the model home. Those touring the Chairs and Cares Model Accessible Home encounter a number of general design considerations that are essential to accessibility, including the height and location of light switches, electrical outlets, phones and phone jacks, heating and cooling controls, toilets, sinks, counter tops, and cabinets.

"To people with low strength and/or less control of their upper body, an inch here or there can make the difference between dependence and independence," says Geurink. Navigating doors and doorways, and opening and closing windows are among the biggest challenges for people with limited mobility. The home's quality casement windows enable operation for a person with limited strength, and the dining room's bay window operates with a push-button, electronic opener.

Throughout the model home, longer-than-usual manual cranks make windows easier to open and close. Oversized lever locks are located near window bottoms, making them easier to use. For bay windows, locks were placed closer to the interior, giving ready access to people in wheelchairs. All window treatments were designed to be easy to manipulate as well.

Geurink notes that accessible windows aren't just about operability, but enjoyment, too. The windows have a maximum sill height of 33 inches, allowing viewing from a seated position. "Variety in window types is also important, which is why the home has some floor to ceiling windows. These allow for an unobstructed view, as well as letting lots of light in. The large southern exposure windows create a passive solar effect, and make the rooms bright and sunny."

To make entry and exit easier, the home's exterior doors feature a flush-to-floor sill. Engineered into the doorframes as integral components, the sills ensure that the level of the finished floors align with the thresholds for wheelchair accessibility. People using crutches, canes, or walkers also benefit from the flush thresholds.

All of the exterior and interior doors are wider than usual (36 inches) to comfortably accommodate passage by people in wheelchairs. Interior swinging doors are fitted with lever handles, making them easier for people with limited dexterity to operate than doors with knobs or latch handles. The utility closet door is not only oversized, it has an additional pull bar mounted to its surface to make it easier to close.

Similarly, the home's closets feature double doors and bi-fold doors, making them easier to open and close for people with restricted mobility and diminished hand strength. Pocket doors provide unobstructed interior openings to a laundry and bathroom. Geurink explains, "The pocket doors are easy for people with low strength to open, and because they do not require any swing clearance, they stay completely out of the way, making them a great convenience for visually impaired people and for people in wheelchairs."

The windows and exterior doors all feature energy-efficient LoE2-270 glass with double glazing and weather stripping to prevent draft and temperature variations. For minimal exterior maintenance, Kolbe Ultra Series windows are finished in Hartford Green 70% fluoropolymer and are trimmed in oak to match the interior doors' classic look.

The home illustrates that barrier elimination and a functional floor plan that eases everyday living are design essentials. "The home's two-story, 4,700-square-foot size might strike some as big, but each room needed to be large enough to accommodate group tours -- and to demonstrate a five-foot turning radius for wheelchairs. Wheelchair turning radius needs to be taken into account on at least one side of the bed, alongside the toilet, in front of the bathroom sink, in the roll-in shower, between work areas in the kitchen, and in walk-in/roll-in closets. Having wider hallways for wheelchair transit is also critical," says Geurink.

An elevator provides second-floor access for people in wheelchairs and others with limited strength or mobility, and a stairway lift is also planned. Stairway steps have a contrasting color edge to help vision impaired people see the edge of each step. Hand rails on stairs and in the extra-wide, 48-inch hallways provide stability for people with limited mobility. To aid wheelchair passage, the home's carpeted rooms have low-nap carpeting.

The garage has several accessibility features, including parking spaces large enough to allow for driver-side loading and unloading of a wheelchair, and for a wheelchair lift on the passenger side or at the rear of the vehicle. Entering the house from the garage, visitors notice an oversized storm-safe room that comfortably fits wheelchairs. Nearby, the utility rooms' fuse box controls are located on the main living level of the home, and the furnace is easily accessible, allowing for a person in a wheelchair to replace the filter. A programmable thermostat provides energy efficiency and convenience.

When natural daylight from the home's many windows is not available, energy efficient fluorescents illuminate the interior. All light switches feature rockers, making them easier for people with limited hand dexterity or coordination to operate. To make them easy to find, the home's light switches are located adjacent to doors, and are horizontally aligned with door handles.

Grab bars and non-slip shower and tub floors also are among the home's accessible features. "Common sense would suggest that any new or remodeled home would include these, because even the most able-bodied person can slip and fall. In fact, statistics show that slips and falls -- especially while using the tub or shower -- are among the most common household-related injuries, and can be serious or even deadly," says Geurink.

In the bathrooms, tilted mirrors over the bathroom sink accommodate people in a seated position. The faucets are motion-activated, and the medicine cabinets are mounted at counter height, allowing visibility and accessibility to its contents. Some of the home's faucets and shower controls feature anti-scald mechanisms that automatically mix water to a pre-set temperature.

The kitchen's accessibility elements include a sink with an open space beneath to accommodate a wheelchair, and a motion-activated faucet. The under-counter dishwasher has front-mounted controls, and an open counter space on one side of the dishwasher enables easy access. The built-in oven has a side-hinged door, and all appliances are raised to permit easier wheelchair access. Several counters and cabinets are height-adjustable, and a 10x7-inch toe space allows for the front wheels and footrest of a wheelchair to clear the cabinets.

The living room serves as a large meeting room. The dining room also does double duty as a resource library and offers take-home information about the house. The home's ample size provides for a large display area for sight and hearing related equipment, makes it easier to handle group tours, as well as enables future growth flexibility. Geurink adds that the home's two-story floor plan accommodates many settings and features, which "can easily be changed or modified as accessibility-related fixtures and equipment change over time."

For more on Chairs and Cares, please visit www.choicesil.com.

To learn more about Kolbe products that contribute to independent living, please call 800-955-8177 or visit www.kolbe-kolbe.com.