Experts see opening for windows in 2021

After a challenging 2020 for most companies, fenestration industry analysts predict the U.S. window and door industry will see a 25-percent increase and reach $34 billion in 2021, up from $27.2 billion in 2020, according to published reports. Furthermore, fenestration market researchers said the industry remained mostly resilient throughout 2020 and are optimistic for 2021.

These trends will be highlighted at the Spring Committee Virtual Meeting March 29-31.

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) Research Director Nick St. Denis will discuss his survey findings about the current business environment and predictions that the U.S. housing market will remain strong, despite the ongoing pandemic.

Also at the Spring Committee Virtual Meeting, representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will discuss changes within their respective agencies under the Biden administration and the possibility of new initiatives and incentives for energy-efficient windows. Marc LaFrance, windows technology manager for the DOE, and Doug Anderson, project manager for the EPA’s Energy Star Program, will also share opportunities for manufacturers to get involved and become champions for energy efficiency in the fenestration industry.

Additionally, Rob Tenent, scientist at the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), will introduce NFRC’s webinar series exploring the latest innovations, technological advancements, and research in windows, doors, and skylights. Tenent will share what’s happening at the national labs and ways for manufacturers to stay abreast of technologies ranging from photovotalics to dynamic glass to aerogel.