© 2007 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Fall 2007
Author: Tom Wadsworth
Pages 6-36

NEWSLINES

PRODUCTS

Chamberlain Introduces Fingerprint Entry

In August, Chamberlain introduced the LiftMaster Fingerprint Keyless Entry (Model 379LM) that eliminates the need to memorize a code or share it with others.

“This product will position our dealers at the forefront of safety and security and provides them with a proprietary product not available through other professional installing dealers,” says Dan Nixa, director of marketing.

The wireless, codeless unit can read up to four unique fingerprints to open a garage door or gate. Backed by a one-year warranty, the product is compatible with all LiftMaster 315MHz garage door openers and commercial operators and all 315MHz LiftMaster and Elite gate operators.

The system features a weatherproof slide-up cover and operates on four AAA batteries (included). The unit shuts off after 10 seconds of non-use to preserve battery life. Installation is quick and easy; enrolling user fingerprints can be done in four easy steps. www.chamberlain.com

1st United Announces Embossed Carriage Doors

In August, 1st United Door Technologies introduced a new steel carriage house door. SteeLite offers an alternative for the price-conscious consumer in four unique designs.

The sections are made from 23-gauge steel, the heaviest-gauge steel carriage door available. Its “Hi-Def” embossments are recessed and beaded for a higher degree of resolution.

Its 28" steel panel provides the appearance of an old-style carriage door. Offered with a lifetime warranty, the door is available with 10 optional window treatments. www.firstudt.com

C.H.I. Adds New Fiberglass Doors

In July, C.H.I. Overhead Doors announced the 2700 Series, featuring a high-definition fiberglass face, a 25-gauge steel interior skin, and a thermally broken, foamed-in-place urethane core.

“This new door offers another high-end product to aid in the process of up-selling to the end user,” says Brian Beachy, marketing.

The 2700 Series is available in multiple panel design options and six factory-finished colors or can come unfinished for field gel staining. www.chiohd.com

Rytec Offers Self-Repairing Door

In July, Rytec introduced the Turbo-Seal Self-Repairing (SR) door, a high-speed, high-performance roll door for high-traffic environments. The high speed of the door and its full perimeter seal help maintain temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs.

The Turbo-Seal SR can take a hit from either direction, then instantly release and automatically reset itself without any downtime, human interaction, or damage to the door. The self-repair feature minimizes interruptions to a facility’s operations and reduces energy loss during the time it takes to repair the door. www.rytecdoors.com

Wayne-Dalton Adds Residential Full-View Door

In July, Wayne-Dalton announced its latest garage door, the Aluminum Full-View.

“We offer an Aluminum Full-View for our commercial applications, but we saw an opportunity to build our commitment to aesthetics and choice for residential doors,” says Bill Earnest, director of marketing and product management. “This style of door has endless design opportunities for consumers seeking Asian or modern-type looks.”

The door is available in a variety of residential colors. Windows options include luminescent and clear. The virtually maintenance-free and weather-resistant door is available in standard residential heights. www.wayne-dalton.com

Martin Door Broadens Color Palette

In August, Martin Door announced nine more color options: oak stone, copper gold, golden oak, walnut vein, red pine, “corten,” new copper, mahogany vein, and bronze.

Ken Martin, president, describes the new options as “wood tone colors” and said the options will add to the company’s carriage house aluminum door palette. Martin Doors are now available in real copper metal and 77 powder coat colors. www.martindoor.com

Clopay Adds New Options to Key Products

Gallery Goes Sandwich
In July, Clopay expanded its Gallery Collection line to include insulated three-layer sandwich construction options. The foam is embossed to fit the exterior steel and is pressure bonded to both the exterior and interior steel.

These 24-gauge steel Gallery Collection doors are available in two thicknesses, 1-3/8" and 2", with a thermal break.

Grand Harbor Is Storm Ready
Also in July, Clopay’s Grand Harbor Collection carriage house door became available with built-in WindCode reinforcement up to a level W-6 on Clopay’s rating scale.

As with all Clopay WindCode products, the door arrives storm ready. The reinforcement is engaged by simply locking it.

Clopay introduced the 2"-thick, 24-gauge steel Grand Harbor Collection earlier this year as an affordable carriage house solution for the builder market.

Polycarbonate Window Option Added
In July, Clopay introduced a new double-wall honeycomb 1/4"-thick polycarbonate window panel option for its commercial Model 902 and residential Avante Collection doors.

Available in both clear and bronze-tinted material, the window allows natural light to filter through while maintaining relative privacy. Compared to glass, polycarbonate panels are durable and lightweight, reducing wear and tear. Polycarbonate is corrosion resistant, and the glazed-panel construction reduces the transfer of heat or cold.

Impact-Resistant Windows for WindCode
In July, Clopay added a new impact-resistant window that meets the 2004 Florida Building Code requirements, including Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The window is for steel pan WindCode doors and costs about half as much as the original market offering.

The window is made of injected molded Lexan inserted into a window frame and then sealed around the perimeter with a shock-absorbing silicone adhesive to withstand impact. Window and frame are UV protected to prevent discoloration in extreme sunlight. www.clopaydoor.com

C.H.I. Announces New Carriage House Designs

In June, C.H.I. Overhead Doors added new design combinations for its 5000 series of carriage house doors. The 16 new configurations, available in all three models of the 5000 series, extend the total number to 24 designs.

Many of the new styles allow for an extra section of designer windows. The top section is available squared or arched, and stamped steel hardware can be upgraded to wrought iron hardware. www.chiohd.com

Wayne-Dalton and Veka Align to Offer Window System

In late 2007, Wayne-Dalton and Veka will launch a vinyl Window Integrated Storm Protection (WISP) system.

The system combines technology from Veka’s window and door designs, high-end PVC, European roller shutter technology, and Wayne-Dalton Fabric Shield to create a fully automated window-protection system that can be activated with the Wayne-Dalton Home Settings system.

The storm-protection system, which also reduces sound transmission and solar heat gain, can be deployed manually from inside the home or remotely by push button or Internet. The unit also includes a hidden shade and self-contained storage in the window frame.

WISP is code compliant with the International Building Code, Florida Building Code, and the Texas Department of Insurance. The product will be available in late 2007. www.wayne-dalton.com

Re-Source Adds Eagle Operators and JCM Controls

In August, Re-Source Industries announced the addition of Eagle residential and commercial gate operators for swing or slide gates.

Re-Source offers both economy and high-end Eagle models, in stock for immediate delivery. Eagle gate operators feature electronic control boards and are designed for simplified installation, setup, and maintenance.

Re-Source also announced the addition of JCM Side-Prog Radio Controls for commercial, residential, or gate applications.

The controls feature FCC-approved high frequency (868 MHz) with over 300' operating range. Side-Prog technology allows multiple transmitters to be added to one receiver simply by placing the devices side by side and pressing one button on each simultaneously for five seconds. www.re-sourceind.com

Criterion Folding Gates Are Now Galvanized

In July, Criterion Products announced that a hot-dipped galvanized finish is now provided as a standard feature on all models of LT Series folding gates. This weather-resistant alternative to a painted finish provides greater strength, more durability, and smoother operation.

The gates also feature 14-gauge steel lattice channels, zinc-plated solid steel rivets and washers, cast-iron pivot plugs, waist-high 3/4" cane bolt, and outrigger casters as an option.

Criterion folding gates, portable gates, gate cabinets, chain gates, and tarp products are part of the Lawrence Roll-Up Doors product line. www.criterionproducts.com and www.lawrencedoors.com

Action Now Protects Gutters

In August, Action Industries introduced Brush Guard, a residential and commercial gutter-protection system that prevents overflow due to clogging from tree litter.

The 4' spiral brushes are inserted directly into the gutter and under the hanger hardware. Leaves and plant debris pass over Brush Guard, while smaller particles filter through the nylon filaments and into the downspout.

Action Industries provides weather seals, hardware, and accessories to the garage door industry. www.action-ind.com

Flexon Offers Touch-Screen Control Box

In August, Flexon announced its touch-screen control box with Flex-Logic. The control box simplifies the way Speed-Master high-performance doors are installed, maintained, and serviced.

Located on the front of the control box, the touch screen shows the real-time position of the door panel and makes it easy to program door functions with the touch of a finger.

The screen includes a table of contents button, a diagnostics button for easy troubleshooting, events log, lock-out switch for unauthorized personnel, cycle counter, and floor-level adjustment of door open and closed limits. The Flex-Logic unit can be connected to a facility computer network.

The Flex-Logic interactive touch-screen control box was a finalist in the 2006 Plant Engineering Product of the Year competition. www.flexoninc.com

Samco Introduces Workhorse Rollformers

In June, Samco Machinery announced the Workhorse Series of economical rollformers. The Workhorse Series includes stud and track rollformers, roof panel rollformers, Purlin rollformers, and uncoilers.

Workhorse rollformers can also be used by the HVAC and shelving industries. www.samco-machinery.com

Sealeze Introduces Ez-Flex

In August, Sealeze introduced the Ez-Flex flexible strip brush for garage door weather seal applications.

Lighter than a typical strip brush and available in continuous lengths, Ez-Flex is a cost-effective alternative to the traditional strip brush. Designed for reducing air flow or minimizing or eliminating gaps, the metal-free Ez-Flex strip brush is ideal where pliability is critical.

Ez-Flex is recyclable, available in continuous lengths, and easy to install, even in the field. Requiring little or no maintenance when properly installed, Ez-flex is a flexible alternative to a metal-backed brush. www.sealeze.com

B&B Armr Announces New Slide Gate Operator

In August, B&B Armr Corporation (formerly B&B Electromatic) introduced a new LXL series hydraulic slide gate operator line. The operator is offered at a competitive price and was designed with the installer in mind.

The LXL line features cast motor mounts, angled control enclosure, and easy access to all components. The new easy-grip cover handles simplify removal and installation. The operator includes inherent entrapment sensing and meets or exceeds UL 325 standards.

The 1.5-HP LXL motor supports gates as long as 150'. The standard models are capable of a pull force of over 300 lbs., whereas the LXL-T has a pull force of over 900 lbs. The operator is available at speeds of 1 to 2.2'/sec. to satisfy classes 1, 2, 3, and 4 requirements of UL 325.

B&B Armr relocated its headquarters to Carrollton, Texas, in 2006. www.bb-armr.com

Rutland Unveils Commercial Slide Gate Operators

In June, Rutland released two new slide gate operators designed for easier installation.

These commercial-rated operators are available in two sizes, R2000 for gates up to 20' long and weighing 800 lbs. and R2500 for gates up to 40' long and weighing 1,000 lbs. Both operators are powered by a 24V DC motor capable of an opening speed of 12"/sec.

The control box includes features such as large replaceable terminals, multiple diagnostic LEDs to help with troubleshooting, and quick-install settings. Other customizable features include graduated soft-start/soft-stop and the ability to install a variety of accessories. www.rutlandpro.com

Paragon Launches Software for Garage Door Industry

In July, Paragon Computing Solutions announced the release of ParaDoor USA 2007 business management software specifically designed for the garage door industry.

The software update lets dealers and installers schedule jobs and equipment faster, personalize accounting features, get at-a-glance equipment and labor lists, and more.

An enhanced scheduler allows users to track day and time and color-code zones to quickly match and cross-reference jobs, areas, and technicians. Customizable search criteria are listed at the top of each form for easy locating of records. www.paradoorusa.com

Dock Park Assistant Announced

In July, M.S. Foster & Associates introduced the Teaco truck dock park assistant (Model Dockview-16) to take the guesswork out of backing up to a dock.

The Dockview park assistant features a large LED readout that indicates the distance to the dock, helping to prevent damage to truck and dock. www.msfoster.com

Reno A&E Adds Loop Detector

In August, Reno A&E announced the Model L-ATG single-channel Anti-Tailgating loop detector, designed to accurately count passenger vehicles.

A conventional detector’s counting function can be defeated by placing a metal object in the loop detection zone. The model L-ATG is not affected by this scheme and accurately counts vehicles that are spaced as closely as bumper-to-bumper.

The unit is ideal for auditing vehicle counts at parking facilities and detecting multiple passenger vehicles passing during a single gate cycle. When used with standard 2.5' x 6' loops, Model L-ATG provides greater than 99 percent passenger vehicle count accuracy. www.renoae.com

Seco-Larm Introduces New Sensor

In June, Seco-Larm began shipping its new SD-927PKC-NEQ No Touch Request-to-Exit Sensor as one of its access control products. The sensor uses reliable IR technology to open a door or activate a device with a simple wave of a hand. The trigger distance is up to 4".

Since it requires no physical contact, this sensor is ideal for use in hospitals, clinics, labs, cleanrooms (to reduce the risk of contamination), or for use in schools, factories, or offices—wherever an easy way to exit is required.

The 3-amp relay connects to electromagnetic door locks, door openers, or other access devices to allow entry or exit. The unit features a ring illuminator that turns from green to red when the sensor is activated. Installation is easy with a quick-connect screwless terminal block and requires standard 12V DC power. www.seco-larm.com

DeWalt Introduces New Impact Wrench and Drills

In August, DeWalt introduced its 18V impact wrench (DC821KA) with optimized ergonomics, enhanced control features, and improved durability. The DC821KA is ideal for garage door installers who require constant-duty durability in a lightweight package.

Its DeWalt-built motor has replaceable brushes and delivers 148 ft.-lbs. of torque. The tool is built with an electric brake, a variable-speed reversing switch, and a textured anti-slip comfort grip. Its length of 7-5/8" and weight of 5.3 lbs. allow users to access tighter areas and easily complete overhead applications.

DeWalt has also added a new line of heavy-duty compact drills in 12V, 14.4V, and 18V. The line is shorter in length, ranging from 7.8" to 8.7" for access into tight spaces. The weight has also been reduced, ranging from 3.8 lbs. to 4.9 lbs., to lessen user fatigue.

Offering increased speed, these new compact drill/drivers have single-sleeve ratcheting chucks and an LED work light for extra visibility. The compact drill is equipped with a DeWalt-designed frameless motor that produces more airflow for increased durability. www.dewalt.com

PEOPLE

Renne Retires From Raynor

In August, Raynor announced the retirement of Randall Renne, vice president of international sales, after 30 years of service. The retirement is effective Sept. 30, 2007.

“I am grateful to have worked with many wonderful people, Raynor distributors, fellow employees, and industry colleagues, here in the U.S.A. and around the world,” says Renne.

Renne began his career at Raynor working summers during high school on several production lines. After completing college, he joined Raynor as a territory sales manager. Through the 1980s, he was steadily promoted, first to regional sales manager, then manager of marketing development, and later to marketing manager, with daily responsibility for the sales and marketing teams.

In 1991, he was promoted to the Raynor management team and became the director of sales and marketing. In 1998, Renne became vice president of international sales and spearheaded remarkable growth in the company’s international sales.

Active in the industry, he served on the board of trustees for the American Rolling Door Institute (ARDI) from 1994 to 1996. In 1996, he joined the DASMA board of directors, serving also as chairman of the Rolling Door Division. He served as board vice president from 2002 to 2004, then as DASMA president from 2004 to 2006.

Chamberlain Announces Promotions and New Personnel

In August, Chamberlain announced a new vice president, key promotions, and new personnel in sales and marketing.

Mike Hegedus is now vice president of supply chain management. He comes from Elcoteq in Finland where he was global director of supply chain management. He has also been manufacturing engineer, production control manager, and supply chain software developer and researcher with IBM. Hegedus holds a doctorate in industrial engineering.

Professional Lines Marketing

Mark Lawlinger is now marketing manager for LiftMaster residential products. He comes from Sundyne Corporation, where he most recently served as manager of business development and strategy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in business administration.

Sandy Ofloy has accepted the newly created position of marketing services manager, responsible for developing and coordinating marketing programs. She will also lead the dealer service group and develop value-driven service programs. Previously, Ofloy was Chamberlain’s e-business manager for Chamberlain’s dealer extranet and Web sites.

Professional Lines Sales

Jim Bowers has been promoted to manager of sales operations, responsible for developing new sales programs for dealers, distributors, and national accounts. Bowers began his career with Chamberlain in 1992 and was previously the senior national accounts manager.

J Van de Linde has been promoted to senior national accounts manager, managing all of Chamberlain’s OEM business. He began his career with Chamberlain as an inside sales coordinator in 1993 and was promoted to field sales representative in 1994. In 2000, Van de Linde was promoted to national accounts sales manager.

Anthony Duda is now national account representative, supporting the activities of Chamberlain’s OEM customers. Duda comes to Chamberlain with a background in sales, marketing, and training from NEC, Sony, Hitachi, and Pioneer.

George Lewis has joined Chamberlain as training manager for professional products, responsible for training the inside and outside sales forces. Lewis has been an employee trainer working most recently at TZA, where he trained managers for companies like Yankee Candle and Nestle. Prior to that, he spent 14 years training managers for store grand openings for Circuit City. He has a bachelor’s degree in biology.

Marketing Communications

Sally Anderson, vice president of marketing communications, has taken on the additional responsibility of directing Chamberlain’s customer care department. With Chamberlain for 28 years, she will work to further enhance customer service programs including expanding Internet and extranet capabilities.

Pat Rooney has joined Chamberlain as director of marketing communications. He comes to Chamberlain with a background in marketing and communications at USA Today, OfficeMax, DDB Worldwide, Ace Hardware, Marketing Support, Inc., and Dontech/SBC. He holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising and an M.B.A.

Paul Accardo has joined Chamberlain as advertising and public relations manager for all North and South American brands. He will also help dealers maximize their advertising effectiveness. Accardo previously worked as director of marketing with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals and as advertising and communications manager with Raynor Worldwide. He holds a bachelor’s of business administration degree in marketing.

Charlene Leonard is now marketing communications manager, responsible for developing improved methods to efficiently communicate product and brand messages while providing support to the marketing and sales teams. Leonard was previously the advertising and public relations manager.

Customer Care

Susan Shepley has been promoted to the newly created position of manager of customer care. With 19 years of experience in customer service, Shepley will now oversee the 28-person department to maintain and enhance Chamberlain’s customer service standards.

Raynor Names New Vice President of Sales

In August, Raynor announced the appointment of Rick Considine to the position of vice president of sales.

Considine comes to Raynor with 22 years of sales experience with Lawson Products, a $500 million international distributor of products and services for several industries. Starting as a sales agent in 1985, Considine eventually became vice president of sales in 2002.

As vice president of sales, he was responsible for six regional managers, 50 field sales managers, 480 independent sales agents, a call center, inside sales, national accounts, and e-commerce. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University.

Akin Expands Responsibilities at Wayne-Dalton

In July, Wayne-Dalton announced that Rush Akin will expand his role to include national sales manager for the operator division. He previously served as product manager for operators, handling marketing, advertising, and public relations.

Akin will now work closely with sales directors and managers to increase operator sales. He will also manage the launch of the Z-Wave-enabled prodrive and idrive garage door openers. Akin received his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology.

DBCi Adds Marketing Position

In August, DBCi announced that Roc Hughes had been appointed the director of business development and marketing for the self-storage division, responsible for district sales managers and sales and marketing campaigns.

Hughes has been in the self-storage and commercial door industry since 2001. He previously worked as a software sales consultant for IBM. He holds a bachelor’s degree.

Janus Announces Staff Expansion

In July, Janus announced two staff changes to their U.S. and U.K. locations.

Buddy Mayfield has been promoted to Midwest regional sales manager, covering all states from North Dakota to Ohio. Mayfield has five years of experience in roll-up door manufacturing and two years as a technical sales estimator.

Graham Lomax has been appointed sales director of Gliderol Self Storage Solutions, a joint venture between Gliderol and Janus. He will direct sales for the U.K. and European markets. Lomax brings 20 years of experience in the self-storage, manufacturing, and construction industries.

PPG Announces New Marketing Staff

In August, PPG Industries’ industrial coatings business announced expansion and reorganization for the coil and extrusion coatings marketing staff.

The team is led by Scott Moffatt, who was named director of marketing in January. He is a 29-year veteran of PPG and previously held management posts for wood, transportation, and industrial coatings.

Jim Breslin has been tapped to market coil coatings to the building products market. He served previously as North American automotive manager for PPG’s architectural finishes business. He has been with PPG since 1999.

Trac-Rite Hires National Sales Manager

In May, Trac-Rite Door announced the hiring of Gary MacDonald as its new national sales manager, responsible for developing new business opportunities, managing sales growth, assisting with product development, and directing the sales department.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in business and brings 20 years of experience in competitive sales, manufacturing, distribution, and channel strategies in both national and international markets.

American Spring Wire Makes Key Appointments

In June, American Spring Wire (ASW) announced the promotion of Bill Snyder to executive vice president. He will retain his sales, marketing, and purchasing responsibilities and will be the direct report for the three ASW factories.

Employed by ASW for 10 years, Snyder previously held the positions of vice president-commercial and general sales manager. Before coming to ASW, Snyder worked for AK Steel in several sales and marketing management capacities. He holds a B.S. in chemical engineering.

Todd Roberts is now ASW’s general sales manager, responsible for sales and marketing of ASW’s commercial, shaped, and valve quality wire products. Before joining ASW, Roberts worked for Worthington Steel in sales. He holds a B.S. in business administration.

COMPANIES

Safe-Way Door and Ankmar Announce Merger

In August, Safe-Way Door and Ankmar announced a business merger of Ankmar’s steel door operations in Kansas City, Kan., and Safe-Way’s operations in Warsaw, Ind. The merged organization is managed in Warsaw by Safe-Way Door and key members of Ankmar’s team.

Ankmar remains an independent company, owned by Gallagher Industries in Denver, Colo., continuing operations as the largest garage door installation and wholesale company in Colorado and as the manufacturer and national distributor of CladPanel products.

“Our owners … are very excited about the opportunities and synergies this partnership presents for both companies,” says Frank Gallucci, Safe-Way president.

The merged firm sells Safe-Way products and Ankmar steel products and distributes Ankmar’s CladPanel products. Ankmar and Safe-Way Door both manufacture residential, commercial, and industrial garage doors in wood, steel, and aluminum.

Linear Signs Distribution Deal With Amarr

In July, Amarr Garage Doors began selling and shipping Linear operators, stocking them in 63 nationwide Amarr Door Centers.

The initial showroom focus is on Linear’s residential garage door openers, though Amarr now offers all of Linear’s other entry systems products—commercial door operators, gate operators, access control systems, and radio controls.

“Linear and Amarr are two of the most respected names in the garage door industry,” says Larry Foisie, vice president of entry systems for Linear. “Dealers will now benefit by having two proven product lines available at 63 locations across the country.”

“Linear is a strategic addition for us,” says Patrick O’Sullivan, Amarr’s vice president of marketing and new ventures. “They have one of the most versatile product lines in the business, a reputation for product quality, and a solid support team.”

Chamberlain Acquires International Electronics

In July, Chamberlain announced that it had acquired International Electronics, Inc. (IEI) of Vancouver, Wash., as a part of its ongoing growth plans in the access control industry.

Established in 1985, IEI makes consumer and professional electronic products under such brands as Oracle and Reporter and is known for their innovative use of wireless technologies for security and access control.

“This acquisition gives Chamberlain the ability to leverage IEI’s existing array of wireless technologies throughout our residential and commercial access control product lines,” says David Rolls, CEO.

Clopay Spurs Fall Sales With Promotion, Tax Credit

In August, Clopay announced a Fall Sales Spectacular event to jumpstart the fall sales season for its Master and Authorized dealers. Pat Lohse, vice president of residential marketing, says the fall event “plus the energy tax credit will be a great incentive for homeowners to buy before the end of the year.”

Clopay is offering a consumer rebate on top of an instant dealer discount on its single and double Premium Series, Gallery, Coachman Reserve, and Avante Collection doors, making it more affordable for homeowners to improve their home’s curb appeal with a stylish new garage door.

Also in August, Clopay announced all the model numbers of its insulated garage doors that qualify for the U.S. energy tax credit. The credit, which ends Dec. 31, 2007, is equal to the sum of 10 percent of all qualified energy saving improvements installed in an existing home. The maximum credit is $500.

Dealers should provide customers with a manufacturer’s certification statement for all qualified garage doors and a breakdown of the cost of material and labor. Certificates can be downloaded from www.clopaydealer.com under the Resources tab.

C.H.I. Receives ISO Accreditation

In August, C.H.I. Overhead Door announced that its research and development test lab had received ISO 17025:2005 accreditation.

“This was quite a process,” says Shawn Yurkovich, quality systems manager. “We have the distinction of receiving recognition after the initial audit. Typically, a business requires two or three post-audit reviews in order to qualify for accreditation.”

1st United Employees Join Race for the Cure

In October, 1st United Door Technologies employees will participate in the 15th Annual Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure. All funds raised by the team will be matched by the company.

The Komen Phoenix race raises funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer. Since 1993, the Phoenix affiliate has granted over $11 million to breast cancer treatment, education, prevention, and outreach programs in central and northern Arizona and to breast cancer research.

The Phoenix affiliate is one of 125 affiliates around the world. Since starting the breast cancer movement 25 years ago, Susan G. Komen for the Cure has invested nearly $1 billion in breast cancer research and community outreach programs.

Clopay Ranked Brand Leader in Survey

In July, Clopay announced that, for the second year in a row, Clopay ranks first among preferred brands in the garage door category, according to Remodeling Magazine’s building product brand-use survey.

A sample of the magazine’s subscribers were asked to determine which brands they have specified the most often during the past two years and are most likely to consider using. The complete results were published in the August issue.

Genie Wins Consumer “Best Buy” Award

In August, Overhead Door announced that the company’s Genie DirectLift Screw Drive residential garage door opener was chosen by Consumers Digest as a garage door opener “Best Buy” in the economy category.

Consumers Digest judged garage door openers on the basis of quietness, safety features, ease of installation, use, and quality. The Genie DirectLift Screw Drive was named the winner of the economy category because of its value and its instructions for homeowners who like to take on home improvement projects.

C.H.I. 5200 Makes Top 100

In June, C.H.I. Overhead Doors announced that its 5200 Series steel carriage house door had been named to Building Products magazine’s Top 100 Products list. The honor recognizes the 100 products that generated the most inquiries from builders and remodelers in 2006.

C.H.I.’s 5200 Series was chosen from thousands of editorial product mentions that ran in Hanley-Wood’s Builder, Remodeling, Custom Home, and Building Products magazines in 2006. The list is in its ninth year.

Martin Among Utah’s Most Admired Companies

Martin Door is one of Utah’s most admired companies, according to the June 2007 edition of “Utah Business.” The publication highlights 12 Utah-based companies that have operated for at least five years and done well in their particular field.

Martin Door was cited as the most admired manufacturer in the state. The article said Martin Door combined Japanese efficiency and American ingenuity to establish its current pattern of growth, which includes sales to 86 different countries or territories.

Also noted in the story is Martin’s engineering of “a number of safety factors such as the Finger Shield and safety hinges.”

Clopay Doors Featured on “Curb Appeal”

This summer, Clopay participated in five makeover projects in Minneapolis for HGTV’s “Curb Appeal” and a residential project to be featured on the nationally syndicated series “Hometime.”

“These television shows are a powerful marketing vehicle to help deliver our curb appeal message,” says Pat Lohse, vice president of residential marketing.

“Carriage house doors continue to be a staple selection for many of the projects, but this year we have received a record number of requests for our glass and aluminum Avante Collection as the designs trend toward exteriors with an organic Asian flair.”

Automatic Door Company managed the installation for all of the projects. The shows will air in 2008.

Garaga Holds Contest for Garage Door Safety Month

In June, in an effort to support Garage Door Safety Month, Garaga teamed up with the International Door Association (IDA) to hold a coloring contest for children 3 to 12 years of age. The contest also helped to disseminate safety messages for children, warning of possible hazards of garage doors and automatic openers.

Hundreds of colored drawings were submitted; the winners were selected in a random drawing. The winners were three girls—a 10-year-old from Quebec City, a 7-year-old from Hunter River, P.E.I, and an 8-year-old from West Farmington, Ohio. The prize was a bicycle valued at $250.

All Garaga dealers in Canada and the United States were encouraged to leave behind coloring pages with homeowners upon service calls or new installations. Local media also helped promote the contest.

Summit Uses PowerPoint to Promote Products

In July, Summit Door launched a video sales presentation showcasing their wood garage door products in an interactive format. The 10-minute PowerPoint presentation can be played in a showroom, on a personal computer, or on a laptop in the field.

“This new tool will benefit anyone involved in the various levels of design, specification, or purchase of a custom wood garage door,” says Dennis Self, national sales manager.

Chamberlain Earns High Ratings from Consumers Digest

In August, Chamberlain announced it had received three Consumers Digest “Best Buy” ratings for the LiftMaster 3220, LiftMaster 3595, and LiftMaster RJO3800 garage door openers.

Consumers Digest tested garage door openers in four categories: screw drive, chain drive, belt drive, and wall mounted. Openers were compared on quietness, safety features, ease of installation, and build quality. Chamberlain garage door openers took the top spot in three of the categories.

In the screw drive category, the 1/2-HP LiftMaster 3220 was awarded the premium selection “Best Buy.” Among chain drive openers, the 3/4-HP LiftMaster 3595 took the top spot in the category. The LiftMaster Residential Jackshaft Operator was rated the premium selection “Best Buy” in the wall-mounted garage door opener category.

For more than 45 years, Consumers Digest has identified outstanding performance and testing in a complex and crowded marketplace. Its “Best Buy” rating is awarded to fewer than three percent of the competing models in any given product category.

Top Clopay Dealers Honored at Conference

From April 29 to May 2, Clopay honored its top dealers for sales and service excellence during its annual Leadership Conference held at the Ritz Carlton in Jamaica.

The trip included business seminars such as “Selling Up,” “E-Commerce,” “Segmenting Your Business for Optimum Profitability,” and “Transitioning the Business to the Next Generation.”

Attendees spent their leisure time snorkeling, river rafting, sailing, and golfing at White Witch Golf Course, considered one of the finest golf courses in the Caribbean.

Clopay’s 2008 Leadership Conference will be held at the Ritz Carlton in Cancun from May 4 to 7. To qualify to attend, Master and Authorized Clopay dealers must achieve specific sales goals.

Door Systems Holds Third Annual Dealer Appreciation Day

In June, Door Systems of Framingham, Mass., held its third annual Dealer Appreciation Day. The event, held at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Conn., was attended by 320 dealers and 21 manufacturers that displayed products.

Lars Niit, president, announced new sales and marketing tools for dealers, such as co-op assistance with showroom doors, advertising, and Web page design. He also announced Door Systems’ new facility in Ashland, Mass., which will house slow-moving product, slightly scratched product, or previously installed sections that were temporarily installed.

Door Systems also held its annual competition to create a display out of garage door parts. This year’s first prize went to a Sherman tank made out of garage door hardware by Town and Country Door from Danbury, Conn.

C.H.I. Adds Second Wind Chamber

In August, C.H.I. Overhead Doors announced that it has added a second wind load test chamber, allowing two development teams to test doors simultaneously to meet a growing demand for tested doors.

“Doubling our capacity in the area of wind load testing ensures our customers the quickest entry into the market of our increasingly expanding product line,” says Chris Anzelmo, test lab engineer.

Clopay Dealer Showrooms Get Makeover

In July, Clopay announced that its Master and Authorized Dealer showrooms were undergoing an extreme makeover with new merchandising displays designed to help sell design.

“We have hung our hat on the appearance message and believe it’s critical for dealers to support that message consistently through all aspects of the sale,” says Pat Lohse, vice president of residential marketing. “We want customers to visit a showroom and be inspired in the same way they would be if they visited a kitchen and bath showroom.”

Clopay hired an outside retail merchandising firm to create various components for showrooms of different sizes and layouts.

INTERNET

Chamberlain Launches Enhanced Dealer Extranet

In August, Chamberlain announced its upgraded dealer extranet Web site, http://dealer.chamberlain.com. The site features a new style and offers more resources for Chamberlain dealers to expand business operations—from simplifying the ordering process to advertising assistance.

A simplified registration process enables dealers to sign up and navigate the new site within minutes. The extranet is password protected and allows dealers to stay constantly connected, place orders, view invoices and product information, and download manuals in PDF. Users can also configure commercial door operators, gate operators, and telephone entry systems to fit specific applications.

The new resource center features downloadable logos, high-resolution product images, TV and radio commercials, and advertising slicks. Return goods authorization and warranty claim forms can easily be submitted and tracked in real time.

Aleco Launches New Web Site

In July, Aleco announced the launch of its new Web site at www.aleco.com. Features include enhanced navigation, complete product descriptions, specification sheets, installation guides, and sell sheets.

The new site also includes a section on frequently asked questions to help the user choose the right door. For dealers, a resource center offers downloadable brochures and sample request forms. The news section contains recent press releases and a trade show calendar.

Aleco makes impact doors, PVC strip doors, pan rack covers, and air curtains.

INDUSTRY

Expo 2008 Keynoter Selected

Attendees at the 2008 International Garage Door Exposition in Las Vegas will hear T. Scott Gross, one of the nation’s most highly demanded business speakers.

His best-selling book, “Positively Outrageous Service: How to Delight and Astound Your Customers and Win Them for Life,” was adopted by Southwest Airlines as a training guide for crew members. The book became a motivating guide for many of the features by which the airline became known.

His background is in the restaurant industry, and the challenges associated with motivating and training employees are similar to those faced by door companies.

Gross’s presentations are known for laugh-out-loud stories from his experiences, but he says he is primarily concerned with delivering usable content to his audiences. His firsthand knowledge of the challenges confronting all business owners enables him to connect with attendees and deliver information that can be applied in the workplace.

Gross will address the Expo on Thursday, April 24, 2008, as the day’s educational keynote presenter. Expo 2008 runs from April 22 to 26.

Two Elected to IDEA Board

In June, DASMA appointed Dan Dombkowski of Chamberlain to serve as a DASMA representative on the board of directors of the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation (IDEA).

Dan Dombkowski is marketing manager for commercial door operators. He joined Chamberlain in 1985 and previously held the post of national sales manager for telephone entry and access control systems.

Earlier in 2007, Karen Cohen of Overhead Door replaced Robert Deisher on the IDEA board. Cohen joined Overhead Door in 2006 as product manager for commercial doors and operators. She previously managed key products lines for a variety of consumer product companies.

Cohen and Dombkowski join four other DASMA representatives on the IDEA board: Steve Guyton of Cookson, Inez Van Meter of Murphy Industries, Mark Daus of Wayne-Dalton, and Bearge Miller of Miller Edge. The IDEA board includes six representatives from IDA.

DASMA Adds New Members

This summer, the Door & Access Systems Manufacturers’ Association (DASMA) welcomed four new member companies.

The new members of the High Performance Door Division are Goff’s Enterprises, Nergeco USA, and Teledoor. DL Manufacturing is a new member of the Commercial & Residential Garage Door Division.

The High Performance Door Division began in 2004 with seven members. It now has 11. Overall, the association now includes 119 different companies in its five divisions.

Goff’s Enterprises, based in Pewaukee, Wis., is a manufacturer of vinyl powered high-speed rolling doors (www.goffscurtainwalls.com). Nergeco USA makes high-performance doors and is based in West Chester, Ohio (www.nergecousa.com). Teledoor, a manufacturer of high-cycle vertically telescoping steel doors, is based in Lima, Ohio (www.teledoorllc.com).

DL Manufacturing of North Syracuse, N.Y., is a manufacturer of dock doors, dock fans, and safety devices for docks (www.DLManufacturing.com).

Dealer Fishing Prize Nets Industry Contribution

IDEA director Dewey Stewart has gone fishing, and he’s taking the door industry with him. Earlier this year, Stewart (Midwest Garage Door, Pawnee, Ill.) joined the Professional Musky Tournament Trail, fulfilling a lifelong ambition to become a top-level angler.

When he arrived for his first tournament at Fox Chain O’ Lakes, Ill., his boat and hauler sported some logos unfamiliar to his competitors. While other anglers were sponsored by fishing equipment manufacturers, Stewart’s team was sponsored by Chamberlain and Miller Edge.

Dewey and his partner, Forest Kay, finished in sixth place and captured even more attention for their sponsors. The prize money went to support Stewart’s personal causes: IDEA, the IDA Scholarship Foundation, and the SimmonsCooper Cancer Institute at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine.

Stewart has since gone on to qualify for the Ranger Boats World Championship tournament in Kentucky in October. The event could bring television exposure and media coverage to outdoors enthusiasts throughout North America.

Biometrics: Fastest-Growing Segment in Access Control Market

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan reveals that revenues in the North American electronic access control (EAC) markets totaled $1.32 billion in 2006 and are expected to reach $4.19 billion in 2010. Driving the growth are increased security concerns, increased competition, and reduced prices.

“Biometrics, in particular, is emerging as the fastest growing segment of the North American EAC market, benefiting tremendously from legislations such as the Aviation and Transport Security Act,” says Frost & Sullivan’s Janani Sankaran, a research analyst.

In recent months, the biometrics industry has achieved a number of compliance milestones. For instance, INCITS and ANSI have approved the BioAPI standard, and INCITS 358-2002 Information Technology-BioAPI Specification and the Common Biometric Exchange File Format (CBEFF) have been augmented for international harmonization.

TECHNICAL

DASMA Schedules Seventh Annual Technical Forum

DASMA’s seventh annual fall technical forum will take place Oct. 17 in Kansas City. The forum, held in conjunction with the Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee and High Performance Door Division meetings, is intended for engineers from DASMA’s garage door manufacturer members.

Featured speakers include the following:

John “Bud” Plisich of the FEMA Mitigation Assessment Team will present findings in recent high-wind events and discuss ways to convert these findings into door performance improvements.

Tim Reinhold of the Institute for Business & Home Safety will reveal various IBHS-supported wind-resistant product programs, including “Fortified … For Safer Living,” “Code-Plus,” and other programs in Florida and beyond.

Pat Coughlin of the International Code Council staff will discuss recent state and local adoption activity of the 2006 International Building Code and the 2006 International Residential Code.

An ASCE 7 Wind Load representative will provide updates on recent activities involving DASMA submittals about wind load calculations and analysis.

DASMA Technical Director Joe Hetzel will give a DASMA thermal performance strategy update.

DASMA Legal Counsel Naomi Angel will present a briefing on engineering ethics.

Speakers and topics are subject to change but will keep within the theme of technical education and future technical activities.

“Inherent Secondary Entrapment Protection” Studied

DASMA has formed a committee to study technology found in inherent secondary entrapment protection systems for garage door and opener systems. The committee includes technical representatives from garage door and opener manufacturers.

The committee, formed in June, is now working to identify and evaluate the relevant provisions of the ANSI/UL 325 Standard for Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems. Any recommendations that are developed will be proposed to the UL 325 Standards Technical Panel for consideration.

All garage door and opener combinations are required to have a primary inherent means of entrapment protection as well as a secondary means of entrapment protection. Most garage door and opener combinations provide external secondary entrapment protection devices such as photoelectric eyes or sensing edges.

Alternately, some garage door and opener combinations use an inherent secondary entrapment protection system in place of external devices to provide a secondary means of entrapment protection.

DASMA to Address Wind Issues in the Midwest

The ever-spreading adoption and enforcement of the 2006 International Residential Code in the Midwest has resulted in additional requests for DASMA to present garage door wind load information. Presentations to code officials in Kansas City, Mo., and door dealers in Champaign, Ill., are planned for this fall.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says the presentations were spurred by the new code reference to ANSI/DASMA 108 for garage door wind load testing and enforcement.

Hetzel presented a seminar to Wichita area code officials and builders earlier in 2007. “Our industry’s efforts to know and apply the codes and to develop industry standards are paying off,” says Hetzel.

Changes to Fire Code Proposed

For the first time, DASMA has proposed changes to the International Fire Code. The three proposals address provisions relating to automated vehicular gates used on fire apparatus access roads.

The proposals seek to reference UL 325 as the standard for gate operators and ASTM F2200 for gates intended for automation. DASMA previously attempted to incorporate these provisions into the International Building Code.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says that some fire code officials support DASMA’s proposals. He adds, “We have historically promoted a balance of safety with security and emergency operation for automated vehicular gates.”

The proposals will be considered at International Code Council (ICC) hearings in early 2008.