© 2004 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Winter 2004
Author: Tom Wadsworth
Pages 4-34

NEWSLINES

PRODUCT

Jeld-Wen Offers “Old World Doors”

In September, Jeld-Wen announced its Estate Series composite garage doors with the “Old World” look.

Jeld-Wen says the “current craze that reflects a bygone era” possibly comes from the book and movie, “Under the Tuscan Sun,” or America’s growing attraction to European home and fashion design.

The Estate Series garage doors contain grooves in the molded polymer skin that replicate the multi-plank doors of Mediterranean and turn-of-the-century designs. Builders can select from door knockers, straps, and handles to customize the doors.

These composite doors are made from the same material throughout, from the trim to the face of the door. The doors feature “no joints,” with “no cracking, sagging, separating. or shrinking, even in extreme temperatures.”

Jeld-Wen, called “the world’s largest manufacturer of windows and doors,” offers a full line of Old World entry doors to complement its garage doors. www.jeld-wen.com

Windsor Republic Introduces New Carriage-Style Door

In November, Windsor Republic announced its newest residential product, the Model 770 steel-backed insulated carriage-style garage door.

The Model 770 features a deep embossed woodgrain texture, a choice of three colors in the composite boards, 1-3/8"-thick steel section construction. and a variety of decorative window inserts and hardware.

The composite boards come in white, almond, or sandstone and are applied to a flush steel-backed insulated door. The three colors for the composite boards allow homeowners to customize the look. www.windsordoor.com

Ideal Door Adds Steel Carriage-House Doors

In August, Ideal Door announced the Affinity Series, a new line of steel carriage-house garage doors available in 48 distinct looks.

Affinity Series doors have three layers of steel and insulation topped with a 5/8" coped woodgrain-finished PVC overlay. The 1-3/8" polystyrene insulation with thermal break is standard. Mounting hardware includes 14-gauge steel hinges, galvanized torsion springs, and nylon rollers.

Two series of doors are available. Series One complements mission, Shaker, and prairie-style homes. Series Two is a traditional carriage-house style with full- or half-cross buck panels.

Homeowners can choose from square, arched, or rectangular windows or opt for a solid top section in a square or arched panel design. Antique hardware options include black iron spade lift handles, step plates, strap hinges, doorknockers, and studs. www.idealdoors.com

Raynor Announces Steele Falls Doors

In November, Raynor announced the Steele Falls Collection of residential steel carriage-house doors, an affordable alternative to custom wood doors.

Creekeside, the first model in the collection, features 2"-thick finger-protected sections, optional polystyrene insulation, five color options, three designer windows, decorative face hardware, and Premium and Deluxe interior hardware packages. Raynor warrants the sections against rust for “As Long As You Own Your Home.”

Creekeside doors also use multiple panel embossment sizes to achieve a consistent appearance in all door widths. www.raynor.com

Clopay and 3M Offer Beveled Glass Alternative

Clopay is partnering with 3M to introduce the Brilliance Series, a new garage door window design that offers the look of beveled glass at a more affordable price. Announced in October, Clopay is the first garage door manufacturer to offer this option.

The window uses 3M’s patented Accentrim technology to optically enhance the window surface. When light filters through, it casts a rainbow of colors to create the illusion and depth of cut glass.

“The Brilliance Series windows are going to be a nice draw to help differentiate our dealers from competitors,” says Pat Lohse, director of residential marketing.

The new windows avoid drawbacks of existing options. Accentrim can be applied to any thickness of glass, with shorter lead times and less weight in the garage door window section.

Clopay will initially offer three Brilliance Series design patterns in long and short panel styles with either insulated or non-insulated glass: Solitaire, Marquise, and Trillian. www.clopaydoor.com

Clopay Introduces Dock Equipment

In November, Clopay announced Clopay-brand dock seals, shelters, and bumpers to provide its commercial customers with a single-source solution for loading door equipment needs.

The seals can be designed for straight-in, inclined, or declined dock conditions, and are available in a variety of pad configurations. The model DS100 has a stationary head seal, the model DS140 has an adjustable head seal, and the model DS200 features adjustable top and side curtains.

The dock seals and shelters are available in 22 oz. or 40 oz. black fabric. Other color options include blue, beige, tan, and green. Laminated and formed rubber dock bumpers are also available to provide added protection for the dock area and equipment. www.clopaydoor.com

Marantec Adds Battery Backup System

In January, Marantec America will launch the Energie-Pac battery backup system, pending UL approval.

The backup system is designed to work with all Marantec DC garage door openers. The opener plugs into the Energie-Pac, which plugs into an outlet. In a power outage, the garage door system provides illumination and will operate for 20 complete cycles. www.marantecamerica.com

Hörmann Adds Double-Torsion Spring System

In September, Hörmann added a double-torsion spring system to its line of residential garage doors.

“With this improvement, the doors are extremely well-balanced,” explains Norbert Fritz, president. “They run smoothly, and they experience less wear and tear.”

Hörmann currently employs approximately 4,500 people worldwide and generates approximately $1 billion in sales annually. The company opened its first U.S. production facility in 2002 in east Tennessee. From there, Hörmann can provide next-day delivery service to its network of dealers in the Eastern U.S. www.hoermann.com

Windsor Adds New Rolling Door

In November, Windsor Republic added the Model 6500 rolling door, calling it “one of the most versatile doors in the industry.”

The Model 6500 is “comparable in price to sectional doors” and engineered for moderate use. Equipped with standard features, the Model 6500 meets or exceeds moderate use commercial-duty door applications.

The door features 24-gauge bone-white slats in either flat or curved configuration and is available in sizes up to 16' wide and 16' high. www.windsordoor.com

Napoleon/Lynx Introduces Track Guard

In October, Napoleon/Lynx announced Track Guard, a track product that reduces the chance of injury by limiting access between the jamb and track.

Thus, fingers, broom handles, children’s toys, etc., are discouraged from entering the cavity. With its hollowed back design, Track Guard also protects the photoelectric-eye wiring from being pinched or cut.

Made from a nylon composite, Track Guard is light, attractive, durable, and takes only minutes to install on new or pre-existing garage doors. www.lynx-nsw.com

GADCO Announces HDPE Carriage-House Door

In October, GADCO launched its Country Freedom Series 9004 garage door in a carriage-house style. Its high density polyethylene (HDPE) material will not warp, rot, delaminate, rust, dent, and never needs painting.

Insulated with a vinyl-back CFC-free polystyrene core, Country Freedom is constructed with a rigid aluminum framework. Its “premium heavy-duty hardware” includes 10-ball nylon rollers. Window options include four snap-in insert designs and six windows in acrylic or feather-etched leaded glass. www.gadco.com

Warner Unveils New E-Series

In September, Warner Industries said it is adding the TransformaDoor E-Series to its line of garage door siding. The E-series offers flexibility to a broader spectrum of home styles.

E-series offers a combination of stainable or paintable slats that mount to any flush panel garage door surface. The E-Series is priced to offer the track home builder a competitive alternative.

As with TransformaDoor panels, the E-series slats are lightweight, weather resistant, and can be installed quickly. www.warnerindustries.net

Chamberlain Adds High-End Telephone Entry System

In November, Chamberlain Professional Products announced the Elite model EL25 with “the most adaptable, configurable, and flexible options available for the telephone entry and access control system market.”

The Elite EL25 is designed for single-family residential, multi-tenant apartment buildings, gated communities, and light-duty commercial sites. The system offers 25 directory codes, 250 three- to nine-digit access codes, and can record up to 1,000 transactions.

Additional features include a built-in non-volatile memory that will retain database information if power is lost. The system is designed with an auto-sensor input feature to automate lights, CCTV, strikes, and alarm shunts when triggered. Its exclusive Do Not Disturb and Call Forwarding features can be enabled on a per tenant basis.

The EL25 is built for simple installation and field maintenance. Its unique cast zinc alloy housing with a powder coat finish withstands harsh weather conditions and corrosion and is available in silver, gray, and nickel. www.chamberlain.com

First United Names “Steelhouse” Door

In November, First United Door Technologies announced the Steelhouse door, the new name of its all-steel carriage-house garage door.

First United introduced the first steel carriage-house garage door in January 2001 and an all-steel carriage-house door in July 2004. The doors feature new 28" panels (patent pending) to create a three-section door instead of the traditional four.

The company says, “The least expensive, most visible detail a builder can add to a new home is an all-steel carriage-house garage door.” www.firstudt.com

Clopay Unveils Commercial Line Enhancements

In October, Clopay announced the new Model 902 deluxe aluminum full-view door, a full-vision section for the Model 3150 and Model 3652 doors, the Model 950 aluminum-framed insulated polycarbonate door, and a new bottom break-away section.

The Model 902’s aluminum and glass construction provides full view for exterior façades and partitioned interiors. Modifying the Model 901, the Model 902 door offers capped tongue and groove meeting rails. Standard color options now include commercial brown, clear anodized, and white. Powder-coated colors are available as an upgrade.

A full-vision aluminum section is now available for the 1-3/8" Model 3150 and the 1-1/2" Model 3652. The section offers a low-cost solution for applications requiring an insulated door with maximum visual access. Several glazing options are available.

The new Model 950 aluminum-framed insulated polycarbonate panel door is designed for use in car washes, high-humidity buildings, and chemical facilities. It features translucent insulated polycarbonate panels, a thermally broken aluminum alloy frame, 3" powder coated track and hardware, heavy-duty nylon rollers, and a continuous center hinge with a urethane bushing.

A new break-away bottom section matches the exterior appearance of its commercial doors. The company says it is the first manufacturer to offer a matching section as an option on all of its doors. The section can be reset in a matter of seconds, eliminating downtime and service calls. www.clopaydoor.com

Flexon Creates Low-Cost High-Speed Roll-Up Door

In November, Flexon introduced the Speed-Master 750 high-speed roll-up door.

The door is designed for interior doorways where environmental separation is desired. Flexon’s Speed-Master features have been incorporated into the new 750:
· Direct-drive motor/gearbox, rated at 360 operations/hour with a 5-year unlimited cycle warranty.
· NEMA-4 control box enclosure with a solid-state LED self-diagnostic, expandable PLC.
· Low-profile heavy-duty steel side tracks and springless design. www.flexoninc.com

C.H.I. Adds Color-Matched Handles

In October, C.H.I. introduced a new gripping point that is now available on their residential doors. The new handles matched C.H.I.’s door colors of white, almond, sandstone, brown, bronze, green, and silver.

Phil Schrock, customer service, says C.H.I. distributors were eager to see the new handle and are encouraging homeowners to use handles on doors. www.chiohd.com

Napoleon/Lynx Introduces New Remote Control

In October, Napoleon/Lynx introduced a new receiver and remote control for high-traffic commercial applications. The unit is designed for climate-controlled buildings with large doors where the door’s full height of travel is not always required.

The remote control has three buttons for open, close, and stop. Up to 20 different remotes can be programmed to work a single receiver. The unit can be wired to any brand of commercial operator and works with either AC or 24-volt DC power. www.lynx-nsw.com

New Lock From Amarr

In September, Amarr Garage Doors added a new lock with several features.

The lock is easy to install and features a black powder-coated finish, a keyed cylinder shutter to keep moisture out, and is available with 200 key combinations.

A push-button release on the interior gives the homeowner a quicker way to unlock the door. The same locking mechanism can be used for either a lock bar or snap latch application.

The lock can be used on any of Amarr’s residential steel models. A similar system, the Alpine Lock, is available for the Classica Collection. www.amarr.com

Chamberlain Adds Sentex Telephone Entry System

In September, Chamberlain transformed the Sentex Telephone Entry Systems product line into an easy-to-order group of full-featured products.

“By making our previous product options now standard, we have simplified the order process and made inventory control more manageable,” says Randall Planck, marketing manager.

For the first time ever, Chamberlain is also offering an Elite and Sentex Telephone Entry System Product Selector Guide to its network of dealers. This interactive tool helps dealers determine the correct telephone entry system and options for each project. www.chamberlain.com

New Insulated Door From C.H.I.

In June 2004, C.H.I. Overhead Doors began production on the 2216, an insulated steel sandwich door with an advanced thermal break design.

Along with a foamed-in-place urethane core, this residential garage door features a section joint seal to achieve an air-resistant barrier. The door is available in white, almond, and sandstone and multiple window options.

The 2216 is a short panel design, while the 4216 has long panels, and the 2217 is flush. www.chiohd.com

“Intelligent” Door Control System Announced

In August, Click2Enter and Advanced Systems launched a new intelligent commercial roll-up door control system that constantly monitors the door opening area. The new system integrates the Click2Enter-I door activation device with the Advanced Systems door control system.

Designed for firehouse doors, the new system seeks to prevent a roll-up door from accidentally closing on a moving fire engine. In addition, by monitoring the garage bay during closure, the system helps to prevent potential thefts from unauthorized access to the firehouse before the doors completely close.

The system also monitors all safety and control sensors. If a sensor is disabled, the system immediately signals a warning and pinpoints the problem area. The company says, “This new capability virtually guarantees complete safety in roll-up door operations.”

Each installation can be customized to match the cost and operational requirements of the user. Also, the Click2Enter-I can be programmed to allow mutual aid agencies access to the fire house doors via their own radio system. www.click2enter.net

Linear AM-3 Controls Four Doors/Gates

In November, Linear Access announced the AM-3, a multi-portal access controller for up to four doors or gates.

AM-3 features four built-in general-purpose relays, each of which can be configured for open/close functions. Any relay can serve as the control relay, while the others can be used for other functions, including activation of safety edge reverse, external lighting, and/or alarm shunting.

Linear says the AM-3’s built-in data communications and networking capabilities make the unit valuable. Using Linear’s AccessBase 2000 software, you can network up to eight controllers via an RS-485 connection and/or eight different dial-up locations via modem for a total of 256 doors or gates. www.linearcorp.com

US Door Adds Wind-Load Door

In October, US Door & Building Components introduced the Model 652, a wind-load-certified roll-up door.

The 652 features the same strength and design as the Model 651 but uses a wind-lock made of ultra-high molecular nylon for smooth and quiet operation. The company says the door allows easy and fast installation, smooth operation, and higher productivity.

With the new wind-lock design, the Model 652 has been tested to meet up to 140 mph winds or 30 psf of pressure on doors up to 12' x 16'. Additional wind-load certifications are available on sizes up to 20' wide and 16' high. www.usdoor.com

Trac-Rite Adds Shale

In September, Trac-Rite added shale, a medium matte taupe with soft brown undertones, to all Trac-Rite roll-up doors.

The new color comes “in response to many customer requests for an earth-tone shade,” says Mark Hensel, sales manager.

Trac-Rite doors are now available in 11 prefinished colors. The paint finish is multi-coated for long life and comes with a 30-year paint warranty, which includes chalking, fading, and rusting. www.tracrite.com

Napoleon/Lynx Offers Safer Spring

In October, Napoleon/Lynx announced “a new safer leaf bumper spring.”

A “safety cable” has been added to leaf bumper springs and works just like the “safety cable” installed in an extension spring. It restrains the spring in the unlikely event of breakage. www.lynx-nsw.com

New Screen Door From TKO

The new Flyweight screen door from TKO Doors, announced in October, is an affordable bug-resistant door. Designed for packaging, food distribution, and printing environments, the door also lets in fresh air and light.

The door is held in place by an extruded aluminum guide track and rolls up and out of the way. Adaptable track is available with inside-the-door mounting, in-jamb mounting, or exterior-wall face mounting.

The door has four power options: an In-Tube Motor, External Continuous-Duty Motor with an emergency chain hoist, a Spring Tube Model, and a Chain Hoist Model.

FlyWeight doors have horizontal stiffeners for stability in windy conditions. Horizontal safety stripes allow workers to see if the screen is down. Screens are available in several colors, and replacement screens are easy to install. www.tkodoors.com

Linear/OSCO Introduces 1-HP Operator

In November, Linear/OSCO launched the SLC-1, a new 1-HP continuous-duty commercial slide gate operator.

Features include a large size 60 (20:1) gear box, a hinged control box for easy access, a quick-disconnect assembly, a separate rotary limit box, and a sturdy open base.

Its continuous-duty PSC motor uses a heavy-duty #40 drive chain. The operator can be used with gates of up to 45' and 2,000 lbs. Gate speed is 11" per second.

The SLC-1’s polyethylene cover comes in three colors: beige, black, and granite. The operator is ETL labeled and UL 325 compliant. www.operatorspecialty.com

Allstar Unveils Transmitter for 240 Doors

In September, Allstar announced a new, three-channel wireless commercial radio transmitter capable of operating up to 240 doors. An industry first, the transmitter can open multiple doors with a keypad.

The unit can be hand-held, wall-mounted, or mounted on a forklift truck. A user enters a 3-digit door code and then presses Open, Close, or Stop. The transmitter is based on Allstar’s MVP Radio Platform and is compatible with MVP-RE three-channel commercial receivers. www.allstarcorp.com

Manaras Announces the Opera-SH

In November, Manaras launched the Opera-SH, a high-end heavy-duty V-belt drive operator. It replaces the Manaras MSJ. Designed for industrial sectional and rolling doors, the unit can handle more than 80 cycles/day and 25 cycles/hour.

The model includes a hinged cover with stable opened position, Accu-cam one-hand limit setting, an installer friendly control box, a solenoid brake, and cast-iron pillow block bearings on the input and output shafts.

The unit is available with the Electronic Control Board with 5V logic or a 24V control circuit with heavy-duty reversing contactor. www.manaras.com

New Gate Receivers From Linear

In November, Linear introduced two Delta 3 gate receivers: the GRD and the GRD-2.

With these two 12-24 volt AC or DC auto-sensing receivers, gate installers can always have the correct voltage receiver on the truck. There are no jumpers to set, and there is no possibility that the installer can damage the gate operator or the receiver by running either unit off the wrong voltage.

The GRD has a single relay and replaces the Linear DRG and the DRG-LV. The GRD-2 includes two relays and replaces Linear models DRG-2 and DRG-2-LV. www.linearcorp.com

Gateway Adds Screen to PVC Strip Doors

In November, Gateway Industrial Products added screen to its PVC strip doors, allowing ventilation yet keeping insects out. The doors are ideal for pedestrian and cart traffic.

Gateway makes any size PVC strip doors for many applications. The PVC material, USDA grade, is offered in several varieties. www.gatewayindustrial.com

Chamberlain Announces Operator Upgrades

In November, Chamberlain enacted upgrades to all J and H commercial door operators. The new features simplify engaging the emergency chain hoist and manual disconnect and provide quieter operation.

J commercial door operators now include a new drive system with a spline sprocket and a Delrin hub in place of a traditional sprocket.

H commercial door operators feature a new electric hoist interlock. The upgraded H-interlock integrates into the manual chain hoist to provide stronger, smoother engagement of the chain hoist for manual door operation. www.chamberlain.com

BEA Introduces Presence Detector

In November, BEA announced its new Iris presence detection sensor. The header-mounted sensor generates two rows of 24 precise beams to detect objects in the door’s path throughout the door’s opening and closing cycles. With a mounting height of up to 13', the Iris is suitable for most small industrial doors.

The sensor’s infinite learn-time feature eliminates the need for the sensor to continually re-learn its environment. Thus, common objects abandoned inside the area of detection, such as forklifts or pallets, will not inhibit sensor function.

All Iris features are programmable by the BEA universal remote control, eliminating the need for ladders. The Iris can also be used in other applications such as overhead safety in the threshold area for sliding doors and sidelite protection on sliding doors. www.beainc.com

Allstar Launches “Fail Secure” Lock Option

In September, Allstar introduced a new “Fail Secure” lock option for its Leader Plus Sliding Gate Operator. The option keeps the gate locked when power is lost.

The system’s lock is solenoid-actuated and disengaged during operation. When the operator stops, the solenoid is de-energized, and the lock pin engages to prevent further movement. A manual release is provided for authorized access.

The Leader Plus Gate Operator is also available with standard “drop-out” locking that disengages the lock when power is lost. www.allstarcorp.com

Manaras Opera Models Now UL Listed

In November, Manaras announced that several of its Opera operators are now UL listed and CSA certified.

Recently receiving the UL listing are medium-duty models Opera-MH and Opera-MJ and heavy-duty models Opera-H, Opera-J, and Opera-HJ. www.manaras.com

Linear Access Adds High-End Model

In November, Linear Access added the AE-2000, a full-featured, multi-tenant, multi-portal executive access system. The unit controls up to four portals and handles up to 10,000 users.

The AE-2000 is suited for apartments, condominiums, residential communities, and commercial complexes requiring access control of up to four portals in any combination of gates and/or doors. Access can be granted/denied based on 32 programmable criteria, including security levels, time and date, door schedules, and floor schedules.

The AE-2000 is network ready and is available with a wide range of add-ons. Its brushed stainless steel front features a back-lighted, LCD panel that displays 24 names at a time. Voice prompts are offered in English and Spanish. www.linearcorp.com

PEOPLE

Martin Dealer Sets World Speed Record

In August, Mike Reyman, owner of Thompson Garage Doors, set a world speed record during runs at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Reyman is a dealer for Martin Garage Doors.

In two days of runs on the salt raceway, Reyman drove his Ford Flathead Blown Street Roadster an average speed of 160.771 mph, shattering a world record for that category of car by almost 15 mph. The record came in Reyman’s sixth year of Salt Flats attempts.

In October, Reyman was asked to bring his roadster back to Bonneville Speedway for the backdrop of the filming of “The World’s Fastest Indian.” The movie focuses on Burt Munro (played by Anthony Hopkins), who designed the world’s fastest motorcycle and raced it at the Salt Flats in 1962.

First United Restructures Sales Team

In September, First United Door Technologies announced a restructured sales and distribution team.

Jay Clem (center) serves as First United Door’s national sales manager. Retired from the U.S. Air Force, Clem has been working in the garage door industry for more than 10 years, managing garage door distribution and installation companies.

His team includes Bill Simcox, Southern California district sales manager (left), and Jack Huard, Southern California facilities manager (right).

Rytec Promotes Torrey to VP

In October, Rytec announced the promotion of Lyle (Bo) Torrey to vice president of sales.

Torrey brings much experience in material handling and has been associated with Rytec since 1992 in various sales positions. A graduate of Princeton University, Torrey is “a well-disciplined, experienced sales executive, (who) is thoroughly equipped to direct the sales arm of this dynamically growing company.”

Rytec Corporation is a manufacturer of high-speed, high performance doors.

Raynor Adds Financial Services Manager

In November, Raynor announced that Ann Conway is its new financial services manager.

With 24 years of experience in manufacturing, Conway previously worked for Lawrence Hardware in accounting, accounts receivable, and most recently as vice president of finance. She holds a B.S. in economics from the University of Illinois and a MBA from St. Ambrose University.

Fraba Hires General Engineer

In June 2004, Eric Lavin joined Fraba as a general engineer.

Lavin brings over six years of product design, project management, and general business skills to Fraba. He graduated from Rutgers with a B.S. in electrical engineering.

He is responsible for the expansion of Fraba’s Vitector division, which focuses on sensing edges for the door industry. Lavin is also responsible for developing and introducing of one of Vitector’s newest products, Flashentry.

Mapes Named President of A.O. Smith

In September, A.O. Smith Corporation announced that Christopher L. Mapes has been named president of its Electrical Products Company in Tipp City, Ohio.

As president, Mapes will assume full profit and loss responsibility for Electrical Products, A.O. Smith’s largest operating unit with 2003 sales of $824.6 million. The unit manufactures fractional horsepower, hermetic, and integral horsepower electric motors in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Mapes joins A.O. Smith from Regal-Beloit Corporation, Beloit, Wis., where he was president of motor sales and marketing. Mapes holds a B.S. from Ball State University, a law degree from the University of Toledo, and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management.

COMPANIES

Ankmar Expands to Make Room for New Products

In November, Ankmar Door announced a 108,000-sq.-ft. expansion to its Kansas City, Kan., plant. The new addition makes space for new products and streamlines current operations.

The new products, debuting in early 2005, include the new Wilmington Collection of 2"-thick steel carriage-house doors, the new Premier Plus line of 2"-thick insulated sandwich doors, and a new commercial, foamed-in-place steel door.

The expansion will also allow Ankmar to add production of the Manor House Collection of carriage-house doors.

Ankmar says its goal is “to offer the widest range of products available in the industry.” Construction completion is estimated for the second quarter of 2005.

Marantec Opens New Warehouses

In 2004, Marantec America celebrated the opening of two new warehouses, in Florida and California, marking its growth throughout the U.S. and Central America.

The new warehouse in Ontario, Calif., enhances Marantec’s distribution to the West Coast, Southwest, and Pacific Mountain regions. A new distribution warehouse in Miami, Fla., will serve Mexico, Central and Latin America, and South America.

“The opening of these new distribution warehouses signals a new beginning for Marantec America,” says George Annino, director of marketing. He says Marantec “is one of the fastest growing garage door opener manufacturers in the business today.”

Fraba Relocates

On Oct. 1, 2004, Fraba completed the relocation of its U.S. headquarters from Lawrenceville, N.J., to Princeton Junction, N.J.

The company says it needed a larger facility because of continued success since coming to the U.S. four years ago. Fraba, Inc., is a subsidiary of Fraba AG, a German company.

Amarr Takes Dealers on Winery Tour

Amarr’s VIP 2004 Adventure treated dealers and their guests to an all-expense-paid trip to San Francisco and wineries in Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley.

On one of the nights of the trip, dealers had a choice between three gourmet restaurants. Tours of Alcatraz Island, Sausalito, and shopping were also offered.

The VIP 2005 Adventure will include an all-expense-paid trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Amarr Honors Top Dealers

During Amarr’s VIP 2004 Adventure, the company honored Jaydor of Philadelphia as the Amarr Dealer of the Year.

In an awards ceremony that concluded the 2004 Adventure, Jaydor also received the Commercial Sales Award. Tenzamatic, an Amarr dealer in Spain, was named International Dealer of the Year.

Other award winners included Allied Doors of Jupiter, Fla., (Custom Carriage House and Heritage Sales Awards, Marketing Award, Community Leadership Award), Today’s Hearth and Home of Culpepper, Va., (Stratford and Operator Sales Awards), and Miller’s Overhead Door of Chesapeake, Va. (Exceptional Performance, Crown Award for being a VIP for five straight years).

Clopay Carriage-House Doors Going to Super Bowl

Clopay Coachman Collection of steel carriage-house doors will be featured on the 2005 Home of Legends in Jacksonville, Fla., debuting at Super Bowl XXXIX Weekend, Feb. 4-6, 2005.

The home is sponsored by Home magazine and the NFL Alumni. The magazine is joining forces with builder Arthur Rutenberg Homes to build the 4,800-sq.-ft. Mediterranean-style home.

As a sponsor, Clopay will receive product exposure and editorial coverage in a special Home of Legends feature in the June issue of Home magazine. JB Mathews Company is installing the door.

Wayne-Dalton Sponsors Radio Football

Wayne-Dalton is continuing its sponsorship of the Westwood One/CBS Radio Sports NCAA and NFL football seasons. At least 120 radio spots will air during NCAA college football and championship bowl games, as well as the NFL playoffs, Super Bowl, and Pro Bowl.

The Wayne-Dalton/NCAA games will air on 364 affiliate stations, reaching more than 60 million listeners. The NFL post-season sponsorship will air on 512 affiliate stations with more than 45 million listeners.

The radio ads will focus on the breadth of garage door design options that are available from Wayne-Dalton. A complete listing of sponsored games and the radio ad are posted at www.wayne-dalton.com.

Raynor Wins Best New Product Award

In late 2004, Raynor’s American Rivers Collection of custom wood doors was selected as the winner in the garage door category of Home Remodeling magazine’s Best New Products Awards.

The American Rivers Collection is a series of custom-made wood carriage-house doors. The Collection includes four brands with 18 standard sizes, eight decorative design options, and eight window options.

The awards were chosen by industry judges, including Woman’s Day Specials Senior Editor Barbara Winfield and ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition’s Paige Hemmis. Products were chosen based upon quality of design, aesthetics, and technical innovation and will be featured in the magazine’s February issue.

Allstar Forms Alliance With John Greene

In October, Allstar and John Greene Corporation jointly announced the founding of the Access Alliance, a joint sales, marketing, and distribution effort. The goal is to provide improved customer service and improved access to both companies’ product lines.

Allstar makes residential garage door operators, gate operators, and radio controls. John Greene, a subsidiary of V E Power Door, makes commercial overhead door operators and gate operators. The companies’ product lines will continue to be sold under the Allstar, MVP, Challenger, and PowerMaster brand names.

“The Access Alliance now provides six distribution centers nationwide, greatly improving product availability and expediting delivery times,” says Phil Lanzarone, John Greene president.

Bob Holland, president and CEO of Allstar, sees a long-term, strategic role for the Access Alliance. “For now, it’s an effort by our two companies,” he says. “But there could certainly be room for other firms with complementary product lines.”

Changes Give New Life to Fimbel Door

Many changes have been made at Fimbel Door Company since it was acquired by Amarr Garage Doors in November 2003.

Improvements have been made to the office and manufacturing areas. By relocating staff workspaces, Fimbel has enhanced the flow of information from the time an order is placed until it ships. Residential and commercial door production lines were also moved to increase productivity.

“Our employees are excited about all of these changes because it gives us the ability to provide better products and better service,” says Hank Craig, general manager.

New Addition Completed at C.H.I.

In June 2004, C.H.I. began production in a new 88,200-sq.-ft. annex at the Arthur, Ill., production facility.

The new insulated models 2216 and 5216 are two of the products that are being produced in the new facility.

Raynor Launches New Architect CD

In November, Raynor introduced a new Architect CD to improve marketing efforts to architects. The CD replaces the previous Architect Manual.

The new Architect CD provides product information, product matrices, attribute charts, application guides, and links to updated product details and specifications at www.raynor.com.

GarageGrids Announces Dealer Locator, Changes

In November, GarageGrids announced an overhauled Web site and several marketing changes.

“By having our own dealer locator and network, GarageGrids is able to help homeowners who need someone to go to their home to sell or install our product,” says Chris Samuels, chairman.

Samuels also announced that the average selling price for GarageGrids now exceeds $1,500, including installation. New accessories, such as smaller baskets and bat holders, are now available. GarageGrids has created a 5-minute video on CD for dealer use in upcoming home shows.

Noting GarageGrids’ early entry into this market, Jeff Kahn, CEO, says, “Being early to any market has its drawbacks, but it gave us time to really understand the business.”

Hörmann Sponsors “Frauleins” Race Team

In the summer of 2004, Hörmann sponsored a team of four women cyclists from Germany and Austria in the annual Race Across America. Teams and individuals competed to cross the U.S. from the West Coast to the East Coast in the shortest possible time.

Calling their team “Frauleins,” the Hörmann team set out to reach the finish line within nine days. Hörmann sponsorship allowed the amateur team to compete with optimal equipment.

“Taking on new challenges and tackling them as part of a team fits perfectly with our corporate philosophy,” explains Christoph Hörmann, member of the executive board. The “Frauleins” met their goal and crossed the finish line on June 29, after nine days.

Fimbel Opens New Door Center

In September, the new Fimbel Door Company’s Door Center opened for business and held an open house. About 56 dealers attended the event. The event showcased changes at Fimbel since it was acquired in November 2003 by Amarr Garage Doors.

The event was also educated dealers on the Door Center concept. Amarr has 59 such facilities around the country. The new 30,000-sq.-ft. Door Center stocks commercial and residential doors and LiftMaster operators.

Amarr Produces Classica Installation Video

In September, Amarr released a training video about the proper installation of the new Classica Collection of steel carriage-house doors.

“We want our dealers to have as much technical information about the Classica Collection as possible,” says Teresa Lowry, director of marketing, “and this video is the most comprehensive installation video that Amarr has ever developed.”

The video is available in both VHS and DVD formats.

C.H.I. Starts Emergency Ship Program

In September, the C.H.I. Rolling Steel Division emergency shipping and reduced lead-times for rolling steel doors in stock sizes and models. C.H.I. also offers component parts such as replacement spring barrels and curtains with this program.

“By shipping within a matter of hours, our distributors may be more responsive and competitive when faced with emergency service and retrofit demands,” explains David Dawdy, sales and marketing manager.

INTERNET

Upwardor Launches New Web Site

In October, Upwardor announced the launch of an overhauled Web site at www.upwardor.com. The new site seeks to help Upwardor dealers gain credibility; prospective customers can visit the Web site to become more familiar with Upwardor and its products.

The new site offers easy navigation and more information for homeowners, architects, dealers, and export distributors. Upwardor has also incorporated a slogan through the Web site: Built Strong, Built Right.

Fimbel Door Releases New Site

In September, Fimbel Door opened a new Web site (www.fimbeldoor.com) that provides easy access to product information and showcases products in a modernized format.

“We believe this new Web site will attract a whole new audience for Fimbel Door Company products,” says Hank Craig, general manager.

The new site also offers many images of Fimbel garage doors and technical information on steel gauge, insulation type, and R-values.

Classica Added to Amarr Door Designer

In September, Amarr updated its online interactive Door Designer to include the new Classica Collection of steel carriage-house doors.

Visitors can now choose from four different Classica Collection base designs, six different window or closed top sections, and three designs of decorative hardware to design a Classica door. The Classica Collection was introduced in January 2004.

Amarr’s Olympus model has also been added to the Web site. The Olympus is a steel raised panel door, with a 25-gauge exterior steel skin, 2" of polyurethane insulation, and a 27-gauge interior steel skin.

INDUSTRY

DASMA Members Address Domestic and Foreign Concerns

At DASMA’s third annual Industry Technical Forum, members advanced their expertise and knowledge of key technical product issues for North America and Europe. More than 30 leading technical representatives from more than 20 rolling door and sectional garage door manufacturers attended.

The event, held in Phoenix on Oct. 27, addressed key issues such as domestic codes, product thermal performance, and the European CE mark. DASMA Technical Director Joe Hetzel says that follow-up activity from the meeting should allow DASMA to more closely monitor and participate in key code and regulatory activities in North America and Europe.

In Europe, manufacturers use the CE mark to declare that the marked product complies with all applicable European requirements. The CE mark is now mandatory for regulated products sold in the European Union.

“When we need to resolve industry concerns,” says Hetzel, “DASMA has now established key contacts and clearer lines of communication with key regulatory and advocacy groups for selling our products in Europe and North America.”

Forum speakers included Jim Benney, executive director of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and Ann Ngo, project manager for the U.S. Department of Commerce Advocacy Center.

DASMA to Participate in IBHS Hurricane Investigations

The Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), a Florida-based organization dedicated to property loss reduction, has invited DASMA to participate in future IBHS post-hurricane investigations.

IBHS has developed an automated system to collect field data and has invited building-products industry representatives to help build a comprehensive database. The database could help future research and code content for building products.

DASMA representatives will likely be trained for field data collection prior to the next post-hurricane investigation.

CPSC Seeks Public Comments on Door and Gate Operators

On Oct. 18, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) launched two pilot programs to invite public comments on product safety voluntary standards positions and research reports.

For this pilot program, the CPSC selected eight voluntary standards, including a standard for garage door and gate operators. Public comments can be submitted at a new area of the CPSC Web site (www.cpsc.gov/volstd/standards.html).

The CPSC says it wants to open its activities for public review and comment, making the agency more transparent and obtaining public input before CPSC positions are finalized. This new pilot program will operate for six months, after which the CPSC will decide whether to extend or modify the program.

TECHNICAL

DASMA Standards to Incorporate New Hurricane Requirements

DASMA members will soon incorporate High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) provisions into relevant DASMA standards. The DASMA Commercial & Residential Garage Door Committee and Rolling Door Division made that decision at their respective meetings in Phoenix in October.

“DASMA has an opportunity for the industry to maintain control of the provisions while cooperating with other interests,” says Al Mitchell, chairman of the Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee.

The HVHZ provisions are test procedures used to determine wind load and windborne debris resistance performance. The provisions have been maintained within certain Miami-Dade documents.

The relevant DASMA standards include ANSI/DASMA 108, used for static air pressure testing, and ANSI/DASMA 115, used for windborne debris resistance testing. After updating the documents through ANSI canvassing, DASMA is expected to propose referencing of the documents in relevant codes, such as the Florida Building Code.

ANSI Recognizes New DASMA Standards

On Oct. 22, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) formally recognized two new door industry standards and one updated industry standard, and reaffirmed two other industry standards.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says, “These publications add to, enhance, and further support the industry’s technical base. DASMA’s reputation as a professional source for responsible industry standards continues to increase.”

New industry standards include ANSI/DASMA 203 (for Non-Fire-Rated Rolling Doors) and ANSI/DASMA 204 (for Fire-Rated Rolling Doors). ANSI/DASMA 102 (Specifications for Overhead-Type Doors) was updated to incorporate a number of technical revisions. The changes improve the practicality of safety factors and expand the document to incorporate new DASMA standards released since the last review.

ANSI also reaffirmed ANSI/DASMA 105 (Thermal Transmittance and Air Leakage Test Standard) and ANSI/DASMA 107 (Room Fire Test Standard for Garage Doors With Foam Plastic Insulation).

Hetzel anticipates that ANSI/DASMA 105 will undergo another ANSI canvass when a National Fenestration Rating Council task group completes work on the standard.

Sensing Edge Document Updated

In November, DASMA completed revision of a Technical Data Sheet (TDS) about sensing edges.

The document, TDS #368, incorporates provisions of the former TDS #256 (Sensing Edges for Rolling Doors) into a more comprehensive document about sensing edges on doors, gates, and grilles.

TDS #368 features principles and important safety information for various types of sensing edges common to the industry. Miller Edge’s Gary Leigh and Fraba’s Eric Lavin figured prominently in the updating of TDS #368, coordinating their work with input from members of DASMA Active Member divisions.

TDS #368 is available as a free download at www.dasma.com.

Gate Curriculum Committee Formed

In September, representatives of DASMA, American Fence Association (AFA), and the National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Association (NOMMA) met in Chicago to form a new Gate Curriculum Ad Hoc Committee. The committee will create materials for a voluntary automated gate installer certification program to be administered by the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation (IDEA).

Committee chairman Frank Hinds says, “We’ve taken our first step in the process, and I’m fine with how we plan to do this work for the industry.”

The committee plans to work with IDEA to implement the program by 2007. The committee’s members had previously comprised the Gate Standard Ad Hoc Committee, which had contributed to ASTM F 2200, the voluntary automated gate construction standard.