© 2006 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Winter 2006
Author: Tom Wadsworth
Page 4-40

NEWSLINES

PRODUCT

Wayne-Dalton Launches First Z-Wave Kit

In September, Wayne-Dalton announced a new three-in-one kit equipped with Z-Wave home automation technology. The kit includes a Home Gateway module, a Keychain Remote Control, and a Garage Door Opener Conversion Module. These products allow homeowners to activate custom scenes that trigger the Z-Wave devices in a home to the owner’s preferences.

The Home Gateway module plugs into a wall outlet and commands Z-Wave scenes from a car or hand-held remote. Each module commands up to three scenes and numerous Z-Wave devices, but users can add multiple Home Gateway modules to set more than three scenes.

The mini Keychain Remote Control can be attached to a keychain or car visor or even hung around the neck. The control communicates directly with the Home Gateway, Wayne-Dalton openers, or the Garage Door Conversion Module, which allows the Keychain Remote to control any brand garage door opener. www.wayne-dalton.com

C.H.I. Announces Next Carriage House Model

In November, C.H.I. announced the polystyrene-insulated Carriage House model 5283, available in white, sandstone, or almond. The sandwich door comes with stamped hardware or optional wrought iron hardware and several window options including glue-chip glass.

“We have been working with customers to determine our next step in carriage-house evolution and anticipate that this door will be a solid step forward for this series,” says Phil Schrock, inside sales. www.chiohd.com

DoorKing Offers Entry-Level Telephone Entry System

In November, DoorKing introduced the 1802-EPD telephone entry system, which includes an Electronic Programmable Directory as a standard feature. The 1802-EPD is designed for entry sites with up to 100 tenants.

Features include full-duplex communication, programmable directory codes, 10- and 11-digit dialing, built-in clock, time zones, and two relays for door/gate control.

The flush-mount 1802-EPD is housed in a lockable, vandal-resistant steel enclosure with a stainless steel faceplate and galvanized steel sub-plate. www.doorking.com

Amarr Adds Colored Glass

In November, Amarr announced six new designs for its DecraGlass line of garage door windows. Inspired by popular entry door window designs, the new windows come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, blue, and green.

“These new, unique designs will certainly brighten any garage and complement one’s home,” says Vickie Lents, residential doors category manager. All six designs are all available in short and long panels. www.amarr.com

Siren-Operated Sensor Gains Acceptance

In September, the SOS Siren-Operated Sensor company announced that its gate sensor product is now accepted for use in Europe. Several Italian companies are now using the SOS.

The Siren-Operated Sensor is programmed to respond only to a 911 responder’s siren. Introduced to American gate installers in 1987, the SOS responds to a siren’s oscillating “YELP” sound, triggering the gate to open in 2.5 seconds or less.

The SOS’s sensitivity is adjustable; a gate will not be opened until the SOS microprocessor hears and scopes a 100+ decibel sound. www.sosgate.com

1st United Introduces New Hardware

In October, 1st United Door Technologies introduced a new series of low-cost, carriage-house decorative hardware for add-on sales opportunities.

“It looks like forged, at the cost of cast,” says Mike Shackleford, vice president of purchasing.

The patent-pending hardware features a wrought iron look and is steel cast for weatherability and durability. www.firstudt.com

Reno Announces Preformed Loop Detector

In August, Reno A&E announced the Model PLH Preformed Loop, a prefabricated loop/lead-in assembly for access and traffic applications.

Designed for durability and easy installation, the loop’s .36" cables have insulation and jackets made of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) to resist moisture and chemicals and to withstand temperatures up to 426 degrees F. After construction, the entire loop assembly is tested for 72 hours in a salt-water bath.

For the PLH, Reno A&E has developed a corner bracket that eases installation by holding the loop in place especially during pave-over operations. www.renoae.com

Wayne-Dalton Expands Colors for the 9700

In November, Wayne-Dalton announced that the Model 9700 is now available in 14 door styles and three new colors. Options include clear or patterned windows with divided panes and trim hardware that recreates the look of swing doors.

The Model 9700, an insulated steel door, is now available in white, clay, gray, and green. The door comes in three sections on 7'-high doors and four sections on 8'-high doors. All panels have white interiors with color-matched, low-profile hinges. www.wayne-dalton.com

Rutland Unveils Commercial Gate Operators

In October, Rutland Professional Products released its line of automatic gate operators and accessories. Made in the U.S.A., Rutland commercial-rated gate operators are available in three sizes (R500 for gates 16'/500 lbs., R700 for gates 16'/700 lbs., R1000 for gates 20'/1,000 lbs.) and feature a 24V DC motor for more mounting options and an opening speed of 15 seconds.

Rutland’s control box houses installer-friendly features such as easy access to large replaceable terminals, multiple diagnostic LEDs, and a common control board for all models. All Rutland gate operators meet UL 325 safety requirements.

Other customizable features include graduated soft start/soft stop and the patent-pending Syncro-Close that simultaneously closes double gates. The patent-pending Alley-Open allows different opening options for each leaf: pull-to-open and push-to-open.

Rutland also offers accessories including solar-powered battery chargers, in-ground vehicle sensors, automatic gate locks, and keypads. Rutland Professional Products are manufactured by Zareba Systems. www.rutlandpro.com

US Door Introduces New Self-Storage Door

In September, US Door & Building Components introduced the Model 502 Roll-Up Door for the self-storage and the retail do-it-yourself markets. The new door has a fully enclosed barrel and a new easy-to-adjust tension device.

The Model 502’s galvanized steel barrel provides even lifting and a protective barrier against dents. The door comes in 22 colors and in a wind-load version, the Model 502-30. Optional features include electric operators and an economical shaft drive hoist. www.usdoor.com

Reno Releases Automatic Vehicle Identification

In June, Reno A&E announced its Automatic Vehicle Identification (AVI) systems for controlling vehicle movement into and out of secured areas controlled by gates, barriers, etc.

Vehicles equipped with a Reno A&E low-frequency, digitally encoded AVI transmitter emit a short-range signal from the vehicle to the in-pavement loop. When the transmitter is above the loop, the signal is coupled to the AVI receiver, providing hands-free operation for opening gates.

Each vehicle equipped with an AVI transmitter will automatically open gates equipped with an AVI receiver. www.renoae.com

City-Gates Announces New Fire Door

In October, City-Gates announced its new UL-approved automatic-reset fire-rated rolling steel door. The door’s governor system allows the user to test a fire-rated door by pulling on a wall-mounted lever that activates the door to close at a controlled speed.

After the door completes its descent, pushing up the lever resets the door’s governor system. The user can raise the door back to the open position with the built-in chain-hoist system or an electronic control station. This eliminates the need to reset the tension on the spring.

The reset system can also be added to non-rated service doors. When this automatic reset system is added, a non-rated service door can be UL-approved for up to three hours. www.citygatesusa.com

Makita Extends Cordless Tool Line

In October, Makita announced its new 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Hybrid Impact-Hammer-Driver-Drill Kit, model BTP140. The new 4-function tool adds to Makita’s 35 LXT models with 18V lithium-ion technology.

“This 4-function tool can drive lag bolts, drive screws with clutch settings, drill into concrete, and drill into wood,” says Ken Hefley, senior vice president of marketing.

The BTP140 Hybrid Drill weighs 3.9 pounds, up to 40 percent lighter than other cordless driver-drills. Its L.E.D. light illuminates the work surface for more accurate work. The Model BTP140 kit includes two LXT lithium-ion (3.0Ah) batteries that provide 1,400 battery life-cycles, longer run time, and lower self-discharge to keep cells active. www.makitatools.com

PEOPLE

Former OSCO President Joins Invisa

In June, Invisa announced that William Hildebrand had joined the company as senior vice president of sales and marketing.

Hildebrand brings more than 30 years of experience, including the past nine years as COO and president of Operator Specialty Company (OSCO), a manufacturer of gate and commercial door operators. He has served in the Operator & Electronics division of DASMA and on the DASMA board of directors.

Hildebrand says his challenge at Invisa is to “generate the market awareness our technology deserves and to get Invisa recognized as the industry standard for proven, non-contact gate safety devices.”

“Bill is a consummate professional, team builder, strategist, and contract negotiator who brings a well-balanced business perspective to our company,” adds Carl Parks, Invisa’s COO.

Royal Mouldings CEO Retires

In the fall of 2006, Royal Mouldings CEO Larry Davis retired after 37 years with the company, which is now owned by Georgia Gulf.

Davis joined the company in 1969 when it was Mouldings Inc. He started as an industrial engineer and later served as plant manager and controller in Harrisburg, Ore., group analyst in Portland, Ore., VP & general manager in Jacksonville, Fla., then as VP and senior VP in Marion, Va. After he became president in 1981, the company became an innovative leader in the PVC profiles and millwork marketplace.

Amarr Promotes Sears to CFO

In September, Richard Sears was promoted to CFO at Amarr Garage Doors. For the past three years as vice president and treasurer, Sears has been involved in the acquisition of Fimbel Door, improvement of operations at HammerNetwork, and the launch of the new Carolina plant.

As chief financial officer for Amarr, Sears will oversee all accounting functions, credit functions, financing for acquisitions, and financial reporting. He has been a certified public accountant for more than 25 years.

Sears holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Before joining Amarr, he was audit manager for a CPA firm and treasurer and chief accounting officer for Oakwood Homes.

East to Head Amarr Carolina Plant

In November, Amarr announced that Tony East had been named the director of manufacturing for the new North Carolina plant in Davie County.

An Amarr engineer since 1994, East recently served as director of applications engineering. He recently completed an M.B.A. and holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering. He has been active on a DASMA technical committee since 1997 and has served on Amarr’s strategic planning committee since 2001.

The new 109,000-sq.-ft. Carolina plant is located about 30 miles west of Amarr’s corporate support center in Winston-Salem. The facility will open for production in January 2007.

McManus Joins Arrow Tru-Line

In November, Arrow Tru-Line announced the hiring of Paul McManus as director of strategic accounts.

A garage door industry veteran, McManus started with his father’s door dealership, Door Boy in Berkeley Heights, N.J. He is a recipient of the Joe Caputo IDA Dealer of the Year award.

He then served as marketing manager with A-tech and is currently serving his second term on the IDA board of directors and as the IDA industry vice president.

Vinson Returns to Delden

Delden has hired Rick Vinson of Chicago, Ill., to assume responsibility of operations of Delden distribution centers in Des Moines, Iowa, and Tulsa, Okla. Vinson has 35 years of industry experience as an installer, salesman, and dealer/owner. He previously served as president and partner of Delden Mfg. of Illinois.

New VPs at Janus

In November, Janus International announced the promotion of Morgan Hodges from vice president of technical sales to vice president. Hodges will help enact strategic and operational directives for Janus International.

In addition, Ramey Jackson has been promoted from national sales manager, commercial products, to vice president of sales. Jackson will manage the inside and outside sales force for Janus commercial, industrial, and self-storage markets.

In September, Janus promoted Sandy Chambers to director of inside sales and customer service.

Overhead Door Announces Promotions

In November, Overhead Door announced the promotion of Mark Sendar to director of distributor development and Chris Manolis to director of national accounts, both working out of the corporate office in Lewisville, Texas.

Sendar joined Overhead Door in 1998 as district sales manager and later became a regional sales manager. He now manages the ribbon distributor channel for the Overhead Door brand. Before joining Overhead Door, he was a regional sales manager for Fimbel Door.

Manolis now manages team development and the national accounts group, which services large retail customers. He joined Overhead Door in 2005 as North Central district sales and new business development manager. Manolis served in the U.S. Army for 13 years.

Amarr Names Controller

In October, Brian Lunsford joined Amarr Garage Doors as the new controller. Lunsford oversees all accounting functions and provides accounting support to management.
He brings nine years of experience to the position.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in math and a master’s degree in accounting. Prior to joining Amarr, Lunsford was corporate controller for Bassett Furniture.

C.H.I. Expands Sales Management

In August, C.H.I. Overhead Doors announced the addition of two sales managers.

Mark Sand brings 10 years of experience to his role as residential national accounts manager. His new job is to expand C.H.I.’s presence in the builder market.

Chris Jones, as C.H.I. sales manager, will oversee all regional sales activities and build sales in targeted regions.

PPG Names GM of Corporate Marketing

In November, PPG Industries named Patrick Kenny to the newly created position of general manager, corporate marketing and construction markets.

Kenny has been manager of PPG’s construction market team since 2003. He joined the company in 1980 in marketing. Kenny holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and an executive M.B.A.

PPG, a supplier of coatings to the garage door industry, employs more than 31,000 people and has 110 manufacturing facilities in more than 20 countries.

BEA Hires Strategic Accounts Director

In November, door sensor manufacturer BEA appointed Christian Nauman as director of strategic accounts, responsible for relationships with OEMs and other key corporate accounts.

Nauman’s experience includes serving as account manager and operations manager with W.W. Grainger. He holds a B.S., an M.B.A., and master’s degrees in environmental science and management.

Bircher Adds Sales Position

In October, Bircher America announced that Joel De Los Santos has joined the firm as their second regional sales manager. He will cover all the Sunbelt states and the West Coast. De Los Santos brings 14 years of experience in the automatic door industry.

Amarr Promotes Crabaugh to VP of Production

In November, Amarr announced the promotion of Sandy Crabaugh to vice president of production. She has 12 years of experience in customer service and manufacturing, most recently serving as director of manufacturing.

Crabaugh is also a member of Amarr’s strategic planning committee and is completing a degree in business administration. Before joining Amarr, she was with Artex Sportswear for 16 years.

1st United Creates Licensing Position

In November, 1st United Door Technologies (FUDT) announced the addition of Ron Gourley as director of Steelhouse licensing, a new position.

Gourley is responsible for attracting new opportunities for FUDT’s licensing program. In addition, he will also function as the Midwest sales manager.

Gourley has 16 years of experience in the garage door industry, most recently as vice president of customer service & supply for Ankmar.

DBCi Announces Business Development Award

In October, DBCi announced that Jack Robbins, district sales manager for the commercial door division, had earned the company’s 2006 Business Development Award.

The award recognizes Robbins’s achievements in new business development and market share growth in his territory. Robbins has been with DBCi three years; he serves 13 states in the central region.

Dealer’s Wife Cuts CD in Nashville

Kathryn Mickey, wife of Ken Mickey, manager of Thompson Garage Doors in Sparks, Nev., recently cut her first CD in Nashville. “Victory in Jesus” features Mickey at the piano playing a mix of traditional gospel songs.

Mickey’s work on another project caught the ear of Louie Swift, a Nashville producer who has worked with Alabama, Conway Twitty, Waylon Jennings, Barbara Fairchild, The Lettermen, and others. Swift contacted Mickey and offered to produce her music, saying she was creating a new sound that no one is doing in Nashville.

Mickey recorded the CD in Nashville in June 2006. She says her CD has already been played on TV twice and will air on radio stations in the South, where gospel music is more popular. Her music is available at www.kathrynmickey.com. She holds a degree in music and currently teaches music at a private school in Reno to grades K-12.

COMPANIES

Clopay Inks Deal With Pulte Homes

In September, Clopay announced that it had signed an exclusive, three-year agreement with Pulte Homes, a Fortune 500 homebuilder with operations in 53 markets and 27 states.

“This agreement with Pulte is evidence that a shift has occurred,” says Steve Lynch, Clopay’s vice president of marketing. “Builders are recognizing the impact garage door design and construction has on a home’s appearance, safety, energy efficiency, and value.”

Sean Degen, Pulte’s national vice president of product development, says Clopay was selected for the depth of its product lines, history of innovation, production capacity, and its nationwide dealer network.

Amarr Kicks Off Construction at Carolina Plant

In September, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx and a delegation of state and local officials joined Amarr Garage Doors for the official beginning of construction and recruiting at the company’s new garage door manufacturing facility, called the Carolina Plant, in Davie County, N.C. The plant is expected to begin production in early 2007.

The plant is expected to create 150 jobs, and Amarr plans to invest $10.5 million in the plant during the next three years. Richard Brenner, Amarr CEO, says the new facility responds to a significant increase in demand for Amarr doors. He says Amarr already has plans for a possible 86,000-sq.-ft. expansion.

To assist the project, North Carolina is providing a $75,000 grant, and local municipalities are providing $100,000 in local incentives.

Iowa Spring Opens Plant in North Carolina

In December, Iowa Spring opened a new plant in Granite Quarry, N.C. The new division, Southern Atlantic Spring, will produce premium garage door springs for door manufacturers and distributors.

“We are seeing tremendous customer growth in the overhead garage door industry in this part of the country,” explains Tim Bianco, president.

The general manager of the 96,000-sq.-ft. facility is Kevin Stapleton, who comes to Southern Atlantic Spring with a history in spring manufacturing.

Starting with 25 employees, the company expects to expand to 35-40 employees and two shifts by the end of 2007.

GarageWorks Steel Expands to Eastern U.S.

In January, GarageWorks Steel announced that it will be stocking perforated angle products in Vinemont, Ala., to serve the eastern United States. All products are manufactured at the company’s facility in Denver, Colo.

“We determined that there was a real need for a stocking center of our perforated angle east of the Mississippi,” says Dana Kitch, sales manager.

City-Gates Recovers From Fire

City-Gates, a manufacturer of rolling doors in the New York City area, recently opened a new production facility and distribution center where their old factory stood since 1950. A fire destroyed their production facility in December 2003.

The company says the new facility has many new features to ensure product quality control and faster lead times. City-Gates makes rolling steel service doors, aluminum coiling grilles, counter shutters, insulated rolling doors, perforated rolling doors, and fire doors.

Amarr Presents Annual Dealer Awards

In October, Amarr presented its annual dealer awards during the four-day 2006 VIP Adventure in Nassau, Bahamas. Stock Building Supply of Raleigh, N.C., was named the Dealer of the Year for the largest increase in sales volume over the previous year and for loyalty to the Amarr brand.

Other top award winners included Lonevaag Beslgfabrikk of Norway—International Dealer of the Year, Portones Garcia Mancillas—Dealer of the Year for Mexico, and Miller’s Overhead Door of Virginia—VIP Crown Award for earning the incentive trip for the seventh consecutive year. Graves Overhead and A-Plus, both from Georgia, each received an Exceptional Performance Award.

About 340 participated in the trip. Some dealers earned more than two spots for higher sales volume. Amarr Door Center general managers and sales personnel were also eligible to earn the trip. Next year’s VIP Adventure is a trip to Hawaii.

BioMetrx to Sell Online

In November, BioMetrx announced that it is launching a Web site to sell its SmartTouch finger-activated garage door opener transmitter, thermostat, and portable files drive. The Web site will use Google’s infrastructure and offer its installation and instructional videos.

The company has received over 1,000 online direct consumer orders for its finger-activated garage door switch, according to Lorraine Yarde, COO.

BioMetrx management estimates that close to 30 million U.S. households have garage door openers. With an achieved sales price of approximately $100 for the SmartTouch GDO transmitter, the company says its potential U.S. market could be as large as $3 billion.

GarageDoorsofAmerica.com Launched

In July, a new Internet lead-generation Web site, www.garagedoorsofamerica.com, was launched for the residential garage door industry.

Garage Doors of America (GDA) provides all of its exclusive leads to only one garage door dealer in any given service area. The exclusive leads are instantly sent to the GDA partner company via e-mail and text messaging.

The GDA partner’s phone number is given to the customer to encourage direct contact. GDA generates leads by gaining high Web site rankings for the most popular Internet keyword searches for the residential garage door industry on the five major search engines: Google, MSN, Yahoo, AOL, and Ask.

Royal Mouldings Launches Texas Distribution

In September, Royal Mouldings launched a new distribution program from its Waco, Texas, manufacturing facility. The new program allows quicker shipments of minimum quantities that can be bundled together with other products.

“Smaller contractors can order as few as 30 pieces in a profile bundle from their pro dealer, lumberyard, or pre-hanger instead of the usual 378 pieces, allowing for orders of multiple profiles in smaller quantities than were offered before by the company,” says Larry Foster, product manager.

The program is expanding to include Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, and areas of Georgia.

Amarr Expands Jeld-Wen Distribution Worldwide

In October, Amarr expanded its agreement with Jeld-Wen and began selling Jeld-Wen garage doors worldwide through all 65 of Amarr’s Door Centers. The original agreement between the two companies had Amarr distributing the doors in 18 test markets.

“The response to the Jeld-Wen garage doors in the test markets was outstanding,” says Patrick O’Sullivan, Amarr’s vice president of marketing and new ventures. The exterior of the Jeld-Wen doors is made from a wood composite material that resists extreme temperatures.

“The Jeld-Wen garage doors provide options for dealers when a homeowner is looking for an upscale garage door, but are worried about the cost of a traditional wood carriage-house door,” adds O’Sullivan. “We feel these models fit perfectly into our already existing product line and should provide both companies with long-term growth in the category.”

SPX Sells Dock Products Business

In October, management members of SPX Dock Products and Wynnchurch Capital announced the purchase of SPX Dock Products from SPX Corporation. SPX Dock Products, headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, with operations in Wisconsin, Canada, and Mexico, has annual revenues exceeding $150 million.

Because of the ownership change, SPX Dock Products has changed its name to 4Front Engineered Solutions (www.4FrontES.com). The company offers a broad loading dock product line and markets its products under the names of Kelley, Serco, TKO Dock Doors, LoadHog, and APS Resource.

Wayne-Dalton Participates in Home Makeover

Wayne-Dalton recently participated in a project for ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” The company donated a Model 9800 fiberglass-clad garage door and a prodrive garage door opener for the Thomas family.

Jason Thomas, 32, is a former Marine who helped rescue two New York City Port Authority police officers after the Sept. 11, 2001, attack. Thomas is now a security guard at the Ohio Supreme Court.

As of November, no air date for the show had yet been set.

Clopay Fleet Gets Makeover

In September, Clopay Building Products Company introduced 100 new trailers with updated graphics that showcase the range of designs in the Clopay line. The trailers are equipped with a special track that helps better secure the product and reduce damage during shipment.

“Our fleet travels in excess of eight million miles annually,” says Steve Lynch, vice president of marketing. “The exposure these trailers will give our products is substantial.”

Amarr Plant Receives Two Awards
Caption: Amarr’s Kirsten Krug accepts the Foundation Award from Lawrence Mayor Mike Amyx.

In October, Amarr’s Lawrence, Kan., manufacturing facility received two different awards for economic growth from the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce and the City of Lawrence.

The Chamber honored Amarr with an Excellence in Commerce Award in manufacturing/distribution. Amarr was recognized after investing $17 million to expand the Lawrence plant by 130,000 sq. ft.

On the same day, the Lawrence City Commission gave Amarr the Foundation Award, presented to local employers that grow the number of jobs at their facilities by 10 percent or 50 employees. From February 2004 to May 2006, Amarr added 134 jobs.

Cornell Adds New Sales Regions

In November, Cornell Iron Works announced the addition of four new sales regions and four regional sales managers.

The four newly formed regions are Ohio Valley, Western, North-West, and Southern regions. Serving these regions are Gary Owens (Ohio Valley), Eric Camin (Western), Jim Sheehan (North-West), and James Schoettler (Southern).

Chamberlain and A&D Help Low-Income Complex

In September, Chamberlain and A&D Automatic Gates of Redwood City, Calif., donated electronic gates and gate operators for the residents of the St. Francis Center, a low-income residential community in Redwood City. The 24 families of the St. Francis Center previously parked their cars in an open lot and experienced frequent vehicle break-ins and car thefts.

“After hearing about the trouble, everyone at A&D wanted to help those families,” says Art Hird, president of A&D. “Our employees volunteered their time on weekends to build the custom gates and install the operators.”

Amarr Offers Degree Program to Employees
Caption: Brian Hoag, Amarr’s first graduate.

Amarr now offers employees several internal degree programs to provide learning and advancement opportunities.

The degrees include Associate in Warehouse Operations, Bachelor of Door Center Management, Bachelor of Plant Management, Bachelor of Office Fundamentals, Bachelor of Sales, and Master of Business Management. Each degree can be completed in one to two years.

Brian Hoag, the first graduate, earned the Associate in Warehouse Operations degree and was then promoted to manager trainee for the Grand Rapids, Mich., Door Center.

Garaga Holds Coloring Contest for Door Safety
Caption: U.S. winner Jessica Benjamin from Moosup, Conn., with her mother and Stan Kopreski of Garaga.

In June, Garaga teamed up with the International Door Association (IDA) to hold a coloring contest. All Garaga dealers in Canada and the United States were encouraged to participate.

The drawing was printable from Garaga’s Web site, and 154 colored drawings were received from children. One winner was selected from Canada and one from the United States.

Miller Edge Partners With Charity
Caption: Roseanne Ortega and her service dog, Honeybun.

In August, Miller Edge announced its support of Canine Partners for Life (CPL), a national service-dog organization with a campus in Cochranville, Pa.

CPL (www.k94life.org) increases the independence and quality of life for people with mobility impairments by providing professionally trained service dogs and support services.

Miller Edge employee Roseanne Ortega serves as a CPL volunteer, teaches basic obedience training, and is providing a temporary home for a CPL puppy.

INTERNET

Clopay Web Site Gets New Look

In November, Clopay launched its new, enhanced consumer Web site at www.clopaydoor.com. “We’ve changed the navigation to a guided-sell format to help customers find a door that is based on their preferred purchasing style,” says Pat Lohse, vice president of residential marketing.

Visual shoppers are directed to images or videos that focus on design. Once they see something they like, the guided path takes them to the product of their choice. Those who prefer to review and compare product specs can go straight to the facts.

Clopay has also created a Guide Me Quiz that will recommend up to three doors that are based on answers to questions. Other site enhancements include dedicated homeowner, contractor, and architect areas, and improved dealer locator visibility.

1st United Launches New Web Site

In September, 1st United Door Technologies launched its new Web site, www.firstudt.com, with improvements in information, navigation, and appearance.

Visitors can browse the site as a homeowner, builder, architect/designer, or as one of the company’s dealers. Web pages make it easier for visitors to find what they are looking for and know where they are within the site.

The site also features enhanced graphics, new page layouts, online video spokespersons, bilingual brochures, and a Design-A-Door feature.

Wayne-Dalton Unveils Web Site Upgrades

In November, Wayne-Dalton upgraded the company’s Web site at www.wayne-dalton.com, offering a new look and streamlined navigation. The new home page includes a prominent news section with product and company news.

In the HomeSettings section, consumers can learn about Z-Wave-enabled products with user manuals for each product and a list of frequently asked questions. Interactive capabilities include a “Take Control” function where visitors can see which Z-Wave-enabled products are most applicable to their needs.

INDUSTRY

Florida: Garage Door Labeling Coming

In September, a Florida Building Commission (FBC) work group began to develop requirements for labeling of garage doors. DASMA has been included in the work group.

Scott Hamilton of Clopay, who attended the September meeting, says the labeling would simply show information already included in Florida’s product approval process and not create any kind of a state-mandated labeling program.

“The label would be no substitute for having approved drawings at every job site,” he adds. Recommendations are expected to be sent to FBC by January 2007.

DASMA Forms Wood Garage Door Subcommittee

In October, DASMA’s new Wood Garage Door Subcommittee held its first meeting. Mike Rader of Summit Door was appointed chair of the new group, which will report to the Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee.

At this first meeting, the subcommittee discussed California formaldehyde emissions legislation, wood door finishing guidelines in Technical Data Sheet 162, and technical items to consider when purchasing a wood door.

The subcommittee includes representatives from other wood garage door manufacturers and is expected to meet regularly.

Rolling Sheet Door Group Gets Underway

October 2006 marked the first meetings of DASMA’s newly formed Rolling Sheet Door Subcommittee. Bray Allen of DBCi is the chair of the new group, which will report to the Rolling Door Division.

At its first meeting, the subcommittee determined that it needs to review certain existing DASMA standards to spur activity on terminology, performance standards, and labeling.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says that DASMA’s two new subcommittees reflect the continued growth of technical work and participation in the association. “It shows a healthy environment for furthering DASMA’s mission, benefiting the entire industry in the process,” he adds.

IDEA Recommended for Gate Operator Certification Program

In October, the Automated Vehicular Gate Systems Ad Hoc Committee recommended that the Institute for Door Dealer Education & Accreditation (IDEA) administer a proposed gate operator installer certification program.

Frank Hinds, committee chair, says his group has developed a brochure explaining the program, which should be available in time for 2007 AFA FenceTech. He says program materials are expected to be completed by September 2007, with a program rollout slated for January 2008.

The ad hoc committee includes representatives of AFA, DASMA, and NOMMA. IDEA is composed of representatives of IDA and DASMA.

Acting Chair Appointed for High Performance Door Division

David Kendell of Megadoor, Wind Load Subcommittee chair of DASMA’s High Performance Division, became acting chair of the division in the summer of 2006.

Kendell replaces Don Wagner, who left the industry in early 2006. A permanent chair is expected to be confirmed at the DASMA annual meeting in January 2007.

TECHNICAL

DASMA Holds Sixth Annual Technical Forum
Caption: Dr. Lee Shoemaker of MBMA discusses new wind-load issues.

Here are the highlights of DASMA’s sixth annual technical forum held in Kansas City in October for technical experts from DASMA’s garage door and rolling door manufacturers.

Wind-Load Issues

Current perspectives on wind-load issues were addressed by Dr. Lee Shoemaker, director of research for the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA). As a member of the influential ASCE 7 Wind Load Committee, Shoemaker discussed the relevance of that wind-load standard to garage doors and rolling doors.

He said the committee is to meet in January 2007 after a nearly two-year layoff. DASMA concerns about wind-load determination are expected to be advanced at that time.

FEMA: Garage Door Performance in Hurricanes

Garage and rolling door failures in the 2004 and 2005 major hurricanes were described by Tom Smith of FEMA’s (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT).

Smith noted four aspects of failures: (1) door/track interfacing providing inadequate resistance to wind pressure, (2) inadequate attachment of track to jambs, (3) inadequate attachment of jambs to building framing, and (4) window breakage. Smith said FEMA has published its findings, and he encouraged DASMA to review them and provide comment.

New Research on U-factors

“Emissivity,” a function of a door’s surface and finish, significantly affects U-factor values, according to Gurjinder Singh, staff engineer at ETC Laboratories. Singh discussed computer simulations of U-factors and the thermal performance of garage doors and rolling doors. Singh is expected to conduct a closer study of the role of emissivity and U-factors.

DASMA: Thermal Performance Strategy

Joe Hetzel, DASMA’s technical director, gave an update on DASMA’s thermal performance strategy, in development since 2004. The strategy seeks to develop suitable, repeatable, and reliable methods of obtaining thermal performance values. Hetzel said that DASMA would continue its participation within the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) regarding support of the strategy.

Texas: Codes and Winds Update

Speaking via teleconference, Dr. Paul Bove of the Texas Department of Insurance (DOI) updated members on the Texas building code development process and related activities of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. Bove noted DASMA’s many successful recent code change proposals and the continued cooperation between DASMA and the DOI.

Insights From Co-Author of Saffir-Simpson Scale

Members also heard from Herb Saffir, co-author of the famed Saffir-Simpson Scale, commonly used to rate hurricanes by categories according to wind speed and damage potential. Saffir explained how the scale was created and discussed his familiarity with garage door and rolling door performance in hurricanes.

Saffir agreed with DASMA’s assessment that the news media does not adequately explain the difference between Scale winds (based on 60-second measurements) and building code design winds (based on three-second gusts). He said the difference between the two measurements can be as much as 15 to 20 percent.

DASMA Initiates Steps to Improve Structural Framing

Seeking stronger and more reliable interfacing between doors and opening framing, DASMA has initiated a dialogue with three trade associations involved in the structural framing of openings for large doors.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says various relevant DASMA Technical Data Sheets have been sent to representatives of the American Forest & Paper Association, the Portland Cement Association, and the National Concrete Masonry Association.

Hetzel hopes that the coordination of the work will result in better information published by DASMA and the three organizations.

New Subcommittee Responds to Emissions Legislation

DASMA’s newly formed Wood Garage Door Subcommittee responded quickly to proposed formaldehyde emissions reduction legislation in California. At their inaugural meeting in October, the subcommittee drafted a letter to the California Air Resources Board requesting that garage doors be exempted from the legislation.

The letter submitted the following points:

· A garage door has virtually no impact on indoor air quality.
· When a garage door is opened and closed, it allows an almost complete exchange of air in a garage.
· Garage doors are separated from a home’s living space by fire doors and fire-rated walls.
· Wood garage doors typically include materials that resist exposure to weather. These materials, also used in siding, soffits, and fascia boards, are typically low emitters of formaldehyde.

Mike Rader of Summit Door, subcommittee chair, believes that DASMA has a strong case for exemption. “Some other related exterior building products are currently exempt,” he says. “Exempting wood garage doors should not hurt the legislation’s intent in the long run.”

Thermal Performance Project Completed
Caption: Joe Hetzel presents an update on the project at the DASMA Technical Summit in October.

In July, DASMA completed a laboratory test and computer simulation project that seeks suitable, repeatable ways to determine U-factors for garage doors and rolling doors. DASMA’s tested products were identical to products tested in a research project sponsored by the American Society for Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

The results of both projects will be reviewed by a National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) Task Group chaired by DASMA’s Joe Hetzel. “We have a plan that should result in reliable, technically accurate data and standards,” he says.

DASMA to Develop Standards for Flexible Doors

In October, the Wind-Load Subcommittee of the High Performance Door Division recommended that DASMA develop wind-related standards for “flexible doors.”

David Kendell of Megadoor, subcommittee chair, says existing wind load and windborne debris test procedures and acceptance criteria are geared toward rigid doors and not doors made from fabrics or other flexible materials.

“We plan to look into the reasoning behind existing provisions, and we hope to come up with technically sound provisions,” says Kendell. “We will conduct research as needed.”

ANSI/DASMA Standards Gain More Respect

In 2006, two ANSI/DASMA standards were adopted by building codes in two states and in two model building codes. The standards are ANSI/DASMA 108, the wind-load testing standard, and ANSI/DASMA 115, the windborne debris resistance standard.

The Florida Building Code and the Texas state building and residential codes will reference ANSI/DASMA 108. These codes will also reference the 115 standard or other approved standards such as those published by Miami-Dade County. The International Code Council also approved the language for inclusion in the International Building Code and the International Residential Code.

Joe Hetzel of DASMA says having the standards referenced in the model building codes sets the industry up for a positive nationwide impact. He says, “This means that when a consumer buys our industry’s products where wind requirements are enforced, they can be confident that such requirements were approved by our industry.”