© 2008 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Winter 2008
Author: Tom Wadsworth
Pages 6-36

NEWSLINES

THE FRONT PAGE
Our Top NewsLines Stories

products
Raynor Launches New Wood Carriage Doors
Read the full story in Product News on page 8.

companies
Hörmann Gadco Becomes Hörmann
See page 22.

Wayne-Dalton Restructures Pensacola Plant
See page 22.

technical
DASMA Technical Forum Grows
See page 34.

PRODUCTS

Raynor Launches New Wood Carriage Doors

In November, Raynor announced the TimberBay Collection of wood carriage house doors featuring a wood frame, polystyrene core, and cedar or mahogany exterior.

“TimberBay has a quality and styling that is outstanding, but at a lower price than our flagship wood door line—the American Rivers Collection,” says Rick Considine, senior vice president of sales and marketing.

Its swing-up, swing-out, accordion, and bi-fold models feature a five-year warranty or a six-year warranty if the factory Environmental Borate Treatment option is selected. Positioned between American Rivers and RiverPointe, TimberBay offers more options and features than RiverPointe and is more economical than American Rivers. www.raynor.com

Overhead Door Adds Insulated Fire Door

In September, Overhead Door announced the extension of its fire door product line with the new FireKing Insulated Fire Door.

Approved by Underwriters Laboratories and Factory Mutual in the United States and Canada, the energy-efficient FireKing is ideal for applications requiring climate control and an entry/exit door. It has a Sound Transmission Class of 23, satisfying all applications requiring sound removal. Optional smoke seals can be added.

The door features a four-hour rating on masonry, concrete, and steel walls; a three-hour rating on non-masonry walls; an R-value of 4.5; and a mineral wool insert offering a Smoke and Flame index of 5. www.overheaddoor.com

Clopay Adds Polyurethane for Gallery Models

In October, Clopay introduced 1-3/8"- and 2"-thick polyurethane insulation options to its Gallery Collection of steel doors, nearly doubling the thermal protection of the polystyrene-insulated Gallery models.

The sandwich-constructed doors feature environmentally safe, CFC-free, polyurethane foam injected between two layers of heavy gauge steel with a thermal break. The 1-3/8"-thick model provides an R-value of 12.9; the 2" model’s R-value is 17.2. Insulated windows are also an option.

The Gallery Collection offers both long and short grooved panels in white, almond, brown, and sandtone with multiple design and window combinations. Other standard features include 14-gauge steel hinges, nylon rollers, galvanized torsion springs, and UV-protected color-matched window frames, inserts, and grip/step handles. www.clopaydoor.com

Raynor Unveils TradeMark Steel Doors

In November, Raynor announced its new TradeMark 24-gauge residential raised-panel pan doors, available with polystyrene insulation.

Design options include colonial, ranch, or carriage house panels in white, claytone, almond, and dark brown, offered in widths of 4' to 20' in one-inch increments and in heights up to 10' in three-inch increments (7'3" is not available). Snap-in window styles and decorative hardware are available.

TradeMark doors also feature factory-supplied low-headroom and improved center stiles with a stronger C-shaped design and include a universal lock pattern. www.raynor.com

Chamberlain Introduces Medium-Duty Logic for Commercial Operators

In September, Chamberlain introduced Medium-Duty Logic, an easy-to-program operator system for medium-use commercial door applications. This new LiftMaster offering uses an integrated printed circuit board (PCB) to replace commonly used mechanical relays with a cleaner and more reliable design.

The new operators add a built-in radio receiver, a timer-to-close function (TTC), and an integral maximum run timer of 90 seconds. Compatible with all Chamberlain wireless products, Medium-Duty Logic operators can be programmed to as many as 20 Chamberlain 315 MHz Security+ single-button transmitters or unlimited DIP switch remote transmitters.

Rated for up to 12 cycles per hour/50 per day, Medium-Duty Logic operators are UL-325 compliant and come standard with high-starting torque motors, entrapment monitoring, and enhanced surge protection. Several different models were to be available by the end of 2008. www.liftmaster.com

Raynor Adds DC-Motor Belt-Drive Openers

In October, Raynor announced the addition of Admiral, a belt-driven residential opener with a 12-volt DC motor and a fully integrated battery backup.

Its DC motor speed matches AC operators. The unit has dual lights (200 watts) and a premium remote control with rolling code security. Admiral’s Smart Control Panel offers a motion-detecting wall control that displays the time, inside-garage temperature, and system status messages.

With EverCharge Raynor Standby Power, Admiral can operate up to 40 cycles in a 24-hour period and recharges automatically when power returns. www.raynor.com

Cookson Introduces New Grille

In November, The Cookson Company announced its Access Controlled Egress (ACE) Grille that offers the security of a regular grille with the ability to open automatically during an alarm. The ACE Grille is designed for use in public buildings such as schools and hospitals where access controlled egress grilles are required by the building codes. www.cookson.com

Royal Adds New Surround Systems

In November, Royal Mouldings announced its new No-Rot Window and Door Envelop Surround Systems, made of 100 percent cellular vinyl PVC.

All profiles are ready to install with a 10-year warranted UV factory-applied finish. Unique designs can be created to complement many styles and profiles. www.royalmouldings.com

Raynor Enhances BuildMark Doors

In October, Raynor announced enhancements to its BuildMark S and STS residential doors.

BuildMark S doors are now available with poly impact insulation, and dark brown has been added to its color offering of white, claytone, and almond. Stronger C-shaped center stiles are also now included.

BuildMark S and STS residential doors are now available in a factory-supplied low-headroom option and in heights up to 10' in three-inch increments (7'3" height is not available). www.raynor.com

Sommer Adds Swing Door Fitting

In November, Sommer USA announced a new fitting that accommodates the operation of a swing door without interfering with the photo eyes. www.Sommer-USA.com

Janus Announces New Handle

In November, Janus introduced a new handle for all self-storage roll-up doors.

The new handle is made of acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), an engineered terpolymer. Designed for outdoor applications, the enhanced handle is resistant to moisture, rust, high temperatures, high impact, and chemicals. www.janusintl.com

Wayne-Dalton Introduces Teleport Remote

In November, Wayne-Dalton’s Home Access and Controls Division introduced its new Teleport Audio-Visual Remote Control. Teleport is a combination Z-Wave and infrared remote control that can manage all of the audiovisual equipment in a home as well as a Z-Wave Home Control network.

Up to 232 modules can operate in a network, including lights, window coverings, thermostats, small appliances, CD players, DVD players, televisions, set-top boxes, and other home electronics. The Teleport remote can create and trigger up to 20 Z-Wave preset scenes.

Priced hundreds below its competitor, Teleport is the most affordable Z-Wave-compatible A/V remote on the market. www.wayne-dalton.com

Royal Launches New Trim

In November, Royal Mouldings announced the Royal S4S Trimboard, a 100 percent cellular vinyl PVC product to be available in January 2009.

Offering advantages over other composite and wood boards, the S4S Trimboard eliminates the open-cell edges of traditional trim board, making every job quick and clean. Its True Square 90° extruded edges have a smooth four-sided finish with no exposed or dirty cell structure to sand, fill, or paint.

Royal S4S Trimboard is available in three standard thicknesses (5/8", 3/4", 1"), five standard widths (4", 6", 8", 10", 12"), standard 18' and custom lengths, and in Smooth/Smooth and reversible Woodgrain/Smooth finishes. Royal S4S Trimboard is ready to install and paintable. www.royalmouldings.com

Wayne-Dalton Adds Z-Wave Thermostat

In September, Wayne-Dalton introduced its new Z-Wave Thermostat, allowing homeowners to manage heating and cooling with the push of a button.

“The unit is easy to install, easy to use, and surprisingly affordable, making it a unique product that stands out in the relatively new arena of remote programmable thermostats,” says Jeff Franklin, executive vice president.

Its temperature control can be accessed through front panel buttons or remotely from any Z-Wave-enabled remote control, computer, or cell phone. The unit offers “green” energy conservation and normal preset temperatures.

Designed for easy installation, it is the only thermostat today that is fully compatible with every Z-Wave remote on the market. No special wiring or additional boxes are needed, and the component is compatible with over 90 percent of existing HVAC units. www.wayne-dalton.com

Janus Offers Movable Storage Structures

In September, Janus International introduced MASS, a new line of Movable Additional Storage Structures.

The structures are built on a 10' x 20' platform and can be configured in a variety of unit sizes to offer an economical way to add more storage space. MASS units include 26-gauge roll-up doors.

Units are movable with a 5,000 lb.-capacity forklift and can be prebuilt or constructed on-site. www.janusintl.com

Carlo Gavazzi Releases Variable Frequency Drives

In November, Carlo Gavazzi announced the release of its new range of variable-frequency drives, the Variflex2 RVEF Series. These compact AC-motor drives are designed for general-purpose motor applications from 0.25 to 3.0 HP and offer extra features and options.

The drives, easy to set up via touch pad or software, are available in two frame sizes. Internal thermal management allows side-by-side installation for temperatures up to 122 degrees F.

All drive functions are controlled by microprocessor technology, and all printed circuit boards are manufactured using fully automated surface mount technology. www.GavazziOnline.com

CEM Announces Fingerprint Card Reader

In September, CEM Systems announced the release of its S610f fingerprint card reader. Used with the CEM AC2000 range of security management systems, the S610f fingerprint reader controls access to restricted areas where an additional biometric layer of security is required.

Featuring a controller, advanced IP card reader, and single biometric solution, the S610f fingerprint reader meets the requirements for three-stage identity authentication (card, PIN, and biometric verification). www.cemsys.com

Linear Discontinues Older Models

In August, Linear announced that its AM/II, AE-1, and AE-2, available since 1996, will be discontinued because their key components are no longer available. Linear has notified its market partners of this change and assured them that Linear will continue to support replacement of the AM/II and internal components of the AE-1 and AE-2 for approximately seven years, depending upon availability.

For new installations, Linear recommends its next generation of telephone entry and access control products, the Plus series: AM3Plus, AE1000Plus, and AE2000Plus. www.linearcorp.com

Ironwood Introduces Steel Frame Doors and Gates

In September, Ironwood Doors, a manufacturer of custom wood garage doors and gates, introduced its new Steel Frame Doors and Gates Division.

The new doors and gates are available with powder-coated woodgrain finish. Vehicle gates include swing gates, sliding gates, or pocket gates. Pedestrian gates are made in single- or double-swing designs. www.ironwooddoors.com

PEOPLE

Duchossois Appoints Fealy to President and Chief Operating Officer

In September, Duchossois Industries, parent company of Chamberlain, announced the promotion of Robert Fealy to the newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Fealy most recently served as executive vice president and now oversees the operations of all Duchossois companies.

Fealy also serves on the board of directors and executive committee of Churchill Downs and the boards of Pella Corporation and Radeum. Prior to joining Duchossois, Fealy held several senior positions at Cummins Engine.

A graduate of the University of Cincinnati, he is a CPA and a member of The Economic Club of Chicago and the Executives’ Club of Chicago.

Raynor Names Territory Manager of the Year

In November, Raynor announced the company’s 2007 Territory Manager Excellence Awards, naming Charlie Bogle as Territory Manager of the Year. Bogle, whose territory covers northern California, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah, joined Raynor in 1982.

Steve Keller and Tim Smith were honored with Sales Excellence Awards, coming in as second and third, respectively. Keller has been with Raynor since 2005 and is responsible for sales in Kansas, Nebraska, and western Missouri. A Raynor employee since 2002, Smith covers Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.

Hörmann Flexon Adds National Sales Manager

In October, Hörmann Flexon announced the appointment of Peter Burnham as national sales manager. With 24 years of sales and management experience in the High Performance Door field, Burnham’s responsibilities will include domestic and international sales development. He resides in the Baltimore, Md., area.

Amarr Names Two National Account Managers

In November, Amarr announced the promotion of Dave Pavlechko and Matt Lyons to national account manager roles, focusing on retail business. Both have been managing Amarr’s retail in-store service program with Lowe’s and previously held positions of regional sales managers.

Pavlechko will be based out of Columbus, Ohio, and Lyons out of Atlanta, Ga., working with retail partners and installing dealers who service Amarr’s retail accounts.

Prior to joining Amarr in 2006, Pavlechko held the position of millwork department manager for Lowe’s in Columbus, Ohio. Lyons joined Amarr in 2005 from Reed Construction Group, where he was a sales manager and representative.

Cookson Appoints Regional Sales Manager

In November, Cookson announced that Don Tucker had been appointed to regional sales manager in the Mideast region.

Tucker comes to Cookson with extensive experience in the door industry, including being a territory sales manager for Wayne-Dalton. He majored in mechanical and industrial engineering at Kent State University. He is also a city councilman for Beach City, Ohio.

Janus Announces New Rolling Steel Engineer

In October, Janus announced the addition of Romulo Garay as engineer in the company’s rolling steel division.

Garay has more than 25 years in the rolling door industry. Past company positions include Cookson, Kinnear, and Alumatek-Pacific. He is a professional mechanical engineer with PE-registered status in Washington and California.

1st United Hires Regional Sales Manager

In September, 1st United Door Technologies announced the addition of Paul Nowak as the new Western region sales manager.

Nowak has 14 years of experience in the garage door industry and an extensive manufacturing background, most recently serving as the Western region sales manager for Arrow Tru-Line.

Janus Hires Regional Sales Manager

In September, Janus announced the addition of Steve Little as Northeast regional sales manager for the commercial/rolling steel division.

Little brings 25 years of door experience in customer service and sales in the dealer and manufacturer channels. He most recently served as district sales manager for Overhead Door.

New Regional Sales Manager Joins Hörmann

In November, Hörmann announced the hiring of Eric Schulz as regional sales manager for the Southeast. Schulz is experienced in the garage door industry in brand-building, account management, and warehouse/distribution management.

C.H.I. Hires Product Manager and Engineer

In November, C.H.I. Overhead Doors announced that Ross Scafidi had been named as the new commercial products manager, overseeing the development of commercial sectional and rolling steel doors. In his 30 years in the industry, Scafidi has dealt with products from swinging doors to rolling steel doors.

Jim Campbell has also joined C.H.I. as the senior lead engineer of wind-load products. Campbell brings seven years experience in the door business and 20 years of product design. He was also awarded a patent for his work on vertical reinforcement systems.

COMPANIES

Hörmann Gadco Becomes Hörmann

In November, Hörmann Gadco announced that it has changed its name to Hörmann, bringing the company in line with the global Hörmann brand.

“This is not a change in ownership, management, or personnel—the only thing that has changed is the name,” says Larry Campbell, vice president of sales and marketing. He adds that the company plans “a series of new product launches in the next few months.”

GADCO was acquired by Hörmann in 2006 and operated as Hörmann Gadco until now. Most products are manufactured in the United States, and the company continues to expand its U.S. production capacity.

Wayne-Dalton Restructures Pensacola Plant

In November, Wayne-Dalton announced plans to restructure its Pensacola garage door manufacturing plant, effective Jan. 16, 2009.

Many of the products currently produced in Pensacola will move to other Wayne-Dalton locations. Not affected are the garage door operator, Fabric Shield (storm protection), R&D departments, and the Regional Operations Center.

The unprecedented downturn in the housing industry and numerous economic factors have had a negative impact on the company, despite efforts to reduce costs. The company will help employees transition to a job at another Wayne-Dalton location or to another company.

Wayne-Dalton opened the Pensacola facility in 1985.

Kingspan Acquires MeTecno USA

In August, Kingspan, a leading manufacturer of sustainable products for the construction industry, announced it had acquired 100 percent of MeTecno, a holding company for the MeTecno U.S. businesses. The selling firm was MeTecno BV, a subsidiary of the MeTecno Group, a global manufacturer of composite sandwich panels.

Kingspan ASI manufactures the Max-R sectional door panels for commercial applications. This division is owned by Kingspan Insulated Panels.

MeTecno, operating under the ASI, API, and Benchmark brands, is the second largest manufacturer of composite sandwich panels in the U.S. market, operating from three sites in Florida, Ohio, and California.

Hörmann Renovates Headquarters

In November, Hörmann announced the completion of a major renovation of its headquarters in Montgomery, Ill.

This included an upgrade of the entire facility’s insulation for environmental sustainability throughout its operations. Other changes included new exterior siding in Hörmann blue, several comprehensive interior improvements, including new production machinery and an expanded sales network.

“This renovation has been planned for some time and we never considered postponing it, in spite of the present economic situation,” says Larry Campbell, Hörmann’s vice president of sales and marketing. “Hörmann always takes the long view—we’re continuing to invest in the future.”

Samco Ventures Into Russian Markets

In September, Samco Machinery announced new business in the emerging Russian market, focusing on construction and automotive markets.

With construction in Moscow at an all-time high, rollforming machinery is expected to play a critical role. With home construction growing steadily, Samco’s garage door rollforming equipmentfor garage door panels and tracks, supports the market needs.

Samco has been making rollformers for the garage door industry since the company started in 1972.

Jeld-Wen Showcases Sustainability at Greenbuild 2008

In November, Jeld-Wen featured its “multi-pronged approach to sustainable product innovation” at the 2008 Greenbuild International Conference and Expo.

Its showcased initiatives included Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certified wood products, including AuraLast wood trim for doors, windows, and garage doors. Featured products also included Energy Star qualified windows and exterior doors, doors made of juniper wood, and wood composite garage doors feature facings and trim boards made of recycled wood fiber.

With more manufacturing locations than any competitor, Jeld-Wen windows and doors can be designed and manufactured for specific regions, saving fuel and shipping costs.

Encon Participates in Gate Operator School

Encon’s training director, Tim Nordstrom, was one of 10 industry veterans to teach at the second annual Gate Operator Installation School (GOIS) held at the Tulsa Technology Center in Tulsa, Okla., Oct. 5-10, 2008.

“During one week, a person who has never installed an operator will learn how, and a person who has installed hundreds of operators will learn how to install one better,” says Nordstrom.

A maximum of 64 students were allowed to attend the five-day school. The school is the only one of its kind in the gate operator industry, offering hands-on experience and training on how to properly and safely install a gate operator.

This year, the American Fence Association-sponsored GOIS covered the following topics: UL 325, ASTM F2200, Safety, Types of Gates and Operators, Basics of Operators, Gate Operator Accessories, Gate Operator Installation, Electrical, and Vehicle Detectors.

The curriculum is structured around the Gate Operator Installer Certification exam, administered by the Institute of Door Dealer Education and Accreditation (IDEA). Students could take the certification test on the final day.

Amarr Hosts VIP Adventure in Puerto Vallarta

In November, Amarr dealers and Door Center managers winning Amarr’s eighth annual VIP Adventure spent four days in October enjoying the first class accommodations and activities at the all-inclusive Melia Resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

During this event, Amarr honored its dealers for their sales and marketing performance of the past fiscal year. Top awards for Dealer of The Year in 2008 were presented to Portones Garcia Mancillas (Mexico Dealer of the Year), Lonevaag Beslagfabrikk A/S of Norway (International Dealer of the Year), and Jaydor Company of Norristown, Pa. (U.S. Dealer of the Year).

Chamberlain Fingerprint Entry Wins Award

In September, Chamberlain announced its LiftMaster Fingerprint Keyless Entry had been recently honored by Hanley Wood’s Building Products Magazine and Ebuild.com for winning a Most Valuable Product Award (MVP).

To be considered for an MVP Award, products are judged on the value they provide to builders and remodelers in terms of quicker installation time, decrease in callbacks, reduction of waste, or helping the contractor’s business run more efficiently.

Wayne-Dalton Thermostat Wins Green Award

In September, Wayne-Dalton’s new Z-Wave Thermostat was named the “Greenest New Product” at the 2008 Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) Expo in Denver, Colo.

The new thermostat’s energy conservation feature improves energy savings through its “green” mode. The mode can be adjusted remotely without losing the energy efficiency that overriding a remoteless system commonly causes.

Amarr Wins Consumers Digest “Best Buys”

In its August issue, Consumers Digest awarded its “Best Buys” ratings to three models of Amarr’s Classica garage doors.

The Best Buy rating highlighted Amarr’s Classica 3000, 1000, and 2000 models. The award is given for products judged to be of the best quality and offered at the most reasonable price.

Consumers Digest writer Michael Chotiner says the Classica 3000 has “the most panel options” and a “better combination of rigidity, dent-resistance, and energy performance” among three-layer carriage house doors. Chotiner is a former editor for numerous building and home improvement publications.

1st United’s SteeLite Makes “Top 100 Products” List

In its November/December issue, Residential Design & Build Magazine designated 1st United Door Technologies’ SteeLite product line as one of the “Top 100 Products of the Year.”

The award is based on the magazine’s readership response. The SteeLite line has four exclusive design alternatives. Optional designer windows and decorative hardware are also available.

Wayne-Dalton Opener Named to “100 Best New Products”

In November, Wayne-Dalton’s ceiling-mounted prodrive garage door opener with Z-Wave technology was been named one of Professional Builder magazine’s “100 Best New Products” for 2008.

The award criteria include technological advances, product improvement, and nationwide availability. Products are judged in 10 different categories including exteriors, interiors, windows, and doors.

Raynor Fleet Design Wins Top Honors

In November, Raynor announced that its truck design had been honored by the National Private Truck Council and Commercial Carrier Journal as one of the “Top 5 Combination Units for 2007.”

The Raynor unit was selected for its graphics and design. The award has been presented since 1978 to recognize excellence in the design and use of commercial vehicle markings.

Wayne-Dalton Honored for Innovation

In September, Wayne-Dalton won first place in the garage door and garage door opener categories of the 2008 Home Improvement Executive Innovation Awards.

The award, recognizing unique and innovative products, is presented after the publication’s research staff reviews company Web sites, press releases, promotional materials, and articles published.

Wayne-Dalton Wins Achievement Awards

In September, Window & Door magazine recognized Wayne-Dalton as the recipient of two of its 2008 Crystal Achievement Awards.

Wayne-Dalton and VEKA Inc. won the Most Innovative Window Component award for Window Integrated Storm Protection (WISP). The two also won the award for Best Industry Web site for www.wispvinyl.com.

The WISP project is a joint venture using VEKA’s vinyl window and Wayne-Dalton’s garage doors, controls, and Fabric Shield to develop an automated window protection system, activated by cell phone.

C.H.I. Unveils Visualization Program

In October, C.H.I. Overhead Doors released a new sales tool, a door visualization program that allows homeowners to see how a C.H.I. garage door would enhance the curb appeal of their home.

The program requires a digital photo of the home. With the click of a few buttons, the homeowner can see many window and door options. Dealers can print a high-resolution before-and-after photo for the homeowner. The program was developed by RenoWorks.

Encon Hosts First CDO Seminar

In October, Encon Electronics collaborated with Chamberlain for a commercial door operator (CDO) seminar at Encon’s training facility in Hayward, Calif.

This was Encon’s first technical CDO seminar since Encon introduced its CDO product line in June. Dan Dombkowski, Chamberlain’s CDO marketing and sales manager, conducted the training for more than 40 Encon dealers.

“Even though this is not my field, the CDO seminar was well worth a day of missed work,” says attendee Jeff Welch of San Francisco Locksmith and Security.

“This seminar was a great way to expose our gate dealers to the commercial door operator industry,” says Zach Eichenberger, Encon’s sales manager.

Overhead Door Wins for a Good Cause

Caption: Front row (from left): Tom Sims, Mark Wittmann, Bill Paine. Back row: Joe Kuntz, Mark Sendar, Beth Somplatsky-Martori, Chris Manolis, Jason Moreno.

In May 2008, Overhead Door was named Rookie Team of the Year in the Sam’s Club MS 150, hosted by the Lone Star Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Overhead Door was one of 18 rookie teams in the two-day bike tour benefiting research to find the cause, cure, and treatment of MS.

The award was based on the average amount raised per rider, the size of the team, active communication, and the total amount raised. Overhead Door raised an average of $640 per person, with 23 members on its team, to total $15,000.

The event began in Frisco, Texas, and ended in Fort Worth, Texas, attracting 3,200 riders and raising $2.4 million.

1st United Employees Join Race for the Cure

In October, 1st United Door Technologies employees participated in the 16th Annual Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure. This is their second year to participate.

The race raises funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer. Last year’s event had 37,000 participants and raised $1.9 million. Komen has invested over $1 billion in breast cancer research and outreach programs.

U.S. Door Participates in “Extreme Makeover” Project

Caption: From left: Joe Burkhalter and Tony Domicolo of U.S. Door.

On Nov. 2, a rolling door from U.S. Door & Building Components was included on a new boxing gym located behind a new home featured on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”

U.S. Door donated a 16' x 8' Model 626 insulated rolling door and a Gliderol motor operator. The door was ordered with a galvalume finish to match the exterior of the gym. The new gym includes the latest exercise equipment and a full-size boxing ring.

Summit Door Featured on “This Old House”

In late November, two Summit Door garage doors were seen on a home on “This Old House.” The project, located in Weston, Mass., called for an eco-friendly home with the look and feel of an old barn.

Summit Door fabricated two unique garage doors. Made of western red cedar, the doors were customized with trim and details on the exterior and the interior, with nylon rollers and powder-coated track and hardware.

Clopay Supports “Extreme Makeover”

Caption: The Akers’ home in suburban Cincinnati now features a Clopay Avante Collection garage door.

Clopay partnered with two of its dealers this fall, A-E Door in Cincinnati and Barrett Door Service in Eaton Rapids, Mich., to provide new designer garage doors for two homes on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”

In the Ohio project, the series’ designers chose a contemporary glass and aluminum door from the Avante Collection for a home in the Cincinnati suburb of West Chester. In Michigan, Barrett Door installed a Coachman Collection steel carriage house door with composite overlays on a new home outside of East Lansing, Mich.

Clopay has donated garage doors for several projects on the TV series since it first aired in 2004.

Encon Hosts Ninth Golf Tournament

In August, Encon Electronics hosted its ninth annual golf tournament in Tracy, Calif., attended by 86 dealers, manufacturer representatives, and guests. Manufacturers donated 35 raffle prizes including Wii game consoles, DeWalt tools, gift cards, electronic devices, wine cases, and outdoor living packages.

Encon CEO Betty Mullin says, “We created this tournament as a thank you to all our customers for their loyal support.”

Encon Electronics is a distributor of access control equipment, gate operators, and door operators.

Garaga Holds Contest During Safety Month

Caption: Jean-François Morin, Garaga marketing director, and Sylvie Roy of Couture Aluminum present bicycle prize to Élodie Gauthier.

During June, Garage Door Safety Month, Garaga held a coloring contest for children, promoted through Garaga dealers and local media. The drawing was also printable from Garaga’s Web site.

After receiving hundreds of drawings, Garaga randomly drew two winners: 7-year-old Margo Leblanc from Bouctouche, New Brunswick, and 7-year-old Élodie Gauthier from St-Georges, Quebec.

The contest also spread safety messages about the proper use of garage doors.

INDUSTRY

Precoat Metals Hosts Tour of Coating Line

Caption: From left: Ted Billman of Billman & Associates; Kelly Garbin, Matt Murphy, and Vic Locastro of Precoat; Mike Gambill of Missouri Door Wholesalers; Larry Peterson of Domino Engineering; Randy Schmitt of All Purpose Door; Tim Schlueter and Jack Kaelber of Martin Door; Mark Michl of All Purpose Door.

On Nov. 11, Precoat Metals opened the doors of its coil coating line in Granite City, Ill., to a meeting of the St. Louis chapter of the Central States Door Dealer Association (CSDDA). The tour included a presentation about Precoat Metals and an explanation of the details of a coil coating line that produces the painted steel for typical garage door panels.

The plant tour covered every step of the coating line from beginning to end. The tour was expected to take only 90 minutes, but attendee interest extended the tour for two additional hours.

“The actual coating line was most impressive,” says Randy Schmitt, CSDDA St. Louis chapter president. “To actually see a steel coil, at 750 feet per minute, go from a raw coil of steel to a coated coil, ready for shipment, was unbelievable.”

The CSDDA is an active association with three chapters holding regular meetings in three locations throughout the year.

Mock Trial Returns to FenceTech

The mock trial involving an automated vehicular gate incident will return to the American Fence Association’s FenceTech 2009 in New Orleans. The presentation will take place on Jan. 16 at 8:00 a.m.

The mock trial format, which has been an effective presentation at the International Door Association Expo and at FenceTech, demonstrates how a legal matter can affect manufacturers, dealers, and installers in the automated vehicular gate industry.

TECHNICAL

DASMA Technical Forum Grows

DASMA’s Eighth Annual Technical Forum, held Oct. 20-23, in Kansas City, attracted nearly 60 attendees and a record 11 speakers.

Speakers and subjects included the following:
• Dave Collins, AIA, on code history affecting fire-resistive building products
• Rick Thornberry, code consultant, on balanced fire-protection activities
• Jay Woodward, International Code Council, on accessibility and self-storage facilities
• Tom Wadsworth, Door & Access Systems editor, on writing technical articles
• Ted Berman, Florida product approval contractor, on the Florida product approval process
• Jenny Bloomfield, U.S. Green Building Council, on green building and LEED activities
• Rita Swearingen, International Code Council, on the new green building standard
• Mike Fischer, The Kellen Company, on the Energy Star program
• Naomi Angel, DASMA legal counsel, on legalities associated with code adoption and enforcement
• Scott Nischik, Akzo Nobel, on finishing wood garage doors
• Dan Wise, Architectural Testing Inc., on administering the new DASMA voluntary garage door certification program

In addition to these presentations, several DASMA committees also held meetings: the Rolling Sheet Door Committee, Rolling Door Division, High Performance Door Division, and Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee.

“The speakers provided a wealth of relevant material for DASMA to continue to advance its mission,” says Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director. He adds that seminar content was also discussed at the various meetings, resulting in new projects and new activities for ongoing projects.

DASMA to Present Building Code Seminar to CSDDA

On Feb. 6, 2009, DASMA Technical Director Joe Hetzel will be joined by Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee chair Pat Hunter of C.H.I. Overhead Doors in presenting a building-code-based seminar for the Central States Door Dealers Association (CSDDA) Regional Conference in St. Charles, Mo.

The seminar will provide dealers with an overview on wind loads; a background on code development, adoption, and enforcement; and an update on wind-load-related activities in the central states.

For more information on this CSDDA event, contact Ted Billman at 630-548-5491 or bldgproducts@aol.com.

NFRC Publishes New Procedures for Determining Thermal Performance Values

At its fall meeting in Jacksonville, Fla., the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) membership approved procedures for simulating and validating garage door and rolling door U-factors. The procedures have been incorporated into the 2004 versions of NFRC documents 100 (simulation standard) and 102 (validation testing standard).

The new procedures will allow garage door and rolling door manufacturers to determine U-factors for multiple sizes of a particular door model without extensive testing. NFRC standards are currently referenced in building and energy codes adopted across the United States.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says that this accomplishment is a culmination of nearly five years of activities, including four years of research conducted by both DASMA and ASHRAE and a year’s worth of balloting within NFRC.

“NFRC members who helped in the process were impressed at the efficiency of the effort and the quality of the results,” says Hetzel. He adds that ongoing research is expected to further refine the provisions.

DASMA to Develop Garage Door Cable Standard

In October, the DASMA Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee agreed to begin development of a standard for garage door cable. DASMA Associate Division members are expected to lead the effort in drafting provisions addressing such subjects as tensile strength, endurance, and end strength.

Jerry Schutt of Arrow Tru-Line, a participant in the subcommittee formed to develop the standard, says that a DASMA standard would help both the cable suppliers and the door manufacturers.

He says, “We will be reviewing a lot of existing information from various sources to bring consistency of testing and specifying to the industry.”

DASMA Clarifies R-values

At its October 2008 meeting, the Commercial & Residential Garage Door Technical Committee finalized changes to TDS 163, now titled “R-value and U-factor as Applied to a Residential or Commercial Garage Door.” The changes further clarify the basis behind thermal performance values that are receiving increasing market and code-related attention.

New language clarifies the difference between R-value and U-factor, testing versus calculated values, and the basis behind insulation values. Pat Hunter, committee chair, says, “The revised TDS now has technical information that can be more effectively used in today’s energy-conscious marketplace.”

The revised Technical Data Sheet can be found at www.dasma.com.

DASMA Document to Address “Green Building”

To address growing interest in “green buildings,” DASMA is now developing a Technical Data Sheet explaining the relationship of industry products to the various U.S. green building programs. The Technical Data Sheet will provide guidance to design professionals, code officials, builders, contractors, and dealers.

Jay Johnson, DASMA staff member and a LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) Accredited Professional, will lead the effort. “DASMA member products have the ability to contribute to a number of green building programs,” he says.

Green building programs may be derived from Green Building Rating Systems, Standards, Certifications, or Material Evaluation Services. The Technical Data Sheet will address information needed in these programs, such as U-factors, post-consumer and pre-consumer recyclable content, regional materials locations, low volatile organic content (VOC) limits, low-formaldehyde products, and others.

High-Wind Standard Published

After several years of work, ICC 600 – 2008 (Standard for Residential Construction in High-Wind Regions) was published in fall 2008 and will be referenced in the 2009 International Residential Code. The standard applies in areas with a design wind speed of 100 mph or greater.

A garage door wind-load chart, based on TDS 155, is included, along with references to ANSI/DASMA 108 (Wind Load Test Standard) and ANSI/DASMA 115 (Windborne Debris Resistance Test Standard).

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, coordinated these inclusions with the International Code Council. He says, “This is another case of DASMA developing industry documents ahead of the broader need for them.”