COLUMBUS, OHIO – Following more than a year of housing market recovery, Mark Savan, president of Therma-Tru Doors and Simonton Windows, sees 2014 as a year where the companies are well positioned to meet consumer needs by producing quality products in a timely manner and offering strong service at all customer levels.

"Our focus is on meeting the desires of everyone who 'touches' our products, from distributors to building industry professionals to homeowners," says Savan. "For 2014 we will continue our focus on marketing and training support for professionals and on education related to product knowledge for consumers."

Savan reports that providing a wide variety of door styles and selections is important to the end purchaser of doors. For windows, energy efficiency elements remain a critical desire because so many homeowners are continually looking for quality windows that help lower energy costs in the home.

"We feel our companies are the premier brands in their respective markets," says Savan. "We are very confident that if we are in a customer's consideration mindset we will ultimately be regarded as their best purchasing decision."

Consumer Perspective

In 2013 the housing market recovery saw consumers' willingness to invest back into their homes, while value still played an important role.

"There appears to be a balance that consumers are looking for between performance and price in the building products they're purchasing, rather than just price playing a major role in product decisions," says Savan. "A noticeable change we've seen is that today's consumers appear more educated about their window and door options than ever before.

"A consistent theme we hear from dealers and contractors is that consumers are coming to them 'pre-loaded' with questions about products and options. We believe the Internet has provided easy access to product information for consumers and that they're investing substantial time in product research before approaching their contractors."

How does the advanced knowledge level of consumers impact the selling/buying relationship between homeowners and building professionals? According to Savan, fast-access to product information on the Internet is changing consumer expectations of their shopping experience.

"Product information --- including pricing --- is nearly ubiquitous now, so old-school selling techniques are becoming less and less effective," says Savan. "Building industry professionals should expect more knowledgeable customers in the future and be ready to answer their questions and have educated discussions with consumers."

Builder and Remodeler Perspective

To support the sales process for builders, remodelers and contractors, Therma-Tru and Simonton will continue to offer programs and training to building industry professionals.

"We have made investments over the past several years that allow us to more effectively communicate with our customers --- and our customers' customers," says Savan. "As an example, the Simonton ProNetwork® program encourages both contractors and dealers purchasing our products through distribution to receive training, product information and sales tools. This efficient program has created a stronger relationship between Simonton and our customers.

"At Therma-Tru, our new Tru-Distinction™ Dealer Program allows us to create a 'win-win partnership' with select dealers operating superior showrooms. Both of these programs have had great success in the marketplace and we plan to continue to invest in them in 2014."

About Therma-Tru

Therma-Tru is the nation’s leading manufacturer and most preferred brand of entryway doors. Founded in 1962, Therma-Tru pioneered the fiberglass entry door industry, and today offers a complete portfolio of entry and patio door system solutions, including decorative glass doorlites, sidelites and transoms, and door components. The company also offers low-maintenance Fypon® urethane and PVC products. Headquartered in Maumee, Ohio, Therma-Tru is part of Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. (NYSE: FBHS). For more information, visit www.thermatru.com, www.fypon.com or call (800) 537-8827.

About Simonton Windows

Simonton Windows has been ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Windows and Doors, Four Years in a Row. Tied in 2013.” by J.D. Power and Associates. Simonton produces ENERGY STAR® qualified vinyl replacement and new construction windows and doors, including a line of impact-resistant products.

Simonton was also ranked #1 in quality in the 2013, 2009, 2007, 2002 and 1998 Brand Use Studies sponsored by Builder magazine and has won three Best In Class Awards administered by LBM Journal Research Institute.

Founded in 1946, Simonton’s hallmark has been to deliver the industry’s shortest, most dependable lead-times. Part of Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. (NYSE: FBHS), Simonton delivers award-recognized products to key markets throughout the 48 continental United States and North America. Simonton is a Founding Sponsor of The Weather Museum, a Lifetime Founding Sponsor of the Lead Safe America Foundation, and a supporter of Homes for Our Troops. For information, call (800) SIMONTON (1-800-746-6686) or visit www.simonton.com.

Source: Simonton Windows