Pella struts its wood stuff as journalists traipse through Iowa plant
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A Pella employee builds a window at the company's massive 1.7 million sq. ft. facility.
PELLA, Iowa - Following the largest wood window launch in its history and the acquisition of Reilly Windows, Pell Windows & Doors rolls out the red carpet for journalists.
 
The door and window manufacturing giant, known for its high-quality window and door products and lean manufacturing process, took a group of editors on a tour of their 1.7 million square foot manufacturing space and test lab. Editors also saw presentations on the company's new products, sustainable efforts, and long history. 
 
 
New in wood products is the company's improved Architect Series of contemporary windows and patio doors. The biggest launch in Pella company history, Pella says the Architect Series delivers beauty and performance with a minimalist design and high energy efficiency. Architect is offered in Mahogany, Alder, Douglas Fir, Pine, White Oak, Cherry, Red Oak and Maple.
 
Despite an abundance of wood offerings, Pella said less than 8 percent of its customers want real wood, with Boston being the primary market for historic purposes. It said alternative materials that resemble wood are trending.
 

Pella has entered several new markets within the last few years by making key acquisitions. Serving the ultra-high-end market, the Pella Crafted Luxury collection of windows and doors includes offerings from Reilly Windows & Doors (acquired August 1, 2016), Grabill Inc. (acquired in April 2015), and the company's own Architect Series. Reilly and Grabill design and install custom windows and doors for ultra-high-end properties.

A project by Reilly Windows & Doors completed July, 16.
 
Pella also owns EFCO Corp., who manufacturers windows and entrance systems for commercial markets. It's latest work: the Brooklyn Health Center. 
 
Photo: Tectonic
 
 
With over 6,000 employees, 10 manufacturing facilities, and 200 window and door showrooms, the company isn't expecting to slow down any time soon.
 
 
 
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About the author
Robert Dalheim

Robert Dalheim is an editor at the Woodworking Network. Along with publishing online news articles, he writes feature stories for the FDMC print publication. He can be reached at [email protected].