The Window Depot

According to a report from the National Association of Home Builders , there is a material shortage for many types of home-improvement products. While the lumber supply has been severely affected, there is also a shortage of materials for replacement windows and vinyl siding. Nearly half of the remodelers in the report stated that they have experienced “some shortage” in window and door materials.  COVID-19 and its lingering effects are the main reasons behind the shortage of vinyl and other building materials. Many manufacturing plants worldwide have limited manpower for material production . Due to lack of manpower, material production decreased. However, since people found themselves spending more time in their homes in 2020, they discovered parts of their homes that needed upgrades and improvements. Replacement windows were among the most popular upgrades for the following reasons: A high return on investment (ROI) compared to other home improvement projects. New windows have ...

Even though the economy is opening back up and we are slowly returning to some form of “normal,” it’s still too early to say that the pandemic is over. The post-COVID workplace presents unique challenges for manufacturing environments. Worldwide businesses and consumers alike rely on a strong supply chain and timely delivery of essential materials.  The question is, how can manufacturers remain open and be productive while still focusing on employee safety?  Since the post-COVID precautions aren’t going away anytime soon, here is what the manufacturing sector is doing to keep employee health and safety a top priority: Provide protective products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends cleaning all shared or public surfaces before each use including workstations, breakrooms, and restrooms. Per CDC guidelines, manufacturing facilities must keep these essentials on hand: Disposable masks and gloves Disinfecting wipes Hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or g...

  When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted life as we knew it, all industries were affected including the construction industry. However, with the current material and supply situation, the building industry may have had it simpler in 2020.    While vaccines and reopening workplaces have replaced physically distancing and plant shutdowns, the construction industry is grappling with unprecedented material shortages and other lingering COVID-related issues. These shortages result in added stress on the construction industry - especially those working in windows and new construction.   According to the Associated General Contractors of America , the shortage of raw materials has affected a variety of construction materials across all disciplines. While COVID-related issues contributed to rising raw materials prices and longer lead times, mother nature also played a pivotal role. In February 2021, the ice storms that plagued Texas also derailed work at resin-producing petro...

  As the economy reopens post-pandemic and e-commerce grows at a record pace, there is an unexpected concern voiced by nearly everyone in the building and materials industry - the nationwide truck driver storage.    According to the American Trucking Association , there is a shortage of nearly 50,000 truckers in the United States. What does this mean for the industry and consumers? For manufacturers, suppliers, and installers, it means that material costs will rise, and delays will become the exception rather than the norm. For the consumer, it means installation and labor costs will likely increase, and you may have to wait longer to get your new windows.    Why is the truck driver shortage happening? Three main factors are causing this crisis are: The average age of truck drivers is increasing. This means many drivers are retiring or soon-to-be retiring. There aren’t enough younger people interested in truck driving as a career, thus there aren't enough drive...