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...

  While things are improving from just one year ago, Americans are still spending more time than ever at home. Since the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 42 percent of Americans are currently working from home full-time, according to research by Stanford University . Remote work is likely to remain a permanent part of our labor landscape.  With all that extra time spent at home, you may have noticed additional home improvement projects that need to be completed. Home improvement projects can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s easy to put off some projects - including replacing your old, worn-out windows. But how do you know when it’s necessary to replace your windows? Here are some tell-tale signs: Outside noise. If you’re constantly hearing the sounds of traffic or your neighbors, chances are your windows currently provide little protection from outside noise. New double-pane replacement windows insulated with Argon gas can help decrease the so...

  Have you found yourself looking at your home and thinking, “Should I replace my windows?” If not, you should. According to the National Association of Realtors , replacement windows are one of the latest trends in home improvement. Windows can help your home become more energy-efficient, attractive, and comfortable. Plus, new windows are one of the best and simplest ways to update your home! Still not convinced? Here are some reasons to consider upgrading your windows: Improved aesthetics. One of the first things people notice about your home is the windows. Older, outdated, or unattractive windows are not as aesthetically pleasing to guests or potentially homebuyers (if your house is on the market). Replacing your windows can significantly enhance the curb appeal. Lower maintenance. Replacement windows require fewer care requirements than older windows. Plus, new windows are easier to clean - the tilt-in feature allows you to clean your wind...

  From hurricanes to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, Florida is no stranger to extreme weather. The most recent storm to significantly impact the area was Hurricane Irma in 2017. Irma, landing in Tampa as a Category 2, brought damaging, roof-ripping winds, widespread power outages, and gushing floodwaters to our area. The storm ranks as one of the strongest and costliest hurricanes to hit the Atlantic.  High wind gusts (60-90 mph) will definitely devastate your windows if you are unprepared; it doesn’t take much to cause damage to property. A heavy thunderstorm can compromise your property, especially if your windows aren’t in great shape.  With hurricane season soon upon us (June 1 - November 30, 2021), here are are things you can do at property prepare your windows and home  to withstand the upcoming storms:  Install Impact Windows The best way to prepare your windows for hurricane season is to replace them with impact windows . If you have an old...