As usual, as we approach the end of another year, you think back on all that happened this year, and look forward to what you expect to happen in the coming year. For the replacement window industry, 2010 was a milestone of a year. There was unquestionably more government involvement in our industry than ever before. Since the replacement window industry began in the mid sixties, when I started in the industry, I can say that with total confidence.

It was a very difficult year, but ending on a very strong note, with a big part of the strong finish due to the expiring Energy Tax Credit 25c legislation. Interestingly, the replacement window industry actually started into this recession late in 2006 well before most businesses saw any problems at all. Business got steadily more challenging through all of 2008, and has been very slowly recovering from that bottom.

Next year should be much better for everyone, but especially for the home improvement and replacement window industry. The economy is recovering. The talk now is that retail sales this Christmas season, if not record breaking, will at least be excellent and the best we’ve seen for many years. This fact alone says average consumers are again spending money.

Now apply that information to housing. Prices have bottomed but the market hasn’t loosened up at all. Houses just are not selling at normal rates so most people are staying put, and many will likely decide to improve what they have rather than try to buy something new. The best part of this is highly efficient replacement windows are a great investment. They make you more comfortable in your home. They save you money on your energy bills that translates into the country saving energy, huge quantities of energy.

High quality energy efficient replacement windows improve the appearance of your home and have been proven to be one of the best home improvement projects to recoup your investment in a short period of time. That really means you are paying for replacement windows whether or not you buy them with your higher energy bills. Reduce your bills, save energy, improve the value of your home, feel more comfortable in your home year round, make your home more beautiful, and help the country significantly reduce the need for foreign energy – WOW – a win – win – win – win – win – win – win investment.

As far as what 2011 will be like, any year that starts out January first as 1111, has to be a winner.