There are two major parts to the changes in the ENERGY STAR Windows & Doors program that will occur on January 4, 2010.  The first change has to do with the four climate zones.  The borders of each zone have moved.  It’s important for you to know which zone you reside in. You can see the new map on the ENERGY STAR website (www.energystar.gov). It features a zip code lookup tool to help you find your area.

The other major change is an increase in thermal performance requirements—in the U-value and Solar Heat Gain values that products must achieve to qualify. 

So how will the new performance requirements affect you if you’re considering Gorell windows for your home?  If you purchase Eco Master or any of our triple-glass systems, there will be no change.  All of these high-performance glass systems will still qualify in all zones.

If you are considering AC Master, it will depend on which products you purchase and in which zone you live.  Some will qualify, but not all. Contact your Gorell dealer to determine which products still qualify with AC Master.

Starting on 1/1/10, Gorell’s laminated glass systems will incorporate our SolarControl Max Low-E—to ensure that every Gorell laminated glass system qualifies in all ENERGY STAR climate zones. 

For additional information on the new 2010 ENERGY STAR criteria, visit the ENERGY STAR web site at www.energystar.gov, or contact your local Gorell dealer.

When Gorell Windows and Doors was started 15 years ago, it was classified as a start up business or small business.  I was doing some research and found that 50% of small business fail within the first year.  After 10 years, only 29% of start up business are still around.  After 15 years of being in business, Gorell has certainly defied the odds.

Gorell continues to carve its own path in the industry.  When many window companies are laying off or cutting back on their product offerings, Gorell is actually in a hiring mode as well as expanding its breadth of product offering. 

Wayne Gorell, who has been in this busines for 40+ years, acknowledges the 15 year anniversary by saying this.  'According to industry publication sources, there are over 6000 window companies in the United States, of which, approximately 2000 go out of business every year, and about 2000 more start up every year.  Gorell has not only weathered different economic storms over the past 15 years, but we have continued to expand.'

Gorell continues to be innovative by introducing more product offerings than any other company in the industry.  Gorell recently kicked off a new glass package called Eco Master available exclusively on its 5100 series.  Gorell will also be making the Better Vue screen standard on all its products, July 1st.  In addition, over the past year, Gorell has introduced new energy efficient glass packages, an unlimited amount of exterior color options, and newly designed products.

Gorell has won the National Energy Star Partner of the Year a record six consecutive times and has been named the National Sustained Excellence Energy Star Partner a record four consecutive times.  In addition, Gorell was the first vinyl window company to have its products Green Seal certified.

After 15 years, Wayne Gorell says he isn't ready to rest.  He is continuing to make his mark on the industry by setting even higher standards and expectations for windows being manufactured across the United States.

Gorell introduced mini blinds to its option offering about a year ago so it can hardly be considered a brand new option, but it can be considered a very popular option.  More and more people have been choosing blinds between the glass to help reduce heat and improve their home aesthetics.  Gorell Vinyl Windows are more than just energy efficient, they offer terrific options such as mini blinds to enhance your home's beauty as well.  The mini blinds are available in all vinyl products.  The lift and tilt option is available in the patio door, and tilt only is available also in the patio door but the other window products as well.  Stay tuned for some more new options!

With the advancement in vinyl extrusion technology, vinyl windows do not need to be limited anymore in regards to exterior colors.  Gorell has eight 'standard' exterior colors available now, and Gorell can do any custom color you would want or imagine.  This option has become so popular that Gorell now is producing the exterior colors in house.  This allows the lead times on this option to be cut down dramatically.