Since the Quanex Technical Services team started writing this blog, our goal has always been a simple one: To provide you with practical advice you can use and apply on your shop floor today.

We write these posts based on challenges our customers encounter on a regular basis. Oftentimes, our tips come directly from a specific issue we’ve helped a customer overcome. When you read this blog, you’re not just learning from us—you’re learning from your peers in the fenestration industry, as we collectively seek mutual success. And I hope by providing you with these insights, we’ve helped you in at least some small way throughout the past year.

And with that in mind, today’s tip is something a little different. As we look toward 2023, I thought I’d collect a few of my favorite tips we’ve provided throughout 2022. Because I believe these tips remain as relevant as ever, and I hope you can use them now and in the future. See you in 2023!

Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.

Whether it’s prioritizing product quality, identifying opportunities for automation or staying organized, eventually the time comes to put theory into practice. The key is being unafraid to tweak your operations as needed to get the most from your plant operations. Ask questions you might not have the immediate answers to. Move things around. Approach it all with a continuous improvement mindset.
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Sow the seeds of expertise today.

Data shows that the number of retirees among the U.S. population has risen dramatically over the past few years. This is more than simple turnover—as these folks exit the workforce, they take with them a wealth of knowledge that isn’t easily replaced. That’s why arming your teams with a greater depth of knowledge on proper manufacturing techniques for your window and door systems is important.
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Consider the implications for your manufacturing process.

The new criteria for the prestigious ENERGY STAR® label are anticipated to hit in 2023, and the significant changes for U-factors and solar heat gain coefficients (SHGCs) will be driving manufacturers to make major alterations to their ENERGY STAR systems. When making changes, consider exploring options that won’t complicate your manufacturing process.
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Don’t let maintenance lapses compromise your quality.

Production downtime is likely considered the biggest problem that can arise as a result of maintenance lapses. A machine breaks down, and you’re stuck fixing it instead of building more units while dollars fly out the window. However, smaller maintenance issues may compromise the quality of your products before they cause major downtime.
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