Today, there are more ways than ever to optimize your manufacturing processes. And there are more reasons than ever why such changes are necessary. In an environment where you’re continuously challenged to do more with less, no one can afford to sit around without being proactive. This can seem daunting. But tackling today’s challenges doesn’t […]

You probably don’t need me to tell you that alternative color options for vinyl windows are very in. Whether it’s the dark framing that characterizes the modern farmhouse aesthetic or other trending colors, keeping up with today’s consumer demands requires the addition of color to your product offerings. No matter the business strategy you pursue […]

More and more, high-speed processing lines for insulating glass (IG) are being installed around the country every month. And that’s not likely to stop any time soon. In fact, your shop floor may be next. I’ve written plenty in this space about how getting the most from an investment in automated production equipment requires more […]

Here’s a glaring statistic: Eighteen percent of the 1,176,340 nonfatal work injuries resulting in days away from work in 2020 were related to slips, trips and falls, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In many cases, they’re the result of some sort of spillage or debris that’s been left on the floor. […]

There’s a lot on the line for door and window manufacturers in 2023. Consistency of quality, unit performance once installed in the field and your reputation as a manufacturer all depend on successful shop floor operations. How best to achieve that success? Manufacturing reliable, quality door and window units is all about following repeatable and […]

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 […]

If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ve probably seen some themes emerge over the past year. We’ve talked plenty about the ways in which automated technology can elevate your operations in terms of production speed, quality and consistency. We’ve likewise spent a lot of time focused on how you can meet changing demands […]

The latest cover of Door & Window Market ([DWM]) magazine didn’t mince words regarding ENERGY STAR 7.0: “It’s go time.” The new criteria for the prestigious EPA label will hit in just about a year, and the significant changes for U-factors and solar heat gain coefficients (SHGCs) will be driving manufacturers to make major alterations […]

I write a lot in this space about strategy on the plant floor and different theories on how plant managers can effect positive change to their everyday operations. But whether it’s prioritizing product quality, identifying opportunities for automation or staying organized, eventually the time comes to put theory into practice. And that brings us to […]

The fall trade show season will kick off in the next few months and continue through November. Any fenestration professional reading this likely has a few of these dates circled on their calendar. And for good reason—it’s a prime opportunity to see some of today’s most advanced window and door technology, and to consider the […]