Visions Windows and Doors Makes Solo DebutPremium Vinyl Brand Establishes Dedicated Dealer Network and Business Unit

    MEDFORD, Wis. - December 21, 2006 - Weather Shield® Windows & Doors announced today the establishment of Visions® Windows & Doors, a stand-alone premium vinyl brand of windows and patio doors. The announcement marks the creation of a dedicated dealer network for the vinyl brand, separate from the Weather Shield product line, and a business unit within the company solely focused on vinyl product development, marketing and sales.

    Visions windows and patio doors are known for their premium quality and durability.

    "Visions windows and patio doors are known for their premium quality and durability," said Bob Eckert, director of marketing for Weather Shield Windows & Doors. "As a separate brand, Visions will capitalize on this established reputation and brand name equity through its own diverse network of dealers specializing in vinyl products."

    Visions will be supported by a stand-alone strategic business unit that includes marketing, customer service, sales and engineering resources. The business unit will be led by Ernie DeBacco, Visions national sales manager, and a brand manager to be named soon. The company is establishing the brand's infrastructure and will make its official debut at the 2007 International Builders Show in February.

    "Vinyl products comprise about 50 percent of window and door sales today," said Mark Schield, vice president of Weather Shield. "Selling vinyl windows is different than selling wood windows. It's a different mindset, a different game. We're looking for top quality dealers who will embrace vinyl products the way that so many of our existing dealers have embraced wood product sales." Visions currently has dealers in the 48 contiguous states and will be continuously expanding its dealer network.

    About Visions Products
    Visions products, when sold under the Weather Shield brand, consistently ranked among the top vinyl window and door products in quality and brand familiarity, according to 2006 research conducted by Builder magazine.

    Visions products are available in the 4000 Impact, 4000, 3000 and 1000 Series. Each offers a traditional wood window look in durable, low-maintenance vinyl windows. The multi-chambered frame and sash provide insulating pockets that minimize heat and cold transference through the windows, while fusion-welded corners further enhance the products' durability and reliability. The extruded frame is comprised of uPVC vinyl with high impact acrylic modifiers and UV stabilizers that strengthen the products and protect against color fading. An integral nailing fin aids in proper installation and reinforces the structural integrity of the products.

    Visions windows and patio doors are available in white, tan and cameo, with interior trim options of vinyl, wood and cellular PVC. Standard glazing is 3/4-inch insulated glass with a Real Warm Edge Spacer system; a number of other glazing options are available to improve energy efficiency, including Low E2, and on Visions 3000 and 4000 products, Zo-e-shield 5 and 6. Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) grilles, Grilles between the Glass (GBG) and Optically Divided Lites (ODL) can be added to any Visions product to add depth and character to a home's interior and exterior design.

    Visions 4000/Visions 4000 Impact
    Visions 4000 premium vinyl window line offers an historically accurate wood window look with state-of-the-art engineering. Visions 4000 is available in single hung, sliding and direct set units, all with a 4-9/16" jamb. These incredibly strong, no-maintenance vinyl windows are available in 1/8" increments to fit nearly any new or existing rough opening. A wide assortment of options and accessories contribute to custom looks for any home. The slider windows offer sloped sills and internal weep systems that help shed water in the event of driving rain. Any of the Visions 4000 products are available in single glazed or insulated impact-resistant glazing.

    Visions 3000
    Visions 3000 products have sloped sills and stepped exterior frames to replicate traditional wood windows. The product line includes casement, awning, single slider and direct set windows; and single and double hung units in a variety of styles, including: cottage, oriel, eyebrow, picture combinations, and bay and bow units. Hinged and sliding patio doors round out the Visions 3000 product offering for a complete window and door package. The single and double hung units have easy-tilt sash, and smooth operating block-and-tackle balance systems, both of which deliver convenience in operation. The single and double hung and slider units' integral J-channel simplifies installation and allows siding to be installed snuggly against the windows. Attached brickmould on the single slider and single hung eliminate the need for brickmould to be applied on the job site. An interior finger lift on the single and double hung units is built into the windows, minimizing bulky hardware and allowing for cleaner sight lines. Floating 2-/4" jamb liners allow forgiveness for installation and for seasonal expansion and contraction.

    Visions 1000
    The Visions 1000 window line combines affordability and energy efficiency in single and double hung, slider and direct set units. Visions 1000 windows provide durability, performance and lasting beauty at a value price point. Visions 1000 products are designed to complement other Visions products in order to allow contractors to mix and match between Visions products.

    About Visions
    Visions Windows & Doors are premium vinyl windows and patio doors available through independent dealers nationwide. Born Tough™, Visions products are among the highest quality vinyl windows available.

    For more information on Weather Shield products, call 1-800-477-6808, or visit the company's Web site at www.weathershield.com.

    Editor Contact:
    Amy Lewis
    Media Relations Representative
    651-552-9826
    amy@renownmarketing.com

    Barbara Knight, PR Coordinator
    Weather Shield Windows & Doors
    1-800-222-2995 Ext. 3721
    bknight@weathershield.com