Sep 13 2006
Bridgewater Wholesalers Inc. (BWI) has become the first MasoniteR distributor in the country to earn the ENERGY STARR label for its steel and fiberglass exterior doors.
Gerry Cooper of BWI made the announcement, explaining the significance of the designation. "Now customers can be assured that the Masonite steel and fiberglass doors they buy through BWI meet the highest energy efficiency standards, while offering potential cost savings, and protecting the environment at the same time."
For a product to earn the ENERGY STAR label it must meet strict energy guidelines set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The approval process requires rigorous testing in conjunction with the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which involves computer simulation and physical product testing to determine energy performance data, namely the product's U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.
Additionally, BWI has to maintain consistent quality assurance documentation, practices and procedures. These range from inspections of incoming raw materials and component parts, through production, and final product inspection prior to distribution, all monitored by a third party to ensure ongoing compliance with NFRC and ENERGY STAR requirements.
One of the main drivers behind consumer demand for ENERGY STAR-labeled products is the potential tax savings and rebate opportunities energy-efficient products offer. As Cooper explained, "This creates an opportunity for our dealers to save their customers real dollars. It's not only a win for the end user, but it also makes the independent retailers we serve that much more valuable to their regional clientele."
Cooper adds, "The strict quality controls and product requirements of the ENERGY STAR program also gives our dealers confidence that they are selling products that meet the highest quality and energy-efficiency standards."
When asked what motivated the BWI initiative in this area, Cooper pointed to BWI's overall service philosophy. "BWI is continuously monitoring consumer preferences. Saving money and conserving energy are topics of growing concern and awareness."
In order to support its involvement with the ENERGY STAR program, BWI hosts regular training seminars to educate retailers and professional builders about the unique advantages of ENERGY STAR labeled products. The company also makes use of a mobile showroom, a large 24' long trailer, configured with numerous hinges to mount and display a full range of steel and fiberglass exterior doors. The trailer allows for simple transportation, while the interior setup enables visitors to easily walk through, touch and feel a wide variety of door styles.