Americans are moving less frequently than ever, and that’s opening opportunities in remodeling, renovation and home improvement.

According to the Census Bureau, about 10 percent of Americans moved in 2009, the lowest number since World War II. In the postwar era, it’s been common for as many as 20 percent of Americans to relocate in a given year.

“With more consumers staying in their existing homes, they’re interested in improving their homes to make them more efficient and better suit their lifestyle,” said Susan Marvin, president of Marvin Windows and Doors.

This is one of several trends driving an increased share of spending on home improvement. According to the U.S. Commerce Department’s monthly construction index, spending on home improvement in 2009 increased its share by 20 percent compared to new construction spending.

Meanwhile, sales of existing homes and foreclosed homes have been strong compared to new home sales.

“And if people are buying a home, they are far more likely to replace products or upgrade products,” Susan Marvin said.

The NAHB’s Remodeling Market Index has been trending upward in recent months, with even greater increases seen in the index of future market indicators. The indicator of remodeling calls for bids jumped 20 percent from the second to third quarter of 2009, while the indicator of work committed for the next three months also increased by 20 percent.

Marvin Windows and Doors is offering resources for consumers considering a remodeling or replacement project. Download Marvin’s free, 20-page guide to remodeling that walks you through the most important considerations — from how to know when you should consider replacing windows and doors, to what to shop for, to working with a contractor on installation.

And don’t forget the $1,500 federal energy efficiency tax credit, available in 2010 for qualifying home improvement projects including energy-efficient windows and doors from Marvin.

(Photo courtesy of brockbuilders via flickr.)

• The Ultimate Casement features a design exclusive: the revolutionary wash mode. In three simple steps, homeowners can rotate the exterior glass to the interior to wash it:
  • Crank handle twice.
  • Push down on the hardware arm and push the window away. Then crank the handle back.
  • Swing window all the way open, pulling it across towards the lock for accessibility to exterior glass.

• With the wash mode, there is no need for ladders or scaffolding to keep windows clean.  And since the Ultimate Casement can be washed entirely from the interior, there is no risk of falling from upper floors.

• In addition to the Ultimate Casement, Marvin Windows and Doors will offer the Ultimate Awning and an Ultimate Picture Window. Each window has matching profiles to seamlessly blend together in various configurations.

• When the look of a double hung is preferred, but casement windows are needed for egress purposes, or because homeowners prefer the performance of a casement, the Ultimate Casement can be designed with a simulated check rail and a wide bottom rail  to mimic the look of a double hung.

• The Ultimate Casement’s largest size is 40″ wide x 92″ tall or 36″ wide x 96″ tall and the awning window can reach a maximum size of 6′ x 6′.

• The Ultimate Casement offers superior performance with a Design Pressure (DP) rating of 50. The commercial-grade hardware, the most durable on the market today, allows the window to operate smoothly while supporting a sash weight of up to 150 lbs.

• Unlike other casement windows, which can take up to 14 cranks to open, the Ultimate Casement opens in only nine cranks.

• The Ultimate Casement meets egress even at smaller sizes and is perfect for homeowners looking to expand their view. Opening close to the jamb, the Ultimate Casement lets in the maximum amount of fresh air and gives unobstructed views.

• Installation of the Ultimate Casement is easy. Removable interior covers and pre-drilled jamb holes provide a clean, finished appearance. Adjustable hinges allow for fine-tuned installation and provide a snug fit over time.

• To complete the exterior look of the Ultimate Casement, Marvin’s extruded aluminum cladding with a Kynar 500^® finish is available in 19 colors and nine casings.

• The Ultimate Casement helps improve a home’s energy efficiency with low E II insulating glass with argon to keep heat inside in the winter and out in the summer, lowering heating and cooling bills.

“We’ve seen how successful our Ultimate Replacement Casement has been and we are thrilled to offer the Ultimate Casement for expanded uses of this highly innovative window.  A new home or an addition will be greatly enhanced by the Ultimate Casement’s strength and beauty, as well as its convenient wash mode.”

Thomas Goetz, Senior Product Planner, Marvin Windows and Doors

For more information about the Ultimate Casement, visit MarvinCasement.com.

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• new and improved ultimate casement windows from marvin (materialicio.us)
• Universal upgrades for a better, safer home (TODAY Show MSNBC.com)

• Easily installs as a frame-in-frame insert into virtually any existing window. There is no need to remove the entire window, disturb existing wallpaper, siding or replace millwork. In addition, the window is ideal for full tear-out replacement or even new construction.
• Versatile, narrow jamb size provides the perfect replacement solution, particularly for old vinyl or aluminum windows.
• Durable hardware system provides the widest open views even at extra-large sizes
• Various congurations are available, including awning and picture varieties.
• Replacing drafty windows with the Ultimate Replacement Casement can help homes increase their energy e-ciency. Low E II glass with argon helps keep heat in during the winter and out in the summer, lowering heating and cooling bills.
• Can replace old double hung windows. A simulated checkrail and wide bottom rail approximate the look of a double hung, allowing a home to keep its architectural style.

QUOTE

The Ultimate Replacement Casement is the most innovative casement window on the market today. Its versatility and fine construction make it appropriate for any sort of home and the wash feature’s easy cleaning makes it perfect for our busy lifestyles.”

- Thomas Goetz, Senior Product Planner, Marvin Windows and Doors

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