A Characterization of the Nonresidential Fenestration Market

The purpose of this report is to characterize the nonresidential fenestration market in order to better understand market barriers to, and opportunities for, energy-efficient fenestration products. In particular, the goal is to:

• Better understand how glazing products flow between industry groups.
• Identify major decision makers directing the product flow.
• Understand industry trends for certain technologies or products.
• Characterize the role of energy codes and standards in influencing industry trends.
• Assess the impact of product testing and certification programs on the industry.

The U.S. glass industry is a $27 billion enterprise with both large producers and small firms playing pivotal roles in the industry. While most sectors of the glass industry have restructured and consolidated in the past 20 years, the industry still employs 150,000 workers. Nonresidential glazing accounts for approximately 18% of overall U.S. glass production. In 1999, nonresidential glazing was supplied to approximately 2.2 billion ft² of new construction and additions. That same year, nonresidential glazing was also supplied to approximately 1.1 billion ft² of remodeling construction. With an industry this large and complex, it is to be expected that many market participants can influence fenestration selection. If market barriers to the selection of high performance fenestration products are better understood, then the U. S. Department of Energy (USDOE), the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA), and others can develop programs and policies that promote greater energy efficiency in commercial glazing products.