EPA Delays Enforcement

The EPA is delaying the enforcement of their latest rules on lead renovation, repair and painting intended to minimize harm that stems from exposure to lead paint, in particular as it relates to children. In a June 18, 2010 MEMORANDUM issued by the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance of the EPA, it is noted that due toÊthe prevailing difficulties in firms obtaining the required certification and worker training, additional time for compliance has been extended.Ê Apparently, this has been a known issue since early on in the implementation process, and now here we are.

Nonetheless, this delay in enforcement has no bearing on the responsibilities of the window and door industry to ensure lead-safe practicesÊin all qualifying environments.ÊWindows Plus is a lead-safe certified firm. The owners, Reg and Tom are individually certified. Our install manager, Nam and his right-hand man are also certified on an individual basis.

This rule affects approximately 79 million homeowners across the country, given that this is the reported number of homes built before 1978 when the lead paint ban was imposed. Today, there are about 300,00 contractors that have taken the training course and received certification, a number well below the need to service the affected homeowners.Ê

This rule has had a negative impact on many industries, the window and door industry no exception. For those of us in this trade, we have many concerns with a number of aspects of EPA’s rules, for example,Êthe removal of the former opt-out provision and the inclusion of commercial buildings, not formerly a part of the lead-paint regulations. We are hopeful that EPA will visit ways to lesson some of the complexities and burdens of the new rules so that we can have a more hopeful outlook and be in a better position to achieve a successful rate of recovery in this industry.Ê

No doubt, every homeowner who is affected by these regulations should be madeÊaware of the potential hazards associated with lead-based paint, and it is incumbent on the professionals in our industry to impart knowledge and information in every applicable case. It is equally important that every homeowner be well aware of the contractorÊhe or she hires for any home projects. ÊBe sure to know the contractor’s credentials, it’s insurance coverages, history with customers, licensing, warranties and a basic understanding of theÊcompany’s business practices.

Reg and Tom have an outstanding reputation in this industry and welcome any questions that you might have on this latestÊinformation or any other questions that pertain to replacement windows and doors. We are very grateful to have such a loyal customer base and thank you for your many referrals. There is no question that serving our customers appropriately and consistently has served us very well over the years, but if you ever have any comments or feedback that could benefit our ability to service you better, we welcome all comments. You may contact Reg or Tom at 703-916-8372, orÊat rwayland@windowspls.com, tcamarca@windowspls.com.

We look forward to continuing our work with you!

Going Green with Windows Plus

Windows Plus takes going green very seriously and works diligently with manufacturers to promote the most energy efficient products and the cleanest and safest systems. Here are how some of our manufacturers are supporting the environment and how we are passing this on to you when you are making critical changes in your home.

Windows Plus has worked with Gorell Windows & Doors for over a decade providing homeowners with superior vinyl replacement windowsÊand doors. Gorell recycles most ofÊthe materials that enter its factory. Gorell does not cut down trees to make its products and employs minimal energy in its production processes. Gorell is listed with Green Spec in its directory of green building products.Ê And, for the 6th consecutive year, Gorell was nominated the Energy Star Partner as designated by the Departments of Energy and the Environment Protection Agency.Êwww.gorell.com

Windows Plus works with Vytex Windows for residential and commercial projects. Vytex is a local manufacturer in Laurel, Maryland that focuses on designing and developing products to accomplish great energy efficiency and environmentalÊcleanliness.Ê In fact, Vytex is a window manufacturer at the cutting edge of energy-saving technologies.ÊVytex offers homeowners the Envirosealed ª energy-efficient eco-friendly window that serves to improve the overall environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Envirosealed ª Windows are constructed to ensure excellence and pass on impressive savings each year to the consumer in energy costs. www.VytexWindows.com

Windows Plus focuses on providing the best education to the homeowner so that you can feel comfortable in making improvements in your home. We recognize that the choices you make in your home are a big investment and that making an informed decision is very important to you and your family.ÊWindows Plus offers Insulated siding with Fullback Technology ª - insulated siding is a tremendous mechanism for heightened energy-efficiency and is a green product qualified by Energy Star.ÊInsulated siding is ÒbreathableÓ and proven to improve air quality and reduce mold, mildew and bacteria in the home.

On these products and many more, contact Reg or Tom at 703-916-8372. And, as always, many thanks for your continued business. You are our very best asset.