Environment
Energy Star
ENERGY STAR Windows Program is a voluntary partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and product manufacturers. Marvin was among the first Energy Star Windows Program partners to agree to label their products. To qualify, the windows must be rated, certified and labeled for U-factor (heat loss) and solar heat gain coefficient (heat gain from sunlight) by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
Recyclability
Windows and doors are not designed to be taken apart easily. However, if they are disassembled, the major window and door components such as wood, glass and fiberglass can be recycled.
Longevity and Durability
The major materials used to produce the outdoor frames for the windows are fiberglass and polyester resin. The Ultrex fiberglass material is produced from silica sand and the reserves for this raw material are essentially unlimited. Suppliers are encouraged to be environmentally conscious; about 5% of the fiberglass material used is from recycled glass.
Plastics account for less than 3% of all U.S. consumption and in this case contribute to a durable product which has a long life and energy efficiency not available from other materials. Ultrex’s durability and thermal efficiency make it an excellent material choice for lifecycle energy conservation.
Reusability
The windows and doors can certainly be reused in different buildings provided they are still in good operating condition and are removed properly. Note that windows and doors do require proper installation and must comply with local building codes.
Reparability
Replacement glass and/or sash is available, as is any of the operating hardware. Therefore, the products can be repaired rather than disposing of them.
Recycled Content
Wood is recycled internally. Any scrap wood components from the process are used for fuel to increase plant energy efficiency. Glass suppliers have stated that normal batches of glass contain 15 to 33 percent crushed scrap glass content. Some of the fiberglass raw materials are manufactured from recycled light bulbs.
Certification
Integrity tests and complies with all applicable industry standards that involve numerous ASTM methods. Some common ASTM methods include:
Air Infiltration
Water Infiltration
Physical Load
Noise
In addition, Integrity participates in various certification programs such as: