Windows, Patio Doors, Windows and Doors, Build Forward, Build Smart, Build Style, Sustainable Building
In the competitive world of construction and homebuilding, the materials you choose can make or break a project’s success. Builders are increasingly tasked with balancing durability, aesthetics, and efficiency while meeting modern design trends. One technology that’s redefining window and door manufacturing is coextrusion technology—a game-changer in delivering superior performance and style.
At its core, coextrusion is an advanced manufacturing process that combines multiple layers of materials into a single profile. Unlike traditional extrusion, where a single material is shaped into a profile, co-extrusion integrates layers at the molecular level. This seamless bonding delivers benefits like enhanced durability, UV resistance, and vibrant color that won’t peel or fade over time.
For builders, this means fewer callbacks and better-performing products, especially in demanding environments.
Watch the extrusion process at our manufacturing plant in West Virginia.
▪️Unmatched Durability
Coextrusion technology incorporates protective layers that resist weathering, scratching, and fading. This makes it ideal for products exposed to harsh climates, such as coastal or high-temperature areas. Additionally, the durability of coextruded profiles helps withstand the demands of the jobsite, especially during the installation of exterior sheathing products like siding and stone. This added toughness reduces the risk of damage from impact, abrasions, or handling—ensuring windows and doors maintain their integrity from delivery to final installation.
▪️Enhanced Aesthetic Options
Bold, modern finishes—like black and bronze—are in high demand. Coextruded profiles feature capstock layers enriched with UV inhibitors and reflective pigments, ensuring these darker colors maintain their vibrancy without compromising thermal performance.
▪️Low Maintenance
Products made using coextrusion require less upkeep. Unlike painted or laminated finishes, the color and protective layer are built into the material, reducing the risk of chipping or peeling over time.
▪️Streamlined Manufacturing
By integrating color and durability during production, coextrusion eliminates secondary steps like painting or coating. This shortens lead times and simplifies the supply chain—an advantage for both manufacturers and builders.
Builders often need to weigh their options when selecting windows and doors. Here’s how coextrusion compares to other methods:
▪️Painting: Offers customization but is prone to chipping and fading. Paint requires regular maintenance and has a shorter lifespan compared to coextruded finishes.
▪️Laminating: Provides a wide range of textures and colors, including woodgrain interior options that mimic natural materials. However, laminated surfaces typically have a textured finish, which may not be ideal for those seeking a smooth, painted-like appearance. Additionally, while laminates are durable, they may require extra care over time.
▪️Co-Extrusion: Combines the best of both worlds—durable, low-maintenance finishes with bold color options built into the profile during production. Unlike laminates, coextrusion provides a smooth, paint-like appearance without the textured finish, offering a sleek, modern aesthetic with long-term performance.
The rise in demand for darker finishes, such as black and bronze, has presented challenges for traditional materials. Darker colors absorb more heat, which can lead to warping and fading. Coextrusion technology solves this problem by incorporating UV-reflective pigments and heat-resistant layers during manufacturing.
For example, the Ply Gem 1500 Vinyl Collection, available with a coextruded black exterior on select products, combine durability with contemporary style, ensuring they perform well even in challenging environments.
▪️Fewer Callbacks: With enhanced durability and resistance to weathering and jobsite conditions, coextruded products are less likely to fail, saving time and money.
▪️Satisfied Homeowners: The low-maintenance and long-lasting finishes appeal to homeowners, enhancing satisfaction and reducing complaints.
▪️Future-Ready Designs: Coextrusion supports emerging architectural trends, ensuring your projects remain relevant and appealing.
As the technology evolves, coextrusion is expanding its applications. Manufacturers are exploring ways to incorporate additional components, such as weatherstripping, directly into profiles to further enhance performance. These advancements promise even greater resilience and functionality for builders.
Coextrusion technology is revolutionizing the construction industry by providing builders with materials that are durable, stylish, and efficient. By choosing coextruded windows and doors, you can deliver projects that stand the test of time and meet modern design expectations. As market demands grow for bold finishes and reliable performance, co-extrusion is poised to become an essential tool in every builder’s arsenal.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking for a professional to help with installation or a pro interested in purchasing Ply Gem brands and product lines, we’ve got you covered.
