Windows
Period Trim. Weather Shield's new one-piece and two-piece casing and backband profiles make it easier to match existing windows or keep to a certain architectural period. Sold on Collections, Legacy Series, Weather Shield, and HR175 windows, the new casing comes preprimed or prepainted to match the company's eight standard and 47 designer colors; custom hues are also an option. Weather Shield, 800/222-2995, www.weathershield.com
Hybrid. Windsor's Legend HBR windows combine a wood interior and sash with a low-maintenance cellular PVC exterior. Interiors come in fir, alder, and primed or clear pine, and clad sash in seven standard and 30 feature colors. The exterior can be left white or painted. Windsor, 800/218-6186, www.windsorwindows.com
Magnetic Latch. The best sash lock in the world is useless if your clients don't remember to use it. That shouldn't be a problem with Jeld-Wen's MAG-Lock sash lock, which latches automatically when the window is closed. Available on vinyl sliders and single-hungs, the magnetic lock is easy to operate with one hand, says the maker. Jeld-Wen, 888/594-3578, www.jeld-wen.com
Energy Conservation
High Efficiency. Polaris water heaters are among the most efficient tank-style water heaters on the market. They have sealed combustion burners and self-diagnostic controls; the stainless steel tank has 1-inch side taps for space heating applications. Venting is through the wall with 2- or 3-inch plastic pipe. Retail prices start at about $3,300, which includes tempering and pressure-relief valves. American Water Heater, 800/937-1037, www.polariswaterheaters.com
Duct Sealant. PV arrays and solar hot-water systems are great — but the fact remains that sealing ducts with a sealing compound like Hardcast Flex-Grip 550 is still one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce a home's energy consumption. VOC-free, the water-based sealant is suitable for fiberglass, metal, and flexible ductwork. Carlisle, 800/527-7092, www.hardcast.com
Economic Recovery. Heat-recovery ventilators are great for improving indoor air quality in tight homes. Energy wonks appreciate Stirling Technology's UltimateAir RecoupAerator's outstanding efficiency (95 percent). The unit features an ECM motor with permanently lubricated bearings, an insulated cabinet, and a five-year warranty. Options include a HEPA filter, a dehumidistat, CO2 controllers, and several timers. List prices start at $1,900. Stirling Technology, 800/535-3448, www.ultimateair.com
