Pella® Designer Series® Windows Reduce Indoor Airborne Allergens
PELLA, Iowa, Feb. 21 -- Researchers at the University of Iowa have found Pella® Designer Series® windows featuring blinds protected between panes of glass can significantly reduce indoor airborne allergens.
The study compared room-side blinds on both casement and double-hung windows to Designer Series casement and double-hung windows, with the blinds protected between glass, in six homes over the course of three months. Research found windows with room-side blinds collected 200 times more indoor airborne allergens than the Designer Series products.
"This new preliminary research which is part of an ongoing study will help consumers -- especially those with allergies or asthma -- make more informed choices in furnishing and enjoying their homes," said Sherri Gillette, Designer Series brand manager at Pella. "The real beauty of Designer Series is that you can have it all in an integrated package -- style, cleanliness, sophistication, ease of operation, energy efficiency, and the flexibility to change window fashions as your decorating tastes change."
According to experts at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, it's estimated that 35 million Americans suffer from upper respiratory tract symptoms that are allergic reactions to airborne allergens. Worldwide, airborne allergens cause the most problems for people with allergies. The respiratory symptoms of asthma, which affect approximately 11 million Americans, are often provoked by airborne allergens.
The science of windows
Pioneers of innovation, Pella created the first between-the-glass window fashions in 1966. Today, Designer Series products have evolved into a sleek integrated system with great style and versatility. There's room between the glass for removable grilles plus the home or business owner's choice of blinds, shades or new decorative panels which easily snap in or out.
"Pella's exclusive Designer Series windows and patio doors help keep your home cleaner, easier to maintain, and also provide superior energy performance," said Gillette.
Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass are No. 1 for energy efficiency among top national brands.* Plus they reduce noise up to 80 percent.** And because Designer Series products feature no potentially hazardous room-side cords, the cordless system is a natural for homes with children and pets.
The art of windows
Decorative blinds are available in 10 different colors and cellular style shades include 15 color options for instant transformations to a room as the seasons change or as the decor of a home evolves. New this year are snap-in decorative panels which are textured, colored or nature-themed inserts that create a unique look in Designer Series window or patio doors. The panels allow in natural light but obscure the view, ideal for creating privacy in a room as well as an artful window treatment.
Recognized as a leader
Designer Series windows were chosen as most valuable new products by Building Products magazine in 2005. And most recently, Pella Designer Series windows earned recognition as a best new product for home remodeling, as designated by a panel of judges for Woman's Day Special Interest Publications.
About Pella
Celebrating 80 years in business, Pella Corporation is recognized in the window and door industry for its technology and innovation, having earned more than 100 product and design patents. In addition to windows and patio doors, the company also manufactures entry door systems with the same level of quality and technology for which Pella is known worldwide. The company is represented by a Direct Sales Network operating Pella Window & Door Stores nationwide. For more information, call 888-84-PELLA or visit http://www.pella.com/.
* Superior NFRC U-values and SHGC ratings
** Computer simulation compared to single-pane wood windows. Actual
results may vary
Source: Pella Corporation
CONTACT: Kathy Krafka Harkema of Pella Corporation, +1-641-621-6971,
+1-641-780-6925-cell, krafka-harkemakk@pella.com , or Sara Opie of The
+Integer Group, +1-515-247-2822, +1-515-710-5042-cell, sopie@integermidwest.com
Web site: http://www.pella.com/
