Green Builder Pat Patteson Relies on Simonton Windows

“When I began building homes back in the 1990s, I looked for the best window product on the market for the weather conditions of island living,” says Patteson, owner of Island Homes by Pat Patteson. “That search brought me to Simonton Windows. I’ve never deviated. When codes changed in our state, I didn’t need to switch products because Simonton already met the code requirements. When rules in our area required all third floor windows and above to be impact-resistant, Simonton StormBreaker Plus® products were already there for me.

“Now, as I embrace green building techniques, Simonton is there with energy-efficient windows that help me create environmentally friendly homes," Patteson says. "After two decades, I’ve got a true partnership with this company and only recommend their products.”

For Patteson, success has bred success. “Much of my business is referrals,” says Patteson. “A new client may request windows from a different manufacturer, but I always lead them to Simonton products. Every one of those people has been more than satisfied with their decision to follow my advice, especially folks who purchased the Simonton StormBreaker Plus windows and doors. Those products have so many features going for them with their energy efficiency, impact resistance, noise reduction, and intrusion resistance that it’s hard not to fall in love with them.”

Going Green … Making Green

While the economy has slightly affected Patteson’s business, he firmly believes that building green will help his company grow in the future. His first National Green Building-Certified Gold level home focused on energy-efficiency features and healthier living aspects.

“I don’t believe in just throwing money at being green,” says Patteson, who has taken a multitude of National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) courses on the subject. “I believe that building green must make ‘cents and sense’ for the homeowner – and Simonton products are so energy-efficient that that they help homeowners substantially lower their energy costs.

“I’m not sure a walkway made of recycled tires is essential for a green home, but I am certain that energy-efficient windows and doors are critical. They help the house become tighter, with less air infiltration, and reduce the [amount of] harmful ultraviolet rays that can enter the home. That’s about as important to me as a top-quality HVAC system, water conservation using WaterSense products, and ENERGY STAR® qualified lighting fixtures and appliances.”