Window Maker Becomes First to Offer PPG's SunClean Self-Cleaning Glass to Residential Window Customers

    PITTSBURGH--Sept. 28, 2001--Thermal Industries today announced that it will offer windows containing SunClean self-cleaning glass from PPG beginning next spring - making it the first window and patio enclosure manufacturer to offer the latest in PPG's glass technology for residential windows. The announcement was made at a demonstration of the first home installed with windows containing SunClean self-cleaning glass. The event was held in Baltimore today during the Custom Home 2001 trade show.
    Thermal Industries, an Atrium company, will offer SunClean self-cleaning glass in its full range of residential window products, including double-hung, casement, sliding, bow and bay windows, and patio doors and enclosure systems. Thermal has traditionally offered a wide variety of windows featuring PPG Low-E and tempered glass products. Thermal will offer SunClean self-cleaning glass in insulating glass units with Solarban 60 solar control Low-E coated glass.
    "Window customers demand high performance windows," said David Rascoe, president of Thermal Industries. "We always look to offer our customers the very best in window and glass technology. This latest glass innovation will allow us to meet homeowners' increasing needs for a low-maintenance lifestyle."
    "Our research shows that SunClean self-cleaning glass will be in demand by homeowners," said Patrick J. Kenny, director of marketing for PPG's flat glass products. "Our agreement with Thermal Industries will allow us to meet that demand by offering the product through a long-established major window manufacturer with a wide reach."

    About SunClean Self-Cleaning Glass

    The revolutionary new glass provides two consumer-valued benefits: windows with SunClean self-cleaning glass are easier to clean and stay cleaner, so homeowners can enjoy a cleaner view with less hassle. A durable, transparent coating on the glass helps to slowly break down and loosen dirt and sheets water so that rain or the light spray of a garden hose can rinse the exterior clean. Additionally, the sheeting action provides minimal spotting for a cleaner appearance.
    Additional information about SunClean self-cleaning glass can be found at www.ppgsunclean.com.

    About Thermal

    Thermal Industries, Inc., a PVC extruder and manufacturer of custom-made vinyl windows, doors, patio enclosures and vinyl deck planks, railings, and boat dock systems, is based in Pittsburgh, Pa. The company, in its 41st year, maintains distribution through 22 branch locations east of the Mississippi. Thermal Industries is part of Atrium Companies, Inc., a maker of aluminum and vinyl windows and patio doors with sales in excess of $500 million.

    About PPG

    PPG is a leading global manufacturer of glass products that has been meeting consumer demands and serving the residential construction industry since 1883, with more than 30 years of expertise with glass coatings technology.
    Pittsburgh-based PPG is the largest glass manufacturer in North America. The company's glass businesses supply glass for commercial and residential construction markets, products for industrial and specialty applications, as well as automotive, aircraft and other transportation original equipment, and replacement windshields and windows. PPG also is a global producer of coatings, fiber glass and chemicals. Sales in 2000 were US$8.6 billion.