Company History
Custom Built Window and Door Systems is a family-owned and operated business in Warwick, RI that traces its roots back to 1960 when company founder John E. Gardner, Jr. purchased a small, failing, aluminum storm window manufacturing company called Custom Built Aluminum Mfg Co. Through the hard working, no nonsense business ethics that are his legacy, Mr. Gardner turned the company from the downward course that it was on, to a course of success that it maintains to this day.
During the 1960's, Custom Built introduced its first line aluminum storm doors as well as Porch Enclosures. During that time, Custom Built also introduced one of the very first windows designed specifically to replace old primary wood windows, the B-1 aluminum replacement window.
Success and growth continued through the economically challenged years of the 1970's when Mr. Gardner's 3 sons entered the business. In keeping with its goal of being a one-stop-shop, in 1979 Custom Built introduced its signature Point 1 storm window as an answer to the energy crisis of that time. To this day, the Point 1 window remains the best window of its kind in the industry.
The 1980's saw additional progress as Custom Built became the first manufacturer in Rhode Island to build vinyl windows. During that time, Custom Built invested in the necessary equipment and infrastructure to support building its own insulating glass units, and production immediately followed. In 1986, Custom Built officially changed its name to the current Custom Built Window & Door Systems, Inc. to more accurately reflect the types of products and services they offer.
During the 1990's, Custom Built rapidly expanded its product offerings to include Entrance Doors, as well as Architectural Shapes fabrication, and Profile Laminating services. These specialized services allowed Custom Built to enhance its fenestration product offering, while offering the same opportunity throughout North America to other, more streamlined manufacturers.
The economic downturn of the early new millennium has brought a new set of challenges to Custom Built and the industry as a whole. While many companies are contracting or shutting down completely because they are unprepared for the decreased demand for fenestration products from builders and homeowners, Custom Built remains a strong and healthy entity, well poised to operate in a variety of economic climates. In 2006, a 3rd generation of Gardners entered the family business, and coupled with increased investments into new technologies to streamline business processes and increase product options and availability, Custom Built is positioned for success and growth well into the future.
