A history of hard work and pioneering innovation.
1926
Harold Mercer and two general contractors found Mercer Steel Co., Inc. Harold is a steel window and rebar sales representative for one of the five large steel manufacturers in the United States. Mercer Steel initially is a small steel rebar fabricator using foreign steel for lack of a domestic source, and occupies a modest 100 x 100 tin shack in Northwest Portland. Later in 1926, Mercer diversifies by acquiring a distributor of steel windows, doors, toilet partitions and specialty items.
1929-1946
With a strong work ethic and perseverance, Harold guides the company through the depression, buys out his partners, and secures WPA, PWA, and NRA reinforcing steel contracts for bridges, dams, and highways in Oregon. Mercer also supplies steel sash for numerous buildings and public works projects around the region (notable among these is the power house of Bonneville Dam, constructed on the Columbia River in 1934). The war’s end in 1945, cancellation of the lease on Mercer’s modest production plant, and the return of Harold’s architect and engineer sons Dan and Robert to the business, introduce a new era of rapid growth, ownership, and innovation. The company purchases larger property in Northwest Portland and builds a modern steel fabrication shop with its first overhead crane.
1947-1980
Increasing population and the need for housing, schools, hospitals, hotels and remodel of facilities left dormant during the 1930’s and 1940’s produces a boom in construction in the four years following the war and continued strong construction for the next 35 years. Growth of Mercer Steel was rapid and produced an expansion in floor space, work force, innovation, work simplification, and diversification of products.
1954
A new kind of window emerges. Aluminum residential and commercial window systems are introduced, with factory pre-glazed single pane glass, and clear, and bronze-tone anodized finishes. These new anodized windows were easier to install and required lower maintenance…a combination that appealed to consumers and builders alike!
1956
Harold Mercer passes away. Dan Mercer becomes President, and Robert, Vice-President. The two lead the company until 1958, when Robert leaves company to pursue other career interests.
1960
Mercer provides the pans, steel rebar and aluminum window walls for the Portland Memorial Coliseum, known as The Glass Palace by sports fans.
1962
Mercer provides the windows, ornamental aluminum, pans and rebar for the Portland Hilton Hotel, tallest building in downtown Portland at the time.
1962
Mercer introduces the first aluminum Sliding Glass Patio Door to Oregon and Southwest Washington, and is instrumental as a charter member of AAMA (Architectural Aluminum Manufacturer’s Association). Mercer helps this leading national association of window manufacturers formulate and promote laboratory test standards for evaluating and certifying air, water, infiltration, and structural ratings of windows and doors.
1970
Mercer introduces factory pre-glazed double pane residential windows to Oregon and Northern California markets, beginning a legacy of developing energy efficient window and door solutions.
1977
Mercer Steel Company is renamed Mercer Industries, Inc. to reflect the company’s diversification beyond steel and concrete accessories into windows, doors, and millwork.
1983
The third generation of Mercer’s, David and Scott (Dan’s sons) join the company time, further continuing the innovative growth of Mercer Industries, Inc. Having grown up around and worked summers in the business to help pay their way through college, they are able to leverage their knowledge to help the company continue its growth in the window industry.
1984
The company reduces and eliminates its steel reinforcing bar and concrete accessories businesses due to high labor costs, increased competition, and reduced construction activity.
1988
Mercer introduces all welded vinyl windows and patio doors, once again leading the market with a more energy efficient window in anticipation of more restrictive state and regional building energy codes.
1994
Another first. Mercer becomes the first window manufacturer in the western U.S. to offer a structurally reinforced narrow frame vinyl window. This sleeker, less boxy frame design provided more viewing area through the glass and a less obtrusive look. It also permitted installers to inset new energy efficient windows into and over existing aluminum frame windows, significantly preserving the glass viewing area without disrupting the look of the building.
Mercer Color! Mercer becomes the first window manufacturer in the western U.S. to offer factory painted vinyl windows and patio doors with a wide variety of custom colors.
Today
Mercer continues innovating energy efficient window and door technologies. As an Energy Star Partner, Mercer is recognized by the Energy Star program for its efforts in advancing warm edge insulated glass and Low E glass technology. Aligned with PPG Industries and Cardinal Insulating Glass, Mercer is providing such innovative products as three layer Low E glass, Neat Easy Clean glass, Argon gas fill, and dual seal edge seal to
offer some of the most energy efficient window systems available. Mercer continues to develop attractive, secure, and convenient hardware such as the handsome and durable Crescent window lock and Masterpiece multi-point patio door handle that add quality and value to every Mercer window placed in the home.
“The Mercer name has been a part of the Pacific Northwest since 1926. From bridges, to signature buildings in Portland’s skyine, when we say, “It’s not a Window Until We Put Our Name On It” our history and performance back it. We are proud to offer Mercer Windows.”
