In 1945, H. Smith McKann founded General Products Company in Fredericksburg, VA. The company began producing boilers for Coast Guard vessels, steel buoys for inland waterways, electric water heaters, and experimental aerial cases for naval ordinance. In 1969, Benchmark steel doors were introduced and are an instant success. Innovations like triple shadow embossing and steel edges attract builders. Entrance doors are introduced on the heels of the already successful bifold doors. Benchmark doors are positioned as an energy efficient alternative to wood doors. Benchmark sales skyrocket in 1979, when one-step distribution and big box retailers begin changing the way manufacturers distribute product. In April 2000, McKann sells General Products Company to Therma-Tru Corporation, an innovator in fiberglass entry doors. With the lead of its new parent company, Benchmark adopts a fiberglass line offering, smooth and grained doors, covering a variety of styles in 2003.