Exhibit 23 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS We have issued our reports dated February 25, 1997, accompanying the consolidated financial statements and schedule included in the Annual Report of Ply Gem Industries, Inc. on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996. We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference of said reports in the Registration Statements of Ply Gem Industries, Inc. on Form S-8 (Registration Nos. 33-28753; 33-52514; 33-28752; 2-84279; 33-52516; 33-55035, and 33-55037). /s/ Grant Thornton LLP GRANT THORNTON LLP New York, New York February 25, 1997