Replacing your entry doors can come with some surprising benefits. For example, you can expect about a 74.9% return on your investment when it is time to sell your home, according to Remodeling Magazine, but that is not all. New entry doors can dramatically improve curb appeal, and more. Give these things some thought before you purchase your new entry doors to get the most benefits.

Energy Efficiency

Before you pull the trigger and order those new doors, do a little research into the energy efficiency of the doors. You can greatly reduce your energy costs with new doors. It is estimated by the Department of Energy that 30% of heating costs can be attributed to loss of heat through old windows and doors. Energy-efficient doors are the way to go.

Aesthetics

You want to give some consideration to the style of doors you choose for your home. After all, you will be living with them for a long time. They should complement the architectural details of your home. The style should be on track with the style of your home. While you are considering style, you should also be considering the material. There is a wide range of door styles and materials out there to choose from. If the process becomes overwhelming, speak to a door installation company for style guidance.

Security

Entry doors are tasked with being first-line defenders against unauthorized entry. Consider doors that have specific features that increase security. Making security a high priority on your list of “must-haves” for your new doors is essential.

Get Professional Help

There are a lot of decisions to be made when you are choosing new entryway doors for your home. Getting professional input can go a long way in ensuring that you are making an informed decision that you will be happy with. An experienced door installation company can provide you with the information you need to choose the perfect new doors for your home.

The right company will have a full inventory of different types of entry doors that can meet every need. They will have the expertise that you can tap into to ensure you make the right choice. Contact a trusted source and get expert help in choosing the right doors.

Installing new windows in your home comes with many benefits. They can improve the overall look of your house, lower your home’s energy costs, improve curb appeal, and increase the value of your home. When figuring out which type of windows you want to install in your home, it’s important to think about what window materials are ideal for your home. According to Goodmenproject.com, installing vinyl windows guarantee a high return on investment of up to 75% compared to other window styles.

Apart from supporting your home’s structure, window frames are also beneficial in increasing thermal insulation. When searching for suitable windows, the key thing to consider is which material they are made of. Here are some examples of window materials and their benefits.

Vinyl

Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC in short. Vinyl windows typically have hollow spaces that are used to fill them with insulation. This insulation is beneficial as it helps to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Vinyl windows also come in a variety of colors which provides you an opportunity to pick your preferred choice. Some benefits of vinyl windows include:

• They are easier to maintain.
• They are resistant to water which means you will not have to worry about rot or mold.
• The color on vinyl windows doesn’t fade easily.

Wood

Wood windows offer a more traditional look to your home. They require high maintenance and frequent repainting to keep them in good condition. Repainting wood windows improves their appearance as well as prevents them from rotting. Some benefits of wood windows include:

• They can last for a long time with adequate maintenance.
• Wood windows are energy efficient and durable.
• There are a variety of wood types you can choose for your home’s windows.

Aluminum

If you are looking to add a modern touch to your home, you can opt for aluminum windows. You should note, however, that aluminum windows conduct heat faster compared to other materials. Some benefits of aluminum windows include:

• They are durable which makes them hard to warp, peel or crack.
• They are easy to maintain.
• Their slim features make them have an attractive and sleek appearance.

If you need help choosing the ideal window materials for your home, contact us today. We will provide you with the best resources and help you pick out the best fit material you can use for your home’s window installation.

Replacement windows can make a significant impact on how potential buyers perceive your home. Replacing your windows also enhances energy efficiency. According to the National Association of Home Builders, households lose about 30% of heating energy through their windows. Below are four reasons to think about replacement windows.

Increase Home Value

As with any home improvement project, there is an increase in value associated with replacing your windows. Many consumers and real estate professionals believe that windows can add up to ten percent to the value of a drive-by home. Some people may be looking to sell a home in the future. You can also develop an interest in a little extra cash flow through a refinance. Replacement windows could be the way to go in such cases.

Improve Security and Safety

There are many ways that replacement windows will improve the security and safety of your home. In addition to function, replacement windows that meet specific requirements can also be very energy efficient. This will lower your energy bill. The windows provide long-term benefits to the environment as a whole. Replacing your windows will reduce the number of allergens and dust that enters your home. This can significantly benefit you and your family’s health and safety.

Enhance Energy Efficiency

Replacing your windows can significantly improve your energy efficiency by allowing in solar and light. This is especially important for homeowners that have high energy costs. Replacement windows may also come in handy if you are looking to reduce your monthly utility bills. In a hot climate, replacement windows could prove to be an environmental choice. They reduce the frequency of air conditioning usage during the summer months.

Improve Curb Appeal

You may have an interest in increasing the curb appeal of your home. If so, replacing older windows with newer window styles will dramatically enhance the appearance of your structure. Replacement windows are more energy-efficient, more attractive, and provide greater curb appeal. Replacing old windows with more energy-efficient versions can increase curb appeal. In addition to being beautiful, they are also easy to maintain and operate at a low cost.

The process of exchanging old windows for new ones is a glamorous one. Replacement windows come with various attractive colors and styles that you can choose from. Replacing your old windows will also give your home a facelift. Visit our website today to explore our replacement window options!

According to Architectural Digest, your windows take up about 15% of your home’s wall space. This is space that can be used by a burglar to get into your house. Apart from that, this space can also be a source of cold drafts. You can already see how your windows play two important roles in your home. Here are some other reasons why windows are an important investment.

Windows Play a Role in the Safety of Your Home

It’s important to invest in windows that have advanced security features. This is a good way to keep intruders out. For your home to be safe, you need windows that close tightly, and that comes with reliable locking systems. However, you should also ensure that your windows retain the functionality needed for emergencies. For instance, while painting your windows shut can seem like a great idea, that can make it impossible to use them as an escape in a fire emergency. Your windows need to be equipped with features like impact resistance. If you have the budget for it, you can even invest in advanced windows with security sensors that enable you to check the status of your home remotely.

Keep the Weather Outside

Windows can cause serious problems in your home if they are not functioning properly. For instance, if there are air leaks originating from your windows, it will be difficult to maintain constant indoor temperatures. It can also result in your HVAC system working extra hard to keep your home comfortable. Apart from keeping the cold out, you also need weather-resistant contemporary windows that can save your home during inclement weather. If you don’t invest in the right windows, you can end up putting your family at risk during strong winds and storms. Cheap windows can easily shatter, leaving your family and belongings exposed to dangerous weather conditions.

Aesthetics

Windows don’t only play a functional role. They also beautify your home. This is one of the reasons why it makes sense to invest in modern contemporary windows. Your home’s outward appearance is an important factor that you should invest in. This will not only make you feel good about your home, but it will also increase its value. You will find that your eyes are instinctively drawn to the windows whenever you see a new building. If you get modern windows for your home, its curb appeal will be greatly enhanced. However, there are many window options to choose from, and you need to strike a balance between functionality and looks.

These are some reasons why windows are a great investment. Windows also play a huge role when it comes to a home’s energy efficiency. Contact us if you need help selecting the best contemporary windows for your home.

Are you interested in replacing your interior doors? If so, it’s a great way to keep your home safe and increase its value. However, there are many things you need to decide on when replacing interior doors. For instance, what’s the ideal width of an interior door and why? According to Deco Alert, the majority of standard interior doors come in widths that range from 28 to 32 inches. Here are some other important questions you should ask your contractor.

Which Door Type is Best for My Home?

This is one of the questions you need to ask your door replacement contractor. In general, the type of door you need depends on your top goals for door replacement. Different door types have different properties and benefits. Finding out your door type based on the outcome you want to achieve is a good way to ensure that you get the most out of your door replacement project. A great contractor will always make you the center of the project. They will not try to force one type of door on you and pretend like they understand your needs more than you do.

What Types of Door Locks and Hardware Should I Install?

When you install new interior doors, you must also select new locks and hardware to go with the doors. Understandably, most homeowners will invest a lot when it comes to the security of the exterior doors. However, this doesn’t mean that interior doors should not be equipped with security features as well. There are different types of locks that you can get, and the price varies with the levels of security they offer. If you are unsure what to get, your contractor will help you select the best locks and hardware that fit into your budget.

What Does the Replacement Fee Cover?

It’s important to ask this question so that you know exactly what you are paying for. Most contractors charge a fee that caters to the replacement of the entire door system. This fee will cover things like the exterior and interior trim as well. However, you must assume that because most contractors charge this way, the one you are about to work with also charges that way. You don’t want to budget and make payments only to find out that the quotation doesn’t cover things like hinges and hardware. Everything that’s covered by the contractor fee should be clearly outlined so there are no surprises later.

These are some of the questions you need to ask when getting new interior doors. This project can give you significant returns if you get the right doors and the right contractor. Get in touch with us today if you need help with your interior door replacement!

Air leaks can cause several problems in your home, and these problems will continue unless you identify where the leak is coming from. According to the United States Department of Energy, air leaks originating from doors and windows can increase your heating bills by 10%. Here’s how you can find out where the air leak is coming from.

Inspect Windows and Doors Visually

If you aren’t sure whether air is leaking from your windows or doors, the first thing you will want to do is take a walk around your home. It’s best to start on the outside so you can carefully inspect the caulking between the windows or door frame and the siding. If there appear to be problems with the caulking, you will probably identify some gaps where the air is getting in. Likewise, when you inspect from inside the house, check under the doors. If you manage to see daylight, then the air leak is probably coming from there. From the inside, you can also check the weather stripping around your windows, depending on your window types. If there are gaps, you should easily identify them.

Smoke Test

Air is not visible. This means it can be difficult to identify an air leak unless there is a big enough opening. As such, there is a need to use a more specialized and effective method of testing for air leaks. This is where the smoke test comes in. A smoke test is an effective method of identifying the drafty areas. To conduct the test, you should close all your doors and windows. After that, you should also turn off the water heater, furnace, and all vents. This will enable you to create negative pressure in your home. The last step involves lighting an incense stick and slowly moving it around your windows and doors as the smoke wafts into the air. If you are close to a leak, you will see that the air will be drawn towards the inside of your home.

Hire a Professional

Some door and window types can make it difficult for you to identify air leaks. If you have tried to identify an air leak on your own and failed, the next step should be to hire someone who is trained to identify air leaks. That’s the only way to ensure that your home is absolutely airtight. Not only will the professionals check for drafts, but they will also do a home energy audit for you if you ask them to. You must never wait until the situation is uncontrollable before you hire a professional. The idea is to fix problems before they get too complicated and costly.

These are some of the methods you can employ to try and identify air leaks in your home. Once you find out the source of the air leak, you should close it immediately. Give us a call if you need help identifying any air leaks in your home, and we will come up with a specific solution for your door and window types.

When it comes to home improvements, there’s a lot of talk about kitchen and bathroom remodels. Homeowners are also encouraged to replace components like roofing systems and HVAC systems when they have reached the end of their life expectancy. However, one often overlooked component is your windows. Have you ever considered that residential windows also have a lifespan?

The Importance of Windows

First, let’s look at why residential windows are worthy of attention and should be included in home improvement projects. The truth is, though you may not pay your windows a lot of attention, your house wouldn’t be complete without them. Residential windows are there to let natural light in while providing you with a good view of the scenery outside. When your windows are in good condition, they prevent draughts, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work hard. This increases the energy efficiency of your home and keeps your interior environment more comfortable. On top of that residential windows offer safety, security, and curb appeal, and replacing your windows can even increase the life expectancy of your windows.

What’s the Lifespan of Residential Windows?

According to industry experts, the average lifespan of residential windows is between 15 and 20 years. So, it’s safe to say that windows are pretty durable. However, as your windows near the end of their life expectancy, their performance decreases, and they may break down frequently. Even residential windows made for high-quality material experience wear and tear over time. Old windows are responsible for air leaks and draughts that make your home uncomfortable. The surprising thing that most people might not know is that old windows also result in high energy bills. These add up over time so you can actually save money by installing new residential windows.

Should You Replace Your Residential Windows?

If you’re noticing issues like condensation between the panes and have difficulty opening or closing your windows, then it’s time for a window replacement. The biggest indicator that you need to replace your windows is when they have are over 15 years old. You’ll be surprised at the benefits of replacing your residential windows which include enhanced home comfort, improved energy efficiency, and added value to your home.

In a nutshell, what you may not have known about the lifespan of your windows is that after the 10 or 15-year mark, your windows need to be replaced. If you’re interested in window replacement, contact us today.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows account for approximately 30% of residential heating and cooling energy consumption. A single pane of glass can conduct nearly ten times the amount of heat lost by an insulated wall of the same area. It would be prudent to consider this and take steps to minimize heat loss through your window, thereby saving money on heating. These five strategies will help you reduce heat loss through your windows.

Adding Curtains

Draping curtains in front of windows and doors can add an extra layer of insulation between your living space and the outside freezing elements. This is the most cost-effective and efficient method of heating your home. Thick drapes with specialized thermal linings are frequently inexpensive and readily available.

Size and Orientation

Consider orienting your living spaces and replacement windows north and your less-used rooms south if you’re thinking about orienting. Reorientation of windows may help get direct sunshine from the west, east, or north. Window size and placement determine how much solar energy enters your home. This will allow you to enjoy the winter sun while keeping the rooms warm and bright.

Window Frame and Glazing Conduct

Consider replacing your replacement windows with timber, uPVC, or composite frames, as these are the most energy-efficient options. They are made of heat and cold-resistant materials. The strength of the window frames and glazing component has a significant impact on the energy efficiency of windows.

Close The Unused Windows

The strategy for minimizing heat loss in your home is to seal unused rooms. Naturally, heating a smaller home is less expensive than heating a larger one; the less square footage a home has, the less energy is required to maintain a comfortable temperature. Prevent cold air from spreading throughout the house and confine the generated heat within a smaller, more accessible living space. Keep the doors closed to accomplish this.

Draught Proofing

Seal the gaps around doors and windows to draught-proof your home and save energy and money. A significant amount of heat is lost through the windows, increasing heating and cooling energy costs.

By using these five strategies to seal energy leaks and considering replacement windows, you can help reduce the energy used in homes and associated costs. If you’re interested in replacing your old windows, contact us today.

The windows in your home help keep you cool in the summer heat and keep warm during the chilly winters. For longer-lasting windows, it would be best to go for durable, energy-efficient materials and designs. According to sources, double pane windows provide savings of about 21% to 31% on heating and cooling costs, in comparison to single-pane windows.

What are Durable Windows?

Durable windows are long-lasting windows that are resistant to wear and tear over prolonged exposure to natural elements. The special feature of these windows is their energy efficiency. The vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum windows are among the most durable options.

Vinyl material is corrosion- and rust-resistant, and doesn’t chip, warp, or peel easily. The durable fiberglass is also resistant to rust, corrosion, and rot. Additionally, these windows can withstand extreme weather-caused damage. With thermal breaks and rubber spacers, aluminum windows help in improving energy efficiency. Vinyl and aluminum windows are easier to maintain in addition to being durable. When combined with wood and fiberglass, these materials have improved durability. Here are four main perks durable windows offer.

1. Reduced Costs

These windows help keep a suitable temperature inside your home, coupled with the use of air conditioners or heaters. This leads to lower energy consumption for heating or cooling your home, in turn lowering your electricity bills as well.

2. Lower Maintenance

With durable and energy-efficient windows, the condensation build-up is significantly reduced. The benefits associated with this are lower mold risk, a suitable indoor environment for people with asthma, and no dirt build-up on the outside of these windows. You won’t have to clean your windows often.

3. Improved Insulation

These windows act as a barrier against freezing temperatures, hence keeping your home comfortably warm in the winters. With an extra layer of insulation in between the panes, these double-paned windows are more beneficial than single-paned windows that let drafts in. For preventing heat loss or gain, insulated windows are better suited.

4. Beneficial to the Environment

These windows keep your home at a comfortable temperature; you won’t have to keep your heaters or air conditioners running for long. By consuming reduced energy, the environment benefits owing to the reduced need for generating power from non-renewable resources.

If you’re looking for long-term, energy-efficient solutions for your home, you must consider getting durable windows installed. If you have questions about durable window options for your home, contact us today.

If you’re in the market for new windows, you may be wondering how to get the process started. It can seem daunting, but it can be a breeze with the right tips. According to a study, replacing energy-efficient windows may save you as much as 73% of the construction budget in increased home value. Here are some of the best tips for getting new windows installed.

1. Find a Reputable Window Installer

This may seem like an obvious step, but it’s important to do your research. Many fly-by-night companies out there will take your money and leave you with subpar windows. Be sure to read reviews and get recommendations from people you trust before making your final decision.

2. Get Multiple Quotes

Don’t just go with the first window installer you come across. Get quotes from at least three different companies to see the best price. It’s important to have a good idea of what you’re spending your money on, and it’s also a way to weed out the bad installers from the good ones.

3. Know What You Want

Before you start talking to window installers, it’s important to have a good idea of what kind of windows you want. Do some research on the different types of windows and find the ones that best suit your needs. This will make it easier for the installer to give you an accurate quote.

4. Inspect the Windows Before Installation

Once the windows have been delivered, take some time to inspect them. Ensure there are no scratches or blemishes and that all of the seals are in good condition. If there are any problems, report them to the installer immediately. It’s much easier to fix things before installation than after it’s already been completed.

5. Be Present During Installation

It’s important to be present during installation so that you can answer any questions the installer may have. It’s also a good opportunity to see how the windows are being installed and ask any questions you may have. If you’re not able to be there in person, make sure someone else is designated as your point of contact.

6. Follow Up After Installation

Once the windows have been installed, it’s important to follow up with the installer. Make sure everything was done to your satisfaction and that there are no problems with the windows. If there are any issues, be sure to address them right away to be corrected.

These are just a few tips to help you get started with getting new windows installed. The process doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful, as long as you do your research and know what you want. If you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to have a smooth and successful installation. For more information, please give us a call today.