Doors are a great feature in any home. When it comes to replacing doors in the home, it’s important to look at your options and to keep a few things in mind. We want you to have the best doors, so keep reading to find out what to look for.

Color and Shape

The first thing that you want to think about when choosing a door is shape and color. You can get doors in many colors from the store but can’t customize them. You can also get doors with shapes in them, glass, and other accents that set them apart from other doors. This is a great way to spice up your home without having to do a ton of work with a full remodel. There are so many options from unique colors to neutral, glass or wood, and much more.

Material

When choosing doors you also want to choose a door made of the right material. Most interior doors are a standard width of anywhere from 28 to 32 inches, and the material can make a big difference in the door itself. You can get doors that are full wood, doors that are plywood and foam, metal doors and so much more. You need to take the time to make sure you are choosing a door that is the right material for your home and your needs to ensure you’re happy with it.

Professional Installation

The last thing to keep in mind is if you are going to have your doors professionally installed or try to do it yourself. Having it done professionally can save you time and hassle while doing it yourself can save you money. You just need to take the time to look at your options and find out what is going to work best for you. If you can pay to have your doors installed, this might be the best option, if you cannot, you can always find other options as well or try to install on your own or have someone you know to do it for you.

Selecting window types for your home can be challenging. With so many to consider, you need a clear understanding of how to evaluate options and choose the right window type for your home. Since windows take up to 15% of your home’s wall space, investing in superior windows is one of the most important ways to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home.

Choosing and purchasing replacement windows is an important home improvement decision. The following are tips that will help you choose the right window types for your home.

Casement Window Types

Installing casement windows in your home can improve the energy efficiency of your space, let in more natural light, and increase air circulation. The innovative design also makes it easy to open and close them with a single hand for convenience. With a wide range of materials to choose from, including wood, fiberglass, and vinyl, there’s one that’s perfect for any style of home.

Sliding Window Types

Sliding windows, also known as slider windows or gliding windows, are often made from aluminium and feature a stationary lower sash and a movable upper sash that slides open. These window types are easy to operate, unobtrusive, and will immediately add style to any home, commercial or industrial application. Sliding windows make it easy to enjoy the fresh air and natural light, whether indoors or outdoors.

Awning Window Types

Awning window types are special by design; they come in a variety of styles to match your home and offer maximum comfort and great energy-saving performance.

Awning windows are not only beautiful, but they also help to cover your entryway from the elements during inclement weather. This makes them perfect for conservatories, porches, and decks to create extra living space in a protected environment. Depending on the architect or designer’s specific design criteria, you might need different styles of awning windows, as pictured above.

Fixed Window Types

Fixed windows will serve you well if your home is prone to temperature and weather changes or if you are exposed to the elements. Fixed windows are designed to provide you with greater energy efficiency in cold climates as they help to minimize heat loss throughout your home, while also minimizing the effects of sun damage due to ultraviolet radiation exposure.

They’re elegant, on-trend, and timeless and there’s no more beautiful way to bring the outside in. That’s why fixed windows are used in about half of all new homes built today.

Skylights

Skylights are window types for your home, wooden crafted that are professionally installed, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of lighting, heating, and cooling by natural light with an energy-efficient design. Crank out the excess heat from the summer or close them up during those long winter nights. Skylight window type is easily accessible for cleaning, too.

These are just a few different options you can consider when you are shopping for new windows. Give us a call today and we can assist you with what would work best for your home.

The cost of energy has risen in many parts of the country and even the world, leading many homeowners to seek ways to bring down their electricity costs month over month. In many cases, whether you are able to save energy depends on the materials used to build your home and how they conserve energy and other resources. Advances in technology have made modern home building materials more energy-efficient than ever before. If you live in an older home, chances are the construction of the home and the materials used make it hard to keep the home energy efficient, as they do not seal the air inside the home. Replacing doors and single pane windows with newer, more energy-efficient models, helps to stop this air from escaping. Double pane windows, for example, allow your home to use less heating and cooling energy.

How Do Double Pane Windows Save Money?

Choosing a double pane for your replacement windows instead of a single pane can make a dent in your electricity bill, particularly in the summer and winter months, where temperature extremes make it necessary to run your HVAC unit.

Replacement windows can help seal heat or cold air into the home instead of allowing it to escape, making it much easier to keep the home at the temperature you want. This means less running of your HVAC unit overall, which cuts down on both your electricity bill and the number of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere by your home.

How Much Can Replacement Windows Save You?

Studies from Energy Star indicate that putting in double pane windows in place of single pane replacement windows can save up to 31% on heating and cooling costs. This simple change can make a measurable difference in your monthly bills and also help you feel good about the fact that you are lowering your carbon footprint. There are other advantages to having double pane windows, including the fact that they keep street noise from coming in, making the home much quieter. They can withstand extreme weather thanks to their durable construction, and they can increase the value of your home for resale in the future.

Putting in double pane windows is an easy, affordable way to improve the way your home looks and functions.

There are many things your home may need to be updated on, and one thing that is often forgotten about is the windows. They provide natural light and ventilation for your home, which can improve the air quality and comfort level. Here’s why you should consider replacing your old windows sooner rather than later.

1. Improving Your Quality of Life

Whether you live somewhere hot or cold, there is nothing more annoying than poor insulation. Replacing old windows ensures your home will be up to code and safe for you to live in. If it’s hard to keep warm where you’re living due to drafty windows, then replacing them would also save on your energy bills. Remember, new windows can help you save up to $465 on your energy bills.

2. Improving the Appearance of Your Home

Windows are one of the first things people see when they look at your home, so it’s important they make a good impression. If your windows are outdated, foggy, or broken, consider replacing them with new ones. You can find a variety of window styles and types to satisfy your home’s unique needs.

3. Saving on Maintenance Costs

While replacement costs may be high, they will be cheaper than the long-term maintenance you would otherwise have to do on old windows. Replacing them is a one-time expense, and after that, you’ll finally be able to stop worrying about them.

4. Getting A Better Value for Your Home

Having new windows helps sell your home faster and for a better price. Replacing them will also help with resale value. So, if you’re planning on moving soon or want to put your house up for sale, then now is the time to start thinking about getting new windows. There are many things that you might want to update on your home, but new windows are a must.

5. Reducing Noise Pollution

If you live in a busy area, your old windows may not be doing enough to keep the noise out. Replacing your windows with new ones could help reduce the amount of noise that comes into your home.

6. Adding Security to Your Home

If you’re looking for added safety and security, then consider getting windows that are sturdy and very difficult to break into. This could significantly improve your sense of security whenever you are at home or away. Replacing old windows can even help prevent potential burglaries from occurring in the future.

New windows are an investment in your home’s future, whether to improve comfort, appearance, or value. The sooner you do it, the better. Call us today to learn more about our window installment process.

We all want to keep energy bills as low as possible. With the cost of electricity and natural gas on the rise in most parts of North America, it can seem like a daunting task to make sure your home is energy efficient. However, there are many simple steps you can take to ensure that you’re not wasting energy and money when heating or cooling your home this winter season. Here are some tips for keeping your power bill manageable this month.

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

One of the easiest things you can do to save on your energy bill is to adjust your thermostat settings. If you’re not home during the day, try turning down the heat a few degrees. You can also save money by setting the thermostat to a lower temperature at night.

2. Install Energy-Efficient Windows

If you’re still feeling chilly, it’s time to invest in some energy-efficient windows! Be sure that you have properly sealed all gaps around the edges of your doors and windows before winter comes. Applying a layer of weather stripping can also help reduce drafts. Remember, air leaks around your windows and doors can raise your heating bills by 10% (U.S. Department of Energy).

3. Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you’re not home frequently, having a programmable thermostat installed can help save even more on your energy bill. This will allow you to turn the temperature down while you’re away and then have it return to a comfortable temperature shortly before you return home.

4. Clean or Replace Your Air Filters

One of the most effective ways to make your home more energy efficient is to keep your air filters clean. Dirty air filters can cause your furnace or air conditioner to work harder than necessary, resulting in higher energy bills. Having your filters cleaned by a professional service once every one to three months is recommended.

5. Have Your Furnace Service Regularly

Regular furnace maintenance can help keep your appliances running smoothly and efficiently. This will prevent potential issues such as clogs, rust, or corrosion from impacting the efficiency of your furnace during the winter season.

6. Turn Off Unnecessary Lights

Make it a point to turn off all unnecessary lights during the day and any other appliances that aren’t being used at the time. Not only will this help cut down on your energy bills, but you can also save money by using LED lightbulbs instead of incandescent or fluorescent lights.

There are many simple steps you can take to help reduce your energy bill this winter season. By following these tips, you can save yourself some money and keep your home comfortable all year long!

Understanding the difference between double hung and single hung residential windows is important if you are considering replacement windows. Without closer inspection, it can be difficult to see the difference between double-hung and single-hung windows, but there is a considerable difference.

Making an Informed Decision About Residential Windows

Gathering the information you need about residential windows will help you to make informed choices about which style is best for your home. Both single-hung windows and double-hung windows come with unique advantages and, like most residential windows, they have an expected life span of about fifteen to twenty years.

Single-hung windows came first. In these traditionally styled windows, only the bottom sash is moveable. The top sash of the window on a single-hung window is stable. With double-hung windows, both the upper sash and the lower sash can move up and down.

Benefits of Single-Hung Windows

Since only the lower sash moves on a single-hung window, these windows are more weather resistant. There are fewer working parts, which means less potential of seal leakage. However, if damage occurs to the upper sash on a single-hung window, a glazier will be needed to replace the glass since the sash is fixed.

Benefits of Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are usually the preferred residential windows. Both sashes can be opened, which can be a safer option in households with young children and pets. Lowering the top sash can allow air circulation into the home without putting children and pets at risk of falls.

Double-hung windows are often outfitted with a tilt-in feature that allows you to tilt the window in to clean the exterior glass of both the upper and lower sash. With single-hung windows, even if the lower sash is outfitted with a tilt-in feature, you will have to clean the upper sash from the outside because it is stationary. Cleaning single-hung windows, especially on the second level of a home, can be a challenge.

Which Window Is Right For Your Home?

With the right support, choosing the best residential windows for your home is easy. Connect with a provider that will take the time to review your options with you.

Over time, you may start noticing that your sliding glass doors are no longer working as they used to. This can be quite frustrating. Fortunately, this situation can be avoided if you stick to a good maintenance schedule. Here is what you need to know about the maintenance of sliding glass doors.

Check for Signs of Damage on the Hardware

This should be the first task before you attempt anything else. You must check your door to find out if there is any damage or operational difficulties. This includes checking the tracks, sliding mechanism, and door locks. This way, you can find out whether you need to consult a specialist or not. Take note of everything that’s broken and find an expert to come and fix things for you.

Track Maintenance

The majority of sliding glass door issues stem from the tracks. If you start having trouble pushing your sliding glass door, then it’s time to do some maintenance work on the tracks. Please note that the tracks are exposed to the outdoors. Apart from that, they are also walked over by many people frequently. Before you get into any serious maintenance work, the first thing you might want to do is to clear out dirt build-up that naturally accumulates over time. You can do this by simply cleaning the tracks with a wet cloth. If there is any stubborn dirt on the tracks, you may use a toothbrush. As you are cleaning, you may also encounter small stones and other debris on the tracks that can damage the door. For this, you will need to use a vacuum.

Lubrication of Tracks

This is another very important task. You must lubricate the tracks of your sliding glass doors regularly. However, before you do this, it’s important to check the rollers. You might notice that one or more rollers will be damaged because of the dirt on the tracks. Once you notice this, it’s best to consult an expert to come and replace the roller wheels for you. Fortunately, this is an easy task for someone who is experienced, and they shouldn’t take much of your time.

Sliding glass doors are not difficult to maintain. There are many benefits to ensuring that your door is properly maintained and that it shuts properly. Approximately 30% of your home’s heating energy is lost through its windows and some through doors, so you must ensure that everything on your door is working properly.

It can be nerve-wracking getting your windows replaced because that means your home is vulnerable to the outside world. However, professionals take all these fears into account, and they ensure that none of that happens during replacement window installation. Here’s what to expect when you swap your old windows for new ones.

Window Replacement is an Efficient and Quick Process

One of the best things about the installation of replacement windows is how efficient the process is. In most instances, windows will be replaced within a few hours. This means that your home will not be left without windows overnight, and you won’t be exposed in any way. Apart from that, professionals approach window replacement in a clever manner. Instead of removing all your windows, they do it progressively. For instance, they will only take out one or two windows at a time. When they are done replacing those windows, they will move on to others.

Clear the Way for Installers

The people who will install your replacement windows need space to work. If there is any furniture positioned too close to the windows, you will need to move it away. Technicians will also need ladders so they can reach outside windows. As such, you must provide access to the areas where they want to set up their ladders. If there are any ornaments or patio furniture covering such spaces, they should be removed. You mustn’t forget to remove any window treatments. For instance, if there are blinds on the windows, you must do away with them and clear the way for the technicians to do their work.

Take Safety Measures

Safety must be a priority whenever you have technicians working in your home. Remember that kids will likely want to play too close to the contractors. Therefore, make arrangements to ensure that they don’t get anywhere near where the work will be done. This also applies to pets. You don’t want dogs running around when people are handling glass.

Once your windows are replaced, you will notice a significant improvement in your home’s heating and cooling. A lot of heat is gained and lost through the windows, and this can be responsible for as much as 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. Therefore, when you install new windows, less energy will be used since less heat will be lost unnecessarily.

If you’re looking to replace your existing windows, you’ll find that there are many window materials to choose from. It’s, therefore, best to do your research to determine which window material suits your space. To help you out, let’s look at the different types of window materials and the details you need to know about.

Vinyl

If you’re looking for an affordable option, then vinyl windows are your best bet. However, even though they are usually the least expensive window material, vinyl windows typically offer the highest return on investment of up to 75%.

Another advantage of vinyl windows is their energy efficiency. Vinyl windows help to insulate your home, so you save money on energy bills. They are also pretty low maintenance since they don’t need to be painted, stained, or refinished. However, be sure to stay away from low-quality models if your budget allows because they are not as durable.

When vinyl contracts and expands in response to different weather conditions, it may warp and lose the ability to seal.

Wood

Wood is one of the most aesthetically pleasing window materials. Unfortunately, it’s a bit more pricey than vinyl and requires more maintenance. For instance, wood is vulnerable to moisture and sun damage, so you’ll need to paint or refinish it regularly.

Some wood window frames are made of stained wood in various colors to match any decor. In addition, you have plenty of design options to select from, depending on your home’s architectural style.

The biggest advantage of wood replacement windows is their natural insulating abilities, which helps reduce energy bills and maintains a comfortable interior temperature.

Fiberglass

While vinyl and wood window materials are the two most popular options, fiberglass windows also have their own merits. For starters, fiberglass is very strong, and unlike vinyl, it’s more resistant to temperature changes, so it’s less likely to warp. The strength of fiberglass windows means they can withstand excessive temperatures. Fiberglass windows are also very durable and less likely to be damaged during installation.

Compared to wood, fiberglass replacement windows don’t need a lot of maintenance, but they have as much curb appeal.

These are the material options for the replacement of existing windows. So, which one should you choose? Well, these materials have their advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider. To make the ultimate decision, be sure to also consider other factors, such as appearance and price.

Windows can have a huge impact on the appearance and comfort of your home, and if you’re thinking about replacing your residential windows, you’ll want to think carefully before deciding on which style is right for you. To help make this process easier, here are four things that you should keep in mind.

1. Energy Efficiency

According to Energystar.gov, replacing your standard residential windows with ones that meet EPA and U.S. Department of Energy’s recommended EnergyStar ratings, can help lower your energy bills by between 7 to 15%. This is due largely to the fact that many standard windows have low insulation abilities and allow heat to enter and escape more easily. Because of this, it can take more energy to keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer. EnergyStar-rated windows help cut this cost down, and many look great while doing so.

2. Consider the Architectural Style of Your Home

When looking for the best residential windows for your home, you’re not going to want to choose windows that clash with your home’s style. For example, a Victorian-style home isn’t going to benefit from contemporary modern style windows, and vice versa. Let your home’s style guide you towards the styles that will work best for you so that your new windows will complement your home instead of clashing with it.

3. Think About Purpose

Consider the purpose that you want your windows to serve so that you can make a more informed choice. For instance, if you want your windows to serve as a way to bring light into your room, you may want to invest in larger panels that can really open up your space. Sliding glass window doors are also something to consider if you want them to function as both windows and as an entry to an outdoor space. Think carefully about how you want your new windows to function in your home so that you can make the right choices.

4. Consider Your Interior

Windows shouldn’t just complement the outside of your home, but they should also complement the interior. As an example, when adding a window to your bathroom, you’ll want one that will let in light, without providing a line of sight into your space. Different shapes of windows can also complement the interior decor, and help differentiate spaces from one another. When choosing the best residential windows the interior and exterior appearances should work in tandem and have equal influence on the final product.

If you are considering replacing your old windows, keep these four things in mind so that you can find the best residential windows for your home without ending up with regrets.