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.

Interior doors are a part of every home and commercial space and they are often overlooked. There is no hard timeline for when you should replace inside doors, but there are some signs it might be time to replace yours.

Inside doors are normally thinner than doors that are used on the exterior of your home. The average width of an interior door is about 1 3/8”. These doors see a lot of wear and tear and do need to be replaced over time.

Aesthetics

One of the biggest driving factors in replacing inside doors is aesthetics. Upgrading a space and leaving the old door up makes the space look unfinished. A new door will complete the space.

There is a great range of interior doors to choose from that can complement any style and deliver the perfect aesthetic for your home.

Damaged Doors

A faulty door is a great source of frustration. When a door is not fully functional it should be replaced. Struggling to shut a door is not something you should have to deal with in your own home.

There are many ways a door can be damaged. Remember, interior doors are thinner than exterior doors, making them less sturdy. They can warp from moisture. They can also be damaged through everyday use over time.

Life happens and sometimes mishaps cause door damage. Replacement fixes the problem quickly.

Block Out Noise

Many people upgrade their doors (especially in the bedroom) to keep the noise level down. New interior doors are built with better materials that add a noise dampening quality to the door.

Energy Efficiency

Many homes are outfitted with zone heating systems. A door that allows draft in is not conducive to taking full advantage of the energy savings you could realize. If you feel a draft coming in around your door, it is time to replace the door. Drafts are an indicator that your door is not sitting right in the frame.

A replacement door will shut properly and seal against the draft.

Interior doors can be a great home improvement investment. They will update and upgrade the space, keep the interior noise pollution down and help with energy efficiency. Contact us to learn more about your interior door options and how easy and affordable replacement can be.

For one reason or another, you may have decided to replace your entry doors. At this time, it’s ideal to make a good decision so your investment is worth it in the end and you get a good return on it. Have a look at the following considerations you should make in order to get your money’s worth.

Privacy

The front entry doors of a house need to be set up with consideration for privacy, as they are often what stands between the indoors and outdoors at the most visible part of your house. While full glass doors are great for letting in sunlight and gorgeous views of nature and your manicured lawn, they do this at the cost of privacy. It’s possible to get the best of both by getting doors made of glass panels that have been frosted, or those with glass panels above eye level.

Budget

Your budget will make a big difference as it dictates the material, type, and style of entry doors available to you. Additional costs include labor and framing if you hire an expert, which is highly recommended to do. Consider speaking with a trusted contractor to find out the best you can get for a good price, so you don’t compromise on what’s important.

Safety

The most important role you could say your doors play is that of safety. The door you choose, therefore, needs to be sturdy, solid, and durable. While thinking about the door, also consider the hardware and frames as your door will only be as strong as the weakest point.

Architecture

The front door of your house needs to flow with the house’s architecture, as well as your own preference. Once you find a style that’s appealing to you and your family, you can pick one out of the many decorative options available. Spend time researching online to see the different styles of doors available so you can make a well-informed decision.

Entry door replacement, according to Remodeling Magazine, has a 74.9% ROI on average. This shows what a great investment replacing your door is, whether you intend to sell your home or keep staying in it. For this reason, give it enough thought to make sure you’re satisfied with your choice for a long time to come.

There have been a lot of changes made to windows in the past few decades. Nowadays, there are many more designs, and replacement windows serve more than just an aesthetic function. Apart from bringing light into your home, your window also controls the airflow in a space. Here are some of the reasons why replacement windows should be next on your home to-do list.

Increased Home Value

There are a lot of costs associated with home improvement projects. The important thing is to ensure that whatever you are spending money on will increase the value of your home significantly. A replacement windows project can bring back about 73% of the project’s cost upon resale. The average lifespan of home windows is 15 to 20 years, and after that, they will start deteriorating. As such, if someone notices that your windows need improvement, they are likely not going to be interested in your home.

Enhanced Home Security and Safety

Replacement windows also contribute significantly to your home’s security significantly. If you have highly secure windows, you can safely leave your home without thinking that someone will gain easy access in your absence. You should also have windows that can open and shut easily. For instance, during a fire, you will want to be able to escape easily. Therefore, it is not advisable to have windows that are painted or sealed shut. Newer windows feature a lot of added security features. This will provide you with extra peace of mind.

Reduced Dander and Allergens

One of the benefits of modern windows is the convenience they offer due to how they are structured. For instance, some of these windows come with between-the-glass blinds and shades. These blinds will protect your home from dust and allergens. This is highly beneficial if you have someone with allergies in your family.

These are some of the benefits of going for replacement windows for your home. They will also do a lot for you in terms of aesthetics. Therefore, if you want to boost the value of your home, a replacement window project would be a good place to start. There are a lot of options for you to choose from online, and you must take your time to properly research and choose the best ones.

There are many ways your home can benefit from new patio doors. These have a great return on investment due to the several benefits they have. They will also help with temperature control and take up your home’s wall space, 15% of which is taken up by the windows.

Lower Energy Costs

If you want to install new patio doors, you must go for energy-efficient and thermally controlled options. This will keep your home comfortable in any climate. There are several dual-glazed or triple-glazed options to choose from. Try and find ones marked Low-E for the highest level of comfort and energy savings.

Reliable Protection from the Elements

Newer patio doors can keep your home cool during the summer and warmer during the winter months. However, if you live in extreme climates, it is recommended to go for the thermally controlled patio doors that are crafted to ensure maximum protection against the elements. If you stay in hotter areas, you can also choose sliding patio doors, as these are a great option for controlling the temperature in your home. By strategically placing these doors on the patio and in other areas of your home, you can create a draft. This will help you not to depend too much on the thermostat.

Improved Aesthetics and Design

There’s no other way to improve the look of your home than to install a set of beautifully crafted sliding glass doors. These patio doors will add an element of elegance and sophistication to your home. There are several glass panel sizes you can choose from depending on the look you want to achieve. For instance, you can go for a sliding glass door with several panels, or you choose an accordion exterior patio door to maximize your view and eliminate obstacles from your eye line.

Combination of Optimal Aesthetics and Functionality

Usually, with home improvements, when you go for looks, you will end up sacrificing functionality. Fortunately, that is not the case with patio doors. There are several options to choose from that combine beauty and energy efficiency. Therefore, there will be no need to compromise between optimal aesthetics and functionality.

Valuable Return on Investment

When you install patio doors, you improve your home’s connection to the outdoors. This will elevate your entire living experience. The best patio doors are also capable of merging your outdoors and indoors to create an open layout.

When you add new patio doors to your home, you’ll soon experience the perks. They will add a lot of value to your home and make it more comfortable for you and your family. For any questions on patio doors, contact Discount Window and Door today!