4 Reasons to Think About Replacement Windows

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!

3 Reasons Your Home Windows are an Important Investment

contemporary windows

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.

3 Questions to Ask Your Contractor About Your Interior Doors

interior doors

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!

Is Air Leaking From Your Home Windows or Doors?

window types

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.

What you May not Have Known about the Lifespan of Your Windows

residential windows

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.

5 Things to Know About Reducing Heat Loss with Windows

replacement windows

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.

4 Perks of Getting Durable Windows that Save Energy

aluminum windows

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.

6 Tips for Getting New Windows Installed

windows

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.

The Importance of Energy Efficient Windows and Doors

new windows

Windows and doors are an important part of your home. Not only do they provide a way to get in and out, but they also play a crucial role in energy efficiency. Here are some reasons why energy-efficient windows and doors are important:

1. Save You Money

Replacing your windows and doors with energy-efficient ones will help you save money on your utility bills. According to Energy Star, replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones that meet the EPA/DOE’s standards can save you 7% to 15% on your power bills. The initial investment may be higher, but over time, you’ll more than make up for it.

2. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Reducing your carbon footprint is one of the most beneficial things you can do for the environment. When you install new windows and doors, your home will require less energy to heat and cool, which reduces the amount of greenhouse gases emitted. In fact, you can expect a reduction in emissions of about one ton each year.

3. Increase the Value of Your Home

New windows and doors can also increase the value of your home. Because they save you money on utility bills, potential buyers will see the investment as one that will continue to pay off long after they move in. In addition, energy-efficient windows add to the curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

4. Improve the Comfort of Your Home

Energy-efficient windows and doors can improve the comfort of your home. Because they help regulate the temperature inside your home, you won’t have to worry about drafts or extreme temperatures. You’ll be able to keep your home at a comfortable level all year long, no matter what the weather is like outside.

5. Reduce Noise Pollution

Another benefit of new windows and doors is that they can help reduce noise pollution. When you have soundproof windows and doors, outside noise won’t enter your home as easily. This can be a great feature if you live in a busy area or want to keep the noise level down inside your home.

6. Enjoy Longer Window Service Life

Typically, energy-efficient windows last longer than traditional windows. This is because they’re made with higher quality materials and construction methods. When you choose these windows, you can expect to enjoy a longer window service life, which means you won’t have to replace them as often.

If you’re looking for ways to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase the value of your home, energy-efficient windows and doors are a great option. To learn more about the benefits of these products, contact us today.

Why You Should Update Your Windows Before Selling Your House

replacement windows

If you’re looking to sell your house in the near future, one of the most important things you can do is update your windows. Old, outdated windows will turn off many potential buyers, and it can even make your home harder to sell. Discover the benefits of replacement windows and why it’s important to update them before putting your house on the market.

1. Increase Your Home’s Value

Replacement windows are a great way to increase your home’s value. New windows can add thousands of dollars to your home’s value, making them a great investment for any potential seller.

Not only will replacement windows increase your home’s value, but they can also make it more attractive to buyers. Many people are looking for houses that have been updated and well-maintained, windows are a great way to show that your home is just that.

2. Reduce Your Energy Costs

Replacement windows can also help you save money on your energy bills. New windows are more energy-efficient than old ones, which means you’ll be able to save money on your heating and cooling costs. According to a study, installing new home windows can save up to $465 in energy costs. That’s a significant amount of money that can be put towards other things, like your mortgage or retirement fund.

3. Improve Your Home’s Comfort

If you’re like most home sellers, one of your priorities is to make your home as comfortable as possible for potential buyers. Updating your windows can help with this; replacement windows will help keep the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, making your home more comfortable all year round. This can be a major selling point for potential buyers.

4. Add Privacy and Security

Windows are a key entry point for burglars, which is why it’s important to have windows that offer privacy and security. New replacement windows can do just that, making your home less vulnerable to break-ins. In addition, many replacement windows come with features like locks and window treatments that can further improve your home’s security.

These are just a few of the reasons why you should update your windows before selling your house. New windows can increase your home’s value, reduce your energy costs, improve your home’s comfort, and add privacy and security. To learn more about replacement windows, contact us today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you get started on your replacement window project.