4 Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Door and Window Upgrades

Door and window upgrades are a great way to improve your home’s value, appearance, and energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, it’s estimated that heat gain and loss through your doors and windows will account for about 25 to 30% of your energy use each year. That can translate into a lot of money throughout the life of your home. Depending on the types of windows and doors you get, you can cut down on energy costs significantly. If you’re considering a door or window upgrade, here are a few tips to help you get prepared for this exciting home renovation.

Consider Scheduling Carefully

When you schedule your installation, you’ll need to consider your normal daily routine. Parts of your home will be pretty much unusable during the time of the installation, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. Be sure to talk to every member of your household to make everyone aware of what’s happening and ensure that there are no important events planned to take place within the home during that time.

Clear Out and Cover Up

In addition to scheduling, you’ll also want to physically prepare the space that will be involved in the project. To do this, you’ll need to clear out any clutter or furniture that can reasonably be moved out. Large pieces of furniture can usually stay, but you should cover these items up to protect them while the work is being done, as door and window upgrades can be messy projects. You’ll also need to remove security system sensors temporarily.

Create Easy Access

It’s important to create easy access for workers, materials, and equipment. This can involve rearranging parking spaces, moving outdoor furniture out of the way, and keeping outdoor pathways clear and safe.

Plan for Cleanup

Door and window upgrades can be messy. In addition to creating debris in your yard, it can also be a safety hazard if not cleaned up quickly. If the contractors you’re working with don’t provide cleanup, you’ll want to make plans to have this dealt with as quickly as possible following the job.

If you’ve been considering a door or window upgrade, contact Discount Window and Door today for a free estimate and to discuss the different types of windows and doors available. We look forward to working with you!

5 Signs You Need a New Front Door

exterior doors

Your front door is one of the most essential parts of your house. It’s the first thing visitors see when they come to your home, and it plays a vital role in keeping you and your family safe and comfortable. It’s important to know when it’s time to replace this key element of your property. Here are five signs that you’re in need of a new front door.

Drafts

As exterior doors age, they expand and contract as a result of various weather conditions. These gradual changes in the shape of your door leave space for air to enter your home, causing discomfort and increasing your energy bills. The sooner you replace a drafty front door, the better.

Moisture

A door that has changed shape over the years can also let in moisture. Over time, this moisture can result in mold or mildew growing in your home. If you notice that the windows on or near your front door are fogging up more easily than they used to, this indicates that it’s time for a replacement.

Cracks

Exterior doors can sustain a lot of wear and tear over time, and eventually, you may start to notice cracks. In addition to making your home look less appealing, these cracks make your door structurally unsound, so you definitely won’t want to wait to replace it.

Difficulty Opening and Closing

A door that sticks when you open or close it can be irritating to deal with, and it may even leave scuff marks on your floor. While some sticky doors may be fixable, it’s often easier and more economical to get a new one.

Squeaky Hinges

In addition to being an annoyance, squeaking noises can indicate that your door is structurally unsound, leaving you vulnerable to intruders. If your door continues to squeak even after being lubricated, you should replace it as soon as possible.

If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, it’s most likely time to replace your front door. According to Remodeling Magazine, installing a new entry door has an average ROI of 74.9%, so this is definitely an investment worth making. Contact Discount Window and Door today to learn more about our extensive selection of high-quality exterior doors. We look forward to assisting you!

Here’s How Upgrading Your Windows Can Save You Money

residential windows

Upgrading your windows instantly adds more curb appeal and increases the resale value of your home. According to Good Man Project, vinyl windows are an affordable option that offers up to a 75% ROI. Here are several ways upgrading your residential windows can also save you money.

Energy Efficiency

Updated windows will instantly help you save money on energy costs. As windows age, they get drafty. Hot and cold air can escape or enter the house through tiny cracks, resulting in temperature fluctuations that increase energy bills.

More Light

It’s common for homeowners to keep the curtains closed to keep their home at a comfortable temperature. This results in them having to turn on the lights throughout the house. With new residential windows, you can comfortably open the curtains to enjoy natural light and reduce your electric bill.

Less Fading

As the UV rays hit things inside your house, such as curtains and couches, the UV rays slowly cause fading. This results in homeowners replacing specific pieces of furniture or their curtains more often than they should have. Updated windows don’t provide full protection from UV rays, but they can help.

Enhanced Security

New residential windows with double and triple panes are harder to break. Small pullouts on window frames make it impossible for burglars to lift a newer window high enough for them to climb into your home. Break-ins continue to increase nationwide and can be costly for homeowners. New windows help you save money by increasing the security of your home.

Less HVAC Maintenance

When your home is at a comfortable temperature, you’ll notice that your HVAC system is used less. That means less wear and tear so you won’t spend as much on repairs. On top of that, you won’t have to replace your air conditioner or furnace as often, which can be costly.

Less Window Maintenance

Maintaining old windows can be costly and time-consuming. You must start putting caulk around the edges to seal out drafts. Window sills will need new paint yearly. Doing this yourself can require a lot of time and money for materials. Hiring someone can be more expensive. Upgrading your windows can mean that you barely have to do yearly maintenance.

Contact Discount Window and Door today to discuss which windows are perfect for your home! Our qualified professionals will be happy to talk to you about your options with us.

5 Questions to Ask a Window and Door Installation Service

window types

As a homeowner, finding the right door or window types for an installation is important. Finding the right company can be more daunting. You want to make sure the company you choose is trustworthy and can deliver results that suit your needs, aesthetically and financially. According to Energy Star, their windows can save a typical homeowner up to $465 per year when replacing single-pane windows. We’ve put together five of the top questions you’ll want to ask a potential window and door installation service to make sure it’s the right one for you.

1. What Types of Doors and Windows Do You Install?

Window and door installation services specialize in various types of products. For instance, Milgard offers vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum windows and doors. Make sure the contractor you hire has experience installing the specific type you want for your home. If they don’t consider finding another company.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?</h3?

It’s a fact that a legitimate company will have a license to operate, and they should be able to provide proof of insurance. The last thing you want to do is hire an unlicensed and uninsured contractor, which puts you at risk of legal and financial liability in case of accidents or damages.

3. How Much Experience Do You Have?

A contractor with years of experience in the door or window types you’re interested in has likely navigated and solved a range of installation challenges. A team of contractors with multiple years of experience is even better, so make sure the contractors you find are experienced with their services.

4. Do You Offer Warranties?

Ask about the type of warranty the contractor offers for their products and workmanship. You’ll want to ensure the labor and goods you’ve paid for are guaranteed. If you hire a company that does not offer warranties, an issue with the service could cost you thousands of dollars to fix.

5. What Is Your Installation Process?

Before hiring an installation company, ask about the process they use, the timeline for completing the project, and what they’ll do to protect your home during the project. Be sure to ask about the cleanup process after the installation is complete. Depending on the window type, the process can vary.

When you make these inquiries, you can make an informed decision before hiring a company to replace your doors or windows. Whether you choose a contemporary or traditional look, with the right door or window replacements, you can bring your home to life! Contact Discount Window and Door today to find the right window type for you!

Here’s How to Choose the Right Door Company

sliding glass doors

Home features like sliding glass doors can take your living space design to the next level. With this said, you might need professional assistance to find the right door for your needs. If so, you’ll likely have many candidates to choose from, and narrowing down your choices can be tedious. In light of this, we’ve listed three factors to think about when choosing a door company.

1. Consider Experience Level

While it’s unwise to completely discount a door company due to a lack of experience, it’s a factor to consider. While a standard interior door comes in widths ranging from 28 to 32 inches, according to SFGate, you might have a situation with unique measurements that requires the assistance of an experienced professional. You can be confident that they will be knowledgeable about different installation techniques and can help you install your new door correctly.

2. Evaluate Your Budget

Evaluating your budget is essential in choosing the right door company. While you don’t want to be stingy and avoid paying for the quality you need, it’s important to stay within a reasonable spending limit. It’s best to choose a company that will provide you with a quote upfront so you can ensure you’re not overspending and can afford to install your desired door type.

3. Look at Reviews

In the modern era, it’s easy to check a door company’s reputation with the click of a button. Be sure to check a company’s online reviews before you commit to working with them to ensure you’re receiving a high quality of service. If previous clients have had positive experiences with a company, this is a good sign. Negative reviews, on the other hand, should serve as an indicator that you need to proceed with caution. It’s also a good idea to ask any friends and family who have recently gotten new doors if they have companies they would recommend.

Once you have found the perfect candidate for your new door using the criteria above, contact the company and give them an overview of your needs and the type of door you’re looking for, such as standard or sliding glass doors. If you’re ready to get started on adding new doors to your property, contact Discount Window and Door today. We look forward to working with you!

5 Reasons to Install Multi-Slide Doors

exterior doors

There are many benefits to making changes to your home. If you want to upgrade your doors and give your home a more luxurious aesthetic, multi-slide doors are a good choice. Here are five benefits of multi-slide exterior doors that you should consider if you’re on the fence about investing.

1. Aesthetics

Everyone likes having a home that turns heads, and you can completely transform your home by adding multi-slide doors. These doors give your home a unique and luxurious look that’ll be the envy of all your neighbors, so investing in multi-slide doors can be smart for a homeowner. With different design options, you’re sure to find one for your home.

2. Natural Light

Nothing beats natural light in your home, and multi-slide doors do an excellent job of allowing a lot of natural light. Multi-slide doors are mostly made of glass, which means you can let in a ton of natural light when the sun is shining. When that light gets to be too much and you need a little break, you can draw the curtains or blinds to create some shade.

3. Energy Efficiency

As long as you upgrade to the right multi-slide exterior doors, you can save a significant amount on your monthly energy bill. According to Energy Star, you can lower your energy bills by 7% to 15% by upgrading to energy-efficient doors. This will lead to major savings in the long run.

4. Security

While multi-slide doors might seem like a security risk, they’re actually one of the more secure options you can choose for your home. You can keep your doors open when you want to provide easy indoor and outdoor access. You can lock the panels together so people can’t open them from the outside.

5. Saving Space

Some patio doors can make your home feel a little smaller because they take up space when they’re open, but that’s not the case with multi-slide doors. Even when you keep your multi-slide doors open, they slide conveniently to the side so you don’t have to worry about taking up extra space in your home. This will help with interior design

Keeping your home up-to-date is a constant challenge, and there are always upgrades you can make. Multi-slide doors are a great way to upgrade your home without sacrificing security or style. If you’re thinking about replacing your exterior doors with multi-slide doors, call Discount Window and Door today to find out more.

Here’s How to Extend the Life of Your Windows

new windows

Upgrading your home can involve many different steps. For instance, installing new windows can improve your HVAC bills and enhance your home’s style. When upgrading your home in this way, performing various forms of maintenance is important to keep your windows strong. The following tips will help protect your windows and ensure you don’t need new ones soon.

Seal the Window Edges

Your windows not only let in plenty of light; they also let out a lot of energy. Don’t believe us? Well, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 30% of your heating energy disappears through your windows every day. Most of it sneaks out around the frame edges through cracks and imperfections in the window design. Sealing or caulking these edges can help keep your windows strong.

Keep Your Windows Clean

While you might clean your windows occasionally, we strongly suggest doing it at least four times yearly. This schedule includes once at the beginning of spring and fall and once at the end of these seasons. Removing dust, debris, and other stains from your windows extends their life by avoiding wear and tear. Even better, it helps them look great and boosts your home’s curb appeal.

Lubricate the Mechanical Items

Open up your windows and inspect their mechanical elements to ensure they work properly. Then, lubricate them at least once a year to keep them fully operational. The oil you use doesn’t matter much as long as it suits your window type. Typically, the manufacturer will provide suggestions for what oils you can use when lubricating your window.

Paint the Exterior

If you want to keep your new windows as strong as possible, paint them at least once every few years to provide superior weather protection. Painting the surface seals your windows from wind and rain and keeps them from rotting. Even better, a new paint job sharpens their look and allows you to adjust your home’s style. Why not do a whole-home repainting while you’re at it?

Following these steps can ensure that your new windows provide the high-quality protection that your home needs. By working with a skilled window team, you can handle these steps with relative ease. Contact Discount Window and Door today if you’re interested in new windows for your home. Our team of professionals fully understands residential window installation and maintenance and will work with you to achieve great results.

5 Home Design Trends for 2023

windows and doors

What’s new in the world of interior design? While some decor styles are classic, there are quite a few trends that are sure to catch people’s attention in 2023. From practical windows and doors to lively patterns, these are some of the most popular trends in home decor.

1. Durable Fabrics

Some fabrics look beautiful but are prone to wrinkling and staining. Instead of purchasing furniture and home decor made from these delicate materials, many homeowners opt for fuss-free fabrics! High-performance upholstery, washable rugs, protective slipcovers, and stain-resistant fabrics have appeared in many homes.

2. Bold Colors

Neutral colors haven’t fallen out of fashion, but more people are willing to step outside the box and use vibrant colors in their living spaces. Deep shades of blue and green are especially trendy. To keep these bright colors from overwhelming the space, many people use accent walls or add bold pops of color throughout a room.

3. Energy Efficiency

Homeowners are making energy efficiency a priority, especially when it comes to windows and doors. Not only is an energy-efficient home better for the environment, but it can lead to long-term savings. According to Kravelv, you can recover up to 73% of your initial expenses when you invest in energy-efficient windows. It’s a great way for homeowners to lower their carbon footprint while reducing their utility bills.

4. Fun Patterns

Appealing patterns are an easy and effective way to bring life into an otherwise drab room. Plaids, stripes, and even floral patterns are starting to appear in many homes. Instead of more subtle patterns, many decorators choose whimsical patterns filled with color. Wallpaper is making a resurgence, and patterned throw blankets and rugs are popular as well.

5. Dedicated Activity Rooms

People aren’t just using spare rooms as guest bedrooms or home offices. Instead, they’re creating spaces to enjoy the hobbies they love. From craft rooms to listening spaces, decorators are giving themselves an escape from the stress of day-to-day life. Having a dedicated space for your hobbies is a wonderful way to improve your happiness and well-being.

Consider these 2023 home design trends if you plan to redecorate your home. Whether you want to refresh your living space or are interested in bigger changes, like installing new windows and doors, your home should be a place you love spending time in! Contact Discount Window and Door today to get started on making your home look better than ever before.

Is It Time for a New Door? 5 Telltale Signs You Need a Replacement

windows

Your door is vital to your home for many reasons. It keeps out unwanted visitors, provides insulation from the weather, and can be a stylish focal point for your home. So how do you know when it’s time to replace that door? Here are some tell-tale signs that you need to consider a new door.

1. Difficulty Opening and Closing

One of the first things that may clue you into needing a new door is difficulty opening or closing it. It could be due to worn-out hinges, warping from humidity, or a cracked door frame that no longer securely holds the door in place. If the door is difficult to open, it could be a fire hazard if you don’t replace it quickly. According to This Old House, doors inside the house are usually thinner than exterior doors, with the standard being 1 3/8 inches. If your interior door is thicker, it may be difficult to open and close.

2. Drafts and Hot or Cold Spots

Drafts result from poor insulation in windows and doors. Poor insulation leads to hot and cold spots throughout your home, and can also mean higher energy bills. Draftproofing windows and doors can help reduce heat loss in the winter.

3. Bulging and Warping

Warping is a common sign of aging in wooden doors, as they can expand and contract with changes in humidity. If your door is warping, it may no longer close properly and could cause a security risk. Bulging can also indicate a warped frame.

4. Pest Infestation

If you notice any signs of pest infestation, it may be time for a new door. Termites and other wood-eating pests can cause significant damage to wooden doors, windows, and frames. Inspect your door frequently to check for signs of damage, such as holes, cracked windows, and frayed edges.

5. Cracks and Splits

Cracks and splits in your door can mean it’s time for a replacement. These cracks could be letting in drafts, which will cause higher energy bills and poor insulation. They can also be a security risk, as they can let in unwanted pests or visitors.

If these signs are present, it may be time to consider a new door. Make sure to check windows as well, as they can show similar signs of wear and tear. It’s important to keep your door in good condition as it will help keep you safe, provide insulation, and add style. Contact Discount Window and Door today to learn more..

5 Reasons to Install a Skylight in Your Home

windows

If you’re looking for ways to improve your quality of life, consider installing a skylight. A skylight is a window installed on your roof, which allows natural light in. According to Penn State, about 15% of the space on a home wall is window space. This isn’t always enough to let in the light you desire, but installing a skylight can help. There are many reasons why skylights are a popular choice for homeowners, so let’s take a closer look at the top five reasons why you should consider installing one in your home.

1. Provides Natural Light

Natural light can help to improve your mood, increase your energy levels, and reduce stress. Plus, it’s much healthier than artificial light, as it contains vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system. A skylight can provide natural light in your home in addition to your windows.

2. Lower Energy Usage

With a skylight, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light without having to turn on your lights during the day. This can help you to save money on your electric bills and reduce your carbon footprint, making it an eco-friendly option for your home.

3. Aesthetically Pleasing

Skylights are not only practical; they can add a beautiful design element to your home. They add spaciousness and can make your home brighter and more inviting. Like windows, skylights come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which means you can choose one that complements the design and style you’ve chosen for your home.

4. Increases Your Home’s Value

A skylight is a feature that many homebuyers look for when searching for a new house. If you ever decide to sell your home, having a skylight can make it more attractive to potential buyers and increase your property’s resale value.

5. Provides Privacy

Since skylights are installed on your roof, you can enjoy natural light in the privacy of your home. No need to worry about your neighbors being able to see inside. You can reap the benefits of sunlight even when your windows are closed and your curtains are drawn.

As you can see, installing a skylight is a great way to enhance the quality of life for you and your family. If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your home, call Discount Window and Door to discuss your options for skylight installation today.