Category: General Article

Before you consider building a custom home, ensure everything is in place. Most importantly, find a reputable home builder to handle the project. To a larger extent, the professional you hire determines the project’s success. For this reason, seek answers to the following crucial questions.

What Is the First Step in Your Building Process?

It is important to determine the experience level of the home builder to meet your expectations. The first steps they take will tell you more of what to expect during the project implementation. The best custom home builder will start by checking the lot size, your budget, your lifestyle, and the neighborhood before proceeding.

Are You Registered and Licensed to Operate?

With the many contractors and professionals providing home building services, making informed decisions can be hard. You need a home builder that can prove their professionalism and expertise. This is by showing you a legitimate registration document and license. You gain confidence in the services provided by a licensed contractor.

Will You Subcontractor the Project?

Commitment is an important quality to look for in a custom home builder. You want a contractor to handle the project from the beginning until it ends. You need to know if the home builder will subcontract or add more workers to the project. This will help you determine the financial aspects and other influencing factors.

How Long Will It Take to Build the Home?

An experienced custom home builder can estimate the timeframe and allow you to make proper plans. You need to create a schedule and handle other related factors without feeling pressured as a homeowner. Seek answers to this question when looking for a Naples FL custom home builder to create a sustainable budget for the project.

Can You Manage the Project?

While the primary reason is to access hands-on work from a home builder, your management efforts might determine the results. You need effective project management services to succeed. While hiring a project manager is an option, it can be costly. It will serve your interest to work with a home builder that offers project management services.

Choosing the right home builder is a step closer to success. The process can be hectic, with several things to keep in mind. By getting answers to the above questions, meeting your expectations is possible.…

Before You Call A Glass Repair Company

Maybe you’ve had a break-in. Maybe the kid who lives down the street tossed a wayward throw to home plate through your picture window. Or maybe you just closed it too hard and broke it yourself. In any case, you’ve got yourself a broken window, complete with dangling jagged shards and chunks of razor-sharp glass on the floor.

What do you do? You call a glass repair company. But before you do that, take a few minutes and gather some of the following information which will help expedite getting it repaired, hopefully the very same day.

What is the size of the broken window?

A major factor in same-day window repair is the size of the glass. A glass company employee won’t expect you to give them exact measurements over the phone, but will certainly ask you for a rough estimate. Find yourself a tape measure if you have one and (taking appropriate care, of course) measure both the height and the width. Measure only the glass surface you see (it’s what’s known as “daylight” in the glass repair business). Don’t have a tape measure or just can’t seem to find one when you need it? Use a sheet of typical copy paper – most are usually eleven inches long.

Knowing the rough size of the glass to be repaired will help avoid the glazier from having to return to the shop for a larger sheet.

Is the window single or double-pane?

Single-pane windows can usually be repaired that very same day, often on the spot. Double-pane (also referred to as thermal or insulated windows) are a different story. This type of window has to be custom-made and will usually have to be ordered by the glass company from their manufacturer. This can typically take anywhere from 5 to 10 working days.

Determining whether you have a single or double-pane window is a fairly simply endeavor regardless of how little knowledge of windows you have or how badly broken it is. At the edge of the glass wherever it meets the frame, look for a silver aluminum spacer anywhere from a 1/4 inch thick to 3/4 inch thick. The presence of this silver spacer almost certainly indicates a double-pane window.

If it is a double-pane window, are both panes broken or just one?

If both panes of a double-pane window are broken it will have to be boarded. If, however, only one pane is broken it can often be left in place without having to board it. Be sure to let the glass company know in advance if it’s just one pane that’s broken or both.

Is the broken glass in a door?

If so, it will have to be replaced with either tempered or laminated safety glass, even if there is ordinary plate glass in it now. Tempered safety glass must be ordered and typically takes a week or two to get, but laminated safety glass can be cut to size the …

Repairing Windows Is an Economical Alternative and Could Save You From Severe Future Home Repairs

Many homeowners spend thousands of dollars worth of home maintenance and repair expenses in a short period of time. Some of these costs can catch some over-anxious new home buyers by surprise, let alone the veteran homeowner. As I have mentioned in almost every publication, crunch the numbers on homeownership and maintenance before jumping to any conclusions. However, if you put window repairs at the top of your to-do list, you may save money for some other unexpected future home repairs.

Most people know that if they ignore routine car check-ups or don’t go to their dentist for routine cleanings, they could have more serious and more expensive issues down the road. Our society mindset is, if it’s not leaking or smoking, procrastination takes over. Some routine maintenance to repair windows in your home may not cost you an arm and a leg and save you from major home repairs later in life.

What costs to expect

According to the US world News report on 5/29/12, on average, people will spend between 1 to 4 percent of a home’s value annually on maintenance and repairs. The older the home gets, the more maintenance it tends to need. Lack of home maintenance may lead to depreciation of the home’s value. Of course, you don’t have to perform major repairs on a yearly basis, but maintaining window repairs can save you from major headaches in the long run. That way you can be prepared for the unforeseen expenses, such as losing the heating element in your clothes dryer. In addition, window repairs along with other efficient home improvement maintenance can tightening up the envelope and cut monthly energy bills significantly.

I would recommend speaking to a Window Repair Expert to diagnose your window problems. That way they can and should be able to give you an idea of the potential costs you might incur to take care of these issues. Furthermore, a true expert may recommend that a simple maintenance plan of serious cleaning and very basic care could save homeowners on major window repair bills.

Let me reiterate by saying before performing any home improvement repairs, be sure to weigh the costs especially between window repairs or replacements. Even though you may think the materials used in a repair job might be economical, the cost will also depend on the time it takes to properly get the job completed. Sometimes the cost of replacing your windows might be the best alternative depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of completing the window repair job properly.…

Replacement Windows – 12 Questions to Ask Before Investing in New Windows

Unlike ordinary everyday purchases, consumers do not invest in home improvement projects very often. As a result, they do not really have the experience or knowledge to properly evaluate the competency and business ethics of the person or company who will be working on their home.

Major investments require major understanding. Do not let your education come from a bad experience. Investigate the following twelve questions before choosing a contractor and committing to any major home remodeling project.

How do you know you will pleased with the final outcome of your project? Find the right contractor by visiting their place of business, talking with their past and present customers, and by viewing photos and samples of their work.

Why is it necessary for all parties to be present for discussions? All concerned parties need to be present for all discussions so that all expectations can be met.

Is the contractor legally and adequately insured and bonded? Contractors need to have four types of insurance to protect themselves, as well as you and your home.

Who is the company you are investing with? Ask what affiliations the contractor belongs to, such as professional networking groups and chambers of commerce. Professional affiliations are a way for a contractor to constantly learn about their industry, keep current on industry trends, connect with other professionals in their field, and lend credibility to their business.

Does the company put an emphasis on customer satisfaction? Information such as customer satisfaction survey results and information about how a conflict was resolved, will give you a better idea about they way the contractor does business.

What options are offered to enhance the finished job? It is nice to have options to make your project even better than you imagined.

What is important to include in a contract? If it is not in writing, it is not happening!

What is involved in the right installation? Get details regarding what the contractor is responsible for and what you may be responsible for before, during, and after the installation.

What is really covered in the warranty? Ask questions regarding the warranty up front. Find out what is covered, how long it is covered, who to call if service is needed in the future, and if labor is included in the warranty.

How to evaluate long term performance? Evaluate the value, strength, durability, and long-term maintenance of the contractor’s product and installation.

How to evaluate energy saving potential? Evaluate the entire system, not the individual parts of the product. Ask about money saving tax credits and energy saving pledges.

What is the right price? Beware of unexpected add-ons at the end. Most consumer dissatisfaction involves the low bid contractor who does not provide the long-term value that a homeowner wants and needs. Look for value, not just a cheap price.

After you have asked potential contractors these important questions and received relevant answers, you should feel comfortable making an informed …

Why Old Windows Are Worth Saving

Historic windows, most notably double-hung windows were brilliantly designed. They have several benefits that are simply not found in a replacement window today that make them an important architectural feature to save. And I believe that once you understand how they work and their ultimate value to your home you’ll want to save them if at all possible.

1. They Are Efficient

Contrary to popular belief old windows can be an efficient part of your home’s envelope. The problem is that many old windows have either lost their weather stripping or never had it to begin with. Adding this important element can really increase your old window’s efficiency and make them competitive with a replacement window.

And if efficiency truly is important to you, the addition of a historic storm window can bring an original window’s performance up to 94% of the efficiency of a replacement double-paned, low-e window at a fraction of the cost.

2. They Add Value

A large part of the value of any old or historic home is the presence of original details like windows. Most buyers of these types of homes appreciate and expect to find these original details and will pay a premium for homes without replacements. And to find to house with restored original windows along with other original elements is a rare gem that commands a much higher selling price.

3. They Are Incredibly Resilient

Original wood windows on homes built before WWII are more than likely made from “old-growth” lumber. This wood came from the huge virgin forests that once covered North America. As this supply of wood was depleted we slowly turned to tree farms to keep up with our growing demand. But “old-growth” wood is a far superior product than any wood you can buy today. Due to the slower growth patterns “old-growth” wood is stronger, more stable (less prone to cup and warp), and more resistant to insects and rot. Why you would ever plan on replacing this far superior wood with a vinyl or aluminum clad replacement window is beyond me.

4. They Are Simple & Easy to Repair

The more complicated something is the more likely it is to break. And windows are no exception to this rule. Historic windows operate on a simple rope and pulley counterweight system. Sash cords are fit into holes mortised into the side of the sash and then run over a pulley and tied to a iron weight which is hidden in a pocket inside the window jamb. These weights provide perfect balance and a smooth almost weightless operation to the window.

In addition, there are no seals to wear out or gaskets to dry up on an old window. It is a simple solid wood frame with a piece of glass held in place by little metal points called glazing points and then glazed with a natural putty that provides a flexible seal for decades. When the putty dries up after 40 years …

House Window Repair – How to Prepare for a House Window Repair

Your windows are often the finishing touch that change a house to a home. Windows provide the insulation from cold wintery conditions, or allow the summer warmth into the house. They also allow us to sit comfortably inside and look out to appreciate our gardens, lawns or scenery outside the house. If a window is broken it attacks the very character of the house. Somehow a house, no matter how perfect in every other way, appears to be incomplete with a broken window.

To prepare for a window replacement you will need to get your hands on a few essential pieces of equipment. A tape measure is a must so you can get a replacement piece of glass at the appropriate size. At the least you’ll need a screwdriver to take the window apart, but depending on the age and style of the window a crowbar, small pry bar and utility knife will also be needed.

Once you have the basic equipment for the repair together it’s time to check your window. Identifying problems early is a key part of your window maintenance. There’s no point in waiting until a damaged window becomes more damaged to repair it. Leaving in a cracked window pane can mean that the window cracks further or shatters in the next storm. Not all window repairs are on the window pane either. Check that a window opens and closes correctly without any sticking or problems. Sometimes the repair can be as simple as oiling a hinge or replacing a seal.

If you are replacing the window pane itself, the most important step of the process is getting the correct measurements. The primary measurement you need is from the left to right jambs. Start inside the left jamb and measure across to the right, but remember that windows can be prone to warping so you need to confirm this measurement is the same at the top, bottom and middle of the window. Also measure the height of the window the same way, from the lower jamb to the upper jamb.

Before you begin pulling a window apart you should review the stops and sash cords. The sash cords are the movable part of the window. Have a look at these and see how they are best removed for when you begin. Similarly make a note of how the stops are to best be removed. The window stop is the part of the window that holds the sash vertically. The removal of these can sometimes be quite tricky and lead to some damage to other parts of the window. Avoid this by taking a few moments to confirm how the window is held together and how you can most efficiently remove it without damaging the parts.

Once you have your measurements and have assessed the window your basic window repair preparation has been completed. Whether or not you plan to replace the window yourself or …

Before deciding on a garage door, you should consider the material it is made of. Some of the most common materials used indoors are steel, aluminum, composite wood, and fiberglass. Each material has its benefits and disadvantages, so you should understand the characteristics of these materials before purchasing one. Then, to help you decide on the right one, read this article to learn more about its pros and cons. 

Steel

A triple-layer steel garage door provides unsurpassed thermal comfort. Unlike single-layer garage doors, which only close off the garage from intrusion, downpour, and vehicle theft, triple-layer steel doors effectively prevent heat from escaping and cold from leaking in. This can be helpful during uncomfortable weather, especially as seasonal shifts get more severe. And, since the doors don’t need any electrical wiring, you can save money on energy bills.

Compared to other doors, steel garage doors are more energy-efficient and more durable. Steel is lightweight, meaning it won’t warp in the weather or crack. Additionally, they can be coated to prevent corrosion. Since you can customize them, steel garage doors can be more affordable than wooden doors. However, steel is prone to damage. While you can remove minor dents, larger ones will need to be repainted. You can find out more through local providers, like garage doors Denton TX.

Composite wood

While wooden garage doors may be attractive and add a touch of classic elegance to a house, they can be expensive and require regular maintenance. Composite wood garage doors are an ideal long-term solution because they are made from polystyrene, a composite material derived from recycled materials. However, wooden doors may warp if they are exposed to moisture or are located near a body of water. Wooden garage doors are typically built in layers and are available in redwood, fir, cedar, mahogany, and meranti. Wooden doors may require staining, and custom-made models may be quite costly.

These doors come in six distinct wood finishes and may complement the exterior of a Craftsman-style home. In addition, some wood composite garage doors are available with different metal hardware to add style and flair to your home. They can also accommodate the look of a contemporary home. Composite wood doors may also be an excellent choice for homes that do not have a formal front entry or porch for added beauty and practicality. The most effective garage doors will complement your home’s architectural style while adding a touch of rustic charm.

Aluminum

If you’re looking for a durable garage door, consider installing an aluminum one. Compared to steel, aluminum is more affordable and less susceptible to rust and corrosion. This material is also relatively durable, with a strength-to-weight ratio much higher than steel. However, it can still be vulnerable to dents and dings even though it’s lighter. Aluminum’s other drawbacks include denting and hardness. Still, these advantages make aluminum the perfect choice for many households.

Aluminum is the lightest conventional metal, making it the perfect choice for garage doors. While steel …

Timeless Beauty of Wood Windows

When making that important decision on what window treatment best suits your individual taste nothing compares to the timeless beauty and elegance of custom wood windows.

Your choices in wood materials are available in pine, maple, oak, walnut, Douglas fir, cherry and mahogany. Each has its own distinctive character and style.

Custom quality built windows can be stained to match the existing wood finishes in your home or painted in the colour of your choice. Your windows can be designed with lovely natural wood interiors combined with stylish low maintenance exteriors.

Have a custom installer help you to choose which of the many window styles will best suit your home from bow or bay adding a spacious feel to any room. Or choose styles in casement, awning, gliding, single or double hung styles all with their unique individual features.

You can also have unique specialty window designed in curved or angle shapes, perfect for that special accent window. Glass options include stained, patterned or bevelled that will offset your wood frames to perfection. Other options include UV treated glass or high performance glass that stays cleaner with less visible water spotting. Each window will be an individual work of art hand crafted with great attention to detail.

Design your wall by strategically placing your windows in combinations and patterns that will add dramatic flair to your room. Wood windows custom designed with graceful curves or dramatic angles can bring the unsurpassed beauty of nature inside with stunning outdoor views blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors.…

How to Find Double Glazing Prices

When you are shopping around you will want to know where you can find some double glazing prices. When you know where to find double glazing prices you are able to purchase the best one available for a price that you can afford.

One place that you can find double glazing prices is by looking on the internet. Searching here you might find that you can have a wide variety of these items listed. However, you will want to make sure that you look at several web sites before you make the choice that way you can get an idea on the price range that it present.

Some place else that you might want to search for double glazed windows prices is by contacting various companies that sell these items. If you call up the companies that are selling this item you might be able to get the prices for this specific thing, but you also need to look to see if they can give you a bid on the entire project that you have available for them to work on.

These prices can also be found by checking the ads that are published in your newspaper. When you get your newspaper you will want to look through the ads to see if anyone is selling this product. If they are selling this product you could find out if they are running a sale on the items or not. However, they will normally have there regular upvc windows prices listed as well.

Searching for double glazing prices can be a fun thing to do. However, your going to want to know how to find this information so that you can get the best deal possible. Then once you get the best deal possible you will have the best looking windows in town.…

Residential Glass Replacement or Window Repair

Now that the cold weather is just around the corner it is time to start thinking what you can do to save some money on your utilities and lower that energy bill. One solution would be residential glass replacement, but if you can’t afford new windows right now you should at least go for window repair and winterization. This way you will improve the energy efficiency of your existing windows. Remember that windows and doors are the major source of heat-loss in most homes.

If you do decide to go with residential glass replacement here are some tips to help you choose the ones that best fit your home. First of all, do some research to find the best company in your area that specializes in window repair and residential glass replacement and ask for references. This way you know you’re getting the quality you’re paying for, the installer is properly insured and you are also getting a guarantee. Also, new windows increase the home’s value and if you ever decide to sell your house, they will provide one of the highest return on investment.

Even though working with a company that has ample qualifications might cost you some extra money, think about the benefits their experience brings: you’ll have windows with a better technology that you won’t have to replace for a long time and an enhanced interior. Examine various window types and ask your retailer what advantages and disadvantages they bring, so you can take the best decision.

Sometimes it can be difficult to say if you need new windows so here are some signs that tell you need window repair or residential glass replacement. If you see condensation on your windows on a cold day, this could be a sign of worn insulation. Also, if you want to check them for air infiltrations you should hold a candle near the window frames. If it flickers then it needs to be fixed. Don’t worry this is not expensive, you just need some weather stripping and caulk. Overall, window repair is cheaper than residential glass replacement, so if you don’t have the money now to make the changes you don’t have to freeze this winter or to pay huge energy bills. You just need a specialist that can help you winterize your windows. Some of the things that need to be done are not that hard and you can probably spend a few hours working now and thinking how cozy you’ll feel all winter. However, make sure it’s dry outside when you start working if you don;t want your work to e in vain.…