GoodChildHomes

Factors to Consider Before Tinting Windows

If you have decided to tint your home windows and do not have a clue on where to start, you do not have to worry anymore because with a few tips on the factors that you have to consider before pursuing this venture, you will be able to carry it out effectively. The first thing that you have to do is identify the type of tinting films you need. This is because they often come in various color shades such as bronze and grey. In addition to this, it is important to note that while dark color shades insulate more heat, they do not do much to increase the level of privacy.

Home window tinting requires specific measurements if it is to be carried out effectively. The height and the width of your home windows is what should be given priority and it should always exceed with an inch to ensure that you do not have to cut pieces to fill spaces that are not covered. This way, you will achieve a neat finish once you are done with the tinting project. Once you are done with this, the next thing would be to place your order for the tint. However, before doing this you should make sure that you compare prices and the mode used for measuring the tint.

For instance, while some shops sell it in square foots, others sell it in linear foot and this could differ with your measurements. However, it is important to remember that linear is better because it comes in one long piece and as such, it is easier to install. Sounds simple doesn’t it? That is all good, however there is one more thing that has to be given top most priority and this is pre-testing the home window tinting film before buying it. This is to measure its opaqueness and the amount of privacy and sunlight it lets through. If you won’t do this, you might tint your windows and regret it soon afterward.…

Window Companies

Window Companies who do I call

Replacing your existing windows in today’s competitive market can be extremely confusing with today’s marketing strategies and the increase of double-glazing companies liquidating and-or being exposed as not fit for purpose the industry has taken its fair share of knocks.

Value for Money

When it comes to spending money on your home, the sensible customer wants quality & value for money. Window products are not standard; each item is designed to suit your house and your personal requirements, you have choices of colour, white – Light Oak – Rosewood all these colours can be mixed Light Oak/Rosewood outside and white inside, utilised with the options of Leaded Lights – bevels, Georgian Bar or traditional lead designs. With all these options your personal choices can be achieved with the minimum of fuss.

High Quality Components

Whilst price must be a major consideration some products are worth spending a little bit more on, elements of hardware and components should not be compromised because of the price. High quality hardware and handles are a necessary that eliminates calls because of failure.

FENSA registered Company

All installations must be to the new Building Regulation revisions (Part F, Part J and Part L). With the regulations being implemented in October 1st 2010 you will be confident that with a FENSA registered installer, your Home Improvement will make your home feel like the best home down the street, and if you decide to move, all the relevant building control documents are implemented and automatically change over to the new owner.

10 Year Insurance

With this insurance the home owner is re – insured that any financial investment they make with is protected with this indemnity. In recent times the consumer view is changing in that they once believed it was more likely that a small business was at risk of closure compared to a multi-national company, unfortunately this is no longer the case. With this insurance scheme being implemented all your transactions are protected giving you confidence to call the right company and the right choices.

A Rated Windows

All windows are Energy rated A – B – C depending on your budget, we recommend spending out more for the higher rated windows because you will be saving more money over the longer period with your energy bills.

Promotions

Many window companies have various monthly promotions and offer an affordable solution for any budget, shop around and get the best deal to suite your pocket, better to get a written quote as a salesperson will tell you any price on the phone disregarding Health and Safety & building regulations part N 1992.

Recommendations

Where ever possible get a recommendation from a friend or family who have used the company and are happy.

Have you already had written quotations for your project and undecided, please call Southeast Windows we recommend them highly, as they don’t claim to be the cheapest, but I know you will be pleasantly surprised at …

A Sash Window Repair Makes a House Into a Home Again

Over the years, all homes begin to suffer a little from wear and tear, and require some restoration to help them to recover. In many houses, especially those that were built in Victorian times, a sash window repair can give the outside of the property a whole new lease of life.

An initial look at the damage that’s been caused by the weather, the central heating and from general usage often makes the home owner consider replacing the whole window units, but there really is no need for that. A reputable restoration company can soon have those windows looking good and working perfectly once again.

Draught proofing can save money

Of course, a sash window repair will do so much more than simply make the home look new again. Restoration is a commonly accepted method of bringing down the household heating bills, too. As the years go by, timber window frames become less effective at keeping the cold air out and the warm air in.

With a renovated window, draught proofing is so much more efficient, and will help to keep the home owners snug and warm inside. And as an added bonus, sash window restoration will lead to less usage of heating fuel, thereby lessening the impact on the environment in the process, an important factor in these ecology-conscious days.

A sash window repair makes a dramatic difference

A common problem with older windows is the looseness of the glass. In the past, window panes were kept in place by putty and thin wooden beading. The end result was loose panels which rattle in the wind and fail to keep the cold air out. Sash restoration involves strong laminated glass and a more secure beading.

Without implementing a sash window repair, some home owners are leaving themselves more open to intruders. The older panes of glass, and the thin beading, are relatively easy to remove, a fact that is not lost on some burglars. Commissioning a restoration is an excellent way to improve the levels of security in the home.

Sash window restoration can add value to the home

In these difficult economic times, a growing number of people are opting to repair and renovate their homes rather than move house. Those that choose a window restoration programme are making a wise investment. In many cases, it will even add value to the home itself, so will prove fruitful if they decide to sell in the near future.

A sash window repair is a relatively inexpensive process, yet remains one that will bring many rewards.…

Double Pane Window Repair Is Cheaper Than Buying New Windows

As you know the great thing about double paned windows is the way they insulate. They keep your cool air in during the summer and the warm air in during the winter, thus saving you lots of money on your utility bills. The way the insulation properties of your window works is because there is a trapped gas or air between the panes to increase the insulation. If you get a crack in the glass you will start to see fog develop between the glass panes or drops of condensation developing. You probably think all you can do is replace the entire window but you need to know that double pane window repair can be done and it will save you money.

The first best way to get the windows repaired is to get a professional to do the fix They will drill a small hole in a corner of the window and blow some cleaners into the space. they will drill a second small hole in the upper section of the window so when they blow air into the space the cleaners will clean and exit through the second hole. Once the inside is clean they will blow a drying agent through and seal the top hole and then blow more air in and seal the bottom hole. When the holes are sealed you will have your double pane window repair so they will once again insulate you from extreme temperatures passing through and you will have clear windows to look through as well.

If you have glass panes that are broken they will have to be replaced. Some people can measure and get replacement glass from a local glass dealer and do the replacement themselves. It can be tricky with double pane windows and you may be better off having a pro do it for you. The most important part is to ensure you get the glass the exact size and thickness that you need for your double pane frame. This way the pane can be sealed properly and clean dry air or gas can be trapped between the pains to restore the insulation factor that you had before the pane of glass was broken.

The best place to find a double pane window repair professional is through a local glass company or by checking stores where they sell the double pane windows. The stores will either have a repair professional on staff or will be able to direct you to the best place to find some help. Before they will be able to give you an estimate they will need to come to your home and see the windows that need repair. Some repairs are fairly simple and can be inexpensive to fix. Others, such as needing to replace one or more panes will cost more. Just be sure to have the repair person explain exactly what needs to be done and get a written estimate of …

Decorating Windows With Wrought Iron

Using wrought iron as an element of aesthetic design can be a beautiful addition to any home, whether it is external or internal. In particular, wrought iron designs for windows convey a certain regal sensibility. When looking upon decor like this, the home seems classy, elegant and well put together. Wrought ferrrous is a very classic decorating element and has seen major spikes in popularity growth as architecture and design trends from the early 1900s are making their way back into vogue. For this reason, many homeowners who have decided to redecorate their properties either externally or internally are looking to style their windows with wrought iron decor.

Although it may be hard for a homeowner to think of where they might be able to purchase the kind of wrought iron window decor they see in magazines or on TV, it is, in fact, widely available. Stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot and Rona all feature certain types of wroughtt iron decor that can be sized to fit their needs. First and foremost, the customer must know the dimensions of space that they are working with, to ensure that any purchase they make will actually work with their window space. If the customer does not see the size or style that they are looking for, speaking to a sales associate can help to lead the customer in the right direction. The store may have the option of ordering different kinds of wrought iron decor than what is currently in stock, or may be able to direct the customer to one of their direct suppliers.

If the homeowner can not find what they are looking for at a local home improvement store, they are not out of luck. The Internet is full of home decor websites that they can browse to learn about different types of wrought iron decor and where they can be purchased. Many style inspiration sites feature source links in order to direct the visitor as to where the product can be purchased. At very least, the information is generally available. With a few quick clicks, the homeowner can find themselves looking around online for their perfect wrought iron decor. Keeping their available dimensions in mind, they can talk with representatives of companies which produce wrought iron decor either via email or on the phone to talk about what types of decor would work best for them and any delivery options. Once the homeowners has found their perfect decor, they can order it and have it shipped.

When the decor arrives, it will, of course, need to be installed. While some people are extremely crafty and prefer to do that themselves, others will need to make use of a friend or family member who is better at renovations. A local renovator or handyman may make the best choice in this situation, as they will have the professional tools necessary to give the wrought iron decor the clean and polished look that the homeowner desires …

Renovate Your Home Interiors With the Wooden Windows

Creativeness is something that can simply make your home interiors attractive and outstanding. There are numerous fixtures that are present in the market through which you can easily provide a good look to your home or you can simply make your home special. If you are planning top start the renovation process for your interiors, then the eye catching interior fixtures can simply prove out to be very much effective in improving the looks of your home. You can easily improve the personality of your house with the help of various stylish home fixtures.

Wooden windows are really the best fixtures that can simply add appeal to your house. You can also grab the attention of your guests as well as the viewers with the help of these crafted wooden windows. These interiors decors are well enhanced with numerous advantages and benefits that you will simply love to stay at your home all the time. a well crafted wooden window can really prove out to be the best decors for the renovation purposes.

You can easily notice the window casements and sash windows that are available in the market. These types of windows are really very attractive and they are easily available in the market in a vast range. You can simply select the perfect fixture that can easily match with the personality of your existing home interiors. There are wooden windows that are well enhanced with a Victorian look. These fixtures can simply provide an old fashioned look to your interiors. You can also make your home eco friendly with the help of these wooden windows which are available in various colors. Today, most of the people prefer them because they are the best way through which you can provide a classy look to your interiors.

You must also take the proper care of these interior decors because they need a lot of maintenance. You can easily clean them with the help of the cleaners and the soft cloth. You can simply remove all the stains like that of lipstick and bubblegum with the help of water and cloth piece. You must also keep this fact in your mind that you do not use the high pressure sprays because they can make the texture of these windows rough and hard. You must also not use the nail polish removers and the polish cleaners because they are very much harmful and can easily make the surface harsh.

These are some of the facts related to the wooden windows. Make sure that you consider them well in your mind.…

Stained Glass: Styles Commonly Used by Stained Glass Artists

When they are crafting one-of-a-kind stained glass windows for homes, government buildings, hotels, or churches, stained glass artists must not only create a memorable pattern, but also select the right types of glass to bring that pattern to life. Creating custom stained glass works may involve using one or more of the types of glass described below:

Cathedral glass: Cathedral glass is readily identified by its transparency. It is usually tinted a single, uniform color, and is available in a number of textures. Cathedral glass can be layered to achieve more complex looks and colors.

Opalescent glass: This is the type most people picture when they think of stained glass. It is generally translucent, meaning that although some amount of light is allowed to pass through, objects that are on the other side of the glass are not visible. This type of glass can be a single color, but often incorporates different hues or shades.

Wispy glass: Wispy glass consists of two different colors of glass that are mixed together. The characteristic that makes wispy glass special is that one color is usually opalescent while the other is cathedral. This results in varying amounts of light being permitted to pass through the glass, which creates good color depth and interesting visual effects.

Streaky glass: Streaky glass is similar to wispy in that two different colors are combined together. The difference is that both colors are typically opalescent. Rich, complex shades are created.

Bevels: Bevels are often included as accent pieces within a larger work of stained glass or used to create a border, although there are some works composed entirely of bevels. Bevels are made of thick pieces of glass, and their edges are ground and polished in such a way that they refract light. Bevels scatter light in much the same way as prisms.

Textured glass: Most people think of glass as having a smooth surface, but the truth is that an almost endless number of textures can be produced when glass is in its molten state. Just a few types of textured glass that can be used to craft panels, windows, and other decorative elements are antique (this type has fine lines and is often used to create backgrounds), seedy (contains small trapped air bubbles), and catspaw (a unique surface texture created when hot glass is placed on a cooler table).

The types of glass described above can be combined by talented stained glass artists in countless ways. Even works created from the same pattern can be entirely different once completed because of the colors, textures, and properties of the glass used to create them.…

Childproof Your Home

Parents are always put on guard when their children play outdoors, but in truth, most kid’s injuries take place at home.

10 suggestions on how to make the home safe for children:

1. Fix window grilles on all windows and keep them locked. ensure that the gaps between the grilles are not wide enough for children to slip through. Beware of horizontal grilles – they can turn into ladder steps for children. The same goes for door handles are stiff or jam frequently. These could cause mini crises where a grandparent or small child gets stuck in a room or bathroom because they can’t turn the handle to get back out. prevent such stress by replacing door handles and locksets.

2. Beds should have railings at the side and set at a low height.

3. Chairs and tables should not be placed near windows.

4. Arranges furniture neatly. Active children may hurt themselves when playing in a cluttered room.

5. Children under seven years old should not sleep on double-deck beds as they could fall off.

6. Use socket covers on electrical cords or wires hanging around.

7. Toys with small removable parts are not suitable for young children. Keep an eye on toys that are damaged or broken.

8. If there are stairs in the house, baby gates should be installed at the bottom and the top.

9. Furniture should preferably have rounded edges. Otherwise, cover any sharp edges with corner guards.

10. Rugs or mats should be of the non-slip variety to prevent slipping.…

A Guide to Cheap Double Glazing

Double glazing refers to the process of fitting two glass panes into a window frame and then filling the space between them with some type of gas. The type of gas between the windows can be anything from argon to xenon, but can also be regular air. These windows provide numerous benefits to a homeowner who installs them. However, they can be very expensive. There are ways to find cheap double glazing on the market, but you must be aware of what parts of the product matter, and what parts do not.

One of the most costly parts of the manufacturing process is filling the window with a special type of gas. While the three most commonly used gasses (argon, krypton and xenon) do provide an increase in insulation against heat and cold, they are expensive. Regular air will do the job as well. So there is no reason to seek out expensive windows filled with argon.

The material that the actual frame is constructed from contributes to the reduced price of cheap double glazing. Uncoated polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) is commonly used. This material is just as energy efficient as aluminum but costs less. The only drawback being the outside appearance, which can be at odds with the style of some houses.

A small element in the frame, the part known as the spacer can be constructed less expensively in cheap double glazed windows. The spacer is the part that holds the glass panes apart. While optimally a manufacturer would use fiberglass or steel to make this part, aluminum works just as well and costs less.

The glass in a window can also be coated with one of several different types of metals or films. The windows can be treated to filter out UV rays, retain more heat or reflect more sun to keep it cooler inside. In searching for cheap double glazing, avoid these types of coatings. They will increase the price of the windows, sometimes dramatically.

Cheap double glazing can be made even less expensive if you plan to install the windows yourself. This may take some research, and you will need the right tools for the job, but it could save a lot money. The installation process is not much different than installing a regular window. Simple guidelines can be downloaded and followed to make the task even easier.

If buying and installing totally new cheap double glazing does not appeal to you, you may want to look into adding a second layer of glazing to your already existing windows. This process simply places a new window pane into your existing frame. This simple step may give you results similar to having purchased cheap double glazing.

Double glazing has proven to be very effective at helping a home same money. Even cheap double glazing will increase the energy efficiency of a home, making it less expensive to heat and cool the rooms. An added benefit includes some reduction in the amount …

In terms of home repair, nobody finds the process to be fun. It can feel like a chore, and some things get put off. Once thing you should never neglect to do is maintain your roof. Bathroom Renovations Your roof gives your home the best protection against the elements, so you have to do all you can to ensure your roof is in sound condition. This article can teach you how.

Though leaks may be the result of shingle issues, you may also need to inspect your roof’s foundation. If there is dry rot on your home’s sides, you may get water in your home. You should examine all potential entry points so that you can find the problem.

Safety is priority one when roof repair is involved. A quick way to seriously injure yourself is to try to work on your roof in wet conditions. Place a bucket under the leak until the weather clears up, then go have a look at your roof to see if you can repair the problem.

When a leak is getting fixed, you have to be sure that the job is done correctly the first time. So, you cannot stop inspecting once you find the initial issue. It is important that you determine the entire extent of the problem before beginning repairs.

Always wear rubber-soled boots when working on your roof. Even if it’s sunny and dry, these boots can grip well. Be very careful when making repairs on your roof since you could easily lose your balance and injure yourself.

As mentioned, it can be a real chore to maintain your roof. Nonetheless, it is necessary to care for your roof well to protect your home. Use the advice mentioned above to help you keep your roof in great shape. You will reap the benefits of your diligence.…

How a Home Energy Audit Can Benefit You

Getting a home energy audit done on your home lets you know where you stand in the scheme of conservation and your immediate impact on our environment. How else are you going to know if your windows leak like a sieve or if you have enough insulation to maximize your heating efficiency?

Home energy audits take a scientific approach to see how your home holds heat and air (or not). Energy audit professionals will measure your home’s air loss using a vacuum to pressurize your home and take measurements. This will tell them where you are losing most of your air in your home. This means they can tell you where your heating and cooling dollars are going and if they are efficient or not.

Are my windows efficient or do they need to be replaced?

Your home’s age is a primary factor in how efficient your windows are at keeping conditioned air in your home. Even windows that were made 35 years ago are less efficient than newer ones because the technology wasn’t available yet. This means your windows could be leaking air around the frame, panes and cracks. Those are dollars literally going out the windows! Your home audit specialist will be able to help you determine whether or not installing replacement windows makes sense for your home.

Does my home have enough insulation?

When homes are built, they start as one large building and are carved out by contractors who add electrical work, piping, dry wall and other elements to it. This creates voids or spaces throughout the entire home through which air flows continuously. The voids can be filled with appropriate R-value insulation to combat this air flow problem. If your house seems to quickly lose the heated and cooled air that gets pumped in, there may not be enough insulation in your house.

Unlike today, if your home was built more than 30 years ago, oil was dirt cheap. This meant that home builders didn’t need to think about insulation much because they knew that people would just turn up the thermostat to get their home to a comfortable temperature.

Plus, as building codes focus more on energy efficiency, the building regulations call for more insulation (or R-value which stands for “resistance to heat”) than in the past. The result is millions of homes with insufficient insulation to keep hot and cold air inside the home from going outside. This means you could be paying hundreds of extra dollars a year because your home builder didn’t need to put enough insulation in your home back then!

Efficient HVAC equipment

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) makes each building comfortable to be in. The heaters, furnaces, water heaters and air conditioners do the work when we tell the thermometer how hot or cold we want a room to be. To get the maximum benefit from these tools, it’s important to make sure the equipment runs as efficiently as …

The Difference Between Aluminum Windows And Vinyl Windows

Wondering which will win in aluminum vs. vinyl windows battle? It isn’t surprising that some homeowners find themselves torn between using aluminum or vinyl for their windows. The fact is that almost of materials come with their own perks that make them ideal choices for a home. That being said, following are some of the factors detailing how aluminum and vinyl fare against each other.

1) Design

In terms of design, both materials definitely have extensive choices. Vinyl and aluminum are usual manufacture in varying shade of color as well as sizes, making it possible for homeowners to choose the perfect item to match their home. The main difference with these two is that aluminum may be painted over while vinyl usually retains its color with any additional paints.

2) Maintenance

Both vinyl and aluminum, are pretty low maintenance and usually has a very long life even when exposed to elements. However, the aluminum is clearly at a disadvantage here as it may require a repainting job if the color starts to fall off. On the other hand, vinyl manages to maintain its color and, therefore, can remain the same shade throughout its life.

3) Strength

With regards to strength, both aluminum and vinyl are pretty remarkable. Compared to wood which generally rots after some time, vinyl and aluminum are capable of withstanding more climate changes. However, aluminum is actually the window of choice for hurricane-frequented areas. Compared to vinyl, it can be 3 time stronger with less propensity to crack even after high pressure.

4) Insulation and Savings

For those who want to save money with their heat or air conditioning bills, going for vinyl would really help. This is because vinyl acts as wonderful insulation that can provide excellent room temperature without the aid of pricey utilities. On the other hand, aluminum is a definite loss at this point. This is because aluminum is a conductor and, therefore, does nothing in terms of the weather controlling and money saving in utilities.

5) Noise Reduction

Some people believe that vinyl windows perform better in terms of noise reduction. However, this isn’t the case at all and some studies have shown that aluminum fares better at this point.

6) Durability

In terms of longevity, both items are definitely at par with each other. The main difference falls on what damage the window develops overtime. For example, vinyl windows tend to get out of shape after being exposed to the weather while aluminum starts to lose their colorful luster. Hence, it really depends on how an individual would take up the maintenance of these window types.

Of course, aluminum versus vinyl windows showdown is not the only consideration that homeowners must make when deciding on the best window type for their home. The fact is that there are many options available in the market although most homeowners tend to choose between the two mentioned. This is because they are the best in the …

New Windows Installation for Your Older Home

If you bought an older home you know you have work to do. Your new home may have been a great deal, but you will be sinking money into it to improve it. You may need a new roof, new carpeting, new windows installation, new appliances, etc.

The easiest thing to do is to make a list of all of the home improvements you need to do on your older home. Once you make the list, put the most urgent items at the top and the least important items on the bottom of the list. Now check out what your budget is. You can do a little research on the cost of each of the items needed to be replaced or fixed. Now you can get ready to hire a professional to get the work done on your older home.

To go down your list, if your roof is leaking it is imperative that you get it fixed as soon as possible on your older home. You do not want water dripping through your roof, ceiling and onto your floor. Mold will form as well as the damp and cold air will seep into your home. If you let your roof go, you will end up spending more money on extra repair costs.

Next you may want to look into new windows installation in your older home. New windows can save you a lot of money as they are much more energy efficient than the windows made years ago.

You will want to hire a professional window installer to come and measure all of your windows or just those that you want replaced. He or she can give you an estimate on how much your windows will cost to replace. You can choose between different types of windows. There are windows that are sound proof.

You may choose a type of window that will shatter like a windshield if it breaks versus a window that will dangerously break with glass falling to the floor. Some windows claim to be self-cleaning while other windows simply push out for easy cleaning. The more benefits you have with your windows, the more costly they will become. You need to weigh out what is important to you and what is not. You may want to pay a little more for windows that practically clean themselves as you will not have to clean them every few months. Of course, with children and pets, you will end up cleaning your windows no matter what.

If all of the necessary items are in good condition you may move onto having carpet installed or some other cosmetic item to improve your home. Having new carpet installed by a professional into your home may uplift your spirits, give your home a fresh and clean look as well as brighten up your home.

Your older home can become the home of your dreams with a roof replacement, new windows installation, new carpeting, etc. …

Modern Double Glazing: How the New Design Bi-Fold Windows Will Improve Your Home

Double glazing is a technique that has been widely used by modern designers to reduce heat loss in buildings and impacts of noise pollution. This technology has been greatly advanced and led to the invention of the bi-fold windows and doors.

A bi-fold window or door has a series of about 2 to seven windows that are hinged to enable them fold onto themselves. These windows have incorporated the double glazing technique to create better functioning and more efficient window and door systems.

Bi-fold windows can totally open up a room. This is due to the fact that the window is a series of windows which can be opened, opening up a room and lighting it up effectively. Ventilation is improved when these windows are opened enabling ample air circulation in the building.

These windows and doors create space in a room. They allow more light in the room making it look more spacious. Bi-fold double glazed windows and doors have more versatility than normal double glazed ones. They are waterproof ensuring that no water gets into the building when it is raining.

Some may think that the several hinges might provide spaces for water to get into the building. However, the windows and doors are designed in a way that when they are closed, there are no spaces in between them to allow water to pass through. Energy efficiency is guaranteed. The double glazing technique ensures that very little heat is lost out of the building.

The air spaces between the glasses act as insulators preventing loss of heat via conduction and convection. A more efficient design has an E coating that ensures low emissivity rates. The coating reflects back long wave radiation from the surface of the building while at the same time transmitting shortwave radiation from the sun.

The bi-fold glasses are UV resistant. As much as they allow UV radiation to pass through, the intensities of this short wave radiation have no negative effect on them. This makes the windows and doors durable requiring very little maintenance. All one needs to do is clean the windows when they get dirty as dirt is an unavoidable environmental element. Accumulated dirt mostly corrodes glass. However, these doors and windows are corrosion resistant.

Installing BiFold Windows is easy. When they are bought, one is provided with a user manual that gives clear guidelines on how to fix them. These can also be easily removed in case of a problem.…

3 Easy Ways to Give Your Home a Facelift

Part of being a Northern Virginia homeowner is maintaining the property and making improvements from time to time. Putting a small investment into repairs will pay off in the long run by protecting the home from the elements and making it more comfortable for those living in it. The savvy homeowner will take the time to survey the home from time to time and look at items like windows, doorways, ceilings, floors and cabinets. Check for signs that the house is settling or is structurally unbalanced. When multiple projects need to be addressed, the homeowner should consult a group of Northern Virginia companies that work well together and can accomplish all projects in harmony.

Basic RepairSome projects are not difficult to do, but they require some spare time and know-how. Tasks like replacing rotted trim and other exterior wood, or interior trim and hardwood floors are much less expensive to have a Northern Virginia handyman service do the repair work than wait until it is completely destroyed and affecting other parts of the house. Replacement of kitchen cabinets, countertops, vinyl or ceramic tile and plumbing fixtures can be done rather than requiring a complete home remodel. At the change of seasons, a handyman repair service can also change out storm doors, clean out gutters and stormwater drainage areas around the home’s exterior. Minor electrical or plumbing repairs can be accomplished at the same time.

FoundationOne way a homeowner will know when there are foundation problems that need to be are by taking a home survey. Look inside at ceiling and wall joints for cracks, sagging and slopes. Look for cracks or buckling on the home’s exterior. This is especially noticeable in the masonry of Northern Virginia brick homes. When a home settles and the foundation is out of alignment, this may create a stair-step cracked appearance on the corners or sides. Large buckles where the home enters the ground, cracking in driveway or front walk, tree roots in the basement and uneven garage door entryways that prevent closure are other possible signs of trouble. Consult a contractor that specializes in foundation repair in Northern Virginia to do an inspection and fix any problems before they become too serious. A problem that is left undiagnosed and unrepaired may lead to other issues down the road.

WindowsWindows are an important indicator to the outside world of how well a home is being taken care of by the owner. Dirty or broken windows are an indication that it may be easy to break in without being noticed. Cracked or missing windowpanes can be easily fixed to prevent break-ins and to lower energy bills. All home windows eventually need to be replaced. Some signs that it’s time to replace rather than repair include cracked or broken glazing, warped wood and panes and widows that are stuck open or shut. Contractors that specialize in window repair in Northern Virginia can improve the look, feel and property …

Revitalize the Look of Your Home With an Exterior Makeover

Do you want to revitalize your home without spending a fortune on unnecessary trimmings and additions? Are you looking for affordable ways to improve the quality of your home? An exterior makeover will improve the appearance of your home in a practical and efficient way. You can replace or repair the windows, doors, siding, roofing, gutters, and porches of your home to give it an affordable and refreshing makeover.

Windows and Doors

Replacing your home’s windows and doors is one of the most efficient ways to improve the appearance of your home. Money might be wasted by small leaks or energy-deficient doors and windows, so consider switching them out for new ones. You can choose from a wide selection of window styles, including bay, double hung, casement, bow, and other specialty designs, to freshen up the look of your exterior. Not only will you improve your curbside appeal, but you will also start saving money with today’s modern, energy-efficient windows. If you want to replace your doors as well, consider a new color or style to add a subtle but individualized change. A new door can also help you save on heating and cooling bills.

Siding and Roofing

The siding and roofing of your house construct the shell that protects your home from nature. Both have a significant effect on the appearance of a house, but they are also a source of efficiency and shelter. If you want to make a drastic change, consider siding or roofing replacement. While this might be a more expensive exterior change, the investment could be well worth it. Your roof or siding might be damaged, allowing harm to come to the valuable interior of your home. By replacing your roof or siding, you will be making a worthy investment on both your home’s appearance and well-being.

Gutters

New gutters are an especially affordable means of making over your home. If your gutters are rusty, dented, or sagging, they could damage your home’s appearance. By simply replacing or repairing your gutters, you can refresh your home while better protecting it. Old gutters can allow water damage to foundations and interiors. To prevent this damage and subtly update your home, consider replacing your gutters.

Porches

If you want something completely new for your home, why not add a front or back porch? Not only will this bring something new to the look of your home, but it will also refresh the mood of it. You can take advantage of new opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends and family. This option also allows you to make an addition without the expenses of adding an interior room.

By following these tips for exterior makeovers, you can update the look of your home in no time. Whether you add some color or transform your home’s exterior, you’re sure to find one affordable and satisfying way to improve your appearance.…

Easy Custom Window Well Covers

You can purchase most size window well covers at your local home improvement store, most, but not all. In this article I will show you a quick and easy way to make your own covers, allowing plenty of light to enter the space, and allowing for the all important emergency exit.

Through the years I have found that making a template saves money in the long run. I strongly suggest you make yourself a cardboard template of the window well. You can square the shape off, as if it was a rectangle or square when you order the piece of Plexiglas.

It’s been my experience that the local big box stores don’t carry sheets of Plexiglas, so you will need to call your local glass company and order the piece of Plexiglas or Lexan, you will need for this project. Be sure to order A�” thick Plexiglas or Lexan, at a minimum. The difference in price will be substantial, with Lexan being shatter resistant. I went the Plexiglas route, but you will have to decide for yourself. Cutting the Plexiglas is pretty simple and straight forward. Install a plywood blade in your circular saw and a fine tooth blade in your jig saw. If you are not comfortable cutting it yourself, most glass companies will do it for you, for an additional charge. If you have them cut the Plexiglas, remember to bring your template for them to use, and don’t forget to ask for the cutoff pieces. You can use them for smaller fun projects like coasters and picture frames.

Next measure the distance across the back of the window well, the straight edge, against the house and buy a length of angled strut, to fit. You know the kind I am talking about, the metal angle that is commonly used to hang garage door tracks and openers. Anchor that angle to the back wall, so it will serve as a place for the new cover to sit on, making sure the top of it is level with the top of the window well. If the front edge is straight you can do the same to it. If you have a continuous curve then cut 2 or 3 pieces of strut about 1″ to 2″ long and attach them to the inside of the front edge, spacing them evenly, making sure you have at least 1 solid hole in each one.

Lay the newly cut Plexiglas cover on your new framed opening, carefully centering it into position, and making sure to keep it firmly against the back wall. You can drill down through the Plexiglas into the front edge angled strut a 5/16″ drill bit. When you’re done drilling drop a A�” clevis pin into each hole. You can secure each pin in place by slipping the locking clips into a hole in the clevis pin, from the inside. Now place a liberal bead of silicone (100% pure silicone) along the back edge and …

Need to Replace Your Windows? Consider Custom Windows

With Custom windows you become the designer with endless possibilities to choose from. You can custom design your windows to blend in with your homes existing architectural design. You have the freedom to design your wall space by grouping windows and doors to create dramatic effects or a quiet understated elegance.

Introduce light into your home in unusual ways with unique stained glass patterns and grill styles that will create lovely intricate patterns of light and shadows on your walls and ceilings.

Custom specialty windows are designed to excel way beyond conventional window and door treatments. You can choose from a variety of window styles including specialty shaped windows to create a stunning and beautiful accent window that will delight your relatives and guests. Don’t feel you have to be limited to rectangles or squares. You can choose curved or unusual angle shapes to create accent windows at the top of your stairs or in an entryway that can be a focal point for your home. Stained or patterned glass can complete the look in your choice of colors to suit your personal taste.

With the right window designs your outdoor scenery can be the focus of the room. Turn a large window into something visually stunning by grouping smaller windows around it and choosing dramatic window treatments to offset the view. Custom windows are the best value for the long term because installation is quicker with minimal changes needed to the inside and outside of your home.

Custom designed windows are made to your specifications, designed to fit precisely, ensuring energy efficiency. Using professional installers gives you that peace of mind that comes with knowing your custom windows will be properly installed.…

Driving In Adverse Conditions

You need to prepare for the unexpected when you’re out on the road, especially when driving in adverse conditions. With extreme weather becoming more frequent, it’s more important than ever to make sure your car is ready to weather everything from blizzards to heat waves and torrential downpours, and that you can respond calmly and promptly in the event of a breakdown.

Whether you’re driving on icy roads or your visibility is restricted by fog, driving slowly and carefully is essential – not only to protect yourself, your passengers and other people out on the road, but also to make sure you’re driving within the law. It is a legal requirement to use headlights in reduced visibility, and being aware of the extended braking times in wet weather could mean the difference between life and death.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, the scorching summer heat can also prove hazardous to drivers, especially those who are not used to warmer climates. Drowsiness brought on by heat can be as dangerous as other forms of tiredness and distractions behind the wheel, so it’s vital to keep your car well ventilated by winding down windows, and taking breaks in shaded areas if you feel the heat getting to you.

Just as drivers need to be aware of wet and slippery roads in the winter, extreme heat can similarly affect the surface of soft roads by melting the tarmac, which can cause a bumpy and uneven ride and even affect your steering and braking.

If you have an inkling of the weather before you set off, it’s essential to carry out a pre-journey check to make sure your vehicle is prepared. This includes making sure all systems are operating efficiently – everything from your lights to your windscreen wipers and water and oil levels – as well as kitting your car out with everything you’ll need in the event that you become stuck out on the road, including your trusty mobile phone, a torch and first aid kit.

While we don’t always have the luxury of knowing the weather in advance, some of these items can be kept in easily accessible places inside your car at all times. At the very least, keep an accident action pack within easy reach that contains the numbers for emergency services, your insurance company and local garages, if you need mobile glaziers to carry out services such as windscreen replacement.…

Windows 7 – Which One?

There are 5 different versions of Windows 7. Which one is right for you? In this article we are going to take a look at the 5 different versions to help you find out which choice to make.

First up is the Windows 7 Starter Edition. This is the most simple version. It is found installed on netbooks to help keep their costs down. However it has it’s shortcomings. It does not include a media centre, the Sniping Tool, Sticky Notes or support the Aero Glass interface. You cannot change the desktop background or run auto back ups to other computers that are on your network. In other words it’s very limited and not the best choice unless you are opting for a laptop that cannot handle the more adapt versions.

Windows 7 Home Basic is next up. This version is only available in countries that have a low average salary and the price of Windows is relatively high. It is designed for those who cannot afford the other versions due to being constrained by their countries economic situation.

Windows 7 Home Premium is probably the best option for those using their computer to carry out basic everyday tasks such as internet surfing, word processing, storing and viewing media.

It has most of the features of Windows 7 including the updated interfaces and the Media Center. It’s main limitations are that you cannot auto back up to another computer on your network or control using Remote Desktop another Windows 7 Home Premium computer.

Windows 7 Professional has all the bells and whistles of Home Premium along with the added bonus of being able to link the computer to a business domain network.

Windows 7 Enterprise and Windows 7 Ultimate are more or less one and the same depending on how much a company pays for the license. Ultimate is the more expensive. They both offer support for language packs, BitLocker and BranchCache. You also have the ability to boot from a virtual hard drive.

It is possible to upgrade at a later date if you find you need the benefits of one of the more sophisticated versions after purchasing. However it will save you money to buy the right one at the get go. You do not have the option to downgrade and get your cash back.

In conclusion the best option for the average user is Windows 7 Home Premium. It’s best to avoid Home Basic as it doesn’t offer much and Windows 7 Starter is only good for netbooks that can’t handle the more powerful versions or if your really strapped for cash and are not too bothered about missing out on the other features.

Windows Home Premium is a good choice as it meets the needs of most consumers. If you need the extras that Windows Professional and Ultimate offer then go for those otherwise Windows Home Premium will give you a purchase that you’ll be happy with.…

Benefits of Upgrading Your Home With UPVC Windows and Doors

Wise people know that having a house is actually the beginning rather than the end of finding a perfect abode for you. Once you have got your dream house, you need to make sure it stays so for as long as you intend to live within it and that needs lot of care and effort. In fact, that is why every once in a while wise home owners get into an appropriate home improvement project to ensure their dream home stays in best of its shape.

UPVC windows & doors are becoming one of the top priorities of home remodeling projects nowadays and for the right reasons. This not only re-strengthens a home infrastructure-wise, but it also adds to the aesthetic aspects of an abode, enabling home owners also serve well the d?�cor of their homes. People like to go for UPVC doors & windows because they not only uplift the condition of their homes, but also because they happen to be quite cost-effective.

A Suitable Replacement

Old doors and windows flaunting faded colors devalue a home and this is where UPVC windows serve as the perfect replacement for them. They are available in different colors and designs, with the added benefit of being maintenance free. Instead of going for the most “in” design & color, you better go for ones that go best with your home and lifestyle. You have to keep in mind that it is the doors and windows that are most evident in your property, when observed from a distance; so they need to look their best. It is not only about the color and design though; you also have to pick a material that is perfectly compatible with the structure of your home as well.

Energy Efficient Alternative

Style and strength are not the only perks of upgrading your home with UPVC windows & doors; they also contribute greatly in making your home energy efficient, as a result of which you get reduced bills and utility costs. As a matter of fact, there are manifold benefits of this kind of home remodeling. For example, triple glazed windows are especially known to serve energy efficiently, helping home owners get rid of paying extra sum of money every month in the name of bills.

Small Changes, Great Impacts

To some people, upgrading with UPVC windows and doors might seem like a trivial kind of home improvement, but this proves out to be something that can help your home shine like a jewel amidst your neighborhood.…

Is It Time For New Windows?

Some home improvement projects are very obvious, while others are not. Windows kind of fall into that gray area. Sometimes we can really see that they need to be replaced, but at other times the signs might not be quite as clear. In this article, we will discuss some of the surest signs that it’s time to replace your windows.

If you see condensation or a buildup of frost on your windows, it’s time to consider replacing them. These are both signs that moisture is leaking in because the glass is either worn, or might be pulling away from the frame. Since glass expands and contracts, this is something that typically occurs once windows age. Replace your windows and you’ll quickly see the condensation come to an end.

If the interior pane feels warm in summer months or cold in winter months, it’s time to say goodbye to your old windows. This is a sign that your windows aren’t as well-insulated as they once were. It means that air is creeping in through tiny spaces between the glass panes and the frame, causing your windows to be less energy efficient than they once were. When you replace those old and tired windows, you might see as much as a 50 percent decrease in your heating and cooling costs, due to their moderate to high R-value. The higher the R-value, (R-value: the ability of a material to resist heat flow) the greater the resistance and energy efficiency; which equates to more energy savings for you. This applies to both heating and cooling costs, meaning those new windows could pay for themselves in very little time.

If you try the candle test and the candle flickers, it might be time for a window home improvement project. This tip might not actually mean that it’s time to replace the windows. Sometimes if the candle flickers in only a couple of spots you can get away with just performing a caulking project. If you’re noticing an extensive draft though (by seeing the candle flicker at each and every one of your windows for instance), then it’s time to replace those old drafty windows with some new and energy efficient ones.

If you look at the exterior of your windows and see if they have rotting wood, cracked trim, or missing pieces of frame then head to the home improvement store to pick out your new windows. While one or two small cracks could certainly be repaired, if your windows are cracking and rotting extensively then you’re better off replacing them entirely. This is a sign that those windows have seen better days and unless you replace them, the rotting and cracking will only continue to get worse. When you take the time to install your new windows, you will not only see a savings on your energy bill, but an improved curb appeal for your home too.

If you have several windows that show signs of broken or …

Top Three Ways to Light Your Bathroom

Whether you have a large bathroom or a small one, bathrooms are one of the most used rooms in the house. And with so much time spent in the morning, afternoon and evening in the bathroom, it’s easy to see why getting the most out of this space is so important to most homeowners. No matter what you use your bathroom space for the most, one thing for certain; when you need to use it, being well-lit is the most important feature of the space. Use these three ways to light your bathroom space and you’ll be sure to get the most out of your bathroom area.

Task Lighting

One of the most important aspects of a bathroom space is the mirror and vanity area. More homeowners use this area more often than the toilet and shower combined. From makeup to brushing your teeth to trying on ties, a mirror and vanity have a thousand uses that are in need of great lighting to make the space work efficiently. That’s what makes task lighting such an important part of any bathroom space-the tasks. Task lighting solutions like can-lighting, monorail and bar lighting work best in and around the areas of the bathroom you use the most.

Natural Lighting

It’s very important to mix lighting sources, no matter what space in the home you light. Natural lighting in a bathroom space is a great way to get the most out of your most used space. Natural lighting from skylights, windows or even solar tubes are one of the best ways to help light a bathroom area. While skylights and other fixed glass is great for lighting, it doesn’t offer the best in ventilation. Hopper style windows offer one of the best windows for lighting and ventilation. Windows are the top choice for lighting and bathroom ventilation. Hopper windows open from the top so hot and humid air is easily ventilated while natural light shines through the space. Windows like awning, casement and single/double hung are some of the most commonly used window styles for a bathroom space. Be sure that no matter what type of window you install in your bathroom, the glass is tempered to prevent the dangerous hazards of broken glass in the bathroom. In some areas, tempered glass is required by the building code.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting sources are needed to help make a balance between the multiple light sources used in the bathroom space. One of the most common ways that ambient light is employed in the bathroom space is through the use of a fluorescent light. While this commonly used light works great for bathroom lighting, it’s not for everyone. An ambient lighting source can come from a wide variety of lighting fixtures and styles, so choosing the right style for you is simply a matter of taste. No matter what style of ambient light source you use, be sure that it’s above or in front on the …

Bulletproof Tips For a Healthy Home

You would think that in your house, you control the air quality. The truth of the matter is that all sorts of pollutants can infect the air of your home and increase your risk of respiratory problems and asthma. It used to be possible to feel like you were keeping out all of the world just by keeping the doors and windows closed in your home – but not anymore!

Today’s modern double paned windows and ultra-sealed doors have kept cooling and heating costs down. Unfortunately, these energy saving devices are also increasing the pollution inside of the home. Here are a number of ways that you can keep the air within your home clean and healthy.

Tip #1 – Don’t pick up your dry cleaning as soon as it’s finished. Let it stay at the dry cleaner for a few days. The chemicals used by dry cleaners can be very harmful to humans. Some of them have been shown to cause neurological damage and even cancer. Before you bring your clothes home, ensure that they are 100% dry and free of any cleaning chemicals. When you don’t let the clothes dry, those chemicals are transferred onto your skin and into your lungs. It’s also a good idea to try and use an all-natural dry cleaner. These dry cleaners use non-toxic and ecologically sound dry cleaning methods.

Tip #2 – Leave your shoes outside of your house or in your entrance way. When you walk around outside, your shoes come in contact with many contaminants – even in “clean” places like hospitals. Your daily activities cause the bottom of your sneakers to get coated in dirt, germs and bacteria. Every time you walk around, these particles get mixed into the air that you breathe. If you take off your footwear outdoors or inside the entry way of your house, you lower this risk significantly.

Tip #3 – Maintain proper ventilation in your home. It’s ironic that installing modern doors and windows to give you better control over your home’s temperature can also cause problems. Leaving the windows sealed forces you to breath in many contaminants every day. After you dust or vacuum, the dust mites that get kicked up can’t escape. Smoke and fumes from cooking food and frying on your stove float around your house for a long period of time. Steam from a hot shower can cause mold to form on your walls. You can then breathe it in and get sick. Make sure to open your windows and turn on the exhaust fans when cooking, cleaning or bathing. Give all of the bad stuff a chance to leave your home.

There are many ways to make your house healthier. Remember, coming home to a clean house doesn’t mean that all of the challenges of the world get shut out. Take several steps each day to make your house a healthy, pollution free zone.…

Tips for Window Glass Replacement

Replacing the windows in your home can quickly become a pretty large project. While it may have started by your needing to fix one window, you may have realized that replacing all of the windows in your home can actually help you to save a lot of money and make your home a safer place. If you live in the Vancouver area then you will likely want to look for a local glass company to help you out.

One of the major benefits of window home replacements is that you can save a lot of money on your energy bill. Older homes typically are built with thin glass windows that don’t do much to keep the warm air in your home during the winter and to keep the cold air in during the summer. Because of this, older houses usually end up spending a fortune on their heating and cooling bills. When you upgrade your windows to that of double paned windows with an insulation gas between the panes, then you can rest assured that your house will be much better able to maintain a certain level of hot or cool.

Another benefit of having a glass company come and help you with your window work is that it can actually make your home a lot safer. If you have an older home then chances are the windows may have some cracks or there may be areas that have been damaged that could allow rodents or insects to find their way into your home. Newer windows will ensure that the spaces are controlled and also the thicker glass can be protective against projectiles, weather, and also criminals.

When looking for the right window glass replacement company in Vancouver WA, make sure that you do some research on their websites and ask around to friends and family to see what services they have used in the past. You want to make sure that you are getting the best deal for your money and that you are going to hire someone that will do a good job.

You might also look for someone that does both residential and commercial work and then ask for a list of previous jobs they have done so that you can ask a few references what they thought about the company. This will help to give you a good overall view of what the company is all about and whether or not they are worth going with.…

Shattered Panes, Broken Windows – A Guide to Glass Replacement

The only way to keep your belongings and valuables completely safe is to wrap them in cotton wool and ring-fence your house with a projectile-defying brick wall and electric fence. But then again, what sort of existence is that?

Indeed, accidents will always happen and whether it’s a neighbourhood kid booting a ball into your greenhouse or a gale-force wind dislodging an elm tree into your bathroom window, you have to adopt a somewhat matter-of-fact attitude to your misfortune – shrug your shoulders and get on with life.

Indeed, if you are unlucky enough to experience broken windows in your home, your first concern should be your safety. Shattered or broken glass poses some health issues and if you’re planning on clearing shards of glass from the ground, make sure you have thick, padded gloves on to collect the biggest pieces and a broom and dustpan for the smaller pieces.

Your next concern should be the repair. Home glass replacement is an activity that can be lumped in with the likes of electrical rewiring and sink-fitting – it really is best left to the experts, so don’t be a have-a-go hero when it comes to replacing a broken window.

If a window in your home suffers a slight crack, don’t be tempted by the masking tape option either – once a crack is there, the whole pane of glass is weakened and it’s more susceptible to shattering.

If you could choose a time for your windows to break, then that would be the ideal scenario – and you might choose a Monday afternoon when you just happen to be off work: a quick call to the local glaziers and have it replaced in a couple of hours. Fate doesn’t work like that – your windows can break at any time of day, which is why many window glass repair services are operational 24/7.

With some things, it’s really best not to cut corners. If you needed a new fuse-box fitted in your kitchen, the chances are you wouldn’t attempt it yourself and you would go with a reputable electrician who is fully indemnified – if anything goes wrong you could otherwise be in trouble.

The same principles apply when fitting new glass in your home: check that the workmanship is fully guaranteed and that the people installing it are fully covered should anything go wrong. It makes sense and it could save you a lot of money in the long run.…

Home Security Essentials – Even the Basic Home Security System Will Give You Peace of Mind

When it comes to protecting your loved ones your home security should never be compromised. Sometimes, chains, padlocks, or even fences just aren’t enough because burglars nowadays use sophisticated gadgets to break into your homes.

Just the home security essentials will provide you with peace of mind that your home is protected.

Most burglars are just plain lazy which is one of the reasons they choose the profession they practice.

If your home is protected, even if it is only the bare home security essentials, than most burglars will choose an easier target.

Using the best home protection you can afford for your property and family is a smart move. The cost of owning a burglar alarm has come down so much that it is affordable for almost everyone. It just is not worth the risk to have no protection.

In the United States, a burglary occurs every 15 seconds. Burglary costs homeowners an average of $1700 a year. Quite often people don’t even consider a burglar alarm until something bad happens. Once your home and family has been compromised no amount of protection will ever be able to buy back that sense of security that you have loss. Don’t wait until your family has been violated.

The home security essentials of a basic alarm system include a main control unit, a keypad, siren, door sensors, and a motion detector. The main control unit needs to be installed in a secure location (an area protected by the system). If it your alarm system is hard wired versus wireless than you will want a location that is easy to run all the wires to.

The keypad needs to be located near your main entrance so that you can easily arm and disarm the system. Most homes have two or three entrances and these doors will need to have magnetic sensors attached to them. These sensors will send a message to the control unit when the door is opened.

Since most burglars will enter right through the front door these are imperative to a good home security system.

The indoor siren needs to be in a location where it will have the most impact. Contrary to popular belief you do not want the siren outside the home. In most communities it is illegal to put the siren outside the home. The neighbors will only complain anyhow… they will not come to your rescue. (When is the last time you ran for help when you heard a siren?) Inside the home the siren will have the most effect because if there is an intruder in your home and the siren goes off the intruder will want to leave as quickly as possible. The siren is designed to make the intruder panic and run. The siren will also wake you up if you are sleeping.

The motion detector is the last part of the home security essentials. If …

Vinyl Windows For Your Home – 5 Simple Ways You Can Tell If You’re Flushing Money Down the Drain

Replacing your old, inefficient windows with updated vinyl windows can have a dramatic impact on how much money you send away to the gas and electric company every month, unnecessarily. No one wants to spend more than they have to on anything and with replacement windows, it’s such an easy way to save a lot of money on the ever increasing energy costs. It’s not uncommon for people to see a savings of 30%-40% on their energy bills from the previous 12 months after replacing their old windows.

Most homeowners have a general idea that they may need to replace their windows, but they don’t realize just how bad they have become over the years (or how bad they were to begin with!). Here are the five biggest indicators that you should seriously consider new vinyl windows sooner than later:

Your window frames are aluminum (or any other type of metal). Metal is a natural conductor and it can never be as efficient as wood or vinyl windows. If you have metal windows, go put your hand close to the frame when it’s very hot or very cold outside. You will be able to feel the temperature radiating from the frame. Not good.

You have only a single pane of glass separating the inside of your home from the outside elements. Glass alone is not a very good insulator. In fact, a single pane of glass has an R value of less than 1. (R value measures resistance to heat. The higher the number, the more efficient the product. Your attic is around an R 30.) To get a much better insulation factor, you need at least two panes of glass with some form of dense gas between the panes such as Argon or Krypton. This will provide up to an R12, depending upon several factors, which will make a huge difference in your energy bills every month.

There is moisture in between the panes of glass in the vinyl windows you have right now. If there is moisture in between the panes of glass, this tells you that the seal has been broken and all the dense gas that acts as the insulation has escaped. Now you basically have two single panes of glass, and that’s it. This adds up to slightly less than an R 2 which isn’t much better than having just one pane of glass.

You have no low-E coating on your glass. How can you tell if you don’t have any Low-E coating? If the sun is shining through your windows and it feels as if you’re in sitting under a heat lamp, you don’t have this critical coating on your windows. This basically gives your home the “Green House Effect”. This might be acceptable in the winter as it can help keep things warm, but it is killing your cooling costs in the summertime. Low-E …

Home Improvment, How Not To Fix Plaster

When you are a property manager for you own rentals, you learn a lot about fixing up a place. One day, a tenant called about an issue in his bathroom, he said the ceiling was drooping down a little. So I head over to assess the damage and repair. When I got there, I could hardly get the bathroom door open! The ceiling was hanging down about 2 feet, obviously a slow leak from the bathroom upstairs. I begin by cutting sections of the drywall that’s hanging down, a whole 4*8 sheet by-the-way. I thought I was doing great, I cut small sections and let them drop into a bucket. I was really doing a good job, not one mess on the floor. After about the second time I emptied the bucket, the last cut I made, must have weakened the rest of the ceiling. And here I thought I was removing weight from the board. To say the least, the entire ceiling collapsed on me, I was covered in drywall and so was the rest of the bathroom! Oh well, so much for not making a mess. From there I found what was leaking upstairs and took care of that issue. Now it was time for a new sheet of drywall and a lot of cleaning downstairs.

Well, I got the place cleaned up, at least the big pieces of drywall. Then I got the new ceiling up and got it taped and mudded. Now it was time to let it dry so I could take care of the sanding and painting. I looked over at the window sill, and saw that there was some loose plaster. Well, I thought, I might as well fix that since I’ve got to paint the whole bathroom anyway. And that’s when it got real interesting.

I took my trusty scrapper and scrapped the window sill. Well, about half of the sill fell onto the floor! I really didn’t scrap very hard. After a few more light scraps, I was missing the entire left and lower sill, not to mention a good quarter of the upper sill and even a good portion of the wall. In the meantime, my wife came by with lunch. I sent her to the home improvement store for a gallon of wood putty. (Oh, did I tell you, I was new at the time?) While I’m cleaning up my NEW mess and making the hole bigger and bigger, she runs to the store for me. She asks for a gallon of wood putty, and the guy asks her with a perplexed look “What are trying to do?” Hey, I didn’t know what else to ask for. He sent her back with a big bag of Fix-All. To this day, I love Fix-All! I think I could build a house with it after this situation. OK, now it’s time for the second repair.

Now that most of the wall is missing, it …

Akron’s Top Home Improvement Project – Six Things You Should Know About Window Replacement

Replacing the windows in your home is one the most popular home improvement projects in the Akron area. The reason is simple–homeowners receive multiple benefits from this one project. In addition to significantly lowering your energy bills, replacement windows will help increase your home’s value, improve the exterior and interior appearance, and eliminate maintenance. However, most people are overwhelmed with process of choosing the right windows for their home. Here are the top six things that will make the process easier.

1. Choose a reputable company-There are lots of resources to help you choose a good company and product. The local BBB is a good place to start. Make the sure the company is accredited by the BBB. Also, Angie’s list is another great resource. You’ll need to be a member, but you can sign up for a few dollars. Look for companies with the Super Service award on Angie’s list-they are the top 5% in the category. Finally, protect yourself and make the sure the company is licensed, bonded, insured, and the workers are covered by Workman’s Compensation. Be sure to ask.

2. The spacer material between the glass panes is the key to performance and longevity-Not all spacers, the material between the glass panes, are created equally. There are three basic types of spacers: Intercept spacers, full box metal spacers, and structural foam spacers known as Super Spacers. Choosing the right spacer will lead to higher performance and longevity for your home improvement project.

Intercept spacers are the most commonly used in replacement windows because they are inexpensive (made of tin) and are easy to manufacture. They are a U-shaped channel in between the glass. Full box metal spacers are square pieces of aluminum. They are also inexpensive to manufacture.

Although less expensive upfront, there is a downside to using metal spacers. Both intercept and full box metal spacers expand and contract, as that is the property of metal, with temperature swings. This expansion and contraction of metal spacers allows for three undesirable things to occur: colder and warmer temperatures around the edges of the panes (18.6 degrees colder than structural foam spacers), a higher occurrence of seal failure (in as little as three years as tested by the National Fenestration Rating Council–NFRC) which allows the gas to escape leading to fogged or inefficient windows, and condensation promoting mold growth.

Windows with structural foam spacers-Super Spacers-perform the best. Developed by Edgetech for NASA, this material prevents the problems associated with metal spaces above. Expect to pay more for these spaces. But the extra upfront cost is worth it.

3. Not all warranties are the same: read them-All warranties are “limited” (i.e. excludes vandalism, acts of nature) and most are “lifetime,” but not all are the same. For example, a limited lifetime warranty from a well-known big brand covers 10 years on the parts and frame, 20 years on the glass and two years on …

How To Measure Windows For Your New Blinds

The main benefit of blinds as opposed to curtains is to keep out the strong hot sun in the summer time and let in the warm sunshine in the colder seasons. While providing beautiful accents to your windows and the room in general, window blinds also protect your furniture from being faded by strong sunlight. You can adjust them to allow light to filter into the room without allowing fading rays onto the furniture.

When ordering specialised custom blinds for the windows in your home, you will need to provide precise measurements to the company when you place your order. There are several important things to consider when measuring your windows for your new blinds. By taking special care to be precise and accurate, you will ensure the right measurements and therefore proper fitting blinds. Many custom made window blinds cannot be returned if they do not fit, so it is important that your measurements be right. Here are some important tips for ensuring your windows are measured properly:

•First, decide if your new window blinds will be inside mounted or outside mounted. Inside mounted blinds mean that the hardware will be recessed within the window opening. Outside mounted means the hardware for the blinds will be mounted on the wall outside of the window casing.

•Never assume the windows are the same size, even if they appear to be. Many windows vary just a bit here and there, enough to throw off the measurements and cause one-size-fits-all blinds not to fit.

•Use a steel measuring tape in measuring the windows. A cloth measuring tape cannot be depended upon when it comes to accuracy in measuring your windows.

•Record measurements as width x height. This is the industry standard for all window blinds and shades.

•Always, always double check your measurements to ensure accuracy. Many custom window blinds cannot be returned, so you want to be sure to get it right the first time.

•Measure window sizes to the nearest eighth of an inch.

•Never, ever measure existing blinds. Always measure the window frame, not the blinds.

If following these simple steps before purchasing your new blinds, you can be sure not to have any disappointment when fitting in the new piece of decor. Window blinds can match the room’s decor and provide a certain atmosphere while providing light control for different times of day and various activities. From living rooms and bedrooms to kitchens and family rooms, beautiful blinds with quality function are a great asset to any home.…

A Short Guide to Window Replacement

Hot summer months often entail the increase of energy consumption, the same goes for cool months. Some may argue that cooler months would mean a lower energy utility bill. This can be true for some people and false for others. The reason is that people fail to realize that more energy is consumed in cold months because their window is in dire need of replacement. Now what does a window have anything to do with an increase in energy consumption? Windows that are old and outdated tend to have cracks or gaps where cold air can flow through, thus even with it shut your heater requires more energy to keep the room warm and toasty for you. Window replacements can offer you home better overall ventilation for the hot summer heat or the cold chilly winter nights.

Since we are on the matter of replacing windows, you are perhaps wondering which option is best for your home. For instance, residential windows in vinyl have some obvious advantages: the types are energy efficient and are low maintenance. They have the capability to considerably reduce noise. Last but definitely not the least, those who are worried about the impact of construction waste to the environment will be happy to know that this type of window can be recycled. Made of high R-value material, this basically entails that it is able to provide ample insulation. Its popularity is based on the fact that it’s a cost effective alternative to wood, fiberglass, and aluminum.

Considerations

If you have come to accept that you require a window replacement before the cold season kicks in, then you should select the proper window that will suit your needs perfectly. For starters, decide on the reason why your existing windows require replacement. By doing this step you will be able to determine the characteristics that you will need to have in the replacement. Qualities may include: the type of material, style, upkeep, energy efficiency, etc. Another vital aspect that should be thought of is pricing. Figure out your budget, the amount you are willing to pay for when you decide to go shopping. Additionally you must have already figured out how many pieces you are planning to replace and purchase. This will affect the total cost and also the style of window you will be able to buy.

Window Materials

Materials and style selection is important since it will play an essential role in the overall appearance of your home as well as the amount of maintenance it needs. You may select various designs and style for various spaces in your house. This again will be dependent on your personal preferences and needs. Lastly, always employ a reputable window replacement service. Take some time to conduct a bit of research, browse through reviews and look for experts, and their expertise as well as quality professional output will easily outweigh their rates. Basically if your windows are installed correctly with a design that …

It’s Time to Take Another Look at Aluminum Windows

There are multiple options out there if you are looking for a new window. One of the more popular types is the aluminum windows. There are also the combination Aluminum windows which are aluminum on the outside, double glazing in the middle and wood on the inside. This type is becoming more and more popular and affordable every day. If you have not looked into the combination aluminum window now is a good time to check them out for your home.

Low maintenance windows are another type that you might want to look into. The durability of the aluminum windows have improved over the years. They are able to withstand the elements better and better each year. Most aluminum windows are pretty sturdy and can withstand what nature throws at them. The interior wood is treated and comes with a long lasting protective finish which makes them practical and easy to clean.

It’s easy to see the stylish look of an aluminum window. You can customize what size, configuration and shape you want so that it matches your home. The colors can be selected both for the Aluminum and the wood finishes on the inside. The low profile aluminum will not be highly visible from the inside of your house but will look very flashy on the outside. It is not hard to find a window that looks however you need and want you window to look.

As the windows are manufactured off site to fit your exact measurements the only other cost you will deal with is the instillation. They come complete with handles and fittings so you don’t have to spend extra time and money selecting these once the windows have been installed. It is even possible, if you are lucky, to fit the new windows into existing frames without having to alter existing architraves significantly.

If you are looking into getting some new windows aluminum windows should be at the top of your list. They are good looking, very cost efficient and most of the time pretty easy to install.…

New Storm Windows Add Up to Wise Home Improvement

If you have old windows in your home, in all probability the old windows are leaking quite a bit of air, which makes the house chilly in the winter and costs more to cool in the summer months. Leaky windows could even be harming your house by allowing windblown rain to seep into the structure. One of the best home improvement tasks you can do as a homeowner is to install some high quality storm windows. A good storm window can fend off cold air better much better than a replacement window and it also costs less to install storm windows. You can install the windows yourself in less time than it takes to install a window.

When shopping for storm windows, be sure that you choose good quality windows. Many storm windows sold at home improvement stores are made rather poorly, with weak corners and with weatherstripping that does not fit tightly enough around the edges of the window frame. For a double-hung window, a triple-track storm window is ideal. This type of window has two glass panes and one screen, each on their own track. If you prefer to have your windows open in the summertime, you can purchase another screen sash and put it in the top of the window by taking out the pane of glass on top.

Once you have measured the windows of your home and have purchased your storm windows, you must first scrape away any built up paint if needed. Next set the storm window in place in the opening. Be sure that it is sitting square and that the windows slide open and closed with ease. If the stop on the window is narrower than the window flange, you can cute the flange using tin snippers if necessary. You will now need to drill screw holes in the flange if holes are not already there. Space the screw holes about eight inches apart. Next you should apply a good amount of silicone or window caulk along the flange along the top and the sides, but not the sill. Home improvement stores sell caulking and silicone, and it is up to you which you prefer to use. Silicone dries clear, while caulking dries white.

Now, in order for the storm window to fit, you will have to tilt it into the opening. Be sure to get it into the correct position the first time so that you do not smear the caulk. Press the flanges into the caulk to ensure that it seals all along the sides as well as the top. Next you must put a screw into the middle of the top flange and into the side flanges near the bottom. Make sure that the window is aligned correctly before driving the remaining screws. Scrape the caulk away that has leaked out due to the pressure applied. For the bottom of the storm windows, you should drive screws into the sill …

Make Your Home More Valuable

Everyone wants to make their home more valuable. But with the right home improvement projects, you’ll be able to increase the value of your home without spending more than you make. After all, getting a good return on your initial investment is what it’s all about. Use these great ideas for increasing your home’s value and be sure to grow your homes worth and your love for it.

Window Replacement

Old and dated windows can really be an eyesore. Not only do they decrease a home’s value, they all decrease the energy efficiency of your home. This can make energy bills soar during the summer and winter months when heating and cooling needs increase. New windows help to ensure that your homes overall value will increase significantly. You can even increase the value further by installing storm or hurricane windows. These high strength windows can prevent strong winds from breaking during hurricanes and tornado, ensuring even more damages happen. But besides being able to prevent storm damages, they can also help prevent burglary and home invasions. Some storm windows can take impacts of up to 135 Mph or more!

Landscaping

If you need to increase your homes curb appeal to increase its value, nothing beats the price and returns of a professional landscaping job. Landscaping features are a cost effective way to increase the look of your home and property. Even if you own a townhouse, landscaping with window boxes can add the curb appeal your home needs to increase its overall value and make your home look good.

Front Entry Door

Another great way to increase curb appeal is by adding onto the front entryway of your home. This area of the home can increase a home’s value significantly simply because of its visibility throughout the inside and outside of the home. Front entryway doors are a great investment with an even better return. Many front doors can be installed with a window insert, increasing the home’s value as well as the amount of natural light in the door. Add sidelights or a French style double door to your entryway and increase your home’s value even more.

Kitchen Makeover

Nothing brings down home value like a dated kitchen. When appliances, counter-tops and flooring are old and out of date in a kitchen space, you can bet that it’s going to be tough to sell. With the addition of a new counter-top, cabinets, flooring and appliances, you’ll be sure to increase the overall value of your home and get a great return on your investment.

Siding

The exterior of your home can really benefit from new siding. Siding can make your homes outside walls look brand new again. With the addition of a new exterior insulation, your siding project can make up for the costs in no time at all with huge energy savings. And because siding comes in a huge variety of styles, shapes, sizes, colors and materials, you’ll be able to find the …

Solar energy is one of the best options for producing alternative electricity that is environmentally friendly. Through solar panel technology, currently solar power can be used independently at home.

Currently, there are more and more companies that provide technology and services for installing solar panels at home. Generally, the cost is around IDR 20 million-30 million based on the amount of electricity that can be generated.

If you are interested in installing it, you can make a rough estimate of the cost through this link from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources .

You need to know the area of ​​​​the roof that you want to install the panels, the direction and angle of the roof slope, as well as the electrical power installed in your home. Although it requires relatively large costs during installation, the use of solar panels has significant advantages that can be enjoyed in the long term. Not only personally, but also more broadly for the Earth’s environment.

Reporting from community solar projects, here are the advantages of using solar panels.

1. Save on Monthly Electricity Costs Although it requires relatively large costs when installing, using solar panels in the long term will provide financial benefits for users. Because it comes from unlimited solar energy, solar panel users can reduce or even be free from having to pay monthly electricity bills to the state electricity provider company, or PLN, in Indonesia. As is known, electricity rates also continue to increase periodically.

2. Multifunction Besides being able to be used to generate electricity, solar panels can also be used to generate heat or solar thermal. Small-scale thermal solar for homes, generally can be used as room heaters, water heaters, and swimming pool heaters.

3. Minimal Maintenance Costs Solar panels do not require complicated and excessive maintenance. It is enough to clean it regularly every month, the solar panel device will still be well maintained. Solar panel devices generally can last up to tens to tens of years. Generally, solar panel provider companies also have qualified solar panel maintenance services.

4. Contribution to Saving the Environment It is undeniable that the Earth is currently experiencing a significant increase in temperature and global warming. Switching to using solar panels can be one of the real steps in saving the earth. Especially in Indonesia, where the majority of electricity still comes from burning coal which is not environmentally friendly. (M-2)

…

Installing a New Window Is Easier Than You Think

More and more of today’s homeowners are opting out for interior designs, thanks in part to the many DIY television series that give people cheap and easy home improvement projects ideas that they can do themselves. The truth of the matter is, when it comes to larger home improvement projects, it’s better-and often cheaper to hire a professional to do the project for them. But just because you have to hire a pro to get the most out of your home improvement project, doesn’t mean that you aren’t going get a good return on your investment. Installing new windows in your home can be a great way to increase curb appeal, resale power and grow value from your home. And it’s easier than you think. Use this guide to window replacement and see for yourself why installing new windows may be easier than you think.

Finding the Right Window Installer

One of the most important parts of getting the most out of your new windows is finding the right installer. After all, you can install the most expensive windows, but they are only going to be as good as the window replacement company that installed them. That’s why finding the best installer is so important. But when every window installer in the area claims to be the best, it’s tough to find the best of the best.

There are three key parts to helping you find the best window installer in your area. Use these three tips for finding the right window installer and you can’t go wrong.

• Licensing and Insurance – Without the right insurance and licensing, you as a homeowner run the risk of losing money if someone gets hurt, materials are damaged or your windows get stolen. Be sure that before you ask for a bid, you verify your window replacement companies licensing and insurance.

• References – The right insurance and licensing ensures that you’re going to get someone who can legally do the job, but it doesn’t mean that they are going to do the best job. References from past customers help you to find the best window installer in your area.

• Multiple Quotes – Don’t just pick one window installer and go with them! Be sure to get at least three bids from multiple window installers. Make certain that you get a cost breakdown of materials and labor as well. This way, you can compare between the bids effectively and find out who really has the best deal.

Replacement Times

Many homeowners think that installing a new window (or window) is difficult, time consuming and makes a mess in your home. This often makes people shy away from these types of home improvement projects. But you don’t have make a mess, take a ton of time or cost you fortune to get the job done. Make sure that whomever you hire for your window replacement project, you get a specific completion date for …

Various UPVC Windows Prices Available

The UPVC windows prices greatly vary, as there are so many different types of UPVC windows available. For updated windows price, you would need to check with your local retailer, as prices change. You can also attempt to find UPVC windows prices online, but you will usually need to register at each of the sites that have the windows available, fill out a form, and request information for a quote. At that point, a sales person will call you giving you all of the information you will need about UPVC windows..

There are windows that have the side hung or outward opening. These are the most popular designs and the UPVC windows prices for this type are also cost effective. There are also sliding sash ones, which are available with Georgian bars or without. This style is a bit more traditional. You can find some that look exactly like timber, but the maintenance on them is much easier than it would be if the windows were actually made of wood. This also makes the UPVC windows prices make a lot of sense.

These strong windows are also not vulnerable to the elements, as wood would be, as they will not rot or warp, so the windows prices will be worth it. Even the cleaning inside and outside of the glass is easy, as they tilt once they are opened. This is for emergency escapes, as well.

When a house has been designed with more square and smaller framework, the tilt and turn windows are usually used. The frames have the ability to have sashes with larger openings than the outward opening window, again making the UPVC windows worth every penny. These open inward from a hinge on the bottom of the window and give approximately six inches, or 150mm of ventilation.

There are also special ordered windows, such as round windows, or those with a curved head at great double glazing window prices. Additionally, an appearance of a cottage type of home can be given to the windows by installing sections of the different fitted shapes at the tops of these curved windows. And there is also the pivoting type whose sashes open to a pivoting point. It practically turns these windows inside out, making it extremely easy to maintain and clean, another UPVC windows prices justification.

Since these windows will not fade or decompose with age, the windows prices make sense. The multiple chambers that are built into the frame are very much like a double glazed window chamber, making them very energy efficient, again justifying the prices. The built in gaskets make them also less susceptible to condensation, providing a water tight seal. They greatly cut down on noise, and have locks built in, as well. And their metal reinforcement provides great strength.

If you need help measuring your windows, a sales person will be happy to assist you. It does take a bit of skill, and perhaps the person who will be …

Vinyl Window Repair Options

If only your home windows is like the window in the computer. You could just restart if things get dirty, use system restore if something breaks or something goes wrong, use repair disks function if a certain part is broken or simply reformat when nothing else seems to work. Imagine if you could just do this kind of things in your actual home windows, wouldn’t that be a treat?

To fix a window properly, one must understand the basics of a window installation. Usually, if a house is made of stone and cement, the windows are mounted on steel frames and junctions and can never be moved, ever. If you wish to move it or relocate it, you will have to dismount the whole window, and yes that includes destroying a part of your home. Today however, replacement windows have replaced this gruesome process. One isn’t obliged to dismount the whole window. Replacements can be installed on an existing frame and comes in a variety of designs and materials to choose from.

Vinyl windows are available for sale in unbelievable prices as per quality and aesthetic value. Vinyl windows are also durable and flexible and come in all colors and sizes. Window repair has never been so easy thanks to vinyl replacements. It is quite simple to attach a replacement window to an existing frame. Simply remove the old window from the frame, fit a vinyl window of the right size to window and apply adhesives. It is that simple that even a single person can do it.

While not always the problem some people can have trouble installing vinyl replacements for window repair. If this happens there are always professionals who can help in redecorating your home and do the usual tweaks and spins for you to achieve the home that you love and truly deserve.…

Windshield Replacement and Repair – Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Your Damaged Window

Windshield replacement and repair is something people should not ignore. Many people do not realize it is an important consideration for the front windshield of your vehicle to be replaced or repaired when damage is done. Often times, your windshield is the only thing that can protect you and your passengers from harmful flying elements while driving. In some cases, a full window replacement may not be necessary. A cheaper and quicker alternative would be getting a windshield repair instead.

Very often, drivers on the road will ignore the small chips and cracks they get caused by flying rocks, debris, or minor collision. It is important to take good care of your windshield, making sure they are free of any defects. A properly done replacement or repair would not only be a good investment, but you will be ensuring a higher level of protection for you and your passengers while driving.

Ignoring the small chips and cracks that you receive while driving for a long period of time can or will lead you to bigger problems. It was proven that stresses like extreme temperatures, driving and fatigue stress will cause your windshield’s chips and cracks to spread quicker. In the beginning when they first start out, they may seem small and not a problem, but over time it will weaken the glass and the cracks may spread corner to corner, horizontal or vertical, in any direction. It could be illegal in your states if the cracks impede your ability to safely see and drive your vehicle.

So the next time while you are driving out in the road, after a fresh clean car wash and clear windows, see if you notice any small chips on your windshield, if so then think about calling in a shop to get those chips or cracks repaired. Most auto glass shops will provide you with a mobile service, which means they will come to your home or work, or where ever you ask them to, to provide you with their services. The repair cost averages between $20-$70 dollars, depending on your location or shop, and chip or crack sizes. Keep in mind, most auto insurance companies will cover the cost of your window replacement or repair, depending on your coverage, but often times auto insurers will cover the full price of the repairs with no deductible, to avoid the more expensive alternative, a full windshield replacement. So don’t be afraid to take that advantage, it may be part of your policy, and it would be a waste of your hard earn money going to auto insurance if you don’t.

If you live in an area where an auto glass shop is a hard reach, or maybe you live in an area where you usually get these chips and cracks, then consider buying your own windshield repair kit. You can usually buy them online, and depending on where and what you order, prices …

Looking for Cheap Home Replacement Windows?

If you have tried hunting for replacement windows, you would probably have discovered that their prices are a big hurt to your pocket. Here are some ways to find for cheap home replacement windows which would lessen that damage a little.

First of all, avoid branded names when it comes to home replacement windows. Branded ones would typically carry ‘branded’ price tags. Even for their lowest grade windows, their price would be as expensive as a non-branded good grade replacement window. You should also avoid windows that are marked as architectural grade as they are like being branded in the form of grades. Look for contractor grades instead.

When it comes to choosing styles, choosing the most common shape would be the cheapest. This is because they are easily mass produced, which in turn allows them to sell them at a cheaper price. Replacement windows with uncommon shapes like curved, circles, hexagons, bays, or bows would require a more complicated building process. Those that are common are like double-hung, sliders, fixed, or casement windows.

Apart from that, keep to the cheaper materials. Vinyl is much cheaper than wood or fiberglass and they come with many advantages like being energy efficient. This cheaper material is even more practical than using wood anyway.

As tempting as it may seem, you may not need to go for every special feature. For example, if you live in a tropical climate which weather is typically cool and do not experience harsh weathers, you may not really need to care for energy saving features of a window. Think well if you really need some features, and some features, like burglar latches, generally should not be put a price tag.

While buying from an authorized dealer may seem as though you would get a reliable service, you can actually consider non-authorized ones as well. Authorized dealers typically offer a specific brand, so your mind would be set to selecting only those that you find in the store. Broaden your choices by visiting other stores and you may find one that will work better for you.

Last but not least, negotiate. Whether it is an authorized or non-authorized dealer, there is always a chance that you will strike a good deal.…

Benefits of Home Window Tinting

Many home owners are looking for different ways of making their home windows appear beautiful without compromising on their basic functions of providing light, ventilation, security and privacy. Although for a long time tinting was a preserve of cars and office windows home window tinting has become a popular choice for home owners.

Most window tints are made up of thin films with a single or several layers of polyester base and a scratch-resistant coating and are fixed on the interior side of the windows with a strong adhesive. They are mostly used for many reasons. They are available in many shades and colors ranging from opaque to clear which when selected would enhance the architectural design of the home. Different colors or designs can be used together to provide a great outlook for the home.

Window tints protect the window from becoming too hot or too cold according to the type of climate. It is also beneficial since they act as a safety mechanism in preventing breakage of glass in case of any situations that will cause strain to it. The glare of the sun often causes the fading of items in the home thus Home window tinting is useful in curbing this as it contains sun-barrier additives to obstruct the entry of the sun’s glare.

Home windows increase air conditioning costs in summer due to the amount of heat they let into the house. To reduce this and make the home energy efficient, window tints are a good choice due to the type of materials they are made of. Energy saving element of window tints depend on the type, location of the house and tree shading. Window tints with low solar heat gain coefficient and high reflectance levels offer low transmission of heat to the home and great heat reduction.…

Increasing the Resale Value of Your Home With Replacement Windows

In today’s market sellers are doing everything they can to spruce up their homes for resale. It is probably that houses can be listed on the market for months before an offer is made. Sellers who are in a hurry to sell their homes will need to do some sprucing up and offer a competitive price to get their home sold fast. My neighbors gave their house a facelift by installing replacement windows, adding a fresh coat of paint throughout the house, packing a bunch of the kids clutter up and moving it to storage and having the carpets and grout cleaned. It was an inexpensive way to make their older home look attractive in the tough selling market.

They had a budget of sixty five hundred dollars which they hoped to recoup with the sale price to get the house ready for sale. They knew the most expensive but most worthwhile investment would be replacement windows. To cut costs as much as possible in this area they had a friend that is familiar with construction come in and measure and help install the windows. This saved them a great deal of money and allowed them to upgrade to a well known brand of window. This was in hopes to draw sellers in. New windows are always a bonus with sellers. Since the house was older and the roof had been redone only a few years before this was an item that would be easy to recoup in increased value to the home.

Replacement windows help with the curb appeal of a home that is on the market but that alone is not bringing buyers back in to make an offer. The inside of the house was lived in. To increase the “show” value of their home they took two days to go through belongings and separated the items into piles; throw out, store and donate. This was easier because they knew whatever was to be kept would also need to be stored. Only the essentials would be left inside the home for it to be showed. Many nonessential items were donated including children’s toys and clothes that were too small. They also eliminated many items that had collected over the years such as completed school projects and knick-knack souvenirs. This process was virtually free so it did not have any effect on the actual budget.

The paint for the house was relatively inexpensive. It did take a good week to complete the whole house but really impacted the feel of their home. They painted neutral going with a beige color and were minimalists when it came to hanging pictures and art back up. This definitely affected the aesthetic value of the home. Now that they walls were fresh the flooring needed something also. The budget did not allow for new flooring so clean carpet and grout would have to do. The neighbors finally called in the professionals for this.…

3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Vinyl Replacement Windows in Your Home

Has it come time to replace your window frames due to the fact that they are getting old and looking run down? Sure, you may have loved the old wooden frames, but do you want to stick with the old appeal of the windows? Why not try something new that you have never done before, such as installing vinyl replacement windows that will alter the appearance of your home and make it look interesting and unique?

If you are considering doing something new to give your home a better curb appeal, vinyl windows may be the way to go. Here are a few reasons why you should consider vinyl replacement windows in your home:

Reason 1: They are energy efficient

Anyone who has ever had wooden window frames knows exactly what happens when the frames get warped and they start letting in the cold or hot air. HVAC costs quickly go up, and it becomes difficult to keep the house heated in winter and cool in summer. However, with vinyl windows, you don’t need to worry about any warping.

The reason that vinyl replacement windows are such a great idea is that they will not warp with the weather, meaning that you can keep your house nice and weatherproof all year long.

Reason 2: They are often cheaper

That’s right, vinyl windows can be cheaper than the average wooden window frame, as the prefabricated material is much cheaper to produce than it is to cut and process lumber. You can actually save yourself a lot of money by using vinyl window frames, and you may find that they will be an attractive choice for your home. Sure, some frames will be more expensive, but if economy is your goal, vinyl window frames are the choice for you.

Reason 3: They come in a wide variety

Imagine being able to choose the color of your window frame, the style, the size, and the thickness of the window according to the style. With vinyl windows, you can get all of that and more. You now have complete control over the way your home looks.

Vinyl window frames and windows come in a wide variety of styles, colors, sizes, and thicknesses, meaning that you can choose the best window frames for your home. You won’t have to worry about getting anything custom made, as there is such a wide variety of the prefabricated material that you can find what you need quite easily.

As you can see, vinyl window frames and replacement windows may be exactly what you need when looking to upgrade your home and you will find that they will help you save a lot of money. Rather than investing a fortune in your home, you can enhance its curb appeal much more cheaply and effectively by using these windows. They may not be as classic as wooden frames or as sturdy as aluminum frames, but they will be …

Why Double Glazing is a Great Investment For Your Home

Do you want to be able to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer? Are you tired of feeling drafts and seeing frost building up on the windows in your home? If you are planning to replace some or all of the windows in your home, double glazing can be a valuable tool to help prevent treated air from escaping into the environment.

Double glazing refers simply to glass which is made up of a layer of gas sandwiched between two layers of glass. It is also called insulated glass and can often help to significantly regulate the temperature in your home. Many newer windows use this type of glass in order to help reduce the amount of heat which can be lost through windows and doors.

Even within the category of double glazed windows, there are different options to choose from. Options can include the type of gas which fills the space between the panes. Three of the most commonly used gasses are argon, xenon and krypton. Of the three, xenon is not used as often. It is a good insulator but is much more expensive. These gasses are much thicker than air so the heat takes much longer to travel through the gas layer. This results in homes which are kept warmer as a result and can be heated more efficiently and at a lower cost.

When looking at windows, the R-rating that each window has refers to how much insulation a particular window has had built in during the manufacturing process. You may see windows which are referred to as Low-E which means that an additional coating has been added. This coating can help reduce UV radiation from entering the home and can also reduce the amount of heat that can be lost through the glass.

Very few problems can occur with double glazed glass but one of the more common ones is a broken seal. This permits gas to escape. This makes them less effective at insulating your home. One key sign that a seal has been broken is the build up of condensation between the planes. If it is sealed properly, moisture cannot get into the middle of the window. It may look like fogged glass or even drops of liquid. Depending on how badly the seal has been broken, you may want to replace or repair the window.

Installation of double glazing is not hard but it needs to be done by someone with experience. They can help advise you as to the best type of glass that you should get for your home. You want to make sure that the windows that you choose do not have metal frames because this can actually increase the amount of heat that can be transferred, so make sure to ask the window installer about this when picking your windows.

If you are trying to keep your heating costs down there is …

Preserve Wood Windows With Pest Inspections

There are certain words homeowners never want to hear. These include “You’ve got termites,” and “You’ve got carpenter ants.” Here’s how to avoid needing wood window repair caused by such infestations, and how to spot if you already have problems.

Both carpenter ants and termites enter structures through the tiniest openings. Termites seek cracks in construction joints, retaining wall joints, floor cracks larger than 1/16 inch, plumbing, electrical, and slab intrusions, or they simply build tunnels from the ground to the wood parts of your home. Keep wood piles away from the home, and don’t let branches touch the house. Inspection and thorough caulking are good preventative measures.

Carpenter ants are attracted to sweets, meat, grease and fat. They are most active at night and can be seen foraging inside the home.

Signs of either pest may be noticed first on window sills. Tiny little pyramids or piles of fine debris will become apparent. With carpenter ants, the debris may be near a slit they chewed in the wood window frame or a baseboard. You must act immediately if you see such signs, as unseen damage is almost certain. Removing the exterior wood frame may reveal voids in the underlying wood, especially if dry rot is also present. While you can cut away the voids so that only sound wood is left, and fill the voids with insecticides, wood hardeners and expandable foam, you aren’t killing the colony. And you aren’t addressing unseen damage, which grows quickly.

Have an inspection by a pest control company for preventative measures. Don’t clean window sills prior to inspection. If you have an infestation, get three bids. Historic homes are particularly vulnerable to these type of infestation attacks. You can avoid wood window repair with this crucial “ounce of prevention”; just don’t put it off or else the alternative is much more costly.…

Microsoft Windows 7 – Best Upgrade to Windows Vista

A latest version of Windows operating system has been released by Microsoft — Windows 7, a Vista’s successor that sports the features of Windows XP and Windows Vista, which are available for both client and server version.

Windows 7 is smooth and a highly polished Operating System that looks to compete handily with the OS X dock of MAC through its latest graphical features and a new taskbar. Another impressive feature in the Windows 7 OS is that the users can able to rearrange their applications on the taskbar. When an application is dragged to the top, it automatically maximizes it for you and if an application is dragged down, it restores. Similarly, if an application is dragged to left end, it maximizes on the left side of the screen, thereby allowing the users to drag another application to the right side of the screen. The inclusion of device management and security improvements in Windows 7 enables the user to use it easily and safely.

This latest operating system can be obtained in 32 and 64-bit versions and provides improved remote management feature for the business firms and also gives a better experience for those users who work on laptops. Aside of these features, this new OS offers a multi-touch support and improvements in performance. In short, Windows 7 is gaining more expectations all around the world as it focuses more in satisfying the users through its high-end features, which is one step a head than Vista operating system. It is also available in different editions like Home premium, Ultimate, Professional etc.…

Double Glazed Windows

Double glazed windows, also known as double paned windows, are designed to eliminate drafts and provide highly effective insulation wherever windows are used. Comprised of 2 layers of glass separated by a spacer, the “dead” space between the panes is usually filled with an inert gas, further enhancing the insulative properties of the window. The spacer, most commonly made of thin gauge steel or aluminum, is of often filled with desiccant to prevent condensation between the panes. Whether placed mainly for the purpose of providing light or to take advantage of a great view, double glazed windows are available to meet any need.

There are many styles of double glazed windows. Sash and casement windows come in a variety of sizes and may be opened to allow air movement. Fixed windows and skylights may not open but provide light and, especially in the case of a picture window, an expansive view. Some double glazed windows are manufactured with decorative frames placed inside the “dead” space, giving the appearance of many panes of glass while retaining the insulative value and being easy to clean. To further enhance the insulative qualities of a window, the glass may be tinted or coated with a film of polyester or metal. In addition to protecting curtains and furniture from sun damage, some coated windows also have a reflective surface on one side.

There are many advantages to double glazed windows. In addition to providing an increased level of insulation from heat or cold, they also insulate against outdoor noise and increase security. The two layers of glass, coupled with a built-in locking mechanism, may provide a strong and effective deterrent against intruders.

Double glazed windows are an investment that will pay for itself through savings in energy costs. The length of time this takes is based on a number of factors. In addition to the climate in which the building is located, the type and cost of energy used to heat and cool in that particular area also needs to be taken into consideration.

In most new construction, double glazed windows are standard. When upgrading from single pane windows in an existing structure, an owner often wants to know whether dual pane windows will increase the actual value of the property. The answer depends on a variety of factors specific to the market conditions where the property is located. Regardless of the effect on property value, double glazed windows increase the comfort and salability of a home.

Installing double glazed windows requires knowledge and skill. Incorrect installation may result in damage to the window or reduced efficiency. For an experienced do-it-yourselfer with the proper tools, installing the windows may be an option. In most instances, to safeguard against problems and protect the investment already made in the windows, a professional should be consulted.

From an environmental standpoint, double glazed windows are a responsible choice. The decreased rate at which heat is lost during cold weather or gained during hot weather allows homes …

Control Mold Around Windows With The New Super Spacer Windows Technology

Do you find yourself feeling better at the office than you do at home? Or perhaps your children happen to have re-occurring unexplained allergy-type symptoms. The problem could be mold-causing moisture from your windows.

Mold is not just that green fuzzy stuff growing on leftovers which have sat for weeks in the back of your refrigerator, or something that can grow in the corners of a damp, cold cellar.

A recent Canadian study has shown that there is a direct link between the amount of mold growth and certain health hazards, and that mold exposure can lead to certain types of disease, beyond obvious allergic reactions. The only way to control mold growth is to control the moisture source.

Mold growth can occur in wet basements, behind baseboards and walls, and via cracks in foundation. The study further shows that mold growth from condensation on windows is common, even in newer homes with newer windows, and mold removal in home situations can be pricey.

The culprit? Poor condensation resistance. Warm-edge window technology, from Super Spacer windows by Edgetech, Inc., is proven to reduce the amount of condensation that collects on windows.

Canadian and Swiss government scientists reported that a Super Spacer vinyl window scored highest in edge-of-glass temperature trials; and thus offers the highest resistance to condensation. Super Spacer’s line of thermal-resistant, flexible-type, edge-seal products combine with the thermal properties of lower coatings, argon gas and multi-glazing to raise edge-of-glass and overall surface temperatures of windows, resulting in less moisture on your custom windows.

Condensation can shorten the life of any insulating glass unit. Seal failures, wood rot, discoloration and fungal growth are all possible and likely to occur.

The result? Expensive repair and window replacement as well as possible health problems for you and your family. When choosing new or replacement windows it’s important to remember to install custom windows with Super Spacer; it can provide other health benefits for your family.

If a home’s atmosphere is too dry or too humid, then lung and bronchial infections start occurring, allergies and various asthmatic conditions flare up and skin conditions became dry flaky. Bacteria and viruses tend to thrive in dry or wet environments.

A Super Spacer window performs at a more optimum 30 to 60 percent relative humidity level. Superior condensation resistance provided by Super Spacer windows spells improvement all around, as higher wintertime humidity levels can be maintained indoors, even in cold, dry climates.

To achieve the best possible health benefits from your windows, be sure and ask your local windows manufacturer for windows with Super Spacer windows.…

Everything You Need to Know Regarding Energy Efficient Replacement Windows

Most homeowners will one day have to face the fact that they need to replace their old windows. Instead of thinking of it as a drain on their bank account, homeowners should consider the energy savings they will obtain with brand new windows. There are many things to consider when replacing home windows and this article will give you some information to get you started.

Do You Need To Replace Your Windows?

If you see visible cracking in the window panes.

You see peeling paint around the exterior of your wood windows.

The window does not function properly when opening and closing.

You feel a draft or cold air coming through the window in the winter.

The Match You Need to Know

There are some factors which will help you choose the most energy efficient windows for your home. It involves some numbers but the math functions were performed by scientists in lab coats, so there is no need to worry. These numbers were created to help homeowners compare the energy performance of different window types and brands.

U-factor. This is the rate of heat loss. A lower U-factor number signifies a greater resistance to heat flow and a superior insulating ability. Average U-factor numbers range from 0.20 to 1.20.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The solar heat gain coefficient basically measures the solar radiation admitted through a window. A low SHGC informs the consumer that the window will help a home remain cooler in the warm, summer months. SHGC values typically range from 0 to 1.

Visual Transmittance. The visual transmittance (VT) measures the amount of light that enters through a window. The higher the VT, the more light comes through a window. Typical ranges are 0 to 1.

Air Leakage. Windows are tested to see how much air they allow to pass through them. The lower the number, the less of a draft you will feel. The numbers range form 0.1 to 0.3. A window over 0.3 does not meet the qualifications for energy efficiency.

5 Other Factors to Consider When Buying Replacement Home Windows

Climate. The climate you live in will help to determine what type of window yo need. If you live in a year-round warm climate, heat loss in not as much of a concern. Speaking with a window specialist when you go to buy will help you select the right window.

Materials. Windows are made with many different types of materials with wood and vinyl the most popular. Both are energy efficient but vinyl may be the better option since it is longer lasting and requires less maintenance.

Features. There are many different innovative features that hep make windows more energy efficient. Solarban 60 and 70XL Low-e glass are glass products engineered to control solar heat gain, while dual weather stripping, warm edge spacer technology, and insulated glass panels all help increase the insulating ability of windows.

Warranty. Make sure you purchase from a …