5 Tips for Buying a Replacement Front Door
Purchasing a replacement door can give your home a new perspective. Aside from the aesthetics, it will also put an increased strength level on your security and reduce your overall energy bills. There are tons of front doors out there. What then are the things that should help you narrow down your search and make the best selection?
Here are the 5 tips for buying a replacement front door:
1. Style
You want to choose a replacement front door that resonates with your style, person and that harmonizes with the design of the home. This has to do with color, design, patterns and other aesthetic considerations. Explore as many styles as possible. Traditional doors tend to blend well with traditional doors. A home with a modern structure will be better complemented with a modern door. The style also includes handedness. If your door wasn’t easy to open earlier due to obstructions, change the handedness.
2. Consider Natural Light
Depending on your choice, you may need more illumination in your home. The front door is one of those sure ways of bringing a little sunray into your home. You will need to purchase doors with light ushering features. Look out for doors particularly with inset windows. The fact that your window is made of glass may want to tamper with your security. The way around this is getting a door that the doorknob is below the window. That way, it will make it more difficult for an intruder to break in from outside.
3. Warranty
Make sure to purchase a front door with desirable sales terms. Make sure it covers the things it ought to cover and know what it covers and what it leaves out. That way, you know the things that can make you ineligible in case there’s a need for a claim eventually. Check out new trends in the door industry and what you particularly should be looking out for.
4. Quality of the Material
This is one of the most important considerations in getting a replacement front door. Some doors are more resistant than others and hold more promises of longevity. Wood, steel, fiberglass, aluminum, vinyl all have their advantages and downsides. Woods are durable and flexible as they can be easily made into different shapes or sizes. Wood doors require regular maintenance. Fiberglass doors resist scratches and dents better than steel. Steel doors are energy-efficient, secure and durable. It’s left for you to decide which suits you better.
5. Dimension
Replacing your front door means there was a door existing before. Measure the length, width, and depth with a good tape measure. The replacement you will be getting should match the measurements of the old door. Even if you want a bigger renovation, the accurate measurements will give you an idea of what you want and other things you need to do.
5 Factors that Impact the Cost of Replacement Windows
Understanding the various factors that make up the cost of your replacement window is crucial. It enables you to assess the cost and determine whether it’s worth it or not. It is important that we are fully aware of the value of what we are about to pay for.
Here is a list of factors that impact the cost of replacement windows:
1. Window Quality
The major reason for the price variation between windows is quality. Windows are made with different materials and each has its different mode of production, installation method, and utility which reflects in their overall cost of replacement.
2. Window Installation
There is a full-frame window installation and pocket or retro-fit installation method. The full-frame window installation is recommended as “best installation practice” as everything is removed down the rough stud opening. A retro-fit installation leaves the old window frame intact and there-fore the possibility arises that the insulation will be inadequate compared to a full frame out window. The full frame installation method is there-fore more elaborate, laborious and slower. It also requires additional materials and touch up work after the main installation. All of these combine to make up a greater cost of fixing the window altogether. Pocket or retro-fit installations are less elaborate and requires working within the frame of your old window. It is faster, less laborious, affordable and easier to maintain.
3. Energy Efficiency Rating
Energy efficiency is a factor that increases the cost of windows. This is because energy-efficient windows require special materials and some other additions like double glazing and triple glazing. They are sometimes filled with gas to increase insulation. Some of these gases are Krypton or Argon gas. Though these features may be costly at first, in the long run, you will save more money through their energy efficiency.
4. Window Design
As it is important to find a window that matches your aesthetic cravings, the cost is also a factor to keep in mind. The more elaborate the design in most cases, the more the cost. It is essential to try to strike a balance between cost, design, and utility. In calculating the cost, you should think long term. Some designs seem cost-effective at the instance but eventually, they are not. For a greater ROI, invest in energy-efficient windows with durability and suitable physical appeal.
5. Window Frame
Vinyl, wood, fiberglass and aluminum are the most commonly used in window manufacturing. Window frames such as ones installed with aluminum, wood, fiberglass or composite typically are less energy efficient than Vinyl windows, although Vinyl and wood are very close in heat loss BTU per hour, but vinyl windows will last much longer than a typical wood window because it cannot rot due to lack of maintenance. An aluminum window frame has a huge BTU loss per hour compared to a typical vinyl window, but aluminum windows are used very commonly in high rise building to meet fire codes.
These 5 factors will help you understand the pricing process and influence your purchase decision by helping you determine whether an amount is worth it or not as the cost of your window replacement.
Benefits of Installing a Porch Enclosure
Most homeowners dream of maximizing their outdoor space but are restrained by the weather. Are you looking for ways to enjoy your porch or outdoor space? Do you want to overcome all hindrances to your outdoor experience? Do not worry unnecessarily; a porch enclosure is what you should add to your porch or patio.
What Is a Porch Enclosure?
A porch enclosure is designed for protecting the porch or patio from the elements and other factors that prevent people from enjoying their outdoors (the porch or patio). Without the porch enclosure, the weather will undoubtedly interfere with how you enjoy your porch.
If you just bought a new home or you are planning to upgrade your home, including a porch enclosure in your plan in addition to replacement windows. Just like replacement windows, porch enclosure offers several benefits that impact your satisfaction, the curb appeal of your home, and the value of your home.
Benefits of Installing a Porch Enclosure
Installing a porch enclosure provide several unavailable benefits to homeowners irrespective of the weather conditions in your region or the level of security in your neighbourhood. Here are the benefits that porch enclosures offer:
1. Insulation
Installing a porch enclosure increases the space between the home and the outdoor weather. As a result, the enclosure provides insulation for the house from the elements, especially extreme heat or cold, and rain. This helps to reduce energy costs.
2. Protection from Pests
There are sneaky little intruders all around; one of the ways to deal with them is to install a porch enclosure.
3. Protection from Dirt and Dust
A porch enclosure keeps your home interior free from dirt and dust coming with outdoor shoes. You can drop such shoes and other items in the enclosure before entering your house.
4. Aesthetics Value
Installing a porch enclosure enhances the curb appeal of your home. A porch enclosure adds elegance and charm to the house. It will undoubtedly complement the style of the home and boost its aesthetic value.
5. Extra Space
You can have extra usable space in your home by installing a porch enclosure. A porch enclosure gives you the chance of creating a pleasant and comfortable area. You get the feeling of being in nature, while still protected from disturbances such as dust, noise, flies, etc.
6. Improved Safety
A porch enclosure provides a home with extra safety. Burglars are usually discouraged from breaking into a house with a porch enclosure; they think twice. Strangers and visitors also cannot enter your home straight away without your knowledge or permission.
What is the Difference Between Casement and Awning Windows?
Choosing the right replacement windows for your home could be a difficult task due to a wide variety of options available. Several reasons must have necessitated your decision to go for replacement windows instead of repairing the existing ones. However, if you are confused about selecting between casement and awning windows for as replacement windows, this article shows you the differences between them to enable you to make an informed decision.
The Common Things About Casement and Awning Windows
Before considering the differences between these types of replacement windows, it is beneficial to learn about the things they have in common.
- They are both cranking windows
- They are operated easily by a fold-down handle
- They open outward and enhance larger screen areas for air ventilation
- They promote natural light and excellent unobstructed views.
- They are energy-efficient
Casement Windows
Casement windows are a traditional type of windows hinged on the side. They are suitable in spaces with more height than width. They also have flat panels that allow fresh air into your home. Besides, casement windows are highly energy-efficient that is why they are considered perfect for replacement windows.
Casement windows also provide substantial natural light and a clear view. They are best suited in the kitchen, dining rooms, living rooms, and sometimes bedrooms.
Key Benefits of Casement Windows
- They are easy to operate (open and close)
- They boost the energy efficiency of a home
- They come with compression seals to prevent outside air from entering and interior air from escaping
- They provide ventilation and visibility
- They improve the curb appeal of a house
- The exterior of the glass is fully cleanable form the interior side of the window
Downsides of Casement Windows
- They need plenty of space outside to move freely
Awning Windows
Awning windows come with hinges on the top side of the windows, and that allows them to open from the bottom upwards. They are suitable for space that is wider than the tall area. Awning windows are more conventional than casement windows. They slope downward from the walls and can be left open when the rain falls without much water getting inside.
Key Benefits of Awning Window
- They allow more air to enter the house.
- They enable a clear view of the outdoor
- They are energy-efficient
- With screens inside, insects and bugs will be prevented from entering the home
- They help to create and maintain comfortable indoor temperature year-round
Downside of Awning Windows
- They need ample clearance outside of the home to open fully
- They require access on the exterior for glass cleaning purpose
Consider the benefits and downsides of casement and awning windows to decide your favourite form of replacement windows.
5 Steps to Choosing the Right Replacement Windows
Choosing the right replacement windows will not only enhance the aesthetics of your house, but it will also determine your experience, and help you save money on energy bills. Do you want to undertake replacement windows project and need a guide to choose wisely? Are you searching for the steps you must take before choosing the right replacement windows? Do not stress out; here are the 5 steps you to select the perfect replacement windows.
1. Select a Style
The existing windows are most likely old-fashioned. As a result, you should choose a modern style that will enhance the exterior aesthetics of your property. Consider the architectural design of your house and choose a style that will blend with the exterior of the house. There is a large collection of replacement windows that will work with your building.
2. Choose a Material
There is a wide array of materials you can choose. While the style of window is crucial, prioritize maintenance based on the materials chosen. Vinyl material seems to be the best because it is easy to maintain, resistant to termite damage, and will not rot, peel, or warp. Besides, vinyl does not require painting, sanding, or staining. It is also durable and offers good value for money.
3. Select a Glass Package
This is one of the most crucial components of a window when you want to save on energy. Cheap windows may have low quality and may not have the right technology to reduce energy bills throughout the year. Here are factors to look for in a glass package.
- Dual or Triple Pane Glass – Dual-pane comprises two panes with airspace in-between them, usually containing a Low “E” coating and Argon Gas. Triple pane insulated glass units have three panes of glass with an added airspace for soundproofing and energy-saving.
- Argon Gas – This gas is filled into the space between the panes of glass. It is odorless and invisible gas to enhance the window’s thermal efficiency.
- Krypton Gas – Like argon gas, it is filled in-between panes to make replacement windows efficient.
- Low-E Glazing – It is a thin, invisible coating applied to the insulated glass unit to minimize heat transfer.
4. Request for Custom Replacement Windows
When embarking on replacement windows project, contact a professional company for custom design; you will get the best value for your money. You would be able to get high-quality products tailored to your specifications at affordable prices.
5. Choose a Reputable Window Company
Do not choose a company whose reputation is not guaranteed. Find reputable companies in your area through the internet. Read reviews about them to select the most suitable contractor.
Replacement windows are the facade of your home. Ensure you install the right replacement windows to enhance the value of your home.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
How do I Prepare My House for Replacement Windows?
It is crucial that you prepare properly for the installation of your replacement windows for the best fit and results. Replacement windows are a great home improvement project that increases the functionality, aesthetics, and the value of the property. It is an investment with a high return on investment.
Having hired a professional to handle your replacement windows installation, you need to prepare your home to make the process easy and hassle-free.
1. Clear the Paths
You have to make your home accessible by clearing the paths within your home to allow free movement in and out one room to another without any obstacles. Remember that the installers will be carrying heavy replacement windows. Therefore, remove all items that may block their paths.
2. Take Down the Window Treatments
The project in focus is replacement windows; therefore, you should make the area of the windows free from obstructions. Remove curtains, blinds, sheers, and other items surrounding the windows. Other items you have to remove include trimmings, hardware, and interior shutters – they will only cause inconveniences and slow down the installation process.
Besides, installers would not be willing to waste time removing these items. Plan and take down pictures and all wall hangings around the windows to prevent accidentally knocking down any material during the new window installation.
3. Use Dust Covers
The installation of replacement windows could bring about dust and make your rooms dirty. Although the installers will put down their own drop cloths to take care of the dust and dirt, you can as well place dust covers on important items in your house and make your home clean.
4. Turn off HVAC
The installation of replacement windows will undoubtedly cause heating or cooling loss during the process. However, to save energy, turn off your heater or air conditioner until after the completion of the installation. Save on utility bills during the installation period.
5. Grant Installation Access
You have to either take time off work and stay with the installers during the installation process or ask a family member or neighbour to help you stay with the contractors during installation.
Besides, you would need to turn off your alarm system or contact the provider and inform them of the upcoming project to avoid embarrassment and creating unnecessary panic in the neighbuorhood.
Prepare your home for replacement windows Installation for a seamless process. You would also be able to prevent damages to your properties, especially fragile items.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
How do You Know it’s Time to Replace Your Old Windows?
If you have been considering replacing your old windows, you are not alone. It is common knowledge that old windows cannot guarantee the energy efficiency of the home. Apart from the fact that you need to improve the aesthetics of your home by changing the old windows to state-of-the-art replacement windows, there are other reasons why you should replace your old windows.
Given that modern replacement windows offer several benefits to the home and help the homeowner to save money, these are the signs that it is high time you replaced your old windows. Here are the signs that you need to change your old windows:
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Structural Damages and Draft
Damages to your old windows like warping, cracks, holes, rotten frames, etc. are one of the signs that you should replace the windows. Besides, when breeze enters your home through the windows despite being closed, you should consider replacement windows. This condition may have resulted from damages to the seals of the window. Know that windows that fail the draft test will cause drastic changes to the overall temperature of the house, and this will task your HVAC system more than necessary just to maintain the fluctuating temperature.
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Difficulty Operating the Windows
It should not be difficult to open, close, or lock your windows. However, when you cannot operate the old windows conveniently, you should start planning for replacement windows. Windows that are hard to operate can fail at any time. To prevent the inconveniences that such sudden failure can bring, prepare for replacement windows.
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Outside Noise
When you start hearing noise from outside, that shows that your windows offer little protection from outside noises. The seals of the old windows may have become worn out; hence, the windows cannot provide soundproofing functions any longer. You should not lose peace inside your house due to the noise outdoors.
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Condensation
Not all types of condensation are bad. But when there is misty condensation between glass layers or cracked window glass, you unavoidably need replacement windows because it will be difficult to see through the old windows again since the condensation will not disappear.
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Increasing Energy Bills
Another sign that you need replacement windows is increasing energy bills. Since your old windows are no longer energy-efficient, your HVAC will binge on electricity to maintain the temperature of the home, which will result in huge energy expenses.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
What are the Benefits of Adding a Sunroom?
Looking for a way to spice up things in your home? Look no further since sunrooms are the ideal way to do this. Their benefits vary from adding aesthetics to improving light and ventilation. Additionally, sunrooms boost up your home’s value without shaking up your pockets. But, let’s not mention everything at once.
Also known as Florida room, garden conservatory, patio room, sun parlor, winter garden, and three season room; a classic sunroom is getting more and more popular each day.
Here are the top 5 advantages of having a sunroom in your home:
A Stylish Touch
If you are looking for a new and authentic home improvement project, installing a sunroom is definitely for you. Your home will be much more noticeable from the outside and if you use your decorations right, it will look like a million bucks. From fancy lightbulbs and plants to DIY window treatments, sunrooms are ideal for those who want to experiment with style.
Added Extra Space
Everybody has issues with practicality in their homes. As time passes by, our homes basically turn into large storage spaces and the more we live, the less room we have inside. Adding a sunroom is a great way to expand your living space. And the best thing is you can turn it into whatever you want: an office, a space for yoga, a kids playroom, etc.
Increase Home Value
With adding extra square footage, you definitely add more numbers to your home’s value. Modern home buyers are looking for curb appeal and a sunroom surely improves it. Additionally, this home upgrade isn’t that expensive. This means that for a relatively low price, you can create an extra living space and gain much more in value than you spent for the upgrade.
A Unique Garden
As we mentioned before, there are tons of options you can go for when it comes to deciding the purpose of your new sunrooms. Besides office spaces and playrooms, sunrooms are amazing for creating a green room. Starting gardening as a hobby is very beneficial, both for your home and for your mental health.
Improve Natural Light
Doing gardening wouldn’t be possible without sufficient amounts of natural light. One of the benefits of sunrooms is significantly improved natural lighting on the inside. Research shows how homeowners who live in open spaces with tons of natural light have a much better life. This is because sunlight affects us positively in many different ways.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
How do I Choose a Patio Door?
If you’re like most homeowners, you want your house to look its best inside and out. By selecting the right patio door for your home, you can show off your personal style while incorporating function and practicality. With our available custom options, creating the perfect look is easier than ever before.
Consider Types of Patio Doors
PM Windows & Doors offers two- and three-lite patio doors, each lite representing a panel of glass. While other sliding glass doors on the market are only available in stock sizes, each of our doors is custom-made to fit the exact dimensions of the door opening up to 8 ft. in height.
Our professional installers fit the doors to the opening, delivering unbeatable quality and attention to detail. The high-end, vinyl patio doors we install offer years of flawless operation.
Not only are our sliding glass doors durable, but they also have a double-point locking system to keep your home secure.
OR …We also offer hinged Garden doors for your enjoyment. This is the perfect patio door replacement! A garden door gives you less air infiltration and added security along with a sliding bug screen. A garden door has all the features of a patio door with the ability to add a deadbolt and decorative or brass glass. A garden door can only enhance the beauty of your rear deck or garden.
Tips
Tip 1: Since swinging Garden doors need room to open, consider factors such as furniture and wall placement before determining which opening method works best for space. If space is tight, consider using a stationary panel with a single swinging door or sliding doors that fit well in any sized space.
Tip 2: Choose a design that has a wide doorway to provide greater access and a stronger connection to your outdoor living space.
Tip 3: Since glass is a major component of patio doors, you’ll want to select the right type with the most benefits and efficiency. Low-E glass helps lower energy bills all year and protects against UV fading. decorative tempered glass offers privacy and added style, while still letting in natural light. Look for options like internal blinds and grills to control the light and views.
Patio doors are becoming taller and wider, spanning the length and height of whole walls so your outdoor living space feels like a natural extension of your home. When it comes to patio doors, there are many new options for homeowners to choose from, like low-maintenance fiberglass that mimics the look of wood, architectural inspired-styles, decorative glass, custom colors and designs, and energy efficient systems. Look for ENERGY STAR® rated patio doors.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
5 Ways to Get More Natural Light to Dark Rooms
Getting the right amount of light in a room can be tricky. Orientation toward North definitely cuts down lighting, but there are also other factors such as large tree shades and small window openings.
If you are tired of having to turn the lights on even during a bright sunny day, here are 5 most effective ways to improve a room’s natural light:
1. Replacement Windows
A very important factor that determines the amount of natural light in your room is the quality of your windows. If have old, wooden frames, light won’t get reflected properly. Additionally, you might have small or not enough windows in the room. To solve this problem, simply add new windows like the picture window or bay or bow window.
With doing window replacement, you get the opportunity to rearrange your space and allow more natural light to enter in the future. Consider installing sliding patio doors in your living room or a picture window in the bedroom. Whatever you do, always consult with experts before you seal the deal.
2. Mirrors and Décor
Light travels by being reflected. If your room has black walls, dark furniture and no mirrors, it’s no wonder you have problems with natural light. Putting large decorative mirrors in the room will give lighting an opportunity to be reflected and travel around the entire space.
Mirrors also create optical illusions. Every room that has a large mirror across the window looks 3 times bigger than it actually is. Besides using mirrors, you can also play around with other types of décor such as rugs, bookshelves and plants. The lighter the colors, the more natural light will be reflected.
3. Reflective Tiles
When we have already mentioned reflection, we cannot but speak about reflective tiles. Many homeowners have problems with natural light, especially in living rooms. This is why in most homes you will find reflective tiles, glass tables and gold or silver decorations. With putting more shiny surfaces, you get more reflection and thus more light.
4. Change the Window Treatments
Another trick involving window is how you treat them. Of course, we aren’t talking about regular cleaning jobs. The type of window covering you have also influences the amount of natural light. Heavy weight, dark shades block much more sunlight than white vertical blinds.
The best window treatments are those that allow enough light to enter, but block damaging UV rays at the same time. There are many options on the market, but when choosing remember to match it with your aesthetics and choose a lightly colored one.
5. Repaint
Previously we concluded how reflection is the most important thing when it comes to improving natural light. So this is how it basically works: Dark colors absorb light and bright ones reflect it. By painting over your walls, cabinets or floors with baby blue or beige, you will surely get a brighter room.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.