Month: May 2018

How to Prepare Your Home and Family for a Remodel

If your family is about to venture into a home improvement project, it can be an exciting time. The idea of an updated decor, improved efficiency in the kitchen and baths, can be invigorating and unnerving at the same time. Knowing how to plan a renovation is key to surviving the inconveniences and stresses of living in a construction zone.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 75% of homeowners have a greater desire to be in their homes after remodeling, but getting through a remodel doesn't have to be chaotic or stressful. To prepare for a remodel, there are home improvement tips and tricks that can make this time easier for your family. It all begins with a plan. For each section of the home undergoing renovations, provide alternate living areas with a clear plan for your family will reduce the confusion, noise, and disruptions to your everyday lives.  Here are some renovation tips and tricks to get you through your home remodeling project:

How to plan an exterior remodeling project

The top 3 exterior home improvements continue to be vinyl replacement windows, new roofing, and a new garage door. With new doors and windows, plan to remove all artwork from walls and any breakable decorations away from the windows. Professional window replacement companies usually take note of any adverse weather conditions and will guide you on any special preparations or delays due to the inclement weather.  New windows and doors can usually be installed the same day as removal.

Preparing for the initial demo phase

This is the noisiest and dirtiest part of any renovation project and it will demand patience from everyone in the family. Talk with all family members to discuss if staying at a family or friend's home during this time is the right decision.  If you have young children, it may be best for them to stay with a relative during this phase. When you consider the drywall dust, airborne wood chips, and strong odors - a few days away can be the best idea. You may also consider making arrangements for the family pets to live off-site for awhile, as the loud noise and unknown visitors will cause stress. If not, coordinate with the contractors to completely seal off demolition areas from the rest of the home.  RWC’s, professional team cleans the job site each day; meaning no dust or debris is left behind.

Plan for Unforeseen Problems

Knowing how to plan a remodeling project includes preparing for problems that may arise.  Once walls come down, issues may pop up; this could mean altering your construction plans.  Make sure you plan for extra expenses and follow the advice of HGTV experts:

Make a list of the rooms you wish to remodel. Beside each project, determine who will be impacted, how the space should function and when the remodel needs to be completed.

Prior to tackling your renovation, do your own research.  Make a list of your projects and research the construction methods, the material options, and local service providers. You will find that having more knowledge beforehand, makes the entire process go smoothly.  It’s important to mention, the best home improvement tips and tricks come from those who have been through many renovations! Talk to your contractor ahead of time to outline a timeline for your project, budget, materials and more. This way, expectations can be set early on.

Takeaways Home Improvement Tips and Tricks

• Talk with your family about the inconvenience, noise and confusion that may be part of a renovation.
• Move all artwork, breakable decorations, and photos to a safe area until after the remodel
• Consider leaving the home during the demolition phase for large renovation projects
• Talk to your contractor about possible delays from weather, manpower shortage, or slow material supply
• Reduce surprises by viewing home remodeling videos and read about the methods your contractor will be using

Before you plan your next home renovation project, contact RWC Windows, Doors, and More for expert kitchen and bath remodels since 1959. Our design consultants know how to plan a renovation and will help you select the right products for your home's style and budget.

by RWC

Spring Outdoor Maintenance Tips For Your Windows and Doors

It’s that time of the year again; spring, when you have to give your home a tune-up to return it to its former glory. The winter season can leave your home exterior in bad shape, and therefore it’s important to undertake some spring home maintenance to avert costly repairs or replacements in the future.

Two of the crucial areas of your home to inspect thoroughly during spring are windows and doors. Well-kept windows and doors are vital for the home’s security, air conditioning, and even aesthetics. Winter can be tough on these structures, causing them to operate inefficiently or lose their aesthetic value. The experts at RWC windows and doors recommend the following spring home maintenance tips to ensure your home’s guard stays up!

1. Inspect your windows and doors thoroughly

A lot can happen to your windows and doors during the past winter or summer seasons. An annual check-up is necessary during spring. Check for both minor and major problems so that you can know what needs fixing or replacement. Some of the common issues you may find with your structures include loose nuts and bolts, rotten wood, loose weatherstripping, chipped paint, squeaking hinges, clogged door tracks, and more.

2. Clean your windows and doors

You can clean dirty window glass surfaces with water and a cloth or soft sponge to remove dirt particles or other foreign materials that may have accumulated over time. You may add some glass cleaner to the water but make sure it does not have scouring agents. When cleaning your exterior doors, consider their stain or paint finish. It is advisable that you request advice from a professional on the best cleaning products to use on the doors.

Also, clean sliding door tracks and window casings to ensure that the doors and windows close without making noises or jamming on the tracks.

3. Repair or replace worn out hardware

Inspect all hardware parts of your windows and doors for tight-fitting or wear and tear. If bolts and nuts are loose, try to tighten them with a screwdriver. If they are worn out or damaged and need replacements, contact a professional to handle it for you. In addition, check all the moving parts on windows and doors to see if they are well lubricated. All gliding parts should be well lubricated at least once per year to reduce friction and prolong the life of hinges and bearings among others.

Test the door and window locks to see if they are operating seamlessly. Your main exterior door should remain sturdy at all times for security reasons.

4. Repair or replace the weatherstripping

The sealant or caulking on your windows or exterior doors is imperative in keeping these structures watertight and ensuring energy efficiency. Check the weatherstripping to see if it’s broken, loose, damaged or has gaps. If it’s destroyed and requires minor repairs, you can do buy a sealant and handle the repair on your own by following the manufacturer’s instructions or calling the experts at RWC for expert advice. But if it’s extensively damaged, have a professional look at it and possibly replace the whole weatherstripping.

5. Install window treatments and coverings

Consider installing window coverings such as blinds, shutters or draperies. They will not only help improve your home’s aesthetics but also boost your energy savings. They help reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.

Tuning up your home’s windows and doors this summer will go a long way in helping you identify and resolve issues early before they become expensive problems in the future. Contact the professionals at RWC windows and doors today for timely, affordable, and reliable inspections and repair for spring home care!

Takeaways:

The spring maintenance checklist for your windows and doors include:

• Inspecting windows and doors thoroughly
• Cleaning them and their components
• Lubricating, repairing or replacing their hardware
• Fixing or replacing weatherstripping
• Installing window blinds, shutters or drapes

by RWC