Quality Pre-Finishing For Your Next Home Renovation Project
Thanks to media depictions of carpentry and construction, many people visualize the associated professionals doing all of their work right at their home. In reality, this is not the best way to go about things. Instead, it’s better to do the forming and finishing in a wood shop, factory, or similar facility. RWC’s custom pre finishing workshop allows all jobs to be done properly and quickly without any inconveniences to homeowners.
Why It’s Better to Form Things in a Real Shop
Proper wood shops have many tools that homes do not. The most obvious of these is heavy carpentry machinery. Floor-mounted saws, grinders, sanders, and other such machines are very stable. This allows for precise settings to be entered and maintained. The size of the equipment also means that there is no need to use makeshift supports for the pieces being worked on. Professional-grade safety equipment also prevents injuries. All of these things combine to allow the creation of close to perfect end results.
What Makes it Better to Finish the Pieces in the Shop
The short answer is that the end result is far superior. This is because the environmental conditions and application methods can be carefully controlled inside of a purpose-built facility such as RWC’s pre-finishing shop.
In the field, the prevailing conditions vary at each location, and this causes instability in terms of application rates, drying times, and the amount of wood dust present from other work. During the winter or even during a rainy spell, it can be impossible to apply finishes in the field at all. The weather has to be at the right temperature and humidity level in order to have a finish cure properly. Shops like RWCs have the heating and humidity control needed to allow for perfect results all year long.
A finishing shop is also better for the environment when compared to doing the work on site. The shops have ventilation systems that include specialized filters. These filters help keep the VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) from stains and paints from polluting the air as they dry. Shops also have concrete floors that prevent any spilled material from seeping into the ground before clean-up.
Finally, doing finishing work outside of a house or residential property is better for the property itself. There’s no need to worry about spills or overspray damaging nearby elements like floors, counters, or landscaping. While overspray sometimes happens in shops, it isn’t a problem to them since they’re made with industrial conditions in mind.
Other Benefits of Using a Shop for Forming and Finishing
The other benefits of pre-forming and pre-finishing are easier for customers to see at a glance. There will be no mess in your house caused by the cutting and sanding of forming your cabinet doors, trim, molding, and other wooden elements. There’ll also be no smell from the primer, paint, stain, or other finishing materials. These factors eliminate the problems that accompany doing this work inside your house.
Speed is another big benefit. When the work is done in the proper environment, with the proper tools and supports, the process goes far quicker.
Durability is a benefit that becomes apparent later but is very important. When everything is made exactly right, the chance of problems like cracking surfaces, peeling paint, and fading stain becomes minimal.
Timing
Even if pre-finishing is done inside of a shop, it’s still best to get it done before the coldest part of winter hits. Projects involving exterior elements of a house, such as windows and doors, are often done only during good weather. Since it’s best to get these things installed as soon as they’re done, avoiding the winter is a good idea.
If you need work done on your house, make sure to give RWC a call. We offer windows and doors that have been properly pre-finished, as well performing the final installation. Call us (973-227-7123) or visit us online today.
The Luxury and Beauty Behind Decorative Stained Glass Windows
Windows are an essential aspect of home decor, but their full potential is rarely realized. That’s because people tend to focus entirely on the frames and the practical properties of the glass within them.
What’s missing with the traditional home view is the decorative potential of the glass itself. There are many ways to dress up windows for residential installations, ranging from a simple frosting all the way to staining. Stained glass is especially impressive in the right rooms and positions.
The Beginnings of Decorative Window Glass
Using glass in decorative ways is a practice that has existed for at least 1,000 years. It all started with the invention of colored glass, which has been around almost since time immemorial. Colored glass was first used to make small decorative objects. Later, it became possible to make the glass more durable, and it began to be used for windows.
Stained glass windows were first used in churches and other highly significant buildings, with the first use recorded as early as the 7th century. The concept, however, existed long before that: thin slices of alabaster and other naturally-colored materials were used for a similar purpose back in the 4th century.
Historic Residential and Commercial Decorative Glass
As stained glass rose in use at well-heeled churches, synagogues and mosques the demand for individual homes and businesses were starting to drive with varied versions of the beautiful decorative glass. This led to the rise of leadlights, these had designs that were much simpler than those of stained glass and were often colorless. Still, lead traces were used to create the designs in a manner similar to the stained version and therefore gave the style its name.
Other Types of Decorative Window Glass
As more technology became available other types of decorative glass came onto the scene. One of the most popular of these being frosted glass. Originally, this was relatively expensive because making it involved soaking glass in acid or sandblasting it. Then adding designs, either by etching them in or leaving them as the only plain parts, requiring, even more, time and skill.
Modern Decorative Glass Options
Today, people are far more prone to using decorative glass at home than ever before. This is because many of the options have become more affordable – sometimes substantially so. Window films, a relatively new arrival to the decorative landscape, have put a wide variety of effects within easy reach of homeowners.
One of the most popular effects provided by films is tinting, but the frosting technique is preferred for a more decorative result. Printing technology makes it fairly easy to put a design into a window, so this option is becoming popular. That said, some still prefer handcrafted frosted windows for their artistic value.
Bringing the Beauty of Stained Glass Home
True stained glass still requires the artistic design and assembly of multiple, small pieces of painted glass. Due to the extensive labor and skill that is involved in the construction, a stained glass window is an investment. Cheap alternatives, such as stained glass-style appliques, cannot pass for real and therefore are not preferred.
That said, it is far easier to get stained glass for a home today than it was during the Middle Ages. Increased trading options, improved production methods, and other such factors have dropped the price from cathedral levels and put it into the reach of, upscale homeowners. Therefore, it is being seen in modern homes more and more each day.
Thanks to the expansion of decorative glass options, all of the beautiful styles once restricted to specific buildings can be brought into the home with relative ease. To get ideas or get a quote for stained glass in your home, contact RWC today. We are experts at putting together the perfect residential decor packages.
3 Proven Reasons Your Building Needs Modern Commercial Windows
The key to making a profit while providing service when you own a building is to make the building efficient to use on a regular basis. Utilizing efficient new windows and doors is a relatively inexpensive investment which pays for itself with reduced power bills the adds value to potential clients who may lease rooms in the building and will recognize your dedication toward running a business efficiently.
Owning your first house is exciting enough as a place for you and your family to live, but owning an actual building is even more exciting as you realize the potential income it can provide for you to care for your family. While establishing a committed role in the local community with a commercial structure, the building you own will also generate income. It requires maintenance and repair costs, along with the expense of keeping it open and running as a commercial building whether you run a business inside personally or lease it to other companies for office and work space.
What to Look for when Choosing Modern Windows
Older buildings have older windows until they are upgraded with renovations and replacement windows to meet modern standards. Newly built structures have modern options available with new windows rather than replacement windows. There are several design aspects to consider when deciding on a window style whether constructing a new building or renovating an existing structure to make it more modern.
1. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency always saves money in the long term. A commercial building neither needs nor demands the conveniences offered by residential windows, rather, it needs windows which maintain the controlled indoor atmosphere while allowing a view of the outdoors.
2. Cosmetic Appeal
A commercial or industrial building has a primary function of allowing businesses to perform. Whether a factory, office building, or storefront, the building provides jobs to the community and are local landmarks. As such, you want it to look nice from the street, upon approach, and to the people inside. Balancing efficiency and functionality with a cosmetic appeal is achieved with the proper architectural design which incorporates windows appropriate for the building’s needs.
3. Practical Function
The practical function of new windows can supersede efficiency and appeal, yet practical function incorporates the ideas of efficiency and appeal as well. South facing windows can incorporate a glaze coating to keep heat out during the summer, north facing windows can utilize double panes with inert gasses to keep heat in during the winter. Windows facing the east allow extra light in the morning while west facing windows can produce an afternoon glare if not properly treated.
The Multiple Roles of a Contractor with Commercial Windows
The contractor is the person who actually installs the new windows. Sometimes, the contractor has to alter the original plans for practical purposes, other times he has to explain the blueprints to the client so they can understand how it is going to look.
Design Process
The architect designs the building according to client needs, and the contractor understands how to fulfill the design parameters. Sometimes, the initial design has to change according to what the contractor can do with the available resources, but a great contractor can do so while maintaining building code and utilizing amazing window designs which keep the original concept intact.
Application
Installing windows is the contractor’s job, he does it well and has the experience to know what works best for different applications. You can trust that your contractor knows how to do the job well and complete it according to your expectations.
Conclusion
Whether you are renovating or constructing a new building, be sure to contact RWC for an estimate and advice toward practical completion of the project. We can help with design plans with practical application and labor toward completing the project according to your needs.
3 Ways Double Doors Can Easily Make Your Front Entry Amazing
Double doors provide a distinguished look for your home. With the wider entrance to your home, it will become more accessible for guests and members of your household. Double doors can transform a boring, understated entryway and make it the focal point of your house. With options available to you from RWC, your home is going to look beautiful for a small, cost-effective investment. When you are ready to change your front doors and you want to know what your choices are, RWC can meet with you and talk about various designs that would work for your property.
The Advantages of Double Doors
When you invest in double doors for your property, you will give your home a wider entrance. This will make it easier to move big items in and out of your home, and ensure that any guests with mobility issues will be able to get into your home with ease. Double doorscan be used to create a stunning entryway, no matter if your home is modern or traditional. The variety of options when it comes to double doors will give your home a unique look. Double doors are an affordable option when you want to make a big impact on the overall look of your home. You can choose double doors made of wood, fiberglass, and even metal.
RWC and Double Door Installation
An RWC employee will need to look at your front entryway to assess if there is a potential for double doors. If your current door is a single one, the transformation will require some light construction to widen the entrance. Together you will talk about your wishes for your front door, the look you are going for and the style you want your front entry to have. You and the technician will come up with a plan to make the front of your home look great for a price that you can afford.
Renovating Your Entry Door
There are a number of reasons to renovate your entry door. Whether you are bored with the look of your home, or you have substantial heat loss through your entryway door, renovating is the answer. If your current door is old, dented, or is no longer appealing, it’s time to increase the value of your home with a good looking entry. Double doors are a great solution when you want to upgrade your property. The construction required to replace or fix your original door may be just as expensive as installing double doors instead. You can make the front of your home completely different with a few small changes.
To find the perfect double doors for your home, contact RWC Windows and Doors today at 973-435-4230, or visit our showroom at 686 Passaic Avenue, West Caldwell, NJ 07006.
Why A Bay Window Can Lavishly Innovate Your Home
Getting the most out of home renovations requires going beyond pure functionality. The updates should look good, be easy to use, and be fun to use as well. This ensures that they will provide long term satisfaction as well as utilitarian benefits.
One upgrade that does all of these things is the bay window. Bay windows do everything that windows are supposed to, such as let in light and keep the outside air from blowing through the house, but that’s just the start. They also add a distinctive flair to the exterior and provide a convenient place for those inside to sit and have some coffee.
What Are Bay Windows?
Bay windows are sets of windows that are arranged so that they protrude from the house. Typically, they use one large picture window at the center and a smaller window at each side. The smaller windows can be opened to let air in. In some installations, the picture window in the center is switched out to a fully-functional version as well. This version is also known as a canted window.
Why Choose This Style?
In terms of exterior decor, this style is excellent because it breaks up the flatness of a home’s outside walls. Making the same sort of shape out of a solid material would look strange, but when it’s done with windows, it catches people’s eyes in all of the right ways.
Inside the home, a bay window lets in plenty of light and becomes a focal point of the room it is part of. Since the window set sticks out, it also adds a bit of space to the inside of the house. A typical way to use this space is to add a bench. This lets people sit right in the window and enjoy the view.
Don’t These Windows Make the House Hot?
ack in the days of single-pane windows, the bay design would cause the house to heat up much like a greenhouse. Now, that problem has been solved. Insulated, double-glazed glass keeps the heat outside where it belongs and ensures that it will be very pleasant to sit in the nook created by the bay shape.
Are There Any Other Types of Windows to Keep in Mind?
There are indeed other types of windows that can really dress up a house. These are often selected to meet certain needs as well as to look good.
Bow Windows
The first is a simple variant on the bay window known as the bow window. Bow windows use several smaller subunits to create the shape, and this greatly diminishes the appearance of angles in the finished result. It’s also more typical for each subunit of a bow window to have the ability to be opened, which is good for those who want to let the breeze in on warm summer nights.
Sliding Doors
Because of the wide expanse of glass they present, these are really more like windows than doors; hence their inclusion in this list. They are so big that you can slide them back and walk right outdoors through them. They’re excellent for parts of the house that face picturesque scenes, so they’re often set up to overlook landscaped back yards.
Picture Windows
These are typically just as big as sliding doors, but are set permanently in place. They don’t open, so their main use is to allow those inside of a house to have a great view. Picture windows are quite impressive to see from the outside, as well.
Decorative Windows
Windows don’t have to be big to be impressive. Add interest to the outside of your home and bring light indoors by having a sprinkling of small, uniquely-shaped accent windows put in strategic spots.
For all of your New Jersey window needs, talk to us here at RWC. We’ll put our many years of design and installation to work for you so you get the perfect results.
Helpful Winterizing Tips For Your Home [Infographic]
Winter will be here before we know it! Winterizing your home is important because it saves energy, increases comfort and can even prevent damage. Fortunately, most of the steps in this process are simple. Here are a few things you can do to prepare for the coldest months of the year:
Sources:
www.plumbing-geek.com/prevent-frozen-pipes.html
www.rwcnj.com/ourproducts/windows.htm
Useful Thanksgiving Kitchen Survival Tips and Tricks
Thanksgiving is likely more well-known for huge quantities of home cooking than any other holiday. This holiday involves an average of 12 guests, all of whom will be waiting for your homemade food.
Because of this, you have surely put plenty of thought into what to buy, when to cook it, and just when to serve it. Still, there’s one big thing that you may have overlooked:
The Kitchen
This is the hub of Thanksgiving Day cooking action, yet you likely don’t give it a second thought until it’s time to actually start preparing the feast. After all, you see this room every day, and it is likely fine for the needs of two, three, or four people. It’s only when you need to cook for more that problems become obvious. Here are some of the elements that are worth paying special attention to:
The Refrigerator
Keeping the turkey fresh before and after the holiday is very challenging if your refrigerator isn’t big enough. Taking a shelf out can provide the headroom a whole turkey needs, but if the fridge isn’t wide enough, there’s nothing you can do to expand it. Therefore, you should seriously think of getting a bigger unit if the current one is too narrow.
The Oven
Most of the year, you likely only bake one or two things at a time. However, Thanksgiving often involves baking, roasting, or heating several dishes at once. The easiest way to deal with this challenge is to put in a double oven. Then, there’ll be no trouble baking some things at 400F and keeping other things warm at 250F.
Warming Trays
If you’re hesitant to add a double oven, get some warming trays instead. These can keep already-cooked food warm until everything else is ready to go. Once the holiday is over, they can be stored away until the next big event.
Cooling Stations
Heat may be the star of the kitchen, but some foods are far better off kept cold. Your salads, fruit cocktails, and drinks will stay at the perfect temperature if you add a cooling station to your kitchen. This will save you from having to try to juggle things in and out of the main refrigerator.
A Good Pot Rack
Have you ever experienced the frustration of having a stack of big pots fall over because you had to get one from the middle of the pile? Get a new pot rack to hang each one separately and ensure that this holiday goes smoothly. A stainless steel one will look impressive as well as organized.
New Cabinets
During most of the year, it may not be a big deal if the cabinet doors aren’t absolutely perfect. However, plenty of guests will see them during holidays. Have your cabinets spruced up or replaced if they aren’t in tip-top shape.
A New Floor
The principle is the same as for the cabinets. If you’ve been thinking that your kitchen floor doesn’t look too great anymore, now is the time to fix that by having new tile installed. Not only will your guests enjoy the new look, you’ll get to enjoy it yourself for a long time to come.
A Big Dishwasher
Once the celebration is over, you’ll be left with heaps of dishes to clean. Make this job as easy as possible by having a new, large dishwasher put in. The latest models will make short work of the stacks.
Here at RWC, we specialize in upgrading and remodeling New Jersey homes so they are both more useful and more beautiful. Give us a call or contact us through our site to learn about our kitchen upgrades, get appliance suggestions, or to have us design an entirely new kitchen that will work for you. We can have your new design created and installed in time for you to use this Thanksgiving if you call us now.
Informative Tips To Help Get Your Home Ready For Winter
Your home is a warm and inviting place to come in out of the cold this winter. Make certain it's ready to serve as a place of refuge for your family and friends once Old Man Winter's winds start to blow.
Be Prepared for Snow Removal
These past few year's snows and ice packed New Jersey's hospital emergency rooms with throngs of injured people. Don't become a statistic this year. Make certain you're stocked with the appropriate tools and materials to keep your front porch and sidewalks free of ice and snow.
Before the first snowflake falls, purchase deicer, sand and a good snow shovel. You may even want to consider purchasing a snowblower if you can't or don't want to physically shovel the snow from your driveway and walkways. If you drive to work, make certain you have a good quality ice scraper so you can see to drive safely.
Tips for Shoveling Snow Safely
Removing snow and ice from your walks is important for your and your guests' safety. Shoveling snow can be dangerous as well. If you're not accustomed to exercising, then moving several hundred pounds of snow with a shovel will put a significant strain on your heart. When it's cold outside, your arteries constrict which makes it more difficult for blood to reach your brain and extremities. According to the National Safety Council, people over the age of 40 who are relatively inactive should be particularly aware of the dangers associated with snow shoveling.
To be safe, keep these tips in mind when shoveling snow.
- Work slowly and stretch your body before you begin.
- Don't shovel after eating or while smoking.
- Push the snow with the shovel instead of lifting it.
- Fresh snow is lighter so try to work right after a snowfall.
- Don't work until you feel exhausted.
- Take breaks as necessary.
Make Guests Feel Welcome
Once your guests and friends have braved the ice and snow to pay you a visit, make sure they're greeted warmly. And that includes much more than simply clearing the sidewalk and offering them a mug of hot chocolate. Your front door is your visitors' first impression of your home and you. It should be a beautiful space that guests want to enter. You can certainly make the door more inviting with wreaths, decorations and festive flair, but the door itself says a lot about your style and personal tastes. It should be consistent with the rest of your home's decor and feel.
Installing a new door will not only make your home a more pleasant, inviting sanctuary from the cold, but it will also make your home more modern and increase its curb appeal all year long.
Be Sure It's Toasty Warm Inside
When it's frigid outside, you want the inside of your house to be comfortable and warm. But if your is drafty, it certainly won't a place you want to spend much time. What's more, if you keep adjusted your thermostat to account for the drafts, your utility bill could increase substantially. Check the doors and windows for gaps that can allow air to seep into your home. While caulking and weatherstripping might help some, new, custom-built windows and doors are the best way to keep cold air outside and warm air inside where you live.
If your windows and doors need to be replaced, contact RWC in West Caldwell, New Jersey. We'd love to assess your home and make a recommendation about windows and doors that will keep your home warm and inviting all winter long. Request an appointment using our convenient online form or give our friendly staff a call today at 973-435-4230.
Make Your Front Door Festive This Holiday Season
Your front door is probably the most widely used door in your entire house. When you want to give your home a festive flare, deciding how to decorate can be overwhelming. Whether you want to simply decorate your front door, or you want to make your whole yard a holiday display, a little planning can help you get the project under control. To make the most out of this holiday season, have some fun making your home look beautiful.
Creating a Budget
It may seem silly to create a budget for your holiday decorating, but outdoor decoration costs can quickly get expensive. Decide on a budget, and figure out what you can do within those budget parameters. There are many creative, yet inexpensive options to consider when you want to decorate without spending a lot of money. From well-placed spotlights, to greenery found in the woods, you can make a beautiful front door display that you and your neighbors will enjoy.
Start with Your Greenery
Some people choose to use fake greenery with lights already installed within. Made for the outdoors, garland strands that look like real greenery can make your front door pop. If you prefer natural greens, a hike through the woods can give you the brush that you need. Make sure that you aren't on private property, and go for a walk with a pair of thinning shears. You'll be amazed at the wonderful decorations you can find for your front door that are straight from nature.
Consider Your Lighting Options
A well-placed spotlight on your decorated front door can make a big impact. You can also try creating a path of solar lights leading up to your front door. If you are going all out during this festive holiday season, you can fill your front trees and bushes with lights to bring joy into the darkness. The holiday season is one full of love and light, and your home decor should reflect these sentiments.
Holiday Wreaths Both Traditional and Creative
Holiday wreaths are a traditional way to decorate your front door, but today's holiday wreath is far from boring. While you can make a wreath out of greenery, pinecones and ribbon, you can also use almost anything to make a wreath for your front door. You can even use recycled mason jar lids to make a fun, original wreath to decorate your front door. With a little time, twine and paint, you can create a holiday wreath that can be used for any variety of holidays.
Spread Cheer with a Positive Word
Hope, Joy, Love. No matter what word you believe in this holiday season, you can showcase your favorite word on your front doorwith a few simple steps. Using some strong cardboard, cut out the letters of the word you have chosen. You can try piece of cloth roughly 12 inches wide, hanging it from the top of your door and letting it hang down to the door knob area. Spray your cardboard letters with glittery spray paint, and attach the letters in order on the cloth. You can heavy duty staples to adhere the letters to the cloth. Consider small twigs, pinecones, or other decor to place around the letters for added decoration.
Gift Wrap Your Front Door
One of the easiest ways to make your home more festive is to gift wrap your front door. This can be done using material made to look like ribbon, and a large bow placed where the two material ribbons cross. You can also completely wrap your front door in wrapping paper, but you can choose to leave the door bare as well.
To find the perfect door for your home, contact RWC Windows and Doors today at 973-435-4230, or visit our showroom at 686 Passaic Avenue, West Caldwell, NJ 07006.
Our Ultimate Guide on How to Winterize Your Windows
Winters in the Tri-State area are notoriously cold. Although last year brought milder temperatures and reduced fuel prices, experts are forecasting a remarkably cold winter with exceptionally higher fuel prices. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expects this winter to be 13 percent colder than last year. As a homeowner, the costs associated with keeping your home warm are of great importance. By taking strategic measures, including winterizing your windows, you can reduce the cost of heating your home and protecting your home from water getting in through your windows. As you know, the presence of moisture can lead to mold. In fact, experts estimate that winterizing your home can lead to a 30 percent reduction in the cost of heating your home. However, before you start the process of weatherproofing your windows, you should have an energy audit conducted so that you can focus on the areas of your home where you lose the most energy. Continue reading if you would like to learn about how to winterize your windows for your home.
What Is an Energy Audit?
An energy audit is a home assessment that measures your home’s efficiency. Experts consider your home tight if you are not losing energy due to cracks or drafts in your windows. Most energy audits are not exclusive to windows. In fact, your energy auditor can check your water heater and other aspects of your home to ensure proper insulation. With proper insulation, you will reduce the amount of energy you consume this winter. A reduction in energy consumption will lead to lower heating costs, ultimately. Once your energy audit is over, you can choose to replace damaged windows before winterizing them. As a professional in home improvement, our team at RWC encourages you to replace windows that are 10-years-old or older. Dated windows are more prone to energy loss, which could cost you hundreds of dollars in increased utility bills each year. Our professional window installation includes:
- The delivery of custom-built windows to your door.
- The removal of old windows.
- The installation of energy-efficient windows.
- The insulation of gaps and holes in your window frame.
- Caulking both the interior and exterior seals with high-grade caulk.
- The removal of any debris stemming from the installation of your windows.
As homeowners too, we understand the importance of your window replacement project. At every step of the way, we want to ensure that you get the look and quality you deserve when you choose RWC.
What Are Your Options for Replacement Windows?
There are many types of windows on the market. As a homeowner, it is important to choose a window that meets your aesthetic requirements. It should also meet the functional requirements you have too. The following are the most common window types and ways you can easily weatherize these windows.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are one of the most popular types of windows. For many homeowners, single-hung windows are a cost-effective way to get the look they desire for their homes. These windows are less expensive than other windows. They also come in a wide variety of styles and finishes. One drawback to purchasing these windows is the cleaning process. Single-hung windows must be cleaned on the inside and outside too, which can be challenging for large homes with multiple windows. Single-hung windows are simple to weatherize. You should start by using your choice of weatherstripping, including using felt, spring V-seals, tubular rubber-gasket weatherstripping, or adhesive-backed foam. With the goal of eliminating drafts, you should begin the process of weatherstripping early to reduce your energy costs for the winter.
Double-Hung Windows
Another favorite for homeowners is double-hung windows. Double-hung windows open at the top and the bottom, giving you the ability to ventilate your home with ease. By opening the top portion of the window, you can allow hot air to escape your home while the open bottom window allows cooler air to come in. The ability to open both portions of the window also improves your ability to clean your windows. By tilting a double-hung window inside, you can clean the outside of your window without hassles. Another benefit to purchasing double-hung windows is improved insulation. As a standard, manufacturers equip double-hung windows with features that help prevent drafts. In fact, new double-hung windows come with weatherstripping pre-installed along with the header, seal, sash, and vinyl interlock. Although weatherstripping is included with double-hung windows, you should take measures to weatherize these windows as well. For instance, you can choose to add specialty curtains to keep heat in your home.
Casement and Awning Windows
Casement windows are windows that are attached by hinges. These windows break up the monotony when it comes to your home’s curb appeal. Casement windows are different from awning windows, in that these windows are hinged at the side while awning windows are hinged at the top. Like you, many homeowners like casement and awning windows because these windows do not obstruct your view. Neither of these windows has muntins that inhibit your view of the outside. Muntins are the strips of wood or metal embedded in your windows horizontally and vertically. Another benefit of casement and awning windows is catching breezes at an angle. By opening at an angle, casement and awning windows are capable of capturing side breezes that ventilate your home. Use the following methods to weatherstrip your casement windows: Weatherstripping- Use weatherstripping along the opening of casement windows to minimize drafts. Spray Foam- Prevents energy loss by expanding into the gaps around the frame of your window. Insulated Curtains- You can also add insulated curtains to keep the heat inside your home. The method you use for winterizing your casement and awning windows depends on what aspect of the window you are winterizing. Keep reading to learn what measures are best for movable and immovable components of your windows.
Bay Windows
Bay windows are great options for homeowners. Also, known as bowed windows, bay windows prove to be both aesthetically appealing and functional. These oversized windows give homeowners an expanded view of their lawn while offering some much-needed features like extra seating and storage. Much like other windows, winterizing your bay windows is simple. Although insulated curtains and blinds may detract from the beauty of your bay window, you can still use draft snakes, weatherstripping, and caulking to prevent cold air from entering your bay window this winter.
Specialty and Historic Windows
When you have specialty windows, such as basement windows and skylights, you can use many of the same methods for winterizing your home. However, it is important for you to consider the design and functionality of the window to be effective at winterizing specialty windows. If you have older windows, such as those found in historic homes, winterizing them is especially important. All too often, old windows are drafty and lead to substantially higher energy bills in the winter months. As such, winterizing these windows are essential to reduce costs and maintain a level of comfort you have grown accustomed to in the milder months. The best way to ensure that your historic windows are winterized without being damaged is to use materials that are easily removable. For instance, you should look for adhesives that are milder or purchase caulk that is high-quality so that it will not interfere with the construction of your windows. In addition to those methods, you should use insulated curtains and other methods to protect these windows. If you are not sure, or you do not feel confident about your ability to weatherproof specialty or historic windows, you can always hire a professional to winterize these windows for you.
Understanding Energy-Efficient Windows
There is more to choosing a window than deciding on the style of window you want. In fact, when reducing your heating bill is of the utmost importance to you, then it is essential that you consider all the aspects of getting the most energy-efficient windows. But first, it’s important to understand the benefits of energy-efficient windows.
The Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows go beyond reducing the cost of your heating bills. These windows help to keep your home comfortable, including helping your home maintain consistent temperatures throughout the day. They also help you reduce the cost of your HVAC by reducing the load requirements during peak performance each day. With a reduced load capacity, you can purchase smaller systems and keep them longer. Other benefits of purchasing energy-efficient windows include:
- Less condensation on your windows.
- Improved lighting in your home.
- Enhanced views of the outdoors.
Although energy-efficient windows are more of an investment than standard windows, they are worth the investment. With the right approach, you can offset the extra cost of your energy-efficient windows by saving money on your heating bills.
Factors to Consider When Assessing Energy-Efficient Windows
Manufacturers can include a variety of measures to make windows more energy-efficient, but even trained eyes can't look at a window and determine whether it reduces your energy consumption or not. Thus, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created national ratings to simplify the process. These ratings are determined by considering each window's U-factor. A U-factor or U-value is the rate at which windows prevent heat from escaping your home. A window with a low U-factor is better at maintaining your inside temperature during the winter months than U-factors that are higher. For instance, the DOE and EPA estimate that some triple-paned windows can have a U-factor of .15, compared to double-paned windows that can register a U-factor of .30 or lower. Another important factor to consider when you are comparing the performance of potential replacement windows is the center-of-glass U-factor. The center-of-glass U-factor is a measure of the efficacy of the glaze on your windows. To simplify your analysis, you should choose a window that has a lower center-of-glass U-factor compared to the U-factor for the whole window. You should also consider the following factors when determining the best replacement windows for your home. Double-paned/triple-paned windows—These are windows that are separated by gas to increase their ability to reduce energy loss within your home. Argon gas-filled panes—Argon gas is denser than air; therefore, the presence of argon gas between window panes improves your window's ability to keep your home warm. Window frames—There are many types of window frames, and each window frame helps you keep cold air out of your home. Your options for window frames include vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass, or composite window frames. Condensation Resistance—Condensation on your window is preventable. New energy-efficient windows have a condensation rating (CR) based on their ability to resist condensation. The higher the rating, the better your window will perform when your temperature in your home increases while it’s cold outside. Air leakage—Much like your U-factor, air leakage is a measurement that gives you insight into your window's ability to stop air from escaping your residence. You should choose a window that has a low air leakage (AL) rating because it will reduce the amount of heat that leaks out of your home. Within the Northern Zone, you should aim for an AL of less than .30. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient—Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) refers to how much solar energy your window absorbs. During the summer, SHGC can work against your ability to cool your home; however, during winter months, it can help you heat your home. As a resident of New Jersey or the surrounding areas, you should strive to find a window that has a high SHGC, since air conditioning isn’t a significant factor in the summer in New England. Specifically, look for ratings that are between .35 to .60, which will help warm your home in the winter. Although these factors determine how efficient your windows are, it’s easier to consider how energy efficient the window is overall by comparing U-factor ratings.
Consider Your Climate Before Installing Windows
The climate you live in is another important consideration when it comes to choosing windows for your home. The DOE and EPA base their recommendations for windows on your climate. The United States has four different requirements for windows to be considered Energy Star windows, based on the climate. In New Jersey and the surrounding area, the Northern Zone Required Properties are imposed. Based on these factors, you should consider windows that have U-factors of .25 or less to achieve maximum performance from your windows. Although not the best, you can benefit from U-factors that are equal to or less than .30.
Ways to Winterize Windows
After installing new replacement windows using our team at RWC, it makes sense to take every measure to keep your warm air inside. Although new windows are highly energy-efficient, taking extra steps to reduce energy loss is in your best interests. Fortunately, winterizing your windows is a do-it-yourself project. The process is simple, and it will not take a lot of your time compared to other home projects. The following are simple ways you can winterize your windows in a day’s work.
Caulking
Caulking your windows entails placing a sealant around your window seal. Not only does caulking your windows fill the gaps in your window frame, but it also prevents water from getting into your home. When you get your windows professionally installed by our team at RWC, we make sure your windows are properly caulked to prevent airflow and exposure to water. It is important to note, you should only use caulking to fill cracks, joints, and gaps on immovable components of your windows. Applying caulk to components that move will jeopardize your seal and undo all your hard work. Additionally, the size of the gap, joint, or crack you are caulking matters. Never use caulk to fill a gap that is one-quarter-inch wide; otherwise, your caulk may fail.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is the process of placing an appropriate barrier on your windows that will block the flow of air; weatherstripping functions much like caulk. To block gaps in your windows, try weatherstripping. The following are some materials used by professionals to weatherstrip homes.
- Felt
- Spring V-seal
- Tubular rubber-gasket weatherstripping
- Adhesive-backed foam
The method you use to block airflow depends on your preference and the part of your window you are weatherstripping. To maximize the effectiveness of your weatherstripping, you should consider using both caulking and weatherstripping when you winterize your windows. Although weatherstripping is an easy way to block air, not all joints, cracks, and gaps are conducive to this technique. We recommend you use weatherstripping around the sash of your windows and along with other moveable components of your windows. Additionally, it is important that you purchase the appropriate size of weatherstripping materials. Weatherstripping comes in various sizes and thickness; therefore, you should measure the gaps in each window to determine the appropriate weatherstripping to use; one size does not fit all when it comes to weatherstripping your home.
Insulated Curtains
When it comes to your home, it is imperative that it is always becoming. Often, winterizing your home can take away from the overall aesthetics. Fortunately, you can counter this by using insulated curtains and blinds to keep the elements out while improving your home's presentation if you don’t want to use weatherstrips around your windows. Insulated curtains are specialty curtains made with special backing. In general, the backing is constructed using a thick material, such as cotton, linen, or other durable materials. Insulated curtains work much like a blanket on your bed. The lining on the curtains works to keep heat in your home explains the DOE. Ironically, insulated curtains work great year around as well. Manufactured using thick fabrics, insulated curtains work hard to prevent the sunlight from entering your home, which often contributes to higher temperatures indoors during the warmer months. To keep your house cool without overworking your air conditioning system during the summer, invest in insulated curtains during the winter and be ready for the summer months too.
Replace Windows Screens with Panels
Layers often work better when it comes to winterizing, especially when you are winterizing your windows. With multiple layers, you can prevent all wind from entering your home. One layer you can add to help winterize your windows is adding window panels. Essentially, by removing the screens from your windows and replacing them with window panels, they will act as the first line of defense from the elements for your windows. Your window panels will block most of the wind and precipitation during the winter months while your windows block the rest.
Myths About Winterizing Windows
Before you dive into winterizing your windows, it is important to note what measures you should not take. At RWC, we like to educate and inform you to prevent you from wasting your money and your time. The following are some myths you should ignore when it comes to winterizing your windows.
Window Film Insulates Your Windows
Window film is an adhesive many people recommend to their friends and family members when they complain about a draft in their windows. It is essentially shrink wrap. You place it on your windows and apply heat until it takes the form of your window. Shrink wrapping your windows is an ineffective way to block drafts. If the wind is high enough, the shrink wrap will loosen, and you are back at square one.
Winterizing Your Home Does Not Save You Money
Winterizing your home is a great investment to reduce your energy costs. In fact, the DOE estimates that you can save between 5 to 30 percent off the cost of your energy bills. With the average cost of heating a home in New Jersey just under $106 a month, a 30 percent savings on your utility bill can save you a lot of money.
Repairing Instead of Replacing a Window Solves Draft Problems
There are times when you can easily repair a window, but there are times when it makes sense to replace your window; it’s important to know the difference. In many instances, homeowners repair a window because they want to delay getting the window replaced. However, doing this is the equivalent of throwing money down the drain when the window is severely damaged. To determine if your windows need a repair or if it needs replacing, we encourage you to give us a call. With nearly 60 years of industry experience, we are happy to assess your windows and give you an honest answer about the condition of your windows. Beyond window replacement, our team at RWC can help you with all your home improvement needs. From replacement windows to kitchen and bathroom renovations, we specialize in helping you achieve your renovation projects from the beginning to the end. We are the premier home improvement team for residents of New Jersey and the surrounding area. We encourage you to call us today so we can schedule an appointment to assess your home improvement needs.