6 Unique Types of Sinks For Bathrooms & Kitchens [INFOGRAPHIC]
Bathroom and kitchen sink designs have entered a new season, combining high-tech fixtures with materials other than porcelain and styles that bring the wash basin up-front and center, as both functional and stylish. Traditional bathroom sink designs included the pedestal basin, the drop-in sink, or the below counter bathroom sink. What you will notice today in kitchen and bath showrooms across the nation is a wider variety of bathroom sink styles, shapes, special sizes and materials for homeowners who are remodeling their bathrooms.
Choosing the Best Bathroom and Kitchen Sinks
The best way to find inspiration for choosing a unique bathroom sink is to visit a reputable kitchen and bath design consultant to see the different materials and styles, along with how different types of bathroom sinks look in a real setting - and not an internet image. To give you an idea of the different types of the sinks that are now available for homeowners who are renovating their bathrooms or kitchens, here is a list of 6 types of unique sinks:
- Console Sinks
- Pedestal Sinks
- Wall-Mount Sinks
- Farmhouse Sinks
- Bar Sinks
- Vessel Sinks
Honorable Mentions
- Undermount Sinks
- Vessel Sinks
- Corner Sinks
- Double Sinks
- Kitchen Island Sinks
- Kitchen Sinks with Drainboards
Each style has its own advantages and disadvantages that come down to your preference. If you are only replacing your bathroom sink, then you may be limited to a certain length and width to fit your current vanity. Also, if you'd like to replace your drop-in sink with a vessel sink, make sure you have the vertical space to suit the height of the sink. Double bathroom sinks are popular if you have space, but keep in mind you'll be losing some countertop real estate in the process. Finally, if you're switching to an undermount sink, the bathroom countertop needs to be a waterproof material such as a solid surface material or stone.
Considerations for Sink Material
Once you've selected a bathroom sink style, you can add more distinction or charm to a bathroom by selecting a different material than the previous sink. Consumer Reports has done extensive testing on bathroom sink materials and their results suggest:
Focus on the material. Our tests showed that the material is more important than the manufacturer. Similar materials performed similarly across brands, so we based our evaluations of sinks entirely on materials.
With this in mind, the list of sink materials today is so diverse that complementing your bathroom finishes is possible - from a sleek and polished look to the warmth of a country cottage bath or the bold colors and clean lines of contemporary bathroom decor.
- Stainless Steel
- Tempered Glass
- Ceramic
- Mixed Resin
- Bronze
- Porcelain
- Natural Stone
- Granite Compote
- Cast Iron
- Fireclay
A ceramic sink is a smooth and extremely hard surface and when completely sealed you don't have to worry about dirt or grime penetrating the surface. But it must be cleaned with a non-abrasive cleaner and without bristle brushes. Porcelain sinks are now available in vibrant colors as opposed to the white fired clay styles of the past. A porcelain sink needs to be cleaned every day to prevent a build-up of soap scum that can eventually discolor the surface.
For contemporary bathroom sink options, either a natural stone or resin material will offer the softness that these decors demand. Poly-resin blends are nonporous and resistant to scratches, stains, or discoloration. They often simulate the look of stone and the material can be cast in unique designs to create different forms or sizes. A quick wipe with a clean cloth after each use is the only required basic maintenance.
For modern bathrooms with highly polished surfaces, a stainless steel or bronze sinks are no longer relegated to the kitchen only and makes a good option for bathroom sinks. You will have your options of polished or satin finishes, and when you consider bronze as a material you can further distinguish the look by selecting a weathered or matte finish or a patina finish which is hand-rubbed to bring out the lowlights and highlights of the material.
Takeaways
- A new bathroom gives you the opportunity to increase your bathroom's beauty and functioning.
- Research the best bathroom sink materials and styles in person, at a kitchen and bath showroom
- A full-service kitchen and bath consultant can make sure your new sink fits your console
- You can make a dramatic change with the style sink in a new and vibrant material
When you need any sink replaced, speak with the experts at RWC Windows, Doors, and More to discover new design ideas that complement your family's style.
Project Spotlight: Pine Brook, NJ Kitchen Remodel
When we tackle a project at RWC, we go into it with dedicated knowledge and a keen interest in ensuring our client gets precisely what they want in an end result and the materials used. Our showroom allows clients to pick out the materials they want from one place instead of having to rely on multiple vendors. Our goal is to always eliminate the frustration from a remodeling project.
RWC Windows, Doors & More was established in 1959. Since that time, customers have relied on our professional remodeling services, including kitchen remodeling and bathroom remodeling. Customers rely on us to provide quality window and door installation - and we always make sure to deliver just that. Recently, RWC stepped into a client's outdated home in Pine Brook, NJ to make some incredible changes.
Kitchen Remodeling in Pine Brook, NJ
When it comes to kitchen remodeling in Pinebrook, RWC has got our clients covered with a full selection of cabinetry, flooring, and everything you want to make your kitchen look more like home. The custom project in this Pine Brook, NJ home involved a major kitchen overhaul. The kitchen in this home was outfitted with faded wooden cabinetry, bland beige countertops, and matching tile flooring.
During the remodel, RWC professionals took down the old cabinetry and replaced it with solid white cabinetry. The countertop setup was reconfigured with a new design layout, including a rectangular kitchen island in the center of the space. Natural stone style countertops brought a new layer of texture to the room to highlight the more updated design. The flooring was replaced with a polished stone-style flooring to tie the new natural look together.
Bathroom Remodeling in Pine Brook, NJ
To further upgrade the house, bathroom remodeling in the Pine Brook home took place during this RWC project. An older style vanity and mirror were replaced with a sleek, wider vanity with a squared inset sink and dark granite countertop.
Old faux marble wallpaper was removed and the walls were coated with a fresh coat of caramel paint to complement the honey hue of the new wooden vanity. According to Zillow, funky hues on the walls can be a major sign that a bathroom needs to be remodeled, and this bathroom was definitely suffering from the dated wallpaper.
Window Installation in Pine Brook, NJ
The project on this home involved replacing the outdated wooden windows with updated versions to enhance efficiency and the aesthetic appearance of the home. The living room got a brand new open portrait window with seamless glass to accent the interior and bring some natural light into the space. Paired with matching casement windows on each side, this change really opened up the room and gave it a new look.
Door Installation in Pine Brook, NJ
The front doors in the Pine Brook home were a bit dated. Two wooden panel doors with glass storm doors were removed and replaced with a much more modern set of half-glass French double doors in a rich cherry hue.
Takeaways
The Pine Brook, NJ home received some pretty drastic upgrades during this remodeling project, giving the house an entirely updated appearance. This home received:
- New custom cabinetry and countertops in the kitchen
- New windows in the kitchen and living room to bring in more natural light
- New French half-glass doors to elevate curb appeal
- New bathroom vanity and mirror, as well as a new wall color
If you have a planned remodeling project that you want to ensure turns out just right, reach out to us at RWC Windows, Doors & More to schedule a consultation. Whether your project is commercial or residential, we help you tackle your project with the professional guidance you need and the quality materials necessary.
The Best Home Improvement Gift: A Kitchen Remodel
When you consider home improvement gift ideas such as affordable kitchen remodeling NJ, it's not only a gift that brings a significant return on your investment, it's a gift that will bring satisfaction and joy, every single day. Today as in the past, the kitchen plays an important role in the family. It's usually the one place that everyone is together in the home for meals and has been the gathering place that is full of conversation, hugs, laughter, and love.
Home Improvement Ideas
The best place to start in giving the gift of a new kitchen is to visit an NJ kitchen design showroom to explore the many options you will have in styles, layout, and finishes. At this point, you can consider what type of kitchen layout would be right for your family. HGTV. com offers excellent coverage on the advantages of different kitchen layout styles. You can convert a smaller L-shape or galley kitchen into a horseshoe style to get more functionality, or a larger open space kitchen would be perfect for incorporating an island or peninsula counter.
Next, visit an NJ kitchen design showroom to explore kitchen decor styles from cozy country kitchen to a light and breezy coastal-inspired kitchen. Or maybe this is the perfect opportunity to add dramatic elegance that can change the personality of your entire home.
A Mediterranean-Style Kitchen with natural finishes such as stone, wood, clay and ceramic tiles along with deep, earthy shades offers a calming but elegant atmosphere, while highly polished surfaces and neutral colors can instill efficiency and cleanliness into a kitchen.
Getting from Here to There
You have two options in presenting a new kitchen as a home improvement gift - start early and have the new kitchen project finished by the holiday season or visit an NJ kitchen and bath showroom to have a design presentation created. Obtaining a draft proposal is one of the steps to remodeling a kitchen and can be given as the gift and the work can begin soon after the holiday season is over.
When you present a kitchen design as a gift, all family members have the chance to discuss alterations and additions to suit the needs of each family member. Expect to discuss the following details with an NJ kitchen design consultant:
- Cabinet styles and wood types
- Type of flooring and lighting fixtures
- Wall colors and backsplash material
- Countertop color and material
- Hardware style and finish
When considering home improvement gift ideas, keep in mind the main factors that you desire in your new kitchen - aside from architectural components and kitchen design trends. Look to making your new kitchen more spacious and more relaxing, with an improved appearance that fits your family's personality. And finally, a successful kitchen remodel should also increase the value of the home.
Affordable Kitchen Remodeling NJ
When you visit kitchen showrooms NJ, you will see a wide range of styles and materials to fit most all budgets. The benefit of working with a kitchen design consultant is discussing how far your money can go and innovative ways to scale the project back without sacrificing your main remodeling needs. For the best return on your investment, many experts agree that spending between 6% and 10% of your home's value is a good rule-of-thumb.
Takeaways
- Changing the kitchen layout is a good way to increase efficiency and comfort
- For a Christmas day surprise, give the gift of a 3-D color drawing of your kitchen design proposal
- A kitchen consultant is critical to offering acceptable trade-offs to stay within budget
- Consider spending between 6% and 10% of your home's value on a kitchen remodel
Always partner with trustworthy and honest kitchen and bath remodeling service providers to avoid second-rate materials or shoddy installations that can cost your family more money down the road. Contact RWC Windows, Doors, and More to begin your journey on giving the gift of a kitchen remodel.
How to Make Sure Your Home is Accessible to Family Members this Holiday Season
Making a home wheelchair accessible means taking a close look at parking and exterior stairs, the home's entryway, kitchen cabinet and table heights, interior access, open space, and a handicap accessible bathroom. This holiday season, you can make sure your home is accessible to all family members by knowing what features are most important for handicap accessible homes.
According to the United States Access Board:
...it is advisable to maximize opportunities for accessibility in alterations. Alteration of multiple elements in a home may provide a cost-effective opportunity to make the entire home fully accessible.
This statement is aimed at helping homeowners understand that it's not enough to simply alter the entrance into the home for wheelchair accessibility but to also consider multiple elements outside and within the home to further assist those in wheelchairs or those that have limited mobility. There are 3 considerations when deciding to alter your home for the holidays:
- Can they get into the house?
- Can they get through the doorways?
- Can they maneuver within the bathroom?
Making a Home Wheelchair Accessible
The first decision to make in creating a home accessible to all family members is to look at the path from curbside to the front door. You will need at least 32" clear to roll a wheelchair from the car and into your home. If all paved surfaces leading to the front door are flat and wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, then you may only need a small, portable ramp to overcome the home's landing. A ramp is the best temporary solution to make your home handicap accessible for the holidays.
Modifying the Home's Entryway
The next consideration to your handicapped guests or family members is determining if your door is wide enough to accommodate modern wheelchairs and electric scooters. This is a good time to partner with a professional window and door replacement service provider to select the right door that will not hamper access. Entrance ways can vary in width from 30", 32", and 36" with the door fully open. But chair sizes vary, so one smart option is to install double 30-inch entry doors to get a 5-foot clear space for all guest to enter.
Another entryway option includes choosing a wider door, such as a 36" or 42" exterior door installation. These wide doors can include decorative glass or stunning sidelights to impart a dramatic beauty and elegance to the home.
Handicap Accessible Bathroom
Finally, your handicapped or elderly guests will appreciate a bathroom that is modified to make it easier to maneuver and operate fixtures. A bathroom is considered usable with a wheelchair if it has a 60" diameter circle of clear space. If your bathroom is limited in space, then consider a bathroom remodel which may address the following:
- Replace the existing door with a pocket door to gain open space.
- Remove base cabinets to provide knee space under lavatory.
- Replace the tub with a walk-in shower unit.
- Enlarge bathroom by borrowing space from an adjacent room.
Takeaways
- Consider a modular, temporary ramp that is easy to install and remove
- Increase your entry door width and curb appeal with double entry door with sidelights.
- You gain more open door space (approx. 2 inches) with pocket doors instead of hinged doors.
- A bathroom remodel can benefit handicapped guests while improving style and function
If you're considering remodeling your home for the holidays, this is the perfect time to create a handicap accessible homes for your guests this season. Contact RWC Windows, Doors, and More for a one-stop solution for remodeling your home's bathroom and kitchen - and installing new doors and windows for the holidays.
How Replacing Your Windows Can Help You Save Money This Winter
With just a bit of research on the internet you will find many useful tips on how to lower your electric bill in Winter - from keeping your furnace clean to only heating the rooms you actually use, every bit of cold air you can keep out and any heat that you can get to stay in, will work together to reduce your heating costs. But the best energy saving tips really concern your windows and doors. According to Energy.gov - Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.
Understanding Heat Gain and Heat Loss
The thermal performance of your windows will depend on the tightness and material of the window frame, the configuration of the glass panes, along with additional features such as E-coatings. The windows in your home can allow heat loss in the following ways:
- heat radiating through the glass
- heat leaking out around the frame
- heat conducted out via the frame material
In the winter, these three factors will increase your energy costs. And even though windows also allow some heat gain from the sun's rays and the transfer of heat by convection from the outside into the home - during winter months, heat gain is minimal. Replacing your windows that are causing substantial heat loss is the most important of winter energy saving tips.
3 Ways to Reduce Heating Costs
Tip 1 - One way to reduce energy cost is to reduce the heat radiating out through the glass. Consider replacing your single pane windows with double pane, or insulated glass windows. Double glazed windows are separated by a vacuum or gas-filled space which acts to reduce heat transfer from indoors to outdoors - and vice versa.
Tip 2 - Choose replacement windows with frames that help limit the transfer of cold from the outside. Window frame materials that offer low heat conductance include fiberglass, insulated or hollow vinyl, and wood framed windows. Since wood is so prone to deterioration, if you have wood framed windows consider replacing them with an engineered material such as fiberglass.
Tip 3 - If your windows are old and the frames are showing signs of damage such as cracks, mold, dents, or frame separation, then replacement windows are the best solution. You will find some homeowners using plastic film or weather stripping to keep the winter winds from blowing in around the window frame, but this temporary solution is not practical as the cold air will still transfer through these materials.
Best Energy Saving Tips for Winter
- When you choose energy efficient windows with the Energy Star label, you can save "$27–$111 a year over double-pane, clear glass replacement windows."
- To reduce energy use from increased lighting during winter months, add motion detectors and timers to turn off lights in unoccupied rooms.
- Use shades or drapes on windows that are prone to high winds, and replace old door sweeps with heavy duty versions to block drafts that enter under the door.
- Get an energy audit to see where the most energy loss is occurring in your home. Often, leaky HVAC ducts, basements, and attics are causing a loss of heat in the home.
- Invest in a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature depending on the time of day or during preset times such as during work and school hours.
Takeaways
- Use multiple winter energy saving tips to get the most savings on your utility costs.
- If window frames are allowing cold air drafts, the best solution is to replace the windows in your home to lower electric bill in Winter
- Plastic film and weather stripping are only temporary solutions to heat loss through faulty windows
- Vinyl and fiberglass are the top performing materials for winter window replacement
RWC provides bathroom and kitchen remodeling, including design along with door installation and window replacement to homeowners in northern New Jersey. Contact us today to see how we can help prepare your home and windows for the Winter season!
4 Key Factors to Consider When Replacing Your Front Door
Architectural designers use the principle of establishing a focal point as a way to purposely draw the eye to a central feature of a home. Your front door is the focal point of your home's exterior and it is the first thing visitors really focus on. Create a striking, visual first impression by replacing an ordinary front door with a distinct architectural style or one that fits your family's personality.
A front door replacement not only adds a sense of style to your home, a good front door acts as a barrier against the great outdoors. According to energy.gov, "Your home's exterior doors can contribute significantly to air leakage, and can also waste energy through conduction, especially if it's old, uninsulated, improperly installed, and/or improperly air sealed."
Before installing a new front door on your home, consider these 4 key factors to making the right decision.
The Best Main Door Style for Your Home
If you’re wondering, what style front door should I get? The answer depends entirely on your preference. You will certainly find a wide array of exterior door styles when you visit a quality window and door replacement service provider - from high-end architectural styles to traditional doors that simply function as an entry into the home. You may not know but entry doors are divided into style classes such as single panel, flush, arched, and double entry doors. Within each style class, you will find many decorative residential options including etched or glass panels, and doors with sidelight panels.
Choosing the best style for your house can be purely intuitive. When you see the perfect door for your home, your instincts simply know that it's the right choice. You can also choose a door based on your home's architectural style. The internet is the perfect source to view your type of home featured with beautiful doors that compliment the home's exterior.
Qualities of a Door for Safety
Protecting your family against intruders is the main feature of your front door. For this reason, avoiding Big Box retailers and instead partnering with a window and door specialty company will give you access to important door knowledge that can help you choose the right door for security. More often, a secure door is one that has quality hardware and hinges is set in a strong frame and has an excellent locking mechanism such as a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt.
With this in mind, a good front door will be sturdy, solid, and able to withstand the elements for many years of useful service. Armored security doors are an expensive investment and keep in mind any door is only as good as the door frame and hardware.
Front Doors for Privacy
The entrance to your home is its largest opening, which is why the right front door must be chosen to add a level of privacy and intimacy to the home. You can have privacy and additional light by choosing a door with window panels that are made of safety glass or are frosted for privacy. Other options include doors with windows that are above eye-level, such as arched glass panels above the door.
A full glass front door offers a lovely view of nature and allows a stream of sunlight to enter the home. While they may be appropriate for wooded lots or private access homes, these doors do not allow for a level of privacy or security that most homeowners desire. You will find many options for doors that allow some light to filter in while providing a higher level of privacy.
Consider Your Budget
The front door replacement cost you’ll encounter depends on the door type, style, and material. Some cost factors for replacing a door include materials, labor, location, type, and framing needs. Most projects require hiring an expert for proper installation. When you consider your budget, consider the many door materials and types available:
- Wooden Door
- Steel Door
- Iron
- Fiberglass
- Composite
- Aluminum
- Solid Core vs. Hollow Core
The door purchase should be the greatest expense when you consider your budget. When you work with a reputable company, they will explain any compromises you make concerning costs over quality. But considering the importance of privacy and security, replacing your front door should not be an area to cut corners.
Takeaways
- Your front door is the focal point of your home's exterior.
- The best style selection can be intuitive or fit a specific architecture
- The safety of your door is directly linked to the strength of the frame
- Frosted glass panels allow for both increased light and privacy
- The largest part of your budget should be reserved for a quality front door
Want new front doors installed? RWC is an experienced home improvement contractor that provides high quality front door installation and window replacement for West Caldwell, NJ and surrounding communities.
Unique Interior Doors to Incorporate in Your Home
Most homeowners put a lot of thought into picking out the perfect exterior doors for their home, but the interior doors are just as important. The doors that stand as the dividers between your bedroom, dining room, or bathroom and the rest of the house really are critical design points, so you shouldn't simply stick to paneled doors that blend in. Unique interior doors can tie together a specific design idea. Take a look at some of the more unique interior door ideas for your home.
Sliding Farm Doors
Sliding farm-style doors, which are sometimes simply referred to as barn doors, have been showing up all over interior design conventions, and it is for good reason. These modern interior doors inject a certain rustic feel to a space while remaining stylish to accommodate a contemporary home. These unique doors are seated on wheel trolleys across the top so the door simply slides from one side to the other when it needs to be opened.
Country Barn Doors
If you have a house that is incorporated with a lot of country-style elements, barn doors really do make an excellent choice in interior door designs. These custom interior doors tend to look a lot like actual barn doors right down to the angled wood slat pieces or crisscrossed panels. To further up the country-rustic appearance, most homeowners go with hardware that compliments the beautiful style, such as wide-angled hinges or stately handles.
Half Doors
If you have a room that really only needs a basic divider but not a full-on closure at all times, half doors are a really cool option. Just as the name implies, half doors can be opened at the top, bottom, or both ends.
French Doors
Making a dramatic impression at the entry point of one room to the next can be as simple as installing a set of french doors as the interior divider. French doors have been a popular home element in rooms like dining and living rooms for a really long time, but are most often an exterior feature. They work just as well to elevate the level of class inside of the house, and you can go for either inexpensive versions or top-end designs depending on what you like. You can find french doors between $350 and $4,000, which shows just how basic or extraordinary you can go.
Shoji Screen Doors
If you're going for a Zen feel in your bathroom, Shoji screen doors really set the stage for a true Asian-like spa experience when you step into your bathroom. These doors, which are quite traditional in European or far-eastern countries, have a wooden frame with screened squares that allow natural light to stream through. The screens are not see-through, so you still get that same level of privacy you want in a private space.
Takeaways On Interior Door Ideas
- Unique interior doors can tie together an overall interior design theme
- Unique bedroom doors are becoming more and more popular
- Choosing interior doors should be a carefully considered process
- Not every interior door has to be the same type
Interior Door Replacement Services in NJ
The interior doors you choose for your home can make a huge difference in the overall design and value of the house. If you would like help with choosing interior door design ideas for your home, reach out to us at RWC Windows, Doors & More for professional assistance. We’ll handle everything from generating internal door ideas to complete door installation!
What to Look For When Hiring A Window Company In The North Jersey Area
When you decide to replace the windows in your home, the first decision is not which window material or window styles you will choose - but instead, you may wonder what to look for when searching for contractors or comparing the best window companies in NJ. High-pressure sales tactics can be one warning sign that the company may be hiding a lack of quality workmanship or they may be selling substandard products at an unreasonable price.
To make sure your window replacement experience doesn't end with regrets, here are some ways you can tell if you're dealing with an unqualified, outdated marketing tactic or a company built on performing the best job for their customers.
Choosing the Best Window Companies NJ
Research - References, Reviews, and Ratings
A good window company will reference some of its best work in a photo gallery as a visual testament to the work they are most proud of. This is your first indication of if the company is right for you, especially if you need custom windows or are looking to add windows that increase the architectural style of the home. Some companies choose to post completed projects on social media sites instead, which is also great because you can look at any comments that are posted by customers.
In addition to checking the company's business website, look for customer reviews and ratings from independent sites. Yelp & Facebook are local consumers' most trusted review sites, followed by Google & BBB.org
Comparing Costs is Relative
If you have a budget you must stick to, then carefully comparing costs is essential, but you must compare apples to apples. Home improvement cost analysis sites such as HomeAdvisor will offer a ballpark range, but it really depends on the quality of windows and the company that you choose. Homeowners should be wary of companies with low window replacement costs - there is a reason why they can reduce their prices and it usually indicates low-quality material or labor.
Use the ballpark cost projections in addition to other information as a guideline that indicates the quality of the company's services.
Choose Certified Window Installers
Window quality is important, but installation is even more important. When you choose a window replacement company that certifies their technicians, it means they have been fully trained in window company best practices. A quality installation will follow the window manufacturer's requirements along with ASTM Standard E2112 Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights. Speak directly to the company about how their technicians are company-trained and if they are nationally certified.
Avoid companies that use 1 or 2 trained workers with a crew of laborers - every window installed should be level, plumb, square, watertight, sealed, and allow for thermal expansion.
Checking the Company's Paperwork
All reputable companies should have ready access to certain documentation that proves they are working above board. These include a strong manufacturer's warranty (based on length of time and level of coverage) and also ask about the process involved if there is a problem with the installation itself. Whatever company you choose they should always carry the necessary liability insurance, workers compensation, technical data on any windows that are labeled energy efficient, in addition to a General Contractor's License.
Takeaways
- High-pressure sales tactics may be a warning sign that should not be ignored.
- Always research the company's website and independent reviews and ratings.
- Ask questions about the window company best practices and window design ideas.
- Make sure the company has liability insurance and is a licensed contractor.
- Comparing costs can be misleading - rule out extremely low or exceptionally high services
Don't leave a major home improvement project like residential window replacement to guesswork. Do the research, ask the questions, and check the paperwork before you sign on the dotted line. RWC specializes in bathrooms renovations, door replacement, window replacement, and kitchen remodeling so feel free to contact us with any questions you may have - we would be happy to help!
Window Damage Repair 101: How to Spot Window Damage
Windows are an integral part of every home, and often one of the first fail points as a house ages. Anyone who owns or rents a house understands the basic function of a window. What some people may not realize is that windows are intended to be replaced. It isn't a big job or large renovation, but new windows can help keep down heating and cooling bills and maintain a level of comfort and safety in the home. Although windows should be inspected by a professional on a regular basis to ensure they are performing at peak efficiency, there are definitive signs of when a window is beyond repair and undergoing a potentially catastrophic need for replacement.
Evaluate Cosmetic Damage
Although a professional can search for more definite signs your windows need replacement, such as potential structural failure, the homeowner can easily look for obvious signs concerning cosmetic appeal which may indicate a window is not serving its intended purpose. Vinyl replacement windows, although they are in most cases virtually indestructible, ultimately have an endpoint at which time they are either unable to function properly or are no longer up to modern standards and expectations of a window. Wooden frames offer more opportunities for window repair as they age, and can be an architectural aspect of a building which may not warrant window replacement even when they no longer are providing their proper function, but typically when a window is past its useful life it is best to replace it with a new one.
Look for Structural Flaws
Structural flaws are more difficult to determine than cosmetic damage, but there are some signs which indicate window frame damage. Condensation inside the window or between the panes of glass is an absolute determination of how the window is failing. In some cases, there may be an issue with the building settling over time, and the window issue can be repaired by addressing the framework around it, but in general terms if that is the case the window is going to need replacement along with whatever is necessary to stabilize the framework around it. Each situation is a bit different and window frame repair requires the advice of a professional to determine what the best course of action may be.
Determine if the Glass is Stable
In some cases, window glass can be cracked or broken from causes like water damage, termite damage, or hail damage during a storm, and window glass repair will be needed. Any glass shop can add a new piece of glass for a fairly inexpensive price, but that doesn't compensate for the stable gas used between panes to help insulate the house. It's usually a better idea to simply replace the window. The labor cost is going to be the same to remove the window, whether a new one goes in or the old one is reinstalled, and the price of properly replacing the glass is going to be comparable to the price of a new window, so there really isn't much reason to keep the older one.
Takeaways
If your windows don’t seem to be serving their purpose, they may require window damage repair. Review a few items in order to determine how best to proceed:
- Check for cosmetic appeal and visible damage.
- Determine if there is underlying structural damage.
- Seek the advice of a professional for damaged windows.
At such a time, contact us at RWC so we can have an expert provide you with an evaluation and provide a recommendation as to what can be done to remedy the problem and which new windows may best serve the needs of the home. A professional representative will be happy to meet at your convenience to discuss our window repair in NJ!
How to Know When to Remodel Your Bathroom
More and more homeowners are looking to replace outdated bathroom decor and inefficient fixtures with stylish, state-of-the-art features that create an oasis of pleasure. But for others, the bathroom remains a functional room in the home and these homeowners may wonder how to really know the signs of when to remodel your bathroom.
Consumer Reports conducted an analysis and reported that homeowners will generally recoup 62 percent of the investment from remodeling your bathroom at the time of resale, and suggests homeowners spend no more than 5 to 10 percent of your home’s value when remodeling the master bath. But it doesn't matter if you're preparing to sell your home or if you simply want to know the obvious signs to remodel your bathroom.
Signs to Remodel Your Bathroom
For powder rooms, secondary bathrooms, and the master bath, if these spaces have a bad layout or can no longer support the needs of your family, then you will be pleasantly surprised at the changes a remodeled bathroom will make. Newer bathrooms make great use of vertical space for storage, will incorporate energy efficient showers, faucets, and toilets - and can add a sense of luxury at reasonable prices. Here are five signs that will certainly justify a bathroom remodel:
- Structural or architectural problems include floor/wall tile that is cracked, dirty and moldy grout, water that doesn't flow towards the drain, cracked tub/sink, a wet floor, discolored shower walls, insufficient lighting, or non-functioning fixtures and cabinets are all signs that the bathroom is near or at the end of its service life for either architectural materials or plumbing fixtures.
- Your bathroom no longer fits the family in size, comfort, or functionality. Maybe your family has grown in number or age, either way remodeling your bathroom to accommodate changing family needs, creating a common solution for family members that need more space or more privacy.
- Leaky fixtures and outdated sinks/tubs/toilets are quietly siphoning water that may or may not be noticed as leaks. Also, consider that toilets can account for nearly 30 percent of an average home's indoor water consumption according to the EPA. This is an important issue to fix because moisture and humidity make the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Not only that, outdated fixtures are major water wasters - especially toilets and showers.
- An ineffective layout is a great reason to remodel any bathroom as designers now use space planning software to get the most functionality out of limited spaces. A streamlined bathroom might replace a bulky cabinet/sink combo with a pedestal version and a full tub/shower with a glass-enclosed step-in shower.
- Poor lighting that increases frustration for detailed tasks such as shaving and applying makeup may not seem important, but having excellent overhead lighting along with task lighting will make these daily activities easier and more enjoyable. For your family's safety, bathrooms should be well lit with dry floors and a minimum of sharp edges.
Bathroom remodeling can range from updating surface materials such as new flooring, paint, and cabinetry to a complete demolition of all the old fixtures, components, and finishes to create a completely new bathroom style with improved functionality. Either of these two options can use the help to a professional service that specializes in both design consultation and home remodeling.
Takeaways for the Homeowner
- Plan your lighting fixtures to include task, general/ambient, and accent lighting.
- Quality materials for the floor and countertops should be a priority.
- Water efficient fixtures can save thousands on your annual utility bills.
- Expect to get a return on your bathroom remodel investment when selling the home.
- Treat your family to a luxury feature such as a body spray or rain shower head.
When you need direction on how to remodel your bathroom, contact RWC Windows, Doors, and More for expert consultation and professional installations that will turn your outdated bath in a dream spa for the family.