Everything You Need To Know About Exterior Window Trim Styles & Ideas
Outdoor window trim styles are selected to complement certain home features such as your siding, doors, and windows to achieve a particular architectural style or decorative appearance. But, According to Energy.gov, it is a combination of window elements that attribute to increased energy efficiency by acting to minimize gaps which allow air to enter or escape the home.
...there are a variety of options for consumers who are looking to improve the energy efficiency of their existing windows. Used individually or in combination, they can help to mitigate heat loss, reduce drafts, and generally make your home a more comfortable place to be this winter."
After deciding to replace the windows in your house, it is also a good idea to replace the window trim. In modern-styled windows, the window trim is a separate component that is nailed against the home's exterior sheathing, around the entire window. Its purpose is to act as an air and moisture barrier, and as a decorative addition to the windows appearance.
Good window trim prevents the backflow of water between the architectural components of a home. Consider these 4 exterior window trim styles to accentuate your home and increase the functioning of your window system.
Outdoor Window Trim Ideas & Styles
Provincial Architectural Trim
When considering simple, yet classic exterior window trim ideas for your home's exterior windows, the French Provincial style architectural trim will offer a balanced and symmetrical profile to homes with steep roofs, brick or stone exteriors, or porches with balustrades. Provincial trim is also seen on country style homes that feature more intricate architectural features. When you desire a country elegance as opposed to a city-modern style - especially on larger homes, provincial trim is a good choice.
Craftsman Style Window Trim
If your home is of a bungalow or Craftsman style with wide trim and window groupings, then the simple, clean lines of Craftsman style window trim is a good option. Similarly, any home with thick columns on the front porch and a low-pitched roof with wide eaves can benefit from this simple but elegant design style. Often a multi-piece trim is needed to create the wide and thick Craftsman style window trim.
Classic Ranch Exterior Trim
Ranch homes are distinguished by a casual and low profile and typically feature a “U” or “L" shaped layout. Likewise, the Ranch style trim has a modern look with little embellishment, to flow naturally with the clean lines of this architectural style. Since these homes have larger, horizontal glass spans, the window trim is simple and unobtrusive.
Colonial Style Window Trim
The distinct side-gabled roof and double-hung windows that are evenly-spaced on Colonial style architecture may also feature angle-shaped and curved exterior window trim. Yet, any home that features multi-paned windows in a symmetrical grouping can benefit from this style of window trim. A good choice to accentuate these homes is to select trim that features flat casing with a crown and sill.
Exterior Trim Options
Once the homeowner has mated the right trim style with the home's architectural look, there are exterior window trim options including materials such as wood, low maintenance aluminum, or composite that are durable and maintenance free. Often the paint finish options will match the home's door and window frame colors, but the visual appeal can be increased with a contrasting window trim color. Consider each element of your window trim, including:
- Style (Provincial, Classic Ranch, Craftsman Exterior Style, etc.)
- Exterior Window Trim Material
- Finish Color
- Sill Options
For highly-modern homes or distinctive styles such as Victorian homes, custom trim profiles can be manufactured to suit a unique decorative approach. Window trim options are the perfect way to reflect your personal taste and to create the right look for your home.
Takeaways
- A professional window trim installation will increase the home's energy performance.
- When replacing your home's windows, consider replacing the exterior window trim.
- Window trim architectural styles can crossover to fit any home's exterior features.
- A contrasting window trim adds a visual excitement to a home's exterior.
When considering a window replacement project or when looking to update your home's curb appeal with modern exterior window trim ideas, color, and material, contact RWC. We provide full-service window and door design consulting and installation, along with bathroom and kitchen remodeling to homeowners in northern New Jersey.
*The article below has been updated and was originally written in May 2017.*
The trim you choose for your windows can make a big difference in the overall look of your home. With the variety of styles to consider, you may want to learn more about window trim styles so you can make a decision based on what will go well with the decor in your home. The style of your home matters, as different styles will match your home while others won't. If you aren't sure what window trim styles work in your home, it's time to do some research about window trim.
Window trim for your home can be made out of several different kinds of wood. Fir, pine, redwood, and cedar are four popular wood choices of exterior window trim for your home. Other materials used for window trim can include synthetic materials, bamboo, or vinyl. The most popular material used in exterior window trim is wood, and the different finish options make wood the most versatile window trim option for homeowners.
Knowing the Style of Your Home
The style of homes in the United States coincide with the variety of window trims available. Between Ranch, Craftsman, Provincial, or Colonial, it's possible to determine which type of home you have by the exterior style, the number of floors, and the decor. Colonial homes are generally those that are rectangular and have a second floor with bedrooms. Ranch homes are generally one story with a built-in garage. Craftsman homes tend to have a wide front porch, a second floor but with low hung eaves. Provincial style homes are usually brick or stone, with a lavish, intricate design. While there are other styles of homes found in the US, these are some of the most commonly found throughout the country.
Prefinishing Options for Window Trim
When you want to choose the specific color of your exterior window trim, you can make your finishing choice right in the showroom of RWC Windows, Doors & More. You have the option of having your window trim treated any tone or color that you want with the help of RWC. You can have your exterior window trim samples hand painted right in front of you in the showroom so that you can be sure of the color and style you are getting.
You can also opt for exterior window trim that is already stained or painted and ready to hang. Window trim that is already finished for you can offer you time savings and give your windows a uniform look.
Curved Trim for Window Trim
There are options when you need curved window trim to finish your windows. Whether you choose a flexible trim to give your window the perfect look, or you have window trim specifically designed for your window, you have choices. Pine can be used when a slight curve is needed, as pine window trim is quite flexible. Talk with your window treatment specialist at RWC to determine how you can properly trim out your windows.
The Four Basic Exterior Window Trim Styles
There are four main window trim styles that include:
- Colonial window trim is used in colonial style homes and some farm homes to give your home a traditional look.
- Craftsman window trim is a perfect trim for Craftsman style or Prairie style homes.
- Ranch window trim is traditionally used on Ranch style homes.
- Provincial window trim is used on country styled, or French provincial homes.
If you need new windows or trim for your home in Caldwell, NJ or the surrounding area, it's time to call RWC Windows, Doors & More at 973-435-4230 to see how we can help you make your home look great again.
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.
Tile and Flooring Trends That Will Make a Room Stand Out [Infographic]
How long has it been since you've made changes to your home flooring? According to Business Insider, you should replace a linoleum floor every 25 years; a vinyl floor every 50 years; carpet every 8 to 10 years. If you know it is time to make some changes and integrate new flooring in certain rooms or your entire home, you really do want flooring that will make a room stand out.
There is a multitude of new flooring options out there to pick from, and the most popular flooring tends to be that which injects a certain unique design element into a space. Take a look at a few of the current flooring trends that will make your room pop.
Colored Tile
Whether you are remodeling your kitchen, renovating your bathroom, or simply installing new flooring throughout the house, make sure you take the time to get familiar with some of the popular tile flooring trends, specifically colored tile. For a while, ceramic tile styles were a little mundane because most people were gravitating toward neutral or earthy tones. However, go pick out tile these days and you will find all kinds of impressive colors.
Colored tile can totally change the appearance of a room. For example, if you swap out a grey-toned ceramic tile for a bright red tile in your kitchen, your entire room takes on a new personality. You can go with solid-colored tiles or really get creative and use tiles in a collaboration of fun colors.
Uniquely Designed Tiles
Take a look at new flooring options 2018 and you will see something reminiscent of vintage times: uniquely designed tiles. Tiles that are imprinted with different imagery, have inlays of colorful gemstones or boast geometric indentions are all examples of what is out there. If you have a room that is fairly plain and mundane and you want to up the ante, installing uniquely designed tiles on the floor can really be a game changer.
Patterned Wood Flooring
When you think of wood flooring for your home, you probably envision the usual long slats pieced together in a shingled way. However, even wood flooring can be even more interesting than what it is in its traditional form. Skilled contractors can take wood flooring pieces and lay them out in all kinds of different ways. For example, they can:
- Install the flooring in a squared design to create an almost spiraled effect
- Install the flooring in small pieces to create a multitude of geometric patterns
- Install the flooring in varying widths and angles to create a more contemporary look
Patterned wood flooring is not actually a new idea; it has been used for a lot of years, but sparsely because it has historically been a lot harder to install. Parquet wood flooring is a good example of patterned wood flooring from the past. However, the availability of modern tools and equipment, as well as a greater access to wood materials has allowed the patterned flooring to be a more feasible option.
Takeaways to Remember
- Multicolored or colored tile can be just as effective as carpet or vinyl in creating a unique space
- Patterned wood flooring gives your home a unique style element
- Tile with intricate designs perfectly ups the designer appeal or an otherwise boring space
Installing the right flooring in a room is one of the easiest ways to make it look and feel completely different. Flooring is the platform that sets the stage for how the room is perceived, so it is absolutely important to watch flooring trends, do your research, and find what's best for your room. Reach out to us at RWC Windows, Doors & More for help finding the right flooring for your home.
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!