The RWC Guide to Replacing Your Windows [INFOGRAPHIC]
While your home may not be able to talk, it can say quite a bit without words. Your home’s windows are particularly expressive, and they’ll let you know when something’s not right. Although well-maintained, high quality windows can last up to 20 years or more, there are many factors that can reduce that. Are your windows drafty or fog up? Do they refuse to stay open, and balk when you try to open or close them? If your windows are more than a couple of decades old, listen carefully -- they’re telling you it’s time to replace them.
Step 1: Your Free In-Home Window Evaluation
Once you’ve decided it’s time to replace your windows and upgrade your home’s appearance with beautiful new windows, what’s next? It can be a confusing process without guidance. RWC Windows, Doors & More can help. Call us today for your free in-home window evaluation. Here’s how the process works:
- The owner of RWC will personally visit your home to consult with you and help you determine the best style and type of windows for your home’s style and your family’s needs.
- You’ll be provided with an overview of the process and given a thorough explanation of the window replacement cost and the installation method that will best suit your needs.
- Don't get stressed trying to figure out how to measure for replacement windows -- we’ll take accurate measurements of your windows to ensure a perfect fit and take photos of the windows you want replaced.
- Best of all, we don’t have high-pressure sales people; so you will never feel pressured at any point.
Step 2: Visit Our Showroom
After your in home evaluation, take a drive to our state of the art showroom in West Caldwell to see your options. During your visit, you’ll receive a personal window education. This will help you better understand all your window options! Next, you’ll select the best replacement windows to meet your family’s unique needs and express your home’s personality. Can’t choose between vinyl replacement windows, aluminum or wood? Compare available window products side-by-side. Once you’ve made your selection, we will sign contracts and order your windows and set up your installation date. Upon arrival at our facility, your windows are carefully inspected to ensure all parts are in working condition.
Step 3: Window Installation
Now that you’ve chosen your favorite new windows, the installation process starts. Rest assured it will go smoothly; we don’t use subcontractors -- your windows will be installed by one of our Certified Installation Technicians. RWC Premium Window Installation includes the following:
- We deliver your custom-made windows directly to your home
- We care about your home, so we protect your interior flooring with drop cloths
- Our experienced technicians will remove all your existing windows and storm windows and prepare the openings for your new energy efficient windows
- Your windows will be installed plumb, level and square into the prepared openings
- If needed, and gaps or voids between the window and master frame will be insulated
- We will encapsulate any exterior wood trim to provide you with a maintenance free application
- Your windows interior and exterior is sealed with a high-grade, non-drying caulk
- We leave your home spotless by removing all job-related debris and broom-sweeping your premises clean
Step 4: Tell your Friends!
We want you to be so happy with our installation service and new windows that you’ll become an official RWC Raving Fan for life! Tell all your friends and visit our Facebook, Google and Houzz pages to leave us a 5-Star reviews. Remember, when your windows tell you it’s time to say your goodbyes, work with a window installation professional who cares about your home and your satisfaction.
Call Us Today
If you’re looking for new windows for your West Caldwell, NJ or surrounding area home, contact RWC Windows, Doors & More or call us today for more information at 973-227-7123. RWC Windows, Doors and More is a family-owned and operated business. Since 1959, we have been a trusted remodeling service provider in New Jersey. We also specialize in kitchen and bathroom renovations and have completed many award-winning projects, making RWC your one-stop custom home remodeling provider.
The Top Bathroom Remodeling Myths: Debunked
Bathroom remodeling contractors understand that many of the myths around bathroom remodels simply aren't true. Myths around bathroom remodel cost, and reasons behind updating a bathroom discourage homeowners from making this beneficial change to their home.
Myth #1: A Bathroom Remodel Doesn't Increase the Value of Your Home
If you have heard that remodeling your bathroom isn't going to add any value, you have heard one of the top myths about a bathroom remodel out there. If you are trying to sell your home, one of the first things that will decrease the value of your home is an outdated bathroom. You may not get all of your money back from a bathroom remodel right away, but it becomes much easier to sell your home for the price you deserve with a new bathroom.
When you focus the bathroom remodel on changing out hardware, doors, and windows without making big structural changes, you can get the most for your money out of a newly remodeled bathroom. Your bathroom changes will be worth the money you spend.
Myth #2: Bathrooms Upgrades Are for Luxury
When you look for bathroom remodeling contractors, you might hear that bathroom changes don't offer you any additional functionality. Bathrooms are not just upgraded to make your bathroom more luxurious. A good bathroom upgrade can make your bathroom more comfortable, but can also help prevent damage to the room and make it easier to organize. With new shelving or cabinets, changes to lighting, and repairs made to old or leaking tubs and sinks, you are going to make changes to your bathroom that go far beyond luxury changes.
Myth #3: You Can't Save Money From Remodeling Your Bathroom
You would be surprised at how much a bathroom remodel can actually save you money on utility bills. You can make your home more earth-friendly and save yourself money over time. From the light fixtures to low flow toilets and showers, you will save money on your electric and water bills when you remodel your bathroom to be more energy efficient. Your bathroom uses roughly half the water in your home. Even a small leak is going to raise your water bill significantly. New faucets and low flow toilets will reduce water consumption in your home. One leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day if you ignore it.
Myth #4: Your Bathroom Gets Bigger After a Bathroom Remodel
While a bathroom remodel will make your space more organized and more efficient, your bathroom isn't going to be physically larger unless you start knocking down walls. Your bathroom might feel larger after a good design, but the space itself isn't going to be bigger. When you have less clutter in your bathroom and less wasted space, you will discover that your bathroom feels bigger without actually being bigger. Good lighting and the right mirror can help give your bathroom an open feel.
Myth #5: It's Too Expensive to Remodel a Bathroom
Bathroom remodeling contractors hear this myth frequently from homeowners. Remodel bathroom costs average between $9,600-$11,000, according to Angie's List. While a small bathroom with basic changes is going to cost you less money, a higher end bathroom remodel may cost more. However, costs depend on the structural changes made on the room, appliance choices, and the labor involved in the bathroom renovation. You can control costs by using the existing plumbing and choosing affordable toilets, sinks and cabinetry.
RWC Windows, Doors & More is your West Caldwell, NJ contractor ready to talk with you about the changes you want to make to your bathroom. Call us today at 973-227-7123 to set up an initial consultation for contracting services.
Purchasing a Fixer Upper: What You Need to Know
Purchasing a fixer upper has many advantages. Aside from the financial thrill of buying a home at a rock-bottom price, you get to remake the house to fit your personal taste and add the amenities that are important to your family. While a restoration project for a fixer upper may look like an expensive and time-consuming task, consider the cost of building a new home.
According to the National Association of Home Builders, the median cost to construct a new single-family home (sized at 2,467 square feet) was $289,415 in 2015. That's about $103 per square foot. But when you partner with the right remodeling contractor, and take an active part in selecting interior design materials, new appliances, attractive exterior doors and energy-efficient windows - your remodel will be a fun and rewarding experience.
Always Hire a Pro for Interior Fixer Upper Projects
If you're renovating a fixer upper to use as a primary residence, or intend to resell for a financial gain, the top fixer upper interior projects will be the kitchen, bathrooms, living room, and selecting paint colors for the interior and exterior of the home. Before starting your fixer upper renovation, how will you pay for your renovation?
Financing options for renovations are usually offered by reputable and licensed contractors which include credit cards, personal loan, and even obtaining a home equity loan or cash-out refinancing on the value of a second home. When a contractor is demanding cash-only, it could be a company that does sub-quality work. Other benefits to hiring experienced pros for your fixer upper projects include:
- professional connections with vendors who supply quality construction products
- experienced craftsmen skilled in multiple home improvement projects
- will offer a wide range of design ideas to fit homeowners budget and decor style
Hiring a Fixer Upper Contractor
As suggested by This Old House, the most profitable fixer uppers are those that require mostly cosmetic upgrades such as painting, updated bathrooms, and remodeling living areas. Some of these improvements may include drywall repairs, new floor finishes, updating the kitchen and bathroom and repainting walls. Before you tackle these project yourself, consider the following when hiring a contractor:
- view the contractor's project portfolio, customer testimonials, and BBB rating
- discuss the payment schedule ahead of time, and any options for financing
- beware of low-ball priced contractors which can be a sign of inferior work or materials
- make sure all details of the contract are in writing and fully understood
- view the contractors proof of liability insurance and worker's compensation documentation
Don't risk completing the home renovations on your own. The internet tells horror stories of DIY home remodeling gone wrong. Consequently, these mistakes have cost homeowners thousands of dollars and months of wasted energy. Especially in the event of a bathroom or kitchen remodel, hire a good contractor who will advise on the latest trends. Therefore, choosing a professional residential contractor who specializes in turning fixer uppers into comfortable, stylish, and high-quality interiors is the best choice.
Five Takeaways for Purchasing a Fixer Upper
- Take advantage of the contractor's connections to suppliers of high-quality architectural products at a reasonable price.
- Use the fixer upper opportunity to craft a home that fits your family's needs and style preferences
- Financing home improvements will bring a return on your investment with a higher home resale value.
- Always check the contractor's BBB rating, online reviews, and project portfolio for suitable experience.
- Fixer uppers with structural issues are more risky than those with interior and exterior cosmetic issues
RWC has been providing award-winning home remodeling to residents of New Jersey since 1959. Whether it's a bathroom or kitchen remodel, new door installations or window replacements, contact us to renovate your fixer upper.
The Best Ways to Invest Your Tax Return into Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]
You can probably think of many ways to quickly spend this year's tax refund, but to invest income tax refund money in a profitable way, consider putting your hard-earned cash back into your biggest investment - your home. You will profit in two ways when you choose the right home improvement projects. First, you will be adding to your home's appearance and resale value. Secondly, some improvements like window replacements and new doors will bring a financial return through energy savings. Here are practical ways to invest tax refund that will add to your home's curb appeal, energy efficiency, and value.
Save Energy With Quality Window Replacement
One of the best ways to invest tax refund money is by upgrading to high-quality windows. Better yet, upgrading to energy efficient windows for your home is an even better investment. According to Energy.gov, "Windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy..." Double-glazed replacement windows will reduce your utility bills. Replace moldy and drafty windows to make your home more comfortable in the winter, and cooler in the summer. Choose a reputable residential window and door replacement specialist that can also add specialty window coatings that reflect solar heat while passing full sunlight, to reduce radiant heating of your home.
Invest Income Tax Refund on a Kitchen Remodel
One of the best ways to invest your tax refund is with a kitchen remodeling project that will take your kitchen from drab to dynamic. Houzz.com looked at the current trends in kitchen remodeling and found the most desired projects include adding a kitchen island (61%), tiled backsplash for detailed decor (50%), stainless steel appliances over colors (65%), and hardwood floors over laminates (35%). For additional energy savings, replacing energy-hog appliances with Energy-Star ratings will save on utility costs.
Bathroom Remodel is a Great Investment
A modern bathroom is not just a luxury, but state-of-the-art fixtures provide water savings while adding convenience and beauty. If your family is increasing, or as your children age - so will their privacy needs. An updated bathroom or a bathroom addition can boost a home’s value by an average of $23,283, giving a 53.9% return on investment. Today's bathroom designs are sanctuaries of comfort and relaxation. Most of all, partner with a kitchen and bath remodeling service that can provide budget-friendly and stylish finishes. You can consider adding more space, more luxury, more efficiency, more style - or all of the above.
An Opportunity to Replace Your Front Door
When you consider how to invest tax return, you may not think about a door replacement. But according to Money.com, a 1/8-inch gap under a 36-inch-wide door will let in as much cold air as a 2.4-inch-diameter hole punched in the wall. That's a lot of chilly New Jersey wind blowing into your home, and reducing your family's level of comfort. Also, the value of an attractive, high-quality front door adds enormous curb appeal and distinction to your home. If you're considering putting your home on the market, a beautiful front door will make a lasting first impression on prospective buyers.
Adding energy efficient replacement windows and new exterior doors are two of the best ways to reduce the energy losses in your home. You will gain a return on these investments by way of reduced utility bills.
Investing for the Future
Don't make the mistake of allowing your tax refund to dwindle away without seeing any real gain. A new bathroom or a kitchen remodel not only adds functionality and increased capacity for a growing family, but will bring convenience to your entire family.
Request a quote for your next home remodeling project and get started with RWC Windows, Doors, and More today.
4 Tips to Sell Your Home Fast
Before you sell your house and start looking for a new home, take a hard look at your property. They say first impressions are everything. Is you curb appeal alluring to potential buyers? What about the inside, is your home staged to sell? If you’re looking for tips on how to stage your home for selling, curb appeal ideas and more, you’ve come to the right place. Even when the real estate market is favorable to sellers, home staging can help you get top dollar for your property. As you prepare to get your home ready for sale, a kitchen renovation or a bathroom remodel are two places to start. While you don't have to do a complete renovation, a remodeled bathroom and kitchen adds significant value to your property.
Kitchen Renovation to Sell Your Home
While you may not want to invest money into a home you are trying to sell, a kitchen renovation can give you up to a 70% return on your investment if you choose the right features and spend what is reasonable for your property. Homeowners looking to sell a property can expect to recoup an investment, as long as only 5-10% of the overall price of the home is spent. A kitchen renovation will give your home an updated look and create an appeal to potential home buyers that is hard to resist.
Home Staging is Important When Selling Your Home
Home staging is an art that involves removing clutter from your home and preparing it for sale. The concept behind home staging is to create an environment where potential home buyers can picture their own family living in your space. This means you will remove personal belongings and keep clutter to a minimum. If a room is painted a bright color, consider painting the room more neutral. As you stage your home, you will want to look for ways to make your home look less personal.
A Bathroom Remodel Increases the Value of Your Home
When you remodel your bathroom, you are going to increase the value of your home. It's important to pay attention to the fixtures and features you use to remodel, as you will want the remodel to match the rest of the home. For example, if your home is full of expensive hardwood floors and marble countertops, you should not go with the cheapest bathroom fixtures you can find. Talk with your contractor about possible changes you can make to the bathrooms in your home in order to get the most out of your investment.
Pay Attention to the Curb Appeal
While you stage the inside of your home, you also have to pay attention to the curb appeal. A well-kept yard makes a big difference when it comes to the first impression buyers will have of your home. Even if you don't have enough time to grow gardens, make sure the outside of your home is clean and neat. Remove all yard debris, sweep your walkway, and repair any railings going up to your front door. If your front door is old, replace it with something more appealing.
When you want to sell your home fast, it's important to:
- Consider how you can renovate the current kitchen to give it an updated look.
- Invest in professional home staging to make your home more appealing to buyers.
- Look for ways to remodel any bathrooms in the home.
- Clean up the exterior of your property to give your home better curb appeal.
At RWC Windows, Doors & More, we are ready to talk to you about the various ways you can prepare your home to sell fast. Call us at 973-227-7123 and we will be happy to discuss your renovation options.
How Do I Pay for Home Renovations? [INFOGRAPHIC]
Most homeowners always have a long wish list of various different projects they would love to undertake to improve their homes, including making renovations to the kitchen, bathroom, roof, building an addition, improving their HVAC system, and more. However, considering that most home renovations are quite expensive, money often comes in between many homeowner’s wishes and dreams. But the good news is that there are many ways to come up with the funds needed to finance home renovations.
Check out the ways to pay for home renovations:
Saving up and paying in cash
Paying for your home renovations in cash is arguably the easiest and best way to pay for home renovations. With cash, you won’t have to worry about payments or need to tie up your home’s equity with a loan. This is always the most financially sensible path to take, but it often limits the scope of home renovations that many homeowners can undertake. If you are short on cash, you can only undertake one small project at a time.
Home equity loans
A home equity loan is a great way to pay for home renovations if you don’t have the money to pay in cash. Home equity loans allow you take out a loan against the equity of your own house, and they generally offer low interest rates together with the ability to subtract those interest payments from your federal income taxes. However, you need to have a great credit score and at least 5% to 10% equity, or even 15% to 20%, to qualify for the loans. The biggest downside with home equity loans, however, is that because your home acts as the loan’s collateral, failure to make repayments can result in your home’s foreclosure.
Cash-out refinancing
This may be a good option for you if you have owned your home for several years, cleared its loan balance, and the home has increased in value. However, note that your monthly payments may go up even if your interest rate is lower because now you have a larger loan which includes the cash you take out for the renovation project. Additionally, you can opt for an FHA 203k loan which allows you to bind the costs of your renovations into your mortgage.
Taking a personal loan
If you don’t prefer putting your home up as collateral for a home equity loan, then taking a personal loan is a good option of financing for home renovations. Personal loans don’t offer the tax advantages that come with having a home equity loan or refinancing, but if you have a good credit and wouldn’t want to put your home up as collateral, it’s a good to consider. However, personal loans usually have higher interest rates than equity financing and mostly have a shorter repayment time frame.
Using Credit Cards
Credit cards can help you obtain funds for small renovations on your home, or for purchase of the materials required in the project. They allow you to make purchases when you don’t have cash up front, and you get rewarded with points by certain credit cards for every dollar spent. However, with this option you have to make sure that you can pay off your balances in full every month because the cards generally offer higher interest rates than many other types of financing.
Takeaways:
Some of the best ways to pay for your home renovations include:
- Paying with cash
- Cash-out refinancing
- Taking a home equity loan
- Taking a personal loan
- Using credit cards
- Considering an FHA 203K loan
These are just some of the many options available for home renovations financing that you can consider to make your dreams come true. When you’re ready to turn your dreams into reality and get started on remodeling your dream home today, consult the home remodeling experts at RWC Windows and Doors today!
Barn Doors For Homes: Here Are The Best Indoor Barn Door Ideas For You
Barn Doors For Homes
If you're thinking about installing barn doors for your home and you need ideas for indoor barn doors, then you need to read this. Sliding barn doors are slowly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the home interior design landscape, especially double sliding ones. They are no longer just exterior doors being used in the farm houses. Instead, they are one of the most sought-after interior décor features for any home type or style. Many individuals are considering incorporating barn door designs in their homes to create attention-grabbing entrances, save space in areas where traditional doors can’t be used practically, create attractive ways to divide rooms, or create classic ways to hide certain areas from view.
There are very many ways and places where you can incorporate barn doors within your home, and here are ideas on how to go about this unique interior décor trend:
Kitchen
Your kitchen is one of the best places to add a barn door to complement the space’s styling. Perhaps you are wondering how a barn door can really work in the kitchen, right? Well, for one, sliding barn doors can add some magic to your pantry’s entryway. The doors can not only help you hide away your kitchen’s extras without compromising on its space, but also create an attractive entryway when painted with a popping color.
You may also opt to have a chalkboard as the top cover of your barn doors and write your dinner menu here, keep a grocery list, or write down recipes. Still in the kitchen, you can use sliding barn doors to close some cabinets. With all those different applications, barn doors must be considered if you’re interested in remodeling your kitchen.
Living room
Sliding barn doors also find great use in the living room, though not particularly in their traditional style. With an open floor plan, it is not quite easy to use barn doors in their traditional form. Instead, the best way to go about them is having smaller, unique sets that can be applied to different areas. Some of these areas include book shelving, the television space when not in use, and even as a substitution for curtains in some windows. Small and uniquely styled barn doors can work wonders to your home’s living space décor, provided that you get the right style to match or complement the whole space.
Bedroom
Consider adding some sliding barn doors to complement your bedroom’s texture and feel. You can use them to divide your bedroom and master bath or as covers for your closets. With the bedroom, you can opt for the simple and rustic feel for your barn doors to remain the same, or decide to go all the way and find a paint color that makes the entryway really pop out, say a warm red if your walls are grey. You can also consider a color that simply complements the other colors in the bedroom.
Dining room
If you desire to have your dining room enclosed from the rest of the living space, consider using some classic, double-styled barn doors to bring some elegance to this more formal area of your home. Again, it is up to you to decide whether to keep the natural wood as it is to bring some farmhouse elegance to the room, or to change the colors to compliment the rest of the space’s décor. Search around for designs and pictures that may guide you in finding a perfect style for your home.
Home office
Sliding barn doors are a great way to keep your office space cut off from the rest of the house in style. They offer you privacy, give you an extraordinary styled working station, and add up as a piece of décor for your office walls. Adding small sliding barn doors to cover your book shelves and cabinets can also be an exceptional addition to this space.
Barn Door :
- Sliding barn doors are great in the kitchen, living room, home office, dining room, and the bedroom among more.
- They help save on space, enhance interior décor, create classic entryways, and divide rooms in style.
- Always consider professionals to install barn doors for you.
These are just some of the many ways and areas where sliding interior barn doors for homes can work for a cost of $300-$2000 or more. If you would like to find how well barn doors can specifically integrate into your home, consider consulting the professionals at RWC Windows and Doors New Jersey for barn door ideas, advice, design, and reliable installation services.
How to Turn Your First Home into Your Forever Home
In most cases, many people consider their first homes as starter homes that they would wish to upgrade from and move into bigger or better houses in a few years, say 2 or 5 years. However, moving into a bigger and cozier house is not always the true definition of getting a dream/forever home. If you love your first home and it is possible to remodel it into a dream home, why not try it?
It is definitely easier and cheaper to make your first home a place that you would like to live in for the rest of your life. All you need is make some necessary renovations in key areas of your house such as the kitchen and bathroom to accommodate the growing needs of your family. You also need to consider adding necessary room additions that will make the starter home fit the criteria of your dream home.
Here is how you can remodel your home to fit your family’s growing needs while at same time making it a dream home:
Kitchen remodeling
Many first home buyers know that this is one of the most critical and valuable spaces in a house. It is also one of the areas where most focus on home renovations is directed. To make your kitchen fit the growing needs of your family as well as fit into your dream home’s plan, consider revamping its appearance, functionality, and storage capabilities. Opt for a timeless, classic style that will not easily go out fashion for the next 30 or 40 years.
Consider having an open kitchen with a functional, larger island kitchen that provides adequate space for all your family members to sit and have breakfast. Add a second sink, plenty of cabinets with accessories such as drawers and spice racks to increase your storage space, a dishwasher, additional space for a larger refrigerator, and more. You can get a lot out of your kitchen space with a good remodeling design.
Bathroom remodeling
Bathrooms are another key area of interest during first home buying. However, while having many baths in a home is essential, a constrained budget doesn’t always offer that luxury when buying your first home. It is up to you to upgrade and add more baths to your house if your family grows and you wish to make the house your forever home.
For a family of more than 5, having around 3 bathrooms is essential to avoid inconveniencing each other during bath times. Consider adding an extra bathroom if you consider the current one is inadequate. For the existing ones, consider undertaking bathroom renovations that help accommodate your growing family needs such as additional faucets, sinks, storage cabinets, and more. Also consider installing a privacy glass shower stall so that the bathroom can be used by two individuals at the same time.
Creating additions
With a growing family, it is inevitable to have extra living space requirements. Moving is a common option, but making renovations to your current home is also a great idea to consider. You can easily renovate your basement and transform it into extra living space for your family and kids. You can also create extra space in your roof’s attic to create extra space that can be used as a playroom, office or guest room.
Don’t forget about the outdoor spaces too. Transform your porch into livable space, or build a deck or patio, in your backyard to add much needed living space.
Takeaways:
Here are the key places to focus on when turning your first home into your forever home:
- Revamp the kitchen
- Create additional baths
- Renovate current baths
- Get additional living and bedroom space through a basement or attic remodel
- Consult a professional to guide you through
There are countless ways to turn your first home into a dream/forever home. With the right professional advice and renovation services from experts such as RWC Windows and Doors New Jersey, you can easily renovate your first home to become a dream home. Contact them today!
Comparing Window Framing Materials: Vinyl, Aluminum, Wood and Fiberglass
When deciding to install new windows in your home, style and appearance are important, but knowing which window glass types are best for your climate is another factor to consider. Sunlight, humidity, freezing rain, extreme cold, and endless rainy seasons can all affect the performance and longevity of the window framing material. Additionally, some glass window types will resist heat flow better and make your home more energy efficient.
According to the experts at This Old House, good window frame designs are those with heat welded joints rather than mechanical fasteners. Screwed joints leave the possibility of separation and future leaking. All glass window types have benefits and drawbacks. Speak with a professional window supply and installation service to make sure you make the best decision for your home. Learn more about the types of window frames for houses below!
Vinyl Windows Offer Great Value
Vinyl windows are an inexpensive choice and are suitable for most climates. It's the best window frame material for keeping heat in for lower energy bills and the scratch-resistant material does not require painting. Vinyl windows are available in a wide choice of factory colors and many sizes.
According to Energy.gov, choose a vinyl window with insulation for improved thermal properties. Extremely hot climates may discolor the vinyl window material and generally do not add much resale value to your home when compared with other window frame options.
Maintenance-Free Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are sleek and modern, and they are also an economical choice for window material. Aluminum windows are strong which means they will last for decades, yet they are very lightweight and attractive. Most manufacturers will apply a powder coating or anodized finish to resist fading and scratching.
Aluminum framed windows are weatherproof and will not corrode. In colder climates, aluminum framing materials are at a disadvantage because they are not energy efficient which also leads to problems with frost or condensation forming inside. A double pane window with conductive insulation will improve the windows thermal properties.
The Strength of Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows have very good thermal properties and are a low maintenance choice for homeowners. These frames can be painted in a wide variety of colors and the material's excellent stability means a wide range of window styles and custom frames will use fiberglass as the material of choice.
A fiberglass and vinyl windows comparison shows that fiberglass has less chance of warping and is a stronger material. They are an eco-friendly option composed of glass fibers making them recyclable. One of the disadvantages of fiberglass windows is that you’ll pay more for them, but they have do more availability in a wide range of unique colors.
The Beauty of Wood Framed Windows
It is hard to deny the beauty of a home with wood-framed windows, yet this exceptional appearance comes at a price. You will certainly pay more for wood, and these frames will eventually acquire mold, mildew, or rot due to alternating weather conditions. Wood window frames will require periodic cleaning, caulking, sanding, and staining to maintain a quality appearance. Still, wood framed windows are a positive factor for a home property value. Also expect exceptional thermal properties, as wood resists the transfer of heat and cold.
Key Takeaways to Remember
- For most applications where budget is a factor, vinyl windows are an excellent choice
- The longest-lasting modern window frames with low maintenance are fiberglass and aluminum
- If you plan to change window frame paint periodically, vinyl cannot be repainted - where fiberglass can
- Aluminum window frames have a modern appeal and are good choices for contemporary house designs
- Consider the humidity and rain amounts in your area if you are considering wood framed windows
RWC Windows, Doors & More has been a trusted remodeling service provider in the New Jersey area since 1959. We are a family-owned and operated business with award-winning projects completed across the state. Contact us for your next home remodeling project or to learn about the window materials mentioned above. We also specialize in kitchen and bathroom renovations, making RWC a one-stop provider of custom home remodeling.
Do You Know How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Home?
Home renovations are always key investments that not only make your home better and more comfortable to live in, but also increase its resale value. However, if you settle on the wrong home remodeling contractor for your home, your project’s failure and excessive re-work costs down the road are imminent. So, how can you choose the right contractor for your renovations?
Start by planning your project
Before proceeding to search for a contractor, it is imperative that you start by planning the requirements of your project keenly. A contractor will most often deliver what a client requests, unless the client asks for suggestions from the contractor. Make a detailed plan of your project and visualize what you would like to see as the end results of your home renovations. This way, you can easily explain to potential contractors what you want in a clear manner, making it easy for them to be on the same page as you.
Ask for referrals
This is still one of the best ways to find the right contractor for your home renovations. Ask your close friends, neighbors, relatives, real-estate agent, homebuilder’s association or colleagues at work for names of good contractors they have worked with before. Getting a referral by a trusted source improves your chances of meeting the right contractor for your project ten-fold. However, make sure that you are specific of the type of contractor you need, and that the contractor referred to you has expertise in the specific type of project you want handled.
Narrow down your list of potential contractors and conduct interviews
Once you get referrals to several reliable contractors, proceed to check their websites and online reviews to help you narrow down your list to at least 3 potential candidates. Call these three candidates or meet them in person for a detailed interview to see who fits your project better. Take this time to have the contractor’s explain how they plan on meeting schedules and budgets from the project’s inception to the end. This is also when you ask any burning questions you may have about the project.
Carry out some further research on your potential contractors by:
Consulting their past clients. Request the contractor to connect you with several of their past clients to find out their experience. If you cannot connect with previous clients, look for reviews on Facebook, Houzz and Google.
Scope out out their previous projects. The contractor should be able to provide you with a list of their past projects so that you can see their workmanship. Check out projects on Houzz and ask to see their portfolio of work. This way, it is easy to tell between a poorly and a professionally completed project.
Is the contractor certified and licensed? Check whether the contractor has the required licenses and certification to work in your area. You can confirm with your local building authority on what is required of your renovation contractor. You can also check if they belong to the National Association of The Remodeling Industry or the National Association of Home Builders.
Check if the contractor is insured. The contractor should have liability insurance to cover for damages on your property as a result of his work (such as accidental flooding), as well as a worker’s compensation plan in case any of their workers is injured on-site.
Get everything in writing
After settling on the right contractor for your project, retain a copy of the contract. The contract should enlist key details about project schedules, payment plans, and consequences of contract breach. Read the contract carefully and make sure you understand it well.
Takeaways:
Steps to help you choose the right contractor include:
- Planning for the project
- Asking for contractor referrals
- Interviewing contractors
- Carrying out background checks on the contractors
- Signing a contract
Now that you've got these tips to find the right contractor for your home renovation, what are you waiting for? RWC Windows and Doors are professional home remodeling contractors with all the required licensing, insurance, and proven track record of successful projects. Find out more about their services today!