Window Trends to Look For in 2020
Just like general housing styles of building such as color, cabinetry, and floor preferences, window treatment trends can come and go often and fast. Of course the best window treatment trends maintain a timeless fashion statement, but some are more popular during certain years and tend to be used more often. The purpose of the window treatment and especially curtain trends 2020 is of a practical nature. Windows allow light in during the day, allow fresh air in the home when the weather is nice enough to open the window, but the blinds or curtains provide cover and privacy. Once such a purpose is achieved, there are plenty of ways to customize the treatments to compliment the rest of the home. Here are the latest 2020 window design trends!
Shutters, Blinds, and Curtains
Shutters and blinds have always been a timeless window treatment choice, and work well alone or in conjunction with curtains. Shutters and blinds open and close partially by allowing the sashes to fold together or be angled. Shutters open by folding together and swinging open, blinds stack together and raise up. Both are popular in wood or bamboo, providing a natural look to the window. Curtains are coming out of the neutral tone recent fad and is seeing the return of bold and bright colors. Curtains can of course be closed, but are typically left open while adjusting the blinds for light or privacy.
Pet and Child Friendly Window Coverings
Traditional blinds and certain types of curtains used long hanging strings to maneuver when opening or closing the system. Unfortunately, those strings could be rather enticing for a cat to play with, a dog to eat, or a child to get tangled up in. It seems the window design trends 2020 are opting for a simpler approach. People with children or pets have an obvious need for treatments without strings, people without, seem to like the trend also because the strings can look messy.
Technology Trends
Just because strings are out of popularity with replacement window trends, there are other options than having to personally adjust the open or closed status of window treatments. Mechanical systems can be motorized, and in turn run with a remote control or Smartphone. Using Smartphone technology adds the benefit of allowing you to close the blinds while away from home to keep prying eyes away, but you can have them open and inviting upon your return. A remote control isn't as versatile, but does allow you to open and close the window treatment without having to walk around the house to manually prepare them every morning and evening.
Takeaways
- Shutter or blinds work well by themselves or in conjunction with fabric curtains.
- Curtains can be sheer or solid, and although neutral colors always look nice there's no reason to be scared of incorporating bright colors into the room.
- Consider the needs of children and pets when determining what treatments will best suit your home.
- You can incorporate technology at whatever level you're comfortable with to make the window treatments easier to use and more likely to be opened and shut at your whim with minimal effort.
Window Installers in NJ
To discuss replacement window trends and stylish window treatments, give us a call at RWC Windows, Doors, and More or swing by our showroom. A representative will be happy to discuss what we can do for your bathroom windows, kitchen windows, or any other room to suit your goals of making your house look great while becoming more efficient. You’ll find each of our representatives to be professional, courteous, and knowledgeable with new window designs to meet your needs and preferences.
Window Replacement Options: Energy Efficient Windows for Older Homes
Although older houses can be quite charming, they often need renovations to meet modern expectations for function and efficiency. It doesn't take much thought to replace appliances with new ones of a style you like, and you probably have an idea of what modern bathroom renovations the house needs, but replacement windows for old homes can be a more difficult decision. Fortunately, there are plenty of window replacement ideas and options available so you don't have to choose between either the most energy efficient replacement windows or windows that look great in the context of how well they suit the home.
Window Replacement Options
Energy saving replacement windows come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. They can be custom fit for older homes that may not have what is considered modular sizes by today's construction contractors. Styles include the most common double hung window, which can have either a center rail or three quarters split in order to meet the cosmetic intention of the house's original design. Although vinyl is the most common material, wood sashes are available and might be a better choice for some houses as they can appear more in line with how the original windows were built while providing the insulation needed for heating and cooling efficiency. Other types of windows are available as well, such as emergency egress windows as local code might require, block windows which allow natural light in while blocking vision can be great for a bathroom, or windows that crank open on hinges rather than lifting were common in certain types of older homes and might maintain the style of your house.
Interior Storm Windows
If you just can't part with the old windows because they continue to look great and function properly, another option to consider is adding an interior storm window to raise the window's efficiency without disrupting the exterior view of an older home. These windows are custom-built to fit your existing windows and are hardly noticeable once installed. They include several layers of heat reflecting glazing to raise the R-value of the window by keeping heat outside in the summer or inside during the winter months. They aren't going to be as efficient as a triple pane replacement window filled with argon gas, but they maintain the appeal of the older windows while lowering your monthly heating and cooling expenses.
Choosing New Windows
There is further consideration needed when choosing the best replacement windows beyond the look you want to maintain and the efficiency you hope to achieve. Windows can be relatively inexpensive, or they can cost as much as you're willing to spend. Although price is always something a homeowner has to be aware of, the cost to replace windows in old house shouldn't be the only basis for the final decision. There are two perspectives toward window cost. One, if it's an investment home you're flipping, or a house you plan to live in for a few years before moving, the amount you spend on the windows will repay itself in the home's resale value and curb appeal when the house goes on the market. On the other hand, if you plan to live the rest of your life in the home you want the windows you'll never have to replace again because you didn't cut corners the first time.
Takeaway Points
- Consider what options are available when it comes time to replace windows.
- Think about whether you have to replace the windows or can upgrade them with interior storm windows.
- Take the time to choose the windows you're going to be happy with, even if it winds up costing a little more than you had hoped.
- Replacing windows in an old house is a specialty of RWC. We’ll help you discover ideas for the right window design for your home!
Conclusion
If you're ready to update your windows and want to know more about energy efficient window replacement, give us a call at RWC Windows, Doors, and More. We'll be happy to swing by at your convenience to discuss your home window replacement options and handle all installation of your energy efficient replacements!
A Contractor’s Guide to Custom Windows
Custom windows and doors can make your house look elegant and inviting. If your home needs new windows and you are less than thrilled with your choices when it comes to prefabricated windows, custom house windows should be considered. You'll have choices when it comes to the materials used to build your windows, and you will get exactly what you want with your custom windows installation.
Pricing Your Custom Windows
How expensive your custom windows are will depend on the materials you choose and whether you use single, double or triple pane windows. The most traditional window materials are wood, aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass, with wood being the most expensive material you can choose. Talk to your custom windows company about the different components of your windows and what design will work best for your home.
Glass Makes a Difference In Price
When you are considering energy efficient windows, the more panes your windows are, the more insulation there is. The type of glass used is also important, as high performance glass we be more expensive. In general, the more money you spend on your window glass, the more energy efficient your windows will be. You'll save money on energy costs over time, that make up for the additional cost.
Choosing Materials that are Right For Your Home
While wood windows can look amazing, they are expensive and require consistent maintenance. Wood windows will swell and shrink depending on the humidity, and can become warped over time. Wood windows will look great for a short period, but vinyl windows are a better alternative when you are looking for custom house windows that don't require a ton of maintenance.
Installation Costs and Construction Work
The cost of installation will have a direct impact on how expensive it is to have a custom windows installation on your home. If the home needs to be renovated to make room for the new windows, you'll spend more money on the installation. If repairs are necessary on the existing window casings, this is factored in to your costs for custom house windows.
Choosing the Elements of Your New Windows
Once you choose your material, such as wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminum, you will then need to decide what grade of glass you want to use. For larger windows, it is recommended to use at least two pane glass to keep your home properly insulated. One pane windows are only recommended for small windows where insulation isn't much of a factor. Talk to your custom windows company about the different elements of your new windows to come up with a final product for your home.
Custom house windows can look great on your home and give you exactly what you want to improve your home. When you go with custom house windows, some advantages are:
- You aren't stuck with prefabricated windows that leave you with minimal design options.
- Choosing exactly what you want for your custom windows
- Budget friendly options are available when it comes to materials
- Energy efficient windows can help you save money on utility costs
Custom windows can give you a great looking home. RWC Windows, Doors & More has been serving homeowners in West Caldwell, NJ and the surrounding area for more than 25 years. To learn more about custom window installation and your home renovation options, it's time to give us a call today to set up an initial consultation at 973-227-7123.
Window Cleaning Tips
When you consider all the ways your windows can collect grime and dirt, you may realize that even windows that may look fairly clean - are not! Dirty or damaged commercial or residential windows stick out like a sore thumb. The collection of environmental, airborne pollution on exterior surfaces and the accumulation of grease, dust, and fingerprints inside will require window cleaning techniques that will deep clean glass surfaces. According to the EPA, your home furnishings that are manufactured with man-made materials are a source of poor indoor air quality and can also leave an invisible film or oily fog on windows.
Tips on Window Cleaning
Good window cleaning removes built up grime without leaving dirt or water streaks. The best window cleaner is made at home using 50% white vinegar and 50% tap water. Mix this solution in a spray bottle and add just a 1/2 teaspoon of dish detergent like Dawn. The acid in vinegar will cut through the greasy, filmy residue while the soap will collect the dirt to be washed away.
If you don't have vinegar handy, some good substitute combinations with include distilled water and Vodka, cornstarch and ammonia, warm water and lemon juice, or dish soap and rubbing alcohol. You can find the recipes here.
Cleaning the Outside of Your Windows
Most double hung window sashes will tilt in for easy exterior cleaning. If your windows are single pane windows or sliding windows, a soft bristle brush on an extension pole (or a microfiber cloth wrapper around a Swiffer mop) can be used to reach upper window sections.
For second level windows, you don't really need a ladder if you have a garden hose. Purchase a spray bottle that can be attached to a hose (similar to the liquid fertilizer bottles). Add your solution and begin spraying upper level windows with a strong force of cleaning solution. Follow by using the water hose to rinse windows with clear water, before the solution dries completely.
Interior Window Washing Tips and Tricks
When cleaning interior windows you may want to lay a large bath towel on the floor for protection. Begin your project by cleaning the window tracks where dirt and mud can accumulate. Clean window tracks with a butter knife wrapped in a microfiber cleaning cloth and dipped in a baking soda and vinegar solution will speed up the process.
Spray windows and allow the solution to sit for a minute. You can use a sponge, microfiber cloth, or newspaper to wipe the windows from the top to the bottom. Use a separate cloth for a final, streak-free wipe down.
Your grandparents may have used newspaper to wipe clean interior windows. This is still an excellent way to get smear-free windows, as long as the newspaper ink is not petroleum based which causes the ink to transfer and smear. Not to worry, 90% of all newspapers use the cheaper, soy-based ink which does not smear.
Use the bristles of a small brush (like a toothbrush) to get into joints and hardware to remove built up grime. This also a useful tool for cleaning the lower portion of your window screen.
Frame and Window Sill Cleaning Tips
The last steps in cleaning the interior windows is to clean the frame and window sill which will have gathered much of the dirt you've washed away from the glass pane.
You may want to scrub your metal window frame with a toothbrush and your window cleaning solution. If window frames are really grimy, sprinkle baking soda on the frames first (getting into the grooves and corners). Follow that by spraying with your vinegar and water solution, then scrubbing with a toothbrush. Wipe your window frames clean and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Finally, wipe down your window trim and sills with clean soapy water, followed by wiping with a damp cloth, then drying with a clean cloth. Avoid allowing the water to sit on the wooden sills for too long.
Take-Aways
- A 50-50 solution of white vinegar and water will leave your windows clean and streak-free
- When cleaning windows, also clean the window tracks, frame, and window sill
- Allow cleaning solution to sit a minute - but do not allow to dry
If your window frames are rusty or damaged and your windows panes discolored or show signs of mold growth, consider replacement windows installed by RWC Windows, Doors, and More. RWC also provides bathroom and kitchen remodeling, along with door installation and window replacement to homeowners in northern New Jersey.
4 Signs It Might Be Time To Change Your Windows
Windows are one of the most functional and aesthetic features of a home. In general terms, windows should last between 15 and 30 years before you need replacements, but this is just a general rule of thumb since some windows can last far longer. Here are four signs it might be time for new windows for your home.
1. Your Windows Are Not In Good Condition
There's nothing good about warped, broken, or damaged windows. Unfortunately, these kinds of issues are common in older homes and when windows have been kept in use beyond how long they really should be. If you see gaps around window frames due to warping, have mold buildup between sealed glass panes, or have windows that won't even open and close, it is a good indication you need replacements.
2. Your Windows Are Not As Efficient As They Should Be
According to Energy.gov, bad windows can account for 10 to 25 percent of heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. These kinds of numbers can drastically affect how much you are paying to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. While you may not be able to tell by looking that your windows are to blame for higher-than-typical energy bills, you can spot inefficient windows by looking at:
- The energy rating of the window
- Whether you feel drafts around the window in the winter
- How much heat you feel on your skin when standing in front of a window in the summer
3. The Windows Compromise the Value of the Home
When buyers are viewing a home for sale, one of the first things they will want to look at is the windows. Poor-quality windows make a home inefficient and not as good-looking as it should be. Much of the cost of replacement windows can be recouped when you sell the house, so prior to selling is the best time to replace windows. New windows installation cost is offset by what you garner when you do sell.
4. Accumulation of Moisture Is an Ongoing Window Problem
You have pesky moss or mildew growing between glass panes, condensation will not go away, and your windows frost inside during the winter. These kinds of issues are relative to older windows that are not designed to thwart heat and cold transfer. Over time, these problems can easily lead to moisture damage, so replacing windows that have these issues is a good idea.
Takeaways to Remember That Tell You to Get New Windows
- Moisture problems in and around windows are not a good sign
- Windows can lower the value of your home before listing it for sale
- Older windows commonly need their windows replaced
- Damaged windows can generate a lot of problems and should be replaced
- Energy-efficiency is greatly affected by bad windows or old windows in bad shape
Overall, window replacement is one of the best investments you can make in your home’s efficiency, and beauty. Use these signs to help you determine if it is time to make a change. Reach out to us at RWC Windows, Doors & More if you suspect it is time to get your windows replaced and you want to find the best options.
Window Trends During The Last 60 Years [Infographic]
Just like everything else in life, windows have trends. While it may have never crossed your mind, windows have seen quite an interesting evolution over the past few decades. As consumers' needs change and evolve, so, too, do the aesthetics they apply to their homes. Windows, after all, are both beautifying elements and utilitarian applications. Since they serve dual purposes, it only makes sense that window design types have changed faces as the years have gone by.
With this in mind, let's explore the last 60 years of window treatment trends!
- 1960s: Jalousie Jealousy. In the 1960s, "keeping up with the Jones's" meant keeping multiple panes of glass built into a single window structure. These windows offered more glass and less framework, which prevented blocked views so people could easily see outside their homes. They also provided optimal ventilation in homes that weren't yet equipped with central air conditioning, allowing air to flow freely between the slats and into houses. Because of the way they open, they enabled people to enjoy fresh air, even when a torrential downpour was occurring outside. Jalousies weren't the most secure window options, and they started to be phased out once central A/C began to popularize because they weren't the most energy-efficient option.
- 1970s: Built for Big Window Ideas. In the 1970s, houses were designed around the windows, not the other way around. Just look at the front of the Brady Bunch house—there's one main window on the left and another big window on the right. From the outside, they may not seem that massive, but they provided all the natural light the front of that home received, and spatially, they actually take up quite a bit of the exterior. The '70s also introduced skylights and elevated gardens, which, in retrospect, worked in perfect harmony with each other.
- 1980s: It Was What Was Inside That Mattered. The trend in the '80s didn't have so much to do with what was on the outside; the focus was on the interior, with homeowners often decorating their houses with floor-to-ceiling drapes. The focus had shifted from window designs for home exteriors to interiors, and big, heavy window dressings were all the rage.
- 1990s: Shapes and Silhouettes. The '90s invited windows with shapes and geometric configurations. Frankly, they weren't easy to install, nor were they easy to find proper window coverings for. Perhaps that's why people sought them out—for a bit of esteemed status from onlookers, whether they were inside or out. Half-moon shapes and arches donned the aesthetics of homes built in this era.
- 2000s: Getting Efficient. With the new millennium well in play, homeowners began to opt for energy-efficient windows that would save them money while still looking stunning. However, the focus was no longer so much on style as function. People began to look harder at the types of frames their windows could have, the type of glass that would save them the most money, and above all—how these factors would work together to last for a very long time without need for maintenance or repair in the foreseeable future.
Window Trends 2019
This year, we're looking at big window ideas once again, but we're doing them differently than folks did in the '70s. Nowadays, the focus is on energy efficiency, unobstructed views, and minimal frames. As technology and design improve each year, RWC Windows, Doors & More is able to offer our customers outstanding windows that can literally cover the entire face of a home without losing efficiency. Today's windows are large and in charge, offering unabashedly modern shapes, clean lines, and full views to the outside world.
RWC Windows, Doors & More offers window treatments New Jersey homeowners love and trust. If you're ready to beautify your home and experience greater energy efficiency, we're ready to help you get there! Touch base with our team so we can get started!
Do’s and Don’ts of Window Treatments
Modern kitchen window treatments can make a small living space look great. Window treatment are the finishing touches to any room, and give you the ability to decorate your home in unique ways. Whether you are searching for window treatment ideas for your living room, or you are wondering what are window treatments, it's time to learn about the do's and don'ts of window treatments.
Do Window Treatments Have to Match?
While your window treatments don't need to be a perfect match to your sofa, they should complement the decor in the room. When you are treating more than one window, each one should be similar to avoid a disorganized look. Even if they don't match perfectly with one another, the colors and techniques used should be similar.
Use a Layered Look
Layering your window treatments means using a combination of shades, blinds, curtains and drapes to create a layered look. Modern kitchen window treatments go beyond a traditional valance above your kitchen windows. Think about the amount of light you want to let in, as well as any breeze that you want to feel. Layers give you the ability to shut shades completely, or use the sheer curtains for privacy without blocking the light
Don't Treat Only the Window Area
You might be tempted to hang the curtains directly over the window and be done. This is a basic window treatment and won't give you the look you want. Go high and wide when it comes to hanging curtains, and don't stop at the edge of the window sill. Your window treatments should make your window appear larger than it is and not box in the window with minimal length curtains.
Try Something New
If your entire house has the same blind/curtain combination, it's time to branch out into something new. When you aren't sure about window designs, talk to a professional about window treatments for your home. You may discover that you love vertical blinds, or that you can't live without your roman shades. Don't be afraid to try something new, as you can always change it if you need to.
Don't Go Overboard
While you may want to try layering your window treatments, pay attention to excessive designs and patterns. When you are trying a new idea, you may be tempted to do too much. Window treatments can have one or two strong elements, and the rest should be neutral. Look for complementary colors and avoid using bold, bright colors in more than one piece of the treatment.
Look for Ease of Use
Your modern kitchen window treatments should be easy to use. If you are going to go with a new type of blind for your kitchen, it should open and close easily to allow for light to come in. Window treatments should do more than decorate your home. Window treatments should help with light control, air flow and temperature if possible. Good window treatments should be functional as well as decorative.
When using window treatments:
- Don't be afraid to try something new.
- Go for a layered look.
- Avoid too many patterns or bright colors.
- Consider the functionality of your treatment.
At RWC Windows, Doors, Kitchens and Baths, we are ready to talk to you about all of your design needs in your home. To learn more about what we have to offer, contact us today at 973-435-4230. We will be happy to talk about design ideas and discuss the elements of your home that you can update now. We offer a full range of windows and doors to keep your home looking great.
Window Safety Tips: National Window Safety Week
Every year in April, the arrival of spring is highlighted by the annual recognition of window safety. The window’s role is often overlooked, but it is an essential part of the home, keeping inhabitants comfortable and safe. National Window Safety Week 2019, hosted by the National Safety Council, spreads the message to homeowners that windows are not only an aesthetic feature -- they play important roles providing for your family's health, safety, and security.
Windows do many things, including:
- Allow natural light to support mental and physical health
- Can save lives as an escape route during a fire or other emergency
- Prevent fall-related injuries, especially for children on upper levels
- Provide a view to your natural surroundings and activity on your property
Here we will discuss a number of solutions to increase the safety that your windows provide. Some of these products can be easily installed on the interior of your windows. Others are a more permanent solution for the exterior side, when the environment demands greater protection from vandalism, break-in, or harsh weather.
Glass Block Adds Privacy and Security
Glass block windows are double-paned windows popular for basements, bathrooms, door sidelights, and some ground-level areas of the home. You will benefit from the increased privacy and extra layer of security that glass block offers. Also, expect more energy efficiency from these windows! They reduce heat loss, because the glass construction surrounds a core of insulating airspace.
Choose a glass block that is the thickness of the surrounding walls (between 6" to 12") for a flush installation. You will enjoy selecting a glass block style to suit your home's decor from:
- Transparency for full clarity
- Opaque for increased privacy
- Surface textured - wavy or diamond
Install Window Safety Locks
While most all windows are installed with a locking feature, you can increase your home's security by installing additional security hardware on the interior side of your windows. Often referred to as 'aftermarket window locks', these products are easily installed by the homeowner to add another level of security against intrusion.
A simple window pin lock installed on a double hung window requires only one drilled hole and costs less than $10. Consider installing a window sash lock, which can be keyed for a child-proof solution on sliding windows or double hung-windows. Hinged, interior window safety guards can be bolted onto the frame of a window, but allow for easy exit in case of fire or when cleaning windows.
Consider Tempered or Laminated Glass Windows
If window safety in a rec room, children's room, stairwell, or a bathroom is a concern, consider a home window installation that features tempered glass. Tempered glass is hardened during the manufacturing process, making it extra strong. When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into small, and mostly harmless, pieces. You will not have the risk of serious injury that regular shards of glass will present.
Another option is to replace residential windows with impact-resistant laminated glass. This glass is manufactured with layers of two or more plies of glass sandwiched between a vinyl-layered material. When laminated glass breaks, the glass will remain together instead of spraying into the air. You can also expect better sound reduction and UV-light blockage with laminated glass windows.
Exterior Window Safety Bars
When homeowners decide they need an optimum level of safety and security from their windows, exterior window security bars (or burglar bars) can be an excellent theft deterrent while increasing the safety of the home's occupants. Safety bars also allow you to have your windows open without the risk of children or the elderly falling or climbing out of the open window.
Make sure your home is fully equipped with fire safety measures, because older style safety bars will cut off this means of exiting the home during a fire. Choose to install modern window bars that incorporate a quick release mechanism to quickly open the bars from the inside of the home.
Take-Aways
- Glass block windows are trending as an accent feature on modern homes.
- Windows near a shower or bathtub should have tempered or laminated glass.
- You can increase your window security with window locks and bar options
Visit RWC in New Jersey to discover the many ways you can treat your home and your family to new windows that have safety features built-in, and continue reading to discover many more tips that will increase the security of your family during the National Window Safety Week.
*Note: This is an updated version of a blog published April 5, 2018. Read the original post below!*
When you are concerned about the security of your home, it's time to consider how window safety guards and safety glass windows can help you. If you are concerned about keeping out intruders or providing safety for your children with safety windows, there are steps you can take to protect your home and family. From accidents to unwanted guests, you can make changes to your property to make it safer.
Keep your family safe with the following window safety tips:
- Keep the areas right in front of your window free from furniture or other objects children can climb on. This gives small children the ability to climb up to an open window and push on the screen.
- Window screens keep out bugs, but aren't made to hold any weight. Don't lean on screens in your home and don't allow children to push against a window screen.
- When you like to have your windows open, invest in window safety guards. The guards don't allow the window to be opened wide enough for a child to fall out or for an intruder to climb in. Learn how to disengage the window safety guards quickly in the event of an emergency. Roughly 8 children under 5 a year die from falling out a window according to the National Safety Council.
- Soft landscaping below windows can help reduce an impact if an individual falls out the window. In addition, high shrubbery make it more difficult to climb in your window if you are trying to break in.
- Make sure that the locking hardware works correctly on all of your windows. Pay attention to easy access windows on your first floor. If you close your windows, take the time to lock them.
- Consider windows made from reinforced glass if you live in an area prone to hurricanes or earthquakes. Windows made from reinforced glass are much harder to break and can help improve the security of your home. Safety glass can be up to five times harder to break than regular windows.
- For ventilation on double hung windows open the top part of the window to let in air instead of the bottom portion. Even on the second floor, pay attention to how wide your windows are open.
If you own a home and you have young children, also pay attention to the blinds and cords that are on your windows. Children can strangle by getting their neck wrapped around the cord. Secure cords out of the reach of small children. Teach your children the importance of not banging on glass windows, and to avoid jumping on the furniture near windows. Lock your windows each night, and make sure that each lock works properly.
Safety Measure for Your Home
You can keep your home safe from intrusion by installing motion lights, investing in safety glass windows and using window safety guards. If security is a big concern, you can also install motion cameras to track activity outside your home. Window safety can have a big impact on the overall safety of your home. Pay attention to locking your windows and know when it's time for a replacement.
When you are ready to replace the windows in your home, work with a professional who can help you. If you are looking for new safety windows for your home in West Caldwell, NJ or the surrounding area, it's time to contact RWC Windows, Doors & More at 973-227-7123 for further information. We have a full line of safety glass windows and window safety guards for you to choose from to help keep your home safe.
Bathroom Window Ideas and Code Updates for New Jersey
Introduction
There are many codes to follow when renovating a bathroom. Part of the process involves determining which parts of the bathroom can be replaced through grandfather clauses, and which parts have to be brought up to modern building codes. The rule of thumb is that if it met code at the time it was built, it can be maintained; new work has to meet new standards. For example, tempered window glass requirements in bathrooms were not always an absolute rule, but it is now -- and code dictates window replacements meet certain standards.
Traditional Building Codes
In the past, building codes were far more relaxed than they are today. In some cases, the technology simply did not exist to make a house, especially the bathroom, as safe as it can be made today. Bathrooms are wet because of shower and bath steam, along with spilled water from the sink. In a most dire situation, a water leak can cause flood damage. Preventative safety codes are designed into bathroom requirements to minimize potential injuries and hazards in such scenarios. Building codes further provide demonstrable proof that the renovations were conducted at a professional level, and will meet the needs of most people.
New Codes and Expectations
Most people understand the need for GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interruption) electric outlets. They have an internal circuit breaker that prevents electrocution in bathrooms, as a space that mixes water and electricity can be dangerous. Glass types are another code requirement. The glass for bathroom windows and throughout the entire room must be tempered, because floor surfaces in a bathroom become slippery and are a potential falling hazard. Although a fall itself can cause injury, injury can also be caused if a shower window shatters. For this reason, windows in a shower can be exceptionally dangerous. This is just another reason why bathroom windows are based around safety precautions.
Design and Build a Beautiful Bathroom
No matter how nice a bathroom is upon initial home purchase, most people are going to want to remodel the room to their specific interior design tastes at some point -- especially if they plan to live in the house into their retirement years. Alternatively, there might be a great deal available on a quaint older house that needs renovations to incorporate modern expectations. Either way, bathroom renovations are best done by professionals who are trained in the process and understand what works for most people, what looks the best in terms of luxury bathroom design, and what meets code.
Why You Must Follow Building Codes
Some people wonder why they have to follow a building code, when they can potentially conduct renovations themselves for the same cosmetic effect without the expense of hiring a licensed contractor.
- The first reason is that building codes are in place for a reason, which includes both the structural integrity of the home and how common accidents occur.
- Nobody thinks they might slip and fall, but it happens, and unfortunately it tends to happen with elderly people and children who can suffer the most harm from such a fall.
- Bathroom windows must be tempered to maintain safety
- Unpermitted work that isn't up to code doesn't add value to the home. Instead, it detracts value as a sale will require the work to be removed and the bathroom be rebuilt.
Conclusion
Fortunately, there are amazing bathroom window ideas and options available for further bathroom renovations at RWC. Contact us at RWC Windows, Doors, and More to discuss with one of our professional representatives what we can do to make your bathroom more comfortable and beautiful for your own use while you live there and to add value to the home should you decide to sell.
*This is an updated version of a December 2018 post. Read the original post below!*
Bathroom renovations and remodeling projects add value to a home whether for your personal comfort or if you intend to resell the house, but such projects are only worthwhile if they follow construction code for bathrooms and windows. Work that doesn't meet code not only was conducted without permits and inspections, therefore being worthless, but may also have been conducted improperly. The only way to know for certain is to rebuild the renovations, making the house worth less than it was before the project started.
General Code Requirements
Code requirements for residential windows may vary slightly according to local law and weather conditions, but there are some general baseline requirements. A window might have met code when installed but doesn't meet current expectations of architectural design. In such a case, it is acceptable to leave the window as is when remodeling around it, but the window can't be moved or expanded if it doesn't meet current code. If a renovation alters the window's structure, the window has to be replaced with one acceptable by today's inspectors.
Specific Bathroom Building Code
Windows in general need to be made of tempered glass, which is a bit different than years ago when only upper story windows needed to be tempered and first floor windows could be regular glass. However, a bathroom is designated as a dangerous area, and thus needs extra protection according to bathroom code requirements, specifically, a protective glaze finish on the windows. There are several practical reason for such a rule. First is that moisture can make the floor slippery, leading to a fall. Secondly, steam can obstruct vision. Finally, should obstructed vision and a slippery floor lead to a broken window, people tend to be barefoot meaning broken glass has a high potential of causing a foot injury.
Window Options
There are several available window options, depending on the size and shape of your specific bathroom. Regular double hung windows are the paradigm standard, as they allow for ventilation and aesthetic properties for every situation. Alternatively, a garden window or bay window might add a luxurious feel to your bath. Clear glass provides a great view of a private lot, or according to your need for privacy, frosted or tinted windows may serve well to allow for natural lighting without letting your neighbors watch you bathe. Block windows remain a viable alternative but they are expensive, look dated, don't open to allow for fresh air, and rarely accomplish the goal the homeowner hoped to achieve.
What you Need to Know Before Starting a Renovation
- As with any building project, make sure to use a reputable contractor who attains the proper permits and builds to code.
- Be sure to verify what local code requires and make sure what you have planned is legitimate and will add value to your home.
- Look into your options and make sure the new bathroom designs are going to accomplish what you want done whether making the bathroom more comfortable for your own use or as a means of enhancing the resell value of the house.
Conclusion
If you're interested in a bathroom renovation, give us a call at RWC. We specialize in kitchen and bathroom renovations, along with windows and doors, and are fully licensed contractors willing to address other projects you may have as well. We're a family owned local business who takes pride in the fact you'll find everyone who works for us, from the sales team to the designers to the technicians who conduct the work at your home, to be courteous professionals who are well trained in doing the job right and to your satisfaction.
*The post below has been updated since January 2018.*
When renovating your bathroom, adding a window or changing the location of an existing window to fit your new bathroom layout is a common issue. The additional fresh air from a quality window will aid in ventilation and help prevent mold problems that are notorious in bathrooms.
When considering bathroom window glass options, it is important to review the construction coding system standard. The MasterFormat construction code lists the general requirements of the materials that are used in homes and other structures. It includes 17 major divisions, of which Division 7 - Thermal and Moisture Prevention and Division 8 - Doors and Windows, are of importance when installing bathroom windows.
In 2016, Houzz.com conducted one of the largest remodeling surveys of over 120,000 American homeowner projects and found that kitchen/bathroom renovations accounted for nearly 50% of general contractor work. This trend will likely continue to grow as the most cited reasons for renovation versus buying a new home are:
- To have a bathroom with custom features and layout
- Adds significantly to the value of the home
- A desire to remain in the same neighborhood
The Truth about Bathroom Windows
When you consider your bathroom window options, speak with one of our reputable bathroom or door/window installation contractors who can guide you through selecting the best window solutions for your bathroom. While adding windows enhances decor, natural lighting and fresh air, you should also consider the problems that may arise. Using the wrong type of window or an improperly installed window can cause serious problems.
Windows in the tub or shower area are prone to standing water, resulting in unhealthy, unpleasant rot or mold. Additionally, if the bathroom is not adequately ventilated, condensation on windows can freeze, weakening seals in the long term. For safety, bathroom windows may need to be tempered or safety glass. The building code should be referenced to determine the height of a window above the shower floor.
Adhering to the Construction Code
The New Jersey Construction Code for Windows in Rehabilitated Bathrooms (Subcode, N.J.A.C. 5:23-6) states that if you are replacing your windows only, then the bathroom is considered a "specific hazardous location," and that replacement glass must comply with 'safety glazing' requirements.
Conversely, if your fixtures will be replaced during your remodel (at the same location), then a pre-existing window is permitted to remain without the safety requirement. If fixtures are moved to new locations, then pre-existing windows must be changed to fit the safety regulations. Consult with a professional bathroom and/or window and door contractor to make sure your bathroom remodel adheres to the construction code.
Bathroom Window Options
There are many options for attractive and functional windows for your bathroom remodel. If privacy is a concern, opt for frosted, patterned, or privacy glass. Consider curtains or blinds if you prefer sunlight but want to add just the right amount of privacy.
The bigger decision is what material and operating mechanism your new windows will have. Since wood absorbs moisture, a good fiberglass or vinyl framed window are the best option for bathrooms. If you desire a window that opens, a crank-operated window is a good option, as they seal tightly. A quality casement window hinged at the top is also another good option.
Takeaways
- A bathroom window provides ventilation and reduces moisture build-up leading to mold
- Refer to the construction coding system for safe bathroom window installations and materials
- If bathroom fixtures are relocated, then the windows must be brought up to code
- Choose vinyl or fiberglass windows over wood frames for a longer window lifecycle
If you are considering a bathroom remodel, or just replacing your homes damaged or molded bathroom windows, reach out to us at RWC Windows, Doors and More to speak with our knowledgeable staff. We can also supply custom sized and shaped windows to fit every home remodeling requirement. Contact us today!
Ultimate Guide To Winterizing Windows
If your home has drafty windows, it's almost like you’re throwing money away every time you heat your home. According to the Department of Energy’s website, homes will lose up to 30% of interior heating by the transfer of cold air in and the leaking of warm air out. The best way to increase your home's comfort -- and lower your utility bills -- is with an energy efficient window replacement.
This guide will give homeowners several options for replacement windows, along with ways to seal and insulate windows for winter. You may have some windows that are in fairly good condition, but even those can benefit from sealing cracks and/or insulating the glass and frame.
These are the two ways you can maximize your heat and protect your windows:
- Sealing - to block wind and moisture from entering through frame joints and sealant cracks
- Insulation - to block the transfer of cold surface air through the glass and into the home
Living in a cold and windy winter climate means your home should have energy-efficient windows, or at a minimum low-E coated storm windows. High-efficiency storm windows feature an invisible layer on the window's glass that will reduce both radiation and conduction heat losses. Other ways to winterize windows include:
Install Heating Saving Windows
Heat saving windows are highly efficient. Double-glazed low-E windows with insulation perform much better over single-pane, insulated windows because they have a better U-factor (the measure of heat transfer which indicates how well the window insulates) and a better solar heat gain coefficient (which indicates how well the window transfers solar heat).
Other benefits that are built-into energy saving windows may include:
- Vinyl frame for greater thermal performance
- Insulated with 2 panes of sealed glass to trap cold air
- Gas filled between the panes will further reduce heat transfer
- Spacers to allow for thermal expansion and prevent moisture leaks.
Seal Windows for Winter
Sealing your drafty windows may be necessary to block air drafts and moisture from entering through the smallest cracks and crevices. A homeowner will find multiple options for sealing your windows:
- Caulking - First, all old caulking should be removed from the perimeter of windows. The frame and window should be clean and dry before caulking. A fresh bead of continuous caulk, usually a silicone based product, is applied around the entire frame.
- Weatherstripping - This product is sold as an adhesive-backed foam, tubular rubber-gasket, or a V-shaped plastic strip. Each material has its own process for installation. The benefit is that most weatherstripping can be removed if you prefer open windows during milder seasons.
Insulate Windows for Winter
You can gain some energy saving if you have damaged windows by installing a window insulation kit to block the transfer of cold air from outside, and to keep warm air in the home for longer periods of time. These kits will include a plastic shrink-wrap that is first adhered to the interior window casing using double sided tape. Heat is then applied with a blow dryer, to shrink the plastic and effectively insulate the home against drafts. Window insulation kits are only a temporary solution, and they are often not aesthetically appealing. They can also be prone to failure. Therefore, the plastic should be reapplied each year.
Takeaways
- Homes will lose up to 30% of interior heating by the transfer of cold air in and the leaking of warm air out
- Double-glazed low-E windows with insulation perform much better over single-pane for heating saving windows
- Seal windows for winter by using either caulking or weatherstripping products obtained from home improvement stores
- Window insulation kits are only a temporary solution until home window replacement can be planned
For the best energy efficiency during bitterly cold and windy winters, you may want to consider combining different techniques, especially if your home is older or your window frames are damaged. Continue to discover what homeowner window replacement options RWCNJ recommends.
Note: This is an updated version of our previous blog post, “The Ultimate Guide to Winterizing Windows".