Windows

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!

by RWC

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.

by RWC

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.

by RWC

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.

by RWC

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.

by RWC

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". 

by RWC

Exterior Window Trim Ideas & Styles: A Guide for Every Home Type

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. 

by RWC

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!

by RWC