Windows

What to Look For When Hiring A Window Company In The North Jersey Area

When you decide to replace the windows in your home, the first decision is not which window material or window styles you will choose - but instead, you may wonder what to look for when searching for contractors or comparing the best window companies in NJ. High-pressure sales tactics can be one warning sign that the company may be hiding a lack of quality workmanship or they may be selling substandard products at an unreasonable price.

To make sure your window replacement experience doesn't end with regrets, here are some ways you can tell if you're dealing with an unqualified, outdated marketing tactic or a company built on performing the best job for their customers.

Choosing the Best Window Companies NJ

Research - References, Reviews, and Ratings

A good window company will reference some of its best work in a photo gallery as a visual testament to the work they are most proud of. This is your first indication of if the company is right for you, especially if you need custom windows or are looking to add windows that increase the architectural style of the home. Some companies choose to post completed projects on social media sites instead, which is also great because you can look at any comments that are posted by customers.

In addition to checking the company's business website, look for customer reviews and ratings from independent sites. Yelp & Facebook are local consumers' most trusted review sites, followed by Google & BBB.org

Comparing Costs is Relative

If you have a budget you must stick to, then carefully comparing costs is essential, but you must compare apples to apples. Home improvement cost analysis sites such as HomeAdvisor will offer a ballpark range, but it really depends on the quality of windows and the company that you choose. Homeowners should be wary of companies with low window replacement costs - there is a reason why they can reduce their prices and it usually indicates low-quality material or labor.

Use the ballpark cost projections in addition to other information as a guideline that indicates the quality of the company's services.

Choose Certified Window Installers

Window quality is important, but installation is even more important. When you choose a window replacement company that certifies their technicians, it means they have been fully trained in window company best practices. A quality installation will follow the window manufacturer's requirements along with ASTM Standard E2112 Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights. Speak directly to the company about how their technicians are company-trained and if they are nationally certified.

Avoid companies that use 1 or 2 trained workers with a crew of laborers - every window installed should be level, plumb, square, watertight, sealed, and allow for thermal expansion.

Checking the Company's Paperwork

All reputable companies should have ready access to certain documentation that proves they are working above board. These include a strong manufacturer's warranty (based on length of time and level of coverage) and also ask about the process involved if there is a problem with the installation itself. Whatever company you choose they should always carry the necessary liability insurance, workers compensation, technical data on any windows that are labeled energy efficient, in addition to a General Contractor's License.

Takeaways

1. High-pressure sales tactics may be a warning sign that should not be ignored.
2. Always research the company's website and independent reviews and ratings.
3. Ask questions about the window company best practices and window design ideas.
4. Make sure the company has liability insurance and is a licensed contractor.
5. Comparing costs can be misleading - rule out extremely low or exceptionally high services

Don't leave a major home improvement project like residential window replacement to guesswork. Do the research, ask the questions, and check the paperwork before you sign on the dotted line. RWC specializes in bathrooms renovations, door replacement, window replacement, and kitchen remodeling so feel free to contact us with any questions you may have - we would be happy to help!

by RWC

Window Damage Repair 101: How to Spot Window Damage

Windows are an integral part of every home, and often one of the first fail points as a house ages. Anyone who owns or rents a house understands the basic function of a window. What some people may not realize is that windows are intended to be replaced. It isn't a big job or large renovation, but new windows can help keep down heating and cooling bills and maintain a level of comfort and safety in the home. Although windows should be inspected by a professional on a regular basis to ensure they are performing at peak efficiency, there are definitive signs of when a window is beyond repair and undergoing a potentially catastrophic need for replacement.

Evaluate Cosmetic Damage

Although a professional can search for more definite signs your windows need replacement, such as potential structural failure, the homeowner can easily look for obvious signs concerning cosmetic appeal which may indicate a window is not serving its intended purpose. Vinyl replacement windows, although they are in most cases virtually indestructible, ultimately have an endpoint at which time they are either unable to function properly or are no longer up to modern standards and expectations of a window. Wooden frames offer more opportunities for window repair as they age, and can be an architectural aspect of a building which may not warrant window replacement even when they no longer are providing their proper function, but typically when a window is past its useful life it is best to replace it with a new one.

Look for Structural Flaws

Structural flaws are more difficult to determine than cosmetic damage, but there are some signs which indicate window frame damage. Condensation inside the window or between the panes of glass is an absolute determination of how the window is failing. In some cases, there may be an issue with the building settling over time, and the window issue can be repaired by addressing the framework around it, but in general terms if that is the case the window is going to need replacement along with whatever is necessary to stabilize the framework around it. Each situation is a bit different and window frame repair requires the advice of a professional to determine what the best course of action may be.

Determine if the Glass is Stable

In some cases, window glass can be cracked or broken from causes like water damage, termite damage, or hail damage during a storm, and window glass repair will be needed. Any glass shop can add a new piece of glass for a fairly inexpensive price, but that doesn't compensate for the stable gas used between panes to help insulate the house. It's usually a better idea to simply replace the window. The labor cost is going to be the same to remove the window, whether a new one goes in or the old one is reinstalled, and the price of properly replacing the glass is going to be comparable to the price of a new window, so there really isn't much reason to keep the older one.

Takeaways

If your windows don’t seem to be serving their purpose, they may require window damage repair. Review a few items in order to determine how best to proceed:

• Check for cosmetic appeal and visible damage.
• Determine if there is underlying structural damage.
• Seek the advice of a professional for damaged windows.

At such a time, contact us at RWC so we can have an expert provide you with an evaluation and provide a recommendation as to what can be done to remedy the problem and which new windows may best serve the needs of the home. A professional representative will be happy to meet at your convenience to discuss our window repair in NJ!

by RWC

Are There Window Options Besides Single Hung vs Double Hung?

Homeowners are starting to consider the many window options that are available for more than energy efficiency, but also for adding historical relevance or architectural beauty to a home. With the many different types of windows available, you can add stunning visual interest, such as when a bay window or large picture window is substituted for a pair of front-facing windows - the difference to both the house's interior and exterior can be quite dramatic.

Single Hung vs Double Hung Windows

Starting with the most common replacement windows chosen by homeowners, single hung and double hung windows are a popular option when replacing older sash windows. Double hung windows are operable by vertically sliding open/closed either the top or bottom panes. A single-hung window is less expensive and will have a fixed upper pane with a bottom sash that slides up for opening.

When comparing single vs double hung windows, you’ll notice that neither are energy efficient choices, especially when you consider that "heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. " according to Energy.gov. If you are deciding between double or single hung windows, consider the following:

• Double hung windows are easier to clean, especially on upper-level floors
• Single hung windows are less expensive, sometimes up to 20% less
• Both will feature a tilt-out mechanism for exterior cleaning
• Double hung windows offer greater ventilation to homes

When you hire a professional to remodel your home, HGTV suggests that homeowners should "...select the style that looks most authentic — and most attractive — for your architecture." When it comes to style and function, homeowners have other window options besides double hung windows. Consider the following types of windows that can update your home's appearance, add more natural lighting, or return your home to an authentic architectural style.

Types of Windows and Home Styles

If you are considering replacing residential windows for more architecturally authentic options here are some types of windows and the home styles that designers and architects will pair together.

Picture Window - is a large span, fixed window that can be either rectangular or square and can replace a set of windows to allow more light into a main living area. You will often find a picture window on coastal homes in order to have an unobstructed, scenic view - but all contemporary homes, such as a ranch style, can easily incorporate a picture window, proving that picture window options are endless!

Casement windows - swing inward on a side hinge with a crank operator and will allow the freshest air to flow into your home. Cottages, beach homes, or any home in a warmer climate that will benefit from the cool evening or morning breeze that casement windows allow.

Bay windows - are beautiful projected windows that feature a larger center window flanked by two angled, side windows to create a light-filled, open space in a living room, sunroom, bedroom, or even a kitchen. Adding a bay window is a good home improvement project that will increase your home's appeal and resale value. When you install a bay window, you can create a quiet space for reading or bird watching by adding a padded window seat.

Awning windows - are smaller single pane windows that swing in from the bottom to open and can also double as a rain shield. Awning windows are great to add light to high ceiling rooms and as another method of ventilation. But awning windows are also perfect for rooms where you desire more privacy, making them perfect for bathrooms and basements.

House Window Types Takeaways

• Create a breathtaking view by replacing sash windows with a picture window.
• Add architectural detail to your home with a bay window installation.
• Casement windows are easy to clean and offer optimum ventilation.
• Victorian style homes will often feature awning basement windows

For the largest selection of architectural windows, including Marvin Infinity Windows manufactured with fiberglass and built for beauty and longevity, visit us at RWC Windows, Doors and More for best window options for home improvement. We have been proud window installers of the popular window types mentioned above, including bay windows, single hung, and double hung windows in New Jersey since 1959!

by RWC

Bow vs. Bay Windows: What Are The Differences Between A Bay & Bow Window?

Adding bay or bow windows to your home is a great option if you’re looking to add extra natural light inside and get a better view of the outdoors. They can add literal floor space or a perceived perception of extra room inside, and often serve a specific function such as a reading, art, or music area in the home. When hearing the two terms, most people who aren't architects may wonder, “What is the difference between a bay and bow window?” Although both will perform similarly in most environments, there is a difference between bay and bow windows.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Bay Windows

The advantages and disadvantages of bow vs. bay windows really depend on the layout of the house and the preferences of the homeowner. A distinct advantage of the bay window is that it is usually less expensive because it is usually manufactured and installed as a single unit similarly to an ordinary double hung window. The wall opening for the window may have to be altered to accept the new window but makes a substantial change in the feeling of the room.

Reasons to Choose a Bow Window

A bow style window has the disadvantage of expense when compared to a bay window, as it requires structural framework and is a major renovation to the home. A bow window typically has either four or five individually manufactured windows which are installed in what is essentially a small extension to the room. The advantages of such a project is how the wider window allows even more light to come in and provides a wider view with more angles to the outside of the house. Each window functions separately and can be raised or lowered independently according to the direction of sunlight and breezes on the outside, whereas the bay window usually consists of a picture window in the middle with a single window which opens on either side.

General Considerations when Choosing New Windows

Bay and bow windows require the same considerations as any other window replacement in the house. Energy efficiency and cosmetic appeal should both be incorporated in the project. Choosing vinyl, wood, or metal frames is a personal preference, whether to choose a double or triple pane window is a matter of budget and consideration of how it might affect a power bill over time. The final decision toward a bay versus bow window lies in what you find preferable and how one or the other may work within your home.

Conclusion

A few key points of note when discussing the project with a contractor and making the final decision of bay windows vs. bow windows and which to choose for your home:

• A bay window is going to be less expensive.
• Bay windows are made of three types of windows installed as a unit, with a picture window in the middle and vented windows on either side.
• A bow window is an extension of the room with at least four or five separate windows working together in tandem to provide the desired effect.
• As with any window or other home improvements, carefully consider the quality of the window and contractor ability before beginning the project.

If you have any further questions about whether a bay or bow window may be suitable for your home, contact us at RWC to have a courteous and professional representative discuss what solutions we can make available to your needs. RWC proudly provides bay windows in NJ & bow windows in NJ. We’ll be happy to give an up-front estimate and help with design and installation for your new project.

by RWC

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.

by RWC

Household Windows: Frequently Asked Questions

Household windows contribute a great role in the functionality and beautification of a home. For one, they are essential in allowing ample light into the house during the day.  This not only gives the home an outdoor feel, but also saves homeowners on energy bills. Household windows can improve the aesthetic appeal of a home by using in unique styles, colors and materials. However, there are many things about household windows that are not well understood. If you are looking for some answers on how to choose new home windows, or why windows fog and crack, keep reading.

How do I choose new household windows?

Choosing home windows can be a daunting task if you have never done it before or if you are not conversant with the construction industry. There are many types of windows available today, and each has its own set of benefits and demerits. The best way to choose home windows is to consult a professional home improvement expert to guide you through the selection process.

A professional will meet with you and discuss the most cost-effective, energy-saving, and stylish type of windows that meets your tastes and preferences. They will take precise measurements of your windows, show you various materials and designs of windows that match your tastes and preferences, give you an overview of the all the financing options available, and give you a quotation of the installation costs.

Will replacing my windows help my home to be more energy efficient?

Yes! Replacing your windows will definitely make your home more energy efficient. Windows and doors are crucial in insulating your home especially during extremely cold and hot months. In summer, they help keep the hot air out and the cool air in. In winter, they keep the cold air out and the hot air in.

Replacing your single pane windows with double or triple pane windows that are energy efficient will see you save between 10-25% per year on your heating and cooling bills, according to ConsumerReports.org. Replacing your windows to energy efficient ones can give you a return on investment of over 80% during home resale.

Why do my windows fog?

Windows fog because of moisture condensation. When the seals between the glass panes break or wear out and allow moisture to leak in, it condenses on the window and causes fogging between the panes. This is common in older windows and doors. The fogging is prevalent on the sunny side of the home.  Additional heat from the sun rays tends to accelerate the wear of seals and caulk on windows. If your windows are giving you an obscured view, consider replacing them with a quality glass system that can give you a clear view for years.

Also ensure that the installation work is done right by professionals to avoid any moisture leaks leading to fogging.

Why did my windows crack?

Remember that windows are made of glass which can be affected by expansion and shrinking because of heat and cold? Often referred to as “stress cracks”, cracks on windows mainly occur in large windows that are in shaded areas or in a recessed wall. The shadows created by these areas cause a fast changing stress factor between part of the glass that is in the shaded, cooler area and the part that is in the un-shaded, warmer/sunny area. When the stress becomes too much from the heating and cooling, the glass can crack.

Why is my wooden window stuck?

Your window could be stuck due to swelling caused by the wet weather in your area. If you recently painted your window frames, excess paint could cause it to stick to the frame. If it’s wet weather, use a dehumidifier to bring down the swelling and work the window free. To open the paint window, slide in a utility knife carefully to break the paint seal.

Takeaways:

• Consult a professional when choosing new home windows.
• Replacing your windows can make your home more energy efficient.
• Quality window systems can help you avoid fogging.
• You can easily get your wooden window unstuck.

There are a few household windows FAQs and their answers. If you have any questions about your windows, windows selection, windows replacement, windows installation, or windows repair in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to contact us at RWC.

by RWC

Mold Prevention Tips You Need To Stop Mold On Windows

Most homeowners think of mold as a problem in basements, laundry rooms, or crawl spaces only. But knowing what really causes mold on windows doesn’t limit its growth to these areas of your home. Actually, mold can grow anywhere there is an accumulation of excess moisture and the proper temperature. It just so happens that the ideal temperature for human comfort - between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, is also optimum for the growth of mold and fungi.

Is Mold on Windows Dangerous?

Moldy windows can have harmful effects on your family's health. Upper respiratory symptoms along with skin and eye irritation are possible. Identifying, removing, and preventing mold around windows is crucial to your family health. In some homes, replacing the windows and frames may be the best mold prevention solution.

How To Identify Mold on Window Frames & Glass

Favorable conditions for mold are often found on or around windows. The problem for the homeowner is that mold around windows is not always visible to the eye. The joints where the glass meets the window frame, especially near the bottom is a common breeding ground for mold around window sill. Sometimes mold can be invisible on the glass, matching the color of the window itself. Other times, mold can be identified as a green, white, yellow, pink, or black - depending on the specific mold spores.

Getting Rid of Mold on Windows

The CDC cites the mold around window sill as an increasing concern, with serious possible side effects such as memory loss and lack of energy. Follow these general guidelines to remove mold from windows:

• Dampen the mold by spraying with water from a spray bottle to prevent mold spores from circulating in the air.
• It is recommended to wear gloves, an air mask, and safety goggles for personal protection.
• With a non-abrasive brush, scrub the mold around windows with a solution of 1/4 to 1/2 cup bleach added to a gallon of water.
• Wipe away all loosened mold with paper towels and discard in a sealed plastic bag.

If you prefer not to use bleach when cleaning your window frame and other surfaces, alternate methods are available. Soaking the molded areas with white vinegar followed by a good scrubbing with baking soda – or use a diluted fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Replacing your windows is always an option for ensuring the complete removal of mold on windows.

Mold Prevention Tips

Regularly clean your bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom windows to remove dust and moisture. Take steps to prevent condensation from forming on windows and other places in the home that sweat. Ventilate rooms where moisture is present, such as the bathrooms, laundry room, and kitchen. You may also consider a dehumidifier if air moisture is a problem in your home.

When to Consider New Windows

Double pane windows with moisture on the inside is an indication of the seals deteriorating and provide a breeding ground for mold. If your casement windows or wood framed windows are difficult to open and shut, this can indicate water infiltration within the frame causing swelling or inlets for debris. All these problems can be a sign of moisture infiltration, which can lead to hidden mold growth.

Takeaways:

• Consistent sinus and respiratory problems may indicate mold within the home
• Perform mold inspections by examining the joints, casing, and window sills for signs of mold growth
• Regularly clean your bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom windows
• Follow mold removal guidelines carefully to prevent mold from going airborne
• Control mold growth by removing moisture in your house and on interior surfaces
• Replace windows that may have mold growing in unseen crevices

Contact RWC, a family owned and operated window and door replacement company located in West Caldwell, New Jersey with over 50 years of experience in window replacements to solve your home's window mold problems. We don't just specialize in removing mold from windows. We'd love to use our knowledge of window care, safety, design, and installation to help you get the best windows for your home. We take pride in quality service and offer a wide range of solutions for window replacement in New Jersey to fit your budget.

by RWC

From Ceiling to Floor: How to Make Your Windows Picture Perfect

There's little that can match the stunning visual effect of floor-to-ceiling windows. In fact, just looking at them gives the impression that there are no downsides – but is it true? Here are some of the benefits of these windows, along with a couple of hidden drawbacks that you should be aware of:

The Pros of Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

The biggest pro of these windows is also the most obvious; they look great. They provide excellent, panoramic views of the outdoors, bringing natural elements into the home.  Their size makes the room look bigger from inside and out and they make your home appear more expensive.

Floor-to-ceiling windows also create spaces with an abundance of natural light. Combined with the great view of the outdoors they provide, this creates a relaxing space. Studies cited by the University of Minnesota have shown that views of the outdoors lower blood pressure and speed healing. This is a benefit that will make you feel better physically and mentally.

With these windows, you eliminate the need to repaint the walls in order to get a fresh view. The outdoors is constantly changing, with minor differences every day and major ones with each season. You'll be happy to put down the paintbrush once and for all, both indoors and out – and best of all, the scenery will always be more interesting than any paint color!

Adding these windows also increases the perceived value of the home. They look very opulent, and it goes without saying that would-be home buyers will expect to pay more to get a house that includes them. To maximize this effect, be sure the windows are placed so that they overlook the best possible view.

The Drawbacks

As with anything else, there are a few drawbacks to these windows. The cost of floor to ceiling windows can be quite high - from $700 to $1,600 according to Modernize.com - not only because of the amount of glass involved, but due to the amount of engineering and carpentry needed to install them. Since they can take up most or all of a wall, new beams and frames will need to be installed to take the weight of the house. This can make the price prohibitive for some homeowners. That said, home improvement financing can eliminate funding delays.

The lack of privacy offered by the bare windows can be a problem if they are facing in a direction that allows passers-by or neighbors to see in from outdoors. However, this is just a minor issue. Drapes, curtains, blinds, and other standard window coverings are available in large sizes and will provide plenty of privacy when they're closed. For privacy even while the coverings are open, consider tinted or mirrored glass. The drawback with this sort of glass is that it can block too much light if the windows are facing a shady side of the house.

Takeaways:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows look expensive, and this can raise the value of a house
• These windows let in plenty of light
• Natural views reduce stress and can even lower blood pressure
• Large windows don't just look expensive. They actually are, so financing is often needed.
• Privacy can be a concern in some locations.
• Use window coverings or tinted glass to increase indoor privacy

When you decide to go ahead with a home renovation that includes floor-to-ceiling windows, call RWC or fill out the quick form on our site. We serve customers in northern New Jersey and can handle all of your renovations and upgrades. We'll not only install your windows, but take care of any structural updates that are required for these large openings.

by RWC