Archive for the ‘Windows’ Category
Mitigate for Hail Damage by Summer Storms
The structural stability of your roof and the aesthetic appeal of your property are greatly affected by hail damage by summer storms in Colorado. Hail is created when raindrops are lifted by updrafts in thunderstorms into freezing temperatures, resulting in various sizes of hailstones ranging from tiny pebbles to large, destructive spheres. Although hail damage is a concern regardless of the weather, it is especially detrimental when it happens during scorching summer days.
Why is Hail Damage by Summer Storms So Destructive?
On a hot day, the hailstones that fall during a storm have a higher chance of causing severe damage to a roof. The reason for this lies in the difference in temperature between the hailstones and the hot surface of the roof. When hailstones make contact with a roof, the extreme temperature contrast can cause the shingles or roofing material to expand and contract rapidly. This leads to cracks or even complete breakage.
Also, the hot summer weather can cause the roof material to be more vulnerable to hail impact due to its softened state. The extreme heat causes asphalt shingles, for example, to become more pliable, making them more prone to denting and puncturing. This softening increases the likelihood of hailstones penetrating the protective layers of the roof and can cause damage to the underlying structure.
In addition to the immediate physical damage caused by hailstones, there can be long-term consequences for the roof’s longevity. Even seemingly minor hail damage, such as dented or cracked shingles, can compromise the roof’s ability to provide adequate protection against water seeping in. This can lead to outright leaks, rot, and further degradation of the roof. It could potentially result in expensive repairs or even the need for a full roof replacement.
To mitigate the effects of hail damage by summer storms, homeowners can take some preventive measures. Here are some recommendations:
- Install impact-resistant roofing materials: Consider upgrading to materials that are designed to withstand hail damage. Materials such as impact-resistant shingles or metal roofs have a higher resistance to hail and will provide better protection for your roof.
- Trim trees nearby: Trim back any branches that are close to or hanging over your roof to minimize the chances of them breaking or causing additional damage during a hailstorm.
- Reinforce vulnerable areas: Identify places on your roof, such as valleys, flashing, or areas around vents and chimneys that may require a little reinforcement. Ensure that they are properly sealed and protected to reduce the likelihood of water infiltration and damage caused by hail impact.
- Install protective barriers: Consider installing hail guards or screens over vulnerable areas of your roof. These barriers can help absorb the impact of hailstones and prevent them from directly hitting the roof surface which reduces potential damage.
- Regularly inspect the roof: Schedule regular roof inspections by a professional to identify any existing vulnerabilities or signs of damage. A professional roofer can assess the condition of your roof, spot potential weak points, and recommend appropriate repairs or maintenance to strengthen your roof against hail damage by summer storms.
- Monitor weather forecasts: Stay informed about weather conditions in your area, especially during the summer months when hailstorms are more common. If a severe storm is predicted, take precautions such as moving vehicles and outdoor furniture under cover to minimize potential damage from hail.
While these preventive measures can help reduce the risk of hail damage by summer storms, it’s important to have adequate insurance coverage for your home. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it provides coverage for hail damage, especially here in Colorado.
Remember, you can’t protect your roof completely from what mother nature dishes out but, there are some precautions and preparations you can make. The best defense is always a good offense so keep up with visual inspections and tackle potential issues before they become huge problems. If you need a professional for a free, honest, no obligation visual inspection, contact HRTI today.
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What does Window Replacement Cost?
You may wonder what you should expect to pay to replace windows on your home. Window replacement cost will vary based on the size of your project, size and style of the windows, material of the window frames, and glass type. Each of these criteria play an important role in determining the price for the window and installation.
For replacement windows, measure the existing window opening and the new window is placed in the existing hole in the exterior wall. Resizing windows, either decreasing the size or increasing in size, is an additional service and not included in the standard prices. Resizing existing window openings requires construction and often permits to get the job completed.
New Window Replacement Cost
Most manufacturing companies have a minimum purchase requirement. Their minimum, not unlike a typical window replacement project, is three windows. The window replacement cost on this size job would be around $2850. This would include custom, double pane windows, installation, and disposal.
All replacement windows are specifically custom manufactured for the correct opening size. There is no way to stock standard replacement windows. While this type of replacement project begins around $2800, they can go up to $90,000 depending on the number and type of windows being installed.
Cost of Vinyl Replacement Windows
Vinyl frames are considered the most cost efficient and energy efficient option for home window replacement. They are also budget friendly and low maintenance. The vinyl frame is much more durable and energy efficient than its aluminum or wood counterparts. Vinyl replacement windows cost between $800 and $1985 depending on glass strength, size, and style of window.
The factors that will affect the cost of your project most are the type of windows and the frame material. Other factors include opting for energy efficiency, window brand, and what floor of your home the windows are located. Window replacement cost is subject to many factors.
No matter your budget or aesthetic, be sure to choose an experienced installer who has worked with many manufacturers and takes time with the details of the install. HRTI – Home Remodeling Technology, Inc. has been replacing windows in the Centennial/Littleton area since 1972. Contact us today to see how HRTI can get your home more energy efficient and beautiful today!
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Spring Cleanup Checklist
Spring Cleanup Doesn’t Have To Be Daunting
Spring cleanup always seems like a daunting task at the end of the winter. It seems to take forever and it isn’t the fun job. It is very beneficial though, it can make your home look picture perfect and ready to show off all summer long. It also can save homeowners money, depending on how much the homeowner checks the siding and windows for cracking or leaking they can either spend a lot of money or very little on repairs after a winter.
- Checking regularly on the siding for splitting or rotting can help save a homeowner money because replacing siding can be pricey.
- Check the bricks on your home and make sure nothing is loose that can cause injury or damage to the home.
- Cleaning gutters and checking on their repair before the rainy season is a must. Proper draining can help prevent things like leaky homes and rotting siding.
- Washing and treating the driveway helps prevent cracking and plants growing in it that can eventually decrease the integrity of the driveway
- Clean the deck and make sure all of the boards are in good repair, stain and seal if it is needed.
- Pull out all the furniture and make sure they are clean and in good repair. Make sure all of the decor is also in good repair
- Weed the yard and treat it with fertilizer and treatments to make it grow healthy and strong all summer.
- Ensure the sprinklers are working and reaching the entire yard. Sprinkler pipes are the easiest to crack during the winter so making sure they are in good repair is important.
- Once you are sure the cold freezes are over plant the garden and trim the trees and shrubs for a healthy growing season over the summer.
- Cleaning the front porch of cobwebs and dead bugs makes a big first impression to visitors.
- Clean the garage door and remove the cobwebs to have a clean exterior
Spring cleanup can be daunting, but there are so many rewards to getting it done. Having a clean home is always a satisfying feeling and giving your home a face lift after a harsh winter is a great reward.
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Benefits of wood and aluminum windows
Wood windows are the most traditional style of window and are found in most traditional style homes. Wood windows are great insulation, more so than steel or aluminum windows. Wood windows can last a very long time if cared for correctly. They are a great investment in your home but they require a lot of work so they are hard to care for with the homeowner’s busy schedules. Wood windows are the most Eco-friendly, for wood is a renewable resource.
Aluminum windows have many benefits, mentioning a few would be the carbon footprint, strength, price and durability. Aluminum windows generally save more energy every year than it took to produce them. Aluminum windows are recommended for hot climates based on the amount of energy savings. Homeowner’s heating and cooling costs reduce greatly based on the type of windows they have and aluminum windows do a great job. Aluminum windows are very durable, they won’t warp or sag in extreme temperatures giving homeowners the satisfaction for years to come. For the durability and the savings, aluminum windows won’t cost an arm and a leg. Generally, they are priced in the spectrum with other style window frames so you are able to find them at a reasonable price. Aluminum windows have one of the highest recycling rates of all windows.
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Benefits of vinyl windows
Most homeowners choose vinyl windows for their homes, and for a good reason too. Vinyl windows have tons of great benefits for the everyday home. Upgrading your homes windows shouldn’t cost a small fortune and with vinyl windows you can get the quality you want for a reasonable price. They come in almost any style, shape or size you could come up with. Vinyl windows have many other great features such as noise reduction, homeowner’s heating and cooling costs are lowered, and they are very low maintenance. Vinyl windows don’t require any painting or scraping so they are very convenient to the busy homeowner. Most cleaning can be done from inside the house, depending on the style of window you chose. Exterior maintenance is slim to none, and cleaning them is just as easy. Overall, the uses and benefits of vinyl windows makes them a top choice for homeowners.
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What window is the best choice for the climate you live in
Windows: Best Choice for the Climate Based on Region
The US varies in climates and temperatures throughout so you have to pick a window that will stand up to certain weather patterns or heat waves and be the best choice for the climate you are in.
In the Northwest, windows are exposed to a lot of moisture so the materials need to be able to withstand the precipitation. Vinyl, composite, and wood-resin are the most common for this geographical location. Wood windows are generally not a good choice for the area, the moisture causes the wood to warp or penetrate the wood and cause it to deteriorate faster.
The Southwest is a sunny spot in the US, and windows are an important choice depending on the sun exposure. Based on the climate, most types of windows can be used. Sunlight is the biggest factor in that area, so it is important to have solar heat resistance on the panes of glass. Having cheap glass can cause negative effects on heating and cooling bills, for the sun is able to come through and heat up the home.
In the Midwest, a different factor to take into consideration would be wind and twisters. For that general reason, homeowners tend to favor insulated double hung windows and casement windows, for they generally hold up well to strong winds. The highest demand of windows in the northeast are double hung windows. Wood frames are a very common choice in the area for the timeless and traditional look.
In the Southeast, the biggest choice homeowners consider is the heat. Windows can be a great energy saver in locations that are greatly exposed to sunlight. Double pane windows with low-e glass are the most common choice. It reduces the amount of sun exposure so heating and cooling costs are lower. Depending on the area of the Southeast, homeowners need to worry about storms and hurricanes. Homeowners tend to choose aluminum windows based on the strength and durability to withstand tropic storms.
Whatever climate you live in, it is important to choose the correct style and material to highlight your home and endure the weather. Choose correctly and get the best choice for the climate you are in.
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Are Fibrex windows worth the money?
Fibrex windows are a composite material that is a blend of wood and PVC materials making a strong material for window production. Fibrex windows are claimed to be two times the strength of regular vinyl windows and also around three times the cost. Fibrex windows are a product specifically produced by Windows by Anderson and range around $2400 per opening. The question is are they worth the money? There are benefits of going with Fibrex windows such as durability, and strength against large temperature fluctuations. They are tested and manufactured to be able to withstand high temperature changes. Windows by Anderson works quite a bit in Colorado and they are used to the hard elements the state undergoes. Depending on the elements and the part of the country you are located Fibrex windows could be beneficial, but some places they aren’t necessary. Are they worth the money? It very much depends on where the home is located and if it would be worth spending the extra money for the durability.
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Pros and Cons of Vinyl Windows
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Windows
If you’re looking into replacing the windows in your home, I’m sure you’ve discovered the myriad of choices offered to you these days. It can be overwhelming, confusing, and hard to make a decision. Maybe you’re still trying to decide which type of replacement window is right for you…check out our blog post on which replacement window is right for you? But, if you’re leaning towards vinyl windows, you’re making a good choice.
Vinyl windows were first manufactured in 1959 as an alternative to traditional wood windows. However, it wasn’t until the 90’s that vinyl windows really took off. Over the last few decades, vinyl window manufacturers have improved the process as well as the quality of vinyl used. While in the past, some homeowners noticed their vinyl windows beginning to sag and discolor over time, today’s vinyl windows will last decades and are virtually maintenance free.
Vinyl windows are made using polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the same material used in many plumbing products and other household items. Vinyl windows come in different grades, the most popular being Recycled Vinyl or Pure Virgin Vinyl. Recycled vinyl is made from a variety of recycled vinyl products. While this can reduce the cost of the window, it can also affect the durability and longevity. Pure virgin vinyl is a stronger material and is more durable than the alternative.
So…to the Pros and Cons of Vinyl Windows
Pros:
1. Energy Efficient
While most modern windows today will be far more energy efficient than your old, drafty windows, there are some things to look out for. Not all vinyl windows are built the same. Make sure your window is Energy Star Rated. Look for windows manufactured with Low-E gl
ass and possibly filled with argon gas. Both of these options will help to reflect heat from the outside during the summer and keep heat in during the winter – seriously saving on energy bills!
2. Cost Effective
Vinyl windows are the most cost effective type of window available today. They cost less than wood windows and less than fiberglass windows. Vinyl windows are just as energy efficient as the alternatives and are virtually maintenance free. That being said, there is a wide variety of prices and quality when looking at vinyl windows. For the same size vinyl window, a homeowner could pay $200 for a low quality, short life-span window or $800 for a top of the line vinyl window with all the bells and whistles (plus additional installation costs). While you don’t always get what you pay for (like everything else in life), the cheapest vinyl windows will usually not last long and you can run into broken seals, hardware, etc. pretty quickly. Be sure to do your research on window manufacturers and remember that most companies sell many different lines of windows that can vary greatly in quality, material and construction. (For example, a Simonton vinyl window sold at a big box construction store is different in quality, material, and construction than the lines we prefer to carry and install. While you won’t pay as much at the big box store, you are also getting a lower quality window.)
3. Easy and Cheap Installation
Vinyl windows are made for easy installation, especially when replacing existing windows. As long as you’ve found a quality contractor, replacing your existing windows should be quick and easy. This effects not only the mess and construction you have to deal with, but also the installation cost per window. This can make a dramatic difference in the price of your improvement project when compared with wood or fiberglass installation costs.
4. Maintenance Free (well…almost)
I guess we can’t claim that anything is maintenance free, but vinyl windows are pretty darn close. Once installed there’s really not much you need to do to your windows, other than keep them clean. It’s recommended to not use a high-pressure hose to clean windows. Instead, anything that normal weather doesn’t clean off can be cleaned with a soft cloth and, if necessary, non-abrasive cleaners. Most double-hung windows today offer the ability to swing inside your home so that you can easily clean the glass without a ladder or leaving the warmth of your home! Vinyl windows will not rot, peel, or chip even in severe weather climates, making them a long-lasting, low-maintenance product.
5. Lots of Options
With vinyl windows, you have the most style and color options of all. Vinyl windows can be made to be sliders, double-hung, single-hung, casement, picture, etc. (visit this page to learn more about window types). You can also create custom shapes and sizes and finish your window with a huge variety of color options.
6. Best Warranties
Again, all vinyl windows are not created equal. Depending on the manufacturer and specific window you choose, the warranties can vary. Many vinyl windows today (especially the best quality) offer full lifetime or double lifetime warranties. These double lifetime warranties can be a huge factor when selling your home as the warranty transfers to the new owners.
Cons:
1. Environmental Impact
The manufacturing process and the material itself is all chemicals. While vinyl is cheap to manufacture (thus keeping prices relatively low), it’s not a natural product and does have an environmental impact. Companies have tried to curb this impact in a number of ways. Recycled vinyl is used in some windows today, but quality and durability are compromised. The ability to recycle the vinyl windows themselves has improved, but finding a place to bring the old windows is difficult and the cost to recycle can be more than manufacturing the PVC from scratch.
2. Style Preference
Some people prefer the look and feel of natural wood in their homes and this isn’t something that can be replicated. Many wood window manufacturers can create wood windows that look like a piece of furniture. It can be painted to match the color palette of the home and provides a warmth that vinyl windows don’t have. However, wood windows are more expensive than vinyl and offer only similar energy efficiency with more maintenance.
3. With popularity comes variation in quality
Vinyl windows are the most popular type of window today. With the increased demand, came an increase in manufacturers as well as quality. Homeowners need to be vigilant in their research to be sure they’re getting the best quality and value. Be sure to read reviews of contractors as well as window companies. Make sure you’re getting a great warranty with a company that will be around in 20 years. Look for Energy Star ratings and be sure you’re researching the exact window, not just the manufacturer.
Phew! That was a lot of information for one post. Once you’ve decided to go with a vinyl window, be sure to do your research. Vinyl windows offer so much value and longevity and are really a wonderful option for any home. But there is a lot of variety – make sure you’re choosing right. If you need additional help, HRTI‘s professional window consultants would be happy to come to your home. We will provide you with information on all types of windows and help you decide which is right for you. Contact HRTI for more information or to schedule a free appointment for window installation or replacement.
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How to Choose the Best Replacement Window for Your Home
There are so many things to consider when you choose the best replacement window option these days, it’s hard to tell – which one is right for me? It can be confusing…Vinyl? Wood? Fiberglass? Casement? Double-hung? Each homeowner’s needs and preferences are different, luckily there are a lot of choices out there and with enough education and guidance the perfect window can be found and installed.
Questions to Ask To Choose the Best Replacement Windows
There are a few questions we ask our homeowners at the beginning of every meeting. Why are you looking to replace your windows? (Have the seals broken? Are your windows no longer providing insulation from the elements? Are you looking for more energy efficiency and cost savings on your energy bills? Are you looking to update the look of your home?) Do you have any city or HOA requirements that narrow your choices of window? And, What is your budget?
Today’s windows are manufactured using 1 of 3 main materials. Vinyl, Fiberglass, and Wood. All 3 materials can be manufactured with the same glass packs – providing similar energy efficiency, glass thickness and UV protection. So, it’s not the glass that will make your decision, but the material of the frame.
Vinyl windows are the most cost effective option of the 3. The way most vinyl is manufactured today allows for a virtually maintenance-free product. They come in a wide variety of colors and styles and never need to be repainted. Vinyl windows stand up well to severe weather and temperature changes and won’t warp, peel, or chip, making this product a wonderful choice in mild regions as well as regions with more extreme weather. Most manufacturers offer great warranties, extending to the lifetime of your home and transferring to the next owner of your home. Vinyl windows can also be manufactured in a wide variety of custom shapes and color options allowing for the most flexibility. Visit our types of windows page to learn more about the different styles of windows.
Fiberglass windows are quickly gaining in popularity. Like vinyl, fiberglass windows have high energy efficiency ratings and require little to no maintenance. Fiberglass, by nature, is a stronger and stiffer material than vinyl. This means that the frame of the window can be thinner, allowing for a larger area of glass and larger view. Fiberglass won’t warp, crack or peel and stands up well to severe weather. It can come in a variety of colors and styles and does a fairly good job at mimicking the look of real wood. Fiberglass is more expensive than vinyl but many homeowners today are seeing the benefits.
Wood windows are a premium choice for homeowners who want to add warmth and authenticity to their home and are willing to pay more for it. Wood windows can be manufactured to look like a piece of furniture in your home and can be painted or stained any color you can find. Many wood windows today are aluminum-clad on their exterior. This is especially useful in regions with severe weather and temperature fluctuations – you still get the beauty and warmth on the inside of your home, but your windows are protected from warping, cracking, and peeling on the outside. Maintenance on wood windows is more intense than vinyl and fiberglass. They need to be repainted or resealed often to protect the wood from cracking and warping. Wood windows also come in a wide variety of styles and options. As with vinyl and fiberglass, you can order your windows to be double-hung, casement, picture, etc. There are also fun options like adding blinds to the inside of your window. Imagine never dusting your blinds again!
No matter which material you choose, you can be guaranteed an energy efficient, beautiful window that will last for many years. Our experienced HRTI window consultants are always available to help you wade through the options and choose the best replacement window for your home. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
