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Is Your Home Ready for the Holidays?

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By Gates Dearen

With Christmas and New Year’s right around the corner, I thought I’d take the time to help you find out if your home is ready for the holidays. While we Floridians don’t spend a lot of time dashing through the snow, the weather can turn downright nippy during the winter months. As I write this blog, the high is 50 and the low tonight will be just above freezing. While that’s nothing to all you who moved here from places like Chicago or Minneapolis, every Floridian will notice a difference in their next electric bill as we make the transition from autumn to winter.

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By Gates Dearen

With hurricane season in full swing, many people are considering the replacement of their old, outdated windows. In the heat of the summer, folks also get tired of paying sky-high utility bills caused by worn out windows that make your air conditioner run nearly. Whatever the motivation, once you’ve made the decision to upgrade your windows, you might wonder about the process of having your old windows removed and new windows installed entails.

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By Gates Dearen

With winter being just around the corner, I thought I would take the time to tell you what you need to do to keep Jack Frost at bay. When it comes to keeping your home warm and snug when it’s cold outside, your home’s first line of defense is its windows. That being said, if your house was built 20 or more years ago, this is also the place that is the path of least resistance for winter to get an icy grip.

Windows are not like wine. They don’t improve with age. As the years go by, the environment takes its toll on windows. Everything from windowpanes to sills and weather stripping slowly but surely gets eroded by wind and weather. If you find that you frequently need to apply paint, putty, and caulk to keep out drafts, it’s time to think about replacing your windows.

Hot Weather is Coming: Is your house ready to beat the heat?

by Gates Dearen

After the Winter, when people no longer need to run their AC unit so much to heat their homes, many start thinking about how to reduce their energy consumption through the Summer months. Nobody wants to spend more on energy than they have to. Along with the AC unit, windows and doors are key components for keeping a home cool. Spring is a good time of year to check them out to see if they need cleaning or repairs, or to determine if they need to be replaced.

How to find a window and door contractor you can trust.

by Gates Dearen

Satisfied HomeRite Windows
and Doors Customers

Someday, after you’ve thought about getting replacement windows and doors for a while, you’ll probably decide that it’s time to move forward. You have a good idea of what you want and you also have an idea of how much you have in the budget for this home improvement. The next thing to think about is how to find a good contractor.

A company’s reputation is one of the things most people take into consideration when selecting a contractor of any kind. Most people want to deal with a company that has been in business for a substantial period of time. A company that opened three weeks ago may turn out to be very successful with a great reputation in a year or two. However, customers are usually skeptical of companies that haven’t been around for very long. Most people realize that when a company has been around for a while, it’s probably because they’re good at what they do.

Windows by HomeRite

With the temperatures cooling, one of the nice things about this time of year is being able to open the windows and feel a nice breeze wafting through the house. However, sometimes when you want to open the windows, it’s difficult. Likewise, when you want to close the windows to keep the rain or the wind out, they might stick a little bit. As a rule, windows should open and close easily.

One of the keys to having an energy efficient home is to have windows and doors that seal the house properly. This enables homeowners to keep cold air out in the winter and hot air out in the summer. Fall is a great time of the year to check your windows and doors to make sure they’re functioning properly. If you’ve been thinking at all about getting replacement windows or a new door for your entryway, this is a very good time of year to look into that as well.

Here are some of the things to look for when inspecting your windows and doors:

Check window sills and tracks for dirt and other debris. Open the windows and clean out the area with a soft brush or a damp rag. Debris can keep the window from closing all the way. This can create a gap that will allow cold air to come in. If you have sliding patio doors or windows that slide horizontally, clean out those tracks as well. A small twig or pebble can keep them from closing all the way. Your windows and doors will slide more easily after removing any debris.

Windows by HomeRite

Check the weather stripping around doors. If it has come loose in places, re-attach it. Replace any pieces that are ripped or torn. Also, weather stripping can flatten out over time. If that happens, it will not properly close gaps where cold air can come in. In that case, the old weather stripping may need to be replaced. The gaps around doors should be even all the way around. If they are not even, it could be difficult to seal them to eliminate any drafts.

Open and close the locking mechanisms on the windows and make adjustments if they seem loose or they don’t operate smoothly. In addition to keeping potential intruders out, locks also seal the windows and save you money on heating and cooling costs. A proper seal helps to keep out cold air, rain, wind, and even insects. Most new windows have locks that can be adjusted. Some older windows can’t be adjusted at all.

If your windows have any weep holes and breather holes, take a look at them and clean them if necessary. Weep holes allow excess moisture to escape. Breather holes allow an air exchange within certain window components.

Check sealants and caulking on and around windows, inside and out. After years of expanding and contracting, caulk and sealants can become brittle or even develop cracks which allow cold air to enter the home. If you’ve had your windows long enough for this to happen, it may be time to look into getting replacements.

Windows by HomeRite

If you live near the beach, rinse and wipe the exterior metal components of windows and doors. This will minimize corrosion from salt in the air. If you live near the beach, you might want to do this task quarterly.

Unfortunately, some windows can’t be repaired sufficiently to seal them against the winter weather. Some windows are just too outdated and worn to be fixed. They simply will not keep the cold air out. For example, aluminum windows with a single pane of glass were very popular in Jacksonville in the last century. There are still lots of homes in Jacksonville with that style of window. When those old windows get loose in the frames, there’s no way to get a proper seal to keep the cold air out. When those windows go bad, they act more like vents than windows. They may slow the flow of cold air down, but they can’t stop it. The only way to get a good seal again is to replace them.

An old aluminum window.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “If your home has very old and/or inefficient windows, it might be more cost-effective to replace them than to try to improve their energy efficiency. New, energy-efficient windows eventually pay for themselves through lower heating and cooling costs, and sometimes even lighting costs. When properly selected and installed, energy-efficient windows can help minimize your heating, cooling, and lighting costs. Improving window performance in your home involves design, selection, and installation.”

Replacement window by HomeRite

The windows that are now being sold are much more energy efficient than windows that were available twenty or more years ago. Many windows currently on the market have two or even three panes of glass. The air between the panes provides a layer of insulation. Windows with insulating foam in the frames and Argon gas are also available now. These provide superior energy-efficiency. The great thing about replacement windows is that they start paying for themselves as soon as they are installed, in the form of energy savings.

Vinyl Single Hung Windows

Vinyl Single hung windows operate vertically. The sash weight is offset by a counterbalancing mechanism mounted in the window. The vinyl single hung window features a stationary top and a movable bottom half. One or more locking devices are furnished to secure the sash in the closed position. Vinyl windows are available with double panes or triple panes for added energy efficiency.

Vinyl Double Hung Windows

Vinyl double hung windows have an upper (outside) sash that slides down, and a lower (inside) sash that slides up. Both the upper and lower halves can be slid up and down. Vinyl double hung windows are among the most popular on the market. HomeRite’s double hung windows normally have a counter balance mechanism to hold the sash in place.

For more information about HomeRite’s energy efficient line of windows and doors, call 296-2515 or visit their showroom at 4801 Executive Park Court, Building 200, Suite 207, Jacksonville; FL 32216.

In this article, I’ve outlined several things homeowners can check in regard to their windows and doors to make sure they seal properly. Windows and doors that don’t seal properly allow air to come in – cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer. This reduces the energy efficiency of a home.

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HomeRite is a window and door dealer that specializes in energy efficient, quality windows with warranties and service to match. The company has been in business since 1979. HomeRite has partnered with a manufacturer that has been producing high quality products and providing excellent customer service for over 60 years. Windows and doors from HomeRite are some of the highest quality, most thermally efficient windows and doors on the market.

HomeRite products add substantial value to their clients’ properties. HomeRite is a member of the United States Green Building Council, a non-profit organization comprised of leaders across the industry working to advance environmentally responsible buildings.

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. He and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. They strive to match homeowners with the right windows and doors for their homes and budgets. They make the home improvement process pleasant with first-rate, energy-efficient products, affordable pricing, and award-wining installers who employ the best practices and who always treat customers and their property with the utmost respect.

When Good Windows Go Bad

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By Gates Dearen

Drive through any neighborhood in Northeast Florida built before 2000 and you’ll probably see windows that are outdated, unattractive, and provide poor energy efficiency. For example, many homes built more than fifteen years ago featured single-pane windows with aluminum frames. They once were state-of-the-art, but they’re not anymore. Another popular style from the last century was jalousie windows with glass louvers. There are also many old casement windows which no longer close all the way.

Four Ways to Determine Whether it’s Time for New Windows

1. Take a good look from outside. Along with the condition of the lawn and the paint or siding, the windows are one of the most important contributors to the curb appeal of any house. Windows can enhance the appearance of a home or they can detract from it and make the home look run-down. The difference between houses that have modern windows and those that do not is very obvious.

2. Take a look inside. If you consistently see moisture on the inside of your windows, it’s an indication that your windows need to be replaced. In addition, old windows don’t provide protection

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from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. This can result in fading in carpets, rugs, and furniture. Upgrading to more energy efficient windows can reduce this type of fading and extend the life of household items.

3. Check for drafts. During the winter months, it’s very easy to feel cold air coming in through old windows. When it gets hot out and the AC is running, check outside around old windows to see if cold air is seeping out of the house, along with your hard-earned money.

4. Open and close the windows. This should be easy with windows that are operating correctly. There should be no sticking. If the windows rattle when you open and close them, they have probably loosened up over the years. Windows that no longer seal properly allow air to pass through like vents to the outdoors. Also, the locks should open and close easily. If they don’t open easily, you probably won’t use the windows for ventilation very often. If they don’t lock easily, that could create a security problem for you and your family.

Energy Efficiency

Courtesy of commons.wikimedia.org

One of the primary reasons for updating windows is to improve energy efficiency. Old windows that don’t seal properly cost homeowners money on their electric bills. With the high cost of electricity, nobody wants an electric bill that’s higher than it has to be.

New windows can dramatically improve the energy efficiency of a home. Modern windows pay for themselves over time through savings on electric bills. Also, windows that keep the cold air in during the summer and out during the winter reduce wear and tear on a home’s AC and heating system. Those systems are very expensive to repair and replace. When they don’t have to run as much, they last longer.

Modern Windows

Courtesy of HomeRiteJacksonville.com

Window design has improved a great deal over the past few decades. The materials used and the overall quality of windows is better than ever. Double-pane windows are now the norm in replacement windows and they are far more effective for insulating a house from the elements than antiquated single-pane windows.

Aluminum was popular for a long time and excellent windows are still being made with aluminum. On the other hand, vinyl has become the material of choice for many installations. One of the nicest things about new vinyl and aluminum windows is that they don’t require a lot of maintenance. They don’t need to be painted year after year to maintain a beautiful appearance.

Wind Protection

Jacksonville hasn’t had a direct hit from a hurricane since Dora in 1964. On the other hand, residents

Courtesy of HomeRiteJacksonville.com

of Northeast Florida encounter tropical storm force winds with alarming frequency. New windows that comply with current construction codes provide far better protection from high winds than windows built into many homes in decades gone by. For extra protection from high wind and debris, impact windows with strengthening material between the panes of glass are very effective. The cost differential for many people is well worth it versus the expense of repairing the damage caused by a storm flooding your home.

Noise Reduction

In addition to reducing energy costs and improving the appearance of a home, new windows can reduce the levels of noise from outside. Upgraded windows keep unwanted sound out as well as the weather. If noise from street traffic or the neighborhood children is bothersome, new windows can make an enormous difference. The peace and quiet some homeowners experience after installing updated windows is often a very pleasant surprise.

Select the Right Windows

There are more choices in windows now than ever before. Options include aluminum and vinyl, single-hung windows, double-hung windows, casement windows, and specialty windows. The possibilities aren’t endless, but they can be challenging to sort out. A professional window contractor will help homeowners select windows that will make any home more attractive and energy efficient.

Measurements are one of the keys to a good installation. Windows that don’t fit the openings properly may be prone to warping when the weather changes. Another important factor for a successful installation is trained and experienced installers. HomeRite Windows and Doors will get the measurements right and will install the windows correctly so that they fit perfectly, operate smoothly, and look beautiful.

In this article, I have provided some of the key things to help you determine if it’s time to replace their windows. It is an investment that can pay off in energy saving and add beauty, value and comfort to their home.

Here are some related article you may want to also read. Small Windows That Make a Big Statement, How Do You Check for a Leaky House? and Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal.

If you would like to receive an official factory authorized 30% discount coupon for your next window replacement purchase, print out this article with the coupon on it and bring it with you when visiting HomeRite.

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. They know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. Their approach is somewhat different than others. They strive to match the homeowner with the right windows and doors for their home and budget. They know that some home improvement projects can be a hassle. They strive to make the process pleasant with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; and expert, award-wining installers that employ the best practices and who respect your home as if it were their own.

Related articles

Window Maintenance 101: Three Ways to Keep Your Windows Looking and Functioning Their Best

By Gates Dearen

Fall is a great time to do a thorough check of your home’s windows and frames to assess their appearance and functionality. Even if your windows have been replaced in the last few years, it’s a good idea to do a cleaning and a quick survey of the frames and caulking. If you have drafty windows, now is a good time to address that. Despite the fact that the weather in our area isn’t extremely cold in winter, a windy day with temperatures in the fifties can feel a lot colder if your windows aren’t properly sealed and are letting air in. Additionally, poorly sealed windows can cause your energy costs to skyrocket. Here are a few simple ways to make sure your windows are airtight, as well as some tips for good window maintenance.

Clean

This is one of those occasions when you will be glad you recently replaced your windows – or when you might decide it’s a good time to do so! Vinyl window frames require only a wipe-down once or twice a year. Use a mild detergent solution and a clean cloth, or hose them off. For higher windows, the latter is a better option. Not only is it easier and safer to just spray them with the hose, but higher-level windows – on your home’s second floor, for example – probably won’t be as dirty as the lower ones. Lower windows, being closer to the ground, tend to get splashed on when we have hard rains. Never use a pressure washer on or around windows; it’s unnecessary and could break the windows. If you have older windows, especially those with wooden frames, you can use the same cleaning method as for vinyl frames, but if the frames are chipped or exceedingly dirty, you might also need to apply a new coat of paint. When cleaning your windows and frames, don’t neglect the sill and the tracks. Dirt and dust tend to accumulate in those places and can cause problems over time.

For the windows themselves, you can give them a good inside and outside cleaning with a commercial spray cleaner and paper towels. Interestingly, the less expensive paper towels work best for this, as they have fewer fibers and leave less lint, or you can make your own from common household ingredients. For lightly soiled windows, put a tablespoon of white vinegar into a one-quart spray bottle. Fill the bottle with water. Older generations swore that this mixture, sprayed on and wiped off with newspapers, was the best formula for clean windows. Of course, you can wipe with paper towels instead. For heavily soiled windows, you need a stronger brew: mix a half-cup sudsy ammonia, two cups rubbing alcohol, and one teaspoon of dish detergent with a gallon of water. Wipe with newspapers or paper towels. Your windows will shine like never before!

Silicone caulk can be used as a basic sealant against water and air penetration. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Assess

There are a few ways to make sure your windows are airtight. Some are more obvious, holding your hand near the window to see if there is a change in air temperature, for example. Movement of windows is also a good indicator that air is going in and out. If your windows rattle when the wind blows, they’re probably leaking. Check out our previous article, “How Do You Check for a Leaky House” and http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/detecting-air-leaks for other tips on finding air leaks and for other energy-saving strategies. If you find a leak, sometimes it’s an easy fix. Check the weather stripping and caulk to make sure they are in good repair. If the weather stripping is damaged, you should replace it or have it replaced by a professional. If you have gaps in the caulk between the wall and the window casing, you can fill them yourself. Remember to apply caulk sparingly with a steady hand. If your weather stripping fits snugly and the caulk seems to be in good shape (no gaps or cracks) then the problem is with your windows themselves. This is an indication that it’s time to replace your windows.

Maintain

As with anything else, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to window maintenance. Regular upkeep prevents small issues from becoming big, expensive ones. It’s a good idea to perform the cleaning and assessment we mentioned above twice a year, on whatever schedule works best for you. Fall and spring are generally good times to plan these maintenance tasks, as we are between the two weather extremes. New windows will require less maintenance to keep looking great, and will also negate the need to constantly check for drafts. New vinyl windows in particular are virtually maintenance free, necessitating only a quick wipe or rinse of the frames. Whichever types of windows you have, it’s important to keep all moving parts properly lubricated. You can do this by spraying on a small amount of oil spray or silicone spray, waiting a few moments, and then working the moving part a bit to make sure the lubricant gets into the parts to keep them moving well. Don’t forget to check that all locks are moving freely; if they aren’t, apply the same lubrication process to them as well.

If you have older windows with wood frames, these twice-a-year maintenance times might be more difficult. If your window frames are peeling or chipping, include scraping and painting as part of your semi-annual window check. If any of the wood has rotted, it will need to be filled or replaced before the problem gets worse. These tasks can be cumbersome, but they’re necessary to keep your windows airtight and you home looking good.

Clean and well-maintained windows are an asset to your home’s appearance and comfort. Keep in mind that the better the windows, the lower the need for maintenance – and vice versa. High-quality windows allow you spend less time on maintenance, and more time enjoying your home.

In this article we’ve discussed the three most important ways to keep your windows looking and working their best. We gave tips for cleaning your windows, checking them for leaks and damage, and maintaining
them.

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. They know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. Their approach is a somewhat different than others. They strive to match the homeowner with the right windows and doors for their home and budget. They know that home improvements projects can be a hassle. They strive to make the process pleasant with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; and expert, award-wining installers that employ the best practices and who respect your home as if it were their own.

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Is Your Home Ready for the Holidays?

The Ins & Outs of Replacement Window Installation

How New Windows Can Make Winter a Pleasure

Hot Weather is Coming: Is your house ready to beat the heat?

How to find a window and door contractor you can trust.

Best tips for energy savings during the winter months

When Good Windows Go Bad

Window Maintenance 101: Three Ways to Keep Your Windows Looking and Functioning Their Best