Learn about New Windows or Replacement Windows and Doors for Today's Homes

Six Tips for Choosing Vinyl Windows

By Gates Dearen

Congratulations! You’ve made the wise decision to purchase vinyl windows. Vinyl frames are superior to wood and metal in many ways: They won’t pit, chip, rot, flake, or crack; they don’t require constant painting; they are more energy-efficient, keeping cold and heat out (or, alternately, in); and they are attractive. Just an occasional washing keeps them looking like new. But with so many options out there, how do you know what to look for?

Prepare

If you plan to install your own windows, keep in mind that it can be tricky. Unless you are experienced in installation, you will likely find that it’s a rather unwieldy task. With large windows in particular, the risk of dropping and breaking a window is substantial. If you leave it to the experts, not only will they get the job finished much more quickly and efficiently, but if a window is broken in the process, they will replace it at no cost to you. Whether you choose to install your own windows or leave it to the experts, here are some tips that can make it as “pane-less” as possible.

· Measure – twice. Determine your window needs based on the size and location of the windows. For example, let’s say that most of the windows in your house face west. Since the sun comes in from that direction most of the day, the windows on that side need to be especially efficient to keep the house from getting too hot in the summer.

Budget (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Budget

After you know the sizes of the windows you need to purchase, decide what your total budget is for the project. In addition to the variety of window sizes, there are also many other options. Generally the higher priced windows are going to be more energy efficient. Keep in mind that this is an investment that will pay off in energy savings and peace of mind. If you’re on a tight budget, you might consider

replacing only some of your windows now and some later, making it possible to buy higher-quality windows, rather than buying cheaper windows for your entire home all at once.

Shop and Compare

Look for this logo when considering your
new roofing materials (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Once you’ve established your budget, and you know the sizes of the windows you need, it’s time to find the right windows. Now you want to compare energy ratings, wind and rain resistance, warranties, and window features. The ratings can be hard to understand. Do your homework and make sure you understand the differences before you shop. Get a sense of what the ratings mean and why they are important.

· Energy efficiency: The Energy Star label is one indicator. Also compare the U-value of the windows. The lower the U-value, the more energy efficient the window. A U-value of 0.35 or below is typically considered a good level. Also look at the R-factor of each window option, which indicates how insulated it is. More insulation translates into more energy efficiency for your home. Look for a high R-factor; the higher the number, the more energy efficient the window. For best insulation, choose multi-paned windows with argon gas between the panes, and with an E-coating. These features ensure maximum weather protection and comfort. In Florida and other southern states, it’s also important to look at the solar coefficient, a measure of how well the window keeps out heat while letting in light.

Our glass warranty.

· Wind and rain resistance: If you live in an area that is prone to high winds and/or damaging rain, you’ll want to be sure that your windows are made for such a climate. It’s important to investigate the quality of not just the glass but also the frames of any windows you’re considering

· Warranties: Compare both manufacturer and seller warranties. Up-front savings won’t save you much if the product doesn’t have a repair or replacement warranty. Read the warranty carefully so you won’t have any surprises in the event that you need replacement or repair of your windows. In addition, it’s a good idea to read customer reviews and testimonials. Find a company with satisfied customers.

Our windows have a Lifetime Warranty

· Window features: The features you choose are largely a matter of personal taste, unless you have children, in which case safety is also important. Work with a professional to decide which features will increase your comfort and your windows’ function and durability. Single-hung windows open from the bottom only. Double-hung windows can open from the top or the bottom. Again, it’s all about preference. If you want to transform a simple opening into a stunning room accent, you can choose from a variety of custom shapes for your windows.

Choosing vinyl windows may seem like a daunting task, but with a little research and some help from a professional, you will find the windows that work best for your home and your lifestyle. A variety of options allows you to add your own personal flair, especially if you go for a custom window. Whichever features you choose, vinyl windows are a great investment in energy savings and comfort.

In this article I talked about how to choose vinyl windows. I offered six tips for making the selection process less difficult: measuring, budgeting, and four aspects of shopping and comparing energy efficiency, wind and rain resistance, warranties, and window features. . If you have a comment about this article, please feel free to post it below. Also, if you found this article useful, please pass it on.

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Gates Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. We know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. Our approach is a little different. We strive to match the homeowner with the right windows for their home and budget. Home improvements can be a hassle. We’re here to make life easier with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; strong warranties and expert, award-winning installers that provide excellent service while respecting your home as if it were their own.

Related articles

Hurricanes are Coming: Understand the Importance of Impact-Resistant Glass

English: Geraldo Rivera at a Hudson
Union Society event in September 2010.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By Gates Dearen

It was Geraldo Rivera, the well-known attorney, journalist, author, reporter and talk show host who once offered some great advice, especially for Florida homeowners, “Mother Nature may be forgiving this year, or next year, but eventually she’s going to come around and whack you. You’ve got to be prepared.”

The 2014 hurricane season begins in just three months and one of the best steps homeowners can do to be prepared for Florida’s thunderstorms, tornadoes and our notorious hurricanes, is to install high-quality, impact-resistant glass for their home windows.

There are several main differences between standard glass (single glazed pane), and an impact-resistant window. In fact, Florida’s standard/threshold is double that of other areas, which must be met in order for a window to qualify as being impact-resistant.

Impact-resistant windows and doors main design characteristics are their shatter-resistant glass, which is securely fastened to a heavy-duty aluminum frame. The impact-resistant glazing consists of two layers of annealed or tempered glass bonded to an intermediate shatterproof membrane layer. This membrane is typically made of Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB), a plastic film that varies in thickness from .015 to .090 inches, depending on the design pressures needed. Should the outer glass break, the broken pieces adhere to the PVB film. In contrast, standard-glass windows are made of standard float glass that, when broken, fractures into large, sharp shards, many of which fall out of the frame. Some dangle dangerously on the side, like sharks teeth, awaiting unsuspecting prey.

Courtesy of www.engexp.com

For windows or door glass to be considered impact-resistant certified, they must meet the American Society for Testing and Materials’ (ASTM) qualifying standards. One of the most rigorous requirements comes from our own Florida Building Code. It takes into account the increase in frequency and strength of hurricanes in recent years. These standards incorporate many of the lessons learned from previous hurricane-driven disasters. The Florida Building Code, for example, requires that every exterior opening in a structure be protected against wind-borne debris. This protection can be accomplished by either installing impact-resistant windows or storm shutters, which I’ll discuss in another blog.

To be certified as impact-resistant, windows must pass several tests. Keep in mind, unlike bulletproof windows, the glass is expected to break. However, to be classified as impact-resistant, the pane shouldn’t shatter nor should it get pushed out of its frame. Generally, all impact-resistant glass must pass the following tests:

· Launch Missile Impact Test. No, it’s not an explosive projectile screeching into your home. But almost. Here, a six-foot, nine-pound 2x4 wood stud is fired from a cannon at 80 feet per second (fps), at nearly 35 miles per hour, towards the center of the window. (FYI, most other states’ tests are at 50 fps.) If the window doesn't shatter, another board is shot at one of the window’s corners. Both the center and the corner of the window must be able to hold together to pass this test. There is also a small missile test, which subjects the window to a variety of impacts from 30 pieces of roof gravel at the same speed. Again, the window must pass the test in order be certified “impact-resistant.”

Following the Launch Missile Impact Test, the window is subsequently subjected to air pressures that simulate winds of up to 200 miles per hour. If the window remains intact within the frame, it can be certified as an impact-resistant window. NOTE: Making landfall near New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina was a Category 4 storm with gusts topping 140 miles an hour. When it slammed into Florida, Hurricane Andrew was a Category 5 storm, punching winds of 165 M.P.H.!

Hurricane Katrina making its second landfall in Louisiana,
as seen by NWS New Orleans radar. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

To learn whether a product is considered impact-resistant, ask your window dealer for a copy of its Notice of Acceptance (NOA) issued by your county of residence. The NOA certifies whether or not the product has passed the impact-resistant test.

As I said earlier, the advantages of installing impact-resistant windows are several-fold. In addition to keeping you and your loved ones safe, your home protected and, as well, your post-storm repair bills lower, impact-resistant windows allow you to obtain insurance premium discounts. Keep in mind, to qualify for these discounts or credits, all of your house’s openings must be protected. Concerning residential property insurance, Florida statute 627.0629 stipulates all insurance companies providing homeowner's insurance to the state’s residents must offer some type of discount for dwellings that have effective windstorm protection. If you have questions, you should contact your home insurance agent to ensure you receive proper credit for any steps you’ve taken to strengthen your home.

Impact-Resistant Means More Positive Impacts

Just because they’re strong enough to stop a wood 2x4 at 200 m.p.h., doesn’t mean your windows have to look bulky or unattractive. Impact-resistant windows are available in wide variety of color tints, including bronze, green, gray and blue. The window frames also can come in a variety of vinyl colors.

And even if there aren’t any imminent storms brewing, it doesn’t mean your home is immune to negative impacts from the outdoors. Consider long-term ultraviolet (UV) damage, for example, which can fade furniture, carpets and furnishings. Impact-resistant windows can also provide your home with increased ultraviolet protection. The lower the percentage, the more UV rays are being blocked. So a 0% UV value equals 100% blockage. For the best protection, gray and bronze tinted impact-resistant windows are best.

Impact-resistant Windows from HomeRite

Impact-resistant windows have also been proven to help with your energy savings. Scientists use the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which represents the amount of heat going into a house. Florida, with its nearly six months of 80+ degree temperatures, has a lot of heat. The lower the SHGC number, the less heat penetrates into the house. Hurricane impact-resistant windows or doors with clear glass feature SHGC’s of 0.72, while bronze and gray glass hold a 0.55 and 0.56 SHGC value, respectively. The less heat seeping into your house, the higher you can set your thermostat, thus saving you money on A/C bills.

Due to the PVB film inside all impact-resistant windows, studies have found they’re much harder to break in to; therefore they act as a deterrent to would-be burglaries. In fact, fire personnel have special tools made especially for gaining inside access through impact-resistant glass. While not impossible to penetrate, it does take a would-be burglar more time to try to breach the glass. Obviously, this is ideal for exposing your average burglar because it takes them longer to penetrate the window or door. That’s more time, and noise that your alarm monitors, glass-break sensors or concerned neighbors have to notify the police.

In this article, I talked about the qualities, design and requisite testing of impact-resistant glass. I also mentioned several distinct advantages impact-resistant glass has over regular glass. If you have a comment about this article, please feel free to post it below. Also, if you found this article useful, please pass it on.

Related articles

Warming Up to Spring: Cleaning Tips for Your Windows and Doors

By Gates Dearen

Labor Day Spring Cleaning (Photo credit: BooleanRadley)

When it comes to cleaning your windows and doors, or any major cleaning project such as one’s annual Spring Cleaning, it pays to take heed to the carpenter’s adage: “Measure twice. Cut once.” What do I mean? Ideally, before embarking on your cleaning chores, get properly prepared. Be sure to check your existing cleaning supplies and make a detailed list of the things you need to purchase before getting to work. Basic home cleaning supplies can include an all-purpose cleaner and glass cleaner, natural cleansers such as baking soda and vinegar, and stronger products to tackle tougher tasks such as removing mildew in grout.. You may want to visit your local health or whole foods market, many of which have “Green” cleaning products. And you’ll need a supply of sponges, rags, cloths, towels, scrub brushes, rubber gloves, toothbrushes, squeegees, buckets, aprons, eye protectors, safety ladder, etc. If you like to whistle while you work, make certain your portable music player and/or home system is ready to go. Or just whistle or sing to yourself.

Why do we embark on such multi-phased projects as spring cleaning? We all want and can appreciate a clean home. The windows and doors are especially important, as they are the first thing, and the last thing you see when you leave in the morning and return later in the day. Unless you’re one of those rare persons who enjoy scrubbing away at layers of dirt, many of us approach spring cleaning as a chore with nearly the same dread as configuring taxes. (Hmm, is it a coincidence we have to do both of them around the same time each year?) Personally, I like to think about spring cleaning chores as part of my process of annual renewal. And remember, you’re not alone in your annual quest for clean. For centuries, numerous cultures around the world have had annual spring-cleaning rituals that mimic the cycle of birth and renewal. The bottom line: Spring cleaning can be good for your physical health as well as your emotional well being.

For centuries, numerous world cultures have had annual spring cleaning rituals, some of which precede important spring holidays.

Before I shed light on the subject of how to clean your windows and doors, keep in mind that whenever possible, you want to open up your home to natural lighting and fresh air. In general, most people tend to shut themselves in during the winter. This is less so here in Florida, but none the less, keeping your home buttoned up all winter exposes you and their family to potential pollutants; combustion by-products from stove tops, incense, fireplaces as well as building material chemicals. All of these can lead to adverse health issues. So while you’re in the midst of your spring cleaning tasks, aerate your home by creating cross ventilation channels. Open the windows and doors on opposite sides of your home for about 30 minutes to help replace that stale old air with new fresh air. If your spring time is buggy, leave the screens on your windows. If pollen is a problem, take your medicine or natural remedies in advance, or grab a mask, and/or make your aeration time shorter.

Now roll up your sleeves and let’s get started.

Window Cleaning: No "Pane," No Gain

Spring cleaning (Photo credit: Geir Halvorsen)

Always start with your exterior windowsills and frames first. Begin by brushing them with a soft brush to dislodge dirt and grime. In general, you should always start by dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming away any dirt and dust before you attack it with a wet cloth. Then grab a large sponge with a solution of one part hot water (wear gloves!) and one part white vinegar. I believe it was in the “Farmer’s Almanac” where I first read you shouldn’t clean your exterior windows in direct sunlight. Why? The sun will dry and evaporate the cleaner before you can wipe it away, creating streaks. That said, finish by pulling a squeegee vertically down your window panes in long, overlapping movements. Another way to avoid streaking is to clean windows with vertical strokes on one side and horizontal on the other, which allows you to better see which of the two sides has the streaks, if any, thus avoiding having to repeat the process both inside and out. About that squeegee: If you have very tall windows, you can find models that can take extension handles so you can easily reach the higher parts of your windows. If you have a multi-level home, follow common safety procedures when using your ladder. Before you begin this process on the inside, make certain to lay old towels along the windowsills to catch any drips.

Leading With Blinds

Don’t forget that twice a year, you should wipe your wooden blinds with a few drops of gentle wood cleaner you’ve dabbed onto an almost dry sponge. Wash your aluminum blinds outdoors. It’s best to place them on a surface that slants, and scrub them with water and a noncorrosive cleaner. Use a hose with decent water pressure to rinse well and make certain you dry them thoroughly to prevent rust. Yes you can get drying help from the sun.

Doorways to Havens

Feng shui Luopan compass (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Those of you who read my previous blog about doors, “Do Front Doors Make a Statement About Who You Are?” will recall I cited ancient Chinese Feng Shui (pronounced “fung shway”) concepts about how different colors denote one’s personality and can help bring certain types of opportunities. Did you also know clean exterior doors (and porches) invite positive energy and prosperity into your home? That alone should get you motivated to do your doors.

Just like your windowsills and frames, you first want to remove loose or semi-caked on dirt. Your vacuum cleaner works well here. Simply attach the nozzle and run it around the door trim, frame and, if you have them, along the contoured edges or recesses on the front and inside of the door to remove large debris, cobwebs, those big ol’ dust bunnies stuck in the seams, etc. Now it’s time to clean. Again, if want a good, eco-friendly, affordable cleaner, simply mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, as I mentioned earlier. Open your door and moisten the entire door with the cleaning product or mixture of choice. If you come across some extra tough stains or grease, I’ve found that mineral spirits usually get the job nicely. Follow the instructions on the container and be certain the area is well ventilated. Use your cleaning product of choice to clean your door’s windows and panes, following the instructions above for windows. You can use a squeegee or recycled newspapers to dry them streak free. Don’t forget to clean the little spyhole glass as well. After you’ve done your “wet wiping,” grab a clean cloth or sponge to remove dirt, debris or fingerprints. Just as with your windowsills and frames, you may need a fresh coat of paint or varnish. Time to consider a new look?

One Door, Two Faces (Photo credit: imchaudhry photo)

Forget the Hardware? Hardly!

To create a spectacular shiny look, use a brass or steel polish on your door’s hardware. Follow the directions on the container and make certain you’ve wiped away all the polish when finished.

Voila! You’re done. Take a nice little break, then identify and plan for your next spring cleaning task. Once you’ve finished, you can reward yourself by enjoying a “Green” St. Patty’s Day or attending the numerous festivals and events that spring up during this season.

In this article, I discussed some of the concepts as to why most human cultures engage in some type of spring cleaning. More importantly, I provided effective, easy ways to clean your windows and doors, in most cases using simple, inexpensive products. I’ve also presented some ideas on the benefits of the process and how to get started. If you found this article useful, pass it on to your friends and neighbors. If you have a comment related to this article, please post it in the comment section of this blog. It's been my pleasure informing you about how to spring clean your windows and doors. I look forward to our next visit.

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 real value to a home. Their approach is a little different. They strive to match the homeowner with the right windows and doors for their home and budget. They know home improvements can be a hassle. They aim to provide high-value choices and money saving options with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; and expert, award-winning installation employing the best, time-proven practices with personnel who respect your home as if it were their own.

The Taxman is Coming. Don’t Forget Your Tax Credits

By Gates Dearen

With the holidays, Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day now behind us, one of the big blinking lights on everyone’s calendar is April 15th, income tax day. If you’ve not yet done so, it’s time to start

Tax Day Reminder (Photo credit: SalFalko)

gathering and organizing your W2s, 1099s, receipts, bank statements and other pertinent paperwork. There is good news if you just purchased a home, took out a construction or home improvement loan, or if you just upgraded your home by replacing your old windows and doors with new, energy efficiency models.

But before you sit down to file your taxes online, or work with your accountant, remember that by owning a home, you may qualify for some of the above mentioned tax breaks. In order to reap, you must sow, which means you’re going to have to go through the process of itemizing your taxes to take advantages of the deductions. Potentially time consuming? Yes. A hassle? Perhaps, but once you’ve done it, the benefits are usually worth the time and effort – especially if you replaced your windows, skylights or exterior doors last year. You may be able to help pay for those upgrades by taking advantage of certain tax breaks. You should always seek the advice and counsel of qualified tax accountant or attorney before claiming any deduction. Now that the disclaimer is out of the way, let’s look at ways you can save money.

Home Improvement Loan Interest

You may be able to deduct the interest on a loan you’ve taken out to make improvements on yo

ur home. Qualifying loans are those taken out to add “capital improvements” to your home, which means the

improvement must increase your home’s value, adapt it to new uses, or extend its life. Installing a new

carpet or painting the exterior isn’t considered capital improvements. However — and here’s the good news — installing new windows, skylights and doors are considered capital improvements.

Energy Efficiency (Photo credit: London Permaculture)

Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credits

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 retroactively renews the Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit of 2011. Homeowners can claim a credit of up to 10% or $200 of the purchase price of qualifying windows and 10% up to $500 for qualifying exterior doors. Installation costs are excluded. Windows, doors, and skylights that are eligible for a federal tax credit and must meet these strict criteria:

Windows must be installed between January 1, 2012 and December 13, 2013.
Products must be installed in the homeowner’s primary residence.
Products must meet Energy Star published criteria for the Energy Star Climate Zone in which they are installed.

Furthermore, if you claimed an energy efficiency credit in a previous taxable year, please consult a tax professional or visit www.irs.gov to determine if you’re still eligible.

What Makes a Window, Skylight or Door Energy Star qualified?

These products are manufactured by an Energy Star partner, they’re independently tested and certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), and they meet stringent energy efficient guidelines as defined by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The DOE doesn’t require any specific technologies, yet certain product features are common.

Homeowners can claim a Federal Tax Credit for upgrading their primary residence with energy efficient windows and exterior doors.

It’s important to keep in mind that, just like clothing, some windows and skylights are better at insulating you from the cold, whereas others are better at keeping you cool when outside temperatures are warm. Performance criteria for windows and skylights are based on four climate zones: Northern, North-Central, South-Central, Southern) and ratings that have been certified by the NFRC.

Education Tax Deductions (Photo credit: StockMonkeys.com)

In general, doors provide more insulation than windows or skylights, based upon the amount of glass your exterior doors have, called the “glazing level” and ratings certified by the NFRC.

In addition to claiming a tax credit, if you’ve replaced your windows, skylights or external doors, there are other steps you may take to save money on your taxes. Again, when in doubt, it’s always best to seek the advice of a qualified tax consultant or attorney.

· Construction Loan Interest - If you take out a construction loan to build a home, you may qualify to deduct the interest. The IRS only allows a deduction for mortgage interest if the loan relates to your principal residence or a second vacation home used for personal purposes.
· Home Office - If you use a portion of your home exclusively for the purpose of an office for your (small) business, you may be able to claim a deduction on your taxes for costs related to insurance, repairs and depreciation. If you upgraded your windows and an exterior door associated with your home office, these too may be considered deductions.
· Mortgage Insurance Premiums - You may be able to deduct the premiums paid for private mortgage insurance for your principal residence and for a non-rental second home.
· Mortgage Interest Paid at Settlement - If you’ve bought a new home within the past year, on a mortgage of up to $1 million, you can deduct the interest you pay at settlement if you itemize your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040).
· Points - Did you pay points in order to obtain your home mortgage? These fees are included on the income tax deductions list and can be deducted as long as they are associated with the purchase of a home
· Property Taxes - If they’re based on the assessed value of the real property, you can deduct your state and local property taxes.
· Selling Costs - If you sold a home in the past year, you may be able to reduce your income tax by the amount of your selling costs, which can include title insurance, advertising expenses, broker’s fees, and repairs.

We all know tax codes can be confusing. You may want to consult the IRS’ website for information concerning deductions and credits. To be certain, you should meet with a qualified tax professional to ensure you’re not missing any deductions for which you’re eligible.

In this article, I covered many of the different types of tax breaks the IRS allows for homeowners and individuals and business upgrading their homes and home offices via construction, home improvement loans and energy tax credits. If you found this article useful, pass it on to your friends and neighbors. If you have a comment related to this article, please post it in the Comments section of this blog. It's been my pleasure informing you about these tax breaks. I look forward to our next visit.

Gates Dearen and Richard Walden: Local owners of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. We have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. We know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. Our approach is a little different. We strive to match the homeowner with the right windows for their home and budget. We understand that home improvements can be a hassle. We’re here to make life easier with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; and expert, award-winning installers that employ the best practices and respect your home as if it were their own.

Related articles