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.
This blog is sponsored by HomeRite Windows and Doors. We have 25 years of experience in helping select the right new windows or choose the proper replacement windows and doors for their homes. Let us help you.
How to find a window and door contractor you can trust.
by Gates Dearen
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.
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| Satisfied HomeRite Windows and Doors Customers |
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.
Distinguish your home and enhance the curb appeal
by Gates Dearen
Add distinctive style and increase the
value of your home.
“Almost
no other part of your home gets as much exposure as the front door. It’s where
you greet friends and family, serve (or scare) trick-or-treaters, and enjoy the
songs of holiday carolers. A front door says a lot about who lives inside.” Bob
Villa
Entry
doors are the most significant element for the curb appeal of most homes. A new
front door can instantly enhance the appearance of a home. It can also
significantly increase resale value. In fact, it’s one of the few home projects
that can add more value to the home than the cost of the project.
The ABC of Low-E Windows and Doors
by Gates Dearen
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| A recent HomeRite project |
If you’ve looked into
getting replacement windows lately, you’ve probably run into some terminology
you’re not familiar with. For example, one phrase that you’re almost certain to
run into is “Low-e.” Just what does the “e” stand for? Emissivity. It’s not a
word most people use or hear very often. Here’s a definition from the
Merriam-Webster dictionary.
Emissivity: the
relative power of a surface to emit heat by radiation, the ratio of the
radiant energy emitted by a surface to that emitted by a black body at the same
temperature.
Seven Benefits of Replacement Windows
Replacing the windows is not
always the highest priority on a homeowner’s to do list, even when it’s clear
that the windows need to be replaced. The windows could be sticking. Wooden
window sills could be rotting. There could be consistent drafts.
Still, if the windows aren’t
actually broken, replacing them can be put off. The reasoning is that replacing
windows costs money. However, there’s also a price to pay for not replacing old
windows. If you’ve been looking at your windows and thinking that you need to
do something about them, here are a few of the most popular reasons to move
forward.
Best tips for energy savings during the winter months
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.”
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| 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.
HomeRite Windows and Doors at the Jacksonville Home & Patio Show
A One-stop Shop for Renovating, Remodeling, and Decorating Ideas
by Gates Dearen
HomeRite
Windows and Doors is excited to be exhibiting in the Jacksonville Home and
Patio Show coming up on Thursday, October 1st, through Sunday,
October 4th, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center in downtown
Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Home and Patio Show will feature fantastic
exhibits and high-profile industry personalities. If you’re planning a home
improvement project of any kind, or if you’re in the middle of one, you won’t
want to miss this event. HomeRite will be in Booth # 221.
The Home and
Patio Show is a great opportunity to get a fresh perspective on all your
remodeling, home improvements, outdoor, and design needs. Hundreds of experts will
be there under one roof. This is your chance to see products from lots of
manufacturers without driving all over town. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity
to meet the business owners and contractors.
The
categories of businesses exhibiting include all of the following: Kitchen and
Bathroom Remodelers, Solar Power Contractors, Furniture Retailers, Security
Systems, Siding Contractors, Window Treatments, Electrical Contractors, HVAC Contractors,
Pest Control, Pools and Spas, Landscapers, Painters, Water Purification
Systems, Fencing, Roofing Contractors, and many more.
HomeRite Windows and Doors - Live at the Home and Patio Show
If you’re
thinking of upgrading your windows or improving your curb appeal by putting in
a beautiful, energy efficient entryway door, HomeRite will be at the Home and
Patio Show to show their products and to answer any questions you may have.
Gates
Dearen and Richard Walden, the co-owners of HomeRite Jacksonville, have been
serving the building products industry in Florida for over three decades. They
know the products, the industry, the market and what will add great value to
your home.
HomeRite’s
approach is different from most contractors. “We’re simply looking to match you
with the right windows and doors for your home and your budget,” they say. “Home
improvements are enough of a hassle. We’re here to make your life easier with
first-rate, energy-efficient products at affordable prices. Our award-winning installers
are top-notch as well.”
Matt Muenster of Bath Crashers on the DIY Network
Matt will appear on the Fresh Ideas Stage on Friday at 6:00 pm, Saturday at
1:00 pm & 5:00 pm and on Sunday at noon. Matt sees every house project, whether he’s ripping
apart dated bathrooms using the latest construction technology or completely
gutting his own kitchen, as a chance to use his clever ideas to achieve great
design while integrating earth-friendly elements. His professional experience
includes high-end interior design, and he gets an adrenaline rush every time he
transforms a boring bathroom into a fantastic one on DIY Network’s “Bath
Crashers.”
Leanne Lee, the Diva of DIY
Leanne will appear on the Fresh Ideas Stage on Friday at 4:00 pm, on
Saturday at Noon and 4:00 pm, and on Sunday at Noon. She hosts the DIY Network's Diva of DIY
segment. Earlier this year, she was named the 2015 Home and Garden Trendsetter
of the Year. She runs a decorative painting and cabinet refinishing business
called Rekindled Spaces. She also has a successful blog informing others how to
upcycle through step-by-step instruction and video tutorials.
Fresh Ideas Stage
There will
be presentations throughout the day for all four days of the Home and Patio
Show. The stage presentations by local and national experts will cover topics
pertaining to remodeling, renovation, décor, fall gardening and outdoor
projects.
Tony Hogg of
the Florida Beekeepers Association will speak on the Basics of Backyard
Beekeeping.
Britt Miller
of Salty Restorations will present a step-by-step guide to Refinishing
Furniture.
Christy
McCarthy of Interiors Revitalized will discuss Designing for Resale.
Pat Shanley
of the American Rose Society will speak on New Roses for American gardeners.
Jacksonville Magazine Cooking Stage
Local chefs from
some of the finest restaurants in Northeast Florida will be performing live
cooking demonstrations and offering samples of great recipes throughout the
weekend.
The
restaurants represented include: 29 South, Gilbert’s Underground, Café Nola,
Brew 5 Points, Tapa That, 13 Gypsies, Conscious Eats, Corner Taco, and Soul
Food Bistro. There will also be a Cake
Diva competition on Sunday afternoon. Yum, yum.
Home and Patio Show Notes
Tickets can
be purchased online to save time, avoid lines, and to save $2 per adult ticket.
Tickets can also be purchased at the box office.
Celebrity
performances are included in the price of admission. However, there is no
reserved seating.
Depending on
your itinerary, goals and objectives, you should probably plan on spending two
to four hours - or more - at the event.
No outside
food or beverages are allowed. Concessions will be available for snacks and
beverages.
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In this
article, I’ve informed readers that HomeRite Jacksonville will be exhibiting at
the Jacksonville Home and Patio Show. The HomeRite booth is number 221. I’ve
discussed several reasons why homeowners would want to attend the event, and
I’ve also noted some of the main attractions at the event, including Matt
Muenster and Leanne Lee of the DIY Network.
HomeRite is
a window and door dealer that specializes in energy efficient, quality windows
with warranties and service to match. HomeRite was founded by Richard Walden
and Gates Dearen. Richard opened the doors in 1979 and welcomed Gates onboard
in 1981. During their thirty-plus years of business, they have garnered a loyal
following of customers. “We couldn’t be more appreciative, and we thank them
for their trust and confidence in recommending us to their friends and
families.”
HomeRite has
partnered with a family owned manufacturer that has been in business for over
60 years. The window and door industry has changed a great deal and HomeRite’s manufacturer
has stayed at the forefront of those changes through state-of-the-art design, high
quality products, and excellent customer service.
HomeRite
products are energy-efficient, and they add substantial value to their client’s
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.
You’re
invited to stop by booth 221 at the Home and Patio Show to meet the staff of
HomeRite Windows and Doors of Jacksonville. They’ll be happy to answer any
questions you have about windows and doors.
If you can’t
make it, you can learn more about HomeRite and their superior products by
calling 296-2515 or visiting their showroom at 4801 Executive Park Court,
Building 200, Suite 207, Jacksonville; FL 32216.
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 treat
customers and their property with the utmost respect.
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