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6 Signs You Need to Replace & Upgrade Your Windows ASAP

windows

Your house cannot talk to you if it needs fixing; however, it gives you different signs if something wrong. Your windows are a particularly communicative element of your residence. Although they do not last forever, well-maintained and high-quality windows can last for two decades or even more.

Windows are tough but they aren’t immune to wear and tear or deterioration. Even if you give them the highest level of care, a window replacement or upgrade may still be necessary eventually.

So if your windows are more than a decade years old, you must listen to what they are trying to tell you. This way, you will know when they must be replaced or upgraded. Here are some of the important signs to watch out for.

1. Your energy bill becomes remarkably high

Your windows will provide some heat during the cold months by letting in sunlight. But if you have drafty windows, your energy bills can increase by up to 25 percent.

So it is a must for you to replace and upgrade them and opt for energy-efficient windows. Storm windows, caulking, and weatherstripping can be used to prevent air leakage from outside.

However, you should not assume that all windows are created equal. It is crucial for you to consider your specific needs, especially your location. Consult reputable window specialists in your area to know which types of windows best suit your property.

2. They are broken, damaged or warped

There are instances where repairing windows is more practical than replacing them entirely. If your windows need new hardware or weatherstripping, a repair can be the best option. But for damaged, broken, or warped window frames or sashes, window specialists recommend replacement instead of repair. With repair work, your windows may remain operable but they will surely develop problems sooner.

3. Noise easily penetrates your home interior

Aside from cold air, sound can also penetrate through failing windows.

If you are living in a warm climate, you may notice the noise before you even notice a draft. Most property owners who have invested in new windows claim an increased sense of quietness, which is a major advantage if your home is close to highways or airports or is located in a busy neighborhood.

A double-pane window does well in blocking sounds and offers an added buffer zone between your home’s interior and exterior.

4. It feels drafty

One of the warning signs that your windows need replacement is discomfort. If you feel air coming through a closed window, the seals are already failing.

Remember that slight draft is not a minor issue because it can throw off the temperature indoors, making your HVAC system work harder just to keep up.

Though you may use insulating curtains, weatherstripping, and caulk to stave off heat loss, these are not permanent solutions. The best thing you can do to a drafty window is to replace it.

5. Condensation builds up in between glass panes

If your windows fog up and there is condensation build-up inside their glazings, you are looking at seal failure. Moisture enters the space in between the glass panes if the seals fail.

You may even notice some ice and frost build-up during the colder months. When your window seal is broken, its insulating capacity is extremely compromised. Window replacement is your only option.

6. You have trouble opening or closing windows

Stuck windows are not just an annoyance but are a potential hazard as well. A closed window may refuse to open in case of an emergency while an open window may suddenly slam shut.

If your windows’ open/close mechanisms are poorly functioning, this is a sign that your windows are out of balance. This can leave your home vulnerable to water, air and other particles getting in and out of your property.

By replacing worn-out windows, you can definitely create a more reliable, stronger barrier between you and your home exterior.

A window replacement project can be costly, but it is worth it. New windows can help you save money on your monthly energy bills, and add to your level of comfort at home. You can actually get years of quality service from properly installed windows. If you are lucky, you might not even worry about replacing your windows in the duration of your stay in your house.

However, if you ever need to replace your windows, make sure to have them installed by reputable window manufacturers. This is your best guarantee that your windows will leave you worry-free for decades to come.

AUTHOR BIO

Carmen Velilla is an experienced Brand Manager currently overseeing the strategic development of multiple brands as part of the Epwin Group. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (ACIM), specializing in Corporate Communication and Digital Marketing.

 

Need a New Look? 5 Kitchen Updates that Will Make a Big Difference

Need a New Look 5 Kitchen Updates That Will Make a Big Difference

While you’re preparing meals and serving food in your kitchen, you might begin to look at the dull features that you see on a daily basis. With a little creativity, you can easily transform this busy room of your home to give it a new and refreshing look. Before you start updating, you should have a plan in mind so that you can complete all of the work at one time instead of taking numerous breaks.

Faucets

One of the easiest kitchen remodeling updates that you can perform is to change the faucets. While you’re changing them to a design that is a bit more modern, consider a few of the smart technologies that are available. A touch-sensitive feature allows for moving your hands under the faucet for the water to come on or gently tapping the faucet with your hand instead of touching the handles.

Crafting Waves

The walls in your kitchen might be a little boring, but with the right backsplash design, you can have a kitchen that you want to cook in every day. Metallic designs are popular, especially behind the stove and sink. Install the backsplash in one area where you want everyone’s eye to go to instead of covering all of the walls with the material as this will create the biggest statement for the kitchen.

Don’t Dodge the Drawers

When you’re looking for one certain item in the kitchen, it never fails that it’s buried somewhere in a drawer that you don’t use. Organize the drawers that are in the kitchen by adding dividers. You can also install pull-out drawers and cabinets in hidden spaces so that you utilize every area of the kitchen.

Adding Lights

Illuminate the counters with a simple update that makes it easier to see what you’re doing when you’re preparing meals. LED lights that are attached underneath the cabinets above the counters where you work most can add a soft glow to that area of the room. The light can also highlight a special decoration that you want others to see when they walk into the kitchen.

Changing the Ceiling

If you want to completely transform your kitchen, then consider changing the design of the ceiling. Remove the old material that is used that can sometimes create a washed out appearance. Replace this material with a bold design and one that shines as it can add brilliance and a special touch to your home.

The kitchen is likely the most popular room in your home. It should be one that features modern designs that make cooking and spending time with your family enjoyable. Take a step back to get a better perspective of what you can change in your kitchen before completing updates so that this room in your house is one that speaks volumes.

Dreaming of a New Bathroom? 4 Updates That Will Make the Biggest Difference

Dreaming of a New Bathroom 4 Updates That Will Make the Biggest Difference

Are you tired of your same-old, boring bathroom? Are you looking to create a new, relaxing and spa-like space, but don’t have the time or money to do a full renovation? Below, you’ll find four small updates that will make a big impact and completely transform that old bathroom.

Put a Fresh Coat of Paint on the Walls

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your space. Changing the color on the walls can completely change the look and feel of your space. If you are going for a relaxing, spa feel, look for lighter blues, greens, or yellows to paint on the wall. Or, maybe, you want to achieve a bold look in your bathroom and would prefer to find a deeper color. Whatever style and feel you are going for in your new bathroom, you’ll be well on your way with a new paint color.

Install a New Vanity

Have you ever noticed that all the fancy, designer bathrooms feature a luxurious-looking vanity? Why not give yourself this luxury by purchasing a new vanity for your bathroom. You can look for a vanity that will make a statement in your new space. When you are selecting your vanity, think about what material or natural stone you would like the countertop to be made from. Also, consider if you want the vanity to have a natural wood-look to it, or if you would prefer a crisper, white color.

If you are working on a budget, you can even consider converting an existing piece of furniture into a luxury vanity. You can use a dresser or chest that you already own or find the perfect piece to work with at a second-hand store. Then, you’ll just need to cut a hole in the top and purchase a sink. With a little bit of plumbing work, you’ll have your own designer vanity.

Install an Attractive Glass Shower Door

Ditch your dingy curtain or old shower door and reward yourself with a new, attractive glass shower door. This upgrade will add some definite style and flair to your new bathroom. You can choose to add a frosted or clear door and customize the hardware color to match your style. If you are looking for the perfect new glass shower door, you can check out local shops like Valley Glass Utility. Shops will have a wide selection of glass doors that are sure to make a big impact in your space.

Brighten-Up the Space

Lighting can make a huge difference in the look and feel of a bathroom. Look for new lighting fixtures that provide a bright, warm light. This upgrade will add both function and style to your new bathroom.

You’ll be amazed at the impact a few small changes can have on your bathroom. In just a few simple steps, your bathroom will be completely transformed.

Changing from Top to Bottom: 5 Bathroom Renovation Details to Carefully Plan Out

Changing from Top to Bottom 5 Bathroom Renovation Details to Carefully Plan Out

A bathroom renovation is one of the surest ways of increasing your home’s value. It can also greatly impact the happiness of your family. After all, if your bathroom just isn’t doing what it should for your family, then it only makes to change it. However, renovations can quickly turn into a mess if not planned out carefully. Consider these five bathroom details to ensure your bathroom renovation goes smoothly.

Lighting

Since bathrooms don’t typically have a lot of windows—for good reason—they can be quite dark. For some this is relaxing but for others this can make the space seem oppressive. Lights can change all of that. Go over different kinds and styles of light that can be easily installed in your bathroom to give it the most light.

Walls

For many people, the walls of the bathroom are likely a color that they’re just not happy with. If you happen to live in an older home, you may even have dreaded wallpaper to deal with and remove. Before you even decide on a specific aesthetic, you should imagine what you want your space to feel like. If you want a cozier space to relax in as you complete your nightly routine, you might want to consider a dark hue. Since your walls are a huge part of your bathroom, the paint color will decide a lot moving forward.

Sink Countertops

One fun detail that you should go over is the material for the sink countertop. All this counter space should match the overall aesthetic that you’re aiming for. If you want a modern and minimalistic bathroom, then you may want to opt for white cement or granite. For those who prefer rustic, then you could look toward reclaimed wood countertops.

Tub/Shower

Besides just the materials, you need to think about appliances, too. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, you’ll want to carefully consider which shower and tub you want and will use. If you’re redoing a secondary bathroom and don’t plan on spending a lot of time in there, you may want to go with a more utilitarian, space-saving option. For example, a walk-in shower can take up far less space than a large tub-and-shower combo but can still get the user squeaky clean.

On the other hand, if you’re redoing your main bathroom and have a lot of space to work with, you have more options. You may want a separate shower and a separate tub. The shower will allow you to get clean quickly while the tub will give you a space to relax and stretch out after a hard day at work.

Flooring

Another extremely important detail to think about is the flooring. No one should have carpet as the flooring for their bathroom. Not unless you really like wet, moldy carpeting, anyway. However, there are plenty of alternatives like linoleum, stone, and tile.

Linoleum is typically cost effective and can mimic, to some degree, other types of materials. It comes in many different textures, colors, and finishes. Stone is classy and timeless but can get pricey depending on the kind of stone you want. Tile is tricky. A dated tile can bring your entire room back by a few decades while a classy, high-quality tile installation can make the entire room look more luxurious. Carefully consider which material will give you the best aesthetic for your bathroom and fit into your budget.

Everyone’s bathroom should work for them. Carefully considering these five details can ensure your bathroom works perfectly for you and your family.

Drip, Drip, Drip Driving You Mad? 4 Common Causes of a Leaky Faucet

Drip, Drip, Drip Driving You Mad 4 Common Causes of a Leaky Faucet

The continuous and irritating sound of water dripping when the faucet is off is enough reason to go insane. What’s more, a leaky faucet can increase your utility bills significantly. Maybe you’ve wondered what the causes of these leaks are. Here are four common reasons behind your leaky faucet.

Cartridge

Underneath the faucet handle’s decoration is the cartridge. A water valve controls water flow. As the handle turns, half of the cartridge turns, too, opening a hole to release water. The other cartridge half contains the hole for water to pass through to the spout. As the handle turns off, the cartridge stops water from passing through. If the handle is leaking and the washer is new, it’s time for a cartridge replacement.

Washer

The faucet washer is a small, black, circular, rubbery item located underneath the cartridge inside the handle. (Ball handles have two washers within the same handle.) When the valve and washer rub against each other, the valve wears out the washer until it drips at the spout. In fact, most drips come from a faulty washer. Replace the used one with a new one. Expect this leak more often in compression faucets.

Valve Corrosion

With the exception of ball faucets, faucets consist of handles and a spout. Water, of course, originates from the spout. The valve connects the spout to the faucet, and over time it can corrode. Corrosion occurs when water sediments eat away at the valve seat, eventually leaking around the spout base. In fact, most noticeable leaks around the spout base come from valve corrosion. Most valve corrosion is salvageable with cleanup around the base rather than a replacement. However, if the corrosion destroyed the spout, it’s time to replace it.

O-ring

Like the washer, the O-ring is a circular and rubbery disc, too. The O-ring is located inside the faucet spout, and it holds the spout in place. It prevents the spout from leaking water near the spout. If the water is leaking at the spout and/or handles, the O-ring may be loose or worn. Replace the damaged O-ring with a new one. Expect the O-ring replacement to happen more often in cartridge faucets.

Every time the water drips, you can count on the water bill rising. You can also guarantee a persistent annoyance in your home. Don’t delay repairing a leaky faucet. If necessary, contact your local plumber for professional help.

Looking Ahead: 4 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Warmer Months

Looking Ahead 4 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Warmer Months

As the warmer months of the year approach, the need to prepare each home for the change from cold to hot is vital to be ready for every eventuality. Preparing a home for the warmer months can do more than making sure one is ready for any emergency situations, it can also save the homeowner money on their utility bills.

Maintain HVAC systems

Most HVAC companies recommend undergoing a maintenance checkup twice a year during the Fall and Spring to make sure the system is working effectively before reaching peak use times. If the homeowner is not wanting to deal with a professional HVAC company, the first step to take for some home repairs is to turn on the cooling system and ensure it is working effectively before it is needed in the warmer months of the year. One of the major trends for preparing for the warmer months is to install a programmable thermostat in a bid to save on bills. The Department of Energy recommends turning a programmable thermostat as high as possible in the warmer months and presetting a temperature for times spent away from home.

Check decorations and shutters

When preparing a home for the warmer months, one often overlooks what are often seen as decorations around the home. Dusting and switching ceiling fans to circulate air for the warmer months is the first step to take to ensure cooling is undertaken in many different ways. A second issue to consider is the use of shade to protect against the heat of the sun using shutters, which should be checked for damage following the cooler months of the year.

Prepare for storms

Warmer temperatures are usually accompanied by storms and heavy rain for many parts of the world. An area often overlooked is checking for leaks and areas which could be damaged by a storm or heavy rain, such as cracks and holes in walls and roofing systems. Gutters play a role in protecting against storm damage and should be cleaned and checked for damage as the warmer times approach.

Protect against bugs

The problem of bugs is one we are all worried about as the warmer times of the year roll around again. Bugs of all kinds are unable to survive during the cooler months and appear in the Spring meaning a homeowner should seal their home and consider employing a pest control service if needed.

Taking a few small steps in the months before the warmest times of the year come around can have a major impact on the success felt during the Summer. Shutters provide shade from the radiant heat of the Sun and should be considered for areas of full sun throughout most days.

4 Things You Can Convert Your Garage Into (if You Don’t Mind Parking in the Driveway)

4 Things You Can Convert Your Garage Into

Do you need more space to do the things you love? Is a separate office space a necessity instead of a desire? Well, if you don’t mind parking your car in the driveway, you can convert your garage into a variety of spaces. Here are four ways you can find some extra room with a custom garage renovation below.

Exercise Studio

Instead of paying gym fees and cleaning everyone else’s sweat off from the equipment, you can buy your own exercise machines, bands, and weights. Transforming your garage should include insulating the area and deciding how to heat and cool the space. With a little paint and some carpet tiles, you can create a gym where you and your partner or roommates can work out in peace.

Office Space

When quiet rooms are nonexistent in your home, then you need a separate office to get anything done. For a few hundred dollars in materials and a lot of sweat equity, you can build a personal office. This way, you’ll be able to Skype with clients in peace and set up face-to-face interviews without the kids or pets getting underfoot.

Game Room

Does your family need a fun spot to hang out? When your basement or attic space is already in use, then why not transform your garage into a family hangout. Even a one-car garage has enough room for a pool table, a video game studio, or a mini-casino. With these styles, you can get as creative or tailored as you want. For example, you can turn the space into a sports room for BMX riders if it is large enough.

Extra Bedroom

When you have a child return home from college, then an extra bedroom might be the only solution. The garage is an excellent space to install new sleeping quarters. If you have a big enough space or more than one level, then you can turn the garage into a studio apartment with a loft. Families moving in aging parents can take advantage of garage space to give your mom or dad some privacy while keeping him or her close.

The garage is often overlooked when homeowners are seeking additional space in their home. This is unfortunate, given the numerous potential ways you can transform it. Keep in mind that a functional garage door is ideal when renovating your garage, as this will ensure you will keep your home’s resale value as high as possible. If necessary, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for garage door repairs as you convert your garage.

Own Beaucoup Books? 4 Tips for Designing a Home Library

Own Beaucoup Books 4 Tips for Designing a Home Library

If you enjoy reading, chances are you have collected a large number of books over the years. Although you can borrow and return books from the public library at no cost, as well as read many works online for free, there is something very satisfying about owning paperback and hardback books of your own. However, if your collection is sitting randomly on shelves or stacked in boxes, it may be a good idea to design your own personal home library. Here are four tips to help you with this task.

Designate a Reading Area
Your home library should be arranged in an area that is conducive to reading. First, you will need shelves or containers in which to store your books. Then, you will need to provide adequate lighting. If the current home lighting in that area is too dim, add a table lamp or set up the reading area near windows that let in natural light. Choose an area that is relatively quiet where family members can spend time with a favorite book.

Organize Your Books
If you like to read a variety of books, such as self-help, biographies, and fiction, arrange your collection in the order that will best help you locate them. However, if you read mostly the same kind of books, organize them alphabetically by your favorite authors or the book titles. The goal is to coordinate your collection in an easy way that will help you find what you want when you are ready to read.

Set Up a Section for the Kids
Kids who read as one of their hobbies generally earn higher grades in school. In addition, reading fosters creativity and stokes the imagination. If you have children or frequent young visitors, include kids’ books in one section of your library to help entertain the little ones while helping them to develop important thinking skills that will come in handy elsewhere in life.

Recycle Your Books
Although you may keep some favorite books forever, you also might have some that you are never going to read. Alternately, you might have some to pass along. Donate used books to the library or a thrift store, and get a tax deduction receipt. You can also sell books online. Then, use the income to buy new books, keeping your library ever-fresh.

If you become a reading junkie, you may decide to build an even larger home library. But, if your current home lacks space for expansion, you can always start looking at new homes for sale. Until then, follow the above tips in order to design a home library that will serve as a sanctuary where you can indulge your favorite hobby.

 

Live In or Move Out: The Remodeling Dilemma

There comes a time in every person’s life when they decide that it’s high time for a home renovation. Whether you got bored with the same old furniture, tiles, and floors, or you are experiencing problems such as leaking roofs and the lack of square footage for your growing family, sooner or later, you will have to hire contractors to get to work. While this is an exciting time and the time of change, there is also one dilemma that is on every homeowner’s mind – should you live in or move out? Moving out while remodeling may bring additional costs during this already expensive period. But staying put might result in more problems than you and your family can handle. Here’s how to solve this dilemma once and for all and decide what to do when repairing or replacing the items inside your home.

Live In or Move Out The Remodeling Dilemma (2)
Live in or move out while remodeling? The answer is a complex one.

Look at the size of the project when deciding whether to live in or move out

Without a doubt, the first thing to consider when deciding whether to live in through the remodeling madness or to move out is the amount of work that needs to be done. It’s the sheer size of the project that will help you make the best decision. For example, if the work needs to be done on one half of your home or more, the answer is simple. Functioning in such a constricted space won’t be a feasible option for you and your family. On the other hand, if the workers will be focused on one to two rooms, there is no need for you to spend any extra money on movers. Sure, there are plenty of affordable movers out there, and you can find them everywhere. From databases such as Verified Movers to their own websites, moving quotes come in a vast price range. But, be frugal, and spend your money only on the necessities. And movers are not a necessity if all you are doing is repainting your home. 

How long will it take for the project to be finished?

The truth is that there is not a simple answer to the dilemma of moving out or staying in during remodeling. But, one thing you have to take into account is for how long the workers will invade your premises. Let’s say your goal is to give your kitchen a makeover and replace the tiles, as well as the cabinets and countertops. While you are at it, you have decided to change your bathroom tiles, as well. The answer depends on the size of these rooms and on the estimate your contractor gave you. If they estimated that the work can be done in a matter of days, which is oftentimes the case with small kitchens and bathrooms, then there is no point in you moving out. Perhaps you can use your neighbor’s bathroom (assuming you are on good terms, of course) for those two or three days and you can always order in. But, if the workers will be busy with these rooms for a whole week or more, it will be next to impossible for you to stay put. That’s a situation where you have no other option but to move out.

Live In or Move Out The Remodeling Dilemma (4)
In order to get a fabulous kitchen, you might have to sacrifice a lot.

Think about the health and safety hazards

It goes without saying that your health comes first, even before your finances. You can never let it suffer just because you need to save a few extra dollars. Money can always be earned but, sometimes, health cannot be restored. And the truth is that there is nothing worse than living in a construction zone. Don’t mind the constant yelling, drilling, and altogether noise that comes with remodeling. But take into account all the power tools that will be lying around, sometimes unattended. Add dust everywhere and you quickly get a scenario that presents a major safety hazard. Such conditions are dangerous for grown-ups, but they are ten times as dangerous for kids. So, if you have a child, it goes without saying that you should move out if the scope of the project is so big that it entails the aforementioned conditions.

How can you stay in and keep your sanity?

Some people are all for staying in your home during remodeling. That way, you get to keep close tabs on the construction workers and to personally make sure everything goes according to the plan. Once again, unless it is dangerous and otherwise impossible for you to stay in, you could attempt to live through the mess that comes with remodeling. And you should do that by creating your own personal oasis in one part of your home. Have your contractor create a seal off zone, a chunk of your home that will be off-limits to the workers. This will be your place to retreat once the whole undertaking becomes too overwhelming. Not only will you be able to calm down in this area, but you will also have a fully functional place.

Live In or Move Out The Remodeling Dilemma (3)
Having a zone where you can retreat, no matter how small, will be helpful.

Have an exit strategy

If, on the other hand, you belong to those who prefer to get away from all the mess that comes with remodeling, you have your options open. For starters, you can stay in with friends and family, and save the money you would have to spend on rent or hotels. Of course, you should choose this option only if you know you won’t be intruding. Otherwise, there is no point in saving money while losing precious friendships and hindering family relations. Moreover, you can stay at an extended-stay residence hotel or seek out other long or short-term housing solutions. Again, everything depends on how long the remodeling will last.

When dealing with the live in or move out dilemma, the most important thing is your sanity. Do you think you will be able to mentally handle all the disruptions? Or will you crumble down under the pressure and chaos? Be wise when choosing, as your happiness, as well as the success of the project, depend on it.

Backyard Renovations: 4 Reasons Why a Pool Would Rule

Backyard Renovations 4 Reasons a Pool Would Rule

You may be considering adding a pool to your backyard. While this is a major renovation, it may be worth the time and investment to have your very own pool. Having a pool in your backyard can have benefit for not only you and the kids in your home, but also friends, family, and neighbors.

But just what are these benefits? Let’s look at the top four reasons why a pool would rule.

Great for Physical Health

You don’t have to swim laps to see the physical benefit of having a pool. In fact, just lazily swimming around, doing a few dives, and floating around on a raft not only keep you active but also allow you time under the sun. It’s important that you wear sunscreen when outside, but even with sunscreen you are exposed to the healthy rays of the sun. Most of us get the majority of our Vitamin D through sun exposure.

Great for Mental Health

Whether you’ve spent all day at the office, at school, or even taking care of the house, taking a mental health break is important. With a pool in your own backyard, this becomes much easier. Whether you want to lounge in a chair by the pool, perhaps under some shade, or whether you feel like doing a cannonball into the deep end, relaxing and enjoying your backyard makes it easier for you to take a mental-health break.

Perfect for Quality Time with the Family

If you’re finding it hard to get both kids and adults in one place all at the same time with no electronics around, investing in a swimming pool may be the answer. It’s hard to say no when someone invites you to go for a swim. Plus, due to the nature of a swimming pool, everyone will have to leave their phones and tablets inside. This means this time spent in or by the pool as a family can be a great way to not only bond but also to open up a conversation about everyone’s day, which can bring you closer together as a family.

Ideal for Socializing

You and your family may not be the only ones to benefit from a backyard swimming pool. Your kids can throw pool parties with their friends from school, and your backyard may be the coolest spot in town for a block party. What’s more, birthday parties, anniversaries, and even weddings may just find their way into your backyard. Be the life of the neighborhood with your very own swimming pool and create lasting relationships with those close to you.

Even considering all these great reasons for having a swimming pool, you may be worried that pool construction may be costly in both funds and time. However, finding the right contractor to install your new pool during your backyard renovation can make sure you have the backyard of your dreams, and that you see all these benefits and more.

 

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