windows Archives - Bruzzese Home Improvements

If you’re a homeowner, you have a lot of maintenance tasks to keep on top of for your home to stay in top condition. Your windows are one of these areas that don’t require your attention too often and can easily slip your mind until it is far beyond the time they should have been replaced. Here are four signs that your windows should have been replaced a while ago.

They Have Cracks

This one may seem pretty obvious. However, it can be easy to just forget about windows that have cracks in them when they’re located in areas we don’t use regularly. Realize that those cracks are letting in unwanted airflow that could be causing your energy bills to increase. Also, note that the structural integrity of your windows is drastically reduced when there are physical cracks in your glass.

There’s Fog in Between Your Glass Panes

If you’ve noticed that there is fog in between your glass panes that just can’t be wiped off from the inside or outside of your window, it’s time to get new windows. Each double pane window has gas inside of it. You’ll usually find that the gas is argon. Over time, the consistent use of your window can create breaks in the seal around the panes. This can let the argon leak out and condensation get in.

You Hear Loud Noises

Windows are meant to not only let the sunlight in but also to keep the noise out. If you notice that the outdoor sounds aren’t much different in tone from standing in and outside of your home, it’s likely time to upgrade your window. Single pane windows don’t provide a lot of noise cancellation, which is why they have gone out of style. Newer double and triple pane glass windows are becoming the new norm as they can help to keep outdoor noises under control.

They Don’t Open or Shut

If your windows are not operational, it’s time to get new ones. Older window frames can simply get stuck over time. As their frames get bent, they may not shut tightly and can allow in drafts and create the inability to lock your window. Replacing these windows can allow for actual functionality for your home.

While you may have debated the idea of getting new windows, it’s easy to push it off until it’s too late. If you’re experiencing any of the four issues above, it’s really time to make the investment in newer windows. Click here to investigate different window options in your area. You may just be surprised at home much they save you in energy costs throughout the year.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks
Freelance writer and web enthusiast

If you have double glazing in your home, you’ll have no doubt already recognized and experienced many benefits. However, homeowners with single glazing might not yet realize just how beneficial new double glazing may be for a number of reasons. Single glazing windows require regular treatment and maintenance, and during Winter, homes can become incredibly cold and often subject to damp and condensation. This in itself can lead to more serious issues and as a result, costly, unnecessary repairs.

Kenneth Hislop, of Window Advice Centre in Scotland – specialists in double glazing in Glasgow, Scotland – says that “the actual benefits of double glazing can save you a lot of money over time, on your energy bills and on general maintenance, like treating timber window frames”.

If you currently have single glazed windows, or your existing windows are due for replacement, consider the benefits of double glazing when deciding to buy new windows.

Style & Appearance

Double glazing is widely available in many different styles and finishes. Of course, standard white UPVC double glazed windows are still a popular choice, but you will find yourself choosing from a huge selection of colours, materials and finishes. This means that your home will enjoy a new aesthetic and look the part once your new windows are installed. Styles might include; reversible windows, sash windows, tilt and turn windows and more.

Security & Safety

It’s important to feel safe in your own home and UPVC windows with double glazing can increase security to give you the peace of mind that windows are difficult to damage and penetrate. Single glazing does not offer much in terms of security. Thin panes and timber frames can often be easily broken. Double glazed windows – with two windowpanes and strong, durable UPVC frames – offer safety features that are not provided by other window styles.

Saving Money

Double glazed windows can certainly save you a lot of money over time. Timber frames with single glazed panes require regular maintenance, including painting and treating. In addition to this, they don’t offer much to your home in terms of insulation, if anything at all. Double glazing, on the other hand, is a very energy efficient solution. With increased insulation and noise reduction properties, double-glazed windows will save you money on your household energy bills simply because your home will retain more heat.

Double Glazing For Your Home

When choosing new windows for your property, it’s important that they look good and last, in addition to keeping your home safe and warm. There are, of course, alternative options you can choose from – such as triple glazed windowpanes – and various styles too, such as reversible windows and sash windows. However, double glazing proves itself time and time again to be the most popular choice for homeowners choosing new windows in the UK.

If you’re ready to replace the windows of your home, make sure you consider the benefits of double glazing before making your choice, as the benefits are priceless.

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.

Are you looking for ways to improve the appearance of your windows? There are many ways in which you can achieve drastic results and gain great looking windows.

Your windows are a massive investment into your home and they are often left undressed and bare. Adding even some colour to your frames can make the world of difference. Like many home renovation tasks, there are costly and cheap ways of going about it.

Plants are a natural and cost effective way to liven up your window space. It’s environmentally friendly and they will even clean the air within the house for you! If you’re looking for something with less maintenance then you can add some bold curtains or coloured blinds to lighten up your windows.

Window stickers are a great way to add design to your windows and good for distracting prying eyes that try to look into your home. We often only think of window stickers when it’s Christmas time but they are becoming increasingly popular as their design has become more sleek and modern.

There are bigger tasks like adding a window seat that can add a really cosy feeling to your room, but if you’re looking for a quick fix then this may not be the option for you.

Whatever you’re looking for, the infographic below will guide you through many inspirations that you can start using today!

A home’s doors and windows are the first lines of defense against burglars and intruders. Doors are by far the most important because they are the main entrance to the house and logically where the burglars will try first. While taking simple steps, such as always securing the locks and repairing broken doors and windows is certainly important, there are a few ways that homeowners can go beyond the basics when choosing new doors and windows for the home.

Go Solid

Doors that lead to the outdoors should always be solid. While hollow doors are often used indoors for improved cost as well as a lightweight feel, front and back doors as well as doors leading to the garage should be made of solid wood or metal with inner reinforcements. Other good options include fiberglass and reinforced steel. Consider options like these attractive and inviting New Jersey doors that look beautiful and are sturdy as well.

Consider Windowless

Numerous doors come with decorative windows to let in light and to provide a curbside statement. However, these same windows also provide easy ways for predators to peep indoors or for intruders to reach into the home to unlock the door. Homeowners that must have windows in their doors should consider choosing ones with metal reinforcements or smaller windows that are quite far from the door’s lock.

Always Include Deadbolts

Instead of using only the small locks that are part of the doorknob, all homeowners should have deadbolts installed with their new doors. Deadbolts extend far into the doorframe, creating another layer of protection for the household. In addition, homeowners should ensure that the doorframe is sturdy to protect it from being kicked out by an intruder.

Choose Reliable Brands And Companies

Of course, any door or window is only as reliable as the company that sells it is. Homeowners should choose reputable companies to buy from. A reputable firm will be able to direct homeowners to the sturdiest doors and to the most secure windows for the home. A good installer will be able to make these recommendations without sacrificing the style of the home.

Beware Of Sliding Doors

Sliding glass patio doors are some of the easiest options for intruders looking to break into a home. Not only are these typically solid glass, but also many of them can be easily forced open. Homeowners that have these patio or balcony doors should only choose options made from reinforced glass or polycarbonate and should always install a sturdy, solid metal or wooden dowel in the track in addition to the door’s traditional lock.

Choose Reinforced Glass

Windows should be made from reinforced glass, such as laminated glass, or from polycarbonate or Plexiglas, which are quite difficult and time-consuming to break. All homeowners should consider installing reflective coatings on the glass to ensure that potential intruders cannot see into the house even if the curtains are open.

Add Window Bars

Homes that are built along the street or that have windows that are very low to the ground are at particular risk from intruders. Window bars can protect the home even if the glass is broken. Homeowners need not worry that these bars will ruin the look of the home. Many options are quite decorative with scrollwork and even shapes that can extend over window boxes.

Homeowners who do not know too much about the windows and doors that are currently on the market today should check with professional installers to determine what the most secure options are. While safe, solid doors and windows almost always cost more than the baseline models do, they are certainly worth it for peace of mind as well as for home and personal safety.

The windows are essentially the eyes of your home. They serve an extremely important function but can also have a dramatic effect on enhancing the outward appearance if you choose the appropriate style and the right dressings. When you are planning on installing new replacement windows, you need to consider efficiency, cost, your home’s architecture and also your personal aesthetic. While the standard window does serve its purpose, here are four different types that will say a lot about your taste.

The Bay Window for the Artist at Heart

The bay window is highly sought after because it has such an artistic effect. Originating from the German word meaning ‘the ledge in the wall’, it contributes to the home’s exterior appeal while giving homeowners a unique panoramic view of their surroundings from inside their living space. Generally, bay windows have three openings that vary in sizes. The center ‘picture’ window is unobstructed and the surrounding windows on either side are smaller set a mood and will become a real focus in the design of your home interior.

The Bow Window for Another Kind of Beautiful

A bow window is another type of window that acts as a focal point inside of the home and transforms the exterior as well. While bow windows may appear to be bay windows at first glance, they are actually designed for homeowners who want an open space that feels fresh and open. Bow windows have a semi-circular outer structure that is best suited for homes that need more natural light and that have more room for additional panes. They are also unique in the sense that they can wrap around the corner of a home, so you can have views from two different angles.

The Wood Window for a Practical and Classical Design

The wood window is a beautiful and long-lasting option for homeowners who want a classical design and who want to benefit from the practicality of the material. With a variety of wood choices that range from pine and oak to mahogany and maple, the color and finishes that you choose can compliment any type of space that you would like to look timeless, inviting and charming.

Casement Windows for Clean Lines and Function

If you want a more modern appearance where the space is designed solely on clean lines, casement windows from companies like Five Star Windows Inc. are a great accent that will let natural light in. In addition to allowing homeowners to compliment the sleek lines in their interior design, the window will allow more air to blow through the home while they are open and provide a more open view of nature.

Everyone has their own personal aesthetic. You may like a refined and modern look or a classical application that will never go out of style. Be sure to compare several styles and only then can you decide on a replacement window and a professional installer.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks

Freelance writer and web enthusiast
Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.

Call Us

4 Signs Your Windows Should Have Been Replaced by Now

They Have Cracks

There’s Fog in Between Your Glass Panes

You Hear Loud Noises

They Don’t Open or Shut

THE BENEFITS OF INSTALLING DOUBLE GLAZING IN YOUR HOME

6 Signs You Need to Replace & Upgrade Your Windows ASAP

1. Your energy bill becomes remarkably high

2. They are broken, damaged or warped

3. Noise easily penetrates your home interior

4. It feels drafty

5. Condensation builds up in between glass panes

6. You have trouble opening or closing windows

How To Make Your Windows Stand Out – Infographic

Home Safety: Tips To Consider When Picking Your Windows And Doors

Go Solid

Consider Windowless

Always Include Deadbolts

Choose Reliable Brands And Companies

Beware Of Sliding Doors

Choose Reinforced Glass

Add Window Bars

4 Window Types to Match Your Personal Aesthetic

The Bay Window for the Artist at Heart

The Bow Window for Another Kind of Beautiful

The Wood Window for a Practical and Classical Design

Casement Windows for Clean Lines and Function

Bruzzese Home Improvements

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