Why You Should Use Tempered Glass in Your Home

Have you ever wondered what you could do to make your home safer? Picture this: you’re curled up on the couch watching a late-night thriller movie and the home invasion scene comes on. As the villain effortlessly breaks through the terrified homeowner’s window, you glance over at your living room window and suddenly you’re concerned about your own safety.

I know the feeling. I’ve been there, double-checking my locks and leaving a light on because I’m worried that someone might break-in. It felt like there was nothing I could do to make my house safer, but get this: I was wrong.

That’s right – there IS something that you can do to make your windows 4-5 times stronger. And you know what? All you need to do is choose a different type of glass – tempered glass.

Maybe you’re thinking that you have already taken other steps to secure your house. Great, but don’t stop reading just yet, because tempered glass does more than help keeps bad guys out. We will also be sharing how tempered glass can protect you and your family from accidental injury.

Want to find out more about this special glass and how it works? First off, let’s start by introducing the world of glass. Frankly, most of us don’t know all that much about glass and we just assume it is all created equal. But consider this: there are many types of glass and each is designed for a different purpose.

By now you’re probably wondering what type of glass is used in everyday windows and how to tell if your existing windows are regular glass or tempered glass. But before we go into how to identify the type of glass that you have, we need to learn about both kinds.

What Kind of Glass is Used in Windows and Doors?

Annealed Glass

The standard type of glass that you can expect to find in basic home windows is called annealed glass. Annealed glass is a softer glass that is cooled slowly during production to help it withstand temperature fluctuations.

Tempered Glass

A stronger type of glass which can also be found in homes and businesses is tempered or toughened glass. Tempered glass is a variety of safety glass which gains its strength from the rapid heating and cooling process that it goes through during production.

International building codes require that tempered glass be used in certain locations such as near showers, hot tubs, and stairs where the risk of someone falling into the glass is higher. When purchasing, expect the tempered glass to cost more than annealed glass.

What Makes Tempered Glass a Good Choice?

Tempered glass is a preferred window material choice for two reasons: durability and safety.

Durability

Want to see just how much abuse a tempered window can take? In side-by-side window pane tests, baseballs and golf balls simply bounced off a tempered glass window, but they shattered the annealed glass. Keep that in mind the next time you see a flock of neighborhood kids headed down the street to play baseball.

Safety

Fair warning: even a tempered glass window can be broken, but if it does break, it breaks much differently than annealed glass. This is where your family’s safety comes into play.

Annealed glass breaks into sharp shards that can get embedded in little feet and hands. If your elderly parent or your little child falls through an annealed glass window, they are going to end up with nasty cuts.

This is where the tempered glass fits in. When tempered glass breaks, it breaks into small, smoother and more rounded pieces than annealed glass. Your loved ones are much less likely to cut themselves on the smooth edges of broken tempered glass.

How to Tell if Glass is Tempered

So how do you tell if you already have tempered glass windows? It’s easier than you think. There are a few ways to find out if a window is tempered (and only one of them involves breaking the window).

You start by checking for an etched stamp in one of the window corners that say “Tempered” or “Temp.”

No stamp? Don’t stop yet because there is still a chance your window is tempered, and the stamp is simply hidden by the window frame.

Wait for a sunny day, then put on a pair of polarized sunglasses and look at the window in question. If it is tempered, you will see a series of dark, shadowy lines across the glass. These are leftover by the rollers that the window pane sat on during tempering.

The Bottom Line

To recap, the most common types of glass used in homes are annealed and tempered. Tempered glass is specially treated to be stronger and safer than annealed glass, so it is used in more high-risk locations where it is mandated by building code. Expect tempered glass to break less easily and if it does break, to be less sharp and dangerous than annealed glass.

Now go take a look at your current windows and see if they are tempered. If not, give us a call and we will walk you through how to make your home safer with tempered glass.

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/why-you-should-use-tempered-glass-in-your-home/

What are Good Ways to Secure My House?

You work hard to earn what you have, and the last thing you want is for someone to break into your home and steal from you. Unfortunately, the most recent FBI crime reports document an estimated 1.4 million annual burglaries in the United States.

Each of these break-ins costs the homeowner an average of roughly $2,400, not to mention the time of dealing with insurance companies, police reports, and home repairs or the emotional and mental impact.

You may not be able to make your home 100% burglar-proof, but there are some simple, actionable steps you can take so your home becomes less appealing to a burglar out trolling for easy targets.

 

Reinforce (and Lock) Your Doors

One of the first entry points burglars go to is your front door. Is it locked? Good job – you passed the initial test.

Now, what else can you do to make your door stronger?

In most forced entries, the door itself isn’t what breaks. Usually, the weakest point is actually the doorjamb. A swift kick to a non-reinforced doorjamb splinters the wood. To combat this, newer doors are being made with heavy metal reinforcing plates.

Not in the market for new doors? Upgrade the security of your existing doors by installing metal-reinforced box strike plates with 3” screws.

Some other DIY door security upgrades include replacing existing deadbolts with quality Grade 1 deadbolt and swapping out the deadbolt strike plates and screws as well.

Lock Your Windows

The second most common entry point in home burglaries is through windows. The good news is that there are some easy steps you can take to make your windows more burglar-proof.

For starters, inspect your windows’ existing locks and ensure that they work. Next step – actually lock them any time you are away from home and at night when you go to bed.

After-market security bars that are easy to remove from the inside, but keep the window closed.

A final security measure is a glass break sensor that will notify you if your window is broken. This can be a stand-alone sensor or may operate as part of a larger home security system (more on that later).

Hide (REALLY hide) the Spare Key

If you are one of the 18% of Americans who leave a spare house key hidden outside, you may want to rethink that practice. At the very least, choose a less obvious hiding place.

A recent survey found that 35% of homeowners said they stashed a spare door key in a fake rock and a scary 25% of respondents simply slid the key under the door mat (the first place a would-be burglar is likely to look). [1]

If you must have a spare, store it in your vehicle, at work or with a trusted nearby family member, friend or neighbor.

Light Up Your Yard

In addition to some strategically placed ornamental lighting, install motion-sensor floodlights that can be turned on after everyone has gone inside for the evening.

Pro Tip: Be sure to install the floodlights in a high enough location that a burglar can’t simply walk up and unscrew the lightbulb.

Don’t Give Them a Place to Hide

Now that you’ve illuminated your yard, where do you think a potential burglar will want to go? That’s right – they will be hiding anywhere they can.

You don’t have to remove all of your landscaping, but do conduct your own risk assessment of your property as it is now.

Are there easy hiding places like soft hedges and shrubs near doors, windows or other entry points? What can you do to make those places less inviting?

Install a Home Security System

Are you curious about home security systems but wondering whether they are actually effective?

A study conducted by the University of North Carolina’s Criminal Justice Department found that 83% of potential burglars would try to find out if a house had an alarm system. If they learned that the house had an alarm, 60% would choose another, less well-protected target.

If an alarm system was discovered mid-attempt, 50% of burglars would always leave and 31% would sometimes leave.

This means that only 13% of burglars will always continue the burglary after finding out that you have a security system.

Now that you’re ready to look into them, there are many home security systems to choose from, both professionally monitored and non-monitored.

Learn how the systems work, then choose the best fit for you.

Complete systems typically come with a control panel, door and window sensors, motion sensors, surveillance cameras, a high-decibel alarm plus yard signs and window stickers to advertise that your house is secured.

Commit to Consistently Using Whatever Security Measures You Have Installed

An unlocked door provides easy access to your home and even the most elaborate and high-tech home security system does you no good if you don’t consistently arm it.

Complacency is dangerous and can put you and your home at risk. Whatever steps you take to secure your home, choose options that you are confident you and your family will commit to using on a regular basis.

[1] http://www.eyewitnesssurveillance.com/americans-dont-lock-doors-survey/

Look at our video!

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What Kind of Glass is Best for Skylights? [+ a guide to skylight types and coatings]

Imagine what it would be like to transform that dark, gloomy spare room into a bright, sun-filled retreat by day and an indoor stellar observatory by night. Now wouldn’t it be great if you could let in all that light without needing to install windows that provide your nosy next-door neighbor a clear view into the room?

The solution is simple – skylights. Now maybe you have been avoiding skylights because you heard horror stories about leaks and other problems. Admittedly, skylights can seem like a somewhat counter-intuitive concept. After all, why would you want to take a perfectly good roof and cut a hole in it?

The good news is that modern skylights are much more reliable than their original counterparts. You can have your bright natural light and a weatherproof house too. Just plan for your skylight installation and choose the skylight that is right for you.

Not sure how to choose a skylight? We have put together the necessary information on skylight types, materials, and coating options to prepare you to pick out the perfect skylight.

Ready? Let’s get started.

What conditions does your skylight need to withstand?

Before we dive into what specific types of glass are best for skylights, let’s first talk about what challenging conditions your skylights need to endure.

UV Light

As that gorgeous natural light comes streaming into your room, it first passes through the skylight. That means that whatever material your skylight is made of must be designed to handle extended UV light exposure.

Precipitation

Rain, snow, sleet, hail, ice – these unforgiving elements all land directly on your roof and skylights. Be sure they can take it.

Impact

Tree branches are the most likely cause of impact damage, although other airborne debris from a heavy wind-storm can also cause damage. Know how your skylight will react to impact damage.

What types of skylights can I choose from?

Skylights come in two operational types, giving you options for how your skylight functions.

Fixed/Inoperable

Just like they sound, fixed or inoperable skylights don’t open and close. They simply remain stationary and let light in.

Venting/Operable

If you want your skylight to function more like a window and allow both light and air to come in, choose a venting or operable style of the skylight. These skylights can either be opened manually, with a remote or – on very high-end models – automatically, based on built-in rain and moisture sensors.

What materials are skylights made from?

Sound like you know what you’re talking about when you refer to your material choices as your “glazing options.” Skylights can be glazed with either plastic or several types of glass, although glass is usually preferred.

Does it matter which skylight glazing you choose? Yes, it does, so let’s check out the pros and cons of each.

Plastic

Plastic is the original glazing option and one that has been used for a long time. It has a few pros, but many cons and it is becoming a less common choice.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Light-weight
• Multiple shapes available

Cons

• Scratches more easily
• Discolors more easily
• Less clear view
• Allows more UV light through
• Only comes in standard sizes

Glass

The preferred glazing for skylights is glass and there are several variations of glass to choose from. They share some similar pros and cons along with having their own unique traits.

Pros

• More sophisticated appearance
• Clear view
• Many shapes available
• Many sizes available
• Doesn’t scratch as easily
• Better UV protection

Cons

• • Heavier
  • Custom sizes and shapes are more expensive

Tempered Glass

What exactly is tempered glass? Check this out: when a piece of glass has been tempered, this means that it was super-heated and then cooled rapidly. This process results in a piece of glass that is 4-5 times stronger than the original. If a sheet of tempered glass breaks, it shatters into a lot of small, more rounded pieces instead of sharp shards.

Laminated Glass

Do you remember playing with a laminating machine and sandwiching a piece of paper between two sheets of the laminate material? Perfect. You understand laminated glass.

To make laminated glass, one sheet of clear vinyl is encased between two sheets of glass. They are bonded together, creating a super-strong, impact-resistant glass. If the glass somehow does break, the sheets all hold together with minimal loose glass falling inside your house.

As if that’s not enough, there’s more. Laminated glass blocks a whopping 99% of UV light and it also has soundproofing properties.

Tempered-Over-Laminated Glass

Now you may be wondering if you should use tempered or laminated glass for your skylights and how to choose. The good news? You don’t have to.

Here’s the thing: the absolute best kind of glass for a skylight is tempered-over-laminated. This hybrid approach combines the strengths of both tempered and laminated glass to give you the strongest, most resilient, best quality skylight you can imagine.

What coatings are used on skylights?

Your choice of glazing isn’t the only factor that determines how well your skylight performs. You can further enhance the performance by adding coatings to your glass.

Tinting

Just like on your car windows, adding tinting to a skylight helps it to absorb more of the solar heat and keep it from transferring inside. This keeps your home cooler in the hot summer months.

Low-Emissivity (Low-E)

The Midwest is blessed with both heat and cold, so a Low-E coating can really benefit you here. This type of coating helps improve energy efficiency in both the summer and winter. The coating reflects your home’s inside temperature back inside instead, so you keep more of your cool summer air or toasty winter air in.

The Bottom Line

Skylights can bring light to an otherwise dreary room while still maintaining visual privacy. Remember to select a skylight that stands up to all the stressors that it will be faced with. Skylight glazing options include both plastic and glass although glass is usually preferred. The best kind of glass for a skylight is tempered-over-laminated and coatings can be added to further enhance the skylight’s performance.

Are you ready to install a skylight in your home? Contact us and let us know what room in your home is ready to be upgraded with a skylight.

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/what-kind-of-glass-is-best-for-skylights-a-guide-to-skylight-types-and-coatings/

8 Easy Ways to Burglar Proof Your Windows in 2019

Property Managers: Secrets to Stress-Free Window Installation Planning

What are the Benefits of Window Replacement Services?

Energy Efficient Windows: 5 ways windows are rated

“Energy efficiency” – it sounds so environmentally friendly and fiscally responsible, but what exactly does it mean? Is it just a fancy buzzword or does it have a quantifiable impact on the quality and performance of our windows?

If energy efficiency is quantifiable, what makes a window energy efficient? Who does the quantifying and how do they communicate that to the public?

What are the benefits of purchasing an energy efficient window vs a non-energy efficient window?

These are some of the questions that come up while shopping for new windows. Let’s break them down and provide the answers you need to make the best decision for you and your home.

What is energy efficiency?

Quite simply, energy efficiency describes a product’s ability to provide the same service using less energy than a similar, non-efficient product.

What does this mean to you? Energy efficient windows are better at maintaining the temperature inside your home regardless of whether you are in the middle of an arctic freeze or a record heat wave. This helps you to avoid higher utility bills since you won’t need to run your heater or air conditioner as often as if you had a non-efficient window.

Who issues energy efficiency ratings?

Two programs/agencies in the United States test and rate windows on their energy performance levels – Energy Star and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).

A third group – the Efficient Windows Collaborative (EWC) – is an excellent third-party resource for educational materials and minimum NFRC ratings recommendations based on what area of the country you live in.

Energy Star

Most of us have heard of Energy Star, even if we are not sure what exactly an Energy Star rating means. The Energy Star program is a joint venture between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United States Department of Energy.

Appliances, insulation, windows, lighting, electronics and heating/cooling products are all tested, and their efficiencies compared to a baseline value. Products that meet a certain threshold are given the Energy Star sticker of approval.

National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)

The NFRC is a nonprofit independent organization created by industry leaders. Its purpose is to provide consumers with an objective analysis of the energy performance of a particular window, door or skylight.

How is energy efficiency quantified?

Both the Energy Star program and the NFRC quantify the energy efficiency performance of products and communicate that data to the rest of us in a standardized way that we can understand.

How do they do that? Let’s find out.

Energy Star keeps their rating pretty simplified. A product either earns the little blue star sticker of approval or it does not. For a product to be Energy Star approved, it must meet standards for U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient. Each Energy Star sticker also indicates which of the 4 U.S. climate zones the product is rated for.

The NFRC bases their rating on the two factors considered by Energy Star as well as an additional 3 metrics. This means that a window which is approved by the NFRC will also meet Energy Star standards, but not all Energy Star windows will also be NFRC approved.

The 5 factors that the NFRC tests and rates are:

U-Factor

• Rates the insulation value of a window
• A lower U-Factor number means that the window is a better insulator.
• Range: 0.20 – 1.20
• For northern states like Illinois, the EWC recommends windows that are rated 0.35 or lower.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)

• Rates the amount of solar radiation and heat that passes through the window
• A lower SHGC number means that less radiation and heat are entering your home.
• Range: 0 – 1
• For northern states, the recommendation is the highest number possible combined with a low U-Factor if you don’t need to cool your house much in the summer. If you usually run your air conditioner frequently during hot months, choose a SHGC below 0.55.

Air Leakage (AL)

• Rates the amount of air that passes through the window frame once it is installed. This metric is measured in cubic feet per square foot of window area.
• A lower number means that the frame is more airtight.
• Industry standard: 0.3

Visible Transmittance (VT)

• Rates the amount of light that the window lets in
• A lower number means less light is coming in.
• Range: 0 – 1
• Reduce glare in a media room by choosing a window with lower transmittance. Craving natural light in your living room or breakfast nook? Opt for panes with a higher visible transmittance rating.

Condensation Resistance

• Rates the amount of moisture that builds up on the surface of a window or causes glazing between the panes of a dual or triple-pane window
• A lower number means that the window allows more condensation to build up.
• Range: 1 – 100
• Condensation resistance is an optional rating category and some manufacturers may not include this information.

How are energy efficiency ratings communicated?

When windows meet or exceed the rating standards, manufacturers label them with a certification sticker.

Look for the blue Energy Star sticker and/or the white NFRC label on the window pane.

The NFRC label is useful for comparing one window to another because it gives the numerical values the window received in each of the rating categories.

How do the prices of energy efficient windows compare to non-efficient windows?

In general, energy efficient windows tend to cost a bit more initially than less energy efficient windows.

The trade-off is that over the lifetime of the window, energy efficient windows will help decrease the amount of your energy bills whereas non-efficient windows will lead to higher heating and cooling costs.

What long-term savings can I expect from choosing energy efficient windows?

According to Energy Star, replacing old doors, windows, and skylights with energy efficient options can save you up to 15% annually on your energy bill.

What are the take-aways?

• Energy efficient windows help to thermoregulate your home, thereby decreasing your heating and cooling costs.
• Windows are tested and rated on their energy efficiency by the Energy Star program and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
• The Efficient Windows Collaborative helps educate consumers and explain which windows are best for their needs.
• Energy efficiency is evaluated based on 5 factors:
  • U-Factor
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
  • Air Leakage
  • Visible Transmittance
  • Condensation Resistance
• Windows that meet energy efficiency standards are identifiable by their blue Energy Star sticker or white National Fenestration Rating Council label.
• Energy efficient windows cost more initially, however you can expect cost savings in the form of up to 15% lower energy bills over the lifetime of the windows.

Ready to take the next steps towards energy efficiency? Contact us to set up an in-home evaluation.

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/energy-efficient-windows-5-ways-windows-are-rated/

Level Up Your Style Game with New Window Treatments

Window treatments are like women’s bangs or manicures. They can make a bold statement or add a sophisticated accent to your room. Classic, trendy, rustic, glam – play with materials and textures. Have fun showcasing your personal style and accentuating your rooms’ beauty.

You may choose to shop based on your practical needs or your stylistic desires. In either case, you will be choosing both a type of treatment and a print/color/style that matches your aesthetic vision for your room.

First, ask yourself some practical and functional questions. The answers to these questions will guide you to the type of treatment that is the best fit for you.

6 Questions to Help Find the Right Type of Window Treatment

New window treatments aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. As you start to explore your needs, you will find that specific rooms in your house would benefit from different types of window treatments.

1.      Is privacy a consideration?

Balancing your desires for both light and privacy takes some finesse.

A bathroom, for example, feels more open with natural light, yet visual privacy is crucial.

In the case of the bathroom, the window’s main purpose is to allow light in, not to provide an unobstructed view of the outdoors.

For these types of windows, adhesive patterned frosted glass treatment films are a creative option. The pattern of the frosted portions protects your visual privacy while the bits of clear glass in between allow light to flow in.

Want to have more flexibility and keep an unobstructed view? Tier-on-tier shutters are a traditional solution that provides maximum control over the light-to-privacy ratio. Open the top set of shutters to welcome in the sunshine while keeping the bottom set closed to prevent nosey neighbors from peering in.

2.      How much light do you want to allow in?

For some rooms, window treatments can serve a very important functional purpose. We usually think of windows as letting light in, however, in some cases, the ability to block the light out is equally meaningful.

Do you work a night shift and need to sleep during the day?

Imagine creating the full dark movie theater experience in your home media room on a Sunday afternoon. You may see the value in a blackout curtain.

Does the afternoon glare of the sun stream into your home office and cause a maddening glare on your computer screen?  Take a cue from corporate offices and invest in a solar shade.

3.      Is the room often humid or damp?

Window treatments for areas like bathrooms can be particularly tricky.

Most woods and fabrics don’t hold up well to extended periods of time in moist environments.

Aluminum blinds are also a no-go unless you enjoy the look of rust.

Avoid cleaning up mold and mildew. Choose a more forgiving option like faux wood blinds, honeycomb shades, or vinyl shutters.

4.      Are the treatments going in a location where they are more likely to get dirty?

Go into your kitchen and look at the placement of the window(s) in comparison to the sink and to other potentially messy areas.

Instead of having to do an internet search for how to get splashes of marinara sauce out of elegant drapes, pre-plan and choose a more location-appropriate window treatment.

A roman shade dresses up the upper portion of the window and can easily be raised to a level that keeps it above all the mess.

5.      Do you have pets or young children?

Creamy floor-length or pooled curtains are breezy and airy. They are also a potentially irresistible temptation for toddlers cruising the house and looking for something to pull up on or indiscriminately use as a napkin.

Dogs and cats also appreciate repurposing long window treatments as chew toys or scratching posts.

Reserve the long curtains for your bedroom and keep the window treatments throughout the rest of the house child and animal friendly.

6.      Are these treatments a long-term investment or more of a seasonal statement?

Know your plan and budget before you go shopping. Seasonal window treatments are fun and creative, yet meant for short-term use. You may not wish to spend too much on treatments that you don’t keep up year-round.

Save your budget for the investment pieces that you will use daily (think that blackout curtain the bedroom and the solar shades for the office.)

Window Treatment Styles

Now that you have narrowed down your window treatment’s style, the next – and arguably most fun – part of the process is to select the aesthetics of your treatment. How do you want your treatments to look and feel?

Classic

Fabric curtains are perhaps the most common and readily available type of window treatments. Curtains come in many colors, palettes, and prints. You can even make your own custom curtains using a sewing machine and your choice of fabric.

If you love the classic style, accent your rooms with long pleated panels in a floral print. Fabrics can be as light as rayon or silk or as heavy as a damask or velvet.  For a formal, classic look, add a box-pleated valance on top.

Rustic

Vintage farmhouse style comes alive with a soft floral Roman blind or tab-top curtains. Focus on the ease and simplicity of use. Internal shutters in the right wood can also work here.

Modern

Decorative aluminum screens are a new type of window treatment that pairs naturally with modern interior design. The screens are strong, industrial, and relatively inexpensive. Choose one in your favorite geometric print.

Practical

If your window treatment focus is on practical factors like cost, longevity and ease of use, look into blinds.

Natural

Wood panels function much like adhesive patterned frosted glass treatment films, except they add the natural warmth of wood. Unlike the frosted glass, wood panels are susceptible to moisture damage, so be sure they are used in a room that stays dry.

Is it important for you to choose a product that is naturally and sustainably made with as little impact on the environment as possible? An internet search for “natural window treatments” will led you to companies that create impressive natural options including biodegradable roman and solar shades.

Creative

Step outside the box and embrace your unique, quirky design sense. Homeowners looking for a more creative take on window treatment have more and more options.

Roller shades or roller blinds can be customized with artwork prints.

Remember:

Before you go out shopping for window treatments, know your practical needs and aesthetic desires then choose a type of treatment that will satisfy both. Prepare to fall in love with your home all over again.

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https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/level-up-your-style-game-with-new-window-treatments/

Increase Your Curb Appeal: Upgrade Your Front Door

Upgrade Your Front Door and Increase Your Curb Appeal

What first impression is your home making? As visitors approach, do they see rustic practicality? Upscale elegance? Modern minimalism? Historical charm? A home in need of a renovation and facelift?

Try something: Go outside, stand on the curb and look at your house as if you are seeing it for the first time. What do you see? What do you feel? What do you want to change?

Siding, roofing, landscaping, windows and doors come together to create the curb appeal of your home. If tackling all those variables sounds daunting or if your home improvement budget doesn’t cover such extensive renovations, it’s okay. You can still make a lasting impact by changing just a single item: your front door.

A front door is a natural focal point for your home.  Make that focal point work for you by trading out your old, boring door for a statement piece.

There are so many materials and styles of doors to choose from and options for every budget. Hire a professional and you can focus on the fun of choosing the perfect door, not the nitty gritty details of measuring, leveling, and installing.

Ready for some inspiration?

Choose Your Front Door Material

The material you choose impacts the cost, energy efficiency, durability and security of the door.

Common exterior door material options include:

1. Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight and relatively resilient. Aluminum doors will last a long time without the need for much maintenance. They are also inexpensive and can be painted.

Despite its strength, aluminum may weaken under high temperatures and it is a poor insulator. An aluminum front door may increase heating and cooling costs in areas prone to temperature extremes.

2. Bamboo

Bamboo is more than just a well-known flooring and textile alternative. It is also making an appearance indoors. Composite doors constructed of a blend of bamboo and jute are water and termite resistant.

Bamboo’s biodegradable nature makes it a preferred choice for homeowners seeking an environmentally friendly material.

3. Fiberglass

Choose fiberglass doors for their durability and versatility. If you are looking for a lightweight, energy efficient, sturdy door that will last a long time with minimal maintenance, fiberglass should be on the short list.

Since fiberglass is such a popular choice, these doors are readily available in many finishes and styles. Fiberglass doors can even be finished to imitate a wood grain at a fraction of the cost of real wood.

4. Glass

It may sound surprising, but glass front doors are indeed an option. Visually, they provide a stunning and unexpected look.

The trade-off with glass is the decreased durability, increased security risk and heightened maintenance concerns. The hefty weight and substantial price are also deterrents for many homeowners.

5. Steel

Steel is a trendy new door material that feels very modern with its cold, industrial vibe.  Doors made from steel are durable and need little maintenance.

Improve your home’s level of security along with its style when you opt for a robust steel door. Keep in mind that the lower the gauge, the thicker and sturdier the steel will be.

6. Vinyl

Vinyl or PVC doors are formed from a lightweight, sturdy, resilient material. If your focus is on finding the most cost-effective, effective option for a front door replacement, vinyl may be the winner.

With a vinyl door, you no longer need to worry about termites or moisture damaging your door.

7. Wood

The most historic choice for exterior doors is, of course, wood. Although wood doors are still used to lend a rustic or traditional feel to a home, this material is increasingly being adapted to have a place in modern luxury homes.

Wood feels warm and inviting. Its substantial weight makes a bold statement of strength and protection.

Choose Your Front Door Style

Congratulations – you have chosen the material for your front door. Now, what do you envision that door looking like? What style speaks to you?

If you are still figuring it out, here are some ideas to get you started:

Craftsman

Craftsman doors are a slight variation on a traditional solid hinged door. Their straight, traditional lines reflect this style’s no-nonsense Quaker roots.

Not quite sure what a Craftsman door looks like? The signature style feature is the set of 1-3 windows set on the top one-third of the door. The remaining two-thirds of the door on the bottom is solid.

A Craftsman style front door is, of course, often found in Craftsman homes. It feels classic and timeless.

Dutch

Dutch doors are, historically, a rustic choice. Dutch doors were originally designed to allow air and sunshine into farmhouses while keeping all the livestock out.

This style of door is divided horizontally so that the top half may swing open while the bottom half remains closed.

Dutch doors are still primarily made from wood as they have been for centuries.

Modern

The signature of a modern style door is its clean, unobtrusive lines accented by large, minimalistic hardware. Geometric patterns can add interest and are a simple way to make the exterior of an older home appear more contemporary.

Bamboo, steel and glass are all popular material choices for modern doors.

 

Arched

In a world where so many elements are straight, square and rectangle, an arched door adds a feeling of unexpected whimsy and historic nostalgia. Wondering where you may have seen an arched front door before? They are most common in Tudor style homes.

If you fancy an arched door, be aware that their unique shape means that they are usually custom ordered and built to fit rather than mass-produced to a standard spec size. This raises their cost.

What Do I Do Next?

You have a good idea of what material and style you would like for your new front door. So, in order to upgrade your front door, the next step is to contact a professional company, ask some final product questions and get an estimate on the cost of the door and installation.

If you are absolutely committed to installing the door yourself, read up on how to properly measure for a door prior to placing your order.

Take some before and after photos because this is a transformation that you will want to remember and share.

 

 

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What is the best way to clean windows?

Ask most homeowners if there is anything they dislike about their large windows, and invariably one of the top responses will be: cleaning them. This twice-yearly task is an often-dreaded part of home maintenance. Window washing sounds relatively straightforward, but professional washers use very specific techniques.

Very few people know the best way to clean windows.

Too many homeowners have invested time and effort into cleaning their windows only to realize on the next sunny day that streaks and grime still mar their view.

Don’t be one of these unfortunate homeowners. Learn from others’ mistakes and set yourself up for success when you put into practice these tried and true window cleaning tips:

Use the best window cleaning solution

To fully remove built-up dirt and grime from your windows, you need to use the right cleaning solution. The best window cleaning solutions are heavy-duty enough to provide results yet gentle enough to not damage window frames, trim or your home’s siding.

Commercial solutions are available, but not necessary. Homemade solutions are inexpensive, more environmentally friendly and easy to make.

The most effective DIY window cleaner has just three everyday ingredients:

• Water
• White vinegar
• Dish detergent

Vinegar, especially white vinegar, is acidic. The acid helps to loosen stuck on dirt, tree pitch, and residue from previous cleaners. It also helps to minimize and avoid streaks.

Many DIY cleaner recipes use water and vinegar. However, the addition of dish detergent is critical to window cleaning success. The dish detergent contains soap which acts as an emulsifier. The soap helps lift the loosened debris and allow it, as well as oils, to mix with the water. The whole mixture can then be rinsed off leaving behind a sparkling clean window pane.

To make your window cleaner:

• In a large bucket, mix 1 part white vinegar and eight parts water.
• Add roughly one teaspoon of dish detergent for every 4 cups of water.

Use the most effective window cleaning tools

Before getting started on your window cleaning project, ensure you have all the tools and equipment you will need.

The basics include:

• One bucket of window cleaning solution (either homemade or commercial)
• One bottle of general household cleaner (safe for use on your interior and exterior window frame materials)
• Natural sponge
• Microfiber strip applicator/window scrubber (able to be placed on extension pole if needed)
• High-quality rubber-edged squeegee (able to be placed on extension pole if needed)
• Chamois cloth(s)
• Lint-free cloth(s)
• Soft-bristle brush
• Squeegee extension pole (if needed for tall or second story windows)
• Ladder (if needed for tall or second story windows)

Choose the right day to clean

The first tip professional window cleaners will give to schedule your cleaning for a cloudy day or a time of day when the windows are not in direct sunlight. The faster the window dries, the higher the likelihood that the cleaner will dry on the window before you can remove it.

Don’t skip the prep work

It is tempting to dive right into cleaning the glass because, after all, that is the part of your windows that is generally most noticeably dirty.

Before tackling the glass, turn your attention to everything surrounding the glass.

Your interior window frames are likely coated in a layer of dust. Exterior frames may have cobwebs, leaves, dirt and other debris wedged in the corners. Take care of these issues first so that you don’t drag extra dirt onto the panes when you are cleaning them.

Use the soft-bristle brush to remove debris from your exterior frame gently. Wipe both the interior and exterior frames using a lint-free cloth and household cleaner.

Now that your frames are clean, it is time to move on to washing your windows.

Learn your technique from the pros

Expert window washers make their technique look like a fluid dance. Watch them in action, and you will see that the best professionals don’t move their applicators and squeegees at right angles, but instead use an “s” or “snake” pattern that helps prevent streaking.

The basic window washing process used by the pros is:

1. Apply cleaning solution and scrub away dirt using the microfiber strip applicator/window scrubber (for picture windows) or natural sponge (for multi-pane windows).
2. Remove cleaning solution using a wet squeegee and an s/snake pattern.
   • Using a wet squeegee instead of a dry one will help keep it from skipping on the glass.
3. Use a chamois cloth to soak up any residual water in the corners of the window.

Remember to clean all parts of the windows, not just the panes

The panes are the first place we notice dirt since we look through the glass. That doesn’t mean that we are done cleaning once the glass is sparkling.

The act of window cleaning is more all-encompassing than that. The next time you tackle window cleaning, go the distance and remember these often-forgotten areas:

• Blinds
  • Clean with simple tongs and microfiber towels trick that saves a lot of time and headache
• Window treatments
  • Wash and dry
• Hardware
  • Dust and lightly oil if needed
• Tracks
  • Vacuum
  • Clean using household cleaner and a foam paintbrush of the same diameter as your track depth
  • Lightly oil if needed
• Screens
  • Remove dust with a lint roller

Use this opportunity to check for any maintenance needs

Pair your semiannual window cleanings with your spring and fall window inspections. While you are cleaning the windows and frames, be alert for any of the signs that your window seals have failed or that your windows need to be replaced or repaired.

Taking the time for proper cleaning and maintenance will pay dividends by improving the look of your home and extending the life of your windows.

Mix up some cleaning solution, order yourself a deluxe squeegee and start practicing those “s” patterns. Your windows will thank you.

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Top Tips to Pick the Best New Home Door

Discover 4 Elements at https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/4-factors-to-consider-when-choosing-a-new-door/ You Must Consider If You Will Change Or Incorporate A Door To Your Residence. A door can easily give numerous points in a home-- safety, thermal barrier, privacy or even possibly an aesthetic focus. The key reason for your door, your budget, the style of your residence and your tastes will certainly all play a role in selecting a new door. Chicago Window Guys serves the Chicago area including north of Lake Bluff and south of Alsip. Call us today for a free quote +(847) 701-4011.

6 Most Common Home Window Problems You Can Encounter

These Are actually The 6 Most Common Window Issues You Can Run Into at https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/6-common-window-problems-to-watch-out-for/ . As you perform routine window maintenance on your residence, it is critical to watch for signs of prospective problems. Through finding little troubles before they become a considerable problem, you can conserve on your time and money. When it is time to buy a brand new home, knowing what to search for in relations to window wellness can additionally be helpful.

6 Spring Remodeling Ideas to Refresh Your Home

Refresh Your Home This Spring With This Remodeling Ideas

The last bit of winter is almost over and spring is nearly here. Spring is a time of new beginnings and this may explain why we naturally feel drawn to clean and refresh our homes during the spring season. If you are feeling the urge to spruce up your home this season, here are some spring remodeling ideas to get you started:

Remodel Your Kitchen

Whether you enjoy spending a lot of time in your kitchen or you are in the process of preparing to sell your home, a kitchen remodel could work wonders for you.

Yes, a full-scale remodel complete with new countertops, flooring and cabinets can be a bit on the expensive side, but if it works in your budget, the impact will be impressive. Your home will look and feel better, plus its resale value will increase since one of the things buyers tend to look for is an updated kitchen.

Don’t have the budget to tackle a complete renovation? Try something less expensive but still impactful when you paint your existing cabinets, add a backsplash, or change out the cabinet hardware. These little details will quickly update your kitchen’s visual appeal without the sticker shock.

 

Invest in Wood Flooring

Imagine floors that look stunning, don’t hold on to allergy-triggering dust and dander, and are easy to clean. Wood is a classic flooring material that is still a winning choice for both aesthetic and practical reasons.

If you are nervous about wood floors because you have heard that you can’t use them throughout your whole home, don’t worry. Wood flooring can be placed in nearly any room of your home provided you choose the correct type.

If you are planning to replace flooring in a room that has moisture and/or temperature fluctuations, has a concrete subfloor or has heated flooring, your best option is engineered flooring. This type of flooring is made of multiple thin layers of wood which are bonded together and topped in a layer of your chosen wood species. The multiple layers allow for more flexing to occur without warping the plank. An engineered floor is resilient and can withstand more challenging climate conditions than a solid wood floor. Solid wood floors are a good choice for rooms with stable climates and plywood subfloors.

Regardless of which style of wood floor you choose, you will have extensive freedom of customization when you select your wood species, plank width, wood grade and finish. With all of the options out there, you are sure to find the perfect fit for your home.

Change Up Your Interior Color Scheme

One of the most cost-effective ways to create a stunning new look in your home is through the use of color. Determine what you want to feel when you enter a particular room of your home, and then use color to help you achieve that impact.

When deciding how to incorporate your exciting new colors, consider such mediums as your walls, wall hangings, centerpieces, lamps, throw pillows, duvet covers, chair cushions, towels and window treatments.

Little dashes of color can go a long way and depending on how they are incorporated, they can be changed for each season to continually maintain a sense of freshness throughout your home.

Refresh Your Exterior Paint

Redoing the exterior paint on your home may sound like a massive undertaking, but it is a home maintenance task that should be accomplished roughly every 10 years.

If your home is due for a repainting, make it more fun by considering this your opportunity to update your curb appeal and choose a new paint scheme. Review some inspirational photos and scope out other homes to see what stands out to you.

If you’re happy with your existing paint colors or if your whole home isn’t due for repainting yet, but you still want to do something to make the exterior of your house pop, try something simple. Paint your front door a statement color. If you have window shutters, try painting the shutters to match the door. This little bit of color sets off the house like bright throw pillows on a neutral tan couch.

Upgrade your Windows

As you clean and inspect your windows following a long winter, you may notice signs that it is time to purchase new windows. If your dual or triple pane windows have condensation between them, if your windows are cracked/warped, or if your energy bills are increasing for no other apparent reason, the time has come to consider replacement windows.

When you contact us for a quote, let us know what type of windows you are interested in. While you are replacing your windows, you may be interested in embracing one of the top window trends. Current styles are seeing a resurgence of clean, modern lines in dramatic frame colors accented by brass hardware.

Even if your windows haven’t reached the end of their useful life, an upgrade can give you a window style that is more in tune with you and your needs. For example, what type of window do you have in your master bathroom? How do you balance allowing plenty of sunlight in while still maintaining your privacy? An innovative option that provides that balance is a decorative glass window. The pattern provides privacy while still allowing plenty of light to pass through.

Install a Patio Door

Before summer arrives, plan for all the outdoor barbecues and backyard parties you want to host by finally building that patio and installing a door to it. Patios are the perfect relaxed place for entertaining summer guests while the kids play in the yard.

Connect your patio to your home with either a French or sliding door. The particular door you choose will depend on your stylistic and functional preferences as well as the design of your home. In either case, a patio door will provide that transition from indoors to outdoors and encourage you and your family to enjoy the warmer weather that is just around the corner.

 

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Bay Windows Vs Bow Windows: Know The Difference & Pick The Right Style

Discover The Difference Between Bay and Bow Windows and Pick The Right Style For Your Home

We get it – there are so many window styles out there that it is hard to keep them all straight. Some windows like “bay” and “bow” have such similar names and styles that it is even more complicated to sort out their differences.

What is a Bay Window?

A bay window is a protruding window that usually consists of 3 panes set up in an angled configuration. The center pane is fixed while the side panes may be either fixed or vented. Bay windows tend to have a contemporary, modern feel.

What is a Bow Window?

A bow window also protrudes from the side of the house. It typically has 4 or 5 smaller panes which fit together to create a gently rounded appearance. The panes may all be fixed or vented. Traditionally, bow windows speak to the Victorian style of architecture and are often used to evoke a sense of vintage charm.

Comparison of Bay and Bow Windows

One of the primary purposes of a window is to allow natural light to enter the home. The larger the pane size and the more panes a window has, the more light it lets in. Light streams in through the many panes of a bow window while a bay window isn’t quite as sunny.

Part of the appeal of any sort of protruding window in a home is the additional interior space that is gained. If you imagine yourself providing a few sun-loving plants with a happy home in your new window, a bow window will suit your needs just fine. For the bookworm who envisions curling up on windowsill cushion to savor a good book and a cup of tea, a bay window offers a much more comfortable and spacious porch.

Some homes have limited amounts of wall space or feature floorplans that flow more smoothly with some window configurations than others. Bay windows are a good choice if you are in the market for a protruding window that isn’t overly wide. From a placement and style perspective, bow windows offer an opportunity to do something different. Unlike bay windows, bow windows may be positioned to wrap around the corner of a building to form a turret shape and create a statement nook area inside.

If you have researched your options and are still on the fence between the bay and bow styles, cost may be the tipping point. More openings and more individual panes of glass make the bow window more expensive than the bay window. All else being equal, if you are looking for the more economical choice, we recommend a bay window.

It’s Time to Choose

We want YOU to win the battle between bay windows vs bow windows. No matter which window style you have in mind, we have expertise that can make the decision-making process smoother. When you are ready to price the options, we will provide you with our best quote right away so you can make the decision that is best for you and your home. Let’s get started!

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Save Money: Check for Air Leaks in Windows & Doors

Save Yourself Some Money: Learn How To Check Windows And Doors For Air Leaks

It’s subtle and easy to miss if you aren’t paying attention, but each little gap around your windows and doors provides an unwelcome pathway for airflow.

In the winter, air leaks allow frigid cold air to pour in.  During the summer, your air conditioner fights to keep up with the influx of hot, humid air from outside. Your home’s energy efficiency suffers.

The solution is simple: save yourself some money by learning how to check or air leaks in windows and doors.

Conduct a Visual Inspection

Start with the most basic means of leak detection – your eyes. Using a flashlight to help you, visually inspect the entire area around the interior and exterior sides of your doors and windows. Note any gaps or cracks that you see.

A two-person approach to this technique involves positioning one person on either side of the door or window. Slowly run the flashlight around the edge of the frame. If the person on the other side of the door or window is able to see the light through the frame, there is a gap.

Use Smoke to Trace Airflow Patterns

Smoke provides another visual clue to the presence of air gaps. To use smoke for tracing airflow, first close all your home’s windows and doors. To avoid tainting the results with errant sources of air flow, turn off any appliances that work using combustion – oven, stove, range, space heaters and furnaces.

Create a negative pressure environment inside your home by turning on the exhaust vent fans in your kitchen and bathroom. With the fans on and the doors/windows closed, the air pressure inside your home will be lower than the air pressure outside. The pressure differential means that air will only flow in, not out of your home.

Now you are ready to use smoke to help you locate any sources of air inflow. To do this, slowly and methodically move an incense stick around the edges of windows and doors. In each position, hold the stick still for a moment and observe the smoke. If smoke rises straight up, no leak is detected. If the smoke column fluctuates and shifts away from the window or door frame, there is airflow coming through.

Quantify the Severity of the Leak with an Infrared Thermometer

Visual and smoke-based inspections will allow you to identify the presence of a leak, but they can’t quantify the impact the leak is having on the thermal stability of your home.

An infrared thermometer test will show temperature differentials. This allows you to not only pinpoint the exact location of the leak but also provides data on just how severe the leak is.

On a very hot or very cold day, use the thermometer to compare the temperature all the way around the frame of a closed door and window. If you find an area of abnormal heat or cold, it can indicate a leak.

Fix the Problems

Once you have determined the source and severity of the leak, its time to fix or replace the product. Many leaks can be sealed with caulking. For doors, an adjustable threshold or new weather-stripping may also remedy the situation.

If the leak is more severe, it is time to call in the experts. We can assess your situation and provide a plan for fixing it. Just contact us and schedule a free consultation.

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6 Common Window Problems to Watch Out For

These Are The 6 Most Common Window Problems You Can Encounter

As you perform routine window maintenance on your home, it is important to also be on the lookout for signs of potential problems. By catching little problems before they become big concerns, you can save yourself both time and money.

When it is time to buy a new home, knowing what to look for in terms of window health can also prove beneficial.

To set you up for success, here are 6 of the most common window problems to watch out for:

1.      Window seal failure

Homes with double or triple pane windows enjoy improved energy efficiency and suffer less rapid thermal transfer than those with single pane windows.

Double and triple pane windows also have the potential to suffer from window seal failure which compromises their effectiveness and their visual appeal.

To determine if a seal has failed, check for dirt, fog, haze or condensation between the panes. When standing outside, you may also observe a slight distortion of the glass in the center of a pane whose seal has failed.

2.      Rotted exterior wood trim

Wood frames are a classic and visually appealing design choice for homes. This material also requires careful inspection and routine maintenance.

Exterior wood trim is exposed to the elements and must be scraped, sanded and re-painted or stained as needed to protect the wood from moisture. If moisture is allowed to seep into the wood, it can cause rotting and structural instability.

Check wood trim for peeling paint/stain and for signs of rot.

3.      Water intrusion

If the space between the window frame and the wall is not sealed properly, water may infiltrate into the wall of the house. This is a problem which is of serious concern because if the leak isn’t noticed and resolved, the water can linger in the wall.

Over time, the water can rot the wall from the inside out. Not only will the window need to be repaired or replaced, but the home’s wall itself will need to be repaired and the damage can be extensive. You may also have to deal with mold and mildew.

Water intrusion can be difficult to detect in its earlier stages. Look for staining of the interior wall, especially in the areas by the bottom of the window sill. Feel for moisture in the same area immediately after a rain storm.

4.      Broken or missing hardware

Whether due to operator error or normal wear and tear, window hardware can take a beating over time and may eventually break.

If your windows have hardware like handles and locks, take the time to inspect them and be sure they are in good working order.

5.      Inability to open or difficulty opening

While you are inspecting your windows’ hardware, it is a perfect time to open and close each window. Note if the window has difficulty opening or closing as this may be a sign that the hinge or hardware need maintenance.

6.      Cracked panes of glass

Tree branches, errant birds and rocks flung from lawn mowers all have the potential to crack window panes. Just like cracks in the windshield of your car, the crack in your window may start small and then expand over time as it is exposed to freezing and thawing.

After thoroughly cleaning both the inside and outside of each window, inspect the windows for any signs of cracking and deal with problems right away.

Catching damage early will save you time, money and headaches. Avoiding damage altogether by following a preventive maintenance routine is even better. Simply take care of your windows and your windows will take care of you.

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3 Simple Ways to Tell if Your Window Seal Has Failed

Learn 3 Ways You Can Tell If Your Window Seal Has Failed

Unless your home still has single pane windows, your windows have seals and those seals have the potential to fail. Understanding what window seals are and how to tell if they have failed will help you to catch any problems right when they happen.

What is a Window Seal?

The presence of window seals is one of the key differences between single and double or triple pane windows. Windows with seals are constructed from 2 or 3 panes of glass which are separated by a thermal spacer of an inert gas or a partial vacuum. The series of panes and spacers is sealed together at the edges to prevent the gas/vacuum from escaping and contaminants from infiltrating.

How Can I Tell If My Window Seal Has Failed?

1.      Windows appear dirty even though they have been freshly cleaned.

A broken window seal is no longer able to keep out dust and dirt. On windy days, small particles get blown in between the panes and become trapped there. Small bugs may also work their way in.

If you have cleaned both the inside and the outside of your windows, but they still look dirty, the dirt is most likely lurking between the panes and is caused by a seal failure.

2.      Condensation occurs between the panes of glass.

The purpose of window seals is to create a thermal barrier between the inside and outside of the window so that heat transfer is lessened. When the seal fails, the space between the windows is directly exposed to temperature and humidity fluctuations. Moisture becomes trapped between the panes and is visible in the form of condensation. The condensation is likely to be most prevalent during periods of extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations.

Rather than waiting for the weather to change, you can test for condensation by intentionally creating a temperature differential and observing the results.

If you are seeing water droplets, fog or frost between your window panes, your window seal has likely failed.

3.      The window panes appear distorted in the center.

The construction of sealed windows is such that the inert gas or vacuum pocket is designed to exist in a state of equilibrium with the glass panes. If the seal fails, the gas leaks out or the vacuum is replaced with air. This can alter the structural stability of the window pane itself, causing visual changes.

To check for this, stand outside and observe the window from various angles and distances to look for distortions. The most common area for distortions to initially form is in the center of the glass.

What Causes Window Seals to Fail?

If your window seals have failed, it may be due to defective manufacturing or damage that occurred during shipping or installation.

Extreme weather conditions with accompanying temperature and humidity fluctuations are hard on windows and can also lead to seal failure.

Even if windows are manufactured, installed and maintenanced perfectly, seals may still fail as the windows age.

What Should I Do If My Window Seals Have Failed?

The first step to take if you suspect your seals have failed is to pull out your warranty paperwork and confirm whether your windows are still covered. Many windows come with a lifetime warranty that helps protect you from product failure.

Whether your windows are under warranty or not, we can inspect the windows and give you a no-obligation quote. Contact us today and we will be happy to help you get your home’s windows back to looking and functioning their best.

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