Spring Spruce Up, Part 3: When it’s Time for New Windows

So far in our Spring Spruce Up series, we’ve covered, When it’s Time for New Siding, and When it’s Time for a New Roof.  Our third installment of the series is all about windows. Specifically, we’re sharing some critical things you’ll want to be aware of if you’re considering new windows — including types of window materials, the most dependable brands, as well as when to talk with your insurance agent, and making sure you attain multiple proposals.  No matter if you are looking to replace your windows because of age, damage, or just want to improve the curb appeal of your home (for yourself, or if you plan on putting your home on the market), gaining an understanding of how to proceed with replacement windows can go a long way in saving you time, energy and money down the road. GET MULTIPLE ESTIMATES (PROPOSALS) Like any home improvement project, being educated on cost — and understanding exactly what you’re getting for that cost — is super important. It’s ALWAYS a good idea to attain

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Preparing Your Windows for Spring

Thus far in our spring preparation series, we’ve covered preparing your deck, roof, siding, and gutters for spring. In this installment of the series, our focus is on windows. In addition to providing your home with light, and a view of the outdoors, windows are an integral part of keeping your home protected from the elements. One way to extend the life of your windows, and ensure they are doing their job efficiently, is inspecting and maintaining them after winter.  To help you prepare your windows for spring, we’re sharing the following seven highly effective tips … Check Window Insulation Insulation has a great effect on the efficiency of your windows, which is why it’s important to make sure your insulation is in good shape. As a windows contractor, we’ve seen many instances where a homeowner’s windows are fine, but the insulation is not, so it’s definitely worthwhile to inspect the insulation yourself or have a professional do so for you. If you do decide to have a professional inspection, please note that you should

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The Pros & Cons of Vinyl Windows

Last week we talked about the Top 9 Benefits of Vinyl Siding. This week we’ll continue our discussion about vinyl products, with a focus on vinyl windows. When it comes to choosing replacement windows in the Madison area, there is no shortage of options. To begin, there are materials choices that range from fiberglass, to wood, to vinyl. And within each materials category there are many brand options, as well as different series and styles within each brand.  This can often leave homeowners wondering how they’ll ever choose replacement windows for their home, which is why it’s so important to work with a windows contractor who takes the time to understand a homeowner’s needs and budget — which will ultimately narrow down choices to the ones that are best for each homeowner. Before we get into vinyl window benefits, it’s important to note that one of the most important parts of the process is choosing a quality window maker. Saving a few bucks on lesser-quality windows now, can cost much more in energy bills and

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The Pros and Cons of Wood Windows

Wood windows are still a very popular option for replacement windows in the Madison area. This is true for many reasons, and we’ll dive into the advantages of wood windows — especially ones that are well made, with solid warranties — in this article. That said, there are some potential drawbacks to wood windows, which we’d also like to share in order to help you make the best decision possible when deciding on replacement windows.  Let’s jump right in … THE PROS OF WOOD WINDOWS There are many reasons wood windows continue to be a popular choice for homeowners, including: GOOD LOOKS Wood is one of the nicest looking window materials. The gorgeous grain and tone of wood can add to the character of your home, while giving it a more natural feel than vinyl, aluminum or fiberglass windows.  VERSATILITY To begin, wood windows have a multitude of customization options, which is great for homeowners who are looking for something specific, or who are looking to meet a particular budget. They can also be stained

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Five Fantastic Facts about Fiberglass Windows

Fiberglass windows are amazing. Their benefits go much deeper than aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency, which is why we’d like to share five fantastic facts about fiberglass windows, as well as a bit of information regarding the top three fiberglass window brands we work with.  There’s no shortage of companies selling fiberglass windows in the Madison, WI, area, so before we get started with the benefits of the windows themselves, we’d like to mention the importance of a benefit not directly related to the windows — and that’s the windows contractor you choose to hire for the job. No matter which company you choose, make sure they are a local, licensed window contractor. As we talked about in a recent Beyond the Studs episode, installation errors can cause all kinds of problems with replacement windows. Inquiring about window warranties is also suggested, as this is also a determining factor in who you should work with and what window brand to have installed. OK, so on to five (plus a couple of extra) benefits of fiberglass

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