5 Signs It’s Time to Replace a Door

Quality doors and windows are a requirement for any home. Doors and windows are one of the first things people see and can keep your home secure. However, at some point, you may need to replace your door. Here are some signs that you should think about looking into door replacement services.

1. Drafts

Is your door closed, but you’re still constantly feeling a draft in your home? Approached the door and see if you could feel air coming through the cracks. If so, that may symbolize that the weather stripping around your door has worn off, and needs to be reinforced. If air can come into your door, it also means it’s escaping out. When heated or cooled air seeps out of the home, the HVAC unit must work harder.

2. Opening and Closing Issues

Your door is useless if you can’t open and shut it properly. When you’re having problems closing and opening it, that signals a problem with the hinge or warping. A door that can’t open properly could be a fire hazard during an emergency. If it can’t close properly, that means anybody could come into your home without warning.

3. Outdated Look

According to the Improvement Center, vinyl doors typically last about 20 years. It’s great having a door that can last for a couple of decades. However, it may no longer fit the aesthetic of your home. Did you recently have your home renovated? If so, don’t be afraid to update your door, so it can match the overall design on the exterior and interior of the house. You can choose from a range of materials such as vinyl and fiberglass.

4. Security Threats

A door that no longer functions properly is a major security issue. When intruders try to enter a home, they go for the doors and windows. Protect your home, family, and possessions by installing a new door.

5. Damage

Does your door have obvious damage? Are the unsightly cracks and dents? If so, it can take away from the curb appeal of your property. Your door is part of the exterior and one of the first things people see when they approach your home.

Make sure the doors and windows on your home are updated as needed. These features are entry and exit spots of your home and can affect your safety. Use these tips to know when you need to install a new door and contact our team at All American Doors for assistance.

How New Windows and Doors Can Save You Money

windows and doors

Are you tired of paying for excessive energy bills? If so, look toward your windows and doors. These parts of your home can exacerbate major energy leakage, but you can prevent this problem by replacing them when needed. Read on to see how you can save money with such replacements.

Stop Drafts

With fall here and winter approaching, the last thing you want is a drafty home that never feels warm. You can prevent cold air from coming inside by installing new windows and doors that have better sealing. When you have a drafty home, it can cause your HVAC unit to work harder to warm it. The harder your HVAC system works, the more money you’ll pay for your energy bills. When you install a new door with better weather stripping, you’ll prevent those drafts and high energy leakage from happening.

Prevent Air Loss

If air can come into your home through your windows or doors, it can also escape. Cooled or heated air that escapes through vulnerabilities in the home means your unit will have to work even harder to create a comfortable temperature for you. Keep that comfortable air inside where it belongs when you have new windows and doors with proper weather stripping or energy-efficient features such as double panes.

Prevent Theft

Don’t make things easy for thieves by keeping insecure doors and windows. If they try to break in, those entryways are their target. You can suffer major financial loss when intruders take your personal belongings, especially expensive ones. Even if you have liability insurance, some items may simply be irreplaceable. In addition to lost possessions, you would also have to replace the broken door or window.

Improve HVAC Lifespan

According to Bob Vila, your AC may last about 10 to 15 years. However, you can decrease its lifespan by making it work too hard. When doors and windows are properly sealed, it creates an insulated environment where the HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime. Therefore, you reduce the likelihood of having to make an expensive replacement sooner than you planned.

Take care of your windows and doors and know when to upgrade them. With the right upgrades, you can save money and improve the aesthetics of your home. Contact All American Door today for more information on our extensive selection of high-quality windows and doors.

What Does The Window Installation Process Look Like?

Looking for a great way to upgrade your home and potentially save money in the long run? Having new windows installed can do wonders. First, new windows will often improve looks, can allow for better interior lighting, and may increase privacy or other desired attributes. On top of that, the right windows, like Milgard vinyl windows, offer excellent insulative properties, potentially reducing utility bills. Before getting new windows installed, however, it’s smart to understand what the process will look like.

Starting Window Installation Process

First, any existing windows will have to be closely inspected. The window installers will be looking to get measurements and determine the best way to remove the old windows while minimizing damage to structures and any other potential complications. In some cases, homeowners may opt to change window sizes, say installing bigger windows. If so, the structure itself may need to be modified, which will make the whole process much more complicated.

Once the correct size of the windows is determined, new windows, such as Milgard vinyl windows, will be ordered. Vinyl windows are a great option as they’re often sustainable, with Conserve Energy Future reporting that vinyl can be recycled up to eight times. This means you can select recycled windows and can also recycle your windows later when they need to be replaced.

Out With Old Windows, With New

After the new windows arrive, the old ones will be removed. Sometimes this is a relatively simple, straightforward process. Often, however, it’ll take a few days and a considerable amount of work. Besides the windows themselves, springs, sealants, sashes, and weather barriers, among other things, may also have to be taken out.

Some window installation companies have teams that specialize in removal or installation. Some companies use the same team for both removal and installation. Really, the end results are what counts. So long as you find a good window installation company, you can expect high-quality work even if the process is a bit different from other companies.

Keep in mind that the above is a general overview. Different circumstances may merit a different approach. Further, the type of windows being installed, and where they are being installed, can all impact the process. Installing Milgard vinyl windows, for example, is different from installing a glass skylight. Looking for great windows? Check out what we can offer at All American Doors today!

3 Qualities to Look For in a Window Company

The windows and doors market is constantly growing. In fact, according to Global Market Insights, it’s expected to have a 6.2% compound annual growth rate from 2021-2027. If you’re looking to hire a contractor, you’ll want to find a good window company for you. Read this blog to learn about three qualities that you should be on the lookout for.

1. They Have Great Customer Service

The first thing you should see is that they put their clients first. They treat them with respect from the start of their first interaction. Do you have questions? They should answer every one of them. Are you confused about a particular thing, like the features of a certain window or what the price of something is? They should patiently explain things in a way that is easy for you to understand. If they don’t do this, then you should consider looking elsewhere.

2. They Should Have a Strong Reputation

Reputation means a lot in business. You want to find a window company that has a lot of happy clients. Look online and see what kind of reviews they are getting. Do they do excellent work that results in windows that make homes energy efficient for a very long time? Or are they known for cutting corners and having to come back and fix things? Weigh the reviews along with any responses from the company when it comes to making your decision.

3. They Should Stand By Their Work

You want to use a company that trusts their workers to do the best job possible. They usually show that in the form of a warranty. The longer the warranty, the better. If they offer an excellent one, then you should think about hiring them. You also want to find ones that have immediate availability. The last thing you want is to be waiting a long time for them to come. When it comes to your search, take your time with finding the company for you.

Are you looking for a great window company in your area? Contact us today! Our team at All American Doors offers free quotes and can help match you to your perfect new windows in no time! We look forward to helping you achieve your dream home soon.

3 Benefits of Wood Windows

If your windows are not energy efficient, that may be a key indicator that it is time to consider replacing your windows. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, around 30% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through its windows. One of the most important decisions that you need to make is deciding what type of windows to install. Keep reading to learn more about the advantages of installing new wood windows.

1. They Can Be Stained or Painted

Windows are not traditionally something that you think of when thinking about the feel of a room. However, the frame surrounding the window can either add to the look of a room or take away from it. One of the most unique benefits of wood is that it can be painted or stained. This allows you to ensure your window matches the overall aesthetic of a room and adds to the feel of a space. And as your tastes change, you can re-stain or re-paint the window frame to match your current aesthetic.

2. They Provide a Lot of Insulation

One of the lesser-known benefits associated with wood windows is that they provide more insulation than other window frames on the market. This is helpful for two very different reasons. First, being insulative helps wood windows contain the cooled or heated air in your home, and minimizes air loss. Secondly, having insulative properties helps to keep outside noises out. This is a must if you live on a busy street and want a quiet home.

3. They Are an Environmentally Friendly Option

Lastly, wood windows are an environmentally friendly option. Timber is one of the most sustainable resources available to homeowners. Also, when the wood windows are at the end of their lifespan, the wood can be recycled. If you are trying to lessen your impact on the environment, selecting wood windows is one of the eco-friendly choices you can make.

Wood windows can be a great option for homes. They can be stained or painted to match the aesthetic of your home, they provide more insulation than other types of windows, and they are one of the few environmentally friendly window options on the market. If you are ready to learn more about wood windows or would like an estimate to replace your windows, call our team at All American Doors now.

When to Replace a Vinyl Frame

A vinyl frame can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. Being exposed to direct sunlight, extreme weather, and improper care may leave the frames on the lower end of this range. With such a range, you may be wondering how to tell when yours needs to be replaced. Read on to learn more about the signs that your vinyl window frames may need to be replaced.

You Notice Drafts Around Your Window Frame or Sill

One of the telltale signs that your window frame needs to be replaced is drafts or breezes being present around your window frame or sill. In some cases, you may be able to feel the breeze on your own. However, if you cannot, there is an easy way to tell if there is a breeze. Grab a small piece of string or light a match and slowly move it around the edges of your window on a breezy night. If the string moves or the match flickers, then air is getting in through the frame or window.

The Frames Are Dented or Warped

Your vinyl frame may also need to be replaced if it is damaged. The most common type of damage that can happen to these types of frames is dents or warping. The window frame should lay flush around the window opening. You can run your hand smoothly over the frame. If you feel any dents or you have to move or lift your hand, the frame is dented or warped.

Condensation or Fog is Building Up Around the Edges of the Glass

You don’t ever want to see condensation or fog building up around the edges of your window or between the panes of double-paned glass. This is a key indicator that your windows need to be completely replaced. Condensation and fog will drip, exposing your windowsill and the framework surrounding the window to moisture. This can lead to wood rot and decay.

If you notice one or more of these signs, your vinyl frame windows are trying to let you know that it is time to replace them. When that time comes, consider recycling the frames. According to our industry knowledge, around 99% of vinyl can be recycled. When you are ready to start the process of replacing your home windows, we can help. Call All American Doors today and let us provide you with an estimate!

Why You Should Leave Window Replacement to the Professionals

replacement windows

Old or damaged windows are significant liabilities. According to the Department of Energy, 25% of the money you spend on your electric bills covers the energy loss caused by your bad windows. You need to replace your inefficient windows as soon as possible. Continue with this article and find out why you should entrust the installation of those replacement windows to professionals.

Professionals Can Safely Install Your Replacement Windows

Many homeowners assume they can handle window replacement just fine because they don’t see it as perilous. They underestimate how fragile glass is and assume that even a shattered window is no big deal. Your perspective on that may change quickly if the glass shatters in your hands. Consider yourself lucky if you can walk away from that incident with minor scratches.

Window installation becomes an even more hazardous task if you have to replace a window on an upper floor. You may fail to secure the ladder properly and fall while trying to set the new window in place. DIY window replacement carries considerable risk. Avoid exposing yourself to that risk by hiring professional window installers.

Professionals Ensure Your Replacement Windows Are Properly Installed

What’s the main reason you’re contemplating installing replacement windows yourself? In all likelihood, cost is your main motivating factor. You want to minimize the costs of getting new windows by taking on the task of installation.

Of course, realizing those cost savings is only possible if you can get the installation right the first time. Given how complicated window installation can be, that outcome is far from guaranteed. It’s easy to make mistakes while aligning or sealing your new windows. You may need to purchase more windows if your initial replacements sustain damage. Save money on window replacement by hiring professionals. They’ll properly set your new windows in place right from the start. The installers can even save you valuable time.

Professionals Can Help You Obtain the Necessary Building Permits

Securing a building permit is necessary if your window replacement project also involves altering the structure of your home. Most homeowners have no experience getting those building permits. Your project may drag on longer than expected because you’re having difficulty with the permit process. That’s one less thing you’ll have to worry about if you hire professional window installers.

Getting replacement windows for your home will eventually become a necessity. After investing in new windows, the best thing you can do is entrust their installment to professionals. Contact All American Doors today if you need professional installers working on your window replacement project!

What You Didn’t Know About Hinged Doors

hinged doors

Doors are a very important and yet often overlooked part of the home. Doors are a crucial entry point into the home and security efforts should be highly focused here. That security starts with choosing the type of door you will have in different areas of your home. Let’s look at the differences between hinged doors and sliding doors for your patio.

Patio Entrances

Patio doors are an important and convenient entryway between your indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are several differences between hinged doors and sliding doors. Choosing the right option for your patio area is crucial to overall security and appearance. Many people are unsure which type they should choose and if it really even matters. Yes, it does matter and you should put some thought and research into your choice since you will be looking at the doors for years to come.

Hinged Doors

A hinged patio door often consists of a solid wooden panel or a hollow core door. This will be affixed to a door jamb with two or more hinges. The hinges that are chosen for the door are also crucial. For very large or tall doors, heavier and sturdier hinges are needed. You can also opt for security hinges which add an extra layer of security to your home. Thought should also be put into the direction the door swings so that you can arrange furniture and other accessories thoughtfully.

Hinged doors have many advantages. The biggest advantage would be that hinged doors, especially those equipped with safety hinges provide greater safety for your home. These doors are more difficult to access when locked properly. These doors are also considered to be more traditional.

Sliding Doors

Sliding doors for patios are often preferred since they glide horizontally and do not affect any surrounding furniture or accessories when opened. This is preferred for tighter spaces. Sliding patio doors are also considered more aesthetically pleasing for the patio area.

Security Considerations

According to Daily Home Safety, it is estimated that only 34% of burglars enter a home through the front door. This means that other doors, including patio doors, are more likely to be compromised. When choosing patio doors, it is of the utmost importance that you choose a door that provides adequate safety for your family.

Overall, when it comes to your home, hinged doors are a great option. If you would like to learn more about door options, please call All American Doors today.

When to Replace Your Sliding Patio Doors

sliding patio doors

Sliding patio doors have become a common feature in many homes. Glass patio doors provide you with an abundance of natural light, and they make it easier to access your deck. However, over time, your gorgeous patio doors will need to be replaced. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call a professional for a replacement.

Damaged Frames

The frames of your patio doors are what makes them so wonderful. Once the frame is damaged, your doors will no longer be functional. Regularly inspect them for signs of damage, such as corrosion and dents. When you notice problems, contact a professional to inquire about replacement options.

Outdated Models

Everyone used to rave about wooden sliding doors. Pocket doors and barn-style doors were installed in homes, and wooden patio doors were common. Now, more homeowners are switching to other options. That’s because fiberglass doors typically have an R-value of R-5 to R-6, according to the Seattle Times, which is much higher than that of wood. If your sliding patio doors don’t offer the modern efficiency you need, it’s time to consider replacing them.

Difficulty Operating Them

There are several problems that can result in your patio doors being difficult to operate. This may be due to damage to the frame or to the doors themselves. Often, the components of the door wear out over time. A professional can inspect your doors to let you know if it’s time for a replacement.

Energy Efficiency

Your doors play a significant role in how energy efficient your home is. Older models often consist of single-pane glass that does little to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Modern doors offer innovative seals that keep drafts at bay and thicker glass to help your house maintain a stable temperature. If your sliding patio doors lead to a drafty home, it’s time for a replacement.

Security Features

Sliding doors can be a security risk if they don’t have the proper security features. The locks should be in good working order to ensure burglars can’t gain easy entry into your home. Regularly inspect your doors to ensure that the security features work properly. If they don’t, or if you accidentally purchased doors without security features, it’s time for an upgrade.

Choosing the right patio doors for your home can be overwhelming. The Experts at All American Door are to assist you in determining whether it’s time for a replacement and selecting the perfect doors to meet your needs. Contact us for assistance today!

4 Tips For Creating an Open and Sun-Filled Sanctuary

moving glass wall systems

If you’re ready to create an open and sun-filled sanctuary in your home, we have some great tips for you. Bringing in more sunlight is a great way to completely change the look of a room and increase a home’s resale value. Many people are unsure of how to go about this type of upgrade, though. Let’s look at some options you can use to create stunning yet easy changes.

Skylights

When it comes to bringing in more light, you have plenty of options. One way to get more light without changing your home too drastically is by adding skylights. Skylights are windows placed on your roof that allow tons of natural sunlight to flow in. Skylights will not affect the layout of your walls or the exterior of your home in any way. Most people cannot see the skylights from outside either.

Additional Windows

Another option is to simply add additional windows where there are none. Vinyl windows, which were first introduced to the U.S. in 1964, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, are fairly easy and inexpensive to install. A bonus is that most vinyl windows today also help to increase the energy efficiency in your home. If you want to add more windows in order to create a sun-filled sanctuary, talk with local window experts in your community to choose the best options for your home.

Moving Glass Wall Systems

If you have one room that gets plenty of sunlight and an adjacent room that does not, you might want to consider moving glass wall systems. This allows for there to still be a wall separating rooms, but since it’s made of glass, it allows all of that natural light to flow in. These types of installations should definitely be done by a professional, though. Reach out to a local window expert to learn more about moving glass wall systems.

Decorating Your Sanctuary

Once you have the sunlight flowing in, you’ll want to give some thought to how you’ll decorate your new haven. Using whimsical colors or cooler tones often works great in a sunroom. Furniture should be comfortable and more relaxed in this area of the home. Choose a theme that works well with relaxation and nature.

You can really change your home dramatically by bringing in more natural light. Use these tips to create your sun-filled sanctuary in your home, and contact All American Door today to learn more about how our high-quality products and reliable installation services can help you make a pleasant, sunny space.