What are some telltale signs your windows need replacing? Broken, warped, and/or inefficient windows may be costing you money. In fact, up to 30%–nearly one-third–of house’s heat escapes through drafty windows and doors. Here are some red flags that replacing your windows cannot wait.

1. Your Energy Bill is Sky-High

If your energy bill is continually surprising you every time you open it up, it may be time to consider making important changes around your home. A surefire way to lower heating bills and related energy expenditures are quality replacement windows and doors. The right materials and the best replacement windows can curb heating expenses by anywhere from 25% all the way up to 50%, according to Angie’s List.

For maximum energy efficiency and heat retention, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends choosing wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or composite materials over metal window frames. Vinyl windows hold up against moisture as well, keeping excess condensation and heat loss to a minimum. Awning and hopper style windows that push out and sit snugly against the frame when closed are the best at keeping air inside your home.

2. It’s Very Noisy In Your Neighborhood

Replacing windows can go a long way to reduce noise pollution. For the most noise reduction, purchase double- or triple-pane windows, Angie’s List recommends. Further, weather-stripping that you may already use to cut seasonal heating costs can also help insulate windows and reduce noises from loud neighbors, neighborhood children and pets, or buses and large vehicles that pass by.

3. You Plan To Sell Your Home Soon

If selling your home is on the horizon, replacing windows should be, too. Curb appeal is one of the top factors potential buyers look for and one of the top factors that drives them inside to look around your home. …And, yes, windows matter! Windows with worn frames, peeling paint, or any other visible imperfections lower your house’s curb appeal and lower your chances of getting a buyer in a reasonable amount of time.

More buyers are asking about energy efficiency and expecting greater energy efficient as they view and consider homes. Plus, if your home is freezing during the open house, potential buyers might wonder if that is indicative of a lasting problem–one they would likely have to contend with, too. Replace windows for energy efficiency and to eliminate drafts, and that new level of comfort will help sell your home.

4. You Feel Sluggish All The Time

If you constantly feel tired, sluggish, and just in a bad mood, it may shock you to learn that your windows may be partly to blame. Old houses in particular may have low levels of natural light. A lack of natural light means a lack of serotonin. Serotonin helps us regulate moods and emotions, and having less of it is not a good thing.

Similarly, research shows that natural light exposure–or the lack thereof–directly impacts our circadian rhythms. In return, that affects our quality of sleep, energy, and overall physical and mental health. Plus, people exposed to natural light exercised more on average, probably because they slept better and had the energy to do it. If you are tired no matter what you do, consider replacing your windows with big, open windows that let in a lot of natural light, and reap the many, varied psychological and physical benefits.

5. Your Current Windows Just Aren’t Working

Continually repairing a broken window is like treating the symptoms of a disease, not the underlying cause. Basically, that stubborn repair is going to be necessary over and over and over again, until you replace the window. If your window is warped, continually fogging up, noticeably and painfully drafty, sticking, not shutting all the way, or permanently painted shut, it is time to do something about it. Replace windows to fix the problem for good, instead of fixing it again and again.

Is it time to replace your windows? Take inventory of your home’s windows. Note whether they are driving up your home’s energy bills, letting unpleasant noises in, creating an eyesore and lowering your curb appeal, affecting your mood, or just plain not working out.

It’s no secret that it’s important to improve your home’s energy efficiency where you can. In fact, the U.S. can cut 550 million metric tons of carbon pollution by 2050 just by using better insulation, weatherization, and more energy-efficient appliances.

Here are a few ways you can make your home more energy-efficient to reduce your carbon footprint and improve your energy bills.

1. Replace your windows. Replacing your windows probably isn’t your first thought when it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency. But up to 30% of your home’s heating and cooling energy is lost through your windows. That’s 30% of your heating/cooling that you’re not using. Replacement windows keep your home a comfortable temperature throughout the year.
2. Replace your front door. Your windows aren’t the only part of your house that could be draining your energy. If your front door is difficult to open and close and it sticks during the summer months, it might be a good time to replace it. Not only does replacing your front door make it easier to come in and out of your house, but it also prevents your heating and cooling from leaking out through any gaps.
3. Look for the Energy Star label when shopping for appliances. When you need new appliances, especially larger appliances, keep an eye out for those with the Energy Star label. Energy Star appliances have U.S. EPA and Department of Energy approval for being the most energy-efficient products in their class. A washer and dryer with an Energy Star label can save you up to $100 a year compared to older models.
4. Use cold water to wash your laundry. Speaking of energy-efficient washers and dryers, you can be even more energy-efficient by washing your clothes in cold water. Not only will your clothes get just as clean as they would in hot water but the colors are also less likely to bleed.
5. Replace your HVAC filters regularly. Your HVAC filters are what keep your air clean. They collect dust and debris. But when they get clogged, it can be hard for your system to deliver your warm or cool air efficiently. Be sure to clean your filters at least once a month.

Ready to for replacement windows?

Whether you’re working on a remodeling project or you need new vinyl frames, All American Doors has the replacement windows and doors you need to make your home energy-efficient. For more information about upgrading windows and doors, contact All American Doors today.

Routine maintenance and inspection of your home’s windows is an essential job responsibility of any homeowner. These issues that present themselves may be difficult to detect without a professional. Over time, the quality of your windows will deteriorate and you will need to invest in replacement windows. Here are some signs it’s time for window replacement.

 

Leaking Windows

 

Windows that are leaking and are letting in water can present many problems. One of these problems includes water damage to your wall surrounding the window. Replacement windows will be necessary if this is the case. Simply fixing the wall damage will not prevent the problem from happening over and over again. Seeking out a professional to help you in choosing the best option for replacement windows will allow you to alleviate the root cause of the issue.

 

Poor Window Operation

 

As a homeowner, you will want to inspect how your windows are operating. Regular window operation should work smoothly and with minimal effort. If you have windows that cannot be opened or require a lot of pressure, you will need to seek out replacement windows. If your windows close suddenly or do not stay open, you will also want to seek out replacement windows from a professional installer.

 

Higher Energy Bills

 

If your windows are not working properly or are experiencing issues, you may have noticed a rise in your energy bills. This may be due to issues associated with your windows. Proper inspection of your windows by a professional can help to determine what damage to you window has been done. Up to 30% of the energy used to heat a home is lost through the windows. Replacement windows can help to make your heating and cooling systems more efficient.

 

Age-Related Issues

 

Older homes, especially those with older wood windows, need to be inspected before a home renovation or home remodeling project. Homes that are purchased for home renovation projects are often prone to chipping, cracks, or windows that are in desperate need of maintenance and updates. The benefits of quality replacement windows for older homes extend further than just visual appeal. They can also help with heating and cooling costs, as well as prevent any further damage during the home remodel.

 

Drafty Windows

 

If you are feeling a draft in your home, you may have noticed that it is coming from the window. However, drafts can also occur from doors. If you are feeling a draft, it is necessary to have an inspection of your windows and doors. Replacement windows can help to eliminate drafts, as well as help with heating and cooling costs.

 

Condensation or Cracks

 

Cracks and condensation on your windows means that replacement windows are necessary. Condensation is when a build up of water cannot evaporate properly. Cracks can also lead to excess water build up inside your window or inside your home. These issues will require replacement windows installed by a professional to get your windows back in running order.

 

One of the many responsibilities of a homeowner is to ensure proper routine maintenance of windows and doors. Windows are prone to issues, so regular inspection is essential. Quality replacement windows and doors will help keep your home in running order.

Do you know when it’s time to upgrade your home with replacement windows and doors? Many property owners avoid making this upgrade because new doors and windows can be expensive, particularly if you’re upgrading the entire home at once. But making this upgrade can save you money in time, and that investment will be returned to you many times over. So is your home ready for this upgrade? The answer is yes.

 

Why You Need Replacement Windows and Doors

 

When is the best time to replace your windows? There are several answers to this question. You need to consider getting replacement windows and doors if they are more than 10 years old, if they are made with outdated technology, and if there is damage to them. Older or inferior windows and doors actually cost you a lot of money in utility bills.

 

Perform a simple test to find out if your windows and doors are letting the air out of or into your home. Wait for a windy day. Fill a spray bottle with water and a little bit of liquid soap to make a soapy solution. Now, spray this solution all around the frame of the windows and doors you want to check. Look for bubbles to appear both inside and outside. If they do, then you know that you’ve got air leaks and that means you need to start looking into getting replacement windows and doors. The soapy solution can simply be wiped away with some plain water after you conduct your tests.

 

Air leaks mean that money is literally leaking out of your home every single time you turn on the heater or the air conditioner. Wood windows are especially prone to developing cracks and shrinking over time, which creates costly air leaks. If you’re thinking about replacement windows and doors, consider vinyl windows that aren’t as susceptible to the weather as wood windows.

 

Considering Residential Window Replacement Options

 

When it’s time to think about replacement windows and doors, your best option is an energy-saving design. This will give you more bang for your buck and save you more money over time. New windows will lower your energy bills right away. The U.S. EPA estimates that you can save as much as $501 a year simply by upgrading old single-pane windows to a new Energy Star model.

 

Single-pane windows, the type that is most commonly present in homes built before the mid-1990s, are extremely inefficient. Upgrading your windows to double-pane designs will save you lots of money on your utility bills. If you’re buying replacement windows anyway, make sure you’re buying windows that are going to save you the most money. Upgrading windows from single pane to double pane will increase your property value, so this is an investment that will pay off in a number of different ways.

 

Another benefit of double pane windows is soundproofing. It’s harder to hear thought two panes of glass than one, right? You’ll hear less outside noise, and the outside world will hear you less. Your replacement windows and doors won’t just upgrade your home. They will upgrade your entire quality of life if you choose the right design.

Lake Havasu residents are all abuzz about delivering energy efficiency while providing the perfect aesthetic. There is no doubt that residential window replacement is a great way to cut costs while updating your home.

Very few renovation options deliver the value that replacement windows Lake Havasu has to offer. The savings are measurable. The Environmental Protection Agency recently released that the energy savings from new windows can add up to about $500 a year!

The ROI is Measurable

When you are considering where you should put your renovation dollars this year, replacing your wood windows should be on the top of the list. Residential window replacement services can help you to get the most bang for your buck.

What does the return on your investment look like when you choose the benefits of vinyl window frames and replacements? There are several ways you can earn back the money on your investment including:

• Lower energy bills- choosing new windows means moving forward you will pay less for your energy. If you use the projected $500 in savings that the EPA has predicted and you times it by the next 10 years that is $60,000 in savings over the next 10 years!
• Vinyl replacement windows require little to no maintenance. Wood windows require annual painting and other treatments to protect them. Vinyl windows you can just hose off. That means no maintenance costs. More savings!
• Added value of a beautiful aesthetic. New windows instantly update your home and add value!

There is a lot to gain when you choose replacement windows Lake Havasu residents are enjoying! One of the extra values that you get with new replacement windows is the peace and quiet. New windows help to cancel out the noise from outside and keep your interior nice and peaceful.

It is More Affordable Than You Think

New windows can be more affordable than you think. Choose the window replacement experts that deliver affordable options without ever taking short cuts or compromising quality. This may be the perfect way to invest your renovation/remodeling dollars.

Learn more about how new window replacements are the perfect option for investing in your home. Call today for more information.

When It’s Time for Replacement Windows

Residential window replacement is something that is on many home owners minds. However, knowing exactly when to replace the windows in your home can be a bit of a puzzle. On average, about 40% of a home’s heat is lost through the windows and doors, and this increases to 50% for homes with drafty single-pane windows. Because of this, many home owners are looking for replacement windows to create a more environmentally friendly home and to cut down on their utility costs.

There are a few sure signs that it is time to replace your windows. If the windows are damaged or warped, it is obvious to most home owners that replacements are needed. Though window repair is possible for minor problems, typically a replacement is going to be more cost effective in the long run. Some signs of window damage aren’t so obvious. Many vinyl windows or wood windows might look perfectly normal visually, however, if the windows are drafty or if they fog up significantly, it is probably time to replace them.

Another sign that it is time to replace your windows is simply if you want to reduce your energy bill. Just because the windows are still functioning fine, doesn’t mean they aren’t old and energy inefficient. Getting high utility bills each month just because you have drafty or inefficient windows is a pain. Today’s window market has significant advances that give home owners options to install replacement windows that will help to significantly reduce your power bill.

The last obvious reason to get new windows installed is if your home just survived a severe storm. This is most applicable to hurricane and tornado zones. In addition to the ultra high winds, the extra salt and humidity in the air can do a number to your windows and the exterior of your home. Integrity windows made with Ultrex fiberglass are a great option for homeowners who are replacing windows in a home that is in a hurricane or tornado prone area.

Steps to Choosing the Right Replacement Windows

The best time to replace windows is before you absolutely need it. Once you are ready to replace, the next step is choosing the right type of replacement windows for your home. Here are a few things to consider while choosing replacement windows:

What Purpose Will These Windows Serve? This is an important question to ask yourself as you shop around for windows. The most basic function of a window is to allow light into a home. Consider the area that the window will be in though. Does the window need to slide open and closed throughout the day to let air in? Or is it fixed in place and purely aesthetic? Is the windows primary purpose to give a view of a gorgeous landscape? These are all things you should consider when replacing your windows.

How will the sun hit this window? This is another important aspect of choosing the right windows. Is the window east facing and going to take the sun head on first thing in the morning? Or is it north facing? This is an important thing to consider for bedrooms, where a rising sun might not be welcome first thing in the morning, or maybe it is if that’s your thing. Also, for rooms with T.V. sets, having too much sun can create an unwanted glare on the screen. Be sure to choose glare reducing windows in situations that call for it.

What is the Interior and Exterior look? Consider both the interior and exterior look of your home when choosing windows. This is especially important for window frames, as there are more color and style options with the frames of windows. Remember that replacing windows is not just a practical benefit to your home, but it also offers a great finishing touch to the aesthetics of it. Being conscious of the look of the window and window frames will ensure that you get the great window replacement that you are happy with for years to come.

If you aren’t sure what type of window replacement is best for your home, give us a call. We would be happy to give you a consultation.

When it comes to home improvement, there are many things to consider. Balancing the aesthetics of a home with the cost of the upgrades and the color schemes and the new appliances . . . it can be a lot. However, there are many home upgrades that are kind of no brainers. For example, fixing drafty windows. Window replacement services are one of the most sought after home improvement items because a drafty window can increase the energy bill of a home by over 20%! How long do windows last? That depends. Wood windows will be different from others, but we will cover that in another article.

Today we want to talk about the benefits of sliding doors, another no brainer when it comes to home improvement.

The Benefits of Sliding Doors

While large French doors might look great in the front of the home, when it comes to the back yard or patio door, they aren’t really necessary. In fact, the best type of door to use in the back is usually a sliding door. Sliding doors come with a number of benefits including:

Increased Energy Efficiency: That’s right, just like getting your windows replaced, having a sliding door is going to save you quite a bit of money in the long run. Because of their design, a sliding door helps retain indoor air. Additionally, if you install a double pane glass door it will help minimize heat loss. This is especially true if you purchase doors which have argon gas between the two glass panes, as the gas acts as a great insulator. This keeps the cool air in during the summer and the hot air in during the winter.

Better Traffic Flow: One of the main benefits of sliding glass doors is the ease of traffic flow in and out of the house. This is especially important for big events when people will be moving in and out of the house such as a family get together, a neighborhood bbq, or any other type of gathering. Additionally, if you ever need to move large objects (such as a new couch) into the house, having a sliding door makes this much, much easier.

Added Security: This is perhaps one of the most overlooked benefits of sliding doors. By their nature, sliding doors are very difficult to open from the outside. There is no easy way to “pick” a sliding door lock, unlock traditional door knobs. This discourages people looking to break into the home and steal things.

Space Efficiency: In addition to being energy efficient, sliding doors are also very space efficient. Rather than needing to make space for the swing arc of a traditional door, sliding doors simply slide in and out of a slot. This makes it much easier to plan furniture and decorations throughout the house.

Increased Natural Lighting: Because of the large glass panes that come with having a sliding door, there is a great deal of natural sunlight that gets into the home. This means there isn’t as much of a need to run electrical lights (yay for more savings!) and it has the added bonus of being NATURAL light. Everyone loves natural light over artificial light. Natural light creates a much more inviting and welcoming atmosphere.

Increased Visibility of Backyard Area: In addition to allowing more light into the home, sliding doors also give a great visual field of the outside. This makes it easy to enjoy the beautiful landscape around your home, even in adverse weather. Additionally, if kids are playing outside, it is easier to keep an eye on them if you need to be doing other work inside the home.

Great Style: When people think of benefits of sliding doors, style rarely comes to mind. However sliding doors are very low maintenance and quiet compared to other door options and there are a large variety of different styles to choose from. Adding more panels and side lights are just a couple of ways to customize your sliding doors. This can help you create a beautiful look that is unique for your home, and keeps all of the added benefits on top of it.