improvements

Replacement Windows
How do I know if I need new windows?
Like any part of your home your windows and doors have a life-span. Experts agree that if your windows and doors aren’t performing properly, you need to have them examined for replacement. When replacing your windows choose energy star windows. These windows are the most efficient and will provide you with home energy savings.
This is what makes a window energy efficient:
o Improved frame materials which will help reduce heat transfer and help to insulate
o Multiple panes of glass
o Low e-gas
o Gas fills – argon, krypton, or other gases between the panes
o Warm edge spaces
Here is a few things you can look for to help determine if you need new windows:
o Condensation within the glass, this indicates seal failure
o If you have single pane windows you should replace them with double or triple pane windows to reduce energy costs
o On a very hot day or a very cold day check for warm or cold spots that are near the windows/doors
o If your furniture or drapes are discolored you may want to consider an upgrade to a low E coating window designed to help filter the sun and harmful rays from the sun
o Do your windows open and close easily?
o Are your windows warped or pitted? Rotting frames?
Here’s a test you can try yourself to determine if you need windows:
o Place someone outside your window.
o Have someone stand inside with a flashlight and go around the window’s perimeter with the flashlight
o If the person outside sees some light coming through this indicates the seal is probably broken and you will experience energy loss.
Vinyl Siding
Why Buy new vinyl siding?
What is on the exterior of your house creates the first and often lasting impression of your home. Plus, the siding material protects your home’s structure from the elements, mainly rain and wind driven moisture. Siding should be selected based on cost, aesthetics, durability, maintenance requirements, and environmental impact. With new vinyl siding, you will never paint or stain again. The siding will not warp, rot, or crack and it is maintenance free. Vinyl siding does not dent or require painting. Vinyl siding is manufactured in many colors and in a wide variety of styles. It can be made to look like clapboard, logs, cedar shakes or shingles. It can also be shaped in scallops or board and batten, just for starters. Vinyl siding is suitable for all climates. It will withstand hurricane wind speeds and is not damaged by heat, cold or moisture. The only thing it will not withstand is exposure to direct heat, such as a grill placed to close to the siding.
The precursor to vinyl siding was aluminum siding. This was first marketed about 50 years ago as a long-lasting, maintenance-free alternative to traditional sidings such as clapboard or wood shingles. Since aluminum is rot-proof, waterproof, fireproof, corrosion-resistant, impervious to termites and able to withstand years of exposure to the elements, the siding itself will last virtually indefinitely. But, the aluminum is a painted metal and may require painting over time. Aluminum siding is also susceptible to denting and scratching. If you plan on doing home remodeling, new vinyl siding is a great way to start. It will add beauty to your home, protect your homes structure, and it will add a great deal of value to your home.