Tag Archive for: Replacement Vinyl Windows Project

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Pros and Cons of Vinyl Windows

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Choosing from among all the different types and styles of windows available and cutting through the clutter of conflicting “facts” from each manufacturer is an almost impossible job. And there is no reason for the homeowner to walk this minefield alone. Talk to the experts at United Home Experts. They know everything there is to know about windows, and they install virtually every type of window there is, so their recommendations can be based solely on what is best for the homeowner and not on where their next commission check is coming from.

The Advantages of Vinyl-Framed Windows

Vinyl windows can be ordered to fit the exact size of a home’s window openings. This can be especially Vinyl9500-Series_Room-Scene_Interior_4advantageous on older homes which may have odd-sized openings. By purchasing windows that are made to fit a home’s current openings exactly, vinyl windows can be installed quickly and easily with little or no damage to the surrounding siding. Naturally, there may be a modest additional charge for custom sizes, but even with the additional charge, vinyl windows can still be less costly than many other alternatives.

Vinyl is not affected by salt spray or most air-born contaminants. Homes near the ocean, which are subject to almost continual salt spray, have discovered that vinyl does not rust, absorb moisture and swell or cause any of the other problems which other window frames are subject to under similar conditions. Vinyl is also unaffected by air pollution, even in heavily industrialized areas, which is something many other frames cannot boast of.

The Disadvantages of Vinyl-Framed Windows

Vinyl windows cannot be painted. While the fact that vinyl windows come with the color imbued into the vinylshingle-siding itself can be an advantage, if the color is not quite right or if the homeowner wants to change the color of the house in the future, the vinyl window frames do not accept paint well, and this may detract from the overall appearance of a home.

If the vinyl frame is not held together by screws then it is welded. Unfortunately, welding can cause as many problems as using screws. Poor welding can result in drainage problems which are not readily apparent and welds can also allow for air leakage, which negates most of the window’s insulating properties.

Choosing the type and style of window that is right for a particular home and fits into the homeowner’s pocketbook can be a real challenge. After all, a homeowner has several different window frames to choose from and each manufacturer is making confusing and competing claims to grab the homeowner’s cash. Hopefully, the information in this article will equip the homeowner with at least some ammunition in the hunt for the perfect window.

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Replacement Windows Video

Take a look at this well done video from our friends at Weathertight in Wisconsin. It explains their process of installing replacement windows and also discusses things to consider when deciding if replacement windows are right for your home.

The decision to replace windows on a home is one of the biggest investments a homeowner will make. You may think that your windows are good enough or can get you by a few more years. Take a few moments to watch this short video on why you may want to replace your decent looking older windows.

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3 Tips On How To Winterize Your Home

Winter home blog photoWhether you are a new homeowner, thinking of buying a home in Keswick Ontario or anywhere else, or have been in your home for years, you should know the 3 most important tips about getting your home ready for winter.  As the temperatures start to fall, your home will require maintenance to keep it in A-1 shape through the winter.

There is only one state in the United States where the temperatures have never dipped below zero. Hawaii.  In Canada, all of the Provinces will dip below zero.

Ontario Home Inspection Services Keswick Ontario recommends these 3 tips:

1) Get the Fireplace and Chimney Ready

  • Cap or screen the top of the chimney to keep out vermin and birds.
  • Have your chimney cleaned and inspected.
  • Store firewood in a dry place away from the exterior of your home.
  • Ensure the fireplace damper opens and closes.
  • Check the mortar between bricks and tuck-point, if necessary or call a professional bricklayer to assist.

2) Inspect the Exterior, Doors, and Windows

  • Inspect the exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes and seal them.
  • Use weatherstripping around doors to prevent cold air from entering the home and caulk all windows.
  • Replace cracked glass in windows and, if you end up replacing the entire window, prime and paint exposed wood.
  • If your home has a basement, consider protecting its window wells by covering them with plastic shields.
  • Replace any summer screens with glass replacements from storage. If you have storm windows, install them.

3) Inspect Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

  • If your weather temperatures fall below 32 degrees in the winter, adding extra insulation to the attic will prevent warm air from creeping to your roof and causing ice dams.
  • Check flashing around the chimney and along the roof edges to ensure water cannot enter the home.  Caulk if necessary.
  • Replace worn roof shingles or tiles.  Hire a roofing specialist if necessary.
  • Clean out the gutters and use a hose to spray water down the downspouts to clear away debris.
  • Install leaf guards on the gutters or extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the home.

Ontario Home Inspection Services recommends this additional article on winterizing your home in Ontario.

 

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