Author: Jons Windows and Awning

Many decisions go into choosing the window for your newly built home. You may think that you can simply pick any window, and it will work out in the end, but there is a lot more to consider than just how it looks and fits with your home’s style. The windows you choose for your new house directly affect its energy efficiency, humidity control, natural light, and sound insulation. Here are some tips to help you choose the right ones for your home.

1. Ensure That They Have High Energy Efficiency Ratings

If you want to keep your heating and cooling costs down, make sure the windows you choose have a high energy efficiency rating. If you need some help deciding which window to get, it is best to consult with window installers who can assist you in choosing the right product that will suit your needs and budget.

2. Consider the Noise Reduction Factor

Noise pollution can be an issue if you are trying to live in a very densely populated area. If the windows of your house are not properly soundproofed, you may find yourself having problems with noise levels within your home, which can disrupt your everyday life. Make sure that you choose windows with good insulation qualities, specifically soundproofing properties, to ensure that your home is a secure and tranquil environment.

3. Excellent Frame Construction Is a Must

When buying windows, look at the frame construction because this will have a major impact on how long they last and how efficiently they operate. Some homeowners choose aluminum frames because they tend to be lighter and stronger than other metals such as steel. However, you should look for aluminum frames that are sturdy to make sure they will not bend or warp over time.

4. Does the Style of Your Home Suit That of the Window?

The style of your windows should match the style of your home. If you have a house designed with certain materials and colors, then it is best to choose windows that have those same characteristics as well, or else they will stand out as an odd addition.

5. How Big Is the Window?

The size of the window is important to consider because you will want one that fits nicely into your home’s design but also has the light and ventilation qualities that you require for good living conditions. If there are multiple windows in the house, it may be wise to get them all custom-fitted to ensure that you get the perfect look.

Ensure You Hire the Right Window Installers

There are many factors to consider when you purchase windows for your home. For example, the popularity of decks and patios has only increased and was expected to reach a revenue of $783 million with a 3% growth that year. You will want to make sure that they complement the style of your house and meet all of your living requirements. Luckily, if you hire window installers with the right experience, they can help you choose windows that fit your needs and budget perfectly.

New fiberglass windows and doors can greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. As about 30% of heating energy in a house is lost via its windows, fiberglass is a great option to reduce this number. With proper care, they can last a long time as well. Caring for your home is simple. You are a few easy steps away from learning how to care for your new windows and doors.

Invest in Protection

If you have new doors installed along with your new windows, invest in door stops to keep the door from being damaged. For your windows, there should have been “stops” installed with them to keep windows from flying up and banging against the sash.

Cleaning Your New Windows, The Do’s

Fiberglass windows are great because you only need to put in very little effort to keep them looking new. You do want to hose down the frames periodically. All you need to return your windows to like-new condition is to hose down the frames and use a soft cloth to wipe away any stuck-on debris.

To clean the glass, use a “made for glass” cleaner and a soft cloth. You can wash the inside and the outside of the windows using a glass cleaner.

Never Do This to Clean Your Fiberglass Windows

To keep your fiberglass windows and doors looking great, never use harsh cleansers. Harsh abrasives and cleansers can leave micro scratches in the fiberglass and cause dirt to become trapped in the scratches.

Never use sharp or pointed objects to scrape the windows or doors, you can cause permanent damage to the window or door. Fiberglass is a highly durable material that is puncture resistant but not puncture-proof, and it is not impervious to being marred and scratched.

Chemical cleaners containing harsh acids also should never be used on your fiberglass windows. These chemical cleaners can be abrasive and leave etches in the glass. They can also cause the glass to cloud permanently.

Mild cleansers are the best option to ensure you get your windows clean without causing any damage.

Ask Your Installer

If you have any questions about how to properly care for your new windows, ask the installer. The installer has the information you need to ensure you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations. You should also receive some literature from the installer on the proper care of your new windows. Follow those directions closely.

According to our sources, about one-third (30-33%) of a home’s HVAC usage dissipates through windows every day. Thankfully, specialty shutters can help you keep your home more efficient and more attractive. Here’s what must be understood before buying any of these shutters.

Simple Factors to Consider

When choosing interior shutters for your home, you must take into account several factors. These elements are critical because they dictate what shutters you buy, how you install them, and what level of money you’re likely to spend. Just a few of these common elements of your life and home include:

• How much money you want to spend
• Your current lifestyle, including how often you’re home
• The insulation type in your house
• The materials and overall design of your shutters

Don’t forget to consider things like your installation style, the size of your windows, any damage around the window, and any other issues to consider when picking interior shutter options for your home.

Materials to Use

Homeowners looking for specialty shutters have many material options from which they can choose. For example, hardwood produces an attractive and sturdy style that will look great and provide maximum protection. You can also consider vinyl for a lower-cost option, engineered wood for a higher level of efficiency, and thermite for a water-resistant and relatively damage-free option. Don’t forget to consider the interior design and elegance of your home when choosing your materials.

Shutter Types to Consider

After picking a shutter material that makes sense for your needs, you need to pick a great style. For example, a cafe style lets in light on the top half of your window to provide a nice bit of light but a rather high level of temperature exchange. By contrast, tier-on-tier or double-hung shutters are doubled at the top so that you can provide a variety of different lighting and cooling needs. You can also consider full height, tracked, solid pane, and other types of shutters to get strong results. Talk to your shutter specialist to learn more about your options here.

If you pay attention to these three simple elements, you should find it easy to get specialty shutters that meet your needs. Make sure that you work with professionals who fully understand your home and who will give you the shutters that can improve your home’s HVAC efficiency.

Have you ever avoided sitting on your patio because it was “too sunny”? While beautiful blue skies make for the best days to sit outside, sometimes being in direct sunlight for that long can just be uncomfortable. That’s why everyone who owns a patio should consider investing in a retractable patio awning.

Retractable Patio Awnings and Sun Control Systems

What is a retractable patio awning? With one of these custom patio features, you can truly control the sunlight. Use the awing to give yourself shade when you want it and let the sun shine down when you don’t. The beauty of a retractable patio awning is that it can be installed anywhere, on any type of patio. An awning looks great with any type of patio door, from modern to old-style patio doors.

A retractable patio awning allows you to customize your patio space at the touch of a button. When you want shade, you can have it in moments. When you want the sunlight to be able to pour door, that’s no problem, either.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your windows and doors, talk to your local installers about a retractable patio awning that can completely change the way you use your outdoor space.

Investing in Your Patio

Upgrading windows and doors on your home can lower heating costs and help you save on your energy bills overall. It’s a good idea to invest in these important areas of the home, as new home windows alone can start saving you money on your utility bills right away. Professional window and door installation also make a huge difference in the way your home looks. Newer windows and doors can make your entire home look newer and give the entire property a fresher look.

Whether you’re thinking about sliding patio doors, custom windows, or something more standard, there are lots of reasons why you should think about making an upgrade and lots of reasons why a retractable patio awning will actually change the way you use your outdoor space and even help you save on energy costs. Investing in your patio is a good idea.

On average, patio doors will last for about 30 years. With maintenance and service, they can last even longer than this. That means you will be with your doors for a long tie. Doesn’t it make sense to put a little money into them? A retractable patio awning also makes a lot of sense.

Throwing Shade

What’s so special about a retractable patio awning? Well, you can use it to regulate light. That’s important because the amount of sunlight that gets into your home actually has an effect on the cost of your utility bills. On a hot summer day when the sunlight is just shining bright outside, what if a ton of hot sunlight is pouring into your home through your patio doors? Naturally, your air conditioner will have to work a little bit harder as that sunlight makes your home just a little bit hotter. That means your bill is a little bit bigger.

Now, imagine that you have a retractable patio awning instead. You can throw shade up when ver you want to block that hot sunlight and start saving money on energy bills. It works the other way, too. When it’s cold out but the sun is shining, you can retract that awning to allow the sunlight to naturally heat your home and possibly save a few pennies on heating things up. Saving pennies definitely adds up. In time, those pennies turn into dollars.

Meanwhile, retractable patio doors allow you to use your patio however you want. Go out there to soak up the sun when you want, go out there and block the sun when you’re trying to relax in a different way. When you have outdoor spaces that you’re actually using, you’re getting a lot more out of your property. Instead of having gatherings inside, have them outside where it will be much easier to clean up and there everyone can benefit from the fresh air.

Get a retractable patio awning and see how it can help change your life.

Windows play a significant role in the interior design of houses. The interior designs industry generates a revenue of $10 billion every year, and vinyl windows certainly make up a decent portion of that figure. Vinyl windows have become prominent in interior design because of their outstanding features. These windows are beautiful, robust, durable, and energy-efficient. They also have low maintenance requirements. Nevertheless, they will need occasional maintenance to keep them looking good and functional for many years. If you’re looking to improve your house’s appearance by taking care of your windows, the following are dos and don’ts of vinyl window maintenance.

Do Clean the Glass Regularly

The glass is the most important part of vinyl windows. It will help if you clean the glass regularly to wipe off moisture and dust, which make the glass appear dull or cloudy. Use a glass cleaner or a soft cloth and a glass spray to do the cleaning. You can use your own glass cleaner using water and vinegar.

Don’t Use Abrasives

You may be tempted to do mechanical cleaning by using abrasive materials to clean your vinyl windows. Don’t do this! Abrasive materials like razor blades can damage your vinyl windows by scratching glass and vinyl surfaces. Use specialized cleaning products to clean off sticky stains.

Do Clean Your Window Frames

Just like the glass, vinyl window frames need to be cleaned regularly too. Wash the entire frame with water and soap or vinegar solution. This will prevent your windows from getting dusty and old-looking.

Don’t Use Harmful Cleaners

Don’t use cleaners containing harsh chemicals to clean your vinyl windows. Cleaners like organic solvents and chlorine bleach may contain harmful chemicals that can corrode window surfaces and diminish the lifespan of your vinyl windows.

Do Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Clean your windows when the temperatures are moderate. Hot temperatures will dry windows leaving behind soapy residues. On the other hand, cold temperatures will dry the windows slowly, leaving behind streaks. Also, don’t wash your windows under direct sunlight. This will ensure your windows dry properly without leaving behind any stains.

Don’t Forget to Rinse and Dry Your Windows

Windows need to be rinsed and dried as well. After cleaning your vinyl windows, don’t forget to rinse the soap or vinegar solution off the windows. Allow your windows to dry naturally after rinsing them.

Vinyl windows improve the overall aesthetic of houses. Taking good care of your vinyl windows will increase their lifespan and make your home good-looking. The tips provided in this article will guarantee proper maintenance of your vinyl windows.

Outdoor living spaces are important to many homeowners, and in 2017 over 40% stated that they used their outdoor space to entertain guests. However, not everyone is satisfied with their current outdoor spaces, and if you fall into this category, here are a few ways that you can improve it.

1. Improve Your Lighting

One way to improve your outdoor space is to improve your lighting, and you don’t even have to call in an electrician. Hanging lanterns, led lights, solar lights, and fairy lights can all improve the lighting in your outdoor living space and make it feel more comfortable and inviting.

2. Add an Awning

Awnings are another thing to consider when trying to improve your outdoor space, especially if you’re lacking shade. You also have options when it comes to awnings, as some can be permanently fixed, while others are retractable. Retractable awnings can provide the greatest flexibility, giving you the option to cover your living area from rain and sunlight or let the sunshine in when you need to catch a few rays.

3. Add a Fire Pit

Fire pits are a popular addition to many outdoor living areas and they can provide a relaxing atmosphere for gatherings. They can also provide you with the perfect place to cook some s’mores without having to venture to a campground. Some fire pits can even be built-in to use gas and fire glass for a shimmery and unique centerpiece.

4. Add Comfortable Pillows and Rugs

Dull uncomfortable patios can easily be transformed with a few comfortable rugs and cushions. Not only does this make the space cozier, but it can also make it warmer and more inviting for both family and guests.

5. Install a Fountain

Why put on a relaxing nature sound playlist when you can capture the gentle tinkling of water right in your backyard. Fountains don’t have to be elaborate to be relaxing, and even a small fountain can help your patio become a more relaxing place for you to enjoy after a long day of work.

If you’re not satisfied with your current outdoor living space, these are five tips to consider that can help transform it into something you love. The changes don’t have to be huge to have a big impact, and even something as simple as adding small lights and cushions can greatly improve your patio space.

Picking the right windows for your home may sound like an easy job, but the truth is there are many considerations to make. For instance, new home windows come in many styles and have different frame materials, operating styles, and other variations. The good news is you will likely find a favorite window option among the popular choices. To help you decide, here’s how to choose the right window option for your home.

Decide On The Function of the Window

Windows are not all created equally. That’s why it’s essential to first figure out what sort of functionality you need your windows to have. For instance, if you want to create better ventilation, then you might want to purchase casement windows, awning windows, or double-hung windows all of which work well to direct more air into your home.

If you want to invite more natural light into your home, then we absolutely recommend sliding and bay windows. In the same vein, if you want energy efficient windows you want windows that can create an airtight seal, such as fixed picture windows.

This is important because about 30% of your home’s heating energy can be lost via the windows. Therefore, if you live in an area with a cold climate, the right energy efficient windows can help you save a pretty penny.

Make Sure The Window Suits Your Home’s Style

Any new home windows you choose should also be suited to the architectural style of your home. For instance, if your house has a traditional look, double-hung windows are often recommended. In contrast, casement windows are more popular if your home has a modern design.

But still, it’s possible to incorporate both these window styles by installing the double-hung ones in the front, since they have more curb appeal. You can then install casement windows in the back to let more air and light in.

Go With a Flexible, Mix-and-Match Approach

If you are in love with more than one window style, you can still choose them all. However, to avoid having a disjointed look, it’s important to ensure that your windows have a similar design and are made from the same materials. This helps to create a more cohesive look that’s aesthetically pleasing.

These tips can make choosing new home windows super easy. At the end of the day, the right window should be suited to its purpose while matching the overall design of your home.

French and sliding patio doors are two of the most common patio doors out there. There’s a reason why they are both popular. However, it can be tricky trying to sift through all the information available on these two patio door styles and trying to decide which one is right for you.

No worries! We have made your life easier with this quick breakdown of french doors vs sliding glass doors and which one is best for you.

What You Need To Know About French Doors

French patio doors are also referred to as swinging patio doors because of the way they open inward or outward from the center. For this reason, French doors are ideal in a spacious environment. You will often find them in most traditional homes and they typically cost more than sliding glass doors. They can be differentiated from sliding doors because of their wider door frame.

What You Need to Know About Sliding Glass Doors

As the name suggests, sliding doors slide sideways, instead of opening out. They also come with a protective screen that allows you to enjoy the cool breeze without also letting bugs in. The biggest advantage of sliding glass doors is that they don’t take up as much space, so they are always a great option if the area doesn’t have much room.

A Summary of Which Option Is Best for You

Well, as with most things, there’s no one size fits all option. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your needs and preference. For instance, sliding glass doors are a great option if you want something more cost-effective and which doesn’t take up a lot of space. If you want traditional patio doors and have enough space to accommodate them, then by all means choose French patio doors.

If you’re still torn between these two options, you can choose a combination of the two. For instance, with Milgard custom patio doors, it’s possible to install patio doors that contain design elements taken from both the French and sliding door styles.

The deck and patio construction industry have expanded by 3% over the last half-decade. In 2019, it reached a revenue of $783 million. Needless to say, there are many options available on the market when it comes to choosing the right patio doors.

However, Milgard custom patio doors are always the top option, whether you prefer sliding or French doors. Milgard custom patio doors are durable and well-designed. You will never go wrong by giving us a call because we offer the best patio doors on the market!

If you’re looking to replace your patio doors or improve the ones you currently have, tinting is an option that you should keep in mind. Tinted patio doors can have a range of benefits that make them perfect for residential homes. To help give you a better idea of why you should consider patio door tinting, here is what you need to know.

1. Privacy

Window tinting, like the options provided by Milgard custom patio doors, can increase the privacy in your home by making it more difficult for outside viewers to see inside. This can be especially helpful if you want to keep the blinds open for light, but don’t want to advertise what’s going on inside to all of your neighbors.

2. Protection From UV

UV rays can be damaging, and they are responsible for causing colors to fade over time. This can even damage items in your home if they are in direct sun. However, window tinting can block nearly 100% of UV rays, which helps to keep your home protected.

3. Blocking Heat

If you want to keep your blinds open during the day for light, heat can quickly become a big problem. Fortunately, window tinting helps to reflect and absorb solar energy so that it can’t heat up your home.

4. Reducing Glare

Glare can be a big problem if you’re trying to watch TV with the blinds open. However, window tinting, like the kind provided by Milgard custom patio doors, can help reduce glare so that you can watch without interference. Glare can be cut down by as much as 94% in some instances, making this a great addition to any home.

5. Style

Another benefit of patio door window tinting is that it is both functional and stylish. Whether you’re investing in brand new tinted doors or applying a tint to your current doors, it’s an option that can provide a sleek appearance both inside and out.

The Perfect Patio Doors

If you are looking to improve your current doors or invest in new ones, consider how tinted patio doors can benefit your home. Remember, too, that patio doors can last up to 30 years with proper service, so this is an investment that should stay in your home for a long time to come. There are numerous options to choose from, and with options like Milgard custom patio doors, you can create the perfect tinted doors for your home.

The type of windows you choose for your home should reflect your style and preferred quality. When deciding which window type is best for you, the question of single vs. double paned windows often comes up. If you’re unsure about the differences between the two, then this short guide breaks it down so you can make a more informed decision.

What Are Single Paned Windows?

As the name suggests, single paned windows are made from only one layer of glass. However, they have different styles and materials. Although some single paned windows have an extra removable glass pane, generally, they don’t offer as much insulation as windows with more panes. They are also not great at blocking out noise.

Advantages of Single Paned Windows

The biggest advantage of single paned windows is their low cost and easy installation. Typically, they’re an excellent option for homeowners that are on a strict budget. Also, because they don’t provide much insulation, they’re more suitable for warm-climate environments.

For instance, in 2017, over 40% of homeowners used their outdoor space for entertaining, so if the weather is warm, single paned windows may not be much of a downside. If you need to add some extra insulation to a single paned window, you can use window film as a short term solution. Otherwise, it’s best to get double paned new home windows from the start.

What Are Double Paned Windows?

Double paned windows also have a pretty explanatory name – they have two glass panes. Most double paned glasses also have argon gas between the planes for maximum insulation. With additional layers of protection between your home and the weather, you’re not at the mercy of seasonal temperatures.

Advantages of Double Paned Windows

While double paned new home windows are a bit more expensive than single paned windows, they help you save money in the long run. As mentioned earlier, their biggest advantage is the extra insulation they offer. They can help you control the heating and cooling aspect of your home, so you can better manage your home’s internal climate. This contributes to a lower energy bill and a smaller carbon footprint.

Single vs. Double Paned Windows: Which Are Better for Your Home?

Overall, double paned new home windows are highly recommended because they make your home more comfortable by reducing cold air, condensation, and loud noises. They’re also a great way to go green without breaking the bank. Single paned windows don’t quite match up to double paned windows, even if the initial cost is low. However, since they’re not as efficient as double paned glasses, any savings might be canceled.