Category: Heatkeeper - page 2

Replacing windows is not really as difficult as you would think it is.  It is not imperative that you hire professional window installers when replacing an individual window.  It will take a little bit of sweat equity, some instructions, general household tools and a little bit of time and you can install your replacement window.  Every type and brand of windows is a little bit different so it is imperative to look into the directions that came with your window to properly install it.

So the first thing you will need to do to install your replacement window is to get together all the tools you will need to complete the project.  The last thing you want is to be in the middle of the job and realize you don’t have everything you need to do a finish the job.  Most jobs will be completed with items you have around the house from previous work that you might have done.  The following is a detailed list for most replacement windows.  Be sure to double check the instructions included in the box with your new replacement window also.  You will need; clear caulk and  caulk gun, a small pry bar, hammer, tape measure, shims, square, level, utility knife, chisel for wood, drill, sandpaper, saw and the actual window.

The first step to replacing a window is to order the replacement window.  You will want to take measurement from the inside window jam.  You will take six measurements in total.  First measure the middle of the window jamb to the opposite middle of the jamb from top to bottom and then side to side.  The other four measurements will be to the left and right of the first two measurements from the center of the window.  You will use the smallest measurement you get.  There will be a difference in measurements from wear and time but hopefully they will be within a quarter inch of each other.

The next step is to remove the old window.  From the inside of the house you will remove the stops and sash.  The sash is the moving part of the window and the stops are the part that prevents the sash form falling into the house.  You will want to be very careful and try and salvage whatever materials you can from the existing window to use in the replacement.  This includes the window sash and stops.  You may need to use your utility knife and shims to protect some materials.  By running the knife down the cut any paint that might have adhered to the old window.

The next thing you will need to do is prepare the frame for the window to be installed.  This will include patching holes, taking care of splintered wood and adding insulation.  You will want to place the window into the prepared site to get a feel for how it is going to fit into the new space.  Once you have positioned it so that it is leveled you can go ahead with the actual installation of the replacement window.

You must first caulk the inside and outside then install the sill angle and secure the header and footer into the space.  It is then time to add the window.  Using the square and level you will want to put the window in place and add shims to create fit.  You will then insert screws into the jamb and the window should be in place.  You should then test the window to make sure it is working correctly.  Slide the window open and closed.  If it is not smooth you will need to adjust the screws.  If the ends of the shims are sticking out you will need to cut them so that they are flush.  The window will need to be caulked on the inside and the inside stops installed. There you have it a finished window that you replaced on your own.

Choosing window treatments for the windows in your home is an important part of the decorating choices in your home.  You need to determine the style you are looking for, the purpose of the room and a budget to better help you determine what you are looking for in window treatments.  When determining style you will need to look at the room and your home as a whole.

Do you have a very modern home with sleek lines, is it contemporary or is your home a little bit more country?  When looking at the purpose you will need to look at the room.  For instance a kitchen window has different needs than a bedroom.  Light needs to be kept out of a bedroom and the kitchen is a room where light is of value. Budgeting is important in any room improvement.  It is not necessary to break the budget for designer window treatments in a room no one will ever occupy like a laundry room.  We will look into these objectives as we explore different types of blinds.

Windows with blinds between the glass are a popular option these days.  They are very efficient and the blinds inside the glass can be switched up depending on the desired look.  However, this option is expensive and requires replacement windows be installed.  The benefits are high though so if you are looking into replacement windows that you would then have to dress up with window treatment this option then becomes a little bit more feasible.  They are perfect for a home that needs a low maintenance window that is energy efficient and made to blend with any style home.  Windows with blinds between the glass are really a great choice for anyone looking into replacement windows.

For larger window and door walls panel blinds are becoming very trendy.  They can be purchased in many styles but gear toward a trendier look and feel for your room.  They are also sold in many different price ranges depending on several factors; fabric density, size and style.  You will find the hardware to install them is pricier than the panel blinds themselves.

Venetian blinds have been and continue to be a very popular option in window treatments.  They offer many advantages over other types of window treatments.  If you are looking for an all around good deal the venetian blind is the way to go.  They offer a style that is timeless and are great because they also offer different degrees of privacy.  You can find them to go with any size budget and are incredibly easy to install.

When looking to add blinds to windows that are odd in shape or out of the way, like skylights pleated blinds are the best options.  They do tend to be pricier than other window treatments but offer the convenience of coming modified to more custom windows.  They do fit in to any type of home décor and are often viewed as a higher end window treatment. Pleated blinds are often seen as a higher end window treatment and can be used in staging a home for resale very effectively.

Roller blinds are neat.  You can purchase them in a variety of textures, colors and prints.  They bring a different look and feel to a room.  Roller blinds can be used to fit into any décor.  They also offer varying degrees of light control for the rooms they are used in.  They are usually a bit more expensive than traditional blinds.  You are paying for a more sleek, stylish and custom product.

Cellular shades are a perfect choice to give a warm feel to the rooms in your house.  You can open them form the top or bottom which is super nice in a room such as a bathroom where you want privacy to be maximized but also to enjoy natural lighting.  They are incredibly affordable and can be purchased in most colors to compliment the décor in your home.

If you are looking for a very inexpensive route for a temporary place such as an apartment you are renting stick with mini-blinds.  They are inexpensive, can be used to create ultimate privacy by closing them tightly or no privacy at all by retracting them completely.  They tend to blend into any style and are really for a temporary fix for window treatment needs.  They are hard to clean but are so inexpensive it is probably cheaper to buy new ones than to waste time cleaning them.

Faux wood and real wood blinds offer the same advantages with different budgets.  They are both very pleasing to any décor and soften the look and feel of your room.  They offer any degree of privacy a homeowner would desire.  The biggest advantage of real wood is that it is incredibly durable where as faux wood can easily get damaged.

When choosing window treatments there are many different options as there are with blinds in general.  Depending on style, budget, purpose and personal choice can affect your window treatment choices.  Look into several different options when looking into window treatments.  You will find that between curtains, blinds and other treatments that the options within the categories can vary greatly.  You will want to look at décor that is pleasing to your eye and determine exactly what you desire for your home. Personally I am waiting to purchase window treatments for my home because I am hoping my husband will agree to replacement window so I can buy windows with the blinds between the glass so I don’t have to worry about the kids and cats tearing the window treatments up.  I have had a cat stuck in the middle of my venetian blinds.

I love taking a Sunday drive in the spring and summer looking at everyone’s landscaping and homes in general.  Curb appeal is everything to me.  I hate seeing reality signs that say, “Must See Interior”. That to me is like a screaming billboard that says the owner didn’t keep up with the yard work.  If I was looking for a new home I would want both curb appeal and a must see interior.

Another thing I love looking at is the windows people choose for their homes.  One thing that does not appeal to me is windows with plastic prairie grids.  Not only do they not look clean but they just cheapen the overall look of the home. The dust and cob webs seem to be attracted to the little plastic squares.  The windows I really think look sharp from my curb point of view are the windows with the blinds between the glass.  They make the whole house look uniform.  I am a creature of consistency so this feature in replacement window really appeals to me.

Another thing I love about Sunday drives in checking out the ways people use the space in their yards.  Some people have fancy backyards that are pristine and make you feel like you are in a story book such as Alice in Wonderland. Their sheds have windows with the blind between the glass, the flowers are all symmetrical and the grass is not littered with dandelions like mine. I should tell you at this point I live on a river and the grass really doesn’t grow and the only thing present in our yard are hosta plants and ferns.  The shade trees that surround our yard kill the Alice in Wonderland theme I crave.

It is always funny to me to drive by older homes that have started to migrate their belongings to the porch or better yet the yard.  Instead of a nice wooden bench to sit on these folks bring out the sofa.   I laugh at the creativity.  In fact my brother’s home is one of these.  Instead of using a wine barrel planter they have planted flowers in an old toilet.  I guess you could say they are the world’s best recyclers.   They do not have the home that you drive by with designer windows with blinds between the glass but instead have different colored sheets hung over the windows.  To each their own and thank goodness because it makes my Sunday afternoon drives that much more interesting.

Think about your own curb appeal.  Do you have the majestic well maintained lawn, perfect brick and windows with blinds between the glass or are you more like my brother; a trailer with curtains made out of sheets and toilet bowl flower pots?  Whatever your style own it and have fun with it.  Remember there is some Sunday afternoon gawker who will enjoy the creativity possessed by your home.  Whether ornate or simply classic homes will appeal to their owners and that is what counts.

How can a homeowner address the need for curb appeal, preserve energy and add value to their home with one investment?  I know many of you think this is a trick question.  That can’t possibly be done.  However, replacement windows can do this for them.  The fact is that the investment in replacement windows can easily be seen with the savings in heating and cooling bills within just a few years.

There are several reasons homeowners should look into replacement windows for their homes.  The following will have you thinking about replacement windows for your home.

The most important reason for purchasing replacement windows is to preserve energy.  If you have drafty windows this leads to the loss of resources.  It is basically cutting up dollar bills and watching the float out the window.  If you are stuck in this situation know that replacing the windows will eventually even out cost wise with decreased energy bills.  The savings is noticeable.  It is also worth investing in double pane windows if you live in a climate that is known for hot summers or cold winters or both.  Another nice feature that is helpful in reducing energy costs is windows with blinds between the glass.

Replacement windows are also nice to look at.  They add a curb appeal that allows your home to appear younger than it is.  Many homes appear older than they are because of aging windows.  Not only do they add beauty but also block out noise and increase natural light into your home.  If you are looking into selling your home new windows can greatly increase the resale value of your home.

Replacement windows offer safety from climate situations.  New windows can prevent leaks and protect your home from damage caused from extreme weather conditions.  Windows with blinds between the glass are nice to protect the interior of your home form damage caused from the sun.  No one wants faded carpet and furniture from the sun.  They can also help decrease noise pollution from outside.  Windows with blinds between the glass coupled with interior curtains would basically sound proof your living environment.  This situation would be helpful in combating excessive noise if you love close to a free way or train track.

It is easier than ever to order replacement windows for your home.  Companies have become more efficient and are offering services that range from measuring, sales, installation and follow up care.  In purchasing new windows for your home research window replacement companies and the deals they offer.  Free installation isn’t free if the price is wrapped into the cost of the window.  Also, if you can get double hung windows with blinds between the glass for the same price as single hung windows why wouldn’t you look into that company further for your replacement window needs.

Don’t allow yourself to fall prey to gimmicks when researching out the best deals for windows.  Replacement window companies are known to use scare tactics in up selling windows in climates that might not need the upgrade.  Make sure you are a knowledgeable consumer and get the best deal the company is willing to offer.

In today’s market sellers are doing everything they can to spruce up their homes for resale.  It is probably that houses can be listed on the market for months before an offer is made.  Sellers who are in a hurry to sell their homes will need to do some sprucing up and offer a competitive price to get their home sold fast.  My neighbors gave their house a facelift by installing replacement windows, adding a fresh coat of paint throughout the house, packing a bunch of the kids clutter up and moving it to storage and having the carpets and grout cleaned.  It was an inexpensive way to make their older home look attractive in the tough selling market.

They had a budget of sixty five hundred dollars which they hoped to recoup with the sale price to get the house ready for sale.  They knew the most expensive but most worthwhile investment would be replacement windows.  To cut costs as much as possible in this area they had a friend that is familiar with construction come in and measure and help install the windows.  This saved them a great deal of money and allowed them to upgrade to a well known brand of window.  This was in hopes to draw sellers in.  New windows are always a bonus with sellers.  Since the house was older and the roof had been redone only a few years before this was an item that would be easy to recoup in increased value to the home.

Replacement windows help with the curb appeal of a home that is on the market but that alone is not bringing buyers back in to make an offer.  The inside of the house was lived in.  To increase the “show” value of their home they took two days to go through belongings and separated the items into piles; throw out, store and donate.  This was easier because they knew whatever was to be kept would also need to be stored.  Only the essentials would be left inside the home for it to be showed.  Many nonessential items were donated including children’s toys and clothes that were too small. They also eliminated many items that had collected over the years such as completed school projects and knick-knack souvenirs.  This process was virtually free so it did not have any effect on the actual budget.

The paint for the house was relatively inexpensive.  It did take a good week to complete the whole house but really impacted the feel of their home.  They painted neutral going with a beige color and were minimalists when it came to hanging pictures and art back up.  This definitely affected the aesthetic value of the home.  Now that they walls were fresh the flooring needed something also.  The budget did not allow for new flooring so clean carpet and grout would have to do. The neighbors finally called in the professionals for this.

Their home was on the market for exactly 21 days before they had an offer.  Not bad in this housing economy.  It was a low ball offer so they countered and the counter offer was rejected.  They were confident with the updates and the price they had the house listed at so they were not overly concerned.  Good thing because a week later and offer came in at their asking price and they closed in record time.

Replacement windows, sweat equity, perseverance and a reasonable asking price will help sell your home even in this tough.  These are all things to think about before you put your home on the market.

We have officially lived in our home for three years. Memorial Day every year marks the anniversary for us. We have updated many things inside. The paint is still fresh, the carpet is nice, we have made the homey touches yet when I look around I still feel like we might be missing the mark somewhere. I go outside I see the siding is new, the roof is new, the landscaping has all been replaced and is growing in nicely but the windows are leaving something to be desired. It is time we look into replacement windows.

After having done many home repairs and renovations in the past we have learned that good things come from careful planning. Mainly finance savings but also exploring options could lead us to make wiser choices. For instance when buying a washer and dryer last year, spending only fifty dollars more per machine got us energy star appliance that were better on energy and tax deductible. This would save us money year after year. We knew the same would be true for windows.

The things we considered when buying our new windows were financial, climate, current construction, resources and styles available. We then looked at the option available and were able to prioritize them. I knew nothing about windows with blinds inside the glass however found this option incredibly convenient. I was able to then switch modes and strictly look at window companies that offered that option. The blinds between the glass became my focus because I knew I loved the way they looked and the convenience they offered.

Financially – Of course blinds between the glass were a bit more expensive than traditional replacement windows. I priced compared several companies to find the company offering the best deals taking into consideration tax credits, installation charges and the extras involved financially with any home improvement project.

Climate – Our home is in Michigan. We experience four seasons; nasty cold winters with snow and ice, spring that brings humidity and storms, summer with its hot temperatures and fall the season of bliss. We needed the replacement windows with blinds between the glass to fit the bill for all four.

Current Construction – I did not want to make changes to the window sizes so they replacement windows with blinds between the glass had to fit within the space already provided by my home.

Resources – The material did not really matter to me. The choices were vast and our home is very neutral so any of the materials would look okay. My spouse though did not like the maintenance that would be needed for wood windows, thought aluminum looked cheap and was convinced fiberglass and vinyl were the two best choices.

Style – I just wanted them to be easy to clean so style needed to revolve around that factor. I did not like cranks because it becomes too time consuming to open all the windows. I was going for ease of maintaining that is why I liked the blinds between the glass replacement windows so much.

In the end the purchase of replacement windows was not all that bad. I ended up with stylish, easy to use and clean windows that have already paid for themselves with the increase in value they brought to our home. I could not be happier with my new windows with the blinds encased within the glass.

When we bought our home we were fascinated by the amount of light let in by the doorwalls. We loved it. The sliding glass doorwalls faced towards the woods so we really never worried about privacy issues. There were no blinds up and we never really gave thought to adding them. The door walls are in fact what sold us on this particular house.

We were perfectly fine with this arrangement until by spouse brought home Sophie. Sophie was a curious puppy who wanted in on all the action all the time. She would see something flicker in the woods and it would cause her to leap up from a relaxing mid afternoon nap and go into a tizzy. We knew right away we needed to add blinds to the doorwalls to eliminate the fact that she could see into the woods day in and out.

We thought we were so smart. We went out with measurements bought fancy vertical blinds. When we got home we installed them not without drama of course. They were a bit heavier than we planned for which made the installation tricky. Plus they really seemed to close off the room and the light we loved so much.

It wasn’t until a few days later till we realized the really big mistake we had made. Sophie of course found her way into the blinds so they did not prevent the intended infraction of her craziness when she caught glimpse of a squirrel. They did however cause her to be more annoying because of the racket caused by the blinds slapping each other as she plowed through them. She also learned that the cords to move them back and forth were so much fun because they played tug of war with her. They were definitely not Sophie proof so we knew that option was really just a really expensive dog toy. We began looking into other options.

We were fortunate because we found and fell in love with sliding glass doorwalls featuring blinds between the glass. This would solve our dilemma with Sophie while still letting us have the option of closed blinds to keep Sophie calm or open blinds to let in the light of the yard which we love so much. The company was so easy to work with and surprisingly the new doorwalls featuring blinds between the glass were reasonably priced.

Sophie is one lucky dog. She brings us a ton of joy and we love her so much. The doorwalls featuring blinds between the glass were the perfect solution to her need to protect us from the squirrels and wildlife in our backyard. She is now able to take a restful slumber and we are too. She no longer wakes us up at night with the rustling of blinds. As for the tug of war solution the cords provided we added a few new chew toys to her collection including a rope with a knot in it for us to play tug of war with her.

Shopping for anything is fun in my opinion. So when my spouse and I set out to find replacement windows for our home I was excited and up for the challenge. I never thought we would be in for so many different choices. I did however think it would be much simpler than it turned out. The choices were endless. It was crazy. Double hung, sliders, windows with blinds between the glass the option are truly endless.

I decided since I have children and pets that I would really only focus on the windows with blinds between the glass. It just seems like a no brainer. I will end up saving money in the long run because I will never have to replace the curtains or blinds again. I cannot tell you how many times my cats have climbed the curtains and ruined them. I replaced them last year because they were so tattered. So that at least narrowed down one major decision. So this is when I began to relax a bit. Little did I know that the options that came next for the blinds between the glass were just as overwhelming.

I know that my decision is the right one for our family though so I will do it. There are so many reasons homeowners should consider windows with blinds between the glass. Anyone with activity going on in their home knows that shade, blinds and curtains get destroyed quickly.

Think about mini blinds. I am sure we have all lived in a home or apartment that had them when we were just starting out. How gross was it to see all the dust, animal dander and built up dirt on the blinds. Then when you would go to wipe it off it just made it worse. Now you had build up starting on your blinds and they would never return to the bright white you originally purchased.

Windows with blinds between the glass are also nice in regards that there are no loose cords. They are completely safe for use within a children’s bedroom. You will not have to worry about strangulation from cords. The blinds are installed inside the windows. This alleviates the issues of cords and heads getting stuck between blinds trying to look outside. I wish we had these when my children were smaller. They are so safe and convenient. Many times I would sneak in at nap time to see my son out of his bed peering out into the yard. I am so thankful we never had an accident with our blinds.

Windows with blinds between the glass also provide better insulation form the elements. They also keep the air, be it heat or air conditioning, in your home better than conventional windows with blinds or curtains. This leads to an energy tax credit making windows with blinds between the glass a more economical choice.

I mentioned the dust build up on mini blinds however curtains are also retainers of dust and allergens. Windows with blinds between the glass help to reduce the amount of allergens within the home environment. People with allergies and asthma are perfect candidates for replacement windows that have the blinds installed between the glass.

Last but not least of course is the benefit of having the latest trend in replacement windows. They are incredibly stylish and can be designed for any home contemporary, modern or rustic. Windows with blinds between the glass are more affordable than ever. I am so pleased with our purchase and am looking forward to not having to replace windows or window treatments for a very long time.

When we first moved into our new home three years ago the main objective with the windows was to cover them inexpensively. We knew we would later update as resources became more available but for now we were happy that the windows and blinds were in place for the privacy of our family. We put up plain white mini-blinds in every room except the kitchen. There we already had vertical blinds over the two door walls so we thought a valance over the one kitchen window would fair best.
Two years into living in our space I started to realize that a coat of dust lived on all of the blind that could not be removed unless I spent the entire day scrubbing which I was not willing to do. Right there and then I decided that I better start processing for windows and blinds that were not plastic or windows with curtains or windows with shades.
I decided the bedrooms were first in my window transportation. My daughter’s room faces the river and knowing she chose this room only for the view I felt I needed to preserve that in her room. She is a sleeper that can sleep through anything light, dark, quiet or loud so I didn’t have to consider options to block light or sound with her. We choose curtains that were shear and offered her the view while able to maintain privacy from the outside in. They had the greatest little sequences on them that helped to reflect the light in the room keeping the whole feel wide open. In our room I opted for wood roman shade. They were a natural option that blocked light and went with the décor. When we feel like letting the light in they easily raise and lower. Our son’s room was a bit trickier as he needs darkness and quiet. For him we found dark navy blue roman shades with a sound deflecting panel facing the outside.
The next room was the sitting room. The best part if this room is the cozy feeling it brings to our home. So we knew that any window treatment option had to maintain this. In order to accomplish this I knew I wanted a natural material in a darker tone but wanted the option to also open it up on nice spring days so the window treatment couldn’t be too dark or hard to use. We opted for a lighter wood roman shade that had a loose weave pattern. This complemented the light, dark, cozy feel I was after.
The main living room has so much light and little privacy. That was a big problem for watching Saturday morning cartoons without the neighborhood looking in. I wanted to be able to create an environment of privacy that could be both light and dark. We choose curtains. We took a sheer brown curtain and used it as the base and picked thicker drapes that can be pulled back for the top. In the day we leave the brown sheers pulled but tie up the drapes. However at night when we are cozy ready to settle into relaxation we shut the drapes and block all the outside light out. It makes movies at nine so much nicer in the summer than having the light blare in. In Michigan it stays light out later in the spring and summer so often bedtime does not seem like bedtime. This option of light control really helps with this issue.
As you can see personal preference has a lot to do with windows and blinds, windows and curtains and windows with shades. It is a work in progress always. Even as I write this I think about different options that lay ahead for the two door walls. I don’t imagine vertical blinds plaguing our home décor for too much longer.

Many people when looking into replacement windows are looking into the windows with blinds between the glass. I have heard on more than one occasion someone mention that they were nervous about the cleaning and maintenance of the windows between the glass drapery options. I did a little research on the Pella window website because I am also interested and I found out that it is not much more work than regular windows but that it is less frequent.
There are three different types of snap-in between the glass window options. They include raise and lower Slimshade blinds, fabric shades and decorative panels. The first step in the cleaning process is locating the hinges for the glass panel. They are located on the top and bottom interior casement of the window. You need to release the latches by sliding them up or down the channel until you hear or feel them release. Then you will pull the perimeter of the frame and this will open to the panel. So far I am impressed. I like that I do not have to remove the glass panel completely. I would be so afraid of someone falling into it if I needed to place it on the ground.
The panels are very easy to care for. The windows with blinds between the glass need to be in the open position. Next you can remove any dust build up if there is any with a vacuum cleaner curtain attachment. If you see any smudges or dirt you may use a warm cloth to wipe away the dirt. However if a major cleaning needs to done, which really shouldn’t because the blinds are so well encased, take a tray of warm water and mild soap and dip the blinds in. You can then rinse them with clean water and air dry them before placing them back in.
Windows with fabric shades between the glass can be cleaned using the vacuum and drapery attachment. It is important that if you need to use cleaner on the shades that you choose a product that has a non ammonia base. Ammonia will damage the fabric. In order to keep the between the glass fabric shades from fraying check them over after each cleaning. You will want to use fabric repair glue if you see that any fraying has begun on you fabric inserts.
It is important that when cleaning the decorative window panel options for your window to pick a day that is cool and dry. If the temperature is high or the hot sun is out wait to clean them. You will want to dust the dirt off with a soft sponge that has been placed in a mild soap and water mixture. You will want to thoroughly rinse with clean water and carefully blot them dry with soft clean towels. It is important that you never rub the panels for they are easily scratched. It is also important not to use a scraper or squeegee. Another tip is to never leave the panels soaking or never power wash them. It will ruin the panels.
I am starting to love the idea of having windows with blinds between the glass. I love the idea if I ever tire of the blinds I can switch them out and replace them with shades or decorative panels. The feature allows a lot of variety and can be changed depending on your mood, the season or the ever changing décor of a room.