Thursday, September 30, 2010

Tilt Wash and Warranty

Tilt Wash vs. Single Hung - When people are looking at replacement windows, the tilt in sash feature for cleaning many window salesmen show customers looks very appealing. Even though most people will not utilize the cleaning feature after the windows are installed, the idea is appealing. Before selecting the replacement window with the tilt feature, be sure to ask about the pricing and performance of a single hung window. Single hung windows are generally less expensive than double hung, tilt wash windows, and offer similar, if not better energy performance. If window washing was not a priority before, chances are it will not be with the new replacement windows. Instead of paying a premium for tilt in windows, check the pricing on single hungs.

Glass Breakage Warranty - Some manufacturers offer a glass breakage warranty on their replacement windows that includes incidental glass breakage. This includes rocks hitting the glass, baseballs, golf balls etc. If the glass breaks, the manufacturer supplies a new one. It is important to check the wording on the warranty to insure it is worth the warranty. Acts of God and Civil Disobedience will most likely be there, but don't let additional exclusions take away from the potency of the warranty. In addition, see the first item above. Getting new glass for free is great, but paying $100 to have it installed is not so much fun.

Manhattan NY • Chelsea • Replacement Windows • Clinton • Window Repair Service • Gramercy Park NY • Commercial Window Supplier • Greenwich Village • Storefront Glass Window Replacement • Upper West Side NY • Steel Door Installation • Upper East Side • Iron Gate Installation • Washington Heights NY • Industrial Window Installer • Murray Hill • Glass Window & Door Replacements • Soho NY • Commercial Storefront Remodel • Inwood • Window Accessories • Affordable Window Parts • Manhattan • Bronx NY Window Company

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Low E-Glass Technology

Low E Glass Technology - Most people shopping for replacement windows have heard the term Low E and are able to use it in a conversation about the windows. However, what many people don't realize is that there are different variations of low e and different levels of performance. Some low e technology is outdated and does not offer the best energy performance. Others offer great performance, but reduced visible light because the coating is much thicker and darker that other coatings. One does not have to understand the complete science behind low e glass, but it helps to know what level of low e (low e 3, low e 4) is being offered, and which one is going to offer the maximum energy performance along with visible light.

3rd Avenue Window Proudly Provides Residential & Commercial Building Improvement Services to the Following Communities of New York :

Bronx NY • Iron Window Guards • Crotona • Manhattan Window Supplier • Tremont NY • How To Install Replacement Windows • Fordham • Window Replacement • Bronx Hill • Custom Window Installation & Repairs • Hunts Point NY • Iron Gate Repairs • Mott Haven • Residential Guard Railing • Pelham NY • Quality Home Improvement Services • Throgs Neck • Home Window Installation • Kingsbridge NY • Affordable Window Supply • Riverdale • Quality Windows • Bronx • New Window Installation • New York City • NYC Commercial Window Replacement • Storefront Construction Services • Doors • Windows • Gates • Railings

Sunday, September 26, 2010

FAQ on Window Replacement

When it comes to buying replacement windows, most people know just enough to not look stupid when talking to the replacement window salesperson, but not enough to know what to look for in replacement windows. Most window salesmen will be sure to cover the questions everyone asks, as well as insure you understand the "bells and whistles" of the replacement window they are offering. However, sometimes it is worth peeling back the surface to get some more information about the windows.

Below is a list of four elements of replacement windows that most people don't know to ask about during window discussions. These are meant to help dig deeper into the window's qualities and better understand the replacement window purchase.

1. Service Labor - Many replacement window manufacturers offer some form of a Lifetime Warranty on their windows. Whether it is "Full" "Double" "Limited" etc. the manufacturer will promise to provide any parts required to fix product that fails under warranty. However, the fine print does not always include service labor. This can be very important because one of two things happen: The manufacturer sends the broken part and the homeowner is expected to fix it, or a service tech is sent out with the non chargeable warranty part. Having the tech makes fixing the replacement window easier, but without service labor included in the warranty, the homeowner is expected to pay a service charge. This can range from $50-$85/ hour. Not having the service labor included in the warranty can make it feel liking having to pay for the replacement window twice.

Queens NY • Bayside • Residential Guard Rails • Little Neck NY • Aluminum Balcony Railing • Flushing NY • Residential Driveway Gate Installation • Clearview • Industrial Door Installers • Fresh Meadows • Affordable Glass Repair Services • Long Island City NY • Window Manufacturing • Astoria • New Commercial Railing Installation • Ridgewood NY • Energy Effecient Windows • Forest Hills • Energy Effecient Doors • Queens • Home Performance Energy Star Windows • Commercial Window Installation • New York City • Residential Window Installation • Discount Window Supply • Custom Designed Windows & Doors

Friday, September 24, 2010

The Right Windows for Your Home

There are no two ways about the fact that house is usually the most valued possession of one and all. If same is the case with you, it is imperative for you to take utmost care of each and every aspect of your house. Speaking of maintaining your home well, windows are one thing you can't afford to neglect at all. Having replacement windows installed in home is known to bring in several benefits. Replacement windows are a perfect way to add to the look and style quotient of your house. If you are living in New York and looking for right Replacement Windows New York, the following tips can prove to be of great aid.

The golden rule to follow when looking for a replacement window is to gauge your needs first. Though Replacement Windows New York come in a varied range, all might not fit your requirements. If you are looking for replacement windows that can help bring down the electricity bill in your favor, it makes sense to invest your money in a good quality replacement window.

The next best thing you need to look out for when selecting a replacement window is to choose the right material. Replacement Windows New York like in other places are usually available in three materials -- vinyl, wood and aluminium. Wood is said to be the most preferred choice out of all the materials. Wooden framed replacement windows are known to bring in a whip of the classic style of the yesteryears, which is far superior to the look that the other materials offer. However, if money is a constraint you can always switch to the next popular material option i.e. vinyl. Vinyl is an affordable material which offers additional advantages of durability and low maintenance.

Manhattan NY • Chelsea • Replacement Windows • Clinton • Window Repair Service • Gramercy Park NY • Commercial Window Supplier • Greenwich Village • Storefront Glass Window Replacement • Upper West Side NY • Steel Door Installation • Upper East Side • Iron Gate Installation • Washington Heights NY • Industrial Window Installer • Murray Hill • Glass Window & Door Replacements • Soho NY • Commercial Storefront Remodel • Inwood • Window Accessories • Affordable Window Parts • Manhattan • Bronx NY Window Company

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Installing Replacement Windows

While windows can be installed by the homeowner, unless the homeowner is a qualified contractor with window experience, it's never a wise idea. Hiring the budget handyman to install your new windows can be an even bigger mistake. Even the very best quality window will not work properly if it is not shimmed, level, plumbed, attached and installed properly. Improper installation is often not readily apparent but if there is a slight flaw in the installation, the windows in which you invested so much time and money will eventually fail to operate properly. It may be a year or two or three, well after the installer is gone -- and so is your warranty. Finding a qualified company to install your windows is well worth taking some time and doing a little research, before you buy your windows.

It is much easier to avoid future problems before you start rather than trying to fix them after they have already occurred. As a licensed replacement window contractor, I have seen the result of many botched installations and do-it-yourself situations gone awry. In the end, you'll be happy that you made an educated decision on your window purchase and will feel confident that they were installed properly by an experienced and qualified company.

It may sound like a lot of information and choices, but if you can get a reputable window company to help you, all these decisions get much easier. A reputable window company can guide you through all of your options fairly quickly while answering your questions and concerns.


3rd Avenue Window Proudly Provides Residential & Commercial Building Improvement Services to the Following Communities of New York :

Bronx NY • Iron Window Guards • Crotona • Manhattan Window Supplier • Tremont NY • How To Install Replacement Windows • Fordham • Window Replacement • Bronx Hill • Custom Window Installation & Repairs • Hunts Point NY • Iron Gate Repairs • Mott Haven • Residential Guard Railing • Pelham NY • Quality Home Improvement Services • Throgs Neck • Home Window Installation • Kingsbridge NY • Affordable Window Supply • Riverdale • Quality Windows • Bronx • New Window Installation • New York City • NYC Commercial Window Replacement • Storefront Construction Services • Doors • Windows • Gates • Railings

Monday, September 20, 2010

Choosing Window Frames

Some other considerations are whether to choose an aluminum frame window or vinyl. The majority of hurricane impact resistant windows are aluminum. It is stronger and therefore easier to build the window to the standards needed to obtain a product approval for the impact window rating. There are very nice vinyl impact windows on the market that do meet code requirements, however expect to pay a premium for them. The difference between aluminum frame and vinyl windows (besides the price) is that vinyl conducts far less heat than aluminum, making vinyl much more energy efficient.

When considering frame construction, keep in mind that welded frame windows are usually stronger than comparable units which are screwed together; this is especially important for vinyl windows. The welded frames help to hold the unit flat and square during the installation process and makes installing them much easier. Welded vinyl frames can also offer a virtually air tight frame construction which again can benefit the insulating properties of each replacement unit. A comparable welded frame will usually cost more than mechanically fastened units but the extra expense will pay off when your sashes work freely and properly without unnecessary friction. There's nothing worse than sticky and poorly operating sashes.

Determine ahead of time which colors will match your home's interior and exterior the best. Decide if you want just simple white windows, or brown or tan cladding. Do you need a tint or heat-reflecting Low-E glass? Do you live close to the ocean and need special turtle glass? These are all important considerations. You must also decide how you want the window to operate and function. Do you want single-hung, double-hung, horizontal sliding windows or maybe casement? Some of your decision will be based on architectural appeal, some of it price, and some of it operational. For example, when choosing impact windows to prefer horizontal sliders over single hung simply because the impact glass is heavy and sliding them open and closed is just easier, and they have a very nice look.

Queens NY • Bayside • Residential Guard Rails • Little Neck NY • Aluminum Balcony Railing • Flushing NY • Residential Driveway Gate Installation • Clearview • Industrial Door Installers • Fresh Meadows • Affordable Glass Repair Services • Long Island City NY • Window Manufacturing • Astoria • New Commercial Railing Installation • Ridgewood NY • Energy Effecient Windows • Forest Hills • Energy Effecient Doors • Queens • Home Performance Energy Star Windows • Commercial Window Installation • New York City • Residential Window Installation • Discount Window Supply • Custom Designed Windows & Doors

Saturday, September 18, 2010

The Maze of Replacement Windows

Before you decide on a manufacturer, it's important to find the right window that fits your needs and wants. Not all manufacturers make all types of windows, so choosing a replacement window first prevents you from being limited to the windows in any given manufacturers' line.

When deciding on the perfect replacement windows, take a little time to decide which features you need for your situation and which benefits you want to include in your new window purchase. A must for many homes is hurricane impact windows. As opposed to single-pane windows with hurricane shutters (or boarded up with plywood), hurricane windows are always ready to protect against high winds whether you're home to put up the shutters or not. Impact windows not only provide much needed protection during a storm; they can also be very energy efficient -- some of our brands can save you as much as one month of electricity. Another benefit is security against home burglary, a rapidly increasing crime in these economic times. The same shatter-resistant construction that protects against hurricanes also prevents thieves from breaking into your home through your doors and windows, giving you total piece of mind.

Another important consideration in choosing replacement windows is that building codes in many areas now require impact resistant openings for your doors and windows. Furthermore, it is the shared opinion by many in my industry that with the way the insurance industry is headed, homeowner insurance will become very difficult or prohibitively expensive to obtain without having the window and door openings of your property "hardened" (i.e., installing impact resistant products). Hurricane windows are definitely worth the investment, and once you decide they are the right way to go, it's time to make more decisions.

Manhattan NY • Chelsea • Replacement Windows • Clinton • Window Repair Service • Gramercy Park NY • Commercial Window Supplier • Greenwich Village • Storefront Glass Window Replacement • Upper West Side NY • Steel Door Installation • Upper East Side • Iron Gate Installation • Washington Heights NY • Industrial Window Installer • Murray Hill • Glass Window & Door Replacements • Soho NY • Commercial Storefront Remodel • Inwood • Window Accessories • Affordable Window Parts • Manhattan • Bronx NY Window Company

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Windows for a Hurricane

Hurricane window protection helps safeguard the most vulnerable part of your house in the event of a storm. High winds can send projectiles flying through your windows. The high pressure that results from the glass break can either blow out the windows on the other side or take off your roof. Proper protection is essential to prevent this from happening to you.

Choosing Hurricane Window

Here are some things to consider when choosing window protection for your home:

o How easy is the product to install? Can you do it yourself, or will you need to hire a professional?

o Consider the cost of the product. If you can DIY, the cost will be less.

o How easy will it be to prepare the home for an impending storm? Are the shutters fixed to the home, or will you need to hang them?

o Consider the areas you need protected. Take into consideration windows and doors. Don't forget the garage door, which may need additional support.

Shutters for Hurricane Window Protection

Accordion Shutters

Accordion shutters come in either one or two pieces. They are permanently attached to the sides of the window, so you won't need to take them on and off the house. They unfold to cover the window, like an accordion. They are easy to close for one person and lock with a key.

Bahama Shutters

Bahama Shutters attach above the windows and are propped open when not in use. This has an additional benefit of providing shade from the sun. When needed, lower the shutters and secure to the wall. This job is easily done by one person.

Colonial Shutters

Colonial style hurricane shutters come in two pieces and have a louvered design. They are attached to both sides of the window and are easily closed when needed. Most use a storm rod to lock them in place. These are good for decoration as well as protection.

3rd Avenue Window Proudly Provides Residential & Commercial Building Improvement Services to the Following Communities of New York :

Bronx NY • Iron Window Guards • Crotona • Manhattan Window Supplier • Tremont NY • How To Install Replacement Windows • Fordham • Window Replacement • Bronx Hill • Custom Window Installation & Repairs • Hunts Point NY • Iron Gate Repairs • Mott Haven • Residential Guard Railing • Pelham NY • Quality Home Improvement Services • Throgs Neck • Home Window Installation • Kingsbridge NY • Affordable Window Supply • Riverdale • Quality Windows • Bronx • New Window Installation • New York City • NYC Commercial Window Replacement • Storefront Construction Services • Doors • Windows • Gates • Railings

Thursday, September 9, 2010

The Right Window Frame

. Now that you're ready to order your new vinyl replacement windows, we need to talk about the different frame style options available. In most of the country your choices are limited to either new construction or replacement frames. New construction frames come with a nailing fin to attach the frame to the studs during the construction of the new home. The replacement frame is basically the new construction frame minus the nailing fin.

But in the west, where stucco homes are common, manufacturers came up with a third type of frame called a retrofit frame. The retrofit frame has a fin about 2 inches wide, located flush with the outside face of the window. This is the best choice when replacing old windows, but not all jobs will accomodate a retrofit frame application. So let's discuss how to determine which frame is going to work for you.

If you have a stucco exterior, retrofit is the way to go. You install the new window from the outside, and the flush fin covers the old aluminum frame that you are going to leave in place. Then you screw the new window in using deck screws through the side channels as well as the top header. We will get into more detail on the actual installation in a future article. If you have a stucco exterior, but there is a wood trim around the opening of the window where the flush fin would normally go, you can still use the retrofit style frame. You would need to remove the wood surrounding the opening, install the retrofit window, then purchase and install new wood trim. The old trim will no longer fit since the retrofit window frame dimensions will be larger in width and height than the old window frame. Another option is to install the retrofit fin on top of the wood trim. You can do this as long as the depth from the face of the wood trim to the point in the house of the innermost portion of the old aluminum frame is less than 3 inches deep.

Queens NY • Bayside • Residential Guard Rails • Little Neck NY • Aluminum Balcony Railing • Flushing NY • Residential Driveway Gate Installation • Clearview • Industrial Door Installers • Fresh Meadows • Affordable Glass Repair Services • Long Island City NY • Window Manufacturing • Astoria • New Commercial Railing Installation • Ridgewood NY • Energy Effecient Windows • Forest Hills • Energy Effecient Doors • Queens • Home Performance Energy Star Windows • Commercial Window Installation • New York City • Residential Window Installation • Discount Window Supply • Custom Designed Windows & Doors

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

All About Frames

Wood frames

Because many homeowners like the look of wood, wood frames are still a popular choice. One advantage of wood is that wood is energy-efficient. Wood is a non-thermal conductor, so it won't lose heat or draw heat in from the outside. The downside is the constant maintenance required to keep wood looking decent. If you enjoy painting, staining, scraping, and sanding, then by all means, be my guest. But keep in mind that wood can also shrink, rot, and warp, which means you'll probably have to replace your windows over and over. This is good for the manufacturer, but bad for you.

Of course, some companies treat wood in an attempt to preserve it. However, treated wood may contain toxic chemicals. Also, wood is expensive. Other framing options are much more economical. So when we stop to consider the cost and hassle of maintaining wood frames, the cost of replacing windows, and the danger of toxic chemicals, wood windows may not be the best choice. Instead, a homeowner may be better advised to consider alternatives that will save time, money, and a tree.

Aluminumor vinyl-clad wood frames

Next, consider aluminumor vinyl -clad wood frames. Like frames made entirely of wood, clad wood framesalso require maintenance, though not quite as much. Aluminum-clad wood framesare moreenergy efficient than aluminum window frames, though they are not as energy-efficient as wood frames without aluminum. And clad frames have been known to hide water infiltration, leading to costly deterioration hidden under the cladding. There have been lawsuits involving this very issue recently, involving well-known companies. Your best bet is to avoid this technology.

Fiberglass or Composite frames

Some say fiberglass is the wave of the future. That remains to be seen. There are some advantages of fiberglass frames. Fiberglass is strong when going against the grain. Since Fiberglass extrusions are made by a Pultrusion process, which is the binding of small glass fiber together with glue. This is similar to the process used to produce particleboard (gluing of wood fibers). The result is that when fiberglass is hit along the grain it cracks like a hot knife through butter. Remember the major damage on Corvettes when they were involved in "minor" fender benders.


Queens NY • Bayside • Residential Guard Rails • Little Neck NY • Aluminum Balcony Railing • Flushing NY • Residential Driveway Gate Installation • Clearview • Industrial Door Installers • Fresh Meadows • Affordable Glass Repair Services • Long Island City NY • Window Manufacturing • Astoria • New Commercial Railing Installation • Ridgewood NY • Energy Effecient Windows • Forest Hills • Energy Effecient Doors • Queens • Home Performance Energy Star Windows • Commercial Window Installation • New York City • Residential Window Installation • Discount Window Supply • Custom Designed Windows & Doors

Sunday, September 5, 2010

More on UPVC Windows

Vertical sliders are a traditional style that many people still opt for as they offer beauty, durability and low maintenance. If you want to maintain the look of your period property then the classic, stylish looks of Georgian sliding windows, without the drafts and poor security you'd get with original ones, is a good option. UPVC sliding windows have triple seals for excellent draft proofing, an anti-jemmy bar for protection against break-ins and resistant hardware for optimal safety measures, in addition to a slide-and-tilt mechanism for effortless cleaning.

If you are building a new house and about to order the windows, or your home has old timber frames that are in need of replacement, then you should consider UPVC as it offers a vast range of styles, and choice of colors including white, and wood-grain finishes of golden oak, rosewood and mahogany. Whatever your preference, from traditional vertical sliders, tilt-and-turn, pivot and reversible to contemporary styles or energy efficient options then you'll find lots of information and guidance online to help you make the right choice.

Interior designers and home owners are always on the look out for environmentally friendly, inexpensive and practical options to wood and wood based products, primarily to reduce costs but also to minimize maintenance and upkeep. UPVC is an low-cost solution for your window and door design, and once fitted should last for many years with no need for repairs and little maintenance as they require no painting or weather-proofing required and will not rot, warp, peel or rust.

UPVC also provides a higher level of insulation against outdoor noises and is predominantly popular in areas located near to busy roads, motorways or train lines. Window systems are generally guaranteed for up to 10 years and available in a wide choice of colors and finishes to suit any building. UPVC windows are expressly designed for fast, easy production and fitting.

Manhattan NY • Chelsea • Replacement Windows • Clinton • Window Repair Service • Gramercy Park NY • Commercial Window Supplier • Greenwich Village • Storefront Glass Window Replacement • Upper West Side NY • Steel Door Installation • Upper East Side • Iron Gate Installation • Washington Heights NY • Industrial Window Installer • Murray Hill • Glass Window & Door Replacements • Soho NY • Commercial Storefront Remodel • Inwood • Window Accessories • Affordable Window Parts • Manhattan • Bronx NY Window Company

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

UPVC Windows Are In!

UPVC windows are manufactured from poly vinyl chloride and contain galvanized steel which is the reason they are perfect for homeowners. Not only are they highly effective in keeping out the cold in winter, they also are particularly good at insulating the interior of your home. UPVC will ensure outside noise is kept to a minimum, keep your home warm and cosy, and you'll save a lot of money on heating bills.

You'll find a wide selection of UPVC windows suitable for every type of new or replacement project, allowing you plenty of options when it comes to choosing quality exterior windows for your home. They are smart, straightforward to fit, require little maintenance and are competitively priced.

Pivot windows are designed for and suited to commercial or apartment buildings. The sash pivots around the central horizontal axis which means you have access to the outside window pane from the inside of the house, this makes them a safe, clean option for anyone with a property above floor level. Their large clear panes also allow for a lot of light to flow in and the chance to enjoy the views.

Tilting reversible windows are another option for multi-storey residential and commercial buildings as they have the ability to reverse 180 degrees outside the building envelope, allowing for full access to the outer pane for easy cleaning. Reversible windows are a safe option for those living on the ground floor of apartment buildings as the glass can't be removed by intruders; they also incorporate child-safety catches which limit how far they can be opened preventing young children from falling out of them.

3rd Avenue Window Proudly Provides Residential & Commercial Building Improvement Services to the Following Communities of New York :

Bronx NY • Iron Window Guards • Crotona • Manhattan Window Supplier • Tremont NY • How To Install Replacement Windows • Fordham • Window Replacement • Bronx Hill • Custom Window Installation & Repairs • Hunts Point NY • Iron Gate Repairs • Mott Haven • Residential Guard Railing • Pelham NY • Quality Home Improvement Services • Throgs Neck • Home Window Installation • Kingsbridge NY • Affordable Window Supply • Riverdale • Quality Windows • Bronx • New Window Installation • New York City • NYC Commercial Window Replacement • Storefront Construction Services • Doors • Windows • Gates • Railings