Fall For Windows

Fall is here, Is your home ready for the Seasons!  

Feel Drafts?

First, check around your windows to see whether they’re letting a lot of air in and out. How do the edges look? How is the base of the window? Is your sliding storm window collecting moisture on the inside? Close your windows and place a thin piece of paper near the edges. You can also place a draft snake across the leak. Draft snakes are tubes that are stuffed with fabric. You can place these across the bottoms of windows are doors, but they aren’t as efficient as caulking the actual leak.If it moves, you have air moving in and out of your house. You can usually seal window leaks by caulking around the window.

If you notice a lot of moisture around the window and rotten wood, or the air motion seems to be very large, it might be time to call in a professional to make sure that your windows and frames are structurally sound.

Placing Barriers Across the Windows

To prevent heat from moving out of the windows, you can place a barrier across the windows. If you have blackout blinds from the summer, these thick blinds work well as a window barrier during the winter. Keep them closed as much as possible. Cellular shades also act as a window barrier, providing some entry for the light while keeping windows from losing a lot of heat. You can also place a thick layer of window film plastic across your windows. This plastic acts as a temporary barrier to seal up the window for the winter and can be removed when the weather warms up.

The Blower Door Test

Perhaps your windows aren’t your biggest source of energy leakage. If you’d like to determine how to make your entire house more energy efficient, you can find the sources of leaks using a blower door test. This test is done by a professional and reveals where air moves in and out of your house.

Take the time to do these 3 basic checks, you will be happy you did. This season don't let your heat go out the window!

Time For Storm Windows

If you are looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home, as well as to enjoy other added benefits, then you should consider purchasing and installing storm windows. By using storm windows on your existing windows, rather than replacing the windows with completely new ones, you will be able to reap many of the benefits that replacement windows offer without some of the drawbacks, expense and hassle. This makes storm window installation an intelligent addition to your home.

Storm windows are energy efficient. By installing storm windows along with your existing windows, the storm windows help to make your house more energy efficient. Storm windows reduce drafts by providing an airtight seal around your windows. This seal keeps heat from the interior home inside the house and stops cold air from the exterior from seeping inside. By reducing air leaks, you increase efficiency.

Storm windows keep your home cleaner. The airtight seal, in addition to conserving energy, also prevents dust, dirt, sand, soot, air pollution and other small particles from coming in through any cracks or joints in your existing windows.

Storm windows keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. The thermal barrier created by storm windows keeps warm air in your home and cool exterior air out in the cooler months and conversely keeps cooler air in your home and warmer air out in the warmer months.

Storm windows protect historical or vintage windows. This benefit is especially useful for homes with historical properties or a vintage look that the homeowner wants to or has to preserve. By installing storm windows over the existing windows, the beauty and value of the existing windows can be preserved, while the benefits of higher energy efficiency are realized. In some homes or buildings, homeowners are not allowed to removed or change windows that are part of the historic nature of the building. In fact, the Department of Interior has stated that there is no excuse, even for energy conservation, to destroy existing historic windows since they can be made more energy efficient through other means that will preserve the historical value and aesthetics of the window.

3rd Avenue Window Supply is your #1 source for window replacement, repair, and storm windows! They have the background and experience to make sure that your home is beautifully enhanced with fresh new windows! Choose 3rd Avenue Window Supply for all your window needs!

Tips

Window Materials - This is a big purchase, so giving yourself some flexibility post-purchase is a smart move. Consider the interior. Do you make changes often? Do you want to be able to control the look of your windows on the inside – changing color whenever your décor changes? If so, you'll want to investigate paintable windows. Or are you more the set-it-and-forget-it type?

What kind of pane should you get? Single-pane is highly inefficient and practically obsolete. Most likely single-pane windows are what you're trying to replace. Double-pane windows are the most common and efficient choice, but triple-pane windows (even more efficient) are also available.

Other features that can improve energy efficiency are gas fills and Low-E coatings that can reduce heat transmission, and guard against the damaging effects of sunlight (fading). Some manufacturers also offer a self-cleaning coating. A gas fill can be standard with some manufacturers and an upgrade with others.

The type of Low-E coating and your U-factor rating (this measures the rate of heat transfer) will depend to a great degree on what type of climate you live in, and what direction your windows face. In the summer, you might not want heat to enter through the windows, but blocking that entirely would adversely affect you during the winter, when a little (free!) winter heat can help lower your heating bills.

After the energy-saving features come the easy-maintenance features. Some windows – awning, hopper, and some double-hung windows – tilt inward for easy cleaning. Some are easier to tilt in than others, so take them for a test drive in a manufacturer's showroom or at your home improvement retailer. Other features that could impact your decision are the opening mechanisms on casement, awning, and hopper windows (how durable is the crank assembly?), dual locks, screen locks, vent locks, and so on.

Single-hung windows mean that only one half of the window, either the top or bottom sash (usually the bottom), can open. Double-hung windows mean that both the top and the bottom can open, although only one half at a time. Both sashes on double-hung windows usually tilt inward. Double-hung windows are much easier to clean!

3rd Avenue Window Supply is your #1 source for window replacement and repair needs! They have the background and experience to make your home more extravagant than ever! Choose 3rd Avenue Window Supply for all your window replacement and repair needs!

How to Hire the Right Window Contractor

Where do you find these window replacement contractors? The internet has enormous resources for window replacement contractors yet dealing with them with precaution is required heavily. Here are guidelines on how to find the best and trusted contractor in town:

• Gather a Variety of Contractors. As a homeowner, having a long list of contractors for home jobs like window replacement is a great and powerful tool for comparison of prices, styles, design, and sizes. If you have a gift of gab for negotiations, this will surely help you get the best quotations.

• Background Check. Do some personal investigations about the contractor. Some reliable sites offer help on company reviews or product reviews, in here you will find relevant information about the service of contractors. It is a crucial factor to discover more information about the contractor from outside sources.

• Professional and Strict Negotiation. Maintain a professional approach when dealing with window replacement contractors. This will initially give them the idea that you mean serious and good business. Ask for references of clients from their database. Then call these references and ask for feedbacks. In addition, find out if the contractor is a licensed contractor, too, by asking for their license numbers and verifying them to the licensing boards.

• Insurance You Can Trust. A good contractor will present a good insurance contract with the client. You can also ask for certificates of insurances. This insurance is will hold them liable in case something goes wrong.

• Red Flag. Identify the warning signs of a bad contractor. A bad contractor will refuse to provide references of previous clients. They will put pressure on you to make immediate decisions. They will also request for instant payments.

Efficient Replacement Windows

Select New Efficient Replacement Windows

1. Window Replacement or Retrofit Options

When replacing old windows, the first question is what window parts this will involve:

1.    Is the full window being replaced, including the frame?

2.    Is a retrofit window inserted into the existing frame?

3.    Are just the sashes being replaced with a new sash kit?

Your energy auditor or replacement contractor can help you determine the best option based on your homes window and wall conditions.

1.    Full Window Replacement - The existing frame is removed and the new window placed into the same position that was occupied by the old window. This is an opportunity to fix issues such as water or air leakage that may have occurred around the old frame.

2.    Inserting windows in existing frame - The old sash, side jambs and trim are removed, but the original frame is left in place. The new window is inserted into this opening. Accommodate slightly out-of-square conditions of the existing frame if possible. Significant out-of-square conditions should be fixed with complete window replacement.

3.    Sash replacement - Many manufacturers offer replacement sash kits, which include jamb liners to ensure good operability and fit. This option allows for relatively easy installation, but the existing frame must be in good shape so that air and water tightness is ensured.

Among each of these options you can find products with a variety of energy efficiency features and rated energy performance. Choosing among different energy-efficiency options can be complex. Contact us and we can help walk you through the replacement window process. 

Invest in Your Home

3rd Avenue Window Supply can be the best investment you will make in your house. Take care of your home both inside and out, and  a great start is to include new windows by 3rd Avenue Window Supply.

The cost of heating and cooling our homes is rising on a regular basis, and there is no relief in the foreseeable future. With this in mind, homeowners are continuously looking for ways to optimize the energy efficiency of their homes. One of the long-lasting ways to do that is to install new windows, such as vinyl replacement windows, that help maximize the efficiency of a home's heating and cooling systems.

Replacing the windows in your home sounds costly, but one of the advantages of vinyl replacement windows is their relatively low cost. In fact, they are one of the least expensive choices when it comes to buying replacement windows. And because of the higher energy efficiency of replacement windows, they wind up paying for themselves in a few short seasons. With a moderate to high R-value, (a measure of resistance to heat flow) vinyl replacement windows are so cost-effective that they can save the average homeowner anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars in heating and cooling costs over an extended period of time.

It's time for Screens

Summer is here and perfect time of year to check the condition of your screens.  

If you need to replace your window screens, first visit your local hardware store to determine what type of new screen would be best. Mesh fineness is measured by the strand counts in each direction, per inch. Typical household screens are a mesh of 18" x 14" or finer.

You might also need to pick up a few tools that might be missing from your toolbox. Depending on the method you choose, you'll need a hammer, staple gun, some C-clamps, spline, a screen installation tool (or a putty knife), and scissors (or a utility knife) that can cut your screen from the frame.

Wood and metal frames require different approaches. If you are removing a screen from a wood frame, pry off the molding by starting in the center of a strip and moving toward the ends. Don't break the molding! Additional information on wood replacement windows.

You will also need to stretch the new screen fabric tight first in order to make sure the new screen lasts and performs well. To stretch the screen, buy some 1x2 stock longer than the width of the window, and some 1x4 stock that you can use to saw out wedges. Lay the frame down on a horizontal surface. Cut your new replacement screening a minimum of 1 inch longer and wider than the frame, and center the screen width over the frame.

Staple one end of the screen to the top of the frame, then take one of the 1x2 lengths and affix it firmly to your work surface just beyond the bottom end of the window frame. Stretch the rest of the screen over this 1x2 and nail another 1x2 to it, with the new screen in between.

Take the wedges you've made and place them between the edge of the 1x2 cleats and the bottom of the screen frame. Tap the wedges in to this space until the screen is taut. Now, staple the screen at the bottom of the frame, and then up along the sides, spacing the staples about an inch or two apart. Trim off the excess screen, and use brads to reattach the moldings. Countersink the brads, the fill the holes with wood putty.

Another way to attach the new screen, aside from using wedges, is with clamps and sawhorses. This method works better with larger windows, such as picture windows.

Take a couple of sawhorses and saw some 2x4s the same length as the screen, then lay them end to end across the sawhorses to create a rough frame. (Or lay a sheet of plywood across the sawhorses instead of the 2x4s.) Lay the stripped frame across the boards, and use C- clamps to hold the screen tight in the middle.

Lift each end of the frame and insert small 2x4 blocks. The objective here is to bow the ends of the frame upward, although this needs to be done gently so that you don't accidentally snap the frame.

Staple the screen in place, starting at the C-clamps in the center. When you're done, remove the 2x4 blocks at the ends, and the screen will be very taut! Replace the screen moldings, and you're ready to go.

3rd Avenue Window Supply is your #1 source for window repair and replacement! They have the background and experience to make sure your home only continues to become mroe beautiful! Choose 3rd Avenue Window Supply for all your window replacement and repair!

A great way to update your home is with new windows, there are so many types of windows.  Updated windows can make a nondescript home into one that shines with curb appeal. But you need to know what is available and what it’s called when talking to your window professional. Here are some terms you should know:

1. Fixed – This type of window cannot be opened. It is usually inexpensive and suitable for higher windows that won’t be opened anyway.


2. Double hung – One of the most common windows and a great window for a period home. The window consists of two sashes that move up and down. Only half of the window can be open at one time.


3. Casement – Another common window, casement windows are hinged vertically to swing in and out like a door and operated with a crank.


4. Awning – Awning windows are similar to casement windows but are hinged horizontally.


5. Jalousie – Jalousie windows are horizontally placed narrow strips of glass, lowered by crank. Out of favor today, they were very popular in the mid-century.


6. Sliding – Sliding windows move on top and bottom tracks. They are very common and can be inexpensive.


7. Paladian – A paladian window consists of group of three windows with an arch over the center. These windows have become very popular in the last decade. They provide visual interest and drama to a home.


8. Picture – Picture windows are especially popular in ranch-style homes. They are large fixed windows flanked b y 2 casements or double-hung windows.


9. Clerestory – Clerestory windows were especially popular in Craftsman homes. They consist of a strip of small horizontal panes set high on a wall.


10. Elliptical or Arched – Elliptical or arched windows often placed above double hung or fixed windows in today’s new homes.

Now you are ready to change to look of your home.  To determine what will look best in your home, contact 3rd Avenue Window Supply and they can help you determine what will look best.

On The Fence

Ornamental Iron Gates and Fencing
We specialize in custom iron gates and fencing, which can be great for yards, driveways, entrances,pool safety and decorative uses for all residential and commercial applications. We offer affordable fencing in custom length panels that are built to your specifications, ensuring a symmetrical looking fence while eliminating time consuming, costly guesswork at the jobsite.


Wrought Iron Balcony, Deck, Patio and Staircase Railing

We install custom tailored iron railing in order to meet the structural needs of architects and homeowners alike and all products can be ordered in grades ranging from residential to commercial depending on the job at hand.


Wrought Iron Window Guards and Fire Escape Security Gates

Our wrought iron window security bars are decorative, while still providing extra protection to your home. Our iron fire escape ladders make escaping a fire faster and safer than portable ladder alternatives..

Select the Perfect Door

Custom Exterior Door Types Include:

Wood Doors

Nearly any wood door will come in a variety of styles and finishes, bare for staining or primed for painting. Wood doors require more maintenance to retain their original beauty. There are some exposures where wood doors are not recommended.

Wood Clad Doors

Has the beauty of a wood door but clad with a layer of vinyl or metal on the exterior, and the richness of wood on the interior. This door will require less maintenance than all wood doors.

Fiberglass Doors

This door comes in a variety of styles and colors, wood finishes so authentic it would be hard to distinguish from real wood. They hold up very well under extreme elements of sun, rain and salt air exposure, and require minimal maintenance.

Vinyl Doors

Most often seen in sliding patio door or French door applications. Vinyl comes in a small variety of colors, is very durable and requires little maintenance.

Aluminum Doors

Most often seen in sliding patio door applications. Aluminum also has a few color choices, good durability, and low maintenance.

Glass Doors

Most often used in commercial applications, these can range from the functional utilitarian style to an elegant interplay of clear and frosted, artistically scuptured designs from geometric to free form.

Iron Doors

Some of the most dramatic and beautiful doors available are entry doors that combine heavy wood with iron fabrication and glass.

Five Tips for Selecting the Right Windows

Selecting replacement windows for your home can be a daunting task. Like any specialized area, window technology is constantly changing and these essential home components can be difficult to understand. Before you make your decision and commit to what will likely be a substantial investment, read on and learn.

TIP 1: Become an educated consumer so that you can make smart deci¬sions about this major investment. You deserve the best value for your hard-earned dollars, and you want windows that you’ll never have to replace again.

TIP 2: Select windows with premium-grade vinyl frames and sashes. Technological advancements made over the past decade make vinyl the best material choice for energy efficiency, durability, low maintenance and beauty.

TIP 3: Choose “custom-made” windows. Though the initial purchase price may be higher than standard sized windows, they’re the best value in the long run because installation is faster and practically no “cosmetic” work to the inside or outside of your home is needed. Plus, an exact fit means better thermal performance and lower energy bills!

TIP 4: Replacing windows is the perfect time to try something different to give your home a fresh, new look. Consider all the various styles, shapes and colors in which windows are now available. Today, window options offer new benefits—from enhanced security and protection against damaging UV light to sound or energy control and new-found comfort for your home.

TIP 5: Select Energy Star qualified windows and doors from a manufac¬turer that participates in the Energy Star program. With continuously rising energy costs, high-performance products will keep your heating and cooling bills lower—and provide a greater level of comfort for your home.

TIP 6: Choose replacement windows from a specialty dealer who represents a reputable manufacturer. Consider the growth and stability. What do others, including past purchasers, say about the company? What kind of warranty does it provide?

What is U-Value

Our last Blog we explained R-value, windows also can have a U-value.

U-Value is the measurement of the rate of heat loss through a material.  Which means that in all aspects of home design one should strive for the lowest U Values possible because the lower the U Value, the less heat will be needlessly escaping. It is the measure of a window's ability to reduce heat loss during indirect radiation exposure; such as during the winter months in moderating climates.Lower U-values translate into less indirect heat lost from the interior of the home resulting in lower heating costs.

U-value is the inverse of R-value (a more common term used in the insulation business). To find a correlating R-value from a given U-value, simply divide the number 1 by the U-value. Lower U-values correlate to higher R-values. For example: 1 divided by a .50 U-value gives us an R-value of 2.00.

Lower U-values are important because many municipalities are adopting the 2006 version of the International Residential Code (IRC 06 for short). This code mandates all energy efficient window and exterior door units with IG to carry a minimum U-Value of .40, translating to an R-value of 2.5.

This may sound like a low insulating value but even the finest energy efficient windows today carry U-values hovering in the .22 through .30 ranges; thus correlating to R-values of 4.55 through 3.33.

And given the fact most exterior wall cavities are a minimum R-13 (with standard 2 x 4 framing) to R-19 (with 2 x 6 framing), the most energy efficient windows are 3 to 4 times less efficient than the wall they're installed in; thus the significance to upgrade building codes with regard to window glazing applications.

So, even with the large disparity between the wall vs. window insulating factor, improving U-values greatly increases the energy efficiency of the home.

What is R-Value

Shopping for New Windows can be confusing especially when it comes to R-Values.  We wanted to share a guide that will help you understand what R-values are and why they are so import.

What is a Window's R-Value?

The R-value (or R-factor) of a window is a rating system used in the building and construction industry that indicates a window's thermal resistance. It is based on a set of standards as outlined by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). The higher the R-value number, the better the window is at resisting heat. This is similar to, but not to be confused with, the R-value of home insulation.

How is R-Value Determined?

R-values are determined by five primary factors. These include:

• The number of layers of glass used
• The amount of air space between the layers of glass
• The type of glazing material used
• The tightness of the installation
• The thermal resistance level of the materials used including the spacers and frame

What Part of the Window does the R-Value Relate To?

The R-value is the heat resistance capabilities determined for the entire window – glass, frame and all.

What is the Difference Between a Window's R-Value and Its U-Value?

Whereas the R-value rates the window's resistance to heat, the U-value rates the window's tendency to let heat enter or exit. A well-insulated window will feature a high R-value and a low U-value. Typical R-values range between 0.9 and 3.0 and U-values are usually between 1.1 and 0.3.

3rd Avenue Window Supply

3rd Avenue Window Supply is proud to celebrate 14 years of service in New York City, established in  1998.  Mike Laucella is the owner, he and his crew make up over 40 years of combined experience. Since they only install the highest quality windows, doors, iron railings and gates, they have earned the reputation of being the company to go to for getting the job done right. 

Many companies sell glass, windows and doors but they believe their employees are what make the difference, they believe in offering quality products, backed by professional service and expertise. 

3rd Avenue Window Supply has been listed in the Builder's Blue Book since 2008.  Proud Affiliations include:

• N & A Contracting Inc.
• Trice Contracting Inc.
• Dawn Waterproofing
• Glass Town (Replacement Glass)
• Monda Windows (Aluminum & Vinyl Windows)
• Anderson (Wood Windows)
• New Sun Glass (Provide Storefront Products)

3rd Avenue Window Supply is proud to serve New York City, call for a Free estimate for all your  Residential, Commercial and Industrial needs (718) 220-0015.

Make the Choice of 3rd Avenue Window Supply

3rd Avenue Window Supply can be the best investment you will make in your house. Take care of your house both inside and out, and you should start by including a new set of 3rd Avenue Window Supply.

The cost of heating and cooling our homes is rising on a regular basis, and there is no relief in the foreseeable future. With this in mind, homeowners are continuously looking for ways to optimize the energy efficiency of their homes. One of the long-lasting ways to do that is to install new windows, such as vinyl replacement windows, that help maximize the efficiency of a home's heating and cooling systems.

Replacing the windows in your home sounds costly, but one of the advantages of vinyl replacement windows is their relatively low cost. In fact, they are one of the least expensive choices when it comes to buying replacement windows. And because of the higher energy efficiency of replacement windows, they wind up paying for themselves in a few short seasons. With a moderate to high R-value, (a measure of resistance to heat flow) vinyl replacement windows are so cost-effective that they can save the average homeowner anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars in heating and cooling costs over an extended period of time.

All About Curb Appeal

Next is curb appeal. If your old windows are rotting and painting is peeling you can guarantee people will assume the rest of your home is kept up in the same manner. Purchasing replacement windows in wood or vinyl will make your home more attractive causing prospective buyers to feel like the home is one worth looking into because care was taken in regards to the homes up keep. The value in resale alone, in this situation, makes replacement windows a great buy.

If you are concerned at all about maintenance new windows will be beneficial. Many newer models of windows have the ability to be washed from the inside of your home. Replacement windows come so that you are able to flip the top and bottoms in to thoroughly wash them. Also, many windows now come in vinyl or wood that is thoroughly treated so no extra painting or staining is needed. That beats the up keep on older windows where you need to repaint or restain them every few years to keep them looking fresh and to prevent wear from the weather. Replacement windows can be almost completely maintenance free.

Spring Cleaning Don't forget The Windows

If you want your windows to last as long as possible, you have to invest a little time and effort every year. It's a simple formula, much like changing your car's oil every 3,000 miles: The more attentive you are to your windows, the longer they will last and the better they will perform over time.

Spring Cleaning also refers to your windows, don't forget to take care of your windows. Most window manufacturers include care and cleaning instructions for their products. Follow their instructions to get the most from your windows!

Here are few of the most basic maintenance issues to focus on:

Clean surfaces
Take a clean, dry paintbrush and brush the dirt from the window tracks and sills at least once a year (especially in gliding windows, where dirt accumulates with gusto). Keep the track free of dead bugs, cobwebs, grime, and other detritus so that the window can continue to close and open easily, and form a tight seal when closed.

The glass, sash, and frame surfaces should also be kept clean. Avoid petroleum-based cleaners and solvents, however. Never use a razor blade, putty knife, abrasive pad, or other sharp (or scratch-causing) material, or anything that might dissolve or damage the finish. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions, and remember the golden rule – when in doubt, don't.

Keep the drainage system functioning
Windows and doors typically use a 'weep' system, where tiny 'weepholes' in the frame help to keep water from collecting in the tracks. Be sure the weepholes are not obstructed, or you'll have a problem the next time it rains. They are often covered by baffles, so be careful when cleaning – you don't want to damage the weephole covers.

Spring is on the Way

It is time to thaw out and recover from the winter's heating bills, the forecast this summer is calling for high energy bills as well.  This makes spring a great time to make your home more cost efficient.  One great money saving tip is to replace your windows.
Most don't realize that 45% of heat and air conditioning can go out the window if they are worn or not fitted correctly.  Check and see how old your windows are, if they are over 20 years- that is a good sign that they should be replaced.  If you have faulty windows, you are throwing money out the window when heat and air conditioning escape.  You need properly fitted windows to protect the heat and air from escaping.
This is the time of year to check and see if you have leaky windows.  An easy test to see if you have leaky windows is to light a candle and place it along the edge of the window, if it flickers or goes out that is a good sign that the windows have a leak.
Replacing windows now can save you on soaring energy costs before the summer heat arrives.

7 Reasons for New Windows this Season

Few reasons to choose vinyl replacement windows:

1. To start with they are zero maintenance. They are available in a variety of colors and you do not need to seal, paint or polish vinyl replacement windows.


2. With vinyl you have a myriad of options to choose from. Also they come in several price ranges making it affordable for the common man.

3. It is cost effective and is a commonly used product. It might not have the old-world charm of wood but by using vinyl you are not chopping a tree.

4. It is easy to install.

5. Most importantly it is highly energy effective. It ensures that there is little to no transfer or loss of heating. At the same time it ensures that there is no heat transfer from the window ensuring that the temperature within the house does not increase drastically in summer

6. Using vinyl windows replacement ensures that your utility bill will come down at least 10% the following winter because vinyl is poor conductor of heat and makes an excellent insulator.


7. They are waterproof. You do not have to check for termite infestation and also vinyl offers fire self extinguishing properties.

New Year, New Windows

Are you tired of your old, drafty windows welcoming in the winter chill? Or are you just plain embarrassed by the faded and cracked appearance of your windows? Then out with the old and in with the new. It's time to make your home more beautiful and energy-efficient with new replacement windows. Buying new windows is not something that you can just rush right through. You have to be smart about the process. You want to make sure that the company that installs your windows will get the job done right and not rip you off in the end. You also want to make sure that your new windows will help meet your home improvement goals.

So here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when replacing the windows of your home:

Do Your Homework

Home window replacement is a considerable investment. That's why it's imperative to do your research beforehand so you know that your investment will be a sound one. When you are trying to decide on a replacement window installation company, get more than one estimate. Also, look into the backgrounds of the companies that you are interested in. There are many fly by night companies out there that don't have your best interests in mind. They could care less about saving you money or even using quality materials. So get online and look for reviews about the companies you are considering. See if customers have common complaints about their work or their customer service. And check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure there are no complaints as well. Simple steps like these can help you avoid the pitfalls you would face if you went into this whole process blindly.

Know Your Options

You know that you need new windows. But do you know what windows are right for your home? Get some brochures from home window replacement companies or even visit some home improvement stores to see what window options are available. Find out more about the energy-efficiency of the glass, the different style options, the frame materials and the manufacturer's warranty. This way, you'll know exactly what you want and won't get roped into buying whatever the window company pushes on you.