INSIDE SALES CONSULTANTS (Chicago Location)
Seeking part-time qualified, experienced and reliable inside sales consultants to make phone calls during evening hours and Saturday afternoons. The job requirements are as follows:

Monday – Thursday 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
22 Total hours per week
Approximately 25 calls per hour
$10 per Hour + $15 per appointment set

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:
• Excellent Customer Service
• Dependability
• A Can-do Attitude
• Superior verbal and interpersonal communication skills

The successful candidate must wow us with their upbeat attitude and energy.
Please forward resumes via e-mail to fallen@siding-1.com or fax to 773-929-2482. Local Candidates Only. No phone calls.

OUTSIDE SALES CONSULTANTS (Chicago and Naperville Locations)
The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:
• Excellent Customer Service
• Team Player Attitude
• Dependability
• Ability to Develop New Business
• Ability to Manage New and Existing Clientele
• A Can-do Attitude
• Attention to detail
• An ability to multi-task
• Superior oral, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Be literate in email, Windows, MS Excel, MS Word
• Familiarity with James Hardie & Mastic Siding a plus
• Familiarity with THV composite and Pella Windows a plus
• Familiarity with Owens Corning roofing and attic insulation a plus

The responsibilities of the position are mainly, but not limited, to the following:
• Run in-house leads
• Follow the company’s 10 step selling program
• Check jobs in progress
• Complete and submit detailed paperwork on a daily basis
• Be sure proposals are presented in a timely manner
• Monitor weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly sales goals and commitments
• Lead generation when necessary
• Complete weekly prospecting activities (including calls, job site visits, and canvassing) as directed by the sales manager

The successful candidate must wow us with their upbeat attitude and selling skills. The ideal candidate must be energetic, extremely organized and possess a strong attention to detail. The candidate must also be able to prioritize responsibilities and have the ability to multitask. They must be a team player and be able to work well within a small organization.

Please forward resumes via e-mail to pkeenan@siding-1.com

Pella Patio Doors

Hinged patio doors are stunning design elements that open up all kinds of delightful possibilities. The uncommon beauty of their wood interiors and richly detailed handles makes Pella hinged doors an impressive focal point inside your home. Plus, they draw the eye outdoors and spotlight your yard, patio or deck.

• Designer Series hinged patio doors are available with our exclusive snap-in between-the-glass window fashions. Blinds, fabric shades, decorative panels and grilles tucked between panes of glass are protected from children and pets.
• Expand your view and let the outdoors in with larger 8’ or 10’ hinged patio doors.
• Factory-assembled standard-size doors come prehung and ready for quick, easy installation.
• Designer Series products with Low-E triple-pane glass are #1 for energy efficiency among top national brands and #1 for noise reduction.
• Pella products offer the energy efficient options that will meet or exceed ENERGY STAR guidelines in all 50 states.

When room is tight, sliding patio doors are just right. They don’t swing, so they require less floor space. From kitchen to bedroom, they’re a perfect fit for your home’s style, too. Get a traditional look with the wide wood panels of the French style. Or go contemporary with narrow wood panels and more visible glass.

Our Storm Windows will Reduce Energy Consumption & Save you Money

Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors offers ProVia aluminum storm windows that are designed to reduce energy consumption and save you money. This professional class of interior storm windows and exterior storm window products are custom built from the strongest and most durable materials to fit the exact specifications of your window openings.

Each ProVia storm window is designed for effortless operation and offers the added benefit of reducing the noise that filters into your home. ProVia indoor storm windows and outdoor storm windows are backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

Our Energy Efficient Storm Doors Will Keep Your Home Comfortable

Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors offers energy efficient storm doors by ProVia to protect your entry doors by keeping the elements out and keeping comfort in. These professional class storm doors are produced using 20% thicker aluminum than consumer-grade storm doors that are sold through home improvement retailers. You can create a custom storm door that meets the unique configuration of your entryway. Ask your Design Consultant for suggestions, or view the styles below for ideas.

Owens Corning Professional Roofing Contractor in Chicagoland

Your new roof should protect you and your family from the elements. It must deliver the performance that creates peace of mind. Its exceptional beauty can also transform the look of your entire home. So for years to come, you can feel great every time to pull into the driveway. Safe. Protected. Home.

Be confident that investing in an Owens Corning roof will give you good value for your money. Owens Corning has been a recognized leader in the building materials industry for over 65 years. Their products have made millions of homes across the country more comfortable, beautiful, and durable. And our professional, experienced installers will ensure that your home can be added to that list as well.

Berkshire Collection

With a thickness, proportion and color selection reminiscent of natural slate, these shingles make a unique, elegant statement. And the Owens Corning Berkshire Collection proves it is as solid as it looks with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and 110-MPH Wind Resistance Warranty, plus the Algae Resistance Limited Warranty.

Duration Series

Compare the shadow and texture choices offered in the Owens Corning Duration Series shingle line. Whichever Duration shingle option you select for your home, you’ll rest easy knowing that your new shingles come with Owens Corning SureNail Technology built right in. This product breakthrough offers:

Supersealing Action:
Tru-Bond sealant grips tightly to the nailing strip on the shingle below for greater bonding strength. Duration Premium shingles with SureNail Technology are rated for 130-MPH windows, and Duration shingles with SureNail Technology are rated for up to 110-MPH winds.

SureNail Wider Nailing Area:
New, wider nailing area allows for an improved and consistent installation.

Extra Adhesive Power:
Specially formulated, extra-wide adhesive bands help keep shingle layers laminated together in virtually all weather conditions.

Woodmoor Shingles

Steadfast Woodmoor shingles feature an extra-thick, three-dimensional appearance that evokes the look of wood shake. Woodmoor shingles also boast great endurance—they come with a Limited Lifetime Warranty; 110-MPH Wind Resistance Limited Warranty and Algae Resistance Limited Warranty.

Enjoy the allure of wood shakes for years to come. Woodmoor shingles meet the highest fire resistance standards in the industry. They’re also available in eye-catching colors you can’t get from real wood. Woodmoor Shingles take a classic look to new heights.

Woodcrest Shingles

Thick, ruggedly beautiful Woodcrest shingles use their rustic and textured appearance to create the look of wood shake. Their natural look comes with a durability just as appealing—these shingles are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty with 90-MPH Wind Resistance Limited Warranty.

Woodcrest shingles meet the highest fire resistance standards in the industry. They also infuse roofs with a pop of color you can’t get from real wood. Woodcrest Shingles give a new twist to an old shake.

1.  Experienced, knowledgeable exterior design consultants will help you choose the right siding product and accessories to complement your home’s unique character.

2.  A philosophy of designing the exterior of your home, not just siding your home.

3.  A strong belief in our mission.

4.  We have over 20 years of quality, professional installations in and around the Chicagoland area.

5.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors has two convenient one stop design centers for all your exterior home improvement needs: overhang and trim, gutters and downspouts, roofing, replacement windows and doors, patio doors, storm windows, porches and decks, and gutter protection systems.

6.  A wide selection of designer siding choices – Mastic long length vinyl siding, Mastic  insulated siding, Mastic custom colors program (any color of your choice), Mastic accessories, Wolverine Restoration Classic smooth vinyl siding and all accessories.

7.  Individual siding choices featuring CertainTeed’s Weatherboard, James Hardie fiber cement siding, and natural cedar siding.  Fiber cement and cedar siding are available in prefinished colors.

8.  An emphasis on  the little things that make a difference: gable vents, dryer light blocks, door surrounds, window mantels, window crown molding, shutters, and multi colored window trim.

9.  Installation features Mastic long length vinyl siding — 50% less seams than standard vinyl siding for a virtually seamless appearance.

10.  Installation features a locking system to withstand high winds.

11.  Installation features Mastic lifetime limited warranty (fully transferable); defective products will be replaced, labor included.

12.  Installation features foundation and sidewall flashing.

13.  Installation features Dow styrofoam insulation underlayment.

14.  Installation features the option of Tyvek housewrap air infiltration barrier system.

15.  Installation features custom bent aluminum trim with built in flashing for window and door casings.

16.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors is licensed, bonded and fully insured.

17.  All of Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors crews are certified installers of Alcoa, Wolverine, James Hardie, GAF and Marvin Windows.

18.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors Siding System — a strong investment payback; no more painting, savings on heating and cooling costs, great curb appeal, solid resale value and pride in ownership.

Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors President Bill Conforti September 2005

19.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors has received many awards and recognition: the Big 50 Award from Remodeling Magazine, the Golden Hammer Award, Replacement Contractor Magazine Top 100, National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), Home Builders Association of Greater Chicagoland (HBAGC), National Home Builders Association (NHBA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Chambers of Commerce in Chicago and Suburbs.

20.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors promise: “Your Satisfaction Is Our Team Goal.”

To learn more about the multiple siding options available from Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors call us at 800-929-9275 or fill out our online form to the right.

1. Roofing installation represents the second highest injury rate and has the highest workman’s compensation rates — so many roofers do not carry it.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors is a licensed roofing contractor within the State of Illinois.  We carry workman’s compensation, liability insurance and property damage insurance protection.

2.  Our exterior design consultants provide a complete roof inspection and in home demonstration to address your needs for flat and shingled roofing.  We then design a roof system to meet those needs on an individual basis.

3.  Exterior design consultants are trained in and offer a wide range of shingle options — not just what can be bought at the big box retailers.

4.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors is an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Roofing Contractor.  We insure that each customer receives the “best and safest” choice in roofing products and installation.

5.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors provides an Owens Corning Platinum Promise Coverage on all roofing installations.

6.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors stands behind its customer satisfaction rating of 90%, (compared to the national industry average for roofing of 22%.)  The average roof install is completed in 2-3 days.

INSTALLATION FEATURES THE FOLLOWING:

7.  Roof boards and plywood for any possible rotten wood and is replaced when necessary.

8.  On a tear off — 6 feet of ice and water shield is applied to the roof eaves and valleys.  An extra wide strip of ice and water shield is applied to the fascia and behind the gutter flashing prior to the installation of the 6 foot wide strip.

9.  Fiberglass mat, 30 lb. felt paper on all applications, instead of organic felt.  Fiberglass lays flatter and is more water resistant (on tear offs only.)

10.  Aluminum drip edge and gutter flashing (tear off only) to entire perimeter of roof to keep out driving rain.

11.  An inspection of the chimney and replacement of chimney flashing.

12.  Application of shingles with nails — not staples.

13.  An application of shingles with 4 nails per shingle on 30 year shingles, 6 nails per shingle on 40 & 50 year shingles.

14.  Ridge ventilation system is available on all roofs 7/12 pitch and higher.  Inspection of soffit intake ventilation on all roofs.

15.  Covering plumbing vent stacks with appropriate flashing — lead for iron pipes, rubber for PVC pipes.

16.  Only experienced, certified, Owens Corning Roofer quality craftsmen — no temporary workers.

17.  All permits, dumpster, and barricades for the dumpster.

18.  Covering the house and shrubs as well as neighboring homes with tarps and boards to prevent damage.

19.  Worker cleans up during the job not just at the end of it.  The roof is done in sections to avoid exposure and unexpected bad weather.

20.  Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors Project Managers visit each job while work is being performed to ensure it is being performed to customer’s specifications.

To learn more about our roofing installation system call Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors at 800-929-9275 or fill out the online form to the right.

1.      Energy efficient glass options to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer — year round comfort.

2.      Multi chambered extruded frame and sashes, allow for added insulation.

3.      Warm Edge Spacer System technology on all window products, keeps condensation off windows in the cold season.

4.      Wet glazing system with GE Silicone.

5.      Dual Bulb Weatherstripping on lift rail.

6.      Improves your home’s appearance with beauty and architectural detail: contoured grids, equal glass area in sash, multiple color options.

7.      Heavy wall virgin PVC extrusions.

8.      Fully welded frame and sash.

9.      Steel reinforced sash rails and extruded screen frame.

10.    Installation features a locking system to withstand high winds.

11.    20+ years of award-winning business; tens of thousands of satisfied customers

12.    Low maintenance, easy-to-clean windows – saving you time

13.    Strong curb appeal that instantly adds value to your home.

14.    Constant force balance system keeps windows working and in alignment forever.

15.    Optional triple glazed windows for added security, noise reduction and energy efficiency.

16.   Two convenient one-stop design centers (Chicago & Suburban locations) for all of your exterior home improvement needs: windows, siding, doors, gutters & downspouts, gutter-protection, roofs, soffit & fascia, etc.

17.   Products that are backed by iron-clad warrantees

Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors President Bill Conforti September 2005

18.   Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors has received many awards and recognition: the Big 50 Award from Remodeling Magazine, the Golden Hammer Award, Replacement Contractor Magazine Top 100, National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), Home Builders Association of Greater Chicagoland (HBAGC), National Home Builders Association (NHBA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Chambers of Commerce in Chicago and Suburbs.

19.   Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors Window system – a strong investment payback; no more painting, savings on heating and cooling costs, great curb appeal, solid resale value and pride in ownership.

20.   Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors Promise: “Your Satisfaction Is Our Team Goal!”

To learn more about the multiple replacement window options available from Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors call us at 800-929-9275 or fill out our online form to the right.

Window replacement is a process you may not be familiar with until it becomes time to change the windows in your own home. And even then, there’s a lot to learn about which products to use and what procedures best meet your individual window needs. Therefore, it’s vital to know that you can rely on the window contractor you choose to give you good advice about those products and procedures that may be new to you. The key is to find a professional window contractor for your job.

That’s why Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors of Chicago has developed this guide to selecting a window contractor. The questions contained in this article are designed to help you determine the reliability, reputation and experience of a contractor; as well as his dedication to providing you with the best window system possible.

A top-notch, professional contractor will be only too happy to supply you with answers to these questions. And just as it makes good business sense to see several bids on your job, it also makes good sense to ask several different contractors these questions. We’ve also outlined some important points to consider as you evaluate the terms of your proposed job contract.

Being confident you’ve selected the right window contractor will help assure that you have quality windows installed and that your hard-earned money has been wisely spent.

Seven Questions to Ask Your Chicago Window Installer

At Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors, we suggest that you evaluate your contractor as carefully as you would a doctor or lawyer. It is certain that you will want a window professional who employs capable applicators to install the windows themselves. It is also clear that you will need to look closely at the proposal offered, the products selected, and the price/value relationship of the entire package.

But what criteria can you use to decide if the contractor is a true professional who will stand behind his work? While there is not a single, clear-cut answer, there are a number of indicators that you can look for when going through the evaluation process.

Interview the contractor

You cannot choose a professional roofer by looking at an estimate and comparing prices. Allow yourself an hour, more or less, to sit down with each contractor. You might be speaking with a salesperson or even the owner. Both of you need time to ask questions and explore the possibilities. You will be surprised at how many options you have.

Good contractors take pride in their work, and so should the salesperson representing the company.

• The salesperson should show pride and enthusiasm in discussing other jobs.
• The salesperson should be knowledgeable about other jobs (which shows his amount of involvement in the actual work).

The Seven Questions to Ask ANY Roofing Contractor

Contractors may also carry other kinds of insurance including health, life and auto insurance. Bland assurances of insurance coverage may refer to these. Don’t be confused. Ask for proof of general liability and workers’ compensation* coverage for roofing projects.

*Workers’ compensation insurance not required in Texas

Contractors who carry insurance and follow safety guidelines on fall prevention endure higher job overhead costs. These expenses could be the cause of price variations between contractors who follow the standards versus those who ignore them. Beware of uninsured contractors. Contractors who do not carry insurance will most likely be cheaper to hire as they do not have the large insurance premiums to pay. Workers’ compensation premiums can increase wage costs from about 20% to as much as 100%, depending on the state.

There are a variety of reasons why full insurance may not be carried by a contractor, such as:

• Not a full-time contractor
• Operates as a partnership or self-employed without employees
• New in the business
• Can’t afford insurance premiums
• Doesn’t stand behind work

It is up to you to determine if it is worth the risk to hire a contractor who does not carry insurance.

Not all states require contractors to be licensed. If your state does license contractors, then he might have had to pass a written examination in his specialty, although few licenses make this a requirement. A number of cities also require professional licensing. Check with your local licensing authority for details.

A contractor may also answer this question by telling you he has a business license. However, a business license is a tax requirement only and is not directly relevant to the contractor’s competence. Several window manufacturers offer a variety of programs to professional contractors that establish their credentials as a knowledgeable window company. Homeowners can view a contractor’s credentials as another indicator of their degree of knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to the construction trade.

4. How long has the company been in business?

Needless to say, longer is usually better. Under three years may signal an unstable business or one low on the learning curve. On the other hand, everybody has to start somewhere. References will be helpful to double check any business, and especially important when dealing with a new business. A newer business may have a great future but it is only reasonable to be more careful when considering its referrals. The failure rate of small businesses in the first three years is very high.

Request a list of 10 names and phone numbers of recent customers, over the last 12 months. It is not necesary to check all 10, but you will be able to pick randomly from the list those that you do call.

6. What is the company’s workmanship warranty?

Typically, contractor workmanship warranties are for one year or more. Longer warranties are not necessarily more valuable than shorter warranties. The length of the warranty is less important than the intent and ability of the company to stand behind his warranty. That is best evaluated using customer referrals. Ask his customers specifically for information about these four things:

• Did he perform his work on a timely basis?
• Was he responsive when asked for information and changes?
• Did he act as if he cared about the customers interests?
• And finally, would you call the company trustworthy?

The company should warrant his workmanship. The manufacturer, on the other hand, warranties the windows against defects in manufacturing. Thus, two warranties will cover the new window system. Understand them both. Ask for a copy of the manufacturer’s warranty pertaining to the specific window products you are considering.

Usually, problems of either workmanship or material show up very quickly. Therefore, the near-term warranty given by the contractor or manufacturer is more important than the warranty coverage during the later years of the warranty. Even if problems of workmanship arise after the workmanship warranty has lapsed, a reliable contractor usually will want to stand behind his work.

• Try to find out how your contractor hanles problems when they do arise. Request a referral from a job that involved a complaint.
• Ask the contractor if he has ever lost a job related court case.
• Ask if his contractor’s license has ever been suspended, and why.

Also, in talking to the appropriate authorities, such as the Better Business Bureau and licensing departments, find out if any complaints have been filed against the contractors whom you have interviewed. Many contractors in business for any length of time have been involved in a dispute. Ask how the dispute was resolved, to test your contractor’s reputation.

What is an estimate?

To simplify, an estimate will typically offer a single price, a generically described product, a color and no options. This is traditional and legitimate. But it isn’t consumer-friendly.

What is a proposal?

Simply put, a proposal is a tentative agreement for a project. It offers a choice of products by brand name, prices, services and even designs. Many other provisions may also be included such as change order conditions and financing options. The homeowner should expect three product choices. These could be presented in the typical range of good, better and best. Appropriate product literature and samples should also be offered. In conclusion, a proposal is consumer-friendly.

Details, Details!

Most contracts for window work are simple and straightforward. The larger or more experienced contractors may have longer, more detailed contracts. Regardless of the form of the agreement, you should read all of the specific items in the contract carefully.

Misunderstandings are more often the cause of contract disagreement rather than actual dishonesty or incompetence.

It is in your interest that certain items which are important to you be stated in writing in the contract. The following are some of the basics that should be covered:

Compliance with local codes and ordinances. Will they be observed? Are permit costs included? Who will obtain the permit? What about provisions for posting zoning notices? Have inspections been planned?

Product choices. Have you been offered a choice of good, better, best windows? Are they identified by brand and manufacturer name? Is there a clear reference to the warranty which will cover the shingles to be applied? Is the manufacturer’s name for the window you are buying stated in the contract? Do you understand the difference in the aesthetics from one window manufacturer to another (including not only color but also style, glass options, grids, lock colors and handle styles)?

Scheduling. Start and stop dates are difficult to pin down due to the unpredictability of the weather. But you can control exceptions. For instance, negotiate a “no-later-than” clause. Be reasonable, but do make it clear that these terms will be enforced if necessary.

If early completion is important, offer an award for completion by an early date in addition to a no-later-than clause.

NOTE: Some state laws require a no-later-than clause.

Right-to-rescind. This clause establishes a time period in which the homeowner can cancel the contract without penalty. Some states require such a clause in contracts. Check with your local authorities.

Three days is usually the time period given for a right-to-rescind without penalty. If the homeowner cancels the job after the right-to rescind period has elapsed, then the contractor may request a certain dollar or percentage value of the contract in return.  This is especially true with custom made windows that cannot be returned, if you cancel your job after your windows have been ordered from the factory.

Manufacturer’s warranty specifications. Confirm that the Agreement states that all workmanship will conform to the requirements of the manufacturer’s warranty and installation instructions in the contract.

Cleanup. Call for a daily cleanup of the premises. This becomes very important if the replacement window project is expected to take several days.

Payment terms. Schedule, terms and method of payment should be written out fully with no room for misunderstandings.  It is customary for a replacement window contractor to ask for a deposit, typically 25%, to cover the cost of the materials up front.  Another payment may be negotiated at the start of the job, with the balance due upon completion.

Preliminary inspection. Finally, agree to an inspection before the job with the job supervisor. Establish the condition of the property before any work is done. Take special care to list the conditions of landscaping and equipment located where the crew may be working.  If you have furniture, or items on the walls that could be damaged, make sure to remove them and place them in a safe place before work begins. Do not be unreasonable on your expectations. Discuss and agree on what is reasonable. Prepare a checklist as you go and co-sign it, indicating that both parties understand the present condition of the property. A thorough inspection after the job will determine if any valid property damage claims exist.

Insider Tips — Understanding the contractor

This article serves as a guide to shopping for a good contractor and negotiating a good contract. However, you should keep in mind that your contractor is also shopping. A contractor is shopping for good jobs that will make a fair profit and bring future referrals. Many contractors have had experiences with unreasonable or dishonest homeowners. Therefore , they look for warning signs of customer problems during the initial job interview. Show the contractor that you are an informed consumer who has both your and his best interests in mind.

Getting a window contractor to want your job

Many homeowners have been mystified by the seeming lack of interest and response from contractors when they receive a call for a job. Here’s how you can get a window contractor to respond to your call: –

• When you call a contractor, tell him you are shopping around, but are only interviewing three contractors, not 10.
• Call contractors in the general vicinity. Window contractors prefer to work close to home, just like everyone else.
• Tell the company that you call that you are not looking for the lowest bid, but rather the best value. And ask for a Good-Better-Best proposal.
• If you have seen work by a contractor in your neighborhood and you liked it, or if someone referred a contractor to you, call him. And when you do call, mention how you received the contractor’s name.

By following these tips you can help a window contractor determine that you are a good prospect and worth his effort.

Local Information

There are a number of organizations and institutions that you can contact when you need additional help or information about window replacement. Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict which will be the most useful in any given location.

Consider these sources:

• Local Better Business Bureau
• City, county and state licensing authorities
• Local construction trade associations, whose members are actual contractors, should be active in policing their trade and can be excellent sources of information.

Be aware that if a worker is injured on your property, the homeowner might be held liable for all costs unless the employee is covered by workers’ compensation insurance. Hospital bills for serious accidents can be extraordinarily expensive.

Windows are extremely important to your home for many reasons. First of all, their style sets the tone for the appearance of your home’s exterior. Windows also have critical functional purposes, protecting your family from unwanted intruders and harsh weather conditions. Choosing the right windows can also save you money on your energy bills, by providing ventilation and insulation.

Siding-1 Windows-1 Exteriors offers our Chicago customers a wide selection of different window styles from some of the top manufacturers in the industry.  How do you decide which window is best for you?  Here are some things to consider:

Signs That it’s Time to Get New Windows

• You want to give your home a new look or increase its resale value.
• Your windows do not meet fire codes or do not provide adequate protection from possible intruders.
• You want to save money on your energy bills.
• Your old windows have damages, such as cracks, faded colors or dents.
• Your old windows would require a lot of money and time to fix.

Types of Windows

When choosing the type of window that is best for your home, it is important to consider the look, operating style and energy efficiency you want. There are also several shapes and security factors to think about. Not only do your home’s windows affect its architectural style, but they can also save energy, provide light and ventilation, and regulate the temperature of a room.

To serve a wide variety of tastes and needs, windows are available in several types and sizes that operate and function differently. Here are some common window types:

Double-Hung Windows: Common window style that opens by sliding the bottom sash up or the top sash down. Double-hung windows allow good control of ventilation.

Single-Hung Windows: Similar in operation to double-hung windows, but only the bottom sash opens.

Casement Windows: Hinges on one side and swings out or in when you turn a crank. Provide excellent ventilation and energy efficiency because both sides are sealed tightly when closed. Casement windows are also used for egress windows for fire safety.

Awning Windows: Hinges at the top and tilts out at the bottom. Awning windows are usually used for ventilation above a door or window.

Bay and Bow Windows: A bay window usually consist of three joined windows, while a bow window can be made up of four or more window units joined together to form a curve.

Sliding Windows: Consists of sashes that move horizontally on a track; usually one side moves while the other is fixed. Provides ventilation from the opened sash and is weather tight when shut.

Tilt-Turn Windows: Operated by tilting into a room. They allow for good ventilation, are easy to clean and are ideal emergency exits.

Rotating Windows: Open by pivoting around a central point. They provide good ventilation and are easy to clean.

Circlehead or Roundtop Windows: Accent windows designed to be placed above other windows or doors. These provide light but not ventilation.

Window Frames

Choosing the correct window frame for your home requires thinking about the style you want and your practical needs. You need to consider various materials, finishes and styles. Also consider your budget and the maintenance required for keeping each window frame in good shape.

If your window frames can be opened for ventilation, they must also close tightly and securely to prevent intrusion.  Also, different window frames have differing degrees of durability when dealing with weather elements such as rain and wind. Window frames can also provide various benefits for energy efficiency in your home.

There are different types of window frame materials to choose from. Read on for common frame materials and their characteristics.

Material Pros and Cons:

Aluminum Frames:

• Strong and light weight.
• Require little maintenance and very durable.
• Do not rust, rot or absorb water.
• Resistant to warping.
• Less expensive than wood and composite frames.
• Conduct heat very rapidly; leads to poor insulation.
• Subject to condensation.
• Long-lasting.
• Can become cold to the touch; reduces energy efficiency.

Vinyl Frames:

• Very strong.
• Good insulation.
• Little maintenance — do not require painting.
• Resistant to water.
• Can be custom sized to fit inside existing window opening
• Fewer color options than other types of windows.
• Stronger frame material allow for thicker, heavier insulated glass units
• Most top end vinyl windows come with lifetime warranties

Wood Frames:

• Most aesthetically pleasing and traditional choice.
• Highly energy efficient.
• Durable and strong.
• Can be made in any color.
• Sensitive to weather conditions; can expand.
• Require a lot of maintenance to keep them in good shape.
• Expensive compared to some other frame materials.
• Fewer replacement installation options, generally require a full frame installation.
• Need staining or painting every three to five years.
• Annual maintenance is recommended to increase frames life span.

Composite Frames:

• Resistant to cracking, peeling and splitting.
• Very stable and durable.
• Filling air cavities results in superior thermal performance.
• Good resistance to weather elements.
• Expensive because they are new to the market.
• Limited colors and styles compared to other frame materials.

Steel Frames:

• Most durable and weather resistant window frame material.
• Likely to outlast any other material.
• Very heavy.
• Subject to rust.
• Few manufacturers’ options compared to other frame materials.
• Expensive.
• Generally not used in residential homes.

Conclusion

Since choosing the right windows and doors is very important to your home, learn all you can to make educated decisions. Here we provide you with information about both functional and aesthetic options offered in window and door products.