Energy Efficient Windows RI

Ask The Energy Experts
Question of the Day:
We are fixing up an older home in Rhode Island, and in the process, we want to make it energy efficient, lower our carbon footprint, and still have the house retain its traditional look. We have already installed energy efficient appliances, and now we’re remodeling. What tips do you have?

The Energy Expert Says:
There’s a lot of talk these days about reducing our “carbon footprints,” through energy efficiency and conscious consumerism. Before I answer your question, let’s define those three terms:

1. Carbon Footprint: Your carbon footprint is a measurement of the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions you create each year. Measured in pounds or tons, a carbon footprint takes into account the emissions generated by nearly everything you do or buy: driving your vehicles and using other methods of transportation, using energy in your home, and purchasing products (with regard to their manufacturing, packaging, and distribution processes).

2. Energy Efficiency: This is a term that gets thrown around so much that it’s hard to discern what’s really energy efficient and what’s not. Any product can claim to be “more energy efficient” if it’s being compared to an outdated model. The key is finding products that are not only more efficient than their previous counterparts, but that are truly advanced in saving energy through their proper use. This usually translates to lower long-term user costs and a reduced carbon footprint through less energy usage.

3. Conscious Consumerism: Being a conscious consumer is a pretty simple concept, and it’s basically about making choices that are better for the planet by purchasing items that require less energy to manufacture, distribute, and use. For example, purchasing environmentally friendly, energy efficient products for your home (such as those made at least in part with recycled materials) means you are being a conscious consumer and it lowers your personal carbon emissions.

You’ve already done one big thing to lower your carbon footprint: you’ve chosen to upgrade your home and its appliances with energy efficiency in mind. On average, approximately one quarter of a typical American’s carbon footprint comes from home energy usage. That means increasing the energy efficiency in your home can drastically reduce your carbon footprint overall. And since you are remodeling, this is a great opportunity to do just that.

One of the best ways to lower your carbon footprint at home is by installing energy efficient windows. RI homeowners who switch from traditional dual-pane glass to an energy efficient option, such as Low-E4™ Glass, can see about a 50% increase in energy efficiency. Not only does this lower your carbon footprint, it saves you money. With the right energy efficient windows, RI residents can save as much as 25% on their energy bills. Plus, through the UV ray blocking capability of energy efficient windows, RI homeowners see less fading of furnishings and floor and wall coverings, helping those items last longer, again reducing your carbon footprint.

Even with an older or historic home, it is possible to have energy efficient windows. RI has many qualified, reputable installers who offer custom, energy efficient windows with energy efficient glass and energy efficient frames. These, of course, are the ideal type of energy efficient windows. RI homeowners who opt for an energy efficient frame material can further reduce their carbon footprint through conscious consumerism. For example, Fibrex® window frames are made with at least 40% reclaimed wood fiber (less environmental impact), have extremely high resistance to temperature changes (less heat transfer means lower energy consumption), and they’re low maintenance (fewer paint purchases, less chemical usage, lower carbon footprint).

For more information on energy efficient windows, RI residents can contact us at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free in-home estimate.

Energy Efficient Windows CT

For Connecticut (CT) homeowners, autumn is an excellent time to review the state of your home and undertake any necessary repairs or improvements before winter sets in, making exterior repairs much more challenging. Basic routine maintenance at this time of year, such as a roof inspection and gutter cleaning, can help you prevent damage from accumulating leaves and settling water in the fall and snow or ice accumulation in the winter. Larger tasks aimed at increasing the energy efficiency of your home through repairs and improvement projects can save you money on heating and cooling costs year round. Whether for repairs or improvements, autumn is definitely a time to take stock of your home and prepare for winter.

Where to Start
Start by simply walking around your home, inside and out. Look for loose siding, foundation cracks, warped window frames, cracked or broken windows, and other visible damage. If you can safely do so, inspect and clean your gutters and roof. These last two tasks are often best left to professionals who are trained to spot problems in their earliest stages and fix them before real damage occurs. Consult your gutter and/or roof contractor about adding gutter guards and heated, GFCI-protected cables to your gutter system in order to reduce the need for cleaning, keep your gutters working properly, and hence keep your roof and foundation in better condition.

What Next?
Check for drafts around every point of entry. If there’s no wind, test by aiming a fan or blow dryer (on a low setting) around the edges of windows and doors. Some people carry a candle when doing this, having a partner directing the airflow from the other side of the window or door. If the candle flickers, you’ve found a weak spot. Be sure to repair small cracks or dried caulking to keep out drafts, and add or replace weather stripping where appropriate.

Last Step
If you notice drafts or warping around multiple windows, or if you have old-fashioned dual-pane glass windows, you may want to consider having a few professionals come out and give you estimates on upgrading to energy efficient windows. CT homeowners who switch from dual-pane to more advanced types of windows can dramatically reduce their energy usage.

With energy efficient windows, CT residents can reduce their winter heating costs by as much as 25%.  Choosing products such as Low-E4™ Glass or SmartSun™ Glass will also help reduce heat transfer in the summer, keeping your home’s temperature more consistent and reducing energy costs. In fact, with energy efficient windows, CT homeowners have a product that can be up to 70% more energy efficient in the summer than dual-pane glass.

Additionally, with energy efficient windows, CT homes use less energy because such windows are housed in specially designed frames that resist warping and cracking far better than traditional wood, vinyl, or aluminum frames. This means less maintenance and no drafts wasting the energy being used to heat your home.

For more information on preparing your home for winter or installing energy efficient windows, CT homeowners can contact us 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free in-home estimate.

Door Connecticut

Door Replacement

Replacing exterior doors can be a complicated task: First determining whether to repair or replace, then choosing from the myriad of options available, and finally properly installing and maintaining your new door. Connecticut homeowners and others in the northeast often have additional concerns when replacing doors, such as whether to add screen or storm doors, and how to find a door that will reduce heat transfer, thus helping keep the house warm through the winter months.

Front Doors:
Front doors generally last quite a while, so their replacement is  often done as an aesthetic choice or as an effort to increase a home’s energy efficiency. When replacing a front door, Connecticut residents should consider lifespan, exposure to the elements, energy efficiency, aesthetics, cost, durability, and security. Of course, these elements rank differently in order of importance for different people, but considering each one will help you choose the right replacement door. Most importantly, homeowners should take their time researching and exploring the benefits of the various types of front doors before making a purchase, as there are advantages and liabilities to each option.

Patio Doors:
Patio doors are much different from front doors in that they are available in not only a wide variety of finishes and styles, but also in varying forms such as sliding glass, French doors, gliding doors, and several others. Some styles are more conducive to adding screen doors or storm doors on the outside, while others work best on their own. When choosing a new patio door, Connecticut homeowners should consider all of the same aspects listed under Front Doors above, and also consider how the new door(s) will work with the décor of the room from which it opens. Will changing the door require furniture to be moved, window dressings to be replaced, or other interior changes to be made? These additional requirements can add significant costs to the project.

Storm and Screen Doors:
Sometimes it’s a good idea to add a storm or screen door outside of your front or patio door. Connecticut homeowners can benefit moderately from energy savings when using storm doors, as they do add an extra layer of protection from heat transfer. However, they do not tend to increase energy efficiency enough to rapidly offset their costs. Rather, storm doors, just like screen doors, are more a personal choice. Do you like to be able to see out the front door from inside? A screen or storm door will allow you to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your home all year round.

Whether out of necessity or desire to improve the look or energy efficiency of your home, there’s much to consider when replacing a door. Connecticut homeowners looking for more information can contact us at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free in-home estimate.

Doors CT

With the fall season right around the corner, homeowners are trying to enjoy the last few signs of summer while preparing for the upcoming change of seasons.  One of the biggest changes in the season will be the weather. 

You will want to keep the heat in your home and one of the easiest ways to do that is by checking your windows and doors. CT homeowners should inspect their homes to be sure that their windows and doors have a tight seal.  This will prevent your heat from going right out the window (pun intended) and your wallet.

Take a walk around your home.  Pay close attention to the caulking and weather stripping around the frame of the windows and doors.  CT homeowners should look for gaps that can cause air to escape and moisture to build up.  If the current caulking and weather stripping is missing or cracked, you will want to replace it. 

There are a number of products out there and in general caulking is the one used most since it is ideal for gaps up to ½ in size.  For larger gaps you can use a latex foam or polyurethane foam sealant based on the size.  Caulking and weather stripping are to be done on windows that are in good overall condition and has a few minor cracks.  Both are ineffective on windows that are old and in need of replacing. 

If you are interested in replacing your windows or doors, Connecticut homeowners should fill out the form on the right for a free consultation. 

Patio Doors CT

As summer winds down, it’s time to think about preparing for the cooler weather of autumn and winter. For Connecticut (CT) residents, and those throughout the northeast in particular, taking a little time to prepare now can prevent costly problems later.

One of the biggest problems for northeastern homeowners in the cooler weather months is heat transfer, which occurs when a home’s heat leaks out (transfers) through cracks, windows, doorframes, and other weak points. As the temperature drops and home heating becomes essential, utility bills can skyrocket. When heat transfer is not properly controlled, those costs can go even higher, wasting incredible amounts of money and energy. Fortunately, homeowners can keep those costs under control by limiting the amount of heat being wasted when it leaks out through such openings as windows and patio doors. CT homeowners who plan ahead can greatly reduce these costs by taking some simple precautions.

First, it’s important to understand that some heat transfer is inevitable. There is only so much that can be done to keep heat from escaping through traditional glass windows and patio doors. CT residents with older homes are particularly prone to these challenges, as they are more likely to have standard dual-pane glass windows and simple glass patio doors, which do little to retain heat in the winter. So the first place to start is with an evaluation of the home’s windows and doors, especially glass ones such as patio doors. CT has such variable weather through the year that window frames and doorframes can easily swell, shrink, and warp, creating easy points of access for drafts and increasing heat transfer.

Walk around the home, inside and out, checking for cracks or other damage. If there is any damage or excess wear to a home’s siding, windows, or patio doors, CT homeowners have a wide variety of licensed contractors to choose from for repair and replacement work. Often, the cost of replacement will be offset by the energy savings realized through installation of energy-efficient windows, composite window frames, and draft-free patio doors. CT winters are harsh, and these simple repairs are an excellent way to fight the cold and its related expenses.

Of course, not all damage and wear is easily visible. As autumn rolls in and cool evening winds become the norm, it becomes much easier to locate some sources of heat transfer. For example, around sliding glass patio doors, CT homeowners often feel drafts because there are multiple ways for air to enter there. For traditional sliding glass doors, when a draft enters at the base of the sliding door, many homeowners choose to simply use “draft dodgers” or “draft stoppers” (stuffed rolls of fabric) to block the draft. However, when the leak comes from the “static” side (the non-moving side of the sliding doors), the best solution is proper caulking. When drafts come through where the doors meet or where the sliding door meets the wall, weather stripping is the best solution, although installing it can be tricky.

There are many types of windows and doors that are prone to drafts in addition to the sliding doors mentioned above. The thing to keep in mind is that nearly all traditional windows and doors can allow heat transfer, so installing energy-efficient replacements can often be a worthwhile investment that will keep energy costs down year round. For information about evaluating the energy efficiency of your windows and patio doors, CT homeowners and those throughout the northeast can contact us at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free-in home estimate.

Energy Efficient Windows Rhode Island

Energy costs are continually rising throughout the U.S., and many homebuilders and contractors are attempting to help offset these costs by using more energy efficient products. One of the simplest ways to do this is by installing energy efficient windows. Rhode Island homeowners can realize significant cost savings and greatly reduce their personal level of environmental impact by taking advantage of these outstanding products.

Where Do I Start?
First, it’s important to note that, as with any products, there is can be a very big difference in cost and performance between various brands of energy efficient windows. Rhode Island residents are fortunate, however, as there are numerous reliable, professional installers available to help them make informed choices about window products. So the best place to start is by finding a reputable window contractor.

Finding a contractor doesn’t have to be a stressful undertaking. Check out online reviews, consult neighbors and other local contacts, and visit the Better Business Bureau website for ratings and information. Once you’ve narrowed your search down to a handful of contractors, make individual appointments and go from there.

What Should I Look For?
There are two main elements of a window to consider when installing replacement windows: window materials and window glass. Energy efficient windows are not just windows with energy efficient glass. They’re also framed with energy efficient materials made to last longer and provide better seals, preventing heat and cold transfer, keeping your home comfortable all year round.

For window frames, one of the best brands on the market is called Fibrex™ Material. As strong as traditional wood frames, Fibrex™ was developed to resist wear and aging, so it does not rot, mold, or decay over time. Because it comes in lots of different colors (both interior and exterior finishes), Fibrex™ is suitable for most homes, and, paired with the right glass, makes for truly energy efficient windows. Rhode Island homeowners with low-maintenance Fibrex™ windows can be confident that their windows will last, as this material comes with a warranty against all flaking, peeling, blistering, cracking, or corrosion. Consumers who appreciate the reduced environmental impact of energy efficient products will also be pleased to know that Fibrex™ is made from over 40% reclaimed wood fiber, making it an environmentally responsible option.

Glass is the next element in energy efficient windows. Rhode Island has such dramatically changing weather through the year that the right window glass can actually reduce energy costs by 25%. The energy efficient Low E4 and the Smart Sun glass series are among the best on the market. Not only are these glass options attractive and durable, they reduce heat and cool transfer and dramatically block the majority of harmful UV rays from the sun. This UV blocking protects your skin and will prevent fading of furniture and floor and wall coverings, so you can leave the curtains open and enjoy the view!

Many energy efficient windows also reduce the amount of street noise entering your home, which is an added benefit. Plus, most of these products are available in a wide range of styles, from casement windows to French door panes and transoms to custom bay windows. Talk to potential contractors about all of your options, as the amount of products on the market means there is almost definitely an energy efficient window that’s just right for your home.

When considering installing energy efficient windows, Rhode Island residents can contact us for information at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free-in home estimate.

Patio Doors MA

Summer is a time for barbecues and backyard fun. It’s a time to eat dinner outside on the patio and enjoy an early evening breeze. For some Massachusetts (MA) residents, however, opening their patio doors after a long winter of keeping them shut tight reminds them that summer is also a time for overdue home improvement projects.

By replacing old patio doors, MA homeowners can accomplish several things at once:

•    Improve energy efficiency year-round.
•    Let more natural light into the home.
•    Change the look and feel of surrounding areas, both interior and exterior.
•    Improve home security.
•    Bring older homes up to current code compliance.

There’s a lot to consider when replacing patio doors. MA homeowners who want the job done properly will get the best results by hiring a professional installer. As with any home improvement project, it’s important to take your time, check references, and get at least three estimates before hiring someone to replace your patio doors. MA has a wealth of knowledgeable, licensed contractors who can do the job right.

Regardless of whether they’re building an entire home or replacing a single set of patio doors, MA contractors must be licensed with the state. Before you even call for an estimate, check out potential contractors online by visiting the Department of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

Once you’re confident that you have a list of reputable contractors, set up individual appointments for consultations and estimates. When meeting with each prospective contractor, consider the benefits listed above and ask some related questions:

1.    What kind of energy-efficient products do you offer? What kind of improvement can I expect to see in my energy usage with these products? Will installing these patio doors entitle me to a tax rebate?
2.    What type of UV protection is built into the glass you use? Will it prevent carpet, furniture, and wall coverings from fading? Will it offer protection again skin damage if we choose to leave the glass uncovered to let in the natural light?
3.    What finishes, materials, colors, and options do you offer that would work well with our interior decor and exterior facade?
4.    What security features do your doors offer? Will you work with our alarm company to ensure that everything works properly?
5.    Are the existing doors and door space up to code? If not, what is involved in bringing them up to code?
6.    What type of warranty do your patio doors carry? What type of post-installation service do you offer?

Once you’ve selected a contractor, be sure to get copies of the company’s licensing and insurance information, a signed contract that includes start and end dates, and copies of all applicable warranty information on your newly purchased patio doors.

If you are interested in replacing the patio doors on your MA home, please contact us any time at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free-in home estimate.

New Door CT

Need to shake up the look of your home?  One of the easiest and cheapest ways to accomplish this is by adding a new door.  CT homeowners looking to up their curb appeal can buy a new entry door to give the home a more sophisticated look.  It is relatively inexpensive and according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Vale Report, it is one of the home improvements with the best return on investment.  What is better than that?

If your current door is in good condition, you can always repaint it to freshen up the look of your home.  How about trying a bold color?  For example, if your home is white with black shutters, a red door could really add to your home’s style and curb appeal. 

If you need a new door, CT homeowners should consider what type of door they would like.  Factors to consider are: glass, materials of door, locking mechanism, and design.  The door is the gateway inot your home and should reflect you personal style.

If you are looking to freshen up the look of your home with a new door, Connecticut homeowners can fill out the form on the right for a free door consultation.

Patio Doors Connecticut

Patio doors

Connecticut homeowners may use them often in good weather, but they’re generally not something most people give much thought to. In reality, the right patio doors can make a big difference in a home, and not just in appearance.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency should be at the top of the list when homeowners consider replacing their patio doors. Connecticut and other northeastern states are prone to long stretches of extremely cold, snowy, and windy weather, which translates into high heating costs. The right patio doors can actually lower a home’s heating bills with a combination of energy-efficient options:

•    Glass - Store-brand patio doors tend to have double pane glass or similarly standard-grade options. While this may be less expensive in the short term, it is most definitely a costlier choice overall. Connecticut homeowners can significantly increase their energy efficiency (and hence lower their heating bills) by choosing patio doors with energy-efficient glass, such as those offered by Renewal By Andersen. Energy-efficient glass can decrease heating costs by as much as 25%, making it an essential when choosing new patio doors.

•    Weather stripping – Many patio doors have weather stripping that only covers portions of the doors’ edges. This allows for drafts that decrease the effectiveness of a home’s heating system by making it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. That means the HVAC system has to work constantly, and as a result, heating costs increase. Continuous weather stripping, when properly installed, can actually create a draft-free environment, allowing a home’s heating and cooling system to perform its job more efficiently and helping keep costs down.

•    Professional installation – Having patio doors professionally installed actually does make a difference in energy efficiency because professionals have the experience to ensure that the job is done right. Installing patio doors can be tricky and definitely takes a team. It’s one home improvement job that’s often best left to the pros.

Security

When installing glass patio doors, Connecticut homeowners have one concern that has very little to do with weather: security. This is another area in which hiring a professional and opting for non-store-brand patio doors is really the best way to go. High quality patio doors will have multiple locking mechanisms to protect your home and loved ones.

When installing patio doors, Connecticut homeowners should always first contact their home alarm system monitoring company to ensure that the new doors will be compatible with the system and to avoid false alarms during the installation process. Some alarm companies will come out after the doors are installed to fit them with new alarm components, while others may want to come and work with the door installers. Either way, calling first can save headaches later.

If you are interested in installing new patio doors for your Connecticut home, please contact us at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free-in home estimate.

New Door RI

In a down economy and a true buyer’s market, Rhode Island (RI) home sellers face a rather daunting task when preparing their homes to show potential buyers. They’re often filled with questions: Do we sell it as it is? Do we make cosmetic improvements? Which renovations would add value and help our home stand out in the market?

One of the first things to do when preparing to put an RI home on the market is to walk outside and take a good look at the house. How does the exterior look? Are there any defects? Do all the lighting elements work properly? Does the landscaping need attention? What about the paint? These issues speak to what Realtors call “curb appeal.” Potential buyers pull up at the curb to see the house, and right then make a first judgment of whether the house appeals to them. That’s curb appeal. A house with poor curb appeal is one a potential buyer may not even bother to enter because it’s just not an attractive structure. A house with good curb appeal has buyers interested before they even walk through the door. So it makes sense that the front door is one of the best places to start when preparing to sell a home.

Hiring a New Door Installer
There are, of course, innumerable options when it comes to buying a new door. RI homeowners have a long list of qualified local installers, so choosing a company to install the new door is often a good first step. As with all home improvement projects, when hiring a contractor to install a new door, RI homeowners should take their time, interview at least three companies, check references, and get recommendations from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

When choosing a company to install a new door, there are factors to consider aside from the installers’ qualifications. It’s also important for RI homeowners to take into account the fact that new door installers won’t all carry the same products. So it’s worth the extra time to review the new door options each installer offers before settling on the right company. Additionally, prices may vary dramatically between providers of the same products, so it’s good to have estimates from multiple new door installers who carry the same lines when possible.

When it’s time to actually choose the new door, RI homeowners need to consider style, aesthetics, and functionality. With a vast array of new door options on the market, it’s easier than ever to make a choice that is not only attractive but also cost effective and energy efficient.

If you are interested in installing a new door for your RI home, contact us at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free-in home estimate.