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Andersen Windows Review – Prices, Options – You Decide

December 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Andersen replacement windows

“Since 1903 Andersen Windows have been an industry leader. They have been reinventing the window industry with countless products over those 108 years. They are world renowned for their innovations in home improvement. Andersen Windows provide a one of a kind professional installation process and supply you with beautiful, custom, professionally installed windows…”


Andersen is a person to person company without the big business attitude. They provide custom service which means each job is unique. This requires a staff base that is able to listen to the customers while being skillful enough to make the correct designs to fit his or her needs. If proving this impeccable service for over a century was not enough, Andersen backs it up with the strongest warranty offer in the entire industry.

Andersen renewal windows are just that, renewed windows. They take your current window and replace it with an innovative new, custom product. These windows are tailored for a perfect air tight fit. Andersen replacement windows have a special patent that makes them stand above the rest. The air tight seal saves you money each and every month on your bills.

Most people lose countless dollars off their energy and heating bills because of faulty windows. With Andersen, you will not only get a brighter home thanks to their special low e-4 glass, you will also save money with their energy efficient seal. Average customers have reported to cut their energy and heat costs by more than 25%!

This low e-4 glass performs better than any other glass on the market. It nearly eliminates all sound penetration making your home free of noises from the outside world. This glass is made from renewed materials. The steps Andersen has taken in making sure their products are eco-friendly has earned them Green Seal Certification. They are the only brand in the entire window industry that is able to say that. When you purchase an Andersen Renewal product, you can be sure it has done no harm to the environment around you.

Andersen has a wide range of products that fit in with the style and architecture of your home. These products include,

  • Andersen Casement Replacement Windows
  • Andersen Double-Hung Windows
  • Andersen Awning Windows
  • Andersen Storm Windows
  • Andersen Vinyl Replacement Windows
  • Andersen Gliding Windows
  • Andersen Specialty Windows
  • Andersen Skylights
  • Andersen Bay Windows
  • Andersen Transom Windows

The frames are made out of solid wood and come in many colors and stains to best match your home. There is also a wood composite material that is called Fibrex which is unique to the Andersen brand. Fibrex is extremely durable and eco-friendly as it is made from renewed materials. This is just another reason why Andersen Windows are considered to be the best replacement windows money can buy.

For the quality of the product, the service provided and the long term warranty, Andersen Window Prices are an incredible value. Andersen Windows cost slightly more than average, but are backed by an iron clad warranty. You are also making a great investment for your home. Andersen Renewal Windows improve the value of your home drastically. They also bright and boost the environment while providing complete insulation to heat or cold. They are also the only window that guarantees to save you money on your bills. Combining professional installation, beauty, performance and value are four reasons why your replacement windows should come from Andersen.

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HardiePlank Siding – What is it?

September 7, 2011 By 1 Comment

WHAT IS HARDIEPLANK SIDING

hardieplank siding has been growing in popularity due to the fact this company listens to its customers. Their fiber cement siding is long lasting, durable and comes with one of the best warranties in the business.

“Not so long ago James Hardie decided to come up with a new form of fiber cement siding and the rest was history.”

Why Hardieplank Siding


 

Nowadays you can find hardieplank siding on over four million homes alone throughout the U.S.. Why? Because HardiePlank Siding is an industry standard of excellence and does with it was designed to do, protect one’s home or structure and do so with that creative flair that has come to be a standard in the industry.

Benefits of Hardieplank Siding

 

The HardiePlank Siding revolution has homeowners far more than pleased and satisfied. That’s because no other siding solution comes close to this product. There is protection against water, wind, debris, fire, and insects. Fiber cement siding is so strong that it acts as weatherization proofing as well. Cold and inclement weather doesn’t stand a chance against this product. A very strong addition to your energy saving needs. Think of HardiePlank Siding as your shield against when Mother Nature when it turns on you and that’s not an understatement. It’s designed to stand up to winds of 140 miles per hour! Waterproof, fireproof, resistant to heat, cold, insects, and mold this company has provided some powerful products for the homeowner that are affordable and boosts the property’s value and equity from the start.

Hardieplank Siding has unbeatable warranties

Not only that, but the company is one of the most comprehensive full service companies you’ll find. They work with their customers from the first step and stay with them for decades to come and back it up with warranties that stunned the home improvement industry. That’s right, HardiePlank Siding has a 50 year warranty on it. That’s standing by a product and then some! You’ll be rest assured that the money you invest in their siding will have them standing by you along the way. They want to see your home look nice, keep those energy bills down and furthermore, give their company a boost in deserved recognition. Word of mouth has had the company rolling on the momentum of its products, customer care and expertise. They’ll sit down with you and assess how much siding you’ll need,Hardieplank Siding Cost, what kind of siding is best, the color, How to Install Hardieplank Siding configuration and more. They’ve even got software that you can use to customize your home to your specs. Once that’s done you choose whether to install the Hardieplank lap siding yourself or have them do it. Either way you win out because the improvement in your home will result in nothing less than breathtaking results and peace of mind.

 

In addition, the company just doesn’t have siding, they have several other products and designs. Each is engineered for the longevity and efficiency of the product. From trim to weather proofing you’ll find the James Hardieplank siding collection of home improvement products second to none.

Hardieplank Siding Cost

They’re aware that the traditional siding solutions are cheaper but they also know they’re not as reliable as HardiePlank Siding. Sure the Hardie products call for a bit more elbow grease to handle during installation but that’s a small price to pay considering what the provide and continue to pay back for decades to come. You’re not just spending money when it comes to this siding, you’re doing more than investing too. You’ve got your write-offs and insurance premiums that should drop so adding the discounts and other factors you’re getting away with a bargain you just can’t turn down when considering Hardieplank siding cost.

 

Extremely attractive Hardieplank colors with styles to fit every taste, durable enough to last for decades, protection against the elements including fire and debris and you’re talking a siding solution that will be the smartest decision you’ve made for your home since buying it.

 

 

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Roof problems and roofing solutions

July 11, 2011 By 1 Comment

Your home is not only where you lay your head each night, but it is what keeps both you and your family safe. Keeping your home in optimal shape is of vital importance, and nothing is as important as the roof that protects the entire house. Unfortunately some roofing materials are more susceptible to damage and issues than others.

There are numerous problems and issues that can arise with roofs. These complications vary depending on what style of roof you have, how old it is, whether you have a chimney or not, the materials used to build the roof, and many more factors. Depending on which problem you encounter, the solution to fix your roofing problem will vary. Below is a list of common roof problems and some suggested solutions to resolve the situation.

Common roof issues with roof shingles:

One of the most common roof problems occurs with asphalt shingles. These shingles are what are used on the majority of houses because of the fact that they are fairly inexpensive and a lot easier to install then other roofing materials. Unfortunately these shingles have a tendency to develop a few issues if there is a defect with the materials or if they were installed improperly.

Some of the roof problems that may occur with these asphalt shingles are premature cracking, blistering, or the loss of the gravel on the applique layer. These problems can not only damage the interior of your house by allowing water to leak through, but it can also decrease your houses value drastically. If the shingles are defective then the best solution is to call the manufacturer, they often have a warranty and you may be able covered. If not, contact a local roofing contractor to help you solve this issue before any serious damage is done.

Common Flat Roof Problems:

Another common issue residential/commercial property owners run into is with flat roofs. Some flat roof problems include pooling of water and the bowing under the weight of snow. Also since water can freely stand on these roofs, these roofs often have rust in applicable places. If your roof has rust or is beginning to sag, then these are serious issues that you need to deal with. First, if there is water pooling on your roof make sure it is removed within two to three days by adding roof drains or even putting an automatic siphon in the center of the roof. If the roof is sagging in certain spots then it is suggested to brace it and work on preventing weight form collecting in that spot in the future to prevent more damage – hire a flat roofing contractor to solve the problem.

Metal Roof Problems:

Some people prefer the uniqueness of metal roofs, but don’t realize the work that can accompany them. One big issue with these roofs is if they are installed incorrectly. The metal flashing around chimneys is a common place for water to leak through, and also if the roof is a flat-lock metal roof then it can be sealed improperly. If there are sealant problems then the person who installed the roof should be contacted. If you hired a contractor to install your metal roof there will likely be a warranty on it and they can come fix their mistake and reseal it properly.

Clay tile roofing problems

For those homeowners who wanted a different look and chose clay roofing tiles, they may be incredibly pleased with the Spanish/Italian look that their house has achieved but they should be wary of a few hazards that come with this building material. Clay tiles are grey because they can’t burn, rot, rust, or be eaten by insects. Despite all of those cons, these tiles have a few negatives. Not only do they weight a lot, but they break easily. To counteract the weight, make sure that the support beams and all of the internal structures on your house can properly support them. If there is any sagging then additional support will be needed in that area. Also, if you plan to go onto your roof to clean gutters or your chimney, then this can be a tricky task. These tiles are breakable and any rough handling can result in several broken tiles. Best thing to do to avoid this is avoid walking or putting any heavy materials on the roof as much as humanly possible. As a precaution for the future, when you are ordering tiles for the roof, order quite a few extra and store them this way you have them for future maintenance.

Many people do not consider their roofs to be a big problem until an issue comes up. Despite the wide variety of roofing options available, there isn’t one that has absolutely no issues that can go wrong with it. If you are looking for roofing solutions for a particular issue you are having, it is best to consult an experienced professional for additional help. Despite the possible problems for each type of roof, most of the time issues can be avoided with proper installation and maintenance.


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Why is Roof Ventilation So Important? Discover benefits of Roof Vents

June 26, 2011 By 2 Comments

this picture diplays how a properly vented roof should look like.

The ROOF and ATTIC, two vital areas of the house where homeowners dare to enter, or care to look at – until the problems start.. If you’ve ever had a new roof installed in the past, your roofing contractor may have insisted that you install some type of roof ventilation and soffit ventilation system. However, some homeowners feel that there roofer might be trying to pull a fast one by having you spend extra money on some kind of magical upgrade. In fact, roof ventilation isn’t all hocus pocus and magical card tricks, but, really do play a crucial role in extending the life of your roofing shingles, reducing ice dams, lowered cooling bills in the summer, etc..

Old home Vs new  home roof ventilation

You’ve probably caught an episode or two of This Old House, or some show on HGTV and have learned that older homes tend to have little, to any kind of roof ventilation and inadequate insulation, but their roof seems to be holding up just fine. The reason for this, older homes lack window and door insulation, vapor barriers, and are generally not as airtight by today’s standards. This causes drafty homes and higher energy bills, but, also helps fight the lack of roof and soffit ventilation by having continuous air circulation in your home.

In newer homes, home builders have energy efficiency on their minds when building houses. Starting with proper roof ventilation, vapor barriers, window and door insulation, to name a few. This keeps heating/cooling bills low and a longer lasting roof.

Roof Ridge Vents – How Can I Tell If I Need Any?

The best way to tell if your roof isn’t properly ventilated, is in extreme climate months – summer and winter. Have you ever gone up into your attic on a hot summer day and said “HOLY S###, IT’S LIKE A SAUNA IN HERE!” – I wonder how my photo album is holding up??? In the winter, you might see Ice dams forming on top of your roof. Ice dams on your roof can cause a lot of problems, from roof shingle damage, to roof leaks causing mold and rot to occur.

what are the signs of bad roof ventilation correct way to ventilate a roof

If you need to have roof ventilation installed in your home, consult with a professional in your area. I wouldn’t advise any homeowner to get up on their roof to install ridge vents. There’s also a proper way to install ridge vents. For example, you need to calculate the total area of your attic for vent/to air flow ratio’s to ensure proper air-flow and the list goes on. So, consult with a roofing contractor to see what you need to have done.

If you’ve any questions, drop me a comment in the comment box and I’ll do my best to answer any and all roof ventilation questions..


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What Causes Window Condensation – How To Stop Window Condensation

December 2, 2010 By 10 Comments

What Causes Window Condensation


Being a builder and home improvement contractor, I’m always asked what seems like a million home improvement questions from friends and family of mine. However, the type of question I’m often asked the most around winter time and summer, is what causes window condensation. So I thought I’d put my best foot fourth and try to help out someone whom might be concerned about window condensation in their homes.

Window condensation in most cases boils down to how your home was built, plain and simple. New residential homes nowadays are being built with better building practices and materials to ensure high energy efficiency ratings. For example, improved insulation, tighter vapor barriers and a higher quality energy efficent air filtration system to name a few. With all of these energy efficient improvements, results in having “air tight” home. Having an “air tight” home isn’t necessarily a bad thing, don’t get me wrong. Having a “air tight” home is what keeps are heating and cooling bills low, more energy efficient.

For many, the biggest culprit in window condensation is the level of humidity in the air. Humidity is basically (water vapor in the air) humidity is a way we measure how much mositure is in the air. Water vapor is created in many ways around the house. For example, taking your everyday shower, washing and drying your clothes, cooking, your plants around the house create moisture, breathing creates moisture. Take a look at your window after you’ve had a shower, it will be dripping in moisture – unless you’ve your bathroom exhuast fan running..

So what is condensation? Condensation is formed when water vapor comes in contact with a cool surface such as your windows and then transforms back into a liquid state on your windows. So for condensation to form on your windows, the temperature of your windows must be below or at the dew point of the air touching the glass. Have you ever had a cold drink on a hot day? Have you noticed what happens to the outside of your glass? It begins to build moisture on the outside of the glass cup.

Condensation in Older Homes V’S Newer Homes

In my experience as a home builder, homes built before 1960 don’t really have this problem. The reason for this, is because most homes built before this era didn’t get all of the extra treatment newer homes get in regards to insulation, vapor barriers, air filtration systems, etc.. So in essence, are more prone to drafts and air leakage. This helps with keeping moisture out of the home and the walls breathing. The only down side to this, is higher energy bills.

How To Stop Window Condensation

Well, you can’t totally stop window condensation, but you can reduce window condensation. Here are some basic ways to reduce window condensation. You want to do your best at controlling all sources of humidity such as venting all gas burners, dryers to the outdoors. Leave your bath vents, stove vents running for at least a half and hour long after you cook or take a shower.

  • Cracking open a window or door daily to air out your house.
  • Opening a window or running exhaust fans longer in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room.
  • Opening drapes and blinds, allowing air to circulate against windows.
  • Turning off any humidifying device in your home.
  • Installing and using a dehumidifier.
  • If you live in a northern climate, the above as well as the following points may be relevant.
  • Adding storm windows or replacing existing single-pane windows with insulated windows.
  • Keeping plants in a sunroom, or in rooms that are infrequently used during extreme cold weather.
  • Adding waterproof protection to basement floors and walls.
  • Removing radiator pans until sweating has been eliminated.
  • Making sure that open-faced gas heaters are connected to a chimney and using them as little as possible.


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Cleaning Vinyl Siding – What Not to do! Pros & Cons

April 28, 2010 By 5 Comments

how to clean vinyl siding using bleach

Cleaning Vinyl Siding Made Easy

Vinyl siding is one of the easiest ways to go if you want an exterior that is easy to clean. Cleaning vinyl siding often includes little more than a pressure washer or a soapy bucket of water and elbow grease. Choosing which cleaning method is really up to the individual homeowner, though most agree that the soapy water and elbow grease method is the best way to go.  Either way, cleaning vinyl siding is a breeze.

Which method is best for my home?


When choosing the method of how to clean your vinyl siding, you really need only look at two options.  One is pressure washing the vinyl, and the other is by hand.  The vinyl siding really determines which one you should go with.  If the vinyl is well done, and the corners, creases and seams of the vinyl are done properly, you can likely clean using a pressure washer. If you have many creases and poorly done corners, you need to do it by hand.  The reason for this is because a pressure washer will usually be powerful enough to get into the creases of the siding and wet the wooden parts underneath, if your homes exterior walls doesn’t have a protective vapor barrier between the siding and the walls sheathing.  This can lead to mold and other serious problems.  You have to be careful either way you are cleaning vinyl siding, because even a water hose can shoot water behind the siding if you are careless.

How do I clean my vinyl siding with a pressure washer?

The key to cleaning vinyl siding with a pressure washer is to use the right solution.  The commercial vinyl siding cleaners are great, but household dishwashing liquid mixed with water is just as good.  Regardless, you want to make certain you are not using bleach.  Bleach is loaded with toxins that will kill your plants, shrubs and trees quickly when the water seeps into the ground, and also can eat away at the protective coating layers of your vinyl siding. Oxygen bleach is better if you must use bleach on bad stains or mildew.

Begin by spraying the vinyl siding in sections of 2 to 4 feet at a downward motion, never, I repeat never spray upwards at your siding, you’ll risk water seeping in through behind the siding.  Do not move on to another section of vinyl siding until you rinse the current one.  This will leave ugly patches if the solution dries before rinsing.  You will clean your siding from bottom to top, taking careful precautions to spray at 45 degree downward angle. Also, you want to avoid direct spray from the pressure washer, direct spray can seep into the cracks and crevices easily.  Shoot away from the edges of windows and doors to avoid seepage as well.

How do I clean my vinyl siding by hand?

 


This is considered the safest way to clean vinyl siding because it is the least intrusive on the crevices and seams.  You can set your water hose to the low setting so you are not using a direct spray on the vinyl.  While this is good, it does mean that you will be cleaning vinyl siding the old fashioned way – by hand.  No worries though – vinyl siding is super easy to get clean.  Get that soap filled bucket (the same as used with the pressure washer above) and a nice extend-arm soft brush and get busy!

Cleaning by hand is similar in most ways to pressure washing. You will wet the section, work from bottom to top, and then rinse at a 45 degree angle. You can use a ladder and traditional soft brush, but an extend-arm is much easier when cleaning vinyl siding. Take special care around windows, doors and seams and you will be just fine.

Regardless of your method of cleaning vinyl siding, you will find that it is easy as can be.  No other form of housing material comes close, and that is one of the many reasons that vinyl siding is so popular.

 

To learn more about vinyl siding and vinyl siding prices or hardie board prices – visit anyone of the highlighted links.

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