Author: Rhonda Spencer

Reasons to Replace Your Windows

Rhonda Spencer Home Improvement , , , , ,
Replacement Windows

When you’re ready to replace your windows, it can be not very clear. There’s a lot of new vocabulary and insider jargon to get used to.Replacement Windows

The best place to start is by asking yourself what your goals, wants, and needs are for your window project. This will help you narrow your options to the best windows for your home. For professional help, contact Kelemer Brothers Replacement Windows.

Most homeowners don’t consider the potential energy savings when replacing old windows. New, energy-efficient windows are a great way to lower your energy bills while also helping to protect the environment. In fact, according to the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), by installing a set of ENERGY STAR-rated replacement windows in your home, you can expect a return of up to 73 percent of the initial cost.

The reason that new replacement windows can offer such a high return on investment is because of their ability to significantly reduce your energy consumption. Many older homes leak heat and air through windows, especially single-pane or poorly-insulated frames. This escaping energy costs you money on your heating and cooling bill every month. New double or triple-pane, insulated window systems are designed to help keep your home at the desired temperature without overusing your heating and air system.

This decrease in your energy consumption, due to the insulating properties of your new window system, is not only good for the environment, but it is also good for you and your wallet. In addition, by saving on your energy bills you can cut down on your use of nonrenewable fuels and the production of greenhouse gases.

Another monetary benefit of replacement windows is that they can help to increase your home’s value and curb appeal. Today’s wide array of window styles, sizes, frame materials and hardware finishes allow you to easily create a look that will blend with your home’s existing style and design. This continuity will enhance your home’s curb appeal and make it more appealing to future homebuyers if you decide to sell your house in the future.

Increased Curb Appeal

Whether you are interested in boosting your home’s curb appeal for resale purposes or just want to make it more welcoming, there are many ways to achieve this goal. Some of the most common include a new paint job, landscaping, and window replacement. Window replacement can have a profound effect on how your house looks from the outside, and they can add a lot to your property’s charm.

Windows that are outdated, damaged, or mismatched can detract from the look of a building. Fortunately, replacing them with beautiful new varieties can dramatically improve the overall appearance of your property. This is especially true if you replace all of the windows in your home at once, which will help ensure that they are all matching and complement each other.

Modern windows are designed to be eye-catching from the outside, with many of them featuring unique shapes and styles. They are also crafted with durable materials that will last for a long time, ensuring that they continue to enhance the look of your home. Moreover, they are available in a wide range of colors and finishes to allow you to customize the exterior aesthetic of your property.

You can even use different window treatments to stylize your windows to your tastes, from regal swags to simple Roman shades. This makes it easy to create a look that is unique and memorable. Plus, you can save time and effort by upgrading to windows with convenient features like between-the-glass blinds and sashes that tilt in for easy cleaning.

Increased Home Value

When you invest in replacement windows, they can actually increase your home’s value. Prospective buyers are more likely to pay a premium for a home with newer, beautiful-looking windows that are also energy efficient and have a low utility bill. Plus, they’re looking for a home that is safe and secure from bad weather and in good condition.

Newer windows are made with double pane glass and have improved energy efficiency compared to older single pane windows. Additionally, today’s windows come in a variety of styles and colors to complement your home’s style and exterior finish. In addition, some windows are designed to save you time and effort with features such as between-the-glass blinds and sashes that tilt in for easier cleaning.

Another benefit of replacement windows is that they are often less expensive than new construction windows. In fact, according to the Remodeling 2020 Cost vs. Value Report, new vinyl windows return up to 73% of the investment when you sell your home.

Generally speaking, replacement windows are used in homes with intact window frames and trim while new construction windows are typically installed during the initial building phase or when you add an addition to your home.

If you’re interested in learning more about replacement windows or the many options available, contact a trusted vinyl-pro dealer near you. A professional can help you find the right window type for your home and provide more details about their specific benefits. You can even check out our handy buying guide video to learn more about the different types of replacement windows available. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure your satisfaction with your new windows for years to come.

Quieter Home

Noise pollution is a huge problem, especially in urban areas, but new windows are a great way to combat it. Older windows let in a lot of outside noise, while newer replacement windows have insulated frames and double or triple-pane glass to minimize sound transfer. If you live near a busy street, the airport or other places with loud traffic, new windows can help make your home quieter for restful slumber and peaceful working or relaxing.

New window installation is an ideal time to take advantage of noise-reducing features, but you can also get a quieter home by adding in between-glass blinds or shades. This will eliminate the drafty, cold air that causes sounds to resonate and carry. You can even add blackout curtains that will further reduce noise while providing insulating protection from the sun.

Some homeowners are also able to snooze better with the help of noise-reducing sound machines that drown out annoying sirens, barking dogs or other noises. Whether you prefer ocean waves or white noise, these devices are available in many styles to help you relax and enjoy your home.

Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, curb appeal or a quieter home, replacement windows can provide a variety of benefits that are well worth the investment. To learn more, contact True View Windows and Glass today. We can help you select the style and brand of new windows that will best fit your home. We also have a number of financing options available, making it easier to upgrade your home. Our experienced team of professionals is committed to helping you find the right solution for your needs and budget. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Increased Comfort

Studies have shown that noise pollution is harmful to our health, so if you live in an area with heavy traffic or noisy neighbors, multi-pane replacement windows can help you and your family enjoy more restful slumber. The insulated frames and double or triple panes with argon gas between them help reduce noise pollution from lawn mowers, neighborhood dogs, cars, trucks, trains, and planes. A quieter home can lead to better quality sleep, allowing you to get more done throughout the day.

New and replacement windows form a tight seal that prevents air leaks, helping you save on energy costs. Properly installed insulated windows also block harmful UV rays that can cause your home’s furniture, fabrics, and flooring to fade or become damaged over time.

When shopping for replacement windows, choose a manufacturer that has a long track record of quality and service. Check how long the company has been in business, as well as their customer ratings and reviews. It’s also a good idea to see how they rank in the trade magazines that cover window and door manufacturing and installation.

There are several types of replacement windows, including flush fin, insert, and sliding windows. Flush fin windows feature a vinyl perimeter that makes them flush with the frame upon completion, and are a good choice for homes with aluminum frames. Insert replacement windows fit directly into the original window frame, helping preserve the interior trim and exterior stucco finish of older homes. Slider windows allow only the bottom sash to move, and are a good choice for small spaces.

When it comes to home improvement, replacing old, worn, and inefficient windows can add a significant return on investment, improve your home’s curb appeal, provide greater comfort, and increase your home’s value. To make the best decision, consider your home’s needs and style, as well as the local climate conditions.

How to Get Permits for a Bathroom Remodel

Rhonda Spencer Home Improvement , , , , ,
Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom remodel is one of the top five projects that add value to your home. They’re also ideal for addressing safety hazards like slippery floors, mold, and mildew.Bathroom Remodel

A bathroom remodeling project is a big undertaking. It’s also expensive and requires a significant amount of time, so it’s important to set realistic expectations about the results you can expect from your project.

Start by asking yourself what your goals are for the remodel. Do you want to improve the functionality of the space by adding storage or changing the layout? Or do you simply want to update the style of the room with new paint and fixtures?

The type of changes you make will determine the scope of your project. For example, if you are planning to expand the existing space by removing walls or adding square footage, this will require more demolition and construction than simply painting or changing the flooring. It will also require a permit from the local building department.

You may be able to save money on your bathroom remodeling by doing some of the work yourself. Refinishing your cabinets, for instance, can give them a brand-new look for less than the cost of replacing them. Purchasing secondhand bathroom fixtures and materials can be another way to cut costs without skimping on quality.

Once you’ve determined the scope of your project, you should create a comprehensive task list and assign due dates to each item. Use software to organize your list and keep track of your progress. If you are working with a contractor, schedule an in-person meeting to discuss the project location and plans and ask for a bid in writing.

During the bathroom remodel, it’s also a good opportunity to address any safety issues, such as rotted floorboards, lead paint or old plumbing that doesn’t meet today’s codes. Adding anti-slip flooring or grab bars to the shower and bathtub can be simple ways to improve safety. You should also consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and lighting during your remodel, which will help you reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

Be sure to check with your city about whether you need a permit for your bathroom renovation. Most projects that include expansions, renovations, additions or improvements will require a permit. Depending on the complexity of the work, you might be required to have multiple inspections. In some cases, city building inspectors will stop by for sign-offs on plumbing and electrical before the walls are opened up, and then again once the work is underway.

Permits and Approvals

Getting a new bathroom is exciting, and it’s easy to jump right into the fun parts like picking out vanity sinks and bathtubs. However, there is one important element that must not be overlooked: ensuring that the remodel is done with proper permits. In short, permits ensure that the work being done on your home meets building codes and safety standards. Failure to follow the rules can result in fines, delays or issues when selling or insuring your property.

Permit requirements can vary widely from city to city, and it is your responsibility as a homeowner to research the laws in your area and adhere to them. A general rule of thumb is that any remodeling project that involves changing the plumbing, electrical or structural components of your home will require a permit. This includes things like changing your tub and shower, moving your toilet or relocating the sink. However, cosmetic changes such as painting or floor resurfacing do not typically require a permit.

If you have any doubts about whether or not your project requires a permit, consult with a professional contractor. They will be able to walk you through the process of applying for the necessary permits and obtaining approval from local authorities.

Depending on the complexity of your remodel, you may also be required to submit architectural plans or other types of drawings. This is especially true if your project includes a significant change in the layout of your bathroom, including adding or moving walls and expanding its size. In addition, your plumbing and electrical systems may require new or updated wiring.

While permit processes can feel tedious and add to the overall cost of a remodel, they’re vital in protecting you and your property from legal issues down the road. It’s also a good idea to find out who is responsible for paying for the permits, as this will be different from one contractor to the next. At Sweeten, we match homeowners with trusted general contractors who can assist them with the permitting process. They can provide you with the best remodeling experience possible, while navigating your city’s requirements and ensuring that your project is up to code.

Contingency Planning

Bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in your home, and they’re also one of the most common rooms to undergo a renovation. Whether you’re sprucing up a powder room, optimizing the family bathroom or expanding your master bath, a bathroom remodel can significantly improve the comfort of your home and increase its value. However, like any home improvement project, smooth and stress-free bathroom remodeling isn’t always a given.

Before beginning your remodel, you should take some time to consider your goals and priorities. Do you need to accommodate an aging family member? Are you looking to increase storage or add more functionality? Determining your goals and priorities will help you make better decisions throughout the process.

You should also establish a budget to guide your remodel. This will help you avoid overspending and ensure that all of your needs are met. During this phase, it’s also helpful to identify any areas where you may need to cut back on certain elements to stay within your budget.

Lastly, it’s important to develop contingency plans for the duration of the project. Depending on the scope of your remodel, you might need to make alternative arrangements for a place to shower or use the toilet while construction is taking place. Similarly, you might need to have supplies on hand in case of any unforeseen issues that arise during the work.

When it comes to selecting materials for your bathroom remodel, be sure to look for items with the WaterSense label that meet EPA water efficiency standards. This will help you save money on your utility bills and reduce your water consumption without sacrificing quality or performance.

If you’re planning to finance your bathroom remodel, be sure to compare the costs of a personal loan with other borrowing options. A personal loan typically offers a lower interest rate and a longer repayment period than other borrowing options, which can help you manage the cost of your remodel.

Communication with Your Contractor

The best bathroom remodeling contractors are great communicators, planners, and problem solvers. They can take your ideas and make them work within the limitations of your budget and timeline. Some contracting companies even offer design and architecture services to streamline the process.

Before hiring someone, gather all of your ideas and information about the project. Sketches of the space, images of things you like, and clippings from magazines are all good reference points to help a contractor develop your vision into a realistic plan for execution. It’s also a good idea to write down what your goals for the remodel are, including specific aesthetic and design elements you want to incorporate.

It’s important to understand the difference between a bathroom remodel and renovation. A remodel includes substantial changes to the look and function of the room, such as replacing a tub with a shower. A renovation is less intensive and could simply include a paint job, new vanity, or replacement fixtures. If you’re planning on a major remodel, it’s a good idea to get estimates from multiple contractors for comparison purposes.

Ask each contractor to provide a written estimate for the job. This ensures that all of the details are clearly documented and minimizes human error when calculating. It also gives you a better understanding of the costs involved for your project, including materials and labor.

If you’re going to be supplying some or all of the materials for your project, let the contractor know so they can factor that into their quote. You should also discuss whether you’ll need to supply a toilet or water heater, and what the plan is for electrical and plumbing work.

When evaluating potential contractors, ask to see examples of their previous work. A quality contractor will be happy to share photos of projects they’ve worked on in the past, along with detailed project plans and sketches. You should also be sure they’re bonded, insured, and licensed as required by your area’s standards.