Author Archives: Kale Abbott

1. Why Replacing Your Windows Is So Important

   September 17, 2018 4:13 pm Leave a Comment

   

   Replacing your home windows can be costly, time consuming and slightly disruptive. That said, it can also be very worth it—financially, aesthetically and otherwise. If you’re looking for replacement windows in Chandler, AZ, there are nearby professionals who can point you in the right direction and make the process far less painful. There are, after all, any number of good reasons that you and your family should look into replacing your windows. It may be time. And those windows may be trying to let you know.  

   As Forbes put it in 2016, “Your house may not be able to talk to you, but nevertheless, it gives you signs when something’s not right. A home’s windows are particularly communicative.”  

   So what are some of the signs that something isn’t right?   

   The first is that your windows may be broken, warped or otherwise damaged. They may even seem to be working. But that doesn’t mean they’re working properly. Before you know it, you may have a larger problem on your hands, particularly if you don’t have those windows replaced in time. If you’ve had the same windows for more than 10 or 15 years, there’s certainly a chance that something is wrong with them. Modern standards generally assure that newly installed windows last at least 20 or 30 years. That may not be the case with all older windows. Additionally, damage caused by weather or other circumstances may necessitate that windows are replaced sooner than might otherwise be the case. You may wish to look into how old your current windows are, particularly if your house is older. That’s a good starting point when determining whether it’s time for a replacement.  

   Another reason to replace your windows is energy efficiency. Remember that your windows provided badly needed insulation from the elements, particularly when it’s hot or cold outside. This will affect the extent to which your air conditioner is working overtime. In turn, the quality of your windows and extent to which they’re up to modern standards will also impact your energy bill, sometimes drastically. So even if you aren’t too enthused about the cost of replacing your windows, it could wind up saving you some serious money over the next 10 years (or more).   

   Finally, newer windows can make your home far more attractive, both inside and out. If you’re looking to update your look in general (e.g. buying new furniture) or renovating your house in any capacity, it may be a good time for windows to come along for the ride. The right windows can also improve your home’s curb appeal, making it look better for those looking at your house from the outside. Such a replacement project may be particularly wise if you’re looking to sell your home or, at any rate, improve its long-term value in the event you eventually wish to do so.   

   If you require help regarding replacement windows in or near the Chandler, AZ, area, feel free to reach out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We look forward to handling your window needs in a prompt and professional fashion. You may visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066.  

2. Which Window Style Should You Choose?

   September 10, 2018 4:08 pm Leave a Comment

   

   Getting new windows shouldn’t be a headache. If you’re looking for replacement windows in the Tempe, AZ, area, rest assured that there are local options who can help you make the right decision. Part of that decision will have involved selecting the right style of window, and there are plenty of styles that might catch your eye. Before jumping into that decision, you may wish to review some of your options in advance. Generally speaking, there’s no wrong answer. Much depends on your personal preferences, the style of your home and what kind of aesthetic you have pursued by way of furniture and accessories.   

   So what kind of window style is right for you? The first step is to wrap your head around all the styles themselves. There are a few worth considering, including casement, awning, single-hung, double-hung, sliding, bay, bow, special shape, custom and fixed. Each of these styles can affect your aesthetic bottom line in important ways, letting light and air in differently and completing your home in a different fashion. Depending upon the kind of feel you’re pursuing, you may wish to take a closer look at these styles and think more about how they interact with your home environment and various items there amid.  

   So what are each of these styles all about?  

   Casement windows are a particularly contemporary style. They’re hinged at the side and crank out, often a perfect solution for kitchens and bathrooms. Awning windows are instead ideal for letting in light and air, naturally enhancing your home without relying exclusively upon air conditioning and artificial light. They’re hinged at the top and open outward.  

   Double-hung and single-hung windows provide a more classic feel thanks to the vertical that can be raised or lowered when you wish to have your windows opened. They’re often found in bedrooms or living areas, and they are quite common. Sliding windows are a bit more modern and allow you to open the window horizontally instead. The rest of the previously mentioned styles provide some additional, albeit less common, options for your home. Like those described in more detail, they all have their advantages when it comes to light and ventilation.  

   The best way to choose between some of these styles is to see them in action. Researching them online can be helpful, but seeing them in person may give you a better sense of how they work and handle. That may ultimately make a significant difference in a world not exclusively dictated by how they look. You also may wish to speak with a designer in order to better ascertain how they windows will fit with your home’s style. Some windows will more naturally accompany different styled homes, whether they’re ranch, colonial, Mediterranean, modern or otherwise. An expert eye may be very beneficial before making a final decision.  

   If you’re looking into replacement windows in or near Tempe, AZ, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We pride ourselves on handling your window needs in a thorough and professional fashion. You may visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066.  

3. What Type or Window Do You Choose When Needing Replacement

   September 3, 2018 3:41 pm Leave a Comment

   

   Whether they’re dated or less energy efficient than they should be, it may be time to do something about those windows. If you’re looking for replacement windows in the Mesa, AZ, area, there are several options for you to consider. Different types of windows present a range of advantages and disadvantages. A lot may change based on the kinds of frames you use. So it is important that you make your decision carefully, potentially reaching out to local experts in a bid to get your information right. Doing some research in the meantime won’t hurt, either. What kind of windows will you be choosing from?  

   Put most simply, there are only a handful of frame types that you will likely consider. Often that choice comes down to vinyl or fiberglass windows. The former is generally cheaper, but it isn’t perfect. Vinyl window frames are known to expand in contract due to temperatures, and this can certainly affect the extent to which they remain energy efficient. While both options generally require very little maintenance, fiberglass does tend to last longer, as well. That may or may not make a huge difference. If vinyl widows last 30 years, you may be pretty happy with that. Fiberglass may remain in good condition for more than 50 years, so durability may not be your primary concern.  

   Both vinyl and fiberglass are a certain kind of plastic. The major difference is that fiberglass is reinforced with very small glass fibers. This means that fiberglass windows tend to be much stronger than vinyl. Because of their strength, they can also support more glass by way of thinner frames. If your highest priority is strength and durability, you certainly may wish to spend the extra money and choose fiberglass. If you’re content with a somewhat more basic product, there’s certainly nothing wrong with vinyl in the grand scheme of things. One benefit associated with vinyl windows is that they tend to be more flexible, thereby allowing for easier (and cheaper) installation.   

   There are at least a couple of options besides vinyl and fiberglass. Those include extruded aluminum, rolled aluminum and wood (or wood clad with additional material in order to promote weather resistance). The difference between the two kinds of aluminum is fairly stark. Extruded aluminum is very solid and very sturdy. Rolled aluminum is not, itself something more akin to a soda can. All of these options are increasingly less common than vinyl and fiberglass. That said, some still prefer the look of wood or the durability of aluminum. Note that while wood may create a very classic aesthetic, it also tends to entail more expensive upkeep over time.  

   Making these kind of decisions isn’t easy. They don’t come down to pricing alone given the range of advantages and disadvantages associated with each one. If you’re looking for more information on replacement windows in the Mesa, AZ, area, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We look forward to handling your needs in a professional fashion. You may visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066.