Making a Decision About Window Replacement

Your home is likely a work in progress. Most of us find projects here and there that need our attention sooner rather than later. However perfect that home might have seemed when you moved in, chances are you will have found something that needs some work—that wallpaper in the guest bathroom, kitchen tile or increasingly outdated carpet in the living room. Remember that your windows installed matter, too. If you are looking into window replacement in or near Scottsdale, AZ, note that there are local professionals prepared to walk you through the process and discuss your various options. And make no mistake. There are plenty of options, and good ones, too.  

The first thing to do is assess your needs with respect to your current windows. How old are those windows? If they are at least 15 to 20 years old, it is at least time to begin thinking about new windows. You may even wish to have them inspected. At minimum, you should look to see whether or not your windows are still functioning properly (whether they open and shut without getting stuck, for example). You may also wish to check and see if the frames are warping or are otherwise damaged. The elements can do a lot of things to those windows, and you should make sure that they haven’t reached the end of their lifespan. Note that particularly adverse weather conditions can have an effect on your windows, as well. There are any number of signs that it may be time for those old windows to go. If your glass is fogging up, there is a good chance there is a problem. If certain rooms are beginning to let in drafts, your windows may be responsible. And if your energy bills appear to have increased over the last couple of years, old windows may indeed be to blame.   

You may also wish to discuss your windows with family, perhaps even a designer. Even if there is nothing that is technically wrong with your windows, you may simply wish to update the look and feel thereof. If there is a consensus that a new look is in order, replacing your windows might make sense. Making the move may be especially wise if you are otherwise updating your interior or exterior. Families often replace their windows when they plan on installing new siding or a new roof. It makes sense to bring windows along for the ride.  

Finally, think about the kind of investment you are willing to make. Wood windows are often fairly expensive, but they provide a very classic look that certainly fits many homes. Fiberglass windows are more expensive than their vinyl cousins, but they are very strong and last for a very long period of time. These are the kinds of things you will have to think about before making a final decision.  

If you are seriously thinking about replacing your windows and want to know more about window replacement process in the Scottsdale, AZ, area, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We have a proud history of serving our customers in a friendly and professional fashion. We look forward to meeting your window needs, as well. You can visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

Are New Windows Only About Energy Efficiency?

So you have probably heard (and correctly) that new windows can do wonders for your energy bills. That is true. There is no doubt that replacing your windows can seriously impact your home’s energy efficiency and save you some money in time. But that isn’t the only reason to think about new windows. If you are looking into window replacement in or near Tempe, AZ, there are in fact a number of good reasons to think about making the investment. New windows may not sound like the most exciting way to spend some money, but they can have a real effect on your daily life—not just those energy bills.  

You may not even notice the extent to which your windows change your life on a day-to-day basis. Indeed, windows can provide a real sense of indoor-outdoor living, letting nature into your home in a variety of different lays. They provide natural light, brightening up rooms in your home that could otherwise seem dark and uninviting. They let in natural air, as well, potentially keeping your home cool and fresh whenever the weather permits. Windows can also make rooms in your home seem larger. Whereas walls close off one’s view of the outside and confine you accordingly, windows create the impression of a more spacious area. That can mean a great deal when there is little or no option to actually increase your square footage by way of renovation.   

If older windows aren’t working properly (e.g. getting stuck when you open or close them), that may be an important reminder that it is time to think about replacing them. If you are to fully advantage from windows that let in natural air, it is of course important that they function properly in the first place. You may also wish to think about installing larger windows in a bid to assure a brighter and more welcoming environment. Many older homes may have been built with very different priorities in mind, sacrificing that light for additional wall space. That may not be the best thing for your family. And it may not be the best thing for your guests, either.  

Remember that new windows can also change the look of your home in important ways. Whether you look into vinyl, fiberglass, wood or aluminum frames, it is certainly possible to change your home’s aesthetic by simply replacing your windows. In addition to making your home a nicer place to live, this can also increase the value of your home. It can even affect its curb appeal and make it appear like a higher-value and more attractive property to potential homebuyers in the event you may consider selling your home in the future. Put simply, the energy efficiency is nice. But it is hardly the entire story.  

If you are seriously considering window replacement in the Tempe, AZ, area, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We look forward to working with you and meeting your window needs in a friendly and professional fashion, and we have a long history of doing just that. You can visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205, or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

Are Fiberglass Windows Really Worth It?

So you are looking into new windows, but you may have some questions. There is nothing wrong with that. The prospect of replacing your windows may seem daunting and overwhelming. There are a lot of options plenty of reasons to prefer any given one of them. If you are seriously considering window replacement in or near Mesa, AZ, rest assured there are professionals in your area who can walk you through those options and make the process significantly easier. In the meantime, you may begin doing some research of your own. If so, you are likely to come across the possibility of fiberglass windows, and for good reason. They have increasingly become one of the more popular options on the market, and they are known for their reliability.  

But, alas, they do tend to be a bit more expensive—sometimes 30 percent more expensive—than their vinyl cousins, themselves extremely common. So it is only natural to wonder if the investment is worthwhile. You will find yourself spending a good chunk of change on new windows either way. The big question is whether or not spending a bit more will be worth it to you in the long run.   

One of the primary attractions when it comes to fiberglass windows is that they are very strong and indeed built to last. As a Lee Wallender of The Spruce explains, “For fiberglass windows, polyester resins are activated by a catalyst and then pultruded, or pulled, through a heated die. Strands of glass or glass mats are impregnated with resins. The finished product is called a lineal and it is machinable and can be shaped. Fiberglass has long been used to create ultra-strong, lightweight materials for skis, surfboards, and canoes.”  

And it creates extremely durable windows, too. Because of its strength, it is less likely than its vinyl alternative to warp over time. So while there may be some additional expense in the near term, that cost may pay for itself over time. Unlike wood windows, fiberglass windows require very little maintenance or upkeep. They are indeed designed to last for a very long time and require very little attention in the process. Note that as a visual matter fiberglass windows can be painted to your preference. By contrast, vinyl frames come in a variety of colors but are not painted. Some fiberglass windows look very much like wood, as well—if that’s what you are into.  

So are fiberglass windows worth it? If you are interested in windows that can last even longer than the 20 to 30 years you will get out of vinyl windows, then the answer certain may be, “yes.” There are rarely right or wrong answers in this kind of business, though. Much depends on what is right for you.  

If you are considering window replacement in the Mesa, AZ, area, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We have a long history of supporting our customers with service that is both friendly and professional. We look forward to meeting your window needs. You may visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066.

Signs Your Home Needs New Windows

Thinking about new windows? Perhaps you aren’t sure if it is the right time or if replacing your windows is actually necessary. There is no reason to live in mystery. If you think you may be interested in replacement windows in or near Sun Lakes, AZ, rest assured there are nearby professionals who can speak to whether or not you in fact need new windows. But there are other ways to make that decision, as well. Indeed, there may be signs that your windows are ready for a replacement. While that may not be everyone’s idea of a good time, new windows may certainly be a wise investment.  

But is it an essential investment? That depends on a few things, including how old your current windows are. If you have had your windows for 15 to 20 years, it is probably time to at least begin thinking about new windows. Old windows can become a problem for your energy bill, and they might not look so great, either. Many vinyl windows have warranties that range from 20 to 25 years. Some windows, like fiberglass, can last even longer. But regardless of age, some windows may not last the duration of their expected lifespan, particularly if they have been subject to particularly adverse weather conditions. So how might you know if you need new windows?  

The first thing to look for are any kinds of cracks or damage. Some frames may even become warped over the course of time. These kinds of problems can make your home less energy efficient and begin affecting those bills. Another sign that you may need new windows is the possibility of fogged glass, likely a sign that a small opening is allowing air to become trapped between panes. If you have wood windows, you may also wish to check them on the exterior of your home. Should the windowsill feel at all soft, this may be due to excess exposure to moisture. Again, this may be a sign that you should replace your windows.  

You should also pay attention to whether or not your windows are functioning properly. If they aren’t opening or closing properly, this means there may be something wrong. This kind of malfunction is very typical of older windows and means it may be time to move on. If your windows are getting stuck, there is a good chance other things are wrong with them, as well (or that other problems may emerge in the near future).   

Finally, take note of how your home feels and whether or not your energy bills appear to be increasing. If certain rooms seem more drafty, your windows may be letting in air. That is never a good thing.  

If you are considering replacement windows in the Sun Lakes, AZ, area, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We are serious about meeting your window needs and helping you find the right solution in a friendly and professional fashion. We look forward to working with you in the event new windows become a necessity. Feel free to visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066.

How New Windows Can Change the Look of Your Home

Perhaps you’re looking to undertake a significant renovation project. Perhaps you’d just like to update old windows that seem to be holding the rest of your home back a bit. Either way, it might be time for new windows. If you’re looking for replacement windows in or near Fountain Hills, AZ, there are plenty of options that will fit your budget and preferences alike. And while there are any number of practical benefits associated with replacing your windows (e.g. energy efficiency), there are also aesthetic ones. New windows can radically alter the look and feel of your home. How do they work such magic?  

First, new windows can let light into your home in any number of different ways. Depending on the window itself, you can transform a dimly lit family room into a brighter and seemingly larger place to entertain friends and family. Replacing your windows with newer models may also encourage you to keep them open more often, thereby letting natural air into your home and creating an altogether different kind of atmosphere. Indeed, you may even have difficulty opening old windows if they’re damaged or broken. That shouldn’t happen. Windows can become integral to your way of life and make it more possible to let the outside in.   

Second, however, windows have an aesthetic all their own. Whether your interested in a more classic look with wooden frames and single-hung or double-hung windows, you can certainly assure your home a more traditional and established vibe. Alternatively, attempting to update your home with a more modern look may encourage the use of something like horizontal sliding windows instead. For some styles, the spacious allure of bay windows can make a lot of sense, too. The point is that you have options. And those options can facilitate the kind of image you’re trying to project.   

Finally, windows provide your home with a view. It is worth making sure that such a view isn’t corrupted by old windows that can themselves become something of a distraction. Whether you live in a neighborhood, more urban setting or by a truly one-of-a-kind view, windows can be the difference between a closed-off environment and the kind of openness many homeowners now seek. While new windows may represent a potentially significant financial investment, it is certainly worth thinking about the range of advantages they can create. What would new windows mean to your home?  

You should also think about the extent to which French doors or sliders can change the way you interact with the outdoors. In addition to creating a view, they also make your yard or garden more accessible, a perfect solution for those who enjoy entertaining others.   

If you’re interested in replacement windows in the Fountain Hills, AZ, area, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We have a proud history of serving our customers professionally and with great care. We look forward to working with you, too. Please feel free to visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

Why You Should Get New Windows Before Selling Your Home

Okay, so maybe you haven’t been persuaded to get install new windows for some period of time. Perhaps the allure of selling your home will change your mind. In the event you are looking into replacement windows in or near Phoenix, AZ, note that you have some options. Indeed, when it comes to frames and window styles alike, there are a wide range of possibilities that might put your home over the top by the time it hits the market. But just because there’s a way, it does not mean there is also a will. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to replace your windows, here are some reasons to give it some serious thought.  

First of all, many home buyers can tell the difference. This is particularly true if you have older wooden frames that haven’t been updated in some time. Unless they’re particularly charming, you may wish to think about trying some new frames on for size. Those new windows could be vinyl, fiberglass, wood, rolled aluminum or extruded aluminum. They all have their advantages, and it’s worth looking into what will fit your home the best. If your windows look outdated, you should certainly consider replacement whether looking into a broader renovation project or not.  

Even if your potential buyers can’t tell the difference aesthetically, a real estate agent can certainly mention new windows. That has some appeal. In addition to knowing that those windows may last another 30 to 50 years depending upon the materials used, potential buyers will also rest assured that their home will be more energy efficient than might have otherwise been the case. The knowledge that they’ll save on energy bills may make your home a far more attractive option. Even older homes can go quickly on the market when they’ve been properly maintained. Replacing your windows may be very key to that kind of maintenance. Some home buyers may even associate new windows with a safer home, an important factor for many.  

Note that new windows can radically change the look and feel of your home. There are more than a dozen prominent styles, and choosing between them can have a significant impact on the general aesthetic with which you’re working. Even if potential home buyers don’t notice your windows very directly, those windows can contribute to a more general sense of décor that grabs their attention. Pursuing an updated and fresh look can be extremely important in today’s marketplace, and windows shouldn’t be left out of the equation.   

Even if you aren’t planning on selling your home right away, remember that it’s important to preserve the value thereof. Whether it’s windows or another important project, don’t forget to keep your home in the best possible condition. When it does come time to sell, you will be glad that you did.  

If you are looking for replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We pride ourselves on treating our customers’ needs with respect and handling them in a professional fashion. You can visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

What to Know About Fiberglass Windows

The quest for new windows can include any number of options. Those options may vary according to price and other considerations, as well. If you’re looking for replacement windows in the Queen Creek, AZ, area, rest very assured that there are local professionals who can walk you through some of these options and better inform you when it comes thereto. One of those options is fiberglass, and there is plenty to learn about fiberglass windows before making a final decision. So what should you know about fiberglass windows, and why should you consider them when planning your window replacement?  

Whether replacing windows that are broken or damaged or simply upgrading older windows, fiberglass window frames are very likely to make the final cut among your options. They have certainly become one of the most common options and for good reason. First, they’re particularly durable. Though made of plastic (like vinyl windows), fiberglass windows include tiny fibers of glass that strengthen that plastic. That means that whereas vinyl windows can last up to 30 years without needing replacement, fiberglass windows may last at least 50 years in a best-case scenario. That’s a long time. Is durability reason enough to prefer fiberglass windows? Maybe not. But if you plan on remaining in your home for a particularly long time, it is worth considering.  

Fiberglass windows are also particularly strong, which means they are much less likely to warp over time. They’re also more resistant than vinyl windows when it comes to expanding or contracting due to temperature. This assures you added benefit when it comes to energy efficiency. That kind of benefit may not make a huge difference when it comes to the look and feel of the windows, but it can certainly make a difference to your pocket book—particularly over the course of time. And that’s a good thing in light of the every extent to which fiberglass windows are generally more expensive than their vinyl cousins.  

Indeed, price may be something of a deterrent when it comes to fiberglass windows. You should nevertheless consider energy savings when making a decision. They may cost more in the short-term, but they can certainly pay for themselves over the course of time.  

Remember, getting new windows also adds value to your home. That kind of equity can become more useful in the event you someday plan to sell your home. Letting prospective buyers know that you recently installed fiberglass windows could be a significant selling point. And while fiberglass windows may not add the same look as wooden frames, they generally require less maintenance—another key selling point for some.  

If you’re in the market for replacement windows in or near Queen Creek, AZ, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We have a long and proud tradition of serving our customers in a highly professional fashion. We are prompt and happy to provide support when it comes to making difficult decisions and weighing your various options. Please feel free to visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

Everything You Should Know About Vinyl Windows

Not all windows are made equally. That’s particularly true when it comes to their frames. If you’re looking into replacement windows in or near the Gilbert, AZ, area, rest assured there are local professionals prepared to guide you and provide support as you make decisions. While this shouldn’t be a difficult process, some may certainly wish to consider their options. One of those options is a vinyl window. What makes vinyl windows different, and why should you consider them when replacing your windows?  

Vinyl windows are incredibly common, and there’s good reason for that. Given their performance, they tend to be more affordable than many alternatives. Vinyl is a kind of strong plastic that generally does a pretty good job of protecting homes from the elements. While it is susceptible to expanding and contracting based upon heat or cooling, that flexibility also makes vinyl windows very easy to install or remove. That also reduces costs when it comes to installation, which very well may be attractive to your budgetary bottom line.   

Vinyl windows are often energy efficient, as well. Designed with honey-comb chambers that trap air, they’re particularly good as insulating your home from hot or cold air. That can be a huge bonus when it comes time to pay those energy bills. By preventing cool or warm air from trading places with outdoor elements, your home can be cooled or heated more efficiently. That saves you money.   

Vinyl windows can also be far less expensive than wooden windows. While wooden windows may be more traditional in appearance, vinyl windows tend to achieve a fairly similar effect at a much-reduced cost. They also tend to require less maintenance and painting than wooden windows, which can save you monetarily, as well. As a financial matter, vinyl windows may be your best friend. They’re also less expensive than their very similar fiberglass alternative. So, if it is important for you to install new windows quickly and at limited cost, vinyl windows likely rank as one of your best choices.  

That said, they aren’t perfect. While they may last as many as 30 years, they are quite as durable as their fiberglass cousins. Fiberglass windows can last in excess of 50 years. How much that kind of thing matters to you may depend. Not everyone cares about their windows lasting forever, and that’s okay. Thirty years is still a pretty long time. Fiberglass windows are also stronger than vinyl windows, and that may be important to you, as well—particularly in a world where your home may be subject to poor weather conditions on a somewhat frequent basis.  

Is there a right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing vinyl windows? Not really. Much depends on what best suits you and your family.   

If you’re interested in replacement windows in Gilbert, AZ, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We pride ourselves on addressing your windows-related needs in a prompt and professional fashion, and we look forward to working with you. You may visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

Why It Is Probably Time to Upgrade Your Windows

Nothing wrong with the windows in your home? That’s fine. It doesn’t mean it isn’t time to have them upgraded. If you’re looking for replacement windows in or near the Scottsdale, AZ, area, know that there are local professionals prepared to support your decision and walk you through the process. They can also provide guidance when it comes to upgrading your windows in particular, explaining the various advantages associated with the available options (and there are indeed plenty of available options). So why bother upgrading your windows in the event there’s nothing particularly wrong with them?   

In general, the decision to upgrade windows has a lot to do with your financial bottom line. One way or another, it is an investment that should pay off sooner or later. For many, the decision simply comes down to adding value to your home. Newer windows will last longer and save future buyers from worrying there about. Real estate agents are generally apprised when a home has relatively new windows, and that can certainly help your estimate. Whether you’re planning on selling your home any time soon or not, it is never a bad idea to add value thereto.   

New windows can produce that value in a number of respects, ranging from their aesthetic feel to very practical concerns, as well. With respect to the look and feel new windows may provide, note that they may be essential to any remotely major renovation that changes your home’s general style. Modernizing is never a bad idea. Just don’t forget your windows in the process. They can add a great deal to the interior, both with respect to their look and the extent to which certain kinds of windows may be better at allowing in natural light and air. New windows can also enhance a home’s curb appeal, assuring that it looks better from the street and draws potential buyers in. Even if you aren’t looking to add value to your home financially, you may simply wish to update its look and feel for the sake of your own enjoyment (or to feel more comfortable and inclined to entertain for friends and family).  

As for the practical side of things, don’t forget that newer windows may be far better at insulating your home from the outdoor elements, particularly heat and cooling that may tax your air conditioning (and impact your energy bill in significant ways). You may not have even noticed the extent to which those energy bills have gotten a bit out of control. It’s something of a hidden cost that can easily fly under the radar. Upgrading your windows to meet modern standards may wind up saving you money in time.  

If you’re looking for replacement windows in Scottsdale, AZ, consider reaching out to Cougar Windows & Doors. We have a long history of satisfying our customers and handling their window needs in an especially efficient fashion. We can make any project involving your windows much easier. You can visit us at 3820 E Main St Ste 1 Mesa, AZ 85205 or place a phone call to (480) 699-9066. 

Why Replacing Your Windows Is So Important

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.