Category: Blog

Home renovation has become a common undertaking in homes around the country. A recent survey revealed that two-thirds of homeowners and commercial property owners are planning on renovating their properties. Installing windows is one of the most common home renovation strategies. If you want your windows to last, it’s important to hire professional window installation companies. Here’s why.

High-Quality Installation

Installing windows is a technical process that requires specific skills and training. When you work with a professional window installing company, you’re investing in a team that has experience and training in installing windows. In many cases, you’ll find professionals who have been in the field for multiple years.

Generous Warranties

Installing windows is an expensive undertaking. You will have to buy windows and pay for technical labor as well. Therefore, professional window installation companies that offer a long term warranty are a plus. Working with established commercial window replacement companies allows you to access generous warranties. Some high-end window replacement and installation companies offer a lifetime warranty. As a homeowner, you will never have to worry about your windows again.

Energy Efficiency

When you’re looking for new windows, energy efficiency is essential. And when you work with professional window installation companies, you’re guaranteed a variety of options when it comes to selecting energy-efficient windows. Installing windows has never been such a plus for your energy bills.

Exceptional Customer Service

Installing windows is a personal affair, especially in your residential property. Your windows have a direct impact on the value of your property and how comfortable you are inside your home, after all. Professional window installation companies give you a chance to lead the window installation process by consulting you every step of the way. You will indicate the types of windows you want to be installed in your property, and the company will spend sufficient time in your property until you are satisfied.

Are you looking for a window installation company? Consider hiring a high-end window installation company that will offer you professional services at affordable rates. If you’re ready to get started replacing your windows, give us a call today.

Home window replacement is among the most overlooked home improvement projects. Most people don’t take the time to check the condition of their windows. But the truth is that knowing when to replace your windows is crucial to the health of your home. Here are a few signs that it’s time to reevaluate your windows.

Your Energy Bills Are On the Rise

Does the area next to your windows feel a lot cooler than the rest of your house during the cold season? Then it’s likely that drafts are getting into your house through your windows and cooling the warm air from your furnace. It’s no wonder that your furnace has to work extra hard to keep every part of the house warm. On average, 45% of your overall energy bill goes to heating alone. With leaky windows, the energy bill is bound to rise even higher. Once you realize that your windows are letting in cold air from the outside, take prompt action. The best solution is to opt for home window replacement as soon as possible. If your home has had the same windows for more than 20 years, then it’s time to plan for window replacement. Modern windows tend to be highly energy-efficient and can avert air transfer between your living space and the outside.

Operating Your Windows Is Difficult

As windows get older, they tend to develop problems that stop them from operating smoothly. Set aside time to walk around your home, opening, and closing every window. Do some windows require extra force or pressure to open or shut? Do they appear swollen when shut? Windows made of wood sometimes display these signs. If opening your home windows has suddenly become a chore, you may want to start making a list of the best window replacement companies in your area. That’s because you’re going to need their services sooner rather than later. Operating your windows should be an effortless affair, not a source of physical exercise.

Windows Are Damaged, Broken, or Decayed

While it’s okay to repair minor issues on your windows such as broken hardware, some damage is best addressed through replacement. If your windows appear warped, broken, or the frames are decaying, then a home window replacement project is the best choice. Windows that fog up or are drafty are telling you to take action. Decaying is commonly associated with wooden window frames that have been exposed to moisture. As soon as you notice any of these issues, know that unless you replace the windows, there are severe safety and comfort issues on the way.

There’s Too Much Noise Entering Your Home

Does the noise of children playing down the street disturb you even when your windows are shut? Can you hear a car coming from a half a mile away? If that’s the case, then it’s time to start thinking about residential window replacement. The good news is that modern windows come with impressive soundproofing features. The best windows in the market today can effectively absorb sound waves before they get into your living space, giving you the peace you desire.

The Windows Are an Eyesore

This is probably the most obvious sign that your current windows need replacing. If you can hardly stand the sight of your windows, then a home window replacement is overdue. Curb appeal is vital, especially if you’re considering selling your home soon. Modern, stylish, and energy-efficient windows are a top priority for people looking to buy a home.

If your current windows have been giving you problems, taking the appropriate action promptly is the best way to go. A home window replacement project can instantly enhance your home’s value, energy efficiency, and appearance besides making your living space a lot more comfortable.

Did you know that when windows are of high quality, adequately installed, and maintained, they can last 20 years or more, depending on the materials used? Every new building, whether residential or commercial, requires windows that are well fitted and of high quality.

Older buildings may also need replacement windows if worn out or need remodeling. If you have windows that are older than 15 years, you could be dealing with draftiness, and sooner or later you will need window replacement.

To install windows or replace existing ones, start by identifying window companies near you. Discuss with them your requirements and see if they have the type of replacement windows you want and their prices. The next step will be finding qualified window installers near you.

Replacing or installing windows is not cheap, with the average cost of replacing one window being between $300 and $700, and some high-end windows costing between $800 and $1,200.

Factors To Consider When Deciding On The Windows To Install

If you decide to replace existing windows or want to install windows for your upcoming construction, there are several factors that you should consider: frame, glass, and installation.

1. Frame: Frames are made from various materials. Each type of material has its pros and cons. Some of them are:
   • Vinyl. Vinyl is less expensive than other materials. When properly installed and constructed, vinyl windows are a practical choice for your budget and still offer excellent energy saving measures when paired with insulated glass and tight construction to reduce air leakage.
   • Wood. Windows made out of wooden frames provide the best insulation but require more maintenance when compared to other types. Because of their high potential to rot, they are not suitable for humid areas. They last longer if they are built and installed well and are practical as energy-saving windows.
   • Aluminum. They are ideal in rainy and humid climates but poor in terms of energy consumption. They are durable and suitable for hurricane-prone areas. Aluminum windows can be for residential or commercial windows.
   • Wood-Clad. These frames offer the best in all areas. They are made of Aluminum or Vinyl exterior and wooden interior. However, if not installed well, they are prone to moisture intrusion. They must be installed with waterproof rubber around the cladding and the sill pan to prevent water from seeping into the frame. Most people prefer these as replacement windows because of their versatility and long life.
   • Composite. They are made from plastic resins and scrap wood shavings and have the advantage of being maintenance free. Composite frames are eco-friendly, made from recycled plastics. They are affordable and ideal for residential windows.
   • Fiberglass. They are made from a mixture of polyester resins and glass fibers. They are more expensive than windows made from other materials but have various advantages. They are efficient in energy saving, are the most durable and most robust windows in the market, and can be repainted to your favorite color. Commercial window companies highly recommend fiberglass as replacement windows in commercial buildings that require enhanced security.
2. Glass: Apart from the frames, the inside a frame equally matters. You need to consider the ability of the glass to resist heat loss if the glass is UV protected, if you want a double or single pane glass, among other factors. Based on your budget and requirements, a window company should be able to advise on the best glass to put in the frame.
3. Installation: You can buy the most expensive window, but without proper installation, it will not perform adequately. Ensure the contractor you get to install windows is highly qualified and conversant with the type of windows you want installed. Some manufacturing companies have in-house installers or contractors they can recommend. Talk to them to avoid getting a shoddy job done for you.

Considering the cost implications of buying, replacing, or installing new windows, one must be careful to get value for their investment. It is also essential to understand the climatic conditions in your area before you decide on the type of window frame to purchase.

Windows are the soul to your house. They are essential for ventilation and natural lighting and are a great aesthetic addition to your home. However, they don’t last forever. But exactly how do you know when it’s time to call a window company Chicago and have your windows replaced? Today, we give you 5 signs you should use:

1. Check your bills: Have you noticed your energy bills going up? The problem could be your windows. Pick a cold day and stand next to your window. If you feel a small breeze coming from your window, your windows are likely causing high energy bills. Residential windows are especially notorious with this since most homes are at least twenty years old. Drafty windows let heat escape and increase your energy bills by 10 to 25% depending on how drafty they are.
   
   Another way to check drafty home windows is to hold a burning candle or incense stick next to the frame. Move it around to each corner of the window. If you notice flickering or smoke moving, you need to call commercial window installers to replace them. Faulty windows will cause your bills to rise and fall with the changing seasons.
2. Physcial damage: Sometimes, damaged windows may need repairs rather than complete replacement. If the damage is minor, window companies in Chicago will handle the problem for you. However, a broken, damaged, or warped window is better off replaced than repaired. The windows may still be operational, but they can develop additional problems down the line.
   
   To check if your windows are damaged, warped, or broken, check if they fog up or whether if are drafty. If you notice any of these problems, its time to call window companies in Chicago for a replacement.
3. Your home needs a face-lift: Your windows are the most prominent feature of a home. Old windows will make your home look worn-out and shabby no matter how great it is on the inside. If the color is fading away or the material is warping, you need home window replacement.
4. You live in a harsh weather zone: Do you live in hurricane impact zone or areas prone to harsh weather conditions? You are going to have to prepare for possible damage that may occur to your home. Checking your windows after every storm, big or small, to make sure they are still in perfect condition is vital. Also, if you live along the coast, your windows may be susceptible to damage caused by sea salt. Ask window companies in Chicago how to mitigate this and how to protect your windows during storms. A good idea is to use Ultrex fiberglass, which can withstand the humidity, coastal winds, and effects of sea salt.
5. Too much noise is coming in:
   When you are at home, you want peace and quiet to calm your thoughts and relax after work. When your windows let in noise from outside, they interfere with your relaxation time, and it’s time for them to go. To find out if your single-pane or double-pane windows need replacement, stand close to your window and wait for a passing car. If your windows transfer the vibration to the house, it’s time to replace them.

A qualified window company will help you get the best windows for your area and high-quality windows that will last you a long time — give Best Indows Inc. a call today.

Has your home or business become draftier lately? Or is your air conditioning feeling the burn of its constant use?

Outdated windows could be the culprit. Replacing windows can seem like a daunting task, but it’s undeniably an important one. Business and home windows are a valuable asset to any owner.

From aesthetics to energy efficiency, replacement windows can add significant value to your home or business. Here are some reasons that window replacement might provide more bang for your buck than you originally thought:

Save Money

Energy bill running high? Replacement windows could be the solution. Newer windows can cut down on your heating bill as older windows can increase your energy bill by 10% or more. There are plenty of window installers who can provide windows that can cut down on your heating bill.

High ROI

Nearly two-thirds of homeowners have plans for home renovation, so replacement windows could be a practical (and easy!) way to increase the value and aesthetic of your home. Instead of spending thousands on a new project, replacement windows on average costs a more moderate $300 to $700 per window. Though those other projects might seem appealing, replacement windows could be the fastest way to save money in the long run and increase your home value.

Outdated Look

Window companies often suggest that after 15 years it might be time to replace windows and perhaps even upgrade. However, energy efficiency isn’t the only reason for window replacement. Sagging or unsightly windows could be bringing down the overall value of your home.

Improve The Light

Beyond just home value and efficiency, homeowners may be looking out their windows more often than they think. Roughly 15% of wall space is often taken up by windows in a home. Since that precious wall space is going to be used by windows regardless, replacement windows may help that space be used to the greatest advantage.

If you’re experiencing any of these concerns, it may be time to replace windows in your home or business. Replacement windows in a home or business can keep money in your pocket whether you’re looking to save money on bills or seeking to sell your property in the future.

Roughly 30% of the average home’s heat is lost through poorly-insulated windows. And it’s not just a wintertime problem—during the summer, you’re losing energy as cool air escapes through the windows, making it necessary to run your air conditioner more.

With this being the case, the incentives to install windows and replace your old, inefficient ones are there. But so are a plethora of options for replacement windows. With so many choices, how it can be hard to know what to do.

If you’re ready to hire commercial window installers to install windows in your home, this guide can help you figure out what to do. Read on to learn what to look for in good windows.

What Makes Up a Good Window?

First of all, it’s good to know that practically any new window you find will be made with at least two panes of glass, which make up the glazing. Only windows made specifically for unheated buildings and areas, like garages and outbuildings, are likely to have just one pane of glass.

Two-pane glass, or insulated glass, has proven to be very helpful over the last few decades since it came into common use. By sandwiching the air between two separate, sealed panes, the insulative value of the glazing is increased several times over.

More recently, manufacturers have started sealing dense, insulating gases into windows between their panes, such as krypton and argon. This makes windows even more insulating than those that have plain air sealed inside them.

While on the assembly line, window glass is sometimes coated with films of a nearly invisible substance, such as Low-e metallic oxides, which can provide additional insulating properties—such as solar heat reduction or improved heat retention.

The sash holding the glazing also plays an important role in a window’s efficiency. Materials like fiberglass, wood, and vinyl (either hollow or insulated) provide very low heat conductance, thus reducing the transfer of temperatures from one side of the window to the other.

Improvements like these make replacement windows and new ones more energy-efficient than ever. And the improvements aren’t just measurable using special instruments and thermometers—just by sitting or standing next to a window, you can feel the difference.

Being next to a single-pane window can give you a noticeable chill, even if the house is technically quite warm. This is because your own body heat is radiating out through the window—the heat your body is generating literally gets sapped out of you! However, with energy-efficient glazing, the inner pane of glass is kept warmer—and this actually reflects your own heat back to you.

In addition to the above technical factors, another factor to look at when you’re ready to buy and install windows is the rating given to windows you’re considering.

The National Fenestration Rating Council rates certain manufacturer’s windows, taking into account things like air leakage, U-factor (which represents a window’s rate of heat loss), solar-heat-gain coefficient (the most heat gain possible from sunlight shining through that window), and visual transmittance (how much light the window allows in).

Labels like these, placed on new window packaging by the Council, can let you know what to expect from the window once you have it in your home. Besides telling you which windows are the most energy-efficient for the money, this information also helps you choose certain windows based on where in the house you need them. Different windows are designed to deal with different levels of heat and sunlight. Selecting each window will depend on where around your home sunlight is going to be at different times of the day.

Install Windows Right

Window installation is complicated. For good windows to provide the maximum energy efficiency, they have to be installed correctly. It won’t matter that your window is air-tight if there are cracks where your walls and windows meet.

Anyone who has lived in a very old house has seen how strong winds outside can cause the curtains to move because of leaky windows. This is an experience you don’t want to see after buying and installing new, state-of-the-art windows in your home.

Because of this, it’s very important that you don’t hire the first local contractor you find, unless they have verifiable experience with happy customers and the appropriate certification.

Windows are an important part of any building. Case in point, windows older than 15 years are likely to cause draftiness, creating huge energy bills. This reason is why it’s important to ensure that when construction is being undertaken, or even when replacement windows are being installed, you get the services of one of the best window companies. That way, you can have the peace of mind that quality work will be done and you will get the best.

Here are a few of the ways that you can find the best window companies so that you can rest easy.

Professionalism

One of the factors that would qualify a company into the list of the best window companies would be how their staff handles themselves when dealing with both residential and commercial clients as well as the quality of their workmanship. Professionalism is very important as it will impact confidence on you as a client that what you require done is well understood, and the company at hand has the capacity to handle it and even exceed the expectations. The window installation company should also be in a position to provide a guarantee on their workmanship and any product that they offer.

Local company

When dealing with the installation of windows, it is a good idea to work with a local company, because most companies tend to be attached to the local areas and as a result understand better the challenges specific to that area. As a result, the quality of work in such circumstances is much higher with a local company. Also, it is also much easier to get in touch with them should there be a need to make follow up on the job done.

Commitment to energy efficiency

Installation of windows or even the process of replacement does not come cheap. As a result, it is important to get value for the cash spent. One of the areas that home and business owners stand to gain big with a decent window installation job is the savings by having the windows being energy efficient. If done right and with energy efficient windows, there should be lowered costs of heating as well as cooling the building and this is a big plus. Therefore, when selecting among the best window companies, it is good to look for the one committed to being energy efficient.

The magnitude of the project

Various replacement windows projects vary on the basis of the scope of work. When looking for the best window companies to work with, it is important to understand the scope of your project to understand if the preferred company has the capacity to undertake the project. In most of the cases and where possible, it is a good idea to seek confirmation of the times the company has handled such projects as this is an important portfolio to indicate their experience. Whenever possible and before placing a commitment with a company it is recommended that you go through the magnitude of the project with a representative to further affirm of their capacity to handle it especially when it comes to commercial buildings.

Cost

With every project, the final cost is an item of importance and one that forms the basis for commencing and going forward with a project. With most of the windows companies, a free quotation will be done based on your requirement, and this is an ideal place to look at when looking for comparison on the best window companies based on their price and other factors such as project duration and the guarantee provided. On cost vinyl siding offer lower cost since it is 11% lower than cider and 26% lower than aluminum thus a great way to go.

It’s quite awarding to have to work with a great partner on any project especially when you feel that all is under control. As a result, taking time during the selection process to ensure that you get the right fit is an important step. With the above indicators, it should now be easier to select the best company to work with.

There will eventually come a time in your home’s life when it’s time to replace the windows. Fortunately, you’re not alone. In fact, replacing windows is a pretty common occurrence, especially as buildings age. In this post, we will look at some of the most common reasons homeowners replace their windows.

Refreshing Your Home’s Look

Whether your home is old and the windows are falling apart or you just don’t like the way they look, freshening up your home’s appearance is a perfectly good reason for installing windows to replace your old ones. Installing replacement windows will not only give your home a more modern feel, it will allow you to choose exactly how you want them to look.

Investing in Energy Efficiency

When your windows are older, they may not be as energy efficient as you think. Older windows have a tendency to be drafty and let out that nice cool air your air conditioning pumps out. Not only does this make your home hotter, it makes your air conditioner work harder than it needs to. Replacing your windows could help you kiss those high energy bills goodbye!

Remodeling Your Home

If you decide to remodel your home, windows may be a big part of that decision. Your windows may be old, or they simply might not match the vision you have for your house. Want a big bay window to replace something you currently have? A remodel is the perfect time to perfect your home inside and out.

Securing Your Property

Whether you like it or not, windows are a part of your property security. If you have older windows that don’t quite lock right, they pose a big security risk to you and your family. Installing windows with more sophisticated and effective locking mechanisms can help increase the security of your home.

Correcting Severe Damage

Buildings are exposed to the elements every day. They’re designed to protect us from them, after all! But every now and again, your windows may sustain some more severe damage. Say a hailstorm hits and your windows are shattered, or something goes wrong with one of the frames. Events like these provide an excellent reason to replace your old windows with new ones.

Whether it’s replacing your vinyl siding — which costs 11% less than cedar siding — or getting new windows, make sure you’re taking care of your home. It protects you and your family, which means it’s your responsibility to assess how best to help it do just that for a long time to come.

Have you been experiencing higher than average energy bills? Maybe there’s a draft that you’ve never been able to locate. If either of these statements is true you may be in the market for new windows, and not even know it! Commercial window installers are experts at being able to determine how to best improve energy efficiency should you ever need to replace business windows. There is any number of reasons which give merit to replacing the windows in a property. To replace business windows is probably more of an investment than home window replacement, however, the saving you see will make it worthwhile.

Energy efficient windows alone are probably not a good enough reason to go for a full blown window replacement or to replace business windows. To replace windows is an investment of finances and time in a property. Windows that are of quality and properly maintained can last 20 years OR LONGER depending upon construction materials.

Let Some Light In, But Keep The Cold Out

Windows are an access point into and out of any property. Drafty windows, for example, can increase an energy bill between 10 and 25 percent depending upon the amount of air allowed to escape. Dual-paned windows are around twice as effective at heat retention or air conditioning compared to single-paned windows.

Although investing in new windows can be a daunting expense, new windows might be a beneficial way to invest in a business property. Keeping the cold out or the warmth in is an important window aspect. Half of Americans that use natural gas for heating purposes report an average cost of $649; the Department of Energy also states that 45 percent of an energy bill is for heating. In general, 15 percent of an energy bill can be saved through window replacement for a 2,600 square foot space. Removing older double-paned windows switching to energy-efficient windows with low-E coatings account for this percentage according to the Efficient Windows Collaborative.

Businesses need to keep an eye on their finances. Every penny spent on needs to be seriously considered. However, choosing to replace business windows with a more energy efficient option can actually save money in the long run. As your business grows you may be looking for ways to invest back into your company. Consider creating a more energy efficient space in order to save money and save resources.

Whether you’re in the market for new windows or you’re simply interested in testing the windows you already have, it’s important to have a bit of know-how when it comes to energy efficiency. What exactly makes a window more energy efficient? When you’re paying $300 to $700 per window installed, it’s good information to have. Keep reading to learn exactly what makes your windows energy efficient.

Glass

While glass alone won’t make a window energy efficient, the way glass is used in your windows can help a lot. For example, a single glass pane in a wooden window frame won’t do much at all to retain heat. Double- and triple-paned windows, on the other hand, have a much higher heat retention rate. But remember: the number of glass panes doesn’t necessarily determine energy efficiency. For the best results in your area, it’s best to consult the company that installed your windows.

Spacers

Nearly all energy efficient windows have this feature in common. Warm spacers are designed specifically to reduce conductivity. They are what separate the glass panes within your windows, and are the most vulnerable places for heat loss during the colder months. Warm edge spacers are used primarily to prevent the loss of heat or cool air from your home. If you feel air leakage coming from a window that’s supposed to be energy-efficient, it’s likely there’s a glass or spacer issue within.

Glazing

Certain types of energy efficient windows have what is called a glaze over the glass. This glaze, which is typically clear and can’t be seen with a naked eye, can actually help your windows be more energy efficient. If you want, you can also opt for tinted glazes. Ultimately, glazes help prevent sunlight from heating up your home and can prevent the transference of cold air, as well.

Determining whether windows are energy efficient or not is really a matter of knowledge. And now that you know these handy facts about your residential windows, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about them.