Reading Energy-Efficient Window Labels: A Quick How-To

With the weather beginning to heat up, energy-efficient windows are going to be essential to keeping your home cool.

But how do you know which windows are best?

The National Fenestration Rating Council includes labels on windows to show each window’s performance. These labels indicate several performance factors, but without the proper background, they can sometimes be difficult to read. Here’s a quick summary of the label so you know what to look for in your replacement windows this summer.

Energy Ratings – 

• U-Factor. This number indicates how well the window is insulated. The lower the number, the better insulated (and more energy-efficient!). Anything under .30 is considered to be energy-efficient, but at Aspen, we go above and beyond. Our replacement windows have a .24 rating – so we’re better than just being energy-efficient!
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). SHGC indicates how much solar heat is being let in by the replacement window. The lower the number, the less heat being let into your home.

Other Ratings –

• Visible Transmittance. This number is an indicator of how much light is being let into your home by the replacement window. The higher the number, the more light being allowed into your home.
• Air Leakage. Like our last rating, air leakage describes exactly that; air leakage shows the amount of air passing through the window. Remember – this number is not always shown on a NFRC label.
• Condensation Resistance. This number indicates the resistance of your window to condensation buildup. In this particular case, the higher the number, the more resistant it is to condensation buildup. However, like air leakage, this number is not always shown.

If you’re interested in learning more about our replacement windows, view pictures of our past window projects. You can also click for a free estimate from our team!

Is your siding ready for summer?

At Aspen Home Improvements, we focus a lot on windows and doors.

But did you know that we specialize in siding, too?

Siding is essential to the protection of your home. Siding helps protect your home from weather, moisture, pests, and everything in between. Siding also helps keep your home looking good while adding in a splash of personality.

So how do you know when it’s time for a replacement? Here are a few ways to tell if it’s time to replace one of the most important parts of your home – 

• Exterior Damage. Is your siding warped, rotting, cracked, etc.? If so, these are obvious signs it’s time to replace your siding.
• High heating and cooling bills. Good siding goes hand-in-hand with keeping your home properly insulated. If your energy bills are higher than normal, it could be a sign that your siding is not keeping your home properly insulated.
• Peeling paint/wallpaper. This could be a sign moisture is getting into your home, which could be caused by siding. Peeling paint or sagging wallpaper might not sound bad, but excess moisture in your home could cause a lot of damage to your interior walls.

Remember – these are just a few signs and there are many more potential indicators of siding that needs replaced. If you feel it’s time to replace your siding, contact our experts to discuss your options and request a free estimate for your home!

Aspen at the Ride In Bike Show

Aspen Home Improvement fans – where were you this weekend?

This Saturday, we were at the 2^nd Annual Ride In Bike Show hosted by the American Legion Riders Post 537 in Morgantown, Pa.

The main draw of the event were – of course – the riders and their bikes. Those in attendance entered their bikes to compete for several awards being given out across several different categories, including American Sport, Commander’s Choice, and the Valor Clinic Best in Show.

Guests also enjoyed live music, food, and several auctions held throughout the day.

Although the bikes were certainly a hit, the best part of the event was the $600 raised for the Valor Clinic Foundation, a group dedicated to supporting Veterans. A portion of this came from a raffle, while the rest came from the support of other local businesses in the area.

A huge thank you to everyone who came out, and an even bigger thank you to the American Legion Riders Local 537 for putting everything together and allowing us to attend!

Check out our Facebook and Twitter pages to stay updated on the upcoming shows and events we’ll be attending! We hope to see you at the next event!

Summer is here! Replacing your doors and windows

Are you looking to save on your energy bills?

With summer weather right around the corner, it's essential to be energy-efficient to save on your home's cooling costs.

So what can you do? A simple replacement of your windows and doors could help you save more in the long run. According to Energy Star, replacing single-pane windows could save you up to $465 a year on your energy bills - a worthy investment for any homeowner.

Here are some basic tips to help you know when it's time to replace your doors or windows -

1. Does it look damaged? If the surrounding area looks damaged - peeling/flaking paint, water stains, etc. - it could be time to replace your door/window. These could be signs your windows or doors are allowing too much moisture to pass through - a true sign your windows or doors need replaced.

2. Is your door/window difficult to open? Maybe your door/window is difficult to open, or perhaps it's difficult to keep open. Both could be signs you need a replacement. Difficult-to-open or stay-open doors and windows allow air to easily pass through, costing you on your energy bills each month.

3. Is your carpet or furniture looking faded? This could be another sign your windows need replaced. If your carpet or furniture look faded, it could mean your windows are allowing too much ultraviolet rays into your home. Switching to more energy-efficient windows could help you save your carpet or furniture - and your energy bills, too.

For more information about replacing your doors or windows, visit our website or contact us with your questions!

What sets Aspen Home Improvements apart from the rest? Our Lifetime Warranty!

When it comes to selecting the right home improvement business to work with can become quite a daunting process for many. Am I choosing the right company? Am I getting quality products & the best deal?

The biggest deciding factor for many comes down to the warranty. Are my new replacement windows backed up with a warranty? Don't worry because at Aspen Home Improvements our windows are backed up with a Lifetime warranty!

At Aspen we want to make the entire process from meeting with our sales reps to choosing the right products for your home an enjoyable process, which is why we proudly stand by our lifetime warranty.

We not only stand by our warranty but we guarantee to you that you will not find a warranty like ours and the word "limited" is nowhere to be seen.

Any services needed on the window through fault of the material or labor is unconditionally covered by our warranty. There will be no labor charges to repair or replace the Starmark window if the respective failure is due to defect in materials or workmanship. We also warrant the installation and craftsmanship including exterior trim is free from defects in materials and workmanships for the life of the property.

Would you like a Free Estimate for your Home Improvement projects? Contact us today or call us. 717 569-3700.

Replacement Window and Entry Door Inspection

With temperatures dropping, now is a great time for you to increase your home’s energy-efficiency. Drafty windows and doorways can significantly raise cooling and heating costs. This is why conducting a walk-around, to ensure that the home windows are functional, or if they require replacing is necessary.

According to Energy Star, the average American household pays $2,200 annually on energy bills, with up to 50 % allocated to cooling and heating costs. Upgrading your house with energy-efficient replacement window options will protect it from cold temperatures and will help you save money.

Performing a yearly home inspection is a terrific way to look for potential maintenance needs and residential enhancements.  Search for leaks and drafts, and then replace or repair worn or damaged products to avoid pricey damage.

How you can inspect home windows and doorways:

• Check windowsills and door tracks for grime and debris, that may hamper the operation of windows and doors. Remove debris by lightly sweeping the area with a brush and then vacuum.
• Inspect exterior and interior finishes including, the area surrounding them. Is the paint or stain in good shape? Indications of flaking or peeling, may imply that you’re ready to replace the door or window.
• Change damaged windows and doorways with safer, more energy-efficient ones. Windows/Doors that don’t open and shut easily might be a safety risk, especially in case of a fire.

You are ready to replace your windows or doors if:

• They will not stay open: A door or window that does not open easily, or will not remain in place once opened, should be replaced.
• Overall performance is poor:  Windows and doors that are difficult to open or close or that allow air to leak in, should be changed.
• The Paint is Peeling: Chipping or peeling is present around the finish or on the door or window itself.
• They are not energy efficient: Drafty, leaking windows and doors make it more pricey to warm your house during winter.
• Windows are single-pane: Single-pane windows are less energy-efficient than double or triple-pane windows.
• Windows/Doors are water-damaged: There are water stains around or on the wall/floor space around the door or window.

To start your door or window replacement project, call Aspen Home Improvements at 717-569-3700 or contact us by clicking below:

Picture Windows for Your Home

 

There is a vast variety of replacement windows to choose from, and depending on the style of window that you choose, affects your home aesthetically. Picture windows are one of the more grandiose window options as they open up a home and allow lots of sunlight to filter in. But what is the anatomy of a picture window?

A picture window is a large fixed window and is designed to provide a clear, unhampered view. Because of their unobstructed view, picture windows act as a frame for outside scenery.

Picture windows typically do not open and can be used in combination with other windows that do open. For instance, pairing casement windows on either side of your picture window provides an aesthetically pleasing view, adds curb appeal to your home and still allows for outside ventilation. This combination of windows offers functionality and beauty in one perfect combination.

Window treatments can also be added to your picture windows to enhance the look of the entire window package. A common and practical way to offer privacy for your picture windows is to mount curtains that can be pulled aside or let hang freely.

To learn more about picture windows and our replacement picture window options, visit Aspen Home Improvements or contact us by clicking below: