Spring Savings on Replacement Windows

It is officially Spring! It’s that wonderful time of year when we can finally open our home’s windows, let the fresh air in, and bask in the warm spring sun.

For some of us, this time of the year means the dreaded (but usually much needed) spring cleaning. But don’t let the thought of spring cleaning stress you out. Tackle one project at a time, starting with your windows!

Throughout the winter, windows can get dirty and foggy, but a quick cleaning can usually fix that right up and you will have a great view of those beautiful blooming flowers in no time! Check out our window cleaning tips to get the perfect spotless window! 

For others, simply cleaning your windows isn’t going to do the trick. No window lasts forever—it may be time for new replacement windows! Spring is a great time to look into replacing your windows. Do you have difficulty opening your windows properly? Or do you have trouble closing them completely? These are signs it’s time for a replacement!

Another good reason that spring is the perfect time to replace your windows: Spring Savings with Aspen Home Improvements! Right now when you use the code SPRINGAHEAD you’ll save 10% on replacement windows!

Start your spring off right with new windows that really allow you to enjoy the great weather and let the warm sunshine in! Talk to us at our Pennsylvania or Maryland locations to learn more and get started!

Window Installation: What Happens to My Old Windows?

Are you getting new windows installed soon? You might be asking yourself: what do I do with my old windows?

Most homeowners have no need for old windows once their new ones are installed, although DIYers have thought up some pretty creative uses for old windows. But what happens if you don’t have any use for them? What should you do with these unwanted old windows?

There’s no need to do any research on what to with your old windows if you hired Aspen Home Improvements for your window replacement! We will make your life easy. When you replace your windows with Aspen, we’ll haul away your old windows for you!

Once your windows are installed, the only thing you will have to think about is sitting back and enjoying the beautiful view from our award-winning windows!

Are you thinking about upgrading your old windows soon? Contact us today for a Free Estimate! One of our home improvement specialists will give you a quote and work with you to plan your window replacement project.

4 Tips to Keep Your Home Warm And Save Money

There’s no denying that winter around this area can get COLD, so what can you do to save on heating?

The most obvious solution: turning the heat down. But you can only really lower it 1 or 2 degrees before you start to feel the difference. Who wants to freeze in their own home? Not us! And you shouldn’t have to either.

Here are a few things that you can do to help keep your home warm and save on heating costs this winter:

Going out? Turn it Down!

It is okay to turn your heat down if you know you will be leaving your home for an extended period of time. In fact, turning the temperature down 10-15% while you’re gone can help lower your heating costs every month.

Try installing a programmable thermostat if you’re on a regular work schedule, programming it to turn on a half hour before you arrive home so you can walk in to a comfortable temperature. Note: Make sure to keep the heat on high enough to prevent pipes from freezing.

Use Everything the Sun Has to Give

Most people don’t associate sunshine with winter, but the sun still comes out, and you can use that to your advantage. When the beams are shining into your home, open the curtains and let the sun in! The sunlight will help warm your house during the day, but remember to close them once the sun sinks below the horizon to help trap warm air in.

Insulate, Insulate, Insulate

Insulation is the number one thing helping to keep the heat inside the walls of your home! Start in the attic (most homes don’t have properly insulated attics) and work your way down.

Find Those Cracks

Any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, or the chimney allow the warm air in your home to escape. Find and seal any drafty areas to keep the cold out all winter long. Still feeling the cold coming through after sealing up the cracks in your windows? It might be time to think about installing replacement windows that are energy efficient!

Aspen Home Improvements offers a wide range of energy efficient replacement windows! Contact one of our home improvement specialists to learn more about installing new windows in your home. 

Repairing vs. Replacing

Like many things we purchase, sometimes windows come to a point when they’re just not quite worth repairing anymore and they just need to be replaced. The problem is in determining when exactly that point is. Here are areas you should consider when determining whether you should repair or replace your home’s windows.

Maintenance

Older windows require more maintenance than new windows, which is completely manageable if you have the time and don’t mind the extra work. If you’re just sick of the hassle of taking care of your windows, it might be time to replace them. Here are 3 questions you can answer that might sway your decision towards replacing instead of repairing:

Do the windows open and close easily? If you opt for the AC or heater even on the nicest of days simply to avoid the hassle of getting your windows opened and closed, it might be time to have them replaced so that you can give your home a little fresh air!

Are your windows painted? Painted windows can be a pain to keep looking nice as the paint can easily peel and become an eyesore inside and outside of your home. Replacing painted windows with new vinyl windows can eliminate this maintenance issue. If you don’t mind the sanding and repainting, and the windows are functioning as intended, then repairing the windows may be the best route for you.

How easy are your windows to clean? If you avoid cleaning your windows because they’re so difficult to clean, or worse, unsafe, then it’s time to replace them.

Energy Efficiency

If you notice major fluctuations in temperature inside your home despite the air conditioning or furnace, it might be time to swap your windows for more energy efficient ones. If your windows aren’t energy efficient you may be letting cold air in during those chilly winter nights, which can increase your heating bill. 

If your windows are energy efficient, drafts might be the problem and can be repaired by a professional, or you can try fixing the draft yourself.

Cost

Sometimes the cost of repairing a window just isn’t worth it. Here are some examples where replacing the window could be the cheaper or easier option in the long run:

Do you have wood rot? If your windows are showing signs of wood rot, it’s time to replace. Although you can attempt to fix this problem, it can be time consuming and may not fix the issue for good.

Is your hardware sticking or not working properly? You can replace the hardware on your windows, but of this doesn’t fix anything, the frame may be the problem and can be costly to fix.

Does condensation collect in your double pane windows? This could mean you have problems with the glass or window frame, which means it’s time to invest in new windows.

Have you decided what to do? Are you going to repair or replace your home’s windows?

If you decided replacement is the best option, Aspen Home Improvements has a variety of energy efficient window options to choose from and we offer professional window installation throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland. Contact Aspen to learn more about our window selections, products, and special offers!

5 Common Mistakes in Window Replacement

Replacing your windows with new energy-efficient windows can be a huge money saver, but only if you do it right. Take a look at the 5 most common mistakes homeowners make when they decide to replace their windows.

1. Improperly Installing Windows

Even the most energy-efficient windows you can get your hands on will do no good if they’re not installed properly. This is the most common mistake Aspen Home Improvements’ window specialists see homeowners make when replacing their Pennsylvania and Maryland home’s windows. Not only will energy-efficiency decrease, but the windows will wear more quickly, meaning they’ll need to be replaced again even sooner.

2. Trying to Do It Yourself

If you’re the DIY type, it may be temping to replace the windows on your own, but unless you have experience and training, it might not be the best idea. Remember mistake number 1 we mentioned above? Hiring a local home improvement professional, like our trained team at Aspen, to install your windows is worth the extra cost. You will save money in the long run with a window that will keep drafts out and won’t wear due to improper installation.  

3. Opting for Off-Brand Windows

If you’re looking to save money on your window replacement project, off-brand windows might sound appealing, but it’s always a better idea to go with a well-known name. Brands like our line of Starmark and Insul-Tec 500 windows respected in the industry for their energy-efficiency and functionality. Do your research and then talk to one of our specialists to find the right fit for you!

4. Using Cost as your Main Search Factor

We get that cost is a big factor in any home improvement project, but windows are one of those places that you should look to invest a bit more. Buying based on price alone could leave you with a window that’s worse then the ones you currently have. Yikes! If you are still worried about your budget, we have home financing options that will help feel comfortable staying within your price point!

5. Not Consulting a Professional

Most home improvement professionals offer free consultations. Take advantage of these! Sit down with a window installation specialist and talk about both your budget and what you’re looking for in your new windows. You should feel confident with the company you hire and comfortable enough to ask them any questions you may have along the process.

Schedule a free consultation with a home improvement specialist at Aspen Home Improvements and we’ll discuss what you’re looking for and how we can help you improve your home!

Trending: Double Hung Windows

Are you planning to replace your windows soon?

Windows are very susceptible to wear and tear due to constant use. If you want more durable and easy to use windows, take a look at some of the advantages of choosing double hung windows for your home.

Ease of Use

Due to its flexible sash design, double-hung windows are very easy to use. You can tilt each side without the worry of damaging or breaking the glass.

Aspen Home Improvements uses the latest window technology from Starmark and Insul-tec 500 that makes the glass materials durable and resistant to breakage or damage.

A Wide Range Of Styles

Double-hung windows come in variety of styles and designs that cater to a wider range of customers who have unique window needs.

Whether you have a modern, conventional, or a stylish home, you will be able to find a replacement window that will be the best match for your style preferences, complementing the look of your home.

Simple Cleaning & Maintenance

Another great advantage of double-hung windows are that they give homeowner the ease of window maintenance.

You can easily rotate and tilt the upper and lower sash of each double hung window, making it easier to clean the surface - even from inside your home!

Are you ready for an upgrade your home with double hung windows? Let our experts at Aspen Home Improvements help you choose the perfect selection for your home!

And don’t forget about our Fall Special: Buy 4 Windows, Get 1 Free! Hurry, this deal won’t last much longer. Set up your consultation today!

Aspen’s Window Cleaning Tips

Does everything look a little blurry or dingy when you look outside your window? It might be time to give them a good cleaning before it gets way too cold to have those windows open! 

If you’ve upgraded your windows with Aspen then you’re in luck – our Starmark brand windows are a breeze to clean! Starmark’s window latches allow for easy angling to clean both inside and out, plus our casement windows open a full 90°, just pop the screen out to clean.

What are you waiting for? Get started on your path to clean windows with these expert window cleaning tips:

For The Glass

To remove any filth that may have left a layer of film over your window, a simple mixture of mild dish soap and water should do the trick; just apply to a soft cloth or sponge and wipe.

To remove heavy grime, wipe with a dry cloth first then move on to clean with soapy water, vinegar, or liquid window cleaner; there’s no need for abrasive cleaners on Starmark windows. Use a squeegee for a streak-free finish!

• CAUTION: Using abrasive cleaners or attempting to remove built up dirt or dried on paint with a metal razor blade may damage Starmark’s Heat Shield™ coating.

For Window Screens

Cleaning your window screens not only allows you to see out your windows better, but it also lets more air flow through when you have your windows open. Whether you’re cleaning a conventional screen or Starmark’s innovative ThruVision Plus® screen, your best friend is a soft fiber cloth.

Using a soft cloth, wipe down the window screen with the same soap and water mixture you used on the glass and rinse thoroughly with fresh water. For tough spots, try using a bit of rubbing alcohol on the window screen.

For The Hardware

Typically all the hardware (latches or handles) needs is a little dusting, but if they’re really looking bad, a bit of soapy water will do the trick!

Learn more about Starmark windows on our website.

If your home needs a few new windows, or a complete window makeover, get in contact with our team of home improvement specialists! We will help you find the right windows for your home.

Fall Savings: Buy 4 Windows, Get 1 Free!

Have you been thinking about updating your windows? It’s time to stop thinking and start doing before you miss out on Aspen’sfall savings! Right now, when you buy 4 windows you’ll get 1 window FREE!

There are many benefits to replacing your old, damaged windows. Not only do they improve the curb appeal of your home, but they provide you with a better home environment and even increase your financial savings. 

Benefits of Replacing Old Windows

Updated Style: New windows can completely transform a room! Many people don’t think about this when they redecorate the rooms in their home, but windows matching your home’s décor can add a whole new level of style. Not only will you notice, but your neighbors will too. Take a look at the variety of window styles we offer online, or come visit our Lancaster showroom!

Monthly Savings: Energy efficient windows can help homeowners save approximately 45% on heating and air conditioning costs when they switch green windows! Plus, you may qualify for energy efficient tax credits.

A Quieter Home: Replacing your windows is especially helpful for those living on busy roads. New windows can help reduce the transmission of sound coming into your home! Loud neighbors? We’ve all been there… you don’t need to move to get away; replacing your windows might be all you need!

Improve Your Comfort: We all know the struggle of having to sit in that one chair in your home that’s right next to the window in the winter. It’s FREEZING! With new windows, you can help keep that cold air from coming into your home. You might even enjoy sitting by the window watching the winter snow as it falls.

Stop putting off replacing your windows - this seasonal offer won’t be around for long! Learn more about Aspen Home Improvement’s windows and find the perfect match for your home! Schedule a free estimate with us today.

How To Start Shopping for Any Home Improvement Project

Does just the thought of remodeling your home leave you feeling overwhelmed?

Whether you’re redecorating one room or giving your home’s exterior a total overhaul, it can be stressful. We see it all the time here at Aspen Home Improvements. Most people don’t even know where to begin, and that’s why we’re here to help guide you through the process of starting your home improvement project.

Be Inspired

Gathering inspiration from websites like Pinterest or Houzz can be a big help when you’re trying to decide exactly what you want to do with your home.

Did you know that on Houzz you can search the work of local companies like ours? You can see before and after images from previous projects, as well as customer reviews that we have worked with in the past.

When you discover images representing what you’d like to do with your own home, make sure to save them – they can come in handy when meeting with a professional.

Get Up Close and Personal

Stop by showrooms in your area and get an up-close look at the items you’re thinking about using in your renovation.

This is the fastest way to actually meet with home improvement specialists and see the products in person, rather than online. Our showroom has a diverse display of all the products we offer, and someone is always available to answer your questions and help you find what is right for your home!

Set Your Budget

Now that you’ve decided what you’d like to do with your home and have taken a look at some of the products your likely be using (hopefully you’ve taken a look at the showroom price-tags), you can set your budget.

Determine how much you can spend and then prioritize your spending to make sure you can afford to finish the most important/necessary aspects.

If you’re taking on a larger project, you can also consider home improvement financing.

Get Professional Help

There are some projects that you can do yourself, but we recommend talking to one of our home improvement specialists to see if you should tackle the project yourself or get professional help.

Our team has seen a lot of DIY mistakes in the past that we have had to correct. DIY projects can sometimes cause more damage to your home, resulting in an even more expensive home renovation.

If you’re thinking about any exterior renovations (windows, doors, roofing, and/or siding) Aspen Home Improvements’ specialists are here to assist you!

Send us a message or give us a call at 717-569-3700, we’d love to talk and help you turn your home into your dream home.

Keep the Heat In and the Cold Out: How to Find & Fix Drafts

Before the cool weather finally decides to stick around for good in Central Pennsylvania, it’s a smart idea to make sure your windows and doors are ready! Did you know that if you add up the heat-loss from all the cracks and holes in the average home, it would add up to the equivalent of leaving 1 window open every day of the year. That’s a lot of wasted energy! Let’s fix this.

How to Find a Draft

When you’re trying to identify a draft, wait for a windy day and try these methods:

• Wet your fingers and move them along the cracks of your windows and doors. If you feel a cool breeze on your fingers, you’ve found the culprit.
•  Light a candle and move it along the window or door frame. If the flame flickers, that means that air is moving past.
• Close all your windows and turn off any appliances that may create a disturbance in the air. Light some incense and watch the movement of the smoke. If the smoke is either sucked out the frame or blown into the house, that’s where the draft is coming from.

Fixing a Draft

Now that you’ve identified your problem areas, it’s time to fix it. Here are 3 methods of solving a draft problem:

Draft Stopper: If the draft is coming in from the base of your window or door, one solution is to purchase a draft stopper. Draft stoppers can be purchased online or from local hardware stores. If you’re feeling crafty, try making your own draft stopper.

Image Source: Little House in the City

Weather Stripping: As an alternative option to the draft stopper, weather stripping can be installed. There are many online tutorials for installing weather stripping, or you can leave it to a professional, like Aspen Home Improvements.

Caulking: For drafts coming through the side of a window or door, caulking is a great option. When fixing indoor areas try clear caulking for the best look. Once the caulk has dried, use one of the 3 testing options again to make sure the problem has been fixed.

Replacing: If none of these options seem like the right solution to your problem, you may need a new window or door installed.

• If you have wooden widows, they’re likely to deteriorate over time if they’re not maintained properly with sealing and painting. Aspen has a wide variety of high performance windows to choose from to help you save even more energy.
• Does your home have sliding doors? The life span of these types of doors is typically 10-15 years, if your past this point, replacing them might be necessary. Choose from Aspen’s selection of doors that can be quickly installed in your home.

Looking for more ways to prepare your home for winter? See our last blog.

How Can Windows Improve Your Home?

Good windows improve your home. Great windows improve your life.

Windows are integral to the home. They perform several functions that together make your home experience better. If you own lackluster, old, or damaged units, you should consider replacing your windows. Here are four ways that windows can benefit you and your home:

Natural light is a source of healthy living.

Natural light is a great source for our body, mind, spirit. Aside from the emotional benefits, daylight has been shown to have a significant impact on productivity and health. Our eyes and brains simply function more optimally with natural light versus artificial lighting. Regardless of how your window looks, ensure your home has a source of natural light in every room, when possible.

Windows can make your home more energy-efficient.

The right windows can help you save on energy costs. Energy-efficient windows in central and eastern Pennsylvania area reduce the need for heating and cooling, which makes them great investments for your home.

Windows can enhance your home's curb appeal.

Upgrading or changing your windows can not only add more value to your home, the correct type of windows can massively enhance the architectural style of your home, whether the style is traditional, contemporary, simplistic, or modern.

Windows can improve indoor air quality.

Because we spend many of our days indoors, it’s important to make sure that the air we’re breathing in is fresh and safe. The best replacement units protects against moisture and condensation concerns, which may lead to mold formation and accumulation of harmful substances. With new windows, a healthier living environment is possible.

Ready to improve your home with new windows?

Let Aspen Home Improvements help you! Contact us today to speak with our experts and schedule your free estimate.

Summer Savings

Summer is a great time to think about renovating your home and finally making the repairs that you’ve been putting off.

With longer days and more opportunities to entertain guests, many homeowners are ready to take the time to invest in an upgrade. Even small changes can make a big difference in the overall appearance of a home.

This summer, Aspen Home Improvements is offering big savings on windows, doors, roofing, and siding to ensure that you get quality service at an affordable price!

50% Off Window Replacement. Aspen's offering 50% off labor on all replacement windows! Having sustainable and energy efficient windows can, in itself, save you around 45% on heating and cooling costs. Aspen offers Starmark windows, which provide exceptional insulation and have a design that’s easy to clean and maintain.

Free Patio Door Installation. Another summer special from Aspen is a free patio door installation. Nothing beats a summer afternoon on the deck, and the entrance is often the first impression of an outdoor space to a guest. Aspen offers an amazing selection of custom doors that are not only elegant, but strong and sturdy. Don’t let an opportunity like this pass you by!

$500 Roof Replacement Service. Aspen is also giving all clients $500 off a new roof replacement service. While it’s easy to overlook the maintenance and upkeep of your roof, having quality roofing can drastically influence a home’s overall appearance. You won’t regret investing in quality roofing that could not only provide a lifetime of protection, but ultimately save you time and money as well!

30% Off Siding. Siding can greatly improve the curb appeal of your home. Efficient and sustainable, Aspen’s siding service can protect your home from everything from noise to extreme winds. However, one of the biggest advantages will be the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your home is safe from the elements.

Take advantage of these opportunities while they last!

Contact Aspen Home Improvements today to learn more about which service is right for you and how they can benefit your home!

Vinyl vs. Wood Windows

Beautiful windows on a home can instantly increase its visual appeal to guests and potential buyers. Old, cracked windows can make even some of the most gorgeous homes look dated and less inviting. 

When looking into window replacements, many homeowners wonder whether they should purchase wood or vinyl windows. Nevertheless, the decision is much easier than one might think. Here are some of the reasons why vinyl may be the best choice!

1. Vinyl windows are very low maintenance

Forget painting or sealing! Vinyl windows require very little maintenance after they are professionally installed. On the other hand, wood windows have to be painted and repainted to maintain their appearance. With vinyl, the color you choose before installation is the color they’ll stay!

2. Vinyl windows are much cheaper.

On average, a vinyl window should cost around 25% less than a wood window. This is mostly because fewer manufacturers are producing wood windows. Therefore, not only will you save money on maintenance, but also on initial cost!

3. You won’t have to worry about rotting or termites.

Termites can be a major threat to wood windows. In the case of an infestation, you could find yourself having to purchase all new windows, which could cost you hundreds of dollars and hours of work. Vinyl windows are resistant to environmental threats such as this, including corrosion, rotting, and air pollution. This is yet another way that choosing vinyl can potentially save you money in the long term!

However, if you are considering a window replacement and want the look of wood windows, Aspen Home Improvements offers Starmark windows, which have the look and feel of authentic wood windows without the maintenance! Starmark is also extremely energy efficient and provides excellent insulation.

Call or stop by our showroom today to talk with our experts and schedule a free estimate!

Is It Time To Replace Your Windows?

Are you unsure if you need to replace your home's windows? If your home is older than 15 years, it's probably a good time to check and make sure your windows are still operating correctly. For instance, do you have trouble opening or closing your windows? Do you consistently find moisture on your windows' interior? Just like your roof shingles, over time, your windows and doors need to be replaced. To help you through the replacement process, we are providing the following tips and solutions to help determine if the time to replace or upgrade your windows is now.

DO YOUR WINDOWS USE SINGLE-PANE GLASS?

Many older homes still use their original windows built with single-pane glass. Simply put, single-pane glass with windows is not energy efficient. These old windows often freeze open or shut, and they feel cold or icy to the touch. They’re also known to develop frost on the inside of the window, which increases the chances of breakage, ultimately causing damage to your home.

DO YOUR WINDOWS LEAK WATER OR LET IN TOO MUCH AIR IN THE WINTER OR SUMMER MONTHS?

The weather conditions outside your home should not appear on the inside—a good sign that your windows need to be replaced. Inefficient windows can leak, allowing water to come into your house both in front of and behind the walls—a leading cause of mold and mildew in homes. Old, worn-out windows or patio doors often leak air, resulting in high energy bills during peak heating and cooling months. The glass may be loose or the seal between the sash and frame may have weakened.

DO YOUR WINDOWS CLOSE AND LOCK PROPERLY?

Besides being an important safety concern, air escapes through windows and patio doors left opened or even just unlocked. Escaping air greatly reduces the energy efficiency of your home, and replacing your windows helps to eliminate this problem.

ARE YOUR WINDOWS FALLING APART OR ROTTING?

If a window is failing as a result of leaking or sticking, it’s probably time to replace. If a window is rotting or falling apart, you should replace it right away.

If after reading these tips you feel your windows are out dated, drafty, cracked, or just plain “old” it is time for an upgrade. Installing beautiful, new replacement windows can be one of the smartest investments you make to your home. New energy efficient tax credits have raised standards for energy efficient windows; home owners can save up to an average of 45% on cooling and heating costs if they outfit their home with updated replacement “green windows.”

Aspen Home Improvements is proud to offer Energy Star windows. Feel free to explore the benefits of our finest window The Starmark, or our other exceptional choice, The Insul-Tec 500 series.

Call or come in today to talk to our window experts and set up your free consultation. We are conveniently located on Lititz Pike in Lancaster, Pa. We serve customers over a large area of central and eastern Pennsylvania, including Lancaster, Harrisburg, York, Reading, Chester, and Berks.

Energy-Efficient Windows vs. Traditional Windows

Are you paying high energy bills?

Most homeowners might be unhappy with the cost of their monthly energy bills but aren’t sure what to do about it other than complain about losing money. But did you know that the windows in your home greatly impact your energy bills?

In winter, your heat may be leaking through cracks in your windows, resulting in a rise in your heating bill. Some even see an increase of up to 25% percent.

In summer, the opposite happens. The strong UV rays from the sun enter in through poorly insulated glass windows, causing the interior of your home to become hotter. This causes your air conditioning units to work twice as hard to keep your home to your desired temperature.

The solution?

Energy-efficient windows!

Energy-Efficient Windows vs. Traditional Windows

Glass Coating

If low-emissivity coatings are applied to glass, it can help control the temperature within your home. A coating on the outside will reflect sunlight, thus keeping your home cooler. A coating on interior glass will keep the warm air inside your home.

Structure

The material of your window frame can also affect the temperature of your home. Traditional windows made from materials such as aluminum conduct a lot of heat, causing them to warm your home. This causes energy bills to increase during the summer. Also, most traditional windows are reported to leak air a lot because they are not properly sealed. Energy-efficient windows are filled with nontoxic gas that help prevent hot or cool air from escaping.

Energy Star

We are proud to carry Energy Star windows! It is guaranteed that every product with the Energy Star label has met strict federal guidelines for energy efficiency. Not only do these windows save homeowners a significant amount on monthly utility bills, they also reduce greenhouse emission gases, leaving a lighter carbon footprint than traditional windows.

Other Benefits

When you install energy-efficient windows in your home, you can spend less on heating and cooling equipment. And, because they won’t be working as hard to maintain your home’s temperature, they will require less maintenance and last much longer. It is also possible to obtain cash rebates for installing energy-efficient windows.

Are you ready to replace your traditional windows with top-quality energy-efficient windows from Energy Star? Contact our team! We will schedule a consultation so that we can begin prepping your home for new windows!

Common Problems with Older Houses

The aging process doesn’t just affect us. Did you know that your house also experiences an aging process? In fact, in the construction industry, it’s estimated that every building has, on average, a 50-year “useful” life. That estimate includes even those of you who practice the best maintenance on your home.

If you are planning to buy or sell an older home, you will want to have a home inspector look over everything. Unfortunately, they often come across problems that can stop the buying/selling process. Don’t let it get this far before you're aware of any problems – learn what types of warning signs to pay attention to in advance to avoid costlier, more extensive fixes in the future.

No insulation. If your older home’s insulation hasn’t already begun to deteriorate, chances are it didn’t have any to begin with. Sometimes older houses are built with non-insulated windows and without insulation in walls, floors, and attics at all. Hire a professional to add insulation throughout your house – it’s going to need to be done eventually. Then enjoy lower energy costs!

Improper drainage. Draining that occurs close to the back of your home could pose a problem. Excess moisture could lead to rot in your walls and even movement or unsettling in your foundation. Correcting foundation problems is one of the most expensive problems you will have to fix, so don’t put it off – it will only add to the final bill.

Roofing damage. As your home ages, so does your roof. This can lead to a higher risk of water damage, both to your roof and the interior of your home. Warning signs of damage: curling, lifting, splitting, cupping, or rotting shingles. If your roof is improperly installed, it will speed along the aging process. Make sure that you hire trusted professionals to do the job right the first time!

Faulty wiring. Home regulation standards are constantly changing in an attempt to keep you and your family safer. However, this means that outdated systems are very common in older homes. Also, because of constant usage, wiring wears down easily. These electrical problems require immediate attention because they are usually to blame as the cause of most house fires.

Outdated HVAC systems. Inefficient heating/cooling systems will greatly impact the temperature inside your home. If these systems are outdated, you will see a significant increase in heating/cooling costs every year. This is a sign that it’s time to upgrade!

These problems are not something to set aside and come back to later. The longer you wait, the more extensive the project will be. Not to mention, you could be adding thousands to your bill every year that these problems sit on your to-do list.

Take action and contact us today! We will be happy to give you a FREE estimate before we tackle these problems. You are in good hands with Aspen Home Improvements!