With the rising cost of living, you might be looking for a way to save a little money each month. If so, you might consider talking with providers of replacement windows in Anaheim, CA. about energy-efficient window options for your home. Not only do these newer windows have special features to make them more energy efficient, but they may also fit more sung reducing any drafts you might have around your home.

What Are Energy-Efficient Windows?

Energy-efficient windows are specifically designed to help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter by keeping the inside air in, and the outside air out. They are insulated and come in various tints. All of this helps reduce your home’s energy usage which is better for the environment and your wallet!

Energy-Efficient Window Components

There are several components of a window that help make it energy efficient. These components include:

• Multiple Window Panes- Energy-efficient windows are typically made up of double or triple pane window glass. These sheets of glass create air pockets between them that are filled with gases and sealed. This helps act as insulation.
• Low-E Glass Coating- Low emissivity coating (Low-E) is designed to direct how the heat from the sun enters into your home. For example, an exterior low-E coating will allow the sunlight to pass through but will reflect the ultraviolet and infrared light from entering, which is the heat. This can also be used in the opposite way where the entire spectrum is allowed to enter. This is used in colder climates to help keep heat trapped in the home making it stay warmer.
• Window Spacers- These window spacers are used to insulate the edge of the window pane and do so by helping reduce the transfer of heat
• Window Glass Fills- These are the gases that are used to fill the space between the window panes. These gases are typically argon, and krypton and are colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.

Other Factors to Consider

Besides the actual window components, there are other factors that will determine the efficiency of your new windows. These factors should be taken into consideration when choosing the window options so that you get the maximum energy efficiently possible. Factors include:

• The placement of the windows- Your windows may have different needs based on what side of the house they are being installed. For example, one side of the house may need a low-E coating that allows the full spectrum to enter, while another room or side of the house may need a coating that only allows the light and reduces the heat.
• Window installation- Improper window installation can leave cracks, gaps or other issues with your windows, not allowing them to work to their full potential. Because of this, it’s a good idea to leave the installation to professionals.
• Geography- Not every area will have the same needs and your home’s location and climate will help you decide what options you will need. For example, climates that are colder most of the year will need different window options than areas that are hotter year-round.

If you would like to learn more about how new replacement windows in Anaheim, CA. can help save you money and make your house more energy efficient, give us a call anytime as we are always happy to help.

There may be signs that it’s time to replace your home windows. Maybe you are noticing your heating and cooling bills starting to rise. Perhaps you are starting to feel drafts from the window frames. Or maybe you just want to improve your home’s overall curb appeal. Whatever the reasons for your new replacement windows in Orange, CA., you most likely have questions. Here are some of the most common questions and things you need to know about replacing your home windows.

1. When Should I Replace My Windows?

As we mentioned, your windows will show very clear signs that they need to be replaced. Some of these signs may include:

• Chipped paint
• Damaged glass
• Higher energy costs
• Feeling drafts
• Broken locks
• Difficult to open or close
• Several and various past repairs

2. Do All the Windows Have to Be Replaced at Once?

If you have the ability, then replacing all of your windows at once can be a great option. This will provide maximum benefits of safety and energy-efficiency features and give your home a stunning new makeover.

However, if you are not able to replace all your home windows at once, there are a few things you can do. First, you can choose to replace just those windows that need it the most. Two, you can replace all the windows along a certain side of the house. (For example, the side that faces the street or a side that you want to block the hot afternoon sun from coming in.) And three, if you have a multi-level house, you could choose to replace those windows on just one story at a time.

3. What’s the Best Time of  Year for Window Installation?

While having nice weather for your window installation is ideal, it’s not always a reality. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, in the fall, the weather can be lovely, but that is also a busy time for window installation so you may have a difficult time getting a project scheduled.

On the other hand, while winter has less than ideal conditions, it is a slower time for window companies, so you are much more likely to get your project scheduled when you want. Don’t let the weather or season deter you from getting your new windows installed.

4. How Much Do New Windows Cost?

With so many options of styles of windows, materials the windows are made from, glass packages, installation costs, and more, giving an estimate on your window cost just isn’t feasible. Since installing a replacement window can range from $200-$1200 or more it just depends on your specific choices and number of windows to know what the cost will be.

Talking to a reputable window company and going over your options will give you a much clearer idea of a budget range you should be looking at.

Final Thoughts

While this is not an extensive list of questions you may have about installing new replacement windows in Orange, CA., hopefully it answered a few of the most important ones. Knowing the signs that signal you need new windows, along with which ones to replace first, can get you well on your way to starting this project.

If you are considering replacement windows in Anaheim, CA., and want something different than the usual single pane window, you may want to choose either a casement window or double-hung window. If you are not familiar with these types of styles, keep reading to learn more about the advantages of each and as well as other reasons they can be a good choice.

What is a Casement Window?

Casement windows, also called crank windows, are windows that open outward with a crank rather than sliding up and down to open. Because of how they are installed and how they open, they have an airtight seal and are typically the most energy efficient type of window.

Another nice feature to the casement window is that due to how it opens, it provides more options to be installed in a variety of openings. These windows are perfect for any room and can often be found in places such as kitchens and bathrooms.

What is a Double-Hung Window?

As opposed to the crank style operation of a casement window, double-hung windows open and close by moving up and down in the frame. These windows are the most popular choice due to the fact they are low maintenance. Homeowners also love the fact they have a tilt feature and be easily cleaned without the use of ladders or stepstools.

Category Comparison

When buying new replacement windows for your home, there are a few key categories you may be focused on. Let’s look how these two window styles compare in these areas.

Visual Aesthetic – Any new window style will spruce up your home and add to your curb appeal, but depending on the look you are going for, one might be better than the other. For example, if you want more of a traditional look to your home, then the classic double-hung would be a good option. However, if you would like a more modern contemporary look, casement windows would be your pick.

Durability- While both windows are durable, for maximum durability you might be better off with a double-hung window. That is because with the way casement windows open, they are more susceptible to the elements such as wind and rain, both of which can damage windows over time.

Energy Efficiency- As mentioned, casement windows are typically the most energy efficient so if that is your top priority, casement windows are the way to go. With that being said, double-hung windows can also be very energy efficient so, if you have your heart set on this type of window, know you will still gain the energy efficient benefits.

Other Considerations

There are a few other factors that should be considered when deciding on which type of window you choose. These include location and ease of operation.

Location – Depending on the location of the window, it might make more sense to install one style over the other. For example, a casement style is great for over the kitchen sink because its crank style makes it much more accessible to open and close rather than sliding a double-hung window.

Ease of Operation – Since each window opens in a completely different way, you may have a preference of which will be easier for you or those in your family to operate. For example, if you have anyone in your family who is elderly, one style might be easier for them to operate than another.

When you are ready for replacement windows in Anaheim, CA, it’s nice to know there are so many options available other than the single pane window. Both casement and double-hung windows can make a great choice.

Buying new replacement windows in Orange, CA. can be an exciting decision. Afterall, new windows can spruce up your curb appeal, add extra security to you home, and help lower your heating and cooling costs…who wouldn’t be excited? The problem is, in all this excitement, many homeowners overlook or forget important factors that they may regret later. If you are ready to get new replacement windows for your home, check out these common mistakes so you can make sure you don’t make the same ones.

1. Not Asking About or Understanding Warranties

While most window manufactures provide warranties, they can differ as to what they cover. Most will cover any defects in the products, but that may not be enough. If you want to make sure you have adequate warranty coverage, make sure to also talk to window installers about their warranties.

Many installers offer warranties that cover their work. This, along with the window manufacture’s warranties should be enough to keep your windows and installation covered and help give you peace of mind.

2. Not Knowing Your Options

Many times, homeowners may just replace old windows with the same style of new window. This may be because it is what they are used to, or their lack of knowledge of what windows are available.

There are so many window materials, styles, and glass packages to choose from that before you purchase your windows, you should really learn explore all of these options.

3. Selecting a Company with No Good Reviews

Some homeowners are going to place cost and timeframe as high priorities when choosing a company for their window installation. While these are obviously very important factors, you also want to make sure the company has good reviews.

If a company comes in with a price that is under budget, but has no good reviews, it probably isn’t the best decision to go with them. Don’t let the price and timeframe of the bid distract you from the company’s past work and reputation.

4. Trying to Install the Windows Yourself

As a homeowner, you probably have completed several tasks and projects in the past. Maybe some of them were large or complicated and because of this, you are feeling like you can install these new windows without professional help. This is not a good idea.

There are many things that go into replacing windows so that they are installed correctly for maximum energy efficiency and so they last for years to come. Also, there may be underlying issues that are exposed once the old windows are taken out. These issues will need to be addressed before the new windows are installed. Professional window installers know how to handle these issues and get them resolved quickly.

In Conclusion

Deciding on replacement windows in Orange, CA. is a big decision. With so many things to think about such as what type of windows you should choose, to setting you budget, it’s easy to forget or overlook other key elements. When you are getting ready to add new replacement windows to you home, make sure to take time to cover all your bases to ensure you don’t have any regrets down the line.

If you are a homeowner who is considering new replacement windows in Anaheim, CA., there are several factors to take into consideration. Things like what type of material you should choose, what style of window you want, and what type of glazing you need are just some of the things you will need to decide.

To help make this process a little easier, we are going to dive into these topics a little more so that you have the information you need to help choose the right windows.

Set Your Budget

Before we get into the different factors, the first thing you need to decide is your budget. This should be done first so that you know ahead of time what your price ranges are and what you type of options you should be considering.

It’s easy to get carried away when you are walking through a showroom of beautiful new windows all with unique features. Know your budget ahead of time and ask to look at those options that stay within in it.

1. Window Material

When selecting windows, you will typically find three main material choices. These are wood, fiberglass (also called composite), and vinyl. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages so choosing the right one will depend on your needs.

For example, if you want a lot of color options for your window, then vinyl would be a great choice. However, if your main priority s a window that is the most durable, fiberglass would be your pick. Lastly, you might pick wood if you want to match your home’s interior trim.

2. Style of Window

When choosing replacement windows, you will also need to decide what style window you would like. Just as with window materials, there are few to choose from each having its own unique qualities. These options can include:

· Double-hung Windows – Many homeowners enjoy these windows because they are low maintenance and stylish. They also feature a tilt design which allows for easy cleaning without the use of things like ladders or stepstools.

· Sliding Windows – These are a shorter, wider window than the more popular double-hung and move along a horizontal track. They may also have options to open on either side.

· Casement (or Crank) Windows These windows are great because they are airtight sealed and use a crank to open rather than sliding up and down. Because of this, they are the most energy-efficient choice. The way they operate also allows them to be installed in a variety of openings.

3. Selecting the Glass Package

Once you have determined the material and style of your windows, you will need to select a glass package. While each package can have its benefits, if you are looking for optimal energy-efficiency, low emissivity, also called Low-E, coatings are recommended.

These coatings help cool your home in the summer by reflecting the outside heat away. In the winter, they allow heat into your home keeping you warmer. These features will help your family be more comfortable and save you money on your utility bill each month.

In Conclusion

Investing in new replacement windows for your home is a big decision. Setting your budget first, and then selecting the material, style, and glass package based on your family’s needs will help you choose the right windows for your home.

Now that you have installed your black fiberglass replacement windows in Orange, CA., how do you keep them looking like new? This is a very common question from homeowners as new fiberglass windows are a big investment and you want to keep them looking good.

Luckily, if you chose Milgard’s Ultra Series black fiberglass windows for your home, you will find they are very durable and low maintenance so they should only require normal DIY cleaning.

Keeping your Milgard windows clean and free of dust and grime isn’t just aesthetically pleasing, it’s healthier for your family, and actually helps extends the lifespan of the window. Dust and particles that come in from outside can scratch and ding your frame and windows appearance.

Knowing how to perform regular, lighter cleaning as well as scheduled deeper cleanings can keep them in tip top shape for years to come. Check out these tips to know what to do.

Cleaning the Glass

Do you remember when your grandma would wash windows, it would smell like vinegar? Well, that’s because that’s what they used. Vinegar has been used as a cleaner for glass for a long time. Why? It works.

You can make a vinegar cleaning solution right at home. Simply mix equal part hot water with equal part distilled (also called “white”) vinegar. Mix and pour solution into a spray bottle. Spray solution on your window and simply wipe off with a soft dry cloth.

Cleaning your windows like this on a regular basis will help them from having dirt and other stains build up. This will keep them cleaner and make your job of cleaning them much easier

This solution should remove most smudges and easy stains, drips, etc. If tougher stains are present, never try to scratch them off as that can ruin your window. The best thing to do is call a professional cleaning company or the manufacturer and see what they suggest.

Cleaning the Frame

If there is a lot of dust and dirt in the corners and other tight areas of your Milgard fiberglass window frame, you can use your vacuum attachment and vacuum the dirt out before you wash the frame.

Once most of the dirt and dust is gone, you can wash the frame with the same vinegar solution you made for the glass or choose a commercial window frame cleaning product. Just make sure that whatever product you choose, it is made especially for fiberglass windows. Some cleaners can be too rough and too abrasive for fiberglass frames.

Cleaning Routine

The key to keeping your black fiberglass windows looking great is to stay on top of their cleaning. While they don’t require much upkeep with Milgard fiberglass being so durable and low-maintenance, depending on your home environment you may have to dust and clean them more or less often than someone else.

Find a routine that works for you and your family. A few things to keep in mind are to dust and wipe down the frames pretty regularly to prevent dirt build-up. Also, of course clean the glass as needed, but on a regular basis as well. If you have a lot of windows, you could do this on a rotating schedule.

Your Milgard fiberglass replacement windows in Orange, CA. are a big investment that will pay off in so many ways. Keeping them clean and free of dust and grime will keep them stay working and looking like new for years to come.

Although being around since the nineteenth century, black windows are one of the most underused design elements in a home. While these windows can be seen every year in more and more homes, they are still outnumbered by their white and neutral counterparts. If you are considering new replacement windows in Anaheim, CA., do yourself a favor and consider black windows. If you are not sure if they would look good on your home, we’ll walk you through a few specific questions and tips for installing windows.

Do You Want a Home That Stands Out?

While white windows are nice and they can certainly complement certain styles of houses, they are pretty common and expected. They may look pretty, but there is nothing extraordinary about them.

Black windows, on the other hand, stand out and make a statement. They do so in a quiet, elegant, sleek way though. They don’t scream the statement, rather they simply get noticed. When you add black windows to your home, your house instantly looks different than the rest of your neighbors and stands out in a really good way.

Do You Want to Add Drama?

Having black windows instantly adds drama to the interior space of your home. The contrast of a black window frame against a white or light-colored wall looks dramatic, modern, and classic. If you would like a softer dramatic feel, add a warmer paint tone on the wall so that it reduces the contrast. No matter what colors you choose, black windows will add extra style to any design atheistic.

Do You Have an Amazing View?

If you are lucky enough to overlook a gorgeous mountain, beach, or other lovely views, you need black windows. Having black windows on the interior will frame your view just as a black picture frame does with a painting. Having a beautiful view framed by gorgeous black windows will make an impactful statement that guests will notice as soon as they enter the room.

Do You Want to Complement Your Landscaping?

When your home looks elegant and tidy with the clean lines the black windows provide, everything else will look better as well, this includes the landscaping. Whether you have more of a natural feel to your landscaping or like a manicured and trimmed space, your yard and plants will all look amazing with the black windows as a backdrop.

Do You Want Quality and Choice?

While not all window manufacturers have lines with black available, Milgard does. Two of these lines are the vinyl Tin sic Series and the fiberglass Ultra Series. Both lines carry options for black exterior and interior and come with Milgard’s limited lifetime warranty.

In Conclusion

If you are having an issue with a window leak or other damages and thinking of installing new replacement windows in Anaheim, CA, consider choosing black. They are really the perfect combination of being trendy enough to know they will stick around, but not so trendy, it’s overdone. When you have black windows on your home, your house will stand out and have a style and design that few others on the block can match.

When choosing new replacement windows in Orange, CA., you will want to ensure you choose the right material so that your windows stay looking like new for as long as possible. Temperature, humidity, and normal wear and tear can all play a factor in which material you should choose. Not only does function play a role in what windows you choose, design does as well.

For example, if you want to make a statement and elevate the look of your home, black windows would be a wonderful choice. However, not all windows and window models come in black. Finding a window that has the features you want, paired with durability and quality, and also available in black can sometimes be tough to find.

Luckily, if you are a homeowner with your heart set on black windows, good news; the Milgard Ultra Series is a fiberglass window with loads of features and options and is available in four colors, one of those being called Black Bean, which is a beautiful black.

Interior/Exterior Color Options

With the Milgard Ultra Series window, you can choose to have the exterior color and the interior color match (such as both sides being black), or you can have the exterior one color (such as black) and the interior color white.

When the exterior and interior of the window are both black, the Ultra Series uses a powder coat finish. However, when the exterior and interior of the window are different colors, they are painted with a wet coat application.

Not Just Another Pretty Face

With Milgard’s Ultra Series, you are getting so much more than just a pretty black window. Since these windows are fiberglass and will stand up to hot and cold climates, they are much more resistant to warping over time.

Additionally, these windows can reduce your monthly energy bill each month as many models are energy efficient. And, with, each window has been tested for color uniformity, gloss, film thickness and chemical resistance so you can have piece of mind you are getting the best quality windows. Milgard is so certain of their craftmanship, they offer warranties on all their windows.

Hardware to Match

To make the most out of your black windows, having black hardware is crucial. This will allow any hardware to blend in and let the lines of the black window be the focal point. With the hardware being from Milgard, you can be confident that it is durable, safe, and easy to operate. You can also choose from the Positive Action Lock or the optional Cam Lock both of which are available in black.

Do black fiberglass windows fade?

Over time, any kind of window will experience some fading. This is due to a combination of factors, including exposure to the sun and other elements. However, black fiberglass windows are especially susceptible to fading because of the dark color.

There are a few things that you can do in order to minimize the amount of fading that your black fiberglass windows experience. One is to make sure that they are not placed in direct sunlight. If possible, try to position them so that they are shaded by trees or other structures during the day.

Another way to help keep your black fiberglass windows from fading is to clean them on a regular basis. Dirt and debris can absorb light, which can contribute to fading. Be sure to use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the finish on your windows.

If you do find that your black fiberglass windows are starting to fade, there are a few things that you can do to try to restore their original color. One is to clean them with a solution of one part vinegar and two parts water. This will help to remove any build-up of dirt and debris that may be causing the fading.

Another option is to use a special window cleaning solution that is designed for black fiberglass windows. These solutions usually contain UV inhibitors that can help to protect your windows from further fading.

If all else fails, you may need to replace your black fiberglass windows entirely. This should only be done as a last resort, as it can be quite expensive. However, if your windows are severely faded, it may be the only way to restore their original appearance.

Final Thoughts

There are many things to consider when choosing your new replacement windows in Orange, CA. Window function, durability, quality, and design features are all important aspects to consider. When you want the best of both function and design, the Milgard Ultra Series is a great line to check out. Being made from fiberglass will give you the durability you are after while being available in black will give your home that upscale, modern look that never goes out of style.

Drive around any neighborhood, and you will most likely see all the homes adorned with white windows. While white windows can look great on most any home, it can also look a little typical and expected. If you want your new replacement windows in Anaheim, CA. to stand out, consider black windows. With these adding style and letting your home stand out from the crowd, they are a wonderful choice for any home.

With that being said, they do have a few cons that homeowners should take into consideration before deciding. Today we are going to talk about the pros and the cons of black windows so you can decide if they are right for you and your home.

Pro: Black Windows Add Flair

There is no denying that a house with black windows makes a statement. These windows stand out and get noticed. They look beautiful in the daytime or evening and they take the design of any house up a notch.

Pro: Staying on Trend

Black windows have been around since the nineteenth century where they could be found in industrial buildings such as factories and warehouses. Since then, they have remained popular year after year and this trend doesn’t seem to be stopping. Therefore you know when you are choosing your black windows, your house will look great and on trend for years to come.

Pro: You Can Create a Frame for Your View

When you have a beautiful piece of art, a nice, sleek, black frame is wonderful for bringing attention to it. Rather than focusing on the frame, it allows you to focus on the art. The same concept works here. If you have a beautiful view you would like to draw attention to, black windows are the way to go. The black will frame your view making it a focal point as soon as you walk into the room.

Pro: Fiberglass Windows Come in Black

Many homeowners love the durability and low-maintenance upkeep that fiberglass windows provide for their homes. Luckily, window manufacturers, such as Milgard produce these fiberglass windows in many colors including black. Some window models, such as the Milgard Ultra Series have additional features including being energy efficient and coming with a lifetime warranty making them an ideal choice.

Con: They May Look Drab on a Dark House

While black windows can look amazing on a white house, if you have a darker colored home, they might look drab, or blend in where they are hardly even noticed. If you don’t plan on repainting your home anytime soon, you can still make the windows stand out by simply painting a light colored trim around them. This will help them pop and stand out.

Cons: They Look Better Bare

To get the full, dramatic effect that black windows can provide, they truly look better bare. The black frame in contrast with the interior walls creates such a wonderful contrast and design element, it’s difficult to cover that up. However, if you want more privacy, you will need to consider installing curtains, blinds or perhaps a roller shade. And even with window coverings, your black windows are still going to look amazing.

You can see there are several more pros to black windows than cons, making them a strong contender when choosing your replacement windows in Anaheim, CA. By adding black windows you are giving your home an elegant look that doesn’t seem to be going out of style anytime soon.

Do you cringe every time it starts raining because you know your windows are going to leak and allow that water in? Leaky windows can be caused by a myriad of reasons. The good news is that you might be able to fix some of these leaks yourself. Keep reading to learn what causes a leaky window and when you might need to consider installing new replacement windows in Anaheim, CA.

Why Do Windows Leak?

Most of the causes behind a leak either come from maintenance, building, or installation issues. For example, some maintenance issues that can cause leaks are from caulk being broken or damaged around the frames, no paint seal on the window molding, or cracked glazing putty. If the window wasn’t properly installed and there was improper use of window flashing or subpar material used instead of window flashing, leaks might occur.

Where is the Leak Coming From?

Determining where the leak is coming from can give you a good indication of what is causing it. If the leak is being seen near the window jamb or the window frame, the leak is most likely coming from the window itself. You may notice this in older windows since it can be a result of wear and tear from operating the window over the years.

In contrast, if you see water on the wall around, above, or below the window, this normally means the leak is somewhere in the wall and the water is running down the studs to the window. This leak could be near or further away from the location of the window.

How to Fix a Leaky Window

There are a few things you can try yourself to fix a leaky window. Some of these things include resealing and recaulking areas. For example, you could recaulk the window frame, or re-seal the glass to the gasket between the window frame and the glass.

Another thing you can try is to make sure the bottom windowsill of the frame is pitched downward to help drain the water out toward the exterior.

Finally, always make sure the windows are clean and free of insects, dirt, and debris. Check your windows and frames regularly and perform any needed maintenance.

If you have any leaks that you cannot tell where they are coming from or you are unable to fix yourself, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals and have new windows installed. Although it will be an upfront cost you may not be expecting, it will save you money in the long run from further damage the leaks may cause if they are left unattended.

Final Thoughts

Your home needs regular maintenance and service and your windows are no different. To keep your windows lasting for years to come and functioning properly, make sure to check them regularly and fix any cracks and leaks that you can, you may also consider black windows. When you notice bigger leaks, don’t wait to call in professionals to help assess the situation.

If you are getting new windows in Anaheim, CA. make sure to call Pacific Shores Windows & Doors. Their friendly staff is always happy to help answer any questions you may have and help you in any way they can.