Screening is usually made from either fiberglass or aluminum. Aluminum is stronger than fiberglass, but it is subject to corrosion and harder to install. Make sure to use the same material and color as your other screens unless you are replacing all of your screens.  You can buy the screening in different lengths, either by the foot or in rolls. Purchase enough screening to cover the entire screen frame at with at least a 2-inch overhang on all sides.

The screen is held in place by a spline pressed into a groove in metal frames. Most of the splines are made from vinyl or rubber. As long as vinyl or rubber is still in good condition, you can reuse it. If the spline is dry or cracked, you will need to replace it. When replacing the spline, make sure you bring it with you to buy the new one. That way you can ensure a good fit.

If you have a wood frame, the screen is stapled directly to the frame it’s self. Use molding to cover the staples and the edges of the screen so it will have a neat appearance.

When the time comes to upgrade your windows, consider more than just double or triple pane glass. The screens you select can have a big impact on efficiency too. In fact, solar window screens have the potential to save you a significant percentage on your energy bills. The initial price is not much more than what you would pay for regular screens. This means you will recoup your costs quickly – unlike with other home improvements that can take years to show an ROI.

Rooms equipped with these screens will be much cooler in the summer than ever before. Solar window screens can save you money in the winter too. Radiated heat loss is significantly reduced because the special coating on these screens reflects heat back inside your home. That means solar screens are a good investment no matter what climate you live in.

Additional Perks

Most UV light is blocked by these screens. This means your interior furnishings such as carpet and drapes are protected from fading. Sunlight will no longer cause an annoying glare on your TV or computer monitors either.

This type of screen is also designed to enhance your privacy. The protective effect is strongest during the day. Obviously, if you stand in front of a “privacy” window screen at night with a light source behind you, a silhouette will still be visible.

Are you concerned that dark colored screens won’t look attractive against the exterior of your home? Don’t worry. There are now “solar” materials available in neutral colors that look like regular screens.

Most people have experienced trouble when opening up their windows due to swollen wood or painted channels.  Or, their windows won’t stay open due to a broken sash cord or chain. Regular maintenance is very important to avoid these problems.  Here is how to adjust your windows:

1. For Spring Loaded Windows

Make sure you have an adjustment screw on the track insert. Adjust both sides until the window is balanced and open and closes smoothly.

2. Spring Lift Windows

These replacement windows operate with the help of a spring-loaded lift rod that’s inside a metal tube.  To adjust these type of windows unscrew the top end of the tube from the jamb. then twist the tube to change the spring tension: if you turn it clockwise you will get more lifting power; and counterclockwise for less.  Keep a good strong grip on the tube so you don’t unwind it.

Hope this helps with you fussy windows…

In our previous post, we explored the things you need to consider when you are shopping for replacement windows. Once you have investigated all your options by comparing products and prices from several dealers, here’s the next step:

Determine whether you will install the windows yourself or have an expert do this for you. Hiring a contractor to perform this task is more expensive; but a professional will usually complete installation correctly and in a timely manner. This can put your mind at ease – and you won’t have to worry about purchasing all the tools necessary to do the job.

Gather recommendations from organizations (such as the Better Business Bureau) that collect/publish information on local suppliers and contractors. That way, you will be able to select a company that follows industry standards and best practices. Don’t simply hire a handyman to handle this type of job. If you do and something goes wrong, you might have to go to small claims court to resolve the issue.

Safety & Liability

Whenever workers are using tools or ladders on your property, there is the potential for a claim against your homeowner’s policy. Before allowing work to begin, ask to see the contractor’s business license and general liability/workers’ compensation insurance. If any of the contractor’s employees are injured while installing your replacement windows, they will need to file a claim with their employer – not against you.

Warranty & Maintenance

One of the most important aspects of window replacement is the warranty. Understand exactly what components and time period your warranty covers. With a contractor, the workmanship and installation should be covered in addition to the product. Retain a copy of these warranties for your records. During the installation process, ask the contractor to show you how to perform required maintenance to keep your windows in good condition over the years.

Windows generally last for many years. But, like any other part of your home exterior, they will eventually require maintenance. You can often adjust or repair seals, locking mechanisms, glass, woodwork, vinyl, screens, and other components.

However, as a homeowner you know it is time to buy replacement windows when yours:

• Are beyond repair or not cost effective to repair
• Feature a design or material that is not energy efficient
• Don’t fit the style you want for your home

Materials, Sizing, & Efficiency

Your final purchasing decision will have consequences for years to come, perhaps decades. Invest in high quality materials (other than wood) that will withstand the long-term wear and tear of normal use. Most windows on the market today offer superior performance compared to those typically installed a few decades ago.

Standard sizes today are not necessarily the same as those sold years ago. To make sure your new windows will fit properly, use a tape measure to accurately assess what sizes you need. Then, double check to make sure! You may have to customize the window to fit the space or change the dimensions of the opening. This will increase the material and labor costs necessary to get the job done properly.

Energy savings from high efficiency triple-pane glass windows may offset some of the upfront costs for replacement over the first few years of use. This often makes it reasonable to upgrade – even if there is no apparent damage to your current windows. Check the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council), Energy Star, and Consumer ratings for more information on this critical topic.

A bay window with a window seat is a lovely alternative to an outdoor bench. Bay (or bow) windows curve outward and generally feature multiple panes that overlook your back yard. This makes a great lookout for parents who need to keep an eye on their kids playing outside. You can also use this as a bird watching station or a place to soak up some warm sunlight and read a book without battling mosquitoes.

4 essentials you will need to create the perfect bay window seat:

Sheer Curtains – This isn’t the place for louvered blinds. You need to be able to sweep your window treatment to the side so you have a clear, unobstructed view. For a romantic effect, use ribbon tie backs. 

Sturdy Seating – Have this installed by a professional or get a kit to DIY. Don’t try to create a window seat from scratch unless you have fairly advanced carpentry skills. Otherwise, it may collapse at an inopportune moment. Add cushions for greater comfort.

Shelves – You need a place to set your coffee cup and plenty of room for your favorite books. Make these shelves the same height as the seat to keep the nook from feeling cramped. Choose wood with a light finish or paint your shelves to offer a bright contrast to the walls as an accent.

Squeegee – Nothing ruins your view more quickly than smudges and grimy handprints. If your bay window goes from floor to ceiling, invest in a long handled squeegee to keep it sparkling.

Double or dual paned windows are also classified as (IG) insulating glass windows. These windows are far better in insulating than old single pane windows. They are also more cost effective that triple paned windows. A dual pane window can increase the R-value approximately 2 to 2 ½ times over that of a single pane to a value of 1.5-2.0. Deciding on the right windows depends a lot on the weather conditions were you live. If you live in warmer climate year round, air filled aluminum window frames should work just fine.

In colder weather areas, a gas filled double/dual pane window in wood or vinyl would be ideal. A quality dual paned window will also greatly reduce your energy cost. Double/ dual paned windows have better insulation, noise reduction, and easier to clean. The inside of the frames are protected from the elements which keeps them spotless. Dual/double paned windows also protect items in the house from UV damage.

The UV coatings on double/dual paned windows help protect your floors, rugs, and photos. Double paned windows are made up of two facing glass panels set in a frame, separated by a small space from half an inch to three-quarters of an inch wide. The gap might be filled with air or nontoxic gasses like argon or the more expensive krypton in order to improve insulation. The dual lights of glass that make up the window unit are held apart around the perimeter edge on the inside by a spacer. A spacer is made of either aluminum or stainless, coated, or galvanized steel.

To avoid fogging from moisture, the spacer contains an absorbent substance called a desiccant. Decorative frames might also be inserted between the glass panels to give the impression of individual windowpanes.