Financial-Alpha.com - Update roof and window and make them energy efficient.

Update or Replace Windows

Do you need to update your windows now, or wait for new ones? The bottom line is that energy efficient windows are an important consideration for both new houses and older homes. Heat gain and heat loss through windows is responsible for 25%—30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.

Whether you are selecting windows for new construction or to replace existing ones, it's important to choose the most efficient windows that work best in your climate. For instance, if you live in a hot region, opting for double layered glass will save electricity while an argon gas fill will prevent heat from passing into the room should the door accidently be left open. You can read more tips here.

Upgrading your windows not only will increase the comfort in your new home, it will also reduce your energy bills.

Whether you want to reduce energy lost through your windows or improve the comfort of your home, two options are available:

  1. You should update your windows to make them more energy efficient
  2. Learn the benefits of replacing your windows.

Update Existing Windows to Improve Efficiency

Replace old windows in order to improve comfort, reduce expenses, and decrease your carbon footprint. With attractive financing options, you may only pay for the windows at the time of installation no long-term interest or commitment.

  • Replace or Upgrade Existing Windows
  • Make updates or replacements yourself. Learn how to make your own weatherstripping for double-hung windows with our DIY project!
  • Replace your window. Get bids from reliable service providers in your area and save a lot of money
  • Compare windows to storm windows or panels
  • Add solar control film
  • Add exterior shading, such as awnings, exterior blinds, or overhangs.

With the increase in operating temperature, you may want to consider updating your old A/C to a more efficient model. There are a range of efficient options available out there, with new models coming on the market quickly.

When is the best time to replace or update your Windows?

When in need of an update or replacement to your Windows, you should consider what type of windows to purchase, how would you replace them, and weather or not a new update would be a worth while investment.

You may have the option of replacing the windows in their existing frame; discuss this option with your window retailer and installer to find out if it will work for you.

You will need to decide what window features you want. Early copy of the slideshow touts Windows's moonlight, the new search bar and Cortana as highlights of the forthcoming upgrade.

  • Frame types
  • Glazing type
  • Gas fills and spacers
  • Operation types

Click the Window Types page for more information on replacement and updating windows.

Selection Process

Are you at the point where it will cost more replace your outdated windows than update them? Areors, deciding on window replacement needs can be tricky. Follow this guide for help in making that decision.

First, you should use the ENERGY STAR label to find the most efficient windows for your needs. We recommend rating windows based on the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council).

The NFRC ratings originate from the NAHB Research Center to assist in finding windows with more recent ENERGY STAR certification. Learn about how to find information about ratings as well as grades so that you are able to obtain an idea of which window is best for your situation.

Windows are necessary for a more efficient, functional home. Although you may be transitioning from a full investment in windows to new construction, The Efficient Windows Collaborative offers selections for both: replacement, as well as consultation with experts on what will best fit your needs.

  • Selection process for replacement windows
  • Selection process for windows for new construction

For more specific recommendations, download the window selection fact sheets for your state.

Then use the window selection tools for replacement windows or new construction to compare options based on your climate and home design.

Window Selection Tips

  • Look for the ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels.
  • An important consideration is the type of window you choose. Windows come in different coatings depending on where you live, but homes in colder environments should have gas-filled windows with low-E coatings and those in warm climates should use windows that reduce heat gain.
  • A window's purpose is to insulate your home from the exterior temperature. The U-Factor refers to how a window's glass transmits heat into your home in relation to solar contact. Better insulation and lower ambient temperatures will also affect your decision on window's type.
  • Consider low SHGC windows with glass that feature a heat-reflective metallic coating to reduce the heat from entering your house, especially if you live in a warmer climate.
  • Quality Windows are necessary to maximise energy efficiency in a temperate climate with cold and hot seasons.
  • Whole unit numbers more accurately reflect the energy performance of the entire product, rather than just the center of glass. Update your outdated windows to improve energy efficiency and to control costs with whole-window U-factors and SHGCs.

Learn more about energy performance ratings for windows.

Installation

Even the most energy-efficient windows must be properly installed to ensure that they function correctly. Any window installation company should provide an experienced team of professionals and follow manufacturer’s instructions. Other­wise, your window warranty may be void.

Windows are one of the most important investments you can make in a home and may be among the top cost of homeownership. They will not only improve the quality of indoor air, but also lower your energy bills by providing comfort and protection from heat, sun and other external conditions. Floor-to-ceiling windows can have a dramatic affect on interior decor with unrestricted views of upper floors and sky, while adding an expansive second story to any room you don’t already have. Whether you're

If you’re looking to video the ‘splashback,” then it makes sense to update and replace your windows with energy efficient models on offer from companies that focus on these products.

Build America offers a solution center to help homeowners find the right windows. The Building America Solution Center has a self-service library of resources with an informative Installation Guide that can be downloaded and consulted with your Certified contractor.

Is your roof leaking? Are you beginning the process of looking for a roofing contractor?

If so, one of the first things to know is how long a roofing company has been in business. But why should that matter to you?

The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has been providing high-quality roof repairs and replacements in the Nashville area since 1990. We know what it takes to ensure your roof stays leak-free for decades. When you work with us, you’ll never worry about your roof again.

So, why is it important to know how long your potential roofing contractor has been in business? Always eager to educate anyone on important information on roofing, I’m going to answer that question and more.

By the end of this article, you'll learn why you need to know how long a roofing company has been in business and 4 more things to know before hiring a contractor to take care of your leaky roof.

Why is it important to know how long a roofing contractor has been in business? Anytime you invest in roof repairs or a roof replacement, you need to know how long a roofing company has been in business in your area. But why is that important to you?

The longer a roofing company has been in the business doesn’t make them any better, it just means that they'll be around if there's a problem. For example, if you choose a newer roofing company that’s only a couple of years old, chances are their prices will be a lot cheaper.

But the problem is they don’t know how to price jobs correctly to have retained earnings at the end of the year to get them through the winter months. That's when a new roofing company will shut down.

That's not to say there aren’t good young companies in your area. However, five years from now, you want to make sure the company will still be there to take care of your roof investment.

To get the best possible roofing services, it’s crucial to hire a contractor that’s established and has a strong history in your area. I recommend hiring a roofing company that has been around for at least 10 years.

4 more things to know before hiring a roofing company You just learned why it’s important to know how long a roofing company has been in business. But is there more you need to know before hiring one?

Continue reading to learn 4 more things you need to know before hiring a roofing contractor.

1. Make sure the roofing company is local to your area When looking at potential roofing contractors, it’s crucial that you pick one local to your area. The roofing contractor must have a physical office location in your area and a local phone number. This ensures you know where to find them if you ever have a problem with your roof.

Be aware that some out of state companies come in after a big storm, undercut local roofing company prices, get the money, and move on to the next storm-hit town. These companies don’t care about local codes or if they properly install your roof.

A quality local roofing company will know what local installation codes to follow, the paperwork required, and everything else they’ll need to ensure your roof is correctly installed and in compliance with your state’s requirements.

To learn more about why you need to hire a local company, read this article on why it’s important to hire a local roofing contractor.

2. Ask how long the roofing company will stand behind their workmanship Roof warranties are in place to protect your roof investment. You’ll have a warranty from the manufacturer on your roofing materials and a warranty from your contractor on the workmanship.

You should always ask a roofing contractor what kind of warranty they offer on their workmanship. They could offer anywhere from one year, two years, three years, five years, 10 years, 25 years, or even a lifetime.

For example, a company that relies heavily on caulk will give a two-year workmanship warranty because the caulk will fail within a couple of years. However, if a roofing company really cares about how your roof is installed, they’ll provide you with a lifetime warranty.

Just be warned, warranties are only worth the paper they're written on. To learn more about your roof warranties, read this article on what roof warranties cover.

3. Get quotes from multiple local roofing companies When you get a quote to take care of your roof leak, it’s important to get a second opinion. I recommend getting a maximum of three when searching around for the right roofing contractor.

When you get multiple roof quotes, you can compare the numbers and pick the one that’s right for you. Be aware, these prices could be all over the place because no two contractors are going to quote your roof the same.

Getting multiple quotes is also a chance to see if your roof actually needs a replacement. If one contractor tries to sell you a roof, but the other two only recommend repairs, then it’s a good chance you don’t need a full replacement.

To learn more about why you should get more than one quote for your roof leak, read this article on why you should get multiple quotes for your roof replacement.

4. Do your own research before hiring a roofing company In today's digital world, there are so many ways to find a reputable roofer, plumber, carpenter, honestly anything you need. Before picking up the phone to call a roofing company, do your own research.

The main way customers do their own research is by looking at reviews. You can pull a lot of information out of reviews that'll tell you if a company does quality work.

That's not to say all the reviews you read are accurate. Some people will go to the extreme one way or the other. However, if a company stands behind their work, interacts positively with customers, and does things the right way, then more than likely it will show in their reviews.

Another great way to find a roofing contractor is looking at Nextdoor. Here, you’ll be able to ask your neighbors about roofing contractors they recommend and why. The great thing about Nextdoor is only people in your neighborhood can respond and give you recommendations.

Just make sure the people recommending the contractor’s don’t work for the potential roofing company.

How to hire a great roofing company Now you know why you need to know how long a roofing company has been in business. Remember, the longer a roofing company has been in the business doesn’t make them any better, it just means that they'll be around if there's a problem.

Asking how long a roofing company has been in business is just one question to ask. However, there’s still more you need to ask your potential roofing contractor before signing on the dotted line of your roofing estimate.

But what are these questions? Luckily, we’ve got you covered.

The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has been providing high-quality roofing services to the residents of Nashville since 1990. Our workmanship ensures you get a roof that lasts for decades. That’s why we offer a lifetime warranty.