Installing exterior and interior storm windows is one way to present this heat loss. Storm windows can increase the efficiency of old single-paned windows by up to 70 percent, as they reduce air leakage and slow heat movement. Further insulation is added by the extra air space between the existing window and the storm window. Storm windows can be installed on either the interior or the exterior side of a window. Which is better? It all depends on an individual’s needs and perspective.

Interior Storm Windows

Interior storm windows are much more attractive than their exterior counterparts. Interior storm windows are designed to enhance most interior designs. They are almost always made with acrylic, which is both lighter and better at resisting shattering than glass. On the downside, however, acrylic is very easily scratched, not often fireproof, and it requires special treatment in cleaning.

Many people consider storm windows to be a cool climate accessory, but they can also be helpful in homes located in warmer climates. Wherever a home is located, studies have shown that after interior storm windows are installed in a home, the home’s energy savings increase as much as 30 percent. These homes have also been shown to reduce interior window condensation.

Interior windows attach by clipping onto the existing main window, so they are much easier to remove and install than exterior storm windows. They are also less expensive because they do not have to hold up as well to adverse conditions as exterior storm windows. The holes by clipping are a little less energy-efficient, but they are essential to making sure that the window fits properly. However, interior storm windows are more airtight than exterior windows because they are made with weather-stripping. This is not the only difference between the two, as will be shown below.

Exterior Storm Windows

Exterior storm windows are a more economical alternative, at about one fourth of the cost of replacing old windows. They can also help protect windows from being damaged by rain or snow. This can especially benefit older wooden windows. Because installation is permanent, this type of window will provide year-round protection.

One major benefit of storm windows on the exterior is that they have a “triple-track” for holding one screen and two glass sashes. This means that, unlike interior storm windows, exterior windows can be opened. Although interior storm windows can be used all year, they will need to be removed to open the window.

One disadvantage to exterior windows is that weather-stripping cannot be used with them because water vapor or rain might drip into it and cause moisture problems. Furthermore, storm windows on the exterior have bottom “weep holes” to allow draining of the moisture that collects between the main and storm windows.

No matter what storm window style is chosen, it will be necessary to ensure that they are installed the right way and that they fit snugly. In order to ensure the best fit, it is important to consult a professional who can take accurate measurements of each window in the home. Homeowners should contact the professionals at United Home Experts to get more advice concerning which storm window is best for their homes.

The post Exterior vs. Interior Storm Windows appeared first on Marvin.

There was a time when a window was merely a sheet of glass, held in place by a wooden frame.  Those days are long gone, especially here in the often harsh climate of Framingham, Massachusetts. Today, choosing and installing replacement windows in Framingham, MA, requires many years of experience of installing windows of all sorts of shapes and sizes.

Window technology has been elevated to a science, and it behooves a homeowner to seek out professional advice and council before picking out replacement window companies in Framingham.  A homeowner’s first course of action should be to talk to someone with years of experience here in Framingham, hundreds of satisfied customers, and who is intimately familiar with Framingham building codes and required permits for installing replacement windows in Framingham, MA.

The experts at United Home Experts have, perhaps, more experience than anyone in the area when it comes to installing windows.  They also install several different brands of windows so they are not beholden to any one company and can therefore answer all questions with complete honesty and only recommend windows that are absolutely right for a particular job and budget.

Another benefit to using a company like United Home Experts is there is no need for a general contractor, as UHE acts as its own contractor.  This cuts down on an unnecessary expense, as well as cutting out one layer of unnecessary confusion in what can easily become a daisy-chain of people passing information and orders one to another.

The simpler the process, the quicker the job progresses, and the less chance for miscommunication and costly mistakes.

Of course, there are those homeowners who believe they can install their own windows.  Few can, but even those homeowners who have some handyman skills should consider that today’s energy-efficient windows may require more than simply a hammer and a level for proper installation.  Keep in mind that self-installed windows may not carry the same warranty as windows economically installed by professionals such as those at United Home Experts.

There are also many more choices in windows today than there were even ten years ago.  Professional installers keep up with the changes and know which windows will best serve the customer’s needs. Wood frames, metal, vinyl?  Which is best for any particular home?  Which fits into the homeowner’s budget?

Keep in mind, too, that many window companies in   Framingham only carry one or two different window manufacturers. When those installers recommend a certain brand of window, which brand are they likely to recommend?  United Home Experts installs windows of many kinds, so when they recommend a window, the homeowner can feel confident that the recommended window is truly the best window for their particular needs – and not just whatever other contractors are able grow on their profits.

What about quality, durability, and warranty?  It takes a real professional to understand these attributes.  Many window warranties are riddled with exclusions which can make the warranty virtually worthless, particularly if homeowners self-install their new windows.  Again, it takes a professional with years of experience to understand which warranties are best and how long various windows typically last under the exact conditions of Framingham and its vicinity.

Then there are energy ratings.  The average homeowner may not know what an Energy Star rating of 65 means – but a professional does.  Windows today come with several different ratings.  There is also the matter of local regulations and permits.  Only a company like United Home Experts, which has been installing windows in the Framingham area for many years, would be familiar with all the laws, rules, regulations and permits necessary for the installation of replacement windows.

The bottom line is, there are so many issues to consider when choosing replacement windows for any home that even the most renovation-savvy homeowners would do well to seek professional assistance. The window experts at United Home Experts offer an absolutely free consultation, something every homeowner can take advantage of to ensure that their new windows are everything they hope for.

Author: Emilio Bonilla

The post Installing Replacement Windows in Framingham, MA appeared first on Marvin.

Parts of a house that are not covered by the roof typically need more frequent replacement than those areas protected by the roof.  Thus, replacement bay windows or bow windows are more common than other types of windows.  There are several things to look for in a professional installer, such as United Home Experts, to ensure that they can do a proper job as well as provide sufficient coverage in terms of warranty or insurance.

Why This Type of Window is Hard to Install

Bay windows and bow windows (a type of curved bay window) are heavy because of the projecting frame and several panels.  This additional weight means that adequate support is needed so the window does not sag after installation, creating an unsafe and unsightly situation.  The unique characteristics of these windows and the complexity of installing them means that it will take longer to complete. These extra structural considerations make it absolutely essential to have installation performed by a qualified professional.

United Home Experts has done 1000′s of window job and have the experience of installing a countless number of bay and bow windows, in which experience is crucial.  Replacement bow windows or bay windows that are not properly installed pose hazards to residents and passersby.  Faulty installation will result in yet another replacement of the window, which is expensive and time consuming.

What Do Trained and Qualified Installers Offer

People who have been certified by major manufacturers to install bay windows can provide the expertise required to complete the job quickly and efficiently.  They are intimately familiar with the challenges these windows present and have experience in dealing with them.

Contractors who are recognized distributors of many window brands can also quote more competitive prices than the usual retailer.  Additionally, they can provide better warranty coverage because these manufacturers are certain that they have the equipment and the skill to do the job right.  Their in-depth knowledge allows them to help provide the homeowner with a replacement window option that best matches his or her vision in terms of style, quality and price.  They know the strengths and weaknesses of the products they install.  This makes them an excellent source of advice during the planning phase of the project.

The United Home Experts’ Advantage

A strong track record of satisfied homeowners is, for many, the best evidence that a contractor indeed has the expertise to accomplish challenging bay window replacement projects.  United Home Experts’ many satisfied clients in the New England area can attest to this, and pictures of their completed projects can be found on their website.

The company has been certified by Marvin, the manufacturer of replacement bow windows and bay windows. UHE is also covered by the requisite insurances that protect not only their workers but also their clients.  This makes them one of the top replacement window installers in the New England area.

Author: Emilio Bonilla

The post Replacement Bay Windows appeared first on Marvin.

In choosing the perfect window for your Bolton MA home it’s most effective to take into consideration aesthetics, energy efficiency, and strength. Between Marvin and Integrity from Marvin Windows there is a great way for you and your home. Between the two window brands there are virtually endless variations of style, configuration, color, and hardware.

We encourage you to give consideration to options other than just vinyl replacement windows. You might have spoken with a vinyl window installer and they assured you vinyl windows are the right option. Before you make a selection about which windows to install, first have a consultation with us! We’re a window company servicing Bolton, MA

The post Window Contractors in Bolton Ma appeared first on Marvin.

In selecting the perfect window for your Brighton Massachusetts home it’s best to look at aesthetics, energy efficiency, and stability. Between Marvin and Integrity from Marvin Windows there is a great way for you and your home. Between the two window brands there are virtually endless variations of style, configuration, color, and hardware.

We motivate you to consider options other than just vinyl replacement windows. You could have spoken to a vinyl window installer and they assured you vinyl windows are the most beneficial option. Before you make a choice about which windows to install, first have a consultation with us! We’re a window company servicing Brighton, MA

The post Window Contractors in Brighton Ma appeared first on Marvin.

In selecting the perfect window for your Boylston MA home it’s most effective to look at aesthetics, energy efficiency, and durability. Between Marvin and Integrity from Marvin Windows there is a good way for you and your home. Between the two window brands there are virtually endless variations of style, configuration, color, and hardware.

We motivate you to think about options besides just vinyl replacement windows. You may have spoken with a vinyl window contractor and they assured you vinyl windows are the best option. Before you make a selection about which windows to install, first schedule a consultation with us! We’re a window company servicing Boylston, MA

The post Window Contractors in Boylston Ma appeared first on Marvin.

In picking the perfect window for your Boston MA home it’s most effective to take into consideration aesthetics, energy efficiency, and strength. Between Marvin and Integrity from Marvin Windows there is a perfect way for you and your home. Between the two window brands there are virtually endless combinations of style, configuration, color, and hardware.

We motivate you to think about options other than just vinyl replacement windows. You may have spoken to a vinyl window contractor and they assured you vinyl windows are the right option. Before you make a decision about which windows to install, first have a consultation with us! We’re a window company servicing Boston, MA

The post Window Contractors in Boston Ma appeared first on Marvin.

In choosing the perfect window for your Bolton MA home it’s most effective to take into consideration aesthetics, energy efficiency, and strength. Between Marvin and Integrity from Marvin Windows there is a great way for you and your home. Between the two window brands there are virtually endless variations of style, configuration, color, and hardware.

We encourage you to give consideration to options other than just vinyl replacement windows. You might have spoken with a vinyl window installer and they assured you vinyl windows are the right option. Before you make a selection about which windows to install, first have a consultation with us! We’re a window company servicing Bolton, MA

The post Window Contractors in Bolton Ma appeared first on Marvin.

In picking the perfect window for your Boxborough Mass home it’s best to consider aesthetics, energy efficiency, and stability. Between Marvin and Integrity from Marvin Windows there is a great option for you and your home. Between the two window brands there are virtually endless combinations of style, configuration, color, and hardware.

We encourage you to consider options besides just vinyl replacement windows. You could have spoken to a vinyl window installer and they assured you vinyl windows are the right option. Before you make a selection about which windows to install, first schedule a consultation with us! We’re a window company servicing Boxborough, MA

The post Window Contractors in Boxborough Ma appeared first on Marvin.