Sash Window Repairs Tips and Guidelines

Sash windows are made up of one or two panels, which also serve as the frame that holds the pane of glass. The panels in these types of windows are moveable and often slide vertically or horizontally.

The design of these windows was first introduced by an English inventor, Robert Hooke, and the first ones are believed to be installed in late 16th Century. Such window designs are still used in most parts of the United Kingdom, as they represent the period architecture and culture. Even though, this window style seems practical and historical, it requires regular maintenance and repairs for proper functioning.

Sash window repairs is very important to keep the windows in proper shape and function. Sometimes, sash window repairs may not require any professional help and can be done by capable individuals who have sufficient knowledge and the right set of tools.

Firstly, to start off with the window repair, you will need to check the mechanism of the sash windows. There are mainly three types of mechanisms:

single hung sash,

double hung sash

and horizontal sliding sash.

After checking the window mechanism, the next step is to gather the right set of tools. The tools that would be required for sash window repairs typically include

lubricants,

utility knife,

stiff puffy knife,

hammer,

rope

and screwdriver.

To start the repair job, you will need to remove the window and window casing very carefully in order to open up the panel cover.

When panel cover is open, the sash cord, the weight and the pulley will become visible. Next step is to lubricate and clean the pulleys. After, lubricating next process is to replace the old cord with new one as the cord gets frayed over time.

Then the weights need to be secured, which is done by tieing a knot at the end of each sash cord. After this, you will need to put back the weights in the jamb and to slide back into the panel.

At this step the repair and the maintenance is done, and now window should be checked for its proper functioning.

If, after following all these steps, window still seems jammed, then the last option is considering replacement wooden windows as the last resort.

Replacement wooden windows can be done by hiring professionals. However, people who do not want to spend their money on professional can also replace them on their own. Just like repairing the wooden sash windows, the process replacing the wooden sash windows just need to follow some simple steps for the right people.…

Choosing A Good Window And Glass Installer

Choosing a reputable window and glass installer can be a very difficult thing for most homeowners. Depending on the area that you live in, there can literally be hundreds of window businesses offering their services. The first thing that every homeowner should consider is the length of time that the business has been in business. Window installers that have been in business for many years often have many references to combine with their years of experience. However, businesses that have not been in business very long may lack the references and experience, but they may make up for it with lower installation costs and other things.

There are also other things to look out for when selecting a window installer. Most reputable glass installers have websites that showcase their services. Their websites should list all of their contact information and should include their telephone number and other pertinent information. Most reputable installers should also have references, and they will also provide their references if you request them. It is also important to check the local directory websites to make sure that the window installer that you choose to do business with is listed in the directory. Most local directory websites also feature a ratings system for the businesses that are listed, giving a homeowner a chance to see what other people think about their services.

Most window and glass installers are also listed on business referral websites such as the BBB. When looking at websites such as the BBB, it is important to remember that the businesses that are listed oftentimes pay to be listed, and they also pay to have good rating points. Another thing to consider when selecting a window and glass installer is the price. It is very important to price the job from multiple installers, because that gives you a chance to compare prices. However, it is important to remember that shopping for the lowest prices doesn’t always guarantee good service. Finally, the most important thing to look out for when choosing a window and glass installer is their credentials. Most window and glass installers are licensed, bonded and insured, to protect themselves and the homeowner. Choosing a reputable window and glass installer can be challenging and overwhelming, however taking the necessary steps before making that choice will ultimately benefit the homeowner saving them time and money, and it guarantees that they will get their windows fixed by quality companies.…

How Important Is to Get Window Glass Replacement Contractor

You’ve been putting it off, but you just can’t any longer: it’s time to replace your windows or maybe it’s time to have new storm windows fitted and built. Either way, it’s most prudent to find a highly experienced contractor to do any sort of home glass repair.

First things first-ask how long the company has been in business. When it comes to residential glass replacement, there can be a big difference between two years in business and ten. With a more experienced contractor, you’ll likely get more solid estimates, because they’ve sorted out their own overhead and costs and are able to accurately estimate how much a given project will cost.

Once you’ve found a company that’s been around awhile, ask about their crews. Find out whether they’re licensed. Ask what the percentage of apprentice to experienced crew members is. You want a crew that has seen everything-they know how to deal with the unexpected situations that tend to come up on a project. No two home glass repair projects will be alike, so having someone who knows how to work around unusual construction can be a huge benefit.

Check references and ask around to see who among your family and friends has had any window glass replacement work done. Were they satisfied with the work that was done? What about the cost? Would they recommend the same company to do your work? Often, word of mouth is the best salesperson a company can have.

If you’re fortunate enough to have found a few contractors who seem to have similar levels of experience and all check out with good references, ask for estimates from each. Residential glass replacement contractors are accustomed to quoting projects. As the homeowner, your job is to make sure you’re giving project details clearly and concisely, so your estimates will be accurate and comparable. Your contractors need to know precisely what you want in order to give you an accurate breakdown of costs.

In addition to getting cost estimates, do a rundown on each contractor’s turnaround time as well as their warranty. They’re not all created equal and you should know how labor and materials are warranties before you sign off for them to begin your work.

Once you’ve got your new pane or new windows, you’ll be able to reap the rewards in energy efficiency and comfort within your home. No more layering on sweaters every winter in an effort to keep warm, and no blasting yourself with fans in the summer. Finally your windows will be doing what they’re supposed to do!…

Window Coverings and Shades and Blinds – Oh My!

Window blinds and shades have made great strides in the last couple decades. Whilst they are basically coverings for windows which are ordinarily fastened to the interior side of windows, they have come to be a great deal more. They help with the visual design of a room, deliver light control, insulation or energy efficiency, level of privacy, and views on demand.

You will discover an ever growing quantity of window coverings on the market today.

Venetian window blinds feature horizontal slats, one above the other. They are suspended by means of strips of fabric referred to as tapes, or by cords, by which all slats in unison may be rotated through nearly 180 degrees. Through varying the rotation, the slats can be adjusted to many angles to regulate light.

There are also lift cords passing through slots inside each slat. Any time these cords are pulled, the bottom part of the blind moves upwards resulting in the lowest slats to push the underside of the next highest slat as the blind is raised.

Venetian window shades are often times made of metal or plastic; wooden slats are sometimes used however these are usually categorised as wood blinds or bamboo blinds. The design of the slats can be curved, flat, or even elliptical.

Mini blinds are Venetian blinds using very narrow slats, about 1″ wide (usually 25 millimeters wide). Micro blinds have 1/2″ wide slats (usually 12 mm wide).

Faux or vinyl mini blinds are actually made out of PVC (poly vinyl chloride plastic). The slat’s surface area may be smooth or else embossed with a wood grain. Once embossed with a wood grain, they are known as faux wood blinds. Today there’s a wide color selection as well as different textures to select from.

PVC or faux blinds are very durable, UV resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean. They are an excellent option for damp areas such as kitchen areas and bathrooms. The main drawback with faux blinds is the weight of the slats. PVC slats are heavier than both wood and composite slats and may also make raising the blinds a difficult task. In addition, they tend to bow whenever utilized on a large window.

Composite blinds are made of a combination of wood products together with polymers. They are durable as well as economical, but generally have a “plastic” look and feel to them.

Similar to PVC, the color selection nowadays is amazingly good, with many different wood tone and stain colors available. They have characteristics very much like PVC as well as faux, and tend to be some of the very best available.

Wood window blinds are actually Venetian blinds, but are made 100% from wood. They will function in the same way that Venetian window shades work.

If you are planning to match a cabinet or trim stain, wood window blinds are your best option. Wood blinds will be among the best, although they are also …

How to Fix Broken Glass Panes

Windows are made to provide light during the day and to see through them. This is made possible by glass panes fixed on there framework. They are available in clear sheet, frosted or in simple terms those that are see through and those that are not. Usually glass for lavatories or wash rooms are frosted while for other rooms unless by architectural design are fixed as clear sheets.

When the glass panes are shattered or broken the process of removing them sometimes is delicate. This is because of the danger of being cut or breaking the replacement. The pane should first be identified and more so by the room it is to be fixed. Most department stores or hard wares stocking glass will sell with the putty to fix back if the pane was fixed by putty. Panes are fixed onto frames using rubber, putty or timber beading. This are fixed to the window frame or door frame to hold the glass.

The glass pane should be removed only after a replacement is ready. Start by removing the putty using a scrapper and clear it off the frame. Take the new sheet of glass which has been measured to fit the frame space. Note that before fitting it, place some putty on the frame. This is for the glass to sit on instead of directly onto the frame. Squeeze the pane on the edge firmly round with the scrapper handle so that the putty spreads evenly behind it.

Take more putty and line it round the glass pane at angle of at least forty five degrees to weather off any arising dust or water. Repeat the process again until the putty is about twenty millimeters thick round the glass and scrap off any excess putty. Take a clean clothe with petroleum and clean the pane. Ensure that the putty dries for about three to seven days before applying any paint which matches the rest of the window frame.…

Painting Your Wood Sash Windows

Wood sash windows can be a real graceful addition to your homes, especially if you have had all of your furniture and drapes revamped to accommodate the same. Polishing and painting the wood window frames can also be a great way to kick start the interior decor overhaul you always coveted at your home.

However, painting your wood sash window frames is not as easy as you would have thought it would be. In fact, there are so many intricate details about going about the same that an amateur may well damage the whole frame rather than embellishing it. So you need to keep some points in mind while trying to paint your timber window frames as well as doors that need a color or polish rehash!

Here are some of those tips that will help you keep the paint from smearing out the awesomeness of your window frames –

Clean the Palette First: Have your palette, i.e. the window frame, cleaned of any debris or protruding edges or potholes first. Even though these will not obstruct a smooth painting job from a professional, having them cleaned and rough edges smoothened out makes for a much better finish than expected. And the paint job makes your wood sash window look brand new – just as you would have wanted.

Match the Set : The ambiance of the room as well as the furniture and drapes all have an important part to play in the paint job. This is because unless you have the colors matched with the surroundings, you will never have a regal wood window in your home ever!

Sober Colors Work Better : Again, make sure that the paint colors are sober and not too tangy for your taste. For instance, in a room that has black and brown furniture and heavy drapery, using colors like fluorescent orange or bright yellow might provide a jarring impact on the eye. And contemporary fashion or not, a wood window paint needs to be in good taste.

Painters’ Tape: Use painter’s tape or pencil markers to demarcate paint areas. Remember not to use them too hard or in opulent strokes. For once the paint is done, these might be harder to etch off the windows – and you might have to do it all over once again as a consequence.

However, apart from all of these tips, what you really need to keep in mind is the fact that you need to employ professional wood sash window painters to complete the job of adding clinical colors to your interior decor. For amateur or novice attempts at painting, especially timber windows and doors can completely kill the purpose, even if for the minutest of errors.

Now choosing a professional firm that provide maintenance and paint jobs on bespoke or ready-to-install wooden windows is a different story altogether. To cut a long story short, you need to invest time in research and client verification before you finally hire …

The Benefits Of Window Repairs To Your Home

There is more to having windows in your home than simply looking good. The appearance of your windows is important, given that they can make your home look very well and can add to its marketability should you ever decide to sell.

However your windows have to perform properly otherwise they will be costing you money. Properly insulated windows allow light into the property but do not allow heat that has been built up in the home to escape. Given that it costs a lot to heat a room, it is imperative that this heat is not lost through badly insulated windows or doors.

If your windows are showing signs of wear and tear it might be wise to consider window repairs or even replacement. This may involve simply window glass repair – that being the removal of your existing glazing and the installation of a more specialist glass that will conform better to your individual needs.

An example of this would be to install tinted glass. This would cut down the glare in your home and if you have a room in your home that suffers from the suns glare this could be an attractive option for you to consider.

A more expensive option is the removal of the entire window unit and its replacement with a more energy efficient window unit such as a uPVC double glazed window.

Some homeowners shy away from such an action as they consider the purchase cost of these windows to be excessive. However what they do not realize is that their existing windows are costing them money. Inefficient windows cause the homeowner to have to spend more and more on heating fuels in order to maintain the temperature of the room in the winter.

Not only do draught-free windows cost less but they create a more comfortable home. This cost saving applies to the summertime as well as to the colder months, as trying to keep a home cool by using air conditioning can also be a costly business.

Most homeowners that have taken steps to improve the energy efficiency of their homes either through window repairs or through window glass repair claim that after a year they can see a return on their investment. As a lot of heat is lost through under-performing windows and doors these are areas that homeowners should look to first when they feel that their home is not retaining its heat or that their heating bills are too high.…

How To Choose The Right Shade For Auto Window Tinting?

It is good idea to get the car windows tinted as there are many benefits in dark windows and if you have decided to get the car windows tinted, be patient and check few things before installing the dark windows because tint can be expensive so you can’t change the shade again and again. So before selecting the shade you should see some points.

there is no doubt that tinted glass gives privacy and protection from the sun but there are some areas where dark windows are not permitted and it is illegal to have too dark shade. So you must keep this thing in mind and check your area’s rules and regulations before installing the dark shade, for example limousine tint is not legal in many areas. The widow tint company can tell you that which shade is legal in your area

Some people just get inspired by seeing a poster or their neighbor’s tinted glass and want the same shade for their car with out noticing their car color. You should see your car color and get the shade which goes with it. Mirror tint looks nice in black or silver car. If your car is red in color then you should prefer black shades because black shades highlight the red color in the car. You can see the variety of different shades in the company from where you want to install them and select which suits our car.

You can have the option of a getting a strip on the top of your windshield that matches shade on the rest of the car. This strip works like a sun shade that protects the eyes of the driver form the sunlight while driving. It looks nice on sports cars and gives a sport look to an ordinary car. So if you are interested in sports cars, you can make your car look like a sports car by having this kind of strip.

You can get colored tints if you want to have a fancy look for your car. If your car is yellow in color, try to have slight yellow tint for window to make it look fancier. You can get these windows customized from the tint company and get your window tint of your own choice if you have a different idea.

So before installing tinted windows, it is better to check these points to make your car the perfect one.…

Winter Windshield Woes – Seven Ways to Cope With Cold Weather Damage to Auto Glass

Originally, cars did not even have windshields and people used goggles as their only protection against insects, bad weather and road debris. And would you believe that the first wind screens were made of plate glass that could shatter into dangerously sharp pieces when broken? Auto glass is now laminated or tempered and treated for strength and impact resistance, and its installation has come a long way since the Model T.

Your windshield glass today is far more than just a screen for protection from the weather and flying debris. It must also keep you and your passengers from being thrown in the event of a collision. Weather is a double edged sword because it is the reason we got windshields for our cars in the first place, but remains one of the biggest threats to their stability. Here are ways to cope with the potential for cold weather damage to auto glass:

Avoid Stress

When the weather outside is frightful, it can bring additional stress to auto glass. And if your vehicle is exposed to the elements for long periods of time, the stress can be magnified, particularly if there are any small damaged areas. Taking care of little problems now and preparing for plunges in winter temperatures will help to ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. And whether you need windshield replacement or windshield repair you need to look for the most qualified auto glass shop to do the job.

Prepare Ahead for Snow and Ice

When it’s cold outside and especially after every snow, auto repair shops see a continuous influx of wounded windshields and car window repair becomes big business. This is because car owners use spatulas, screwdrivers, chisels and anything else they can think of to get rid of troublesome ice accumulations.

One of the first things you can do for protection is to get a good scraper and put it in your car before the first snow. In other words, plan to buy one before winter sets in and while scrapers are still in plentiful stock at your favorite auto supply center.

Don’t Turn on the Defroster!

If your icy windshield has a chip and you decide to turn on the defroster (or worse yet, pour hot water on it), remember the practice can trigger a chip to crack into a wider fissure and cause more costly damage.

Fix That Chip

If you are not sure your little chip is serious enough for repair, it probably is. The tiniest one can quickly escalate into a real problem with even subtle fluctuations in the weather. In cold weather especially, windshields tend to imperceptibly bend into more concave shapes. Combined with the new pressure inherent in making tougher glass with high density, this can result in a serious crack and the need for total glass replacement. Gambling for time is just that – gambling. Now is really the …

Looking For A Good Window and Door Software Package?

Window and door software is an incredibly beneficial addition to the joinery industry and if you are searching for a good computer program then there are features you should look out for. Those who are in the fenestration business know exactly what to look out for. There is state of the art computer applications that helps you to correctly estimate the designing and manufacturing cost of projects. Efficient and cost effective design soft ware is one way to retain the big clients so you will easily find computer program offering this feature. You need to find an application that includes the ability to do accurate cost analysis, prepare quotations and calculate the production measures before you start to assemble things.

The mark of a good computer program should cater completely to your most complex business needs. The growing intricacy of today’s market needs can make manufacturing operations relatively time consuming and even the smaller mistakes can cause large losses in terms of money and material. That is why it is essential you find applications that does the job perfectly. A good window and door software package should include all the best features that the market and industry demand today. The most basic and typical of features include the cost analysis, quotation, and calculation of production means. It should also be able to ensure optimum use of expensive materials so you do not waste resources.

Many years of research have caused the leading window and door computer program companies to come up with premium application programs. The computer program will allow you to calculate labour cost and prepare quotations for end clients. This will increase performance and quality many times over which means you save time and money. The changes in consumer demand patterns mean the features of a window and door application package are constantly changing also. The features are always improving to ensure clients get the best result possible. You need to search around at the packages available to find the features that provide you solutions for your business needs, giving you the best of quality. Many computer program packages will give you the opportunity to choose the features you think are essential to the success of your business. The customization of products is an excellent feature that has propelled the computer program industry forward in terms of quality results. Good designing is absolutely essential and the right features in a computer aided design package will certainly help your business immeasurably.…

Window Cleaning Tips for Homeowners

Window cleaning isn’t always fun, but it needs to get done. This is something that only needs to be done once or twice a year, depending on the area that you live in and the climate that your house is exposed to. Take the time to pick a good day to work, get the right materials, and in no time, you will be done and ready to move onto a new project.

Choose a Good Work Day

When it comes to window cleaning, you want to pick a day when the sun isn’t shining directly on your home. Cloudy days are best, however, you don’t want to be working out in the rain. When there is a little shade, you get a little more time to work before the sun dries up the excess water and cleaning supplies, leaving spots and blemishes.

For you, this can make the work a little easier. If the sun isn’t shining, there is a good chance that the weather is going to be nice and you aren’t going to be outside sweating while you work on the house. If you are going to get the kids involved, they are also going to be more likely to help if they aren’t going to get overly hot and sweaty.

Get the Right Materials

While there are all kinds of products on the market today, you may want to use some items that you probably already have laying around the home to assist you with the window cleaning. Start with a clean, dry cloth to get rid of the build up and debris before adding any type of liquid. A squeegee is another valuable tool that help remove liquids once they are added. Be sure to find one the works well. After each use, use a cloth to remove the excess water so that you can start anew on the next stroke.

Most people aren’t sure what type of liquids to add to the area to ensure that they are cleaned well. The best combination is a mix of water with a few tablespoons of vinegar added in a spray bottle. Spray the entire area and use the squeegee to remove the extra. Because this isn’t a job that needs to be done every week or even every month, take the time to do it right so that you can enjoy the view when looking to the outside of your home.

When you begin to work on the inside window cleaning, you are going to use the same techniques and materials. The only difference is that you want to be a little more cautious when it comes the amount of water that you use and the area that you spraying. You don’t want to miss the intended areas and spray all over the walls or have the floors covered in water. Take your time.

If window cleaning seems like an overwhelming task, or you own a two story home, you may want …

Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient With High-Performance Window Shades

In the past, your window treatment choices were essentially window blinds or draperies. But today the variety of styles, models, and options in window shades and blinds is vast and varied. In fact, you can even increase your home’s energy efficiency with attractive, practical window treatments! Ranging from insulated Roman shades to unique cellular window blinds, your options in energy-efficient window treatments are practically limitless. Profiled below are tow of the most popular options, cellular shades and plantation shutters, but there are dozens of other options. Visit your local window treatment store to learn more!

Cellular Shades

Also known as honeycomb shades, cellular shades provide luxurious appearance and fantastic energy-efficient performance. Cellular window shades are constructed from two sheets of fabric that are pleated together to for air pockets (the “cells”). When your shades are down, these air pockets form a layer of insulation between your home and windows. Helping keep the heat in during the winter and out during the summer, cellular shades help decrease energy costs while still keeping your home comfortable. Cellular window shades come in two styles, single or double honeycomb. Double honeycomb shades provide up to 60% more insulation than single honeycomb versions, but they do tend to be more expensive. Available in a rainbow of colors and models cellular window shades are a great solution for stylish window décor and energy-efficient performance.

Plantation Shutters

An elegant alternative traditional horizontal blinds, plantation shutters are a great solution for gorgeous window treatments and improved energy efficiency. Installed snugly in your window frames, plantation shutters both help eliminate drafts and provide insulation against the outside temperature. Their unique construction and thermal properties help decrease heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, offering improved energy efficiency year-round. Durable, low-maintenance, and attractive, interior window shutters are also a great investment in your home. Highly-valued by home owners and home buyers alike, plantation shutters add more value to your house than any other window treatment. With interior shutters, you can enjoy superior energy-efficient performance now and earn great return on investment when you go to sell!

Remember, heat gain and loss through your windows can account for between 10% and 25% of your heating and cooling bills. Cellular shades and plantation shutters are the most popular, but with all of today’s options in aesthetically appealing, energy-efficient window shades and blinds, it simply makes sense to choose window treatments that can reduce your home’s energy costs. Contact your local window treatment specialist today to learn more about energy-efficient window shades for your home or office!…

Tips For Enhancing Silk Valances As Ideal Decor For French Doors

Silk valances are back in business, especially as chic decor for French doors and high-windows. The trend has kept dealers busy, even as the effect of the recession is yet to fade out completely. A lot of homeowners have opted for such alternatives against pelmets or rods as the latter are much more difficult to maintain. With the sprawling estates and huge homes finding no takers, it is natural that people will look for cost-effective alternatives in order to cut down on maintenance costs. Silk valances not only help keep a tab on this but also help enhance the elegance of the interiors, especially if you have drapes or curtains of the same material.

Here are some tips to help improve upon the already graceful imagery provided by the silk valances:

* Colors – You can mix and match different colors to induce a trendy yet classy look for your silk valances. For this, you should also keep a tab on the color combination used in your room. Make sure that the colors used for the window decor complements the color patterns used in the room. However the opposite can also work well, as many homes play out a stark contrast of conflicting colors – forcing the attention of the visitors onto the windows first!

* Shades – Even if you have a strict one-color affinity, pick silk valances of the same color, but of different shades. This will help keep your color attributes on a favorable footing, and yet offer a great impact on your home decor in a positive manner.

* Fabrics – From raw silk to banded Thai or Italian cotton constituents, using different material for valances in different rooms will add to the splendor. However, keep in mind that the overall ambiance of the room is at par with the style of window decor you decide to put up. Too elegant decor in your otherwise bland study can look more like a disruption than a style statement.

* Unconventional Styles – Experiment with your window decor. Mix and match styles, use balloon patterns, and infuse a sense of planned but messy patterns to help your window decor grab eyeballs in an instant.

Silk valances can be a cost-effective solution to your interior decor requirements, if you only know how to play your cards right. Keeping these tips in mind will help to a great extent in achieving the elegance you had been looking for.…

How to Keep Your Carpets Looking New For Longer

If possible choose a wool carpet because its texture and resilience makes it is easy to clean, harder wearing and relatively stain resistant.

We increase wear and tear on our carpets by trampling soil and other debris onto them but there are several ways to reduce the damage we cause:

Use doormats at entrances and at any transition from a hard surface onto carpet.

Remove your shoes – and wipe your pet’s paws – before walking on your carpet.

Vacuum your carpet regularly as this prevents dirt build up. Vacuum twice a week where the carpet gets heavy use and three times a week if you have pets.

Sprinkle your carpet with baking soda before you vacuum at least once a month to reduce odours, especially pet odours.

Always clean up spills quickly, if left to react it will likely become a stain.

Blot with a clean, absorbent cloth – do not rub as this may spread the stain.

Carefully blot the area before applying cleaning solution to remove as much of the spill as possible.

Test an inconspicuous area of carpet before using any cleaning solution.

When you apply spot cleaner work from the outside to the inside of the stain to avoid spreading it. Blot up excess cleaning fluid.

A clean white bath towel is excellent for drying carpet.

To dry a really wet patch of carpet, stack of 3 or 4 towels on it and weight down with something heavy, leave overnight.

If you haven’t dealt thoroughly with a stain it may reappear at the surface of your carpet. To prevent this, cover the stain with a towel and weigh down with something heavy overnight, then, clean as following websites may be useful for advice relating to specific stains:…

Replace Old, Inefficient Glass Panes Yourself

As windows age they can loosen up in their frames, crack, scratch, or even discolor. Furthermore, windows are the main source of heat loss in the winter and unwelcome heat gain in the summer. In other seasons, a little of both along with variable weather conditions can take a toll on your windows. What to do? You need a practical solution which is of course, to replace window glass in the most efficient way possible.

That sounds logical enough–and thinking along the lines of energy savings, the best solution is to replace the glass with double panes that have insulating properties. However, if the ecologically-friendly fix is impractical or too expensive, there’s still a right way to replace window glass.

If you choose to do it yourself and the pane to be replaced is larger than 2 feet by 3 feet, a professional is your best bet. Glass is tricky to handle and the previous installation can leave behind dangerous shards. If you go ahead and do the job, take extra precautions when you replace window glass.

Wear heavy gloves and safety goggles.

Remove the old glass as carefully as possible.

Clean the area vacated by the old glass.

Apply the proper putty or sealing compound.

Put in new glass that has been properly cut into the frame.

Add the special metal glazier’s points.

Add a finishing coat of putty.

Paint putty carefully and let dry.

Admire your work.

There are kits you can buy with tools and instructions. Be sure of measurements and give it your best shot. However, if you’re going the energy-saving route with the double-pane-insulated-energy-reduction coating, please consider having a professional do it. It might cost a whole lot more but in the end, what you save on electricity and heating, can more than make up for the initial investment.…

Glass Block Window Installations Made Easier With Lighter Blocks

Are you considering doing a glass block window installation project but are worried about the weight of the blocks? Worry no more – there is a solution for you. With the introduction of the 2″ thick series of blocks fabricated into vinyl frames this window installation has been made easier to install a lighter and safer window assembly. In this article you’ll learn 5 tips on where and how to use a vinyl framed block window.

Tip 1 – Identify where you want to use the window – Glass block windows have many uses beyond what most people think about. Here are a few common (and more unique) uses to consider:

Bathroom and Shower- With this type of window you can get rid of the expensive blinds and window treatments in the bathroom while still getting maximum light transmission. Use this window in the shower to provide a low maintenance light source in this wet area.

Basements – This cost effective use is popular to provide maximum security for a cost effective price.

Den- position these windows underneath cabinetry to let natural light flow in while maintaining privacy.

Closets- Do you have problems seeing well in your closet with only a small light fixture overhead? A solution is to install a fixed block transom window near the top of the closet walls. This will even help colorblind people to distinguish between blue and black socks.

Garage – If you like to use your garage for projects natural lighting is a big benefit and the block window provides high security for any valuable items you may be storing as well.

Kitchen – A block window between your kitchen countertops and cabinetry can let light stream in and provide a natural backsplash that’s easy to clean.

Step 2 – Determine if a framed or frameless window is better – The lighter 2″ thick glass block windows are only available in a vinyl framed system. Although it’s easier to work with the lighter window, the vinyl framed system is not the best solution for all projects. Here’s where to use both the framed and frameless systems:

Vinyl framed windows- use in wood framed (rough openings) where the size of the opening will work with the dimensions of the 2″ thick blocks (note: the 2″ thick blocks come in 8″ x 8″ x 2″ size so the rough openings need to work in 8″ increments). These windows (which are available with easy to install nailing fins) are used frequently in new construction, room additions, or in upper floor framed and stucco openings where the window openings can be adjusted to fit the window.

Unframed block windows- this window is (which are available in the heavier 3″ and 4″ thick blocks) generally more cost effective than the framed system and are best used in masonry openings where the block windows can be mortared into place. The other advantage of the unframed windows is they are available …

Everybody is suffering from the pandemic and thousands of people already died due to this virus, while others are still suffering or fighting because many countries have not yet received the vaccine. Most of the victims of COVID19 are confined in the hospitals or quarantine areas but there are also individuals who can manage to stay at home since they are either asymptomatic or with mild symptoms. The setting at home is quite difficult because you have to isolate yourself from other members of the family and you cannot leave the room until you get better or get a negative result from the swab test.

If you are a victim of this pandemic, then you need to make sure that your room is well ventilated and must be following the standards that are required for such patients. You should be able to seek an expert’s advice from various companies like the RA Styron HVAC system services to help you with the right ventilation. Keep in mind that this virus travels through the air as well so you have to think about safety of the people around you, especially when it is confirmed that you are carrying the virus.

Most of us are only thinking about the safety when going out of the house because we will meet other people and this is why we use face shields or masks as well using hand sanitizers. Since we are facing a tough battle with this pandemic, we should also consider our safety at home because we spend most of our time here. Now that the number of victims due to the COVID19 is still fluctuating, they should be given help by improving the HVAC system in their hospital rooms, quarantine areas, and isolated rooms at home.

Purifying

During this pandemic, we must install air purifiers at home and in our workplace. Technologies are better today, so it would be easier to use purifiers that are designed with an ozone generator, and thermal sterilization as well as irradiation. In this way, particles in the air that carries the virus will be inactivated.

Incorporating advanced technology would be very helpful to the victims of the coronavirus because these filters will control the air that enters the room. The technicians will install the pre-filter that is designed with tangled fibers, which is in-charged in trapping particles.

You may also use HEPA filters because this can help eliminate small particles. This must be installed and maintained by professionals only.

Upgrading

Since airborne transmission of the coronavirus is possible, commercial and residential building owners must immediately act to upgrade the HVAC systems for the safety of everybody – read https://www.expressnews.com/lifestyle/article/Upgrades-to-home-air-conditioning-systems-may-15432814.php to learn the importance of upgrading. The virus is transmitted from one person to another not only through physical or face-to-face contact but also when an infected individual sneezes or coughs and when this contaminates the air, then that is how you can acquire it.

Since you are inside the house or building, the spread must be …