Save Money with Window Replacement

The official start of winter (December 21st, 2015) is over a month away—but the temperatures are starting to drop and Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Winter is unofficially here, and it’s a good time to start thinking about saving! Then again, when is it not a good time to think about saving?

Energy Efficient Replacement Windows

Many homeowners replace their windows around this time of year, before the temperatures drop too much and we start experiencing more extreme weather. But how should you go about the replacement process? Which products are best? How can you save money by installing new windows?

Tips for Saving Money on Windows

Whether you need to replace a broken window or are remodeling and installing multiple new windows, consider the following:

Keep Style & Material in Mind

Although saving money can be important, we don’t recommend price shopping for windows. Windows should be high quality, and it’s worth the bigger price tag. On average, single-hung windows tend to be less expensive than other types, but other styles—such as casement and awning—are more energy-efficient and can help you save in the long run. It’s the same case with materials, where some are more energy-efficient than others. Vinyl gets high marks in this category.

Always In: Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency isn’t a fad—it will always be a top priority for homeowners. Higher energy efficiency means higher long-term savings. There are many ways to ensure you’re installing energy-efficient windows. We highly recommend looking for:

  • The blue ENERGY STAR® label
  • U-factor and other ratings on the NFRC label
  • Double-pane windows

You can save up to $465 a year when replacing single-pane windows and up to $111 when replacing double-pane windows (learn more).

Installation Is Important

Initial installation should not be underestimated or understated. If your windows are installed improperly, they not only can cost you money and compromise your home’s comfort but can also potentially cause structural integrity problems. It’s worth it to take the time and hire experienced installers rather than going for the lowest price. You’ll get what you pay for!

Not Every Option Is Necessary

We want to share one more tip from Consumer Reports that we think is worthwhile. Keep in mind that not every single option adds value and is right for your replacement project. Some options—like two panes and low-E glass—can be extremely beneficial and save you money, but triple glazing, for example, probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate.

Window Replacement in Indianapolis

Here at Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie, we install ENERGY STAR qualified vinyl windows from leading manufacturers in a variety of styles, from double-hung to casement to bay. Contact us today to learn more about our products and get the ball rolling on your replacement!

You may also be interested in reading:

Should I Paint My Vinyl Windows?

When it comes to replacement windows, vinyl windows are some of the most desirable types available. This material is low-maintenance, efficient, resistant to rotting, and often one of the most affordable choices around.

Double-Hung Windows

 

But what if you choose one color today and change your mind down the road? What if you repaint your home’s exterior? Can vinyl windows be painted, or will you be stuck with window frames that clash with the new house color?

The answer depends on who you talk to. Painting contractors will likely say yes, you can paint vinyl windows, while window manufacturers are more likely to tell you no. The decision is ultimately up to you, but use caution and take the right approach.

 Considerations to Make Before Painting Vinyl Windows

Before you make your final decision about painting your vinyl windows, consider these points:

  • Unless specifically stated otherwise, painting the window can void the manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Color is more important than just creating a new aesthetic. Painting vinyl windows a dark color could cause irreparable damage to the material because it will absorb more heat from the sun. That’s why vinyl windows are most often available in white.
  • If you attempt the job yourself and accidentally paint the weatherstripping, screen channels or jamb liners, window efficiency and operation could suffer.

Tips for Painting Vinyl Windows

If you decide you still want to paint your vinyl windows, it’s recommended to follow these guidelines to help prevent the paint from peeling:

  • Thoroughly clean the vinyl surface of dirt and debris with water and soap.
  • Apply an alkyd-based primer to the vinyl to help the paint bond to the rigid surface. Applying paint directly to the vinyl can cause the frames to flake and peel off pretty quickly since vinyl isn’t an ideal surface for painting.
  • Choose a paint specifically designed for PVC. Stick to a relatively light color to prevent the material from overheating in the sun.
  • Unless you’re sure about your paint choice, send a color chip to the manufacturer for an opinion. Keeping open communication could help preserve your warranty and give you peace of mind that you’re doing the job right. At the very least, take your question to a local painting contractor for their professional opinion.

For more tips about vinyl window replacements or taking care of vinyl windows, please contact Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie today.

Causes of Leaky Windows

Many homes, especially older ones, experience problems with window leaks. If you suspect your windows are leaking, find out more about how this happens, why it matters and when window replacement is necessary.

Why Are My Windows Leaking?

Windows are essentially panes of glass surrounded by a frame that fill in a hole in the wall. If everything isn’t just right, the window may start to leak. Common causes of window leaks include:

  • Peeled or damaged caulk on the interior or exterior of the window
  • Cracked or loose weatherstripping between the window and the frame
  • Poor window installation
  • Poorly installed or completely absent flashing tape
  • Missing sealant or use of the wrong type of nails

Why Do Window Leaks Matter?

So your windows are a little leaky. Does it really matter? Usually the answer is yes, and here’s why:

  • Water can get in when it rains, which can damage the windowsill and frame, especially if these are made of wood.
  • Water also promotes mold growth, which can damage your home’s structural integrity and send your allergies into a frenzy.
  • Air can seep in at all times, causing heating bills to rise in the winter and cooling bills to rise in the summer.
  • Air leaks can introduce drafts that decrease home comfort.

Replacing Leaky Windows on Your Indianapolis Area Home

Air leaks caused by damaged caulk or weatherstripping are easy to fix. Simply remove the old products, clean and dry the window surface, and apply new caulk or weatherstripping. This is often enough to seal up a leaky window and solve the problem, but it’s not always the case.

If you attempt these do-it-yourself fixes to no avail, you could have a structural problem on your hands. Don’t allow leaky windows to increase your bills, make you less comfortable, damage your home and potentially cause mold problems. Instead, seek a window replacement from professionals.

Here at Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie, we offer vinyl replacement windows from American Window and Great Lakes Window, two top brands with decades of experience producing some of the finest vinyl windows on the market. An upgrade is sure to do away with your leaky windows and leave you with a comfortable, energy efficient home.

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Why are my windows leaking?” you can get to the bottom of it with more help from Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie! Contact us today to learn more.

The Cons of DIY Window Projects

Fall is beautiful here in the Indianapolis area—not only the vibrant colors but the temperatures as well. To let in a nice breeze, you go to open your window only to find that it doesn’t open all the way. Window problems can be frustrating, but, more importantly, they can potentially cost you more.

Windows Indianapolis

Are you considering going the do-it-yourself route? Many people who are handy around the house tackle DIY projects themselves. Why should your windows be any different?

Should I Handle Window Repairs Myself?

Here at Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie, we recommend professional services when it comes to windows (and we bet other companies do too!). Why? The number one reason is safety.

  • Safety: Painting may be a fine DIY project to handle on your own. Although it may be faster when done by professionals, there’s essentially no harm in painting your front door and walls by yourself (but we suggest covering the furniture!). Windows are another story. For window repair, you may have to use a ladder and there’s a higher risk of injury.
  • Money: Drafty windows are energy-inefficient and can cause your bills to skyrocket. If repairs aren’t handled correctly, even just one little part, your windows can end up costing you more money—and even potentially be a safety hazard. This is particularly important if there are young children in the house who can reach the windows.
  • Efficiency: Lastly, professionals can get the job done much more quickly than you can. They have all the right tools, training and experience. No hours of research on the internet, trips to the store for the right equipment, etc. One trip and they’re done (for the most part)! Professionals also offer the benefit of knowledge. They can assess your windows and let you know if replacement would be more cost-effective than repair, which can save you more money in the long run.

High-Quality Window Services in Indianapolis

Do you need window repair or replacement in central Indiana? Make Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie your first call. We bring decades of experience to the table and work with all types of windows, from double-hung to casement to bay.

Contact us to learn more or start discussing your project!

Are Casement Windows Safe & Secure?

Hinged at the top, side or bottom, casement windows swing open and close securely.  They are also extremely energy-efficient but how safe are casement windows? When working correctly, casement windows are one of the most secure windows that you can install in your home.

These windows are a great choice for many homes and not just for the fact that they are very secure! They also:

  • Are easy to open
  • Help provide great ventilation and airflow
  • Come in a variety of colors  and designs

How Safe Are Casement Windows?

When in good condition, casement windows can keep your home safe and secure without a whole lot of effort or expense on your behalf. However, if your windows are old or they no longer function properly, you should consider replacing them or securing them.

If you have a casement window that is big enough for an adult to fit through, removing the operator crank and hiding it out of sight can help. For this to work, you need to have casement windows that are in excellent condition. If you have wobbly sashes or you need to prop the windows open, you may need extra security or new windows.

Casement Window Installation in Central Indiana

Whether you are looking to replace old casement windows or you are thinking about replacing your current windows with casement windows, Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie can help.

We offer the highest-quality casement windows, designed and manufactured by American Window and Great Lakes Window. Both brands come with a multi-point locking system, allowing homeowners to enjoy maximum security benefits. As mentioned previously, casement windows are one of the most secure window types and with this added security protection, you can be sure that your home is safe and secure.

If you are looking for new windows that are safe and secure, contact the team at Overhead Door Co of Indianapolis & Muncie to learn more about your options!

Are Vinyl Windows Better than Aluminum?

When it’s time to replace your windows, you have a few important considerations to make. In addition to the window’s operation style, you also need to decide what window material you want. If you’re comparing vinyl and aluminum windows, let this guide help you determine why vinyl may be the better choice for you.

Double-Hung Window

Why Are Vinyl Windows Better than Aluminum?

Are vinyl windows better than aluminum—and if so, why?

Energy Efficiency

As a metal, aluminum allows cold air to enter quite easily in the winter. The reverse occurs in the summer when aluminum transfers heat from outside into your home.

On the other hand, vinyl is a naturally superior insulator. This means choosing vinyl windows helps make your home more energy efficient and can lower your heating and cooling bills in the process.

Durability

Aluminum shares another characteristic with other metals, which is that it corrodes when exposed to airborne chemicals, salt and pollution. The material can also rust if used in places continually exposed to high humidity, dampness or condensation.

In contrast, vinyl is more impervious to rust, rot and flaking. This means, if you live in a place with demanding weather, you can expect your vinyl windows to last.

Maintenance

You can paint new aluminum windows in any color you want. While this provides versatility down the road, it increases maintenance, requiring you to repaint the window as the paint gradually chips and flakes away.

The low maintenance requirements of vinyl provide a major selling point for this window type. Vinyl aren’t ideal for paint, so you choose the color you want at installation and sit back while the durable material outshines other windows that have to be repainted every few years.

Price

Aluminum and vinyl windows tend to cost about the same. It really depends on the window type, manufacturer and specific framing options you choose. Often the cost depends just as much on the glass as the frame material. In the end, it pays to shop around for the best combination of low cost and high quality.

Choosing New Windows for Your Indianapolis Area Home

Do these reasons convince you as to why are vinyl windows better than aluminum? It’s time to get serious about shopping!

Your first stop should be Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie. We offer vinyl windows from Great Lakes Window and American Window. Contact us today to learn more about vinyl windows and why they could be perfect for your home in central Indiana.

How Can I Fix My Broken Window?

Do you have one or more broken windows in your home? Various problems may have you in search of a permanent solution. Consider these common problems and the best ways to fix your broken window.

  • Stuck windows: Wooden windows are most likely to stick in the summer because this material expands in warm, humid weather. To get the window unstuck, first try rubbing candle wax along the window’s edge. If this fails to fix the problem, file down the opening edge to give the windows more room to slide. You may need a professional’s help to do this.
  • Loose windows: The opposite can also occur when windows become loose and begin to rattle around. To fix your broken window, a professional can adjust its position as if installing it from scratch and, if that fails to work, try other methods .
  • Broken glass: If a window pane is cracked, you can temporarily seal the crack with weather-seal tape or even clear nail polish. This is not a good permanent solution, though. If whole pieces of glass are missing, you should hire a window company to replace the pane.
  • Rotten window sill: Wood can rot if it’s exposed to water. The best option for fixing this problem is to have the sill replaced. If the damage is more widespread, you may need to replace the entire window.
  • Drafty windows: An easy way to fix a drafty window is to replace worn down or cracked weatherstripping. Professional services are recommended. This helps the window close tightly, reducing drafts and providing energy savings. You can also apply caulk to stationary joints, but again, this is a temporary solution at best. Replacement is one of the best solution for drafty windows, especially if they are older and just not as efficient anymore.
  • Foggy glass: If the window is always foggy or sweaty looking, it can mean the seal between the two panes of glass has broken. It might be possible to de-fog the glass, but it’s difficult to prevent the problem from reoccurring. A better, more permanent option is to replace the window. You can save money by replacing only the glass portion.

Need Window Replacement in Central Indiana?

If you decide it’s not feasible to fix your broken window, you should pursue a replacement. Contact Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie to learn more about our window repair and replacement services!

Why Do Windows Have Multiple Panes?

Ever found yourself wondering: Why do windows have two panes? Allow the experts at Overhead Door the pleasure of cluing you in! Modern windows are made with multiple panes for energy efficiency purposes, but there’s more to it than that.

Two Panes Of Protection

Windows with two panes are appropriately called “Double Pane Windows”, or IGUs (Insulated Glass Units). These most often feature two panes of glass separated by a space to allow air or gas between them. These panes are sealed together with a vacuum-tight sealant along the frame, and often include a desiccant to reduce moisture buildup between the panes.

The two panes increase the insulation property of your windows, and the gap of air provides exceptional insulation against energy loss, and also acts as a buffer against noise pollution. Some IGUs are filled with a gas like argon, which adds further insulation, as it is more dense than the air we breathe.

Functionally speaking, double-pane windows are considerably more effective at insulating a home against weather, energy transfer and sound. They are quite superior to a single pane window, which are rarely seen in homes today.

The Benefits of Multiple-Pane Windows

Double pane windows provide excellent benefits, and are becoming more and more common as time goes on. Benefits include:

  • Reduced energy costs. The increased efficiency of these windows can help save homeowners on utility costs, making them an extremely effective “going green” option.
  • Improved insulation against noise. Double pane windows make for a much quieter and peaceful home by helping create a barrier against outside sound.
  • A more comfortable home. Double pane windows can keep a cool home cooler, and a warm home warmer. Temperature control is one of the most desired creature comforts for a homeowner, and IGUs make it a much easier ask.

Double-Pane Window Installation in the Indianapolis Area

Why do windows have two panes? Now you know! For further information about Overhead’s products, services and offers, or if you’re ready to install new windows, contact us online today.

Best Windows for Sound Reduction

Are outdoor noises louder than they should be? When you get home from work, you want a relaxing, peaceful environment—not one where you can hear traffic and people outside talking. While insulation may be one solution, another one you may not have thought of is window replacement.

New windows can help with sound control—but there are so many choices. Which ones are the best for helping reduce outside noise? Contact Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie to discuss replacement for your home, or keep reading to learn more about the best types of windows for sound reduction!

What Are the Best Windows for Noise Reduction?

There is no single window style that is significantly better than the rest when it comes to soundproofing. The number of panes is a more important factor to consider. If you have old single-pane windows, we recommend replacing them. Double- and triple-pane windows are often marketed for their energy saving features, but the features that help insulate your home from the heat and cold can also help reduce outside noise. Modern windows are available with:

  • Glass glazing
  • Improved weather stripping
  • Insulating gases (like argon)

These work together to help reduce noise from outside.

According to the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), soundproofing is a factor to consider when buying new windows. Products have certain ratings for this. Acoustical performance ratings measure the amount of sound transmission through a window. The higher the sound transmission rating, the better the window is at reducing noise from coming through. Learn more about window NFRC ratings and labels.

Window Replacement in Central Indiana

Downtown Indianapolis—and other surrounding areas—can be noisy. For those who live on busy streets or have old, inefficient windows, noise reduction could be a top priority. Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie installs quality vinyl windows that are energy-efficient and can help with sound control for your home.

Contact us today to get started on your replacement project!

What Are the Best Windows for My Home?

Now is a great time to replace your old windows—demand for window contractors is lower in the summer. But there are many options out there, so how do you narrow it down?

Double-Hung Windows

It’s a decision many homeowners struggle with! Perhaps you’re in the same boat. Have you decided you need replacement but are trying to decide which type of window to purchase? Talking to professionals is recommended, but keep reading if you want a quick guide before bringing in the pros.

Best Replacement Windows on the Market

What are the best replacement windows?

Energy Efficiency

While this question is subjective in a way, there is a common characteristic shared among most of the best windows (products that get good ratings from consumers and are in high demand). This characteristic? Energy efficiency. The majority of window shoppers have energy efficiency at the top of their priority list. You probably do too!

Look for windows with:

In terms of style, picture windows (which are inoperable) as well as casement and awning windows have high energy efficiency marks.

Material & Style

Energy efficiency aside, reviews and ratings from other consumers are always good to look at when you’re shopping for windows (and anything else, really!). According to ConsumerReports.org testing, vinyl casement and double-hung windows are among the best.

Your Needs

“Best replacement windows” is very general. It’s best to break it down to be more specific. Start with where you need new windows. For instance, the best window for above your kitchen sink may be different than the best one for the front of your home.

Window Replacement in the Indianapolis Area

Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis & Muncie offers high-quality vinyl windows from American Window and Great Lakes Window. We look forward to helping you improve your home’s energy efficiency, comfort and aesthetics with the right windows!

Contact us to learn more about our services or to discuss your project.