door installer

Wood vs. Steel Front Doors

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Before you call the door installer to install new entry doors, you may want to decide if a wood or steel door is right for your home. Each option comes with unique qualities. For example, wood doors can be more decorative, but steel doors can be more secure. Here are some of the things you should consider before you call the door installer.

 

Steel Door Pros

According to This Old House, a premium steel door will have a 24-gauge skin on top of a steel frame. The larger the skin gauge, the more secure the door is. Steel doors provide optimum security. They are a cost-effective option that can improve energy efficiency. There are plenty of styles to choose from that can enhance your entry.

For the security-conscious homeowner, a steel door can be the right solution for their home. However, there are a few cons that you need to consider.

 

Steel Door Cons

Steel doors can be very heavy. Your door frame may need fortification to hold the additional weight of the door at an additional expense. Premium-grade steel doors can be costly. However, as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. You may pay a little more, but you get the optimum security.

 

Wood Door Pros

Wood front doors are traditional and offer versatile styles. There are different wood types to choose from that can add curb appeal and interest to the exterior of your home. One of the biggest selling points of wood entry doors is that they can be as ornate as you want.

Wood doors can be energy efficient, but it’s mostly the aesthetic that sells homeowners. Of course, there are some cons to choosing a wooden door.

 

Wood Door Cons

Wood doors can be more expensive than their steel counterparts if you choose them to be custom-made. Wood can also warp and lose its shape over time. Wood doors need to be maintained and painted. You may also need a door installer to adjust the door from time to time. While they offer quality security, the steel doors are generally more secure.

Choosing the right door for your home is important. Connect with Southwest Door & Sash, Inc. to get input on making the decision easier.

home window replacement

4 Popular Home Window Styles

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It is unfathomable to build a home without windows. Can you imagine how life would be inside a house? Windows have several benefits for your home design. They let in natural light, boost the ambiance in the house, improve ventilation, and increase energy efficiency.

For these reasons, you can understand why many property developers and homeowners include many windows in the house. According to Energy Star, a typical American house has up to 22 windows. Since most windows are made of glass, they’re susceptible to cracking. When getting a home window replacement, you’ll want to choose stylish windows that add a touch of elegance to your home.

Consider the following popular window styles for your next home window replacement project.

Double-hung Window

Double-hung windows are a common window style and popular for home window replacement. A double-hung window has two sashes or panels that slide vertically on tracks. The top panel opens while the bottom remains closed. The window closes or opens effortlessly. In addition, they don’t get dirty easily or quickly thanks to their vertical tracks.

Sliding Sash Windows

These windows are similar to double-hung windows, but they only have one sliding sash rather than two sashes. The windows are generally larger than double-hung windows, making them suitable as picture windows. Moreover, they have fewer moving parts that would allow air leakage, making them more energy efficient.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are a type of window that swings outward rather than sliding horizontally. They hinge at the side and are usually used as bay windows and patio doors. They are great for letting sunlight into the house. Also referred to as crank windows, they have an easy-turn handle that folds downwards, making them simple to use. However, they aren’t as energy efficient as sliding sash windows.

Fixed Windows

As the name suggests, fixed windows don’t move at all. This means they can’t be opened or closed. Fixed windows can either be direct sash or set sash. The primary use of fixed windows is to provide gorgeous views in homes with vaulted or high ceilings.

If you’re looking to replace your old windows, you should consider a window style that adds value and functionality to your home. Visit Southwest Door & Sash, Inc today and we’ll help choose a suitable home window replacement that complements your home design.

home window replacement

Telltale Signs You Need to Replace Your Windows

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Windows are not permanent fixtures in the house. While the need for home window replacement may not be so obvious, there are signs to look out for. Skimping on replacing windows can be costly in the long run, especially if you are left with an increase in energy bills and significant water damage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25%-30% of the energy used for household heating and cooling is often lost through windows. Continue reading to explore the signs that your windows need to be replaced with double-pane or other modern models.

1. Drafts

If you feel a draft even when the windows are shut properly, there are likely leaks in your windows and frames. Drafts can enter through small gaps between the frame and the pane that form due to expansion and contraction in changing weather conditions. Drafts can increase your energy bill as AC units and heaters strain to maintain the programmed temperature.

2. Warped Frames

When windows are difficult to open and close smoothly, it may be time to replace them. Years of wear and tear can cause this, but so can structural damage, water damage, and the contraction and expansion of wood over time. If windows can’t be shut properly, the heating bill may increase during winter as you lose precious warm air through the gaps.

3. Condensation

If you regularly find condensation between the panes, it may indicate that the seals are faulty. This will affect the energy efficiency of your house because it’s not retaining all the warm and cool air produced to regulate its temperature. Not only can this affect the air temperature indoors, but excess condensation can lead to water damage over time.

4. Noise

If you hear a lot of outside noise, such as dogs barking, traffic, or lawn mowers, you may want to replace your current windows. For example, if your windows are single pane, you may want to get an upgrade to double or triple pane glass. Similarly, if your windows rattle when it’s windy outside, they’re most likely not only letting air in but also on the verge of cracking or shattering. Windows should be installed firmly so that the only way they can move is within their intended mechanics of opening and closing.

5. Increased Energy Bill

If your energy bills are higher than usual, or you notice a steady increase every month, you need to check all your windows for drafts and gaps. With faulty windows, your HVAC system has to work harder to regulate and maintain the temperature, thus using up more energy than it would if it only had to run for an hour. With an efficient HVAC system, your heated or cooled air should last several hours in your home.

6. Rot

Mildew and rot can occur due to regular exposure to moisture in areas that aren’t supposed to get wet. If you notice rot and mold around your window frames, it’s time for a home window replacement. Mold can cause respiratory issues, and moist environments can be ideal for insect nests and bacterial growth.
Windows are often overlooked when it comes to home renovations. Modern, energy-efficient windows can add style, value, and safety to your home. Hire a reputable company like Southwest Door and Sash, Inc for your window replacement needs. Contact us today for a quote.
doors

Home Upgrades That Can Reduce Energy Loss

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The home improvement market has recently become big business as more and more homeowners are looking to upgrade their space. Some of the best and most popular home improvements are those that make the home more energy efficient by reducing energy loss. In this article, we consider three home upgrades that can help you reduce your energy bills, starting with doors.

Energy Efficient Doors

Replacing old doors is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy loss. According to the Department of Energy, a door that’s sufficiently thick (1-1.5 inches) without a window offers five times the insulating value of a similarly-sized solid wood door. By replacing as many doors in your home as possible, you can easily maximize your energy savings. For instance, you can purchase various energy-efficient doors for your garage, patio, or your interior. The goal is to have doors that can effectively prevent indoor air from escaping and outdoor air from entering. This makes it easier to maintain an optimal temperature and ensures your HVAC system doesn’t work overtime and consume more energy.

Replacement Windows

Energy-efficient windows can also help you significantly reduce energy loss in your home. If your windows are not in the best condition, there’s a high chance they’re doing a poor job of preventing air leaks. When purchasing energy-efficient windows, there are several important factors you have to consider, such as the ENERGY STAR rating. In addition, you should also look for windows that have a low U-factor since these have more thermal resistance, meaning they do a better job at preventing hot air from escaping. This is especially handy in colder climates, where the heating bill quickly adds up.

New Roof

As you go about looking for ways to reduce energy loss in your home, you should consider investing in a new roof. A new roof can prevent energy loss by ensuring there are no air leaks. If your roof is old, it may have many leaks that increase energy loss. For instance, you may have to keep turning your thermostat up during winter to maintain a comfortable environment if the warm air is constantly escaping. Similarly, it may be harder to keep cooler in summer if hot air keeps getting into your home while the cool air escapes.

 

If you’re looking for home upgrades that pay, you should consider installing energy-efficient doors and windows as well as buying energy-efficient appliances. If you’re looking for energy-efficient doors that can help you streamline your energy savings, contact us today.