Choosing a Window Style for Your Home

When you’re having new windows installed in your home, you want to make the most informed decisions possible. When it comes to style, material, and installation, you’ll want to consult with the experts before making your choices. Before getting replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, be sure to take some time to explore all your options and learn a little more about them.

To begin with, there are several different ways that windows can open. For a basic window, you can either have single-hung, double-hung, casement, or horizontal-sliding. Single-hung windows have a fixed top pane, but the bottom pane can be opened vertically. Double-hung windows appear similar, but both panes can be opened and slide up and down, to allow maximum ventilation. These also often can swing inwards to allow easy cleaning. Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward. These can provide excellent ventilation, and the pressure of the sash on the frame provides a tight seal when it’s shut. Horizontal-sliding windows are just what they sound like; rather than opening vertically, they slide horizontally to let in the outside air. These are often utilized in areas where there is more width area than height for a window. They either may have one fixed pane and one that slides, or both may slide.

Many people want windows that add an architectural design element to their home. While looking beautiful, these windows can also be functional in many different ways as well. One example is a garden or greenhouse window. These come out of the side of your home, providing an interior shelf that is exposed to plenty of natural light. These are excellent places to display plants in your home. Another option is a bay window. These also extend out from the side of your home, but they are usually much larger. They are finished with a headboard and a seat board, and you can even install recessed lighting in the headboard. These are a great way to get lots of beautiful light in your home, and they make a room feel even bigger than it is.

Two more options that you have are picture windows, and mulled windows. A picture window is a fixed window, without a movable pane. They are generally larger than a regular window, and offer an expansive and unencumbered view of the outside. A mulled window can be larger similar to a picture window as well, although it doesn’t need to be. These are essentially many smaller panes of glass put together into a larger window. They are highly decorative, and perfect for certain types of décor.

All these types of windows have different uses that might fit in your home. If you’re ready to start exploring your options for replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, give us a call at A-Taylor Made Window. We are an experienced window installation company in the Bay area, and we will be happy to tell you more about all the different styles we offer. Sign up on our website for a free in-home consultation, and get started on your home improvements today!

Choosing a Material for Your Replacement Window Frames

When you’re in need of replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, it’s important to do a little bit of research first. There are several different types of materials used to make window frames, and each one has its own benefits. Some provide more insulation, while others have greater versatility in appearance. Some materials require little to no maintenance, while others will need periodic maintenance done. Depending on the appearance you’re looking for, your budget, and what kind of performance you want, there is certain to be a material that is right for you.

Vinyl. Vinyl window frames are one of the most popular choices for replacement and new windows. They are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and versatile in their appearance. They are made to last a long time, be insect-resistant, and they will not rust or corrode. For this reason, they come with a long manufacturer’s warranty.

Fiberglass. Fiberglass frames are one of the strongest and most enduring materials out there. Their factory-applied paint will last for many years to come, and they are unlikely to warp in shape over time. There are many colors to choose from, allowing you to match the rest of your home. They provide good insulation, and are a popular choice for environmentally conscious customers.

Wood. This is a classic material that provides an attractive look from the inside out. They have good insulating properties, and can be painted any color imaginable. If you are keeping a traditional look with your home, wood may be the choice for you. They do require a bit more maintenance over time to keep them looking good and functioning properly.

Clad Wood. This option involves wood frames that are clad on the outside with vinyl, fiberglass, or aluminum. This allows you to have the wood appearance on the interior of your home, while protecting the wood material from the elements on the outside. It helps your wooden frames last much longer against the wear and tear of the seasons and weather. You will also notice better insulation and moisture reduction.

Composite. This material combines wood particles with fiberglass material, creating a well-insulated frame that resembles wood. They can be painted to match your home, and they are durable and long-lasting as well. Generally, these may be a little more costly than some other options, but their versatility and energy-efficiency makes up for it.

These are your main choices when it comes to window frame material. If you’re in need of replacement windows near San Francisco, CA, the company you choose can provide assistance with picking the right type for you. At A-Taylor Made Window, we provide windows made from all these materials. Our in-house craftsmen provide high-quality craftsmanship and service. Our sales team will be happy to sit down with you and help you come up with a plan that fits into your budget, while meeting the appearance and performance needs that you’re looking for in a window. Please give us a call to receive your free in-home consultation, and we can move forward from there!

Choosing an Installer for Your Replacement Windows

Anytime you make updates or renovations on your home, it’s important to choose wisely when selecting a company to hire. The same holds true for when you need replacement windows near Richmond, CA. There are several things you can do to ensure that you’re choosing the best company for the job.

One of the best ways to research a window replacement company is to look for testimonials and reviews. Many reputable businesses will include testimonials and galleries on their website, and you can read experiences that real customers have had. You can also enter the name of the company into your search engine to find more reviews online. This is a great way to get an idea of what kind of service and craftsmanship you can expect.

After you’ve done some research and found a company that interests you, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Find out how many years of experience they have, and you can even ask how long their employees have stayed with the company. A quality business will generally have loyal employees. Another thing to look for is a company that uses their own in-house contractors and craftsmen. This is usually more desirable, because they are directly responsible for those employees and the work that is done. Don’t be afraid to ask about whether they are licensed, certified, and insured, as well. All those things are vital for a legitimate window installation company to have, and they protect you as a consumer too.

Most window and door companies will list their trusted manufacturers on their website, so you can browse their catalogs. This is a great way to research what kind of products they use, and which manufacturers they partner with. If they partner with well-known names that have plenty of good reviews, you can feel safe in choosing that business.

Finally, it’s never a bad idea to ask around to friends and family who they recommend. Chances are someone in your circle has needed window replacement in the past, and it’s worth finding out who did the work for them. Whether they would hire them again or not, it’s valuable information from a trusted source.

Doing home renovations and improvements can be a headache. If you go into it with the right tools and mindset, it won’t be as bad. Researching the companies you’re considering hiring before making a commitment is always a wise idea. When you’re in need of replacement windows near Richmond, CA, you want to make sure you are receiving quality service and work. At A-Taylor Made Window, we employ in-house craftsman who have years of experience, and will provide excellent work. You can take a look at our website to see galleries of some of our past jobs, as well as read testimonials from past and current customers. You can also get a feel for your options by looking at our trusted manufacturers. If you are ready to move forward with us and receive an estimate, please give us a call or email any time. We would be happy to help you improve your home.

Signs That It’s Time for Replacement Windows

When you own your home, you have certain responsibilities to upkeep and maintain its condition. This is important for you and your family’s comfort and safety, and it also helps you maintain or even raise the value of your home. Windows are one of the most important parts of your home, both structurally and in appearance. While you won’t need to get replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, very often, it’s important to know the signs that your windows are not functioning as they should.

Moisture Buildup Between Panes. If you notice moisture accumulating between the glass panes in your window, this is a sign that their seal is cracked or broken. This can happen over time with changes in temperature and moisture content in the air. If the problem is allowed to go on for too long, you run the risk of mold and mildew entering your home. These can be detrimental to your health, and harmful to your possessions as well. When you start to notice moisture buildup, it’s probably time to think about replacing your windows.

Drafts and Higher Energy Costs. If you notice your energy bills rising over time, and it’s more than simple inflation would account for, you may be losing efficiency through your windows. This can happen as the frames tend to warp over long periods of time, due to changes in temperature and general wear and tear. Similarly, if you feel drafty areas in your home near any windows, this means that the seal is not intact and you’re losing heat. Replacing your windows can help you lower your energy costs in both warm and cold months, and you’ll save money in the long run.

Difficulty Opening and Closing Windows. Do you have some windows that take a lot of effort to open or shut? You might even just leave them shut all the time, to save yourself the effort. This is an indication that your windows may need replaced. It might be just one or two that need replaced at a time, which will allow you to have less disruption from construction in your home. Similarly, if you have windows that are very loose and won’t stay open, this is another sign that you may need to replace it. The frames can warp over the years, causing your windows not to function as well.

These are just a few of the signs to watch out for with the windows in your home. Finding replacement windows near Berkeley, CA, is not difficult, and you can improve your home’s energy efficiency by doing so. At A-Taylor Made Window, our experienced in-house craftsmen will provide quality construction in replacing your windows. We have many trusted manufacturers that can offer a wide selection of materials and styles. Whether you have an emergency situation like a broken window, or if you just want to develop a plan to update your windows over time, we can help you out. Give us a call to get an estimate, and let us help you improve your home’s safety, efficiency, and appearance.