The typical storm window provides a good amount of protection. However, it may be too expensive for the average homeowner to afford. Installing it is also a challenge since the average person would need to be comfortable with drills and ladders in order to install the window correctly. If the person does not possess these skills, they may need to hire a contractor in order to get the job done. This can be expensive depending on who does the job. It is also a hassle since the individual would need to interview several contractors and check their references as well.
To avoid all of these hassles, a homeowner can choose to install acrylic magnetic storm windows. They provide a good amount of protection against strong winds, heavy rains, and excessive sunlight. They are also very easy to install and light enough for the average person to carry alone. Installing these windows are very simple because ladders and drills are not necessary unless the homeowner has high interior windows. Instead of screws or nails, a magnetic strip applied to the interior frame holds these storm windows in place.
The fact that these windows are interior storm windows can be a negative and a positive thing. They provide no protection for the exterior of the window so it will still be susceptible to wear and staining from the elements. The homeowner will need to keep up with their exterior maintenance to prevent their windows frames from chipping or rotting. However, they still do a good job of keeping the interior of the house warm during the winter and cool during the summer. They also keep the furniture and rugs protected from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Their ability to offer so much protection at an affordable price makes them a perfect choice for homeowners on a budget. Acrylic magnetic storm windows are also easy to install, so do-it-yourselfers will have no problem with this process if they are good at reading instructions. Most companies that sell these windows offer installation services as well, which also makes the process simple for people who are not into doing their own home improvement projects. Homeowners looking for affordable and durable storm windows that they can remove and replace at will can definitely benefit from acrylic magnetic storm windows.
What Type of Storm Windows Should You Buy for your Home?
Unless you come across an inferior window product, all storm windows offer some degree of protection. What you need to do is determine which kind will work best for your particular windows. You should also ask yourself why you need the storm windows in the first place because this will give you a good idea of which type you should purchase. Do you need them for sound proofing, do you wish to block a draft or do you just want to add an extra layer of protection to your window frames?
If you have traditional single-paned windows, more than likely they are not energy efficient. Even if the glass is pretty thick and sturdy, you still may feel a draft every now and again. If the glass is too thin, you may have an issue with too much noise as well. The best type of storm windows for a situation like this would be triple-track storm windows.
They are called triple-tracks because they have three sections that hold the top sash, bottom sash and screen. You can easily remove each piece whenever you want to clean them. You can also raise the window up and down whenever you feel like letting natural air into the house.
If you wish to protect a thin piece of bathroom glass or a leaded glass window, you can purchase fixed storm windows. Fixed storms are stationary pieces of glass surrounded by a frame. They are usually pretty durable and some of them come with a light tint for energy efficiency. Once you put a fixed storm window over your existing window, you will not be able to remove it easily. They were not meant to open and close like triple-track storms. Their sole purpose is to provide permanent protection for a window that may be too old or too thin.
If you want the least expensive alternative, you can install magnetic storm windows. These storm windows are usually made out of plexiglass or some sort of plastic. Their lightweight makes them easy to handle, replace, and remove when necessary. Magnetic storm windows are for the interior of the home. Their main purpose is to block out wind. They do very little for sound protection but if they have a slight tint, they will protect furniture and rugs from excessive sunlight.
It is best to have a professional contractor install these windows. This is especially true for fixed storm windows because they tend to be heavy and awkward to install. However, if you feel comfortable as a do-it-yourselfer, you can order your storm windows online or at any department store. Custom-made magnetic storm windows may not be readily available so you may need to order them from a specialty window manufacturer.
If you have traditional single-paned windows, more than likely they are not energy efficient. Even if the glass is pretty thick and sturdy, you still may feel a draft every now and again. If the glass is too thin, you may have an issue with too much noise as well. The best type of storm windows for a situation like this would be triple-track storm windows.
They are called triple-tracks because they have three sections that hold the top sash, bottom sash and screen. You can easily remove each piece whenever you want to clean them. You can also raise the window up and down whenever you feel like letting natural air into the house.
If you wish to protect a thin piece of bathroom glass or a leaded glass window, you can purchase fixed storm windows. Fixed storms are stationary pieces of glass surrounded by a frame. They are usually pretty durable and some of them come with a light tint for energy efficiency. Once you put a fixed storm window over your existing window, you will not be able to remove it easily. They were not meant to open and close like triple-track storms. Their sole purpose is to provide permanent protection for a window that may be too old or too thin.
If you want the least expensive alternative, you can install magnetic storm windows. These storm windows are usually made out of plexiglass or some sort of plastic. Their lightweight makes them easy to handle, replace, and remove when necessary. Magnetic storm windows are for the interior of the home. Their main purpose is to block out wind. They do very little for sound protection but if they have a slight tint, they will protect furniture and rugs from excessive sunlight.
It is best to have a professional contractor install these windows. This is especially true for fixed storm windows because they tend to be heavy and awkward to install. However, if you feel comfortable as a do-it-yourselfer, you can order your storm windows online or at any department store. Custom-made magnetic storm windows may not be readily available so you may need to order them from a specialty window manufacturer.
Upgrade and Insulate Windows to Combat Rising Oil Heat Costs
The price of oil heat will rise significantly in the future. The amount of a typical bill will vary from area to area. According to the U.S. Energy Information Association, homeowners can expect to see an increase of 10% from the previous winter. This is due to the rising cost of crude oil which seems to be in the area of $100 per barrel in 2011. This is quite a jump from where it was in the past. Crude oil used to sell for $24 per barrel less than 10 years prior.
Switching from oil heat to natural gas may help you save some money. However, this is an expensive process which could end up costing you more than paying your bill. The best way to save money during these months aside from using less heat is by properly insulating your windows and doors.
According to Energysavers.gov, windows and doors that are not properly insulated can account for 10-25% of the total bill. If heating costs continue to rise, this additional 10-25% can really put a homeowner in a difficult financial situation. If they let the costs rise too much, they may find themselves moving out of their home and even downgrading their lifestyle.
If you are having a home built, or if you are replacing the windows on your home, Make sure the windows you use have an Energystar seal of approval. This will help you save the 10-25% that the average home loses in energy costs each year.
If your home currently has Energystar approved windows, you are in better shape than most individuals. If it does not, you will need to seal and insulate your windows to reduce costs. You can either do it on your own or hire a contractor that knows how to find leaks around windows and in places such as attics and basements where the most leaks are usually present.
If you wish to do the job on your own, you can find help with the Energystar DIY Guide. It will help you locate all your leaks around your windows and home. It will also help you make the improvements safely and properly. To get started, you can read or download the Energystar DIY Guide from their website.
Switching from oil heat to natural gas may help you save some money. However, this is an expensive process which could end up costing you more than paying your bill. The best way to save money during these months aside from using less heat is by properly insulating your windows and doors.
According to Energysavers.gov, windows and doors that are not properly insulated can account for 10-25% of the total bill. If heating costs continue to rise, this additional 10-25% can really put a homeowner in a difficult financial situation. If they let the costs rise too much, they may find themselves moving out of their home and even downgrading their lifestyle.
If you are having a home built, or if you are replacing the windows on your home, Make sure the windows you use have an Energystar seal of approval. This will help you save the 10-25% that the average home loses in energy costs each year.
If your home currently has Energystar approved windows, you are in better shape than most individuals. If it does not, you will need to seal and insulate your windows to reduce costs. You can either do it on your own or hire a contractor that knows how to find leaks around windows and in places such as attics and basements where the most leaks are usually present.
If you wish to do the job on your own, you can find help with the Energystar DIY Guide. It will help you locate all your leaks around your windows and home. It will also help you make the improvements safely and properly. To get started, you can read or download the Energystar DIY Guide from their website.
Tax Credits for Window Installation Projects Ending Soon
U.S. homeowners who install energy-efficient windows throughout their home qualify for a Federal tax credit until December 31, 2011. This tax credit may extend into 2012 and beyond, but for now, their is no notice stating this tax credit will be available past the end of the year.
Credits are 10% of the product costs minus labor charges. The amount of the credit caps at $200 for windows / skylights and $500 for doors. Products must have the Energy Star label. Storm windows, commercial windows, and window tint and film does not qualify. Block glass replacement and installation projects are eligible for this tax credit.
Individuals must own and live in the home where the renovation will take place. New home construction and rental properties do not qualify. It does however include houseboats, mobile homes, co-ops, and condominiums. Certain manufactured homes may qualify as well, but in order to be certain, it is best to check your home's eligibility before spending money on renovations.
In order to receive the tax credit, you must fill out and send in form 5695 along with your regular tax documents. You must also send in a copy of your receipts and your window/door product information.
It is always a good idea to check the Energy Star Website before starting any project. You may qualify for a tax credit, rebate, or grant without even knowing it. Whether you are a contractor, real estate agent, or homeowner, you can receive helpful information by visiting Energystar.gov
Credits are 10% of the product costs minus labor charges. The amount of the credit caps at $200 for windows / skylights and $500 for doors. Products must have the Energy Star label. Storm windows, commercial windows, and window tint and film does not qualify. Block glass replacement and installation projects are eligible for this tax credit.
Individuals must own and live in the home where the renovation will take place. New home construction and rental properties do not qualify. It does however include houseboats, mobile homes, co-ops, and condominiums. Certain manufactured homes may qualify as well, but in order to be certain, it is best to check your home's eligibility before spending money on renovations.
In order to receive the tax credit, you must fill out and send in form 5695 along with your regular tax documents. You must also send in a copy of your receipts and your window/door product information.
It is always a good idea to check the Energy Star Website before starting any project. You may qualify for a tax credit, rebate, or grant without even knowing it. Whether you are a contractor, real estate agent, or homeowner, you can receive helpful information by visiting Energystar.gov
Review of Top Rated Window Manufacturers
When it is time to replace or install new windows in your home, you want to be sure you are getting the best product so you can feel good about your purchase. Replacing windows is an expensive project that no one wants to take on more than once within a ten or twenty year time period.
In order to do it once and do it right, you must take two factors into consideration. First, you must find an installer or installation company that has the skills and experience to do the job correctly. Second, you need to find the best windows on the market so you know your product will withstand years of exposure to the sun, rain, and heavy winds.
Most well-known companies have installation services as well. However, if you know a contractor personally who completed work for you in the past, it is better to use their services. This is especially true if you have a bond with the contractor. He or she will be more willing to negotiate a price with you and make the job right so you can be satisfied with your purchase.
Below is a short list of top-rated window manufacturers that stood the test of time:
Andersen Windows - Established in 1903, this company is responsible for introducing some unique innovations into the industry. Their inventions include the Andersen Master Casement Window, the Perma-Shield Cladding System, and their development of Fibrex material. Andersen has a variety of windows for rooms, entrance areas, foyers, and commercial buildings. Their products are very durable and preferred by most builders and contractors.
Andersen works with authorized servicing dealers. you can request an installation by visiting their website or you can purchase their windows and use your own contractor.
Pella Windows - Some of the most stylish and energy efficient windows on the market comes from the Pella company. They have windows and doors of all types including casement, awning, sliding glass, double hung,
specialty windows, and more. They also provide free in-home consultations so customers can know exactly what size, shape, and style of windows to purchase for their homes.
Pella has a full support system on their website. They also offer installation services and excellent warranties as well.
Jeld-Wen - This is a good choice for the individual looking for a durable window at an affordable price. These windows are also pretty easy to find since most of the large home-improvement stores have them in stock. Jeld-Wen has a variety of windows and doors in wood, fiberglass, vinyl, aluminum, and steel casements. This company operates worldwide with locations in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
If you do not have your own window installer, you can search for reliable contractors by visiting Ratemycontractors.com
In order to do it once and do it right, you must take two factors into consideration. First, you must find an installer or installation company that has the skills and experience to do the job correctly. Second, you need to find the best windows on the market so you know your product will withstand years of exposure to the sun, rain, and heavy winds.
Most well-known companies have installation services as well. However, if you know a contractor personally who completed work for you in the past, it is better to use their services. This is especially true if you have a bond with the contractor. He or she will be more willing to negotiate a price with you and make the job right so you can be satisfied with your purchase.
Below is a short list of top-rated window manufacturers that stood the test of time:
Andersen Windows - Established in 1903, this company is responsible for introducing some unique innovations into the industry. Their inventions include the Andersen Master Casement Window, the Perma-Shield Cladding System, and their development of Fibrex material. Andersen has a variety of windows for rooms, entrance areas, foyers, and commercial buildings. Their products are very durable and preferred by most builders and contractors.
Andersen works with authorized servicing dealers. you can request an installation by visiting their website or you can purchase their windows and use your own contractor.
Pella Windows - Some of the most stylish and energy efficient windows on the market comes from the Pella company. They have windows and doors of all types including casement, awning, sliding glass, double hung,
specialty windows, and more. They also provide free in-home consultations so customers can know exactly what size, shape, and style of windows to purchase for their homes.
Pella has a full support system on their website. They also offer installation services and excellent warranties as well.
Jeld-Wen - This is a good choice for the individual looking for a durable window at an affordable price. These windows are also pretty easy to find since most of the large home-improvement stores have them in stock. Jeld-Wen has a variety of windows and doors in wood, fiberglass, vinyl, aluminum, and steel casements. This company operates worldwide with locations in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
If you do not have your own window installer, you can search for reliable contractors by visiting Ratemycontractors.com
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