Are there Benefits to Vinyl Windows?

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Vinyl windows were introduced to the industry over 30 years ago as a more cost-efficient way to replace windows. They have grown from a small segment of the market to the most popular form of replacement window out there. Before they were introduced, homes and businesses used wood and aluminum frames exclusively. Now, vinyl windows have overtaken their popularity for a variety of reasons. Here are just a few benefits of vinyl windows that will help you understand why they are so popular in Dallas, TX and other areas of the country.

-Strong Durability
Vinyl windows don’t have to be painted or sanded (unlike wood windows) in order to remain strong and durable. They do their job for decades without peeling, cracking, fading, rotting, or even scratching. With some basic maintenance like light cleaning on occasion, they’ll look as good as new for years to come.

-Energy Efficiency
Vinyl windows give you better thermal protection than wood or aluminum options. They are designed with energy efficiency in mind and modern technology has even given them higher efficiency options like low-e coating, insulating gas, and multiple panes of glass, among others.

-Lack of Environmental Impact
Vinyl windows last longer than wood or aluminum so they don’t have to be replaced nearly as often. That makes them a friendly choice when it comes to the environment. Plus, they aren’t taking down trees in order to create the frames.

-Style Selections
When vinyl windows first came out, it’s true, they were limited when it came to colors and styles. But now, vinyl windows come in a number of different design and colors options. There are literally thousands of style combinations that can help you match your home’s existing décor.

-Flexibility
Vinyl windows work great in homes and businesses because they have a fixed pane or can come in special shapes or colors. They are popular because they are practical for any room or use.

-Affordable Option
One of the biggest reasons vinyl windows are so popular is because of their affordability. They are the most inexpensive option on the market. Not only do they save you money up front, but you continue to save during their lifespan. First, you save in utility bills because they are highly energy efficient. And second, you save in maintenance since you don’t have to buy materials to keep them looking nice.

Work with Southwest Door & Window
If you are starting to realize that you want the benefits of vinyl windows Plano, TX in your home, then it’s time to call Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212. We’d love to offer you a free consultation to you can get all the information you need on the other benefits of vinyl windows you can have in your Dallas, TX home. The list is long, but we’ll answer any questions you have and go over anything you’d like! Stop by and see our vinyl windows in our showroom at 10255 Miller Road Dallas, TX 75238.

Window Condensation Tips

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When you see condensation on your windows, you might be alarmed. Are your windows failing? Are your energy bills about to skyrocket? Do you need replacement windows? Before you start to panic, take a deep breath and think about condensation closer in your Dallas, TX home. Not all condensation requires replacement windows. And you might even be able to reduce the condensation yourself. Keep reading for some tips!

Interior Condensation

When you see condensation on the inside of your window’s glass, the warm air in your home coming into contact with the cooler glass causes it. That’s not uncommon during the winter in Dallas, even though it doesn’t get as cold as other areas of the country. The glass surfaces are usually the coolest place in your home and the water will form as droplets on the inside of the window. IF the interior air is drier, it will evaporate. You might want to get rid of drafty windows or doors or put a dehumidifier in your home in the rooms that are causing issues.

Exterior Condensation

You will see exterior condensation most often during the Dallas, TX summers. It comes about when the humidity is high outside, when there isn’t much window, and when the skies are clear. It forms the same way it does inside. In order to get rid of condensation on the outside of your windows, open them up on a nice day to warm the glass. You can also trim bushes nearby to get more air circulation. And you can raise the air conditioning temperature inside ea bit to try and help.

Between the Panes Condensation

The biggest concern is when you see condensation between your panes of glass. And with good reason! While there are things you can do when you see it on the interior or exterior, there isn’t much you can do about condensation between panes of glass. Seeing it there means that you have a broken seal in your windows and they are not insulating well if they are allowing water between the panes. Furthermore, they aren’t going to be energy efficiency any longer and they could start to cause water damage. Really, your best bet with condensation in these cases is to get replacement windows.

replacement windows Dallas TX

Do you need Replacement Windows?

So, where is your condensation falling? Can you deal with it inside or outside of your house or do you need help in replacing your windows due to condensation between the panes? If you aren’t sure, contact Southwest Door & Window for a free consultation at 214-341-2212. We’re here to answer your questions and we won’t tell you that you need replacement windows Dallas, TX unless that’s really the best option for your home. You can also stop by, see us and pick our brains in our showroom at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238. It can help to see replacement windows in person to get an idea of what they can do for your home.

When is it Time for New Windows?

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If your windows are starting to show their age and you want to start thinking about replacing them, you might wonder, “When is it time for new windows?” Since you live in Dallas, TX, weather isn’t a huge concern. However, there are some times of the year that are better than others. And there are also some situations that warrant immediate replacement while others can wait. Here are some suggestions for you as you consider the process.

Your windows look decent, but a few of them have a crack in the glass.
When it is time for new windows?
Whenever you are comfortable with the process.
A few little cracks aren’t a dire situation, but they are showing you that your windows aren’t performing as they used to. Since the Dallas winters don’t usually get bitterly cold, you might want to move forward with the process sooner rather than later. The window companies aren’t as busy in the winter and you can get it over with and start saving money right away. But if you’d rather wait until spring, that will work as well.

Your windows look warped and there is some decay and maybe even some mold around them.
When is it time for new windows?
Now!
When your windows are so far gone that you can see their warped nature, their rotting, and their decay, you want them out of your house as soon as possible. They aren’t energy efficient and they are costing you a lot of money on your energy bills that you shouldn’t have to pay. They also could be causing water damage to the walls of your home or other areas, which is expensive to fix as well. Get them replaced ASAP, winter or not!

Your windows don’t open or close very well.
When it is time for new windows?
Now or later, as long as you are careful.
If your windows don’t function like they used to, there are probably other issues within them. If some of your windows are painted shut or you can’t get them to close once you have them open, they aren’t operating nicely. They probably aren’t as energy efficient as they used to be, either. For safety sake, and for your energy bills, it’s really best to get them replaced as soon as you can. However, if you want to wait until sprig or summer, keep the sticking windows closed and locked so they don’t slam shut on fingers and you can get by for a bit longer.

Not Sure?
If you don’t know what direction to go with your situation, call Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212 and tell us what’s going on with your windows. We’ll give you a free consultation and we promise not to advise anything we wouldn’t recommend for our own homes. You can also stop by and see our new window Dallas, TX options in person at our showroom. Visit 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238! We look forward to seeing you soon.

Making a Statement with Colorful Replacement Windows

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If you are looking to boost the curb appeal of your home in Frisco, TX, and you are already thinking about new vinyl windows, you can get a lot from the project. New vinyl replacement windows will, of course, give you higher levels of energy efficiency. They’ll function like a dream and raise the property value of your house, too. Even an ordinary color will look nice on your home, but this is your chance to truly make a statement about your style. Here are a few ideas to make your house stand out with the color of your replacement windows.

-Match the Tone

If you have a brown house, you’re not alone. But that doesn’t mean you have to go with standard white replacement windows or even windows that match the color of your home. What you might want to do is find a tone that goes along with the house, but also stands out. Consider a dark chocolate brown to blend with the color tone, and yet stand out. Or, if you have a darker brown house, get something in a lighter brown tone to highlight the windows. Stay in the color tone, but choose something off the siding color to make it stand out a bit more.

-Contract Colors

There’s nothing that makes replacement windows stand out more than a contrasting color. If you have a white home, you are lucky. You can go with just about any color and pull it off. You can stick with something classic, like black, or you can get something brighter and bolder. Contrasting colors draws the eye to the attractive replacement windows and frames their beauty. It also gives your home depth and something interesting.

-Consider the Door

If you have an entry door you love, you will want to include it in the decision or replacement windows and their colors. If the door is something you will keep as is, you might want the windows to match the door in order to draw everything all together. If the door is too bright, choose a replacement window color that complements the door, but doesn’t overdo the color scheme.

Frisco TX replacement windows

When you first started thinking about Frisco, TX replacement windows, you were concerned about the materials you wanted for the frames, the energy efficiency, the number of glass panes and so on. These items are all very important, but so is the lasting impression you give from the curb. If you aren’t much of a designer and don’t get into colors yourself, call the professionals at Southwest Door & Window for advice. We’d be happy to offer you a free consultation at 214-341-2212. You can also take a look at our replacement windows in person at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238. Take some color samples with you and hold them up against your house in the natural light. And take your time with this important decision! We won’t pressure you in any way. We’re here to help!

Reasons to Do Away with Wood Windows

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If you have an older home, chances are you have wood windows installed. While they are beautiful and lovely (at least they were when they were new), it can be a hassle to get new windows that are also made of wood. Wood is beautiful, yes, but it can cause a lot of issues over time. Here are a few reasons to do away with wood windows and go with something more advanced, like vinyl windows, for your Frisco, TX home.

Reason 1: You’ll Pay More for Wood

The reality is that wood is a limited resource and it’s in high demand for a number of different areas, just in the construction world alone. While wood windows are cheaper than some, they can never beat vinyl windows in price. If you are looking to keep to a budget when replacing windows, vinyl windows are always the best option.

Reason 2: Wood Requires Maintenance

If you leave a piece of wood outside, it will rot away over time because of the sun, rain, and other elements. It can also warp, splinter, and crack. To prevent that from happening to your windows, you have to maintain and repair them every year or so. That maintenance (including painting, scraping, and staining) not only takes time, but also costs you extra money.

Reason 3: Wood Burns Fast

When you have a bonfire, you use wood. It’s meant to burn, right? So when you have wood windows, they can burn as well, sometimes very rapidly. Sure, vinyl windows can burn as well, but they are very fire resistant and only burn after being exposed to very high temperatures for a long period of time.

Reason 4: Wood Adds Value, But Lessens Appeal

Sure, wood is beautiful and it is valuable as well, even on windows. However, when potential buyers see wood windows, they see dollar signs. They know that the windows are going to need upkeep and they know that they won’t last as long as vinyl windows. They are less likely to offer you a higher price for your home if you have wood windows because of that knowledge.

Frisco TX vinyl windows

If you have decided that, while your current wood windows are lovely, you are ready to make a change in the replacement process, Southwest Door & Window is here to help. We have all the knowledge you need about vinyl windows and we are happy to share our professional expertise with you. Give us a call at 214-341-2212 for a free consultation or in-home estimate. We’re here to be by your side and answer all the questions you have about Frisco, TX vinyl windows from the beginning of your project all the way to the end. Even if you know you want vinyl windows, there are other decisions to make and we’re here to lay them out for you so you can make informed decisions based on the options. Come visit us in person at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238!

The Pros and Cons of Vinyl Windows

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If you look at older homes, they almost always have wood windows. Wood windows, however, are a construction solution of the past. Wood is hardly ever used on windows in new homes, offices, or apartments. Wood brings a lot of maintenance with it and it warps, cracks, and splinters over time. The only problem is, many homeowners just love the way it looks. If you can get over the warm look of wood, there are great alternatives on the market, like vinyl windows. Vinyl windows have quickly become the most popular option for windows in new homes as well as replacements in older homes. If it’s time for windows in your Plano, TX home, you might want to take a look at the pros and cons of vinyl windows.

Pros

Vinyl Windows are made from PVC

PVC is a safe, stable compound that you find in plumbing pipes. You know pipes are strong and sturdy, so windows made from the same material are as well. At the same time, the stable material will not warp or even flex. The windows will stay as they are now for the duration.

Vinyl Windows are Durable

Unlike wood, vinyl windows won’t rust over time because of the rain in Plano, TX. They also won’t warp in the sun and they never splinter or rot. Plus, they don’t require any maintenance to stay looking nice and functioning well. They are highly weather-resistant, even in the hot temperatures that are often prevalent in Plano.

Vinyl Windows are Low Maintenance

PVC materials are so popular, in part because they are known as one of the world’s lowest-maintenance materials in the construction world. You don’t have to paint them, in fact, you can’t! If they get a little scratch here and there, you can polish it out with a smooth effect with very little effort. Just wash it off from time to time and you’re good to go.

Vinyl Windows Cost Less

Vinyl windows are more economical than wood windows in a number of ways. First, they cost less up front in the initial investment you make. Second, they cost less long-term because they require no painting and other maintenance. And third, they last longer and give you further energy savings.

Cons

Vinyl Windows Aren’t Wood

It’s true that vinyl windows have a lot of benefits, but they still aren’t wood windows. They don’t have the same look, though some of them come pretty close. If you are stuck on the wood look, you may not be able to get past that in order to go with vinyl windows.

Plano TX vinyl windows

If you are able to get past the wood look and feel, then Plano, TX vinyl windows are perfect for you! Give Southwest Door & Window a call at 214-341-2212 for a free consultation and in-home estimate. You can also stop by our showroom and see our vinyl windows in person at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238. We’re happy to assist you throughout the project.

Storm Windows or Replacement Windows?

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If you need replacement windows, you might wonder if you should go with regular replacement windows or if storm windows are better. The final decision has been quite a battle among designers, contractors, homeowners, and architects. There are a lot of factors to consider and compare, and every situation is unique. If you are able to assess the differences between the two, you can make a decision based on your needs. Whenever it comes to replacement windows in Plano, TX, you need to proceed slowly and with caution.

Storm Windows

Storm windows refer to windows that are installed on the outside of your primary house windows. They give extra wind and weather protection if there is a storm. They can also help normalize the temperature inside your home. Storm windows are custom ordered to fit over the windows you already have and they come in a number of colors and styles. They are usually installed outside, but you can go with interior storm windows as well. They come in two or three-track configurations.

Replacement Windows

Replacement windows refer to taking out old windows and replacing them with new ones. Replacement windows, with their advanced technology, can offer you savings on energy, maintenance, and in other areas. They are durable and offer good guarantees as well. You can customize these windows and get the performance and durability you want along with an attractive aesthetic. They are an energy efficient solution for any home.

Making the Choice

So, what do you need? Storm windows or replacement windows? There are several things to think through when making the decision.

Your Budget

When it comes to home upgrades, you have to think about how much you can afford before you jump into any project. If money is an issue, storm windows may be the only option you can afford. They can increase your energy efficiency, but there may still be some issues with your old windows.

DIY Options

If you are a handy individual, you may be able to install storm windows yourself. On the other hand, replacement windows should only be installed by experts to ensure that it is done correctly.

Window Age

If you have windows that are 30 years old or older, replacement windows will save you money in the long run and it’s best to go that direction. Keep in mind that storm windows don’t change the windows you already have. They can help energy efficiency and insulation as well as protection, but old windows are old windows and you might want to just replace them to begin with.

Plano TX replacement windows

If you are looking for Plano, TX replacement windows, you want to seek professional help from the beginning. That’s why it’s smart to call Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212 for a free consultation. We’re here to let you know what we think is best for your specific situation and goals. You can stop by our showroom at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238 and take a look at replacement windows for yourself.

Single or Double-Hung Windows?

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There are a number of things you will go through as a homeowner during the process of owning your home. If you are in the same home for a long period of time, chances are you will notice your windows at some point and think about replacing some or all of them. Older windows can give you lots of problems and added expenses you don’t want. They can let in cold or hot air, for example, and increase your energy bills. They can decrease your level of safety. And they can let moisture into the home and increase mold and water damage possibilities. In many cases, replacing the windows on your Frisco, TX home is a good option. It’s not going to be inexpensive as far as renovations go, but you can control those costs based on the windows you choose.

One of the differences in costs revolves around the style you choose for your windows. Single and double-hung windows are both very popular and they each have pros and cons. Knowing the major differences between the two will help you figure out what direction you want to go with your new windows.

Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows are often the standard window that comes in new home construction, apartment buildings, and even offices. With this window style, the bottom panel moves vertically while the upper panel stays in place at all times. When opened, the bottom sash at least partially obstructs the view from the top sash. These windows are a popular choice due to cost alone. They are much cheaper than double-hung windows. You can expect to pay about 10-20% less, in fact. If you’re replacing just a few windows, it doesn’t seem like much, but when you replace a whole house full, it adds up fast. If you’re on a tight budget, single-hung windows are a great option to save on upfront costs.

But cost isn’t the only deciding factor. Keep in mind that single-hung windows will offer limited ventilation. If the room needs ventilation, they can be a detriment to that space. They are also harder to clean because the top sash does not tilt into the home so you have to clean it from outside.

Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows offer the ability to open each sash rather than just the bottom. It’s a nice feature for homes with children since you can open just the top part and keep kids safe around the windows. You can also tilt them in to clean both halves without having to go outside. They do cost more, but to many, it’s worth the extra investment.

If you are looking into windows for your home in Frisco, TX, both single and double-hung windows Frisco, TX are valid options. It all depends on your budget and your overall needs. Contact Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212 for a free consultation to go over more of the differences. You can also stop by and see both styles in our showroom at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238.

New Window Technology

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You know that as the years pass by, something new and technologically advanced comes on the scene on a regular basis. Take phones, for instance. Do you remember the first car phones? They were housed in bags and they were giant. Not many people had them, but those that did were super cool. Now, everyone runs around with a tiny phone in their pockets, which doubles as a computer and just about anything else you want it to be. Phones aren’t the only items that have technology behind them. In fact, just about everything is advancing at lightning speed. If you are considering new windows Irving, TX, for your home. You will be pleased to know that they have a lot of new technology behind them as well. Here are a few items to consider adding to your windows to make the most of their qualities in your home.

Low-E Coating
This technology is a light coat on the glass of your windows that blocks out the UV rays. You don’t have to worry about the harmful rays on your skin if you’re sitting in the sun inside your house. And you don’t have to worry about your furniture, flooring, or other items fading in the sunlight. You get the natural light you want without any of the normal dangers that come with sunlight drifting into a home.

Energy Efficiency
Windows have come a long way in energy efficiency over the past decade. There has been double-pane glass on the market for a long time, but now it’s standard and you can even upgrade to triple-pane glass. And instead of placing air between the panes, you can have argon or krypton gas placed. These gases are clear, but they are denser than air, which makes them better at insulating your home against the hot Irving air. Your house will leak less air and remain warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Hardware
A lock is a lock, right? Not exactly! Locks today are advanced and though they are easy for users to open and close, they are almost impossible to maneuver from the outside. That’s great news for the security of your home. Windows are also tight against the house now, which makes them hard to pry open as well. Anything you can do to raise the security of your home is going to make you feel safer and more comfortable inside.

If you are ready to take advantage of the new technologies windows bring today, contact Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212. We’re here to answer your questions and take you through all of the technology that windows include. We’ll go over ratings with you and make sure you understand the details so you can make an informed decision. Stop by our showroom at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238 and check out some of the options we have available. We only offer quality windows so anything you choose will bring new technology with it!

How Do Replacement Windows Work?

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If you live in an older home, you know that there are things that need to be done to bring the home up to a better standard of living. Older homes don’t have new technology included and tend to be lacking when it comes to energy efficiency and in other areas. If you are considering replacement windows for your older home in Dallas, TX, you may wonder what they can do for your home. The good news is, there are so many options on the market, you can pick and choose what your replacement windows will do! Here are a few options to consider when it comes to replacement windows.

Materials
The first thing you will want to consider with replacement windows is the material you want. It might be tempting to get whatever material you already have on your home. With an older home, that could very well be wood. While wood is beautiful and it certainly insulates well, it has a tendency to hold onto the moisture Dallas, TX has in the air and that can warp and rot the wood over time. You also have to keep in mind that you would have maintenance on wood windows. Vinyl is another option that doesn’t warp and takes no maintenance. So before you jump on the material you currently have, check out all of the options and give them consideration as well.

Insulation
You want your windows to be energy efficient and if you have an older home, pretty much anything you get will work better than the windows you currently have. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to insulating qualities. If you get double pane glass, you get more insulation. If you go with triple pane, that’s even more. The glass can come with air between the panes, which helps, but you can also upgrade to argon or krypton gas, which is clear, but denser than air so you get even more insulating qualities. The ultimate decisions are up to you.

Sun Protection
Your old windows may let the sun shine through as bright and hot as it wants to, but when you get replacement windows, you have options. If you like natural light, but you don’t want your furniture and flooring to fade so you have to replace it sooner, consider a low-e coating on your glass. This coating blocks out the harmful UV rays while allowing natural light into the home. You don’t have to worry about fading any longer!

Replacement windows can do as much or as little for your home as you’d like. Anything will be better than old windows on an old home, but you have the option to make your replacement windows Dallas, TX truly great investments. To get the most from the project, contact Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212 and we can help walk you through the process. Stop by our showroom and let’s visit about your goals for replacement windows. 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238.