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September 28, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

Home Energy Efficiency Improvements Tax Rebates

Tax rebate

Tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements are extended and expanded by the Inflation Reduction Act.

Energy Efficient Improvements Tax Rebates

According to an article in Kiplinger, “If you’re planning a few home improvements that will boost the energy efficiency of your house, you may save some money on your projects under the Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law in August. While the new law primarily helps businesses adopt more eco-friendly measures, there are incentives for homeowners to save some green, too.”

“Homeowners can cut their tax bill if they install new energy-efficient windows, doors, water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, and the like. That’s because the legislation extends and enhances two tax credits that reward “green” upgrades to your home. There are also new tax breaks for the purchase of electric vehicles and a revived tax break for installing EV recharging equipment at home. Low- and moderate-income families may also qualify for rebates if they purchase energy-efficient appliances. With these changes, it’s a little easier for American homeowners to save some green and be green.”

The Biden administration has created a website to help you determine which home improvements will qualify for the tax credits and rebates.

The new law extends through 2023 an existing program that allows homeowners to claim a credit on their federal tax returns of 30 percent off improvements to home energy efficiency, such as windows and insulation. Buyers can claim up to $600 per purchase for up to $1,200 in 2023. Your tax returns must include the Energy Star Most Efficient certification to qualify for the tax credits.

Homeowners can also claim a $150 tax credit for a home energy audit.

Getting the Savings Now. The 2022 Window & Door Tax Credit.

Current federal tax credits for specific energy-efficient improvements to existing homes are available if you purchased and installed a qualifying product in 2022. Equipment and materials can qualify for the Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit only if they meet the standards set by the Department of Energy. The manufacturer of the product can tell you whether a particular item meets those standards.

For this credit, the IRS distinguishes between two kinds of upgrades.

The first is “qualified energy efficiency improvements,” and it includes:

  • Home insulation
  • Exterior doors
  • Exterior windows and skylights
  • Certain roofing materials

The second category is “residential energy property costs.” It includes:

  • Electric heat pumps
  • Electric heat pump water heaters
  • Central air conditioning systems
  • Natural gas, propane, or oil water heaters
  • Stoves that use biomass fuel
  • Natural gas, propane, or oil furnaces
  • Natural gas, propane, or oil hot water boilers
  • Advanced circulating fans for natural gas, propane, or oil furnaces

You can claim a tax credit for 10% of the cost of “qualified energy efficiency improvements” and 100% of “residential energy property costs.” This credit is worth a maximum of $500 for all years combined, from 2006 to its expiration. Of that combined $500 limit,

  • A maximum of $200 can be for windows.
  • The maximum tax credit for a furnace circulating fan is $50.
  • The maximum credit for a furnace or boiler is $150.
  • The maximum credit for any other single residential energy property cost is $300.

How to Qualify for the Energy Efficient Improvements Tax Rebates / Credit:*

  1. Energy Efficient Improvements Tax Rebates energy star programPurchase and install qualifying windows or patio doors that meet ENERGY STAR® Windows Program version 6.0 performance requirements beginning January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022.
  2. Save your sales receipt, a copy of the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement, your product labels, or a product performance (NFRC Ratings/ ENERGY STAR Qualification) sheet with your tax documents.
    –
    Download the applicable Manufacturer’s Certification Statement for your products.**
    – Save your product performance labels from your window(s) or door(s) or take a photo of the labels on your windows(s) and door(s) and keep it with your tax documents. You can also download the Product Performance NFRC Ratings/ ENERGY STAR version 6.0 Qualifications Sheet applicable to your product. This document shows you which products meet ENERGY STAR version 6.0 performance criteria for your area (last page of the PDF).

3. Claim the tax credit associated with your qualifying purchase and installation on your Federal filing for the applicable tax year. Your tax preparer or most tax preparation software can assist with the necessary IRS form 5695.

Limitations

1. Tax credit is for the cost of the product only. The credit does not include installation costs

2. Tax credit is 10% of the amount paid up to the maximums listed below***

3. $500 total maximum lifetime tax credit for any improvements, including other eligible items as listed in Section 25C of the Internal Revenue Code

  • $200 total maximum tax credit for qualifying windows and skylights
  • $500 total maximum tax credit for all qualifying improvements, including windows or skylights

4. If combinations of windows, skylights, and doors are purchased, then the total maximum credit is $500, of which $200 is the maximum allowable for windows and skylights

5. The tax credit is an extension of the 26 USC §25C tax credit, which means all previous federal tax credits are a maximum lifetime credit. A homeowner who has already claimed the maximum applicable tax credits permitted under 26 USC §25C in previous tax years is no longer eligible for this tax credit

replacement door tax rebateIncrease joy and save money.

We know there are always plenty of home renovation projects you could take on. But home window replacement checks all the boxes — it’s a great way to increase your home’s future selling price, it will lower your monthly home energy bills, and it can add life and finesse to your day-to-day enjoyment of your home.

Updating your windows, doors, and siding increases your home’s curb appeal and helps reduce your energy bills and you may qualify for Energy Efficient Improvements Tax Rebates. Make your home more energy-efficient and reduce harmful rays. With a wide variety of colors and styles, McCann Window & Exteriors will guide you to find the perfect fit for your home.

Would You Like a Free Consultation?

Schedule a convenient, informative consultation for your window, door or siding project. Schedule a Free in-home or virtual presentation.


Disclaimers

* This is a summary of the tax credit elements related to windows and doors as outlined in Section 25C of the Internal Revenue Code as modified by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, Public Law No. 117-169, which the President signed on August 16, 2022, which among other things, extends the current tax credits in Section 25C of the Internal Revenue Code on eligible property purchased and installed through December 31, 2022.
**McCann Window & Exteriors bears no responsibility for determining whether a particular purchase or application qualifies for the tax credit. McCann Window & Exteriors does not intend to and is not providing legal or tax advice and recommends that purchasers consult their tax advisor or the IRS to determine whether the products they purchase for a particular application qualify for the tax credit.
As the ENERGY STAR version 6.0 criteria differ by climate zone, please review the ENERGY STAR requirements in the climate zone where the product will be installed and refer to the respective product NFRC Ratings/ ENERGY STAR version 6.0 Qualifications sheet to select the product. Please consult your tax planner and review all IRS guidelines. McCann Window & Exteriors is not a tax advisor.
*** These credits include the aggregate of all current and prior taxable years and cannot exceed the maximums listed for any taxpayer.

Sources:

www.kiplinger.com

https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanenergy

https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits

https://www.nytimes.com/by/coral-davenport, “How the New Climate Law Can Save You Thousands of Dollars”

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/home-ownership/energy-tax-credit-which-home-improvements-qualify/L5rZH56ex

Filed Under: energy-efficient windows, Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows, Tax Rebates

March 14, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

Window style. Which is window replacement style right for you?

 

casement-vs-double-hung-replacement-windows

CREDITS: Originally posted by author Mark Mead on March 01, 2020, in Pella’s Global Blogs. Images courtesy of Pella.

Casement vs. Double-hung: Which Replacement Window Style is Right for You? The answer depends on your needs and the style of your home.

Each window style has unique benefits. Read on to explore the features and options associated with casement and replacement double-hung windows.

Increase the Amount of Light

One of the primary purposes of windows is to let light into the home. Both casement and double-hung windows achieve this goal, but there are differences. The casement windows utilize a single-window sash, whereas double-hung windows use two window sashes in the same size frame. As a result, a double-hung window will have a check rail where the two sashes meet, typically in the middle of the window. The check rail not only blocks your view but also cuts down on the light that will enter the home. If you are looking for more light, replacement casement windows may be the way to go.

window styles

Improve Air Ventilation

Most people like to open their windows to let the fresh air into their homes. Double-hung and casement windows both open, but a double-hung window can only open one-half of the total opening because the sashes slide up and down over each other. In comparison, the entire sash on the casement window cranks out, opening the whole window. The benefit of casement windows is that the sash can catch the wind and redirect it into the home when opened. That’s why it’s essential to hinge casement windows so they can catch the prevailing breeze. A plus for double-hung windows is that either sash can be opened independently of the other. For safety purposes, many people with pets and small children will lower only the top sash, allowing air in but protecting the lower part of the screen from claws and small hands.

Casement Windows Offer Optimal Airflow and Natural Light

Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward from the turn of a handle. Their uncluttered views and outward opening design allow optimal natural light and airflow.

Both modern replacement casement and double-hung windows are easy to open. Two things for homeowners to consider are the window placement and the interior window treatment, such as blinds or shades. If the window is over a sink or counter, it may be difficult for someone to reach over and lift a double-hung sash. A casement window with an easily accessible crank might be a better option. Conversely, if you have shades or blinds on the interior of your windows, they may hang up on the casement crank and not sit properly. A double-hung window without a protruding crank may be a better choice.

Cleaning Your Replacement Window

Modern casement and double-hung windows have cleaning features that make it easy to clean the glass from the interior. For example, Pella double-hung windows pivot into the home at the bottom of both the top and bottom sash. Likewise, when open, Pella casement windows have enough clearance between the sash and the frame to allow homeowners to clean the exterior glass from the interior.

The Aesthetics of Your Window Style

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but often the style of window we use is dictated by the architecture of our home. Although there are no concrete rules, a consensus is that double-hung windows are more traditional and historic, while casement windows are more modern and contemporary. This doesn’t mean that you can’t replace double-hung windows with casement windows, or vice versa. You’ll need to understand how the change will affect your home’s overall look and curb appeal.

Replacement Window Sizes

Double-hung and casement windows come in many different sizes and configurations, but some fundamental differences. Double-hung windows can typically offer much larger operable windows than casement windows. So, if you are trying to fill a large opening and want it to open, a double-hung is probably your best bet. If you choose casement windows for the same large opening you might need to put in two casement windows, adding to the cost and cutting down on visible glass due to the additional frame and sash.

Replacement Window Screens

Another difference between double-hung and casement windows is how the screens work. Double-hung windows have a screen, either full or half, that sits on the outside of the window, so it will cover the exterior, changing the aesthetics and cutting down on the visible light that enters the home. Replacement casement windows have a screen that sits on the interior of the window frame. This screen covers the opening, hides the window’s sash, and cuts down on the visible light that enters the home.

The good news is that Pella offers a retractable hidden screen on both double-hung and casement windows. These screens are available on select products. The screen is there when you need it, gone when you don’t. When the screen is retracted, more light enters your home, the beauty of your new windows is not hidden behind fiberglass screen cloth, and your screens are protected from dust, pets, and little hands.

A Few Last Things to Consider

Since replacement windows often go into older homes, homeowners often have to deal with existing conditions and limitations. For example, if the window you are replacing goes out onto a deck, you may want to use a double-hung because a casement window, when open, would swing out and potentially impede traffic on the deck.

Another issue is egress in bedroom windows. When replacing windows in a bedroom, homeowners will want to ensure as much clear opening as possible if someone needs to exit the room through the window. Depending on the shape and size of the opening, one type of window may be better than the other.

As you can see, double-hung windows and casement windows each have their differences and different applications. In the end, it is a combination of many features and benefits that will decide which window style you choose for your window replacement project. Although getting started with window replacement decisions may seem daunting, our expert consultants will be with you every step of the way.

Schedule your free in-home consultation, and our experts at McCann Window & Exteriors will review your needs and offer the best solutions for your home renovation project.

About The Author
Mark Mead is the President of Gunton Corporation, a Pella Window and Door distributor. He has been in the fenestration industry for more than 28 years.

[fenestration: the arrangement of windows and doors on the elevations of a building.]

Filed Under: Home Exteriors, Home Improvement Tips, Pella, Replacement Windows, Replacement Windows Evanston, Replacement Windows North Shore

October 7, 2019 by Kevin McCann

Got Wet Windows? Don’t Sweat Condensation

Window condensation

 

wipe away window condensation

Take steps to put a damper on dampness

Fogged windows are a fact of life, but frequent and lasting condensation on your windows can be a problem. It shows up in two ways. First, too much moisture inside your home encourages your window frame to rot and mold to grow. Second, ongoing condensation can be a sign that your house is not “breathing” properly and needs better ventilation.

Condensation happens whenever warm, moist air contacts a cool surface; we’ve all seen a drinking glass “sweat” on a summer afternoon. In terms of windows, condensation can happen either indoors or outdoors. Exterior window condensation occurs when humid air encounters cool window glass, such as when you run the air conditioner on a muggy summer night and wake up to drippy windows outside. When the temperature drops, the first place you will see any condensation is on the windows.

The bigger—and more common—the issue is interior condensation. As winter comes on, the warm, moist air meeting cold window glass will be indoors. And that can mean water running down your windows and puddling along with window frames and windowsills. Interestingly, large windows may be more likely to show condensation than smaller windows, and so will windows protected from the wind. Also, new windows may have more condensation than old windows because they’re snugger and more airtight. (We’ll get into the ventilation thing in a moment.)

Some humidity indoors is unavoidable and absolutely necessary. Don’t get upset over the occasional foggy window. However, if you regularly have beads of water running down your windows, something could be awry.

Condensation on double-glazed windows. Is it bad seals or indoor humidity?

Before calling for a repair service, try this easy test. Run your finger through the area where the condensation is formed. If your finger gets wet and leaves a trail through the condensation, it’s on the room side of the glass. That tells you that condensation is forming because of excessive indoor humidity.

Consider taking steps if:

➢ The air in your home smells musty.
➢ You see mold, mildew or rot around your windows.
➢ Even after outdoor temperatures warm up, condensation clings to your windows.
➢ You notice damp walls, staining, peeling wallpaper, or blistering paint.

kitchen window renovation

Time to Clear the Air – of Humidity and Pollutants

What to do? First, dry out. Ongoing condensation is a sign your humidity is too high. Lots of things affect indoor humidity—cooking, showering, running a dishwasher or humidifier—even your houseplants. (Plus breathing, as we know.) Other less common contributors are pets, fish tanks, and firewood you might be storing indoors. Note how many of these items are in your home and see what you can do to reduce their impact. If you use a humidifier, for example, try turning it down or running it less often. Use the exhaust fans in your bathroom or kitchen every time you shower or cook, and let them run for 15 to 20 minutes. If you have lots of plants sitting near your windows (so they get sunlight, duh), consider moving them to another spot where moisture from their leaves and potting soil won’t boost humidity near your windows. Also consider purchasing a dehumidifier or a prepackaged desiccant product like DampRid, if simpler measures don’t work.

Then, stir the air.

Good air circulation helps fight condensation. It’s possible your home isn’t “breathing” enough, especially if you’ve got newer windows and have thoroughly insulated and weather-stripped. Today’s airtight and energy-efficient windows may cut heating costs, but they also reduce air leaks, and so seal in humidity and contaminants. The easiest and quickest way to boost ventilation (although it won’t help your energy bill) is by opening the windows a little now and then. Another option is to run your ceiling fans. Stirring warmer air near the ceiling into cooler air near the floor can boost evaporation on your windows.

Pella Windows
We are a Pella Platinum Certified Contractor

How Can We Help?

At McCann Windows & Exteriors, we don’t want you steamed up about foggy windows or excess condensation. Let us help you get clear on the best ways to keep you and your home in tip-top shape all winter, especially when it comes to windows, doors and exterior renovations. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free! Please just give us a call at 847-562-1212 or schedule a free consultation here. We’ll be right over.

Yours,
Kevin McCann

Filed Under: Customer Service, Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows

September 19, 2019 by Kyle Akerman

Prep for the Polar Vortex — Insulating Your Windows for Winter

keep the cold out

Simple Tips to Keep Heat In, Cold Out

Like getting out of your comfort zone? Good! Winter’s coming. Prep for the polar vortex. While I enjoy a cool breeze on my face as much as the next guy, I don’t like it when the cool breeze is in my living room, coming from a draft. And I don’t like opening energy bills that cause me to say words loudly.

But insulation can help. Insulation is any material used to slow or stop the transfer of energy—whether heat, electricity, or sound—between spaces. Nature’s laws say the heat will always flow from warmer to colder spaces. In your house, that looks like warmth leaking out your roof, walls, or windows in the winter, and as sun battling your air conditioner for control of the indoor temperature in summer. Both can make your energy bills soar.

Fall is an excellent time to evaluate and improve your home’s insulation. While the ancient Greeks and Romans didn’t get energy bills, they still understood that insulation increases the comfort of home. They used natural materials such as stone and cork in their houses, while our pioneers relied on mud, straw, or wood shavings. Depending on its age, your home probably employs some form of natural fiber (such as cellulose) or synthetic fill (such as fiberglass, foam board, or mineral wool) to manage temperature extremes.

Windows, however, are another story. Although glass is relatively inert with poor thermal conductivity, heat still escapes faster per square foot of glass than through any other surface in the home, such as floors, walls, roofs, etc.

So what can you do to keep heat indoors in the months ahead? Here are some choices for insulating your windows.

DIY Options with Caulk and Window Film

Start with the obvious stuff—gaps or cracks in the frames around your windows. Caulk works well here, and it comes in different forms. Rope caulk is actually a super-long string of putty that you unwind and press into cracks with your fingers. Latex or silicone-based caulk comes in tubes requiring a caulk gun to install. While trickier to apply, it’s the longer-lasting solution.

Then there are the windows themselves. If you don’t mind losing your view (say, in the basement or attic), consider sticking bubble wrap to the inside of your window. Spray a thin layer of water on a clean window and push the bubble wrap into place. Then secure the edges with painter’s tape so you don’t mar the finish when removing the wrap in spring.

Plastic window films work the same way, but without impairing your view. Many home improvement and hardware stores sell kits containing double-sided sticky tape and plastic film pre-cut to standard window sizes. On the inside of your home, apply the sticky tape to the window frame; then press the plastic film into place. Heat the film with a blow dryer to shrink it and form a tight seal.

Another option is reflective—or low-emissivity (“low E”)—window film. Again, apply this product directly to the interior window surface. Instead of forming an air pocket, though, low-E window film blocks thermal energy from crossing a reflective surface on the film. This holds in heat during winter and reflects the sun away from your windows in summer, reducing solar gain.

prep for polar vortexAre Replacement Windows for You?

The most permanent solution, of course, is replacing old, leaky windows with new, energy-efficient ones. If you’re considering this route, here are three factors to weigh.

Window frames. The material surrounding your window contributes to its overall energy efficiency. At one end of the continuum are metal frames, like aluminum, which conduct heat rapidly. This makes them poor choices as far as insulation. In the middle of the continuum are frames made of synthetic materials such as fiberglass or vinyl. Not only are these materials less conductive; they may also come with air cavities or hollows that can be filled with insulation. Best from an insulation standpoint, though, are wooden frames, as long as they aren’t clad in metal, since wood is poor at conducting heat.

Window glazing. Windows today often come with more than one layer of glass, precisely because of the energy efficiencies involved. Double-glazed windows incorporate two panes of glass in the frame, while triple-glazed windows have (you guessed it) three panes. It’s not uncommon for inert gases to be sandwiched between panes for greater insulating properties. (See below.)

Insulating gases between glass layers. Inert gases are substances such as argon or krypton that are chemically non-reactive. Because they are non-reactive, sealing these gases inside double-and triple-paned windows minimizes heat transfer and increases insulation properties. While more expensive, these gas-filled windows also have the best insulating properties.

How Can We Help You Prep for the Polar Vortex?

At McCann Windows & Exteriors, we want you snug as a bug in a rug all winter. Let us help you figure that out by evaluating the fit and energy efficiency of your home’s windows and doors. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free! Please just give us a call at (847) 892-4071 or fill out our schedule form here. We’ll be right over.

Warmly yours,

Kevin McCann

 

1 “Insulation,” Merriam-Webster online dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulation.

2 Mike O’Hara, “The Story of Insulation: A Tale to Warm More Than Your Heart,” accessed Sept. 15, 2019: https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/story-insulation-tale-warm-heart/

3 “Types of Insulation,” Department of Energy, accessed Sept. 15, 2019: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/insulation/types-insulation.

4 Sarma Pisupati, “Windows and Heat Loss,” EGEE 102: Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection, Penn State College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, accessed Sept. 16, 2019: https://www.e-education.psu.edu/egee102/node/2017.

5 Dwayne Hogan, “5 Ways to Insulate Your Apartment Windows for Winter,” Move.org, updated Dec. 18, 2015: https://www.move.org/5-ways-insulate-apartment-windows-winter/

6 Ibid.

7 Lee Wallender, “How to Insulate Windows,” The Spruce, updated Feb. 8, 2019: https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-insulate-windows-4159324

8 Hogan, “5 Ways to Insulate Your Apartment Windows for Winter”: https://www.move.org/5-ways-insulate-apartment-windows-winter/

9 “Window Types and Technologies,” Department of Energy, accessed Sept. 16, 2019: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/window-types-and-technologies

1o “Window Types and Technologies,” https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/window-types-and-technologies

11 Ibid.

Filed Under: Customer Service, Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows

August 28, 2019 by Kevin McCann

Want Better Health? Use Windows to Bring More Nature Into Your Home

Windows Boosts Wellbeing

Windows Boosts Wellbeing by Connecting the Indoors and Outdoors

Windows are good for you. Really. Windows connect us with nature.

Here’s why: Windows connect you with nature—with sunlight, with views of sky and trees, with fresh air and with changing the weather.

It turns out that connection is very important for your health. Even though today we spend most of our time indoors, human beings evolved in close proximity to the out of doors. So our environment still affects us profoundly. Research shows that patients in hospital rooms with windows that look out on nature heal faster and need fewer painkillers. Similarly, office workers in buildings with views of trees and greenery do better at managing stress, reporting lower blood pressure and heart rates, better emotional functioning, and better levels of concentration.

Windows, it seems, makes us better people.

Windows connect with nature

Biophilic Design Explained

Actually, windows aren’t the only things that are good for us that way. So are plants, water, fire, animals, and natural materials like wood and stone. All are elements of the environment that we respond to in positive ways, often without realizing it.

This emotional and physiological response to nature is behind a hot concept in building called “biophilic design.” The term “biophilic” combines the Latin words for life (“bio”) and love (“philia”). So biophilic design honors our love of living things. And it seeks to introduce more such elements into our spaces. Think: A soaring atrium in an office building, an inner courtyard landscaped with trees, a plug-in fountain that gurgles on your desk, green roofs, fireplaces, even a cat snoozing near your chair.

And windows! Because if a biophilic design works in commercial settings, it definitely works at home, too.

Windows connect with nature

Windows Connect Us With Nature, Safely and Beautifully

Windows are powerful tools in biophilic design because they blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor worlds. Windows allow us to connect strongly with nature in numerous ways while still staying warm, safe, and dry.

The first way windows connect us with nature is visual. We like to look at the natural world: Homes that look out on pleasing views tend to command higher prices. While you maybe can’t change your home’s location to improve the views, you can still use windows to frame existing perspectives in attractive or dramatic ways. Opening up a wall with windows or glass doors that overlook a balcony, deck, landscaped yard or porch suddenly brings nature much closer. Or, add a skylight to a dark corner, dim hallway, or closed-in bath to transform a space with natural light.

Another way windows connect us with nature is through sound and air. You may have all the light that you already want coming in through your windows. But if some of those windows no longer open, you’re missing a biophilic element that can enhance your health. Working windows let in fresh air and wholesome sounds. A breeze moving through the house not only feels and smells good; it also carries the soothing noises of rustling leaves, birdsong, or the patter of rain. These sounds calm us and improve our mood and functioning.

How Can We Help?

While we aren’t trained in biophilic design at McCann, we are experts in figuring out how to get more happiness into your home via windows. So let us take an inventory of what’s working for you and what could be better in your home’s design. We think your house should not only be the place where you feel comfortable, but also the place where you feel and are your best. Give us a call if you have questions about restoring, repairing or replacing your windows and home exterior. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free. Just visit www.mccannwindow.com or call (847) 892-4071.

Naturally yours,
Kevin McCann

Filed Under: Customer Service, Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows Tagged With: biophilic, home improvement, windows

June 25, 2019 by Kevin McCann

Get Window Treatments That Blast Summer’s Heat & Glare

We all like the summer sun – but too much sun inside your home is a nuisance. Maybe you don’t sit or work in certain rooms at certain times of the day. Or your furniture, floors or drapes are getting bleached out. Possibly you can’t watch TV in west-facing rooms until the sun’s gone down. Maybe you start sweating opening your energy bill – and not because it’s a warm day. Perhaps time for some window treatments.

Over time, a high “solar load” (as it’s called) can damage your home and even your eyes. Here’s what can make the difference: windows and window treatments designed to minimize summer’s heat and glare. And there are lots of choices available.

 

Window treatments

Options For Beating The Heat

Outdoors, let’s start with the “organic” solution. Our grandparents answered hot weather by planting trees – nature’s air conditioner – around their homes, and you can, too. A large deciduous tree on the east, west or northwest corner of your house can cut energy bills by hundreds of dollars a year. Plus, trees tend to add to the value of your property.

If you don’t want to wait that long, though, another option is awnings. These upgraded old stand-bys offer new styles and materials that can match any home. Some products are retractable, so you can roll them out on sunny days and roll them back when it’s cloudy.

 

Indoors, window blinds offer huge flexibility, and there’s a product for every room in your home. To use them as a decorative element, look for blinds that attach outside the window frame; you’ll be able to pick from a very wide range of colors and materials, including metal, wood, and fabric. If you want blinds that “disappear,” though, look for integrated shades, or shades that are literally built into the window by sandwiching them between layers of glass. Pella makes these in motorized and manually operated versions. What is the benefit? You get the functionality of shades without adding window treatments to your rooms, plus the shades are forever protected from dirt and damage. (Especially useful if you’re trying to reduce allergens in your home.)

Special Heat Reflecting Glass

Then, consider the window glass itself. Special heat-reflecting, low-E (or “low emissivity”) glass creates windows that reflect the sun’s heat-producing rays in summer and help retain warmth in winter. These windows are double-glazed units containing two panes of glass with an inert gas trapped between them to increase insulation. The inner layer of glass is treated with a super-thin metal-based coating that blocks ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun, yet lets in “visible” light. Once winter returns, that same coating will reflect warmth from your heat sources back into the room to help keep your home comfortable and energy costs down.

Window Film

A final option is window film. There are lots of products in this category, including special heat-control and glare-control films that adhere directly to your existing windows. Some are an easy-to-install, DIY weekend project where you can buy materials at a big-box store. Other products are more technical; you’re probably wise to call in an expert rather than applying these films yourself. In either case, window films are generally easy to maintain and easy to clean. Be advised, though, that you may need to re-do them every year.

Let’s Enjoy Summer, Indoors or Out

There’s no reason why you can’t have your home as comfortable as you want it, year-round. At McCann Windows & Exteriors, we’re happy to help you create the home that’s just right for the life you lead in every season. Please give us a call with any questions about restoring, repairing, or replacing your windows and home exterior. We’re ready to serve you, and estimates are free. Just call (847) 892-4071, or schedule a consultation here.

Be cool!
Kevin McCann

Filed Under: Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows

June 10, 2019 by Kevin McCann

Smart Windows Are Smart Additions to Your Space

smart window
As a leader in window and door innovation, Pella is devoted to smart, practical innovation that makes life easier. Pella products with Insynctive technology maintain the stylistic integrity of your home while improving your peace of mind. Resource: https://www.pella.com/insynctive/

A new class of glass has arrived. It’s called “smart” or “dynamic” or “active” glass, and it has the potential to make your space more comfortable while also cutting your energy bill—all at the flick of a switch (or less).

What makes glass “smart” or dynamic is its ability to go from clear to opaque (or vice versa) in the blink of an eye. If you’ve ever seen eyeglasses that turned into sunglasses when the wearer went outside, you’ve seen dynamic glass.

After being used in commercial buildings for years, “dynamic glazing” is now showing up in products for your home. Have you ever wanted to “dial down” the sunlight in certain rooms that get uncomfortably hot or bright? Would you like to skip expensive curtains or shades in parts of your home and still have privacy? Ever wished you could temporarily “fog” the windows in a particular bedroom or bathroom to avoid people looking in? “Smart glass” makes all this possible by enabling smart windows that change appearance on command or in response to set conditions.

And lots of manufacturers are getting into the smart window game, including familiar names such as Pella and Marvin.

Glass That Performs Different Ways to Save Money and Create Space

Smart windows come in various modes, depending on your need. Some use a coating that responds to heat or light; others use a ceramic glaze or liquid crystal film that shifts color in the presence of electricity. Whatever format you choose, though, smart glass can lower your energy bill and even the cost of decorating your home.

Here’s how. I love the summer sun—that is, until it bleaches out my floors and furniture and jacks up my cooling bill. With smart windows, though, I can flip a switch during the hottest part of the day to trim the light coming in my windows. As soon as the sun passes, I can change the window glass back to clear again and enjoy the view.

An alternative kind of window doesn’t rely on electricity to change color. Instead, chemical coatings automatically respond when the amount of light or outdoor temperature hits a set point. On sunny summer days, the glass goes translucent to block light as the temperature rises. Sunny day in the winter? The glass stays clear to let in warming rays.

But dynamic glass can do more than affect windows. Think of a conference room at work with active glass walls. Flip a switch, and one of the walls becomes opaque, so it can be used as a projection screen or just to provide privacy. Now, take that idea into your home. Imagine being able to create a “room” or workspace in an open floor plan via a room divider made of dynamic glass. Flip the switch—and you’ve given an overnight guest a private place to sleep or defined an office in the middle of a busy home.

This is “magic” glass: Now you see it; now you don’t.

What Kind of Smart Glass is Right for You?

There are four basic kinds of smart glass technology. Deciding what’s right for you depends on your particular needs.

Electrochromic glass. These windows use a ceramic coating sandwiched between two layers of glass that darkens when electric voltage is applied. To reverse the tint, simply apply voltage again. This feature can be turned on from an electric switch, programmed timer, light sensor, motion sensor, or smartphone.

Photochromic glass. Like clear eyeglasses that transform into sunglasses, these windows darken in response to strong light. On the plus side, they’re automatic and effective at reducing glare. On the minus side, they’ll darken on a sunny day in winter when you actually might want to let in light.

Thermochromic glass. These windows are heat-sensitive. When the temperature rises to a set point, the glass transitions to a tinted state; as exterior conditions cool, the glass becomes clear. Again, these require no input from you. Another bonus: In winter, these windows won’t darken on sunny days.

Liquid crystal technology. These windows laminate a thin layer of liquid crystals plus a conductive metal coating between two pieces of glass. The material stays milky until electric current is applied; then the crystals “line up” and the glass turns transparent. While great for protecting privacy, liquid crystal windows aren’t effective in blocking heat or light.

Smart Film. A further option for the DIY crowd is “smart film.” This material embeds liquid crystals in plastic sheeting that’s Wi-Fi-enabled and paired with a smartphone app, and which can be cut to fit existing windows. For the homeowner who’s less than expert, though, this technology might be trickier to use.

We are Here to Serve You

At McCann Windows & Exteriors, we’re happy to help you create exactly the home that’s perfect for you, season after season. Please give us a call with any questions about restoring, repairing or replacing your windows and home exterior. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free. Just visit https://mccannwindow.com or call (847) 892-4071 to schedule a time convenient for you.

Filed Under: Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows

March 18, 2019 by Kevin McCann

Tips on Window Safety

Tips on Window Safety
window safety for your family

Tips on Window Safety. According to the U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission, windows rank as one of the top five hidden hazards in the home.

I’m not happy hearing stuff like this. I want you to be proud of your home, I want you to enjoy coming home to it, and I want you to feel safe and comfortable whenever you’re there. So here are a few tips for window safety and keeping you and your family (including pets) healthy this year by minimizing the risks associated with home windows.

1 | Close the Window on Home Invasion

I’ll start by saying: Thank goodness for windows. They’re more than a way to let in light and air. They can also provide a life-saving escape route in the event of an emergency, like a fire.

safe window locks

Unfortunately, they can also provide a way for intruders to get in—lots of us like leaving windows open in warm weather. Go ahead, but remember that ground floor and basement-level windows provide easy access to strangers and critters. Keep an eye on these openings. You don’t want to find uninvited guests having a field day with your belongings.

 

Window Integrated Security Sensors

Pella and Marvin have window security technology to help assure your home is safe and sound.

Pella Insynctive technology allows you to monitor your windows and doors virtually anywhere. This option is available on select windows and doors.

Most people get in the habit of locking their doors when they leave their homes, but windows are more likely to be left unlocked. Casement, or crank-out windows, are excellent because even when you forget to lock them—if they’re shut all the way, they’re still challenging to open from the outside. If you shut and forget to lock a glider or double-hung window, a would-be burglar will be able to push them open.

Marvin Lift Lock hardware Auto-locking systems are an excellent solution for the forgetful window operator. Marvin’s auto-locking system automatically locks a window when it’s closed. In addition to locking automatically, Lift Lock is installed at the bottom of the lower sash on a double-hung window instead of the check rail like on a standard double-hung window. Placing the lock at the bottom makes a window much easier to open when it’s located in a hard-to-reach area like behind a bathtub or over a kitchen counter.

Install Smarter Windows and Doors

Marvin Lock Status Sensors are integrated into the window itself, so you don’t see any unsightly wires, and they are hardwired, so you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries.

Laminated Glass is Tough

A window fitted with laminated glass is not so is not easy to penetrate. Laminated glass is made by sandwiching a thin, virtually invisible vinyl film between two layers of glass. That thin layer won’t prevent the glass from cracking, but it will stay in place within the window sash or frame if it gets broken. Also, a benefit of laminated glass is its better sound reduction qualities, which is an excellent feature if you live on a noisy street.

Keep Your Stuff

There are several ways to keep your valuables out of sight. Installing curtains or blinds can be a simple and effective solution. Various window glazing options allow light inside but obscure the view.


2 | Don’t Fall for Anything—Ever

Open windows on higher levels in your house pose a different problem – safety. Unsurprisingly, children are more prone to this kind of accident. First, they’re curious. Second, they don’t have a well-developed sense of danger. Third, they’re children, so they’re crazy. (I’ve raised three. I can say that.)

Each year, about eight children under the age of five die from falling out a window. Another 3,300 are seriously injured. Let’s stop the madness! A few simple precautions can easily save a life. (By the way, these tips hold true for the family dog or cat as well.)

  • Tip #1: If you must open a window, pick one that children can’t reach. For instance, open only the upper sash if your home has double-hung windows. Window Opening Control Devices (WOCDs) are designed to prevent a small child from opening a window wide enough to climb out.
  • Tip #2: Never place chairs, beds, sofas, or anything a child can climb up near a window. You are better off positioning all furniture on a non-windowed wall.
  • Tip #3: Don’t count on window screens to prevent a fall. They aren’t engineered as safety devices and won’t necessarily stop a child from flying out. Request a Kidsafe ruler to check your window opening.
  • Tip #4: Putting shrubs or other soft landscaping material such as wood chips under windows can greatly reduce injury in the event of a fall.

3 | Don’t Get Hung Up on Blinds

Effective December 2018, new rules require new window covering products (like shades or blinds) to arrive cordlessly or with inaccessible/short cords.

Unbelievably, about one child per month in the U.S. dies after strangling on window blind cords. Almost two children per day end up in emergency rooms for the same reason. This is a terrible thing, so please—if your home has small children in it, only purchase cordless window covering products.

If your home already possesses window blinds with cords on them, take precautions to deal with the potential risk of strangulation. Consider replacing your blinds with cordless or motorized versions. Alternatively, you can retrofit blinds with a wand for adjusting them in lieu of cords or chains. Free retrofit kits—and more information—are available from the Window Covering Safety Council at windowcoverings.org.


4 | If It’s Broken, Don’t Fix it. Clean It Up. (Carefully.)

When dealing with a broken window, it’s easy to forget just how dangerous glass can be. But give it extreme respect: The edges on broken glass can be razor-sharp.

If a window breaks in your home, first get all children and pets out of harm’s way. It’s a good idea to put on gardening or construction gloves if you’ll be picking up glass pieces. Consider calling a window expert if there are large chunks of glass still attached to the frame; you may not want to handle those on your own. Collect the smaller glass pieces with a vacuum or broom and dustpan; then wipe down the area with a wet cloth to pick up any tiny particles. It’s also important how you dispose of broken glass in the garbage so as not to pose a risk to trash collectors or your family: Wrap larger pieces in heavy cloth or the like and tape up the whole bundle before putting it in the trash.


How Can We Help?

At McCann Window & Exteriors, we know that, of all the beautiful spaces in the world, the best is the one you call home. Please reach out if we can help with concerns regarding your house’s windows, doors, or siding. We’re standing by to help you create the home you feel safe in and absolutely love. Learn more about McCann Window & Exteriors by visiting https://mccannwindow.com or calling (847) 562-1212.

Kevin McCann

 

Window safety: https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/home-furniture-furnishings-and-decorations/window-safety

Filed Under: Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows

October 8, 2018 by Kevin McCann

How Soundproof Windows Can Help You Sleep Better At Night

Soundproof Windows

Wouldn’t it be great if everyone went to bed at the same time as you?

Unfortunately, it’s a 24/7 world—which means your quiet time might be someone else’s a busy time. And that can lead to unwanted noise.

Recently, we worked with a customer who owns a lovely newer townhome. It’s near a rail line; in fact, his bedroom backs right up to the tracks. Noise from passing trains was keeping him, as well as his children, up at night.

He brought us a question: Could we help him make his home more soundproof? It’s not the first time we’ve been asked that. Although his issue was train noise, in other communities customers have to deal with loud street sounds or highway hubbub, or airplanes landing and taking off.

Let’s face it: Noise is noise. And if you can’t relax, you can’t relax.

Finding the Sounds of Silence

Historically, we’ve offered customers two options for noise reduction. One is a window using triple-pane glass; the other is a window with laminated glass. Both offer benefits, but both fall a little short of completely managing sound leakage.

In looking for an answer for this customer, we tried something new, at his urging. This client already had triple-pane windows installed, because that is what had come with the building. So we knew that wasn’t the answer. Fortunately, Pella offers window products with improved noise reduction features. It’s not just the glazing that affects sound transmission; it’s also the window frame. Pella’s Impervia Series features fiberglass frame construction, which deadens sound compared to metal frames. We then ordered double-hung Impervia dual-pane windows glazed with STC-rated insulating glass. Something to note: Each pane in these dual-pane windows is a different thickness. The exterior glass is 3mm thick while the interior pane is 5mm thick. That level of thickness makes a big difference in how much sound the windows stop.

What does that “STC” rating mean? The window industry uses two measures to evaluate sound permeability. One is Sound Transmission Class (STC). The other rating is Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class (OITC). STC ratings tend to look at higher-frequency noise, which is stuff like human voices, computer equipment, and so on. OITC ratings include lower-frequency as well as higher-frequency sounds. Noise in the lower-frequency band is much harder to screen out, but it’s also the stuff that can feel more intrusive, like construction equipment, traffic, and so on.

Currently, it’s not uncommon to see both ratings posted for a product. The OITC number was designed to classify acoustics in exterior applications, while the STC rating was intended to evaluate interior partitions. So the OITC number is probably going to be the standard number in the future. If you see it, it tends to be a few points lower than STC rating on the same product, but it’s still a good sign.

Silence May Be Golden, But That Doesn’t Make It Expensive

The good news? Ordering and installing these windows was no different than getting regular replacement windows. Having special STC glass in the frames only added a little extra to the price. Otherwise, these noise-reducing windows looked the same, worked the same, and were installed the same as other replacement windows. In other words, homeowners don’t need to make a big whoop-dee-doo if they want to enjoy a higher level of peace and quiet in their homes. The products to help are readily available, no matter where they live.

How Can We Help?

At McCann Windows & Exteriors, we care about the beauty and functionality of your home. We also care about you, and how well your space is working for you and your family. After all, like you, your house should always look and feel great.

Please give us a call if we can be of service. We’re ready to help and estimates are free. We like solving problems such as helping you sleep better at night. Because when you’re a satisfied customer, we sleep better, too.

Please contact us here online (free consultation form) or call (847) 892-4071.

Filed Under: Customer Service, Home Improvement Tips, Replacement Windows

September 5, 2018 by Kevin McCann

Will Energy-Efficient Windows Save You Money?

 

Facts vs. Fiction on Energy-Efficient Windows

Fall’s coming. That makes it a great time to think about home improvements that will keep you and your family cozy in the months ahead.

It’s a fact that windows play an important role in the snugness of your home. They can account for 25-30% of your home energy costs. But it’s a fiction that windows are your greatest source of heat loss and that you should rush to replace them. You lose far more heat through two other parts of your house.

The Top Heat Thief in Your Home
The biggest culprit for wasting warmth on cold days? That’s your roof, which can leak 35-50% of your heating energy, depending on your insulation. The next biggest heat thief is walls, which lose warmth through cracks, gaps around ductwork, electrical outlets, recessed lighting, and more. In fact, windows only account for about one-fifth of the heat escaping from your home.

Yet if windows aren’t the least energy-efficient feature of your home, does it still pay to be “energy smart” about them? It does. And there are some simple things you can do to be energy-efficient AND cost-efficient this winter.

One “fact” you might see out there is that new windows pay for themselves through savings on your fuel bills. They might—if you own your home long enough. But let’s look at the data first.

Weighing Costs vs. Savings
New windows will definitely make your home feel snugger, particularly if you have an older home with single-pane glass windows. Well-installed replacement windows will fit tightly, look great and be easier to operate and maintain.

But it obviously costs something to replace your windows. My wife may yell at me for telling you this, but the money you save on fuel bills from installing new, energy-efficient windows is not going to cover the cost of those windows near term. So it’s a fact that new windows can help cut your fuel bills, but it’s a fiction that they do it cost-effectively AND quickly.

If your windows are in decent shape, the most penny-wise thing you can do is improve their weather-worthiness. Caulking or weather stripping can go a long way toward eliminating drafts through cracks in the frame. Some folks also put up a layer of plastic film to help hold in warm air. All that helps.

R U Energy Wise?
If you’re still thinking about replacing your windows with more energy-efficient ones, there are several factors to weigh. Different glazing options offer different energy benefits—double pane, triple pane, reflective glass, gas-filled, and so on. The window frame material also makes a big difference. Wood, fiberglass, and vinyl frames all offer greater thermal resistance than aluminum, for example. We can walk you through the options.

If you want to do your own research on a product’s energy efficiency, look for information from these sources:
ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To be labeled an ENERGY STAR, a product has to pass certain energy efficiency requirements. Learn more here: https://www.energystar.gov/products/how-product-earns-energy-star-label

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a nonprofit that’s established independent criteria for evaluating the energy performance of door, window, and skylight products. Learn more here: http://www.nfrc.org

Simply, the ENERGY STAR label says a product has been tested and deemed energy-efficient. The NFRC label then helps you dig deeper by comparing performance across certain criteria, so you can evaluate products against each other.

There are two more ratings to know: If you see an “R-value” on a product, that “R” is for “resistance.” It measures how resistant a glass product is to heat flow, or losing heat. A higher R-value indicates good insulating properties. Another number is “U-factor” or “U-value.” U-factor measures how quickly a glass product transmits heat between the interior and exterior spaces. A lower U-factor also indicates good insulating qualities. Simply, you want windows with high “R” numbers and low “U” numbers.

We Can Help
Like so many other projects around your home, the quality of the contractor you hire makes a huge difference in your experience. Bad window installations can leak, cause drafts, and lead to moisture damage. A great installation will add to the value, appearance, and comfort of your home while minimizing disruption to your life.

At McCann Windows & Exteriors, we believe in guaranteeing your satisfaction. And that’s a fact! Please give us a call with any questions. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free. Just visit https://mccannwindow.com or call 847-852-4513.

Happy fall!

Kevin McCann

Filed Under: Entry Doors, Home Exteriors, Home Improvement Tips, McCann Window, Replacement Windows Tagged With: Energy efficient, replacement windows

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