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

May 1, 2018 by Kevin McCann

The Best Way to Get Your Windows Spotlessly Clean

Learn the pros’ tips and tricks for cleaning windows and getting them streak-free

Bonnie McCarthy April 6, 2017, Houzz Contributor.

When I was a kid, my mother would often quip at the sight of large, multistory homes: “Yeah, but who’s going to clean all those windows?” In her mind, she was probably imagining one person painstakingly cleaning each window the way she did around our home. She would mix 1 gallon of water with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, fill a spray bottle, squeegee the liquid off each window and wipe the glass dry with newspaper, a process to which she, and subsequently, we, strictly adhered.

But does Mother really know best? I thought I’d check with the professionals to find out the best way to clean windows.

How Often?

To begin, I asked Stephanie Lewis, customer experience manager at The Maids cleaning service, how often windows should be cleaned. “It’s really up to consumers themselves,” she says. “Some people like to clean their windows every week on their own, and others are OK with having a professional come in and clean their windows inside and out, from top to bottom, twice a year. It’s one of those things that can fall into spring and fall cleaning.”

Will Dorn, president of Prime Time Window Cleaning Inc. in the Chicago area, says most of his customers opt for cleaning two or three times each year. “Definitely in the spring after the long winter, and then in summer or late fall before the holidays,” Dorn says.

Dirty trick: Lewis suggests avoiding cleaning windows on a hot, sunny day. “Everything dries so much faster, and it’s going to streak,” she says. “So we recommend doing it on a cloudy day.”

First Things First

To get started, Dorn says, it’s important to clear the window area of tchotchkes, knickknacks and any furniture that may get in the way of cleaning.

“One of the big things about cleaning windows is really protecting your floors and the inside of your walls,” Lewis says. “You want to make sure you lay down a sheet or drop cloth to protect your carpet or flooring from getting wet and causing damage.”

Easy Solutions

Once the area is prepped, Lewis and her team advise ditching prepackaged bottled cleansers and mixing up a solution of warm water with a small squirt of dish soap. “Usually just a drop or two per gallon will do it,” she says. “Then grab a sponge and scrub down the windows, making sure to get into the corners and the creases and crevices of the window.” Next, clear away the solution with a squeegee and wipe dry with a clean towel.

Lewis says there are strong opinions about how to achieve streak-free windows. Warm water vs. cold? Vinegar vs. dish soap? Newspaper vs. paper towels?

“The answer, of course, is obvious,” Lewis says. “There is no ‘right way’ unless you don’t clean at all. For exceptionally grimy windows, add some vinegar or ammonia to the solution. If you’ve really got buildup, vinegar will cut through grease and grime.”

Lewis says to wash the edges of the window glass first, rinse and then give the whole window a go.

Next, squeegee away the excess, wiping down the squeegee with a soft cloth or clean rag every couple of strokes. For a large window, wipe down the squeegee after a single large stroke; with smaller window panes (using a much smaller squeegee), wipe it dry after every couple of strokes.

For uniquely shaped windows, finding or creating a custom-sized squeegee may come in handy.

To get rid of any streaks after squeegeeing and make your windows shine, Lewis suggests using a dry cloth or (yes, Mom), even newspaper.

“One thing you should know, however,” she says, “is that not all newspapers are created equal.” Since newspaper ink is not a standard solution, some ink may be darker or contribute to streaking, while others may not. “You’ll need to play around with that and figure it out as you go,” she says.

Dirty trick: Lewis suggests wiping windows dry in a vertical direction on one side of the windows and wiping horizontally on the other side. “This way, if streaks appear, you know what side they’re on,” she says.

Keeping Track

To clean dirty window tracks, both Lewis and Dorn say that using a vacuum attachment is one way, but they recommend getting out an old toothbrush for most jobs. “That really allows you to get down into those crevices a bit better,” Lewis says.

When to Say ‘Uncle’

The task of window cleaning may call for professional help, depending on the number and style of windows you have, whether there are also storm windows and screens to deal with, how much free time you have and if you need ladders or special equipment to reach up two or three stories.

“Honestly, if there are windows you can’t reach, that require tall ladders from the outside, we would recommend not doing them and hiring a professional who is insured,” Dorn says. “That’s one of the reasons people call us. By the time they look at the cost of buying the ladders and squeegees, the towels and cleansers, they decide to just hire professionals.”

Going Pro

If you’re hiring a window-cleaning crew, make sure they are insured and bonded and have good reviews. Dorn recommends checking to see how long the service has been in business. “I would go with a legitimate outfit and not just somebody working out of the back of their truck,” he says.

“These people are going to be in your home,” Lewis says. “You want someone you can feel comfortable with, and someone you can ask questions of, like, ‘What should I expect?’ Your cleaning service should be able to walk you through that process.”

Lewis says it’s also important to find out how many people they will be sending over for the job. “If It’s just a team of one or two, it’s going to take a lot longer than a team of four. So consider those kinds of things. How long do you want those folks to be in your home?”

May 9, 2017 by Kevin McCann

Why Are My Windows Sweating?

What do you get when you combine cool glass with muggy summer air? A major annoyance to homeowners. Summer window condensation frustrates many homeowners. Unlike its cold-weather counterpart, summer condensation forms on the outside of the glass, making it challenging to wipe away on upper-level windows. Sweating windows fog up the view, and if it happens regularly, the condensation can seep into window frames to peel paint and form mildew. Windows Sweating? Luckily for homeowners in Northbrook, McCann Window & Exteriors has the solution.

How to Prevent Window Condensation

Switch to double-pane windows. If a renovation project is in your budget, it’s time to upgrade your windows. Insulated glass is a simple solution to condensation problems. Energy-efficient coatings are another simple solution. Energy-efficient windows reduce the amount of heat that transfers through the glass, which often prevents condensation problems that can occur with non-treated glass.
Adjust the thermostat. Condensation occurs when hot air meets cold air. Just like when your car windshield fogs up, an easy solution is to minimize the difference in air temperature. Adjust the thermostat by a few degrees and monitor the window condensation to see if it shrinks.
Check the humidity. Depending on the humidity levels in your house, using a dehumidifier may solve your window condensation problem. If you’re using a humidifier in the house, turn it off until the weather cools down.
Crack a window. Not only will you get a breath of fresh air, you’ll improve air circulation around the windows.

Do you have condensation problems? Call McCann Window & Exteriors in Northbrook, IL.

April 18, 2017 by Kevin McCann

How to Insulate Windows this Summer

Is hot, humid air creeping in your windows? Beat the summer heat! McCann has 7 simple, affordable ways to insulate windows for the summer.

How to Insulate Windows Against Heat

Bubble wrap. It’s not the prettiest solution, so we wouldn’t suggest relying on bubble wrap long term, but if you need a way to survive until you can schedule a window replacement, insulate your windows with bubble wrap.
Weatherstripping. Weather stripping isn’t just for doors. You can use it to seal air leaks around windows, too. Choose from foam, felt, or vinyl weatherstripping and use it to reinforce your window’s insulation.
Choose smart window treatments. Cell shades trap the air in pockets around the windows, preventing major temperature fluctuations in the home.
Utilize shutters. They’re not just for decoration outside. Interior shutters prevent hot air from leaking into the house, reducing summer energy costs.
High-reflectivity window film. You can apply the film yourself or get help from a professional.
Make a draft snake. A draft snake is a long, thin tube that prevents drafts from leaking into the house. It’s an easy DIY project as long as you have a sewing machine on hand. Simply measure the window, sew together a tube of fabric, and fill it with rice. Lay it flush against doors or windows to prevent hot or cold air from leaking inside.
Replace the windows. Are your windows old and drafty? It might be time for an upgrade. Call McCann Windows & Exteriors to learn about energy efficient windows in Northbrook.

April 10, 2017 by Kevin McCann

Picture Windows, Why We Love Them

It’s not all about looks. Expansive window styles offer an unobstructed view because they’re made up of one large pane. As one might expect, these broad, sweeping windows offer a breathtaking view, which is a major draw for many homeowners. But there are plenty of other benefits to installing picture windows.

Why We Love Windows with a View

Gorgeous in Green. Picture windows don’t only give you a great view of the landscape, they’re good for it, too. They let in more daylight, which limits the need for artificial lighting. Because they are sealed around the edges, they’re insulated against air and moisture leaks. To increase the energy efficiency, homeowners should look for windows with warm-edge spacers, low-e coatings, and other energy-saving options.
Built to Last. A thick, solid pane of glass is much harder to break than smaller, reinforced panes, so these types of windows are tougher than many window options. Because picture windows don’t have moving parts, you won’t need to pay to replace mechanical parts a few years down the line. This keeps both upkeep and long-term costs to a minimum.

What’s the Downside?

What are the drawbacks of picture windows?

Because this style of window cannot open, they need to be cleaned from the outside.
They are made of fixed parts, they don’t provide ventilation.
In the rare event that the glass is damaged, the entire panel must be replaced.

Does your house need window replacement? Picture windows can make your home look and feel larger. Call McCann Windows & Exteriors today and transform your home for summer.

March 24, 2017 by Kevin McCann

How to Repurpose Old Windows

For many Northbrook homeowners, replacing windows is a simple matter of “old with the old, in with the new.” Replacing old windows breathes new life into a home’s exterior, giving it a unique personal style alongside more practical benefits like reducing drafts and decreasing home energy use. The McCann team will gladly dispose of your old windows to make the transformation complete. Or you could get creative and transform old windows into something new.

How to Repurpose Old Windows

DIY trends are all about breathing new life into old home fixtures. Your windows may not withstand the wind, rain, and snow in Northbrook anymore, but they can still improve your home. Hold onto your old windows and try one of these fun craft projects.

Picture frames. Are you looking for a unique way to add character to bare walls? An old window frame makes a bold statement without sacrificing that classy, homey style. Attach small pictures in the center of each window frame for a simple, sturdy floating picture frame. If you’re decorating a child’s room, paint the frame a soft pastel color before hanging it on the wall.
Jewelry holder. An old window frame makes hanging jewelry look attractive instead of cluttered. Cut chicken wire to fill each frame and hang earrings from the wires. For a simpler, sweeter look, string ribbon across the outer edges of the frame. Voila! A simple, attractive display for earrings, necklaces, or even sunglasses.
Backdrop. Does your mantle look bare? Add height to those baubles on the ledge by using an old window frame as a backsplash. For a rustic vibe, distress the frame first. For a more modern look, paint the frame with a soft-finish metallic coat.

Is window renovation on your spring wish list? Call McCann Windows and Exteriors.

Window Frame DIY

January 16, 2017 by Kevin McCann

Why Homeowners Shouldn’t Fear Winter Window Replacement

Replace your windows all year—even in the winter.

Winter window replacement during cold months is very doable. Needing or having to replace a window is never fun, and ultimately speaking there is never a good time to have to do so. But having to replace your windows during the winter months may be seen as a little more daunting than any other time of the year. You shouldn’t be afraid of the task of winter window replacement… in fact, you should embrace it. For one thing, you are taking care of a problem that could be very costly if ignored. Old windows can bring on air leakage allowing more cold air to come into your home, making your energy costs go up. When you replace your old windows you don’t have to worry about any cold air leaking in.

Replacing your windows during the winter will leave you in a better position in various ways when you look at the bigger picture. Not only will it get rid of the draftiness that you may be experiencing due to having old windows, but new windows are also easier to clean, they’re energy-efficient, they control noise, they have light control, and they give you better ventilation when you need it, and they will improve the appearance of your home!

Window Replacement the Easy Way.

When you replace your windows you don’t have to worry about the process taking long; you can rest assured that you will get your old windows out and your new windows put in place in no time! If you find that you need to replace your windows this winter in Northbrook, IL there’s one place for you to go. McCann Window & Exteriors is who you want to call. There is no other home enhancement company that will be able to get your new windows in place with ease. Give us a call at 847-562-1212. We are located at 3375 Commercial Ave. in Northbrook, Illinois!

November 23, 2016 by Kevin McCann

A Letter of Gratitude to Our Customers

Gratitude & Thanks

A message of gratitude to our customers. Can you believe Thanksgiving is already upon us? The scents of the season that already seem to be filling the air signal families from across the country and globe to reunite once again. In the spirit of the holiday, we will gather tomorrow to fill our plates, exchange laughs across the table, and participate in reflection on what truly makes us thankful.

When we, as a company, reflect back on our 26-plus years of service to our community there is one aspect of it that we are grateful for each year above all else. The support of our customers over nearly three decades never ceases to humble us, because, without it, we would not exist. Your patronage and trust are invaluable to us, and this holiday season we want to express our deepest and sincerest gratitude.

We wish you all a lovely Thanksgiving and a joyous holiday season and extend gratitude to our customers,

The McCann Windows and Exteriors family

Thanksgiving 2016

Poem “Gratitude” by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

July 22, 2016 by Kevin McCann

Who are McCann Windows and Exteriors?

McCann Company Principles

Every business has something that it claims makes its business stand out, and this often translates into reasons why the customer should use those services over another. McCann Windows and Exteriors, located in Northbrook, IL, is not an exclusion to this rule, but rather than tell you about our knowledgeable and skilled tradesman, we’d rather present our company’s principles. What truly makes us stand apart from our competition is a great dedication to our community and our forward, honest approach to how we do business. We don’t ever want our customers to feel like another number in the system, but rather, like they have hired a friend in the community they can communicate their goals easily. We want to help you make decisions for your home that fit both your lifestyle and your budget. We believe that when you support your community, your community supports you.

So what are our company principles?

We openly tell the whole truth to our customers.
We sell products that do what we say they do.
We sell products at a fair price.
We continually strive to improve product lines and methods of installation and service.
We tell customers the truth about problems.
We treat work associates fairly, honestly, and as human beings.
We operate our business within the parameters of the law.
We include pertinent others in our business decisions, in order to give ourselves, our business, and our customers the greatest chance of success.
We stand up for ourselves, our business, and what we believe to be right, in order to protect our company and our customers.
We do not tolerate employees or associates who do not comply with these standards

It’s easy to say we follow these ideals, but unless the customers and the community can see your words in action, it has little impact. Sometimes it’s best to let your work speak for itself, and our customers have given us some great feedback over the years that really drives home who we are as a company.

If you would like to keep up with what we have going on at McCann Windows and Exteriors, you can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter,

July 10, 2012 by Kevin McCann

Custom Replacement Windows Transform Ranch Home

Window Replacement Case Study

Homeowners themselves can be the greatest sources of creativity when it comes to completely change the look of their homes. At McCann, we have often had homeowners give us drawings and photos cut from magazines as ideas for renewing the excitement they felt when they first moved in.

One such homeowner, a customer we worked for more than 10 years ago, recently came to us with one of those ideas that were so out of the box we started scratching our heads in wonder. For the Eagan residence, we replaced the entire side of their ranch-style home with custom Pella cottage-style windows and more than 20 feet of the floor-to-ceiling window wall.

Cottage Style

A cottage window is a double-hung window — i.e., a window with two sashes sliding up and down hung with one atop the other in the same frame — in which the upper sash is smaller (shorter) than the lower one.

Double Hung Windows From Pella

A double-hung window can be raised from the bottom or lowered from the top with two sashes that move independently. The two sashes are stacked and meet in the middle with a latch that locks the window shut. Double-hung windows are simple to clean as both sashes tilt inward for easy access to the interior and exterior glass surfaces. Because double-hung windows ventilate without protruding inwards or outwards, they maximize both interior and exterior space, making them popular choices in entertainment spaces like patios and porches. Double-hung windows are common choices in traditional and farmhouse homes. Adding a simple grille pattern furthers the traditional aesthetic, bringing modest detail and charm.

Our role was to go back and forth with the manufacturer to make sure Mrs. Eagan realized her vision. We think the transformation in their home speaks for itself.

Have a Custom Project? Get Started with a Free Consultation

Our McCann Window & Exteriors team has been proud to install energy-efficient windows all over Chicagoland and its north suburbs for many years now. We can recommend an energy-efficient or custom solution that best fits your home and budget. If this is something that you’re considering for your home, give us a call today or fill out the online form for your free consultation.