McCann Window Northbrook Chicago IL

847-562-1212 | 346 Anthony Trail | Northbrook, IL 60062

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

Windows Boosts Wellbeing by Connecting the Indoors and Outdoors

Windows are good for you. Really.

Here’s why: They 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.

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 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 expert 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

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Squirrels Ate My Screens

Tips on Protecting Your Windows From Rodent Damage

 

Under the category of “Things That Like to Eat My Home,” add: Squirrels.

Not that squirrels enjoy dining on building materials. Squirrels, however, are rodents and rodents have to chew. Literally. Chewing is how they keep their fast-growing (up to six inches per year) front teeth useable. Without chewing, squirrels’ incisors would get so long so quickly that they could no longer eat, and would starve.

So Have Teeth, Will Gnaw, if you’re a squirrel. Which means the next time Ms. Sciurus carolinensis tries to chew a hole in your siding, it’s not personal. It’s dental. Or, she’s looking for a snack or a place to live.

Lately, I’ve been hearing reports of squirrels eating window screens. I don’t like anyone disrespecting windows, but I wasn’t quite as surprised once I learned about all the things squirrels do chew through regularly—shingles, wood siding, metal vents, heavy plastic trashcans, electrical wiring, PVC pipes, insulation, and more. In fact, it’s been suggested that squirrels are responsible for 10-20% of all power outages in the U.S., [1] including briefly knocking out trading at NASDAQ in 1987 and 1994. [2]

Enough! Time to draw a line in the lawn. Here are ways to fight back.

Tip #1: Stop Being a Squirrel Magnet

Problems with squirrels start when they find your property attractive and begin hanging around. If you have trees and shrubs and keep food in your home—Bingo! You qualify.

Don’t cut down all your trees or stop buying groceries, though. A few tricks will make your home less compelling. Squirrels have sharp senses of smell and taste. That makes food a #1 attractant. I know you think your bird feeder is for birds, but squirrels think otherwise. Consider locating all birdfeeders at least 20 feet from your house, and squirrel-proof them with a pole guard so the little buggers can’t clamber up. Garbage cans are another lure, and plastic cans are no match for a determined squirrel. If your community allows, try replacing plastic garbage cans with metal; squirrels are less likely to chomp down on a metal can.

Which brings us to window screens, metal and otherwise. If the only thing standing between your food and a squirrel is a screen, it’s not going to go well for the screen. That’s something to keep in mind if you like to eat on a screened-in porch, or if you open kitchen windows to catch the breeze. Go ahead and enjoy the season; just don’t leave food lying around unsupervised for long stretches. You could attract some serious attention from the furry kind.

Tip #2: Use Repellants to Send Squirrels Running

Good news: You can use the squirrel’s keen sense of smell against him. Local home goods stores often carry animal repellents that you can spray around windows, the base of your screened-in-porch, and any other place you want to protect. Some products contain coyote urine, which will really make squirrels think twice about loitering.

Squirrels also hate capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne pepper. Brew up your own DIY batch of repellent with this recipe:

  • One bottle of cayenne pepper sauce
  • One gallon of water
  • 1 teaspoon mild liquid dishwashing detergent

Mix the ingredients together. Spray or brush the repellent on areas where squirrels are active. Reapply periodically, especially after it rains. [3]

Got mothballs? Try putting some in a sock and placing loaded socks in strategic spots to discourage exploration. Mothballs get their pungent order from naphthalene, which irritates a squirrel’s lungs. If you’re short on mothballs, try using ammonia-soaked rags instead.

Hands Up and Step Away From the Squirrel

You may be surprised to learn that squirrels are protected by law in Illinois. It’s true; the Illinois Wildlife Code prohibits taking matters into your own hands if you feel particularly unkind toward a squirrel who’s given your home some unwanted attention. (Or maybe if you are a former NASDAQ trader.) The rules seem to vary by community and species of squirrel, though. It’s wise to do a little research online before taking action, even if that bad boy just ate your window screens.

After all, he’s simply doing what comes naturally to him. And, in case you were wondering, Squirrel Appreciation Day is January 21.

Your home is your castle, and we’re here to help you take great care of it. At McCann Window & Exteriors, we love hearing from our customers with their plans and concerns. Please give us a call if you have questions about restoring, repairing or replacing your windows and home exterior. Just call (847) 892-4071, or schedule a free consultation.

Here’s to Mother Nature!

Kevin McCann

 

References
1. Katherine Shaver, “The bushy-tailed, nut-loving menace coming after America’s power grid.” The Washington Post, Dec. 25, 2015. Accessed July 9, 2019: www.washingtonpost.com/local/the-bushy-tailed-nut-loving-menace-coming-after-americas-power-grid/2015/12/25/d4b4c2b6-a8db-11e5-9b92-dea7cd4b1a4d_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.cc6b78656f79
2. Bonnie Brodnick, “Squirrel Appreciation Day: Don’t Miss Celebrating!” HuffPost, Oct. 6, 2014. Accessed July 10, 2019: www.huffpost.com/entry/squirrel-appreciation-day_b_2496591
3. Danny Lipford, “How to Keep Squirrels From Damaging Your Home,” Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford: www.todayshomeowner.com/how-to-keep-squirrels-from-damaging-your-home/

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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 day. Maybe your furniture, floors or drapes are getting bleached out. Maybe 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.

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.

 

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 old stand-bys have been upgraded in recent years to 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. 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.)

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 but help retain warmth in winter. These windows are typically double-glazed units containing two panes of glass with an inert gas trapped between them to increase insulation. Then, 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.

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

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It’s all in the details.

A Window Replacement Project with Unique Details

In late spring, we had a unique project. The homeowner wanted to replace her windows but did not want to disrupt the copper roof or the integrity of her home. (before photos below). Instead of pulling the whole bow window out, we installed individual inserts inside their existing frames. Thanks to the excellent collaboration between Liz Schroeder, our production manager; Bill McClaughry, Pella Rep, and our service team led by Petr, this job turned out wonderfully (after images below).

All in all, a wonderful job for a client who really wanted things just so. I think we hit our mark. And, above all, the client was pleased with the results.

Call us with your special project. We’re just a phone call away. Order today and we can install in as little as three weeks. Most installations only take one day. To schedule a free consultation call (847) 562-1212 or schedule a FREE consultation.

Before replacing windows.

 

After: A solution that made the homeowner very happy.

 

replacement windows
Additional windows on the home were replaced.

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Smart Windows Are Smart Additions to Your Space

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.

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Update Historic Windows for Charm and Efficiency

What’s better? To replace historic windows with new,low-emissivity windows and save energy? Or to keep the windows with their historic character and not save as much energy?

The debate rages between preservationists and designers-environmentalists, but there is a middle ground: renovating historic windows for the same performance as new windows. And there’s a substantial argument for saving them.

Not only do they add character that makes a house unique, but old windows are generally thicker and last longer than today’s windows, says the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Plus, as preservationists like to say, the greenest building (or window) is the one already built. No trips to the landfill. No new resources used.

Take a look (gallery above) at some of the ways that you can update your windows for energy efficiency, for a win-win situation.

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Protect Your Window Investment with a Little Soap and Water

Taking care of your windows

Hey, this is Chicago. So when the weather’s finally nice, we don’t want to miss a minute of it, right? That’s where I come in. The first spring day you throw open your doors and windows, I want those doors and windows to work perfectly and be beautiful.

Protect Your Window Investment with a Little Soap and Water

A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your windows and screens stay serviceable.

One of the best and simplest things you can do is wash them gently on a regular basis—like now, as the seasons change.

You’ll hear a lot of tips about the best ways to wash windows, including using ammonia, vinegar, newspapers, and so on. OK, whatever. You can also do a fine job with just a bucket of water, dish soap, a sponge, squeegee, and dry rags. But hey—I’m a simple guy.

To get started, first put down some towels if you’re washing windows indoors. Into a bucket of warm water, squeeze a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Wet a sponge in the bucket, squeeze out most of the water, and wash down the window.

Grab your squeegee and a clean, dry rag. Making sure to get into the corners and along the edges, pull the squeegee across the wet window, wiping it dry with the rag after each pass. Be careful to catch any drips, and change rags often. For best results, wash windows on a cloudy, cool day so the window can’t dry before you wipe it down.

Clean Screens Last Longer, Perform Better

Like windows, screens need love to look and perform their best. Whether you live in the busy city or leafy suburbs, stuff in the air accumulates on your screens.

Eventually, that dirt starts to break down the screen material, making it brittle. Regular washing removes the gunk. Less dirt will blow into your house on the breeze and your screens will last longer.

Here’s the best way to wash screens: Put some lukewarm water in your bucket and add a little dish soap or white vinegar. If you can take your screens down, wet them with a hose or spray bottle. Scrub gently with the soap solution; then rinse. Let the screens air-dry.

If you can’t take the screens down, start by vacuuming them well. Then wipe them with a soft rag or sponge dipped in soap solution. Be sure to put down towels to catch run-off. Wipe away soap residue with clean water; then dry, using a lint-free cloth.

How Can We Help?

My job is installing great doors and windows to your satisfaction. Your job is caring for those windows and doors so they keep working well. (But we can help).Spring is an important time for window and screen maintenance. It’s also a great time to replace any windows, doors or screens that don’t make you completely happy. Please give us a call with any questions. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free. To schedule, a consultation visit our scheduling pagehttps://mccannwindow.com/schedule-free-consultation-windows-doors/ or call (847) 562-1212.

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How You Benefit From Our Pella Platinum Certified Contractor Status

Platinum Status = Elite Pricing and Service

When it comes to choosing a new window or door, McCann is honored to be a Pella Platinum Certified Contractor. This industry recognition means we’re one of an elite group of remodeling companies nationwide.

Pella Platinum Certified Contractors have been tapped as peer leaders in the field because of our track record for superior service and sales. The certification is a mark of high quality and exceptional technical skill.

Pella Certification in Perspective

OK, that’s nice for us—but what’s it to you? Our Pella Platinum Certified Contractor status gets you optimum service and pricing.

As one of our customers, you enjoy some of the benefits Pella extends to us as Platinum-certified. Because we’re valuable to Pella, they give McCann Window orders optimum pricing and handling. We’re happy to pass on those advantages to you. It’s only fair: You made us successful, so we’re sharing the rewards.

Please know, though, that when you work with us, we’ll always recommend and install the product that’s exactly right for your home and budget, whomever makes it. We represent all the leading home remodeling product manufacturers.

We’re Just a Phone Call Away

Spring means the return of better weather and enjoying your home both indoors and out. At McCann Window & Exteriors, we’d be honored to be your partner in creating exactly the space that makes you happiest in any season. Please give us a call with any questions. We’re ready to serve you and estimates are free. Visit https://mccannwindow.com or call (847) 562-1212.

Happy spring!

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Tips on Window Safety

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 hate 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 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.

Unfortunately, they can also provide a way 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. Never go out without securing the windows. And even when you’re home, keep an eye on these openings. You don’t want to find uninvited guests having a field day with your belongings.

2 | Don’t Fall for Anything—Ever

Open windows on higher levels in your house pose a different problem – safety. Its no surprise that 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 age 5 die by 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, if your home has double-hung windows, open only the upper sash.
  • 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.
  • 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 cordless 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 Broke, 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 hunks 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 be of help with concerns regarding your house’s windows, doors, or siding. We’re standing by to help you create the home you absolutely love in 2019. Learn more about McCann Window & Exteriors by visiting https://mccannwindow.com or calling (847) 892-4071.

Happy Valentine’s Day!
Kevin McCann

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Window Replacement Dos and Don’ts

Good windows keep your family warm during the cold months

Deciding to replace your windows is a little like getting married: You’re making a big investment; you’re going to live with your decision for a long time; and you want whatever you choose to make home lots more pleasant.

How Do I Know If I Should Replace My Windows?

Again, this is a little like getting married: Sometimes you just really want to, and sometimes, by golly, you have to. So, how can you pick wisely? We have a few tips we hope will ease the process.

Chances are you know if you must replace windows. High energy bills, windows that fog up or won’t open, drafty rooms, water leaks, rotted wood, and bugs sneaking in are all signs it’s time to act. The good news is that new windows add to the resale value of your home. So you’re likely to get your investment back if you pick windows that fit the style and price range of your home.

Not every problematic window needs replacing, though. First, know that replacing old windows won’t automatically give you a snug house. You may get more payoff more quickly by adding insulation and sealing air leaks.

Second, if the window is basically sound, it’s often possible to strip off old finishes and re-paint or re-stain the window. Even glass that fogs up can be resealed without replacing the entire unit.

If, however, you can tell you have significant problems like wood rot, it’s time for the old heave-ho, in my book. Still not sure? A conversation with a general contractor can help clarify your options.

I Think I Want New Windows. Now What?

If you hire a professional to replace your windows, understand that you’re buying two things—the window itself and the team installing the window. To cut costs, some folks buy their own windows and then hire a handyman to put them in.

That works, but there are advantages to working with window replacement specialists who have all the tools and procedures for doing the job very quickly and well.

Next question is: Who’s doing the work? You or a professional? If you’re considering DIY, the web sites of manufacturers such as Pella, Marvin and Anderson will help you think through your choices. The website of the Efficient Windows Collaborative is another useful resource. You can also check with Consumer Reports to get replacement window ratings. Finally, the National Fenestration Ratings Council provides information on the energy-efficiency of different window products. Once you’ve done some research, a visit to your local home improvement store is probably in order.

Even among window replacement specialists, you have choices. The big, brand name companies such as Pella, Marvin, or Anderson have local franchises that focus on their products. Then there are smaller, local firms that may lead with a particular brand but also represent a variety of manufacturers. They can discuss many different products with you so that you find what’s best for your situation.

If I Hire a Replacement Window Company, How Do I Know They’re Good?

In a word: Research. Talk to your neighbors. Visit sites like Angie’s List, the Better Business Bureau, and Yelp. Experts recommend getting bids from at least five installers. Be sure to give each installer the same specs so that you get bids you can compare. Many people don’t realize that replacing the window does NOT automatically include replacing the structure around the window. So ask all the hard questions about exactly what the installer will and won’t do.

Then, check credentials. Any installer should be able to produce his contractor’s license, certifications, insurance bond, trade association memberships, contact information, project portfolio and office address upon request.

Finally, as you negotiate your project, be straightforward about your budget. You might find a deal if someone wants to drum up business during the slower winter months. And don’t forget to check for follow-up policies, extended warranties, or discounts. The good news is that window replacements can be done in any season. No need to wait for warm weather! So now could be the perfect time to beat the rush and get a jump on your next home improvement project.

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 be of help with concerns regarding your house’s windows, doors, or siding. We’re standing by to help you create the home you absolutely love in 2019. Learn more about McCann Window & Exteriors by visiting https://mccannwindow.com or calling (847) 892-4071.

Happy 2019!

Kevin McCann