September 14, 2023 by Kathleen Kearns

The Value of a View. Windows Can Transform Your Home

The Value of a View. A window doesn’t just let light into a house; it frames the world outside, drawing the eye and creating an ever-changing picture. Home improvement projects enhance your home and increase a property’s value. One such project that homeowners might consider is replacing their windows. The question is, does window replacement significantly impact a home’s value? The answer is a resounding yes.

Replacing old, worn-out windows with newer, energy-efficient ones can increase a home’s value by up to 10 percent. Energy-efficient windows not only improve the aesthetic appeal of a home but also reduce energy consumption, which translates to lower energy bills for the homeowner. Download the National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact Report.

Aesthetic Appeal

In addition to energy efficiency, updated windows can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your home. Modern window designs offer clean lines and sleek profiles that can transform a home’s facade. Well-placed, well-chosen windows can frame the outdoors like a beautiful painting, significantly enhancing the living experience within the home.

Overall, window replacement is a worthwhile investment for homeowners who want to increase their property’s value. Not only does it improve a home’s energy efficiency, but it also enhances its curb appeal. As a result, homeowners can expect to recoup a significant portion of their investment if they decide to sell their homes.

Energy Efficiency: Cost Savings Through Window Replacement

New, energy-efficient windows can dramatically lower heating and cooling costs. Old, drafty windows can let in cold air during the winter and hot air during the summer, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. By replacing old windows with energy-efficient models, homeowners can significantly reduce their energy bills, adding immediate value to their homes.

Natural Light: Brightening Your Home

The amount and quality of natural light that enters your home affect its ambiance. New windows with larger panes or less obstructive frames can let in more light, brightening up spaces and making them feel more significant. The benefits aren’t just aesthetic, either. Natural light has numerous health benefits, including improving mood and boosting productivity.

Maintenance and Longevity: The Lifespan of Your Investment

New windows often require less maintenance than older models. Features like tilt-in sashes make cleaning a breeze, while modern materials like vinyl or fiberglass resist warping, chipping, and peeling. With proper care, homeowners won’t worry about replacement costs for decades.

At McCann Windows & Doors, we are committed to providing our customers with the best service possible when it comes to window and door replacement. We understand that replacing windows and doors can be daunting, so we strive to make the process as easy as possible for our clients.

Our team of experts is highly trained in all aspects of window and door replacement. We use only the highest quality materials and work with some of the most reputable manufacturers in the industry. This ensures that our clients receive top-notch products that look great and are energy-efficient and long-lasting.

We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service. Our representatives are knowledgeable, friendly, and always happy to answer our clients’ questions. We go above and beyond to make sure that our customers are satisfied with our work and that their homes are left looking beautiful and functioning at their best.

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.

April 5, 2023 by Kathleen Kearns

BIRD VS. WINDOW.

Protecting Our Feathered Friends. Birds!

Spring is here! You may have experienced a thump against your window. A bird has collided with your window. Birds strike glass because reflective or transparent glass is often invisible to them. Between 100 million and 1 billion birds are estimated to be killed by collisions in the United States alone each year. Our lovely songbirds, warblers, finches, wrens, and sparrows are the most prone to crashes.

Bird vs. Window

There are two types of collisions; territorial aggression, a bird attacking its reflection, thinking it is a rival. This is a problem that is most common in spring as male birds are establishing and defending territories. And the second is full-speed collisions, where the bird doesn’t realize the difference between the window and their environment.

Birds are most active where the vegetation is. Plants and brushes placed near your windows are a common cause of bird strikes due to the reflection of the landscape and sky in the window.

How do you prevent bird-window collisions?

1. Create patterns on reflective glass surfaces (quantity and spacing matter: multiple markings 2 to 4 inches apart are recommended).
2. Install external screens on windows.
3. Close blinds or curtains.
4. Move interior plants away from windows.
5. Place bird feeders directly on windows.
6. Turn off the lights.

Anti-Collision Treatments For Existing Windows

There are several DIY and professionally installed options to deter small birds from colliding with your window. Put decals, stickers, sun catchers, mylar strips, masking tape, or other objects (even sticky notes) on the outside surface of the window. But remember, these solutions are only effective when spaced very closely.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology lists these options for creating a safe environment for birds:

• Tempera paint or soap. Mark the outside of the window with soap or tempera paint. You can use a grid pattern or creative patterns no more than four inches by two inches.
• Window Decals. Put decals, stickers, sun catchers, mylar strips, masking tape, or other objects (even sticky notes) on the outside surface of the window. Spacing is key. These are only effective when spaced closely and placed outside the window. We have used WindowAlert. They have a variety of decals. Note that hawk silhouettes do not deter birds.
• Dot Patterns and Tape. Long-lasting tape products offer an easier way to apply the correct spacing of dots across your window.
• Acopian Bird Savers. Also known as “zen curtains,” these closely spaced ropes hang over windows. They do the work of tape or decals but are easier to install and can be aesthetically pleasing.
• Screens. Installing mosquito screens over your windows is very effective as long as they are on the outside of the window and cover the entire surface.
• Netting. Cover the glass on the outside with netting at least three inches from the glass, taut enough to bounce birds off before they hit. Small-mesh net (around 5/8″ or 1.6 cm) is best so that birds don’t get their heads or bodies entangled but will bounce off unharmed. You can mount the netting on a frame, such as a storm window frame, for easy installation and removal.
• One-way transparent film. Products such as Collidescape permit people on the inside to see out but make the window appear opaque on the outside. According to Sheppard, they can reduce the amount of light that comes into your window (this can also reduce your cooling costs).
For a more detailed overview of solutions, visit the American Bird Conservancy, a nonprofit group’s website. They have reviewed about 200 window materials and treatments for bird safety, types of glass for new construction, films, decals, and others for existing windows.

Resources

• American Bird Conservancy, https://abcbirds.org/glass-collisions/
• The Cornell Lab: “All About Birds,” https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/why-birds-hit-windows-and-how-you-can-help-prevent-it/#
• Great video webinar from Audubon New York: “An Inside Look: The Science and Solutions for Bird-window Collisions, “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUP8o5bKVUU

Spring is an excellent time to give your home a facelift.

Time for window and door renovations. During the spring months, the weather is less hot and humid. That’s important for window installation. While you can still have windows done during the summer, the reduction in humidity and heat can help minimize the amount of disruption to daily life in the home. If you are thinking about a replacement project this year, please call us, and we can strategize to create a plan that fits your budget. Schedule a free consultation.

September 28, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

Home Energy Efficiency Improvements Tax Rebates

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:*

Purchase 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.
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

Increase 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

May 11, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

Energy-efficient Windows

How About This Weather! It’s Warm Today.

This sudden uptick in warm weather prompted me to think about energy-efficient windows. We historically think about these types of windows when cold weather is approaching, but they also play an essential role in keeping your home cool during warmer months.

Energy Saver Update

Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/update-or-replace-windows

Energy-efficient windows are an essential consideration for both new and existing homes. Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.

If you select windows for new construction or replace existing windows, choosing the most efficient windows, you can afford that work best in your climate is important.

If your existing windows are in good condition, reducing the energy loss through windows can make your home more comfortable and can help reduce your utility bills.

You have two broad options if you hope to reduce the amount of energy lost through your windows and improve the comfort of your home:

Update your existing windows to improve efficiency
Replace your windows.

Update Existing Windows to Improve Efficiency

If your windows are in good condition, taking steps to improve their efficiency may be the most cost-effective option to increase the comfort of your home and save money on energy costs. There are several things you can do to improve the efficiency of your existing windows:

Check existing windows for air leaks
Caulk and weatherstrip.
Add energy-efficient window coverings. Learn more about your window covering options.
Add solar control film
Add exterior shadings, such as awnings, exterior blinds, or overhangs.

With any efficiency improvements, take steps to ensure proper installation and check for air leaks again after making the improvement.

Replace Your Windows

If you decide to replace your windows, you will have to make several decisions about the type of windows you purchase and the type of replacement. We can assist with reviewing the options.

You will also need to decide what features you want in your windows such as:

Frame types
Glazing type
Gas fills and spacers
Operation types

Selecting the Right Energy-efficient Window

You also need to consider design, energy use and labeling, warranties, and proper installation in choosing the window type.

First, look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new windows. Then review ratings on the energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to find the most efficient windows for your needs. NFRC ratings are included on all ENERGY STAR certified windows and provide a reliable way to determine a window’s energy properties and compare products.

Window Selection Tips

Look for the ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels.
Consider selecting gas-filled windows with Low-E coatings in colder climates to reduce heat loss. In warmer climates, select windows with coatings to reduce heat gain.
Choose a low U-factor for better thermal resistance in colder climates; the U-factor is the rate at which a window conducts non-solar heat flow.
Look for a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). SHGC is a measure of solar radiation admitted through a window. Low SHGCs reduce heat gain in warm climates.
Select windows with low U-factors and low SHGCs to maximize energy savings in temperate climates with both cold and hot seasons.
Look for whole-unit U-factors and SHGCs, rather than center-of-glass U-factors and SHGCs. Whole-unit numbers more accurately reflect the energy performance of the entire product.

Learn more about energy performance ratings for windows from Energy Update.

Installation is key

Proper installation ensures energy efficiency and comfort. Have your windows installed by trained professionals according to the manufacturer’s instructions; otherwise; your warranty may be void.

Window installation varies depending on the type of window, the construction of the house (wood, masonry, etc.), the exterior cladding (wood siding, stucco, brick, etc.), and the type (if any) of a weather-restrictive barrier. Windows, flashing, and air sealing should be installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to perform correctly.

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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 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.

We offer quality brand energy-efficient windows and doors.

Read more about Marvin’s selection: https://www.marvin.com/energy-efficiency

Pella Offers an Excellent Selection

InsulShield® glass collection1 offers the most innovative and energy-saving choices, with recommendations based on each climate. The options below give the best energy efficiency and protection from the sun and temperatures year-round.

– Advanced Low-E Insulating Triple-Pane Glass with Argon2 features three panes of glass and up to three layers of Low-E thermal protection, with argon between the glass.

– Advanced Low-E Insulating Double-Pane Glass with Argon2 uses insulating double-pane glass with two coats of Low-E thermal protection. This glass also includes argon inserted between the panes of glass to increase energy efficiency.

– Pella’s SunDefense™ Low-E Insulating Double-Pane Glass with Argon2 also offers insulating double-pane glass with a Low-E coating made using three layers of Low-E solar protection to keep your home cooler in the summer. This glass blocks 95 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays and has argon inserted into the space between the glass to improve your energy efficiency.

April 27, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

Patio Tips To Create Your Perfect Summer Retreat, Right At Home

Summer is in the air, and that means it’s time for America’s favorite pastime: Grilling on the patio!

When we host barbecues, our deck or backyard becomes part of the kitchen, as cooks and guests move in and out. When you’re trying to get to that grill with three full plates and a drink, you don’t want a door that sticks. You want your company to be able to move easily from inside to out with screens that glide like butter.

It’s not all practicality, either. Patio doors can be a beautiful addition to the interior of your home, too. The full glass allows lots of light in and connects you to the outdoors – while the screens keep the worst of the outdoors where it belongs. I’ve highlighted the most asked-after styles of patio doors we offer at McCann below, but if you’re looking for some style updates, call 847-852-4513 for a free consultation. We can help you create the ultimate summer retreat – right in your own backyard!

Hinged Patio Doors

Choose from two movable doors that swing open from the sides, one movable with one fixed door, or a single door for simple elegance.

Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding doors don’t swing open, so they require a lot less floor space. You can place furniture nearby and enjoy the view and natural light.

Lift and Slide Patio Doors

We might not be able to give you the view, but we can get you these beautiful doors in pine, primed pine, vertical grain Douglas fir, or mahogany.

Sliding French Patio Doors

Sliding French doors provide traditional French door elegance and an upscale look in a space-saving sliding design.

Pella Replacement Doors

Pella has a wonderful selection of patio doors from contemporary to traditional styles. We can help you choose the door option that fits your home and lifestyle with Pella’s various styles and materials. Define your home’s style and fit your architecture by choosing from hinged, sliding, bifold, or multi-slide doors.

Pella replacement patio doors. https://www.pellabranch.com/windows-doors/doors/patio-doors/

We can walk you through the process of selecting just the right option for your style and budget.

Schedule a FREE Consultation by filling out our form.

April 26, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

Are Replacement Windows a Good Investment?

When it comes to home renovation, not all projects are created equal.

The financially-smart homeowner, when considering remodels or renovations, is perhaps asking a few pointed questions:

Are replacement windows a renovation that will increase my home’s resale value?
Does replacing windows save me money in the short term?
Will this renovation improve my quality of life?

So how does home window replacement measure up? With more than a dozen things you could invest in around the house, is it a good financial move to replace your home windows?

Replacement windows can reap a return on investment.

The leading trade publication Remodeling Magazine agrees that home window replacement is one of the top return-on-investment projects in its 2021 trend report.

Window replacement follows the multi-year trend of exterior improvement projects. These curb appeal updates make the whole block look better and raise the value of your home for potential buyers.

Replacing your windows gives your home a makeover that the whole neighborhood will notice. You’ll get a higher selling price if you decide to put your home on the real estate market. New windows announce to the world that your home is well-maintained.

New windows will save you money every month.

Are you planning to stay in your home for a while? When you invest in home window replacement, there are short- and long-term benefits.

Installing new windows can give you a price break on heating and cooling costs. Old windows are often drafty or leaky, meaning your heating efforts in the winter and cooling measures in the summer are less effective. New windows come with tight seals, and you can even invest further by upgrading to double or triple-paned glass. Today, there are several energy-efficient window and door options.

By making your home more energy-efficient, you’ll save money on utility bills every month and make your home more comfortable throughout the seasons. Home window replacement can help with the family budget and is good for the environment.

Transform your home with replacement windows.

If you’re stuck with leaky, unappealing single-pane windows from decades ago, window replacement will not only save you money — it can transform your living space.

Low morning light in your kitchen or a view from your living room? Consider switching from double-hung windows to a casement window for uninterrupted landscapes. A dark room? Installing a new specialty window can transform a room.

And, window replacement lets you bring your style and personality to your space. Whether vast, open-concept picture-frame windows, or cute farmhouse-style crisscrossing white frames, replacing your windows makes your home yours.

Increase joy and save money.

Updating your windows, doors, and siding increases your home’s curb appeal and helps reduce your energy bills. 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.

March 14, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

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

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.

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.]

March 14, 2022 by Kathleen Kearns

The Homeowner’s Severe Cold Weather Survival Guide

Homeowner’s Guide & Tips for when the temperatures drop, keep hazards at bay with these simple steps:

Inside the house

Keep your house heated to a minimum of 65 degrees. The temperature inside the walls where the pipes are located is substantially colder than the walls themselves. A temperature lower than 65 degrees might not keep the inside walls from freezing.
Check the location for the main water shutoff in your home. And refresh your memory on—or learn—how it works, in case you have to use it.
Open hot and cold faucets enough to let them drip slowly. In severely frigid temperatures, keeping water moving within the pipes will help prevent freezing.
Check those fireplaces, wood stoves and electric heaters are working properly. Make sure there are no combustible items near the heat sources and watch them closely.
Keep your fireplace flue closed when you’re not using it.
Ask a neighbor to check the house regularly any time you’re away. If pipes freeze or if there’s a water leak, quick action could mean far less damage.

Outside the house

The weight of snow could damage your roof. Backed-up gutters might allow water to seep into your house. Vigilance is key during severe weather—stay ahead of the potential hazards outside your home.

Keep sidewalks and entrances to your home free from snow and ice. You don’t want anyone to slip and fall.
Watch for ice dams near gutter downspouts. Ice dams can cause water to build up and seep into your house. Clear gutters of leaves and debris to allow runoff from melting snow and ice to flow freely.
Keep your garage doors closed. This will prevent weather damage to whatever’s stored in there. Plus, if your garage is attached to your house, the home entrance door from the garage is probably not as well insulated as an exterior door so this will keep more heat in.
Double-check for dead, damaged, or dangerous tree branches and have them removed. Even if they looked sound earlier in the year, trees can be affected by ice, snow, or wind. When stressed, branches can fall and damage your house or car, or injure someone on or near your property.

In the event of a problem

Sometimes the unfortunate happens—but homeowners that apply quick action can minimize the damage.

Don’t wait for frozen pipes to burst. If your pipes are frozen, take measures to thaw them immediately, or call a plumber for assistance.
If your pipes burst, first turn off the water. You know now where the main water shut-off is, right? Cut off the flow, then attend to the mess and …
Properly dry and repair any water damage. This will help prevent any potential problems with mold.
Call your insurance professional as soon as possible—before you call a repair service.

How Can We Help?

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) 892-4071 or schedule a free consultation here. We’ll be right over.

Insurance Information Institute. Source: https://www.iii.org/article/tips-surviving-severe-cold-weather

February 3, 2021 by Kyle Akerman

The Heart of the Things We Do

Customer Service: The Heart of the Things We Do

“A house is made with walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Customer Service: The Heart of the Things We Do

“Home” has many different definitions for many different people. But whether it’s a quiet sanctuary from a hectic world or the center of raucous fun and laughter—or both—for most of us, home really is where the heart is.

I thought about this in light of some recent projects of which I’m particularly proud.

One of our customers consulted with us on refurbishing the glazing trim on his windows. It was unique and had been beautifully done, but was definitely in need of an upgrade. We discovered the maker had gone out of business, but through diligence and a good deal of detective work, we could locate and provide the exact trim for our client.

We weren’t quite as fortunate with another hunt for unique window trim that was no longer being manufactured. But undaunted, we set our master carpenter to the task, and he was able to sand and shape our wood to faithfully recreate this lovely and important aspect of our customer’s home.

And sometimes, doing nothing is the best—and the right—thing. A customer consulted with us on making some renovations that weren’t necessary, so we advised him accordingly.

At McCann, we are fortunate to have both the skill and the capacity to not just do, but do right. As proud as I am of our work and craftsmanship, I’m proudest of our entire team’s real dedication to our customers. It is at the heart of what we do.

Home renovations, large or small, can be a bit daunting. Whether you’re consulting with other home improvement professionals or us, I hope you will expect, and demand, the high level of skill, creativity, and dedication that your home—the heart of your life—deserves.

All the best,
Kevin McCann

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Brands We Work With

Pella • Marvin • Sunrise • Jim Hardie Siding

August 10, 2020 by Kyle Akerman

When One Door Closes, Another One…

Alexander Graham Bell famously said, “When one door closes, another opens.”

In recent times we’ve certainly seen some doors close—literally and figuratively—which led me to think about which doors or windows have opened.

With work, social and other activities curtailed, many of us have turned our attention to, or increased our attention on, cultural pursuits. I found myself noticing references to and images of windows and doors in culture, and their representation. It’s astonishing what you see when you really look.

From a 16^th century, Michelangelo drawing of a door to the Death Star window in “The Empire Strikes Back,” windows and doors, it seems, have a rather important and storied place in our cultural history. Who knew?

In movies, there are dozens: Holly Golightly gazing through the window at Tiffany’s; the door to the Emerald City in “The Wizard of Oz”; the leg lamp in the window in “A Christmas Story”; or the heartbreaking scene from “Titanic” when Rose floats on the door that is a makeshift raft. Most pertinent of all, perhaps, is Hitchcock’s “Rear Window”, but it’s not the only thriller involving memorable windows and/or doors. The poster for “The Exorcist” features Father Merrin outside the windows of the possessed Regan MacNeil’s home, and who can forget Jack Nicholson saying, “Heeeere’s Johnny!” through the axed bathroom door in “The Shining”? (This scene is a twofer for a window-and door guy like me: Shelley Duvall had just tried to escape through the bathroom window).

Speaking of the bathroom window, there is that Beatles song (she came in through it), as well as Beethoven’s “O Mary at the Window Be”, “How Much is That Doggie in the Window”, or “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” by Credence Clearwater Revival, to name just a few. There’s also, of course, a band: The Doors.

Shakespeare asked in “Romeo and Juliet”, “But soft! What light through yonder window breaks?” and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle made the door to 221B Baker Street world-famous. Artists Hopper, Matisse, and DaVinci (in “The Last Supper”) prominently featured windows and doors, and even astronaut Sally Ride is quoted from her experience in space: “But when I wasn’t working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.”

And there are myriad photos, among them the famous, haunting photo of President John F. Kennedy, his back to the camera and framed by the window in the Oval Office, titled “The Loneliest Job in the World.”

But what I keep coming back to is that Bell quote. There is a bright side to be found amidst almost every struggle. For some of us, that might mean having the time to notice things we hadn’t before. Whatever form it takes for you, I hope you are discovering your personal open window or door.

How Can We Help With Your Next Window or Door Project?

Let us help you get clear on the best ways to keep you and your home in tip-top shape, 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) 892-4071 or schedule a free consultation here. We’ll be right over.

Yours,
Kevin McCann

Replacement Front Entry Doors

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