McCann Window Northbrook Chicago IL

847-562-1212 | 3375 Commercial Ave. | Northbrook, IL 60062

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6 reasons to consider McCann for your next siding, tuckpointing, painting project

When it comes to home improvement, there’s the thrill of envisioning the finished project—all of your rooms freshened with a new paint color or overhauling the entire look of your home with new vinyl siding.

And then there’s the agonizing process of researching contractors, obtaining estimates and trying to compare apples-to-apples in order to make the right decision for you and your family.

At McCann Window & Exteriors, we have a suggestion: Eliminate the headaches and the hassles that come with that research phase and choose us for your next tuckpointing, vinyl siding or painting project.

Here’s why:

1) You’ll save an enormous amount of time when you choose a firm that you already know and trust. There’s also a sense of relief that comes with saying, “I know you. I trust you. Please take care of this for us.”

2) We have excellent people on our team. By “excellent,” we mean that they’re good at what they do—first and foremost. Not to mention, they’re good guys whom you’ll feel comfortable having in and around your home.

3) We listen to what you want. And then we help you make the right choices for your situation, budget and lifestyle. Because we have a diverse line of products from name-brand manufacturers, we can focus on choosing what you want and need. Contractors with a limited selection have to hype up their products to convince you to buy, even if they’re not right for you.

4) You can depend on us to do what we say we’re going to do, on time and for a fair price. Because you’ve worked with us before, you know that to expect. We’re straightforward. We don’t play games. We genuinely want the best for you, and we try to demonstrate that in everything we do.

5) We take the time to do the job right. Some replacement contractors just want to get in and out with their piece of the puzzle, even if it means overlooking a minor repair or issue that could be more problematic in the long run. We spend time up front to address repair needs, such as replacing rotted wood before installing vinyl siding.

6) We communicate with you to ensure you know what’s going on. You’ll never have to wonder what the status of your project is. From myself to our office team to our installers, we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

If you see mortar or brick crumbling, have rooms that need to be repainted or are ready for a new vinyl siding exterior, let us know. We can help.

Sincerely,
Kevin McCann
Email Me

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Gutter Care

When gutters are working as they should, most people probably don’t think about them much. After all, gutters are above our eye level, they don’t require daily care, and they usually do their job effectively and quietly. But every so often you may wonder: how often you should clean your gutters? Why? Here’s a quick primer.

The frequency with which you should clean your gutters will depend on a number of factors. However, as a general rule, you should have gutters cleaned at least twice a year: in the spring and in the fall. Making this chore a part of your spring cleaning and back-to-school prep can help you remember to keep to the schedule. However, that’s not the final answer. Are there a lot of trees near your roof? Have you had a lot of rainfall lately? if you live in a particularly wooded or rainy area, you may need to adjust and clean your gutters more often. vinyl siding - home front facade gutter

Don’t forget that there are other environmental factors to consider. If your house is surrounded by lots of pine trees, you’ll want to keep a special eye on your gutters. Pine needles are shed year-round, and there are so many of them! On the other hand, if you live in a very cold area, watch out for ice in your gutters during the winter. Ice can be very destructive if unchecked.

Dirty, full gutters can cause any number of problems. Aside from expensive and time-consuming structural damage, standing water encourages mosquitoes, bugs, mold, and disease. Don’t let this happen to you! Keep your gutters in good shape and repair, and when it’s time to replace them, call McCann Windows and Exteriors in Northbrook, IL!

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When to Replace Your Windows

We look through our windows every day, but if everything is going well, we don’t really see them. How do you know when it’s time to replace your windows? Here are some questions to ask yourself.

  • Window InstallationDo you want to lower your energy costs? New windows can save you up to 10-20% of your energy costs! At McCann Windows and Exteriors in Northbrook, IL, we can work with you to select the best energy-efficient windows for your budget.
  • Are your windows damaged? This is the most obvious, but since we see our windows so often, it can be easy to overlook them. If windows are warped, broken, or damaged, it’s best to replace them before they cause more structural damage.
  • Remember that homes in certain areas are more susceptible to damage. Is your city on the coast, where the air is more humid, or in an area that is prone to earthquakes or severe storms? Windows can be damaged without showing visible signs. If your home has recently been through a severe storm, it’s best to have a professional inspect your windows.
  • Does your decor need to be redone? New windows can go a long way towards refreshing the look and feel of a home. Do you want more light or ventilation in some rooms? If you’re looking to sell your home any time soon, beautiful new windows are a great selling point.

McCann Windows and Exteriors has a great selection to freshen up your home or replace broken windows. Contact us and let’s get started!

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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

  1. bubble wrap and tapeBubble 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Choose smart window treatments. Cell shades trap the air in pockets around the windows, preventing major temperature fluctuations in the home.
  4. Utilize shutters. They’re not just for decoration outside. Interior shutters prevent hot air from leaking into the house, reducing summer energy costs.
  5. High-reflectivity window film. You can apply the film yourself or get help from a professional.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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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.

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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.

  • window frame chicken wire diyPicture 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

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Take Spring Cleaning Outside

Who says spring cleaning is just for inside the house? Winter can be rough on the outside of your house. Start fresh with these spring cleaning tips for your home’s exterior.

woman washing windowsWash Your Windows

You can extend the life of your windows by keeping them in good shape. Clean away pollen and dirt buildup, as well as any debris that’s collected on the windowsill.

Clean Home Siding

Does your siding look lackluster? It’s time for a spring clean. Pressure wash home siding to remove built-up grime. Be careful not to scour wood or other soft sidings with too much pressure. If there’s mildew growing on your home’s exterior, add a mildew cleaner to the water in the reservoir before spraying the house.

Clean the Deck

Because decks are flat surfaces, they get direct abuse from the elements, standing strong under piles of snow, layers of ice, and extended moisture as winter finally melts away. Use your pressure washer to remove dirt from your deck. If the seal is wearing thin, reapply the stain to protect your deck from the elements.

Repair the Roof

Look for loose shingles on the roof, paying special attention to areas near chimneys, vents, and other openings. Replace any missing shingles. Clean debris off of the roof, especially in joints like where the roof meets the chimney.

Clean the Gutters

How do we know it’s spring? Because it’s time for annual gutter maintenance. Clean the gutters of leaves and debris. Check the gutters for clogs by running water through them. If gutter repairs are necessary, take care of them before the rainy season starts.

Does your home have old siding, gutters, windows, or doors? Call McCann to refresh your home exterior for spring.

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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!

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5 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home

Start the New Year with Home Improvements

Start the New Year Right with Home Improvements

The start of the new year gives you a chance to give your home some improvements in order to keep it in good condition. When you make your list of New Year’s resolutions consider putting the following winter home improvement projects on it.

Test Energy Usage

Reducing the amount of energy your home uses helps you save money over the course of the new year. If you’re not sure how much you typically use, conduct an energy audit. This involves checking for air leaks around doors and windows, insulating attic hatches, and water heaters, and reducing phantom energy use by unplugging appliances.

Deep Clean the House

Instead of waiting for spring, give your home deep cleaning in winter. This means thoroughly wiping down all surfaces, removing as much dirt and grime as possible, and clearing out clutter.

Replace Worn Fixtures

If you have doors, windows, and other fixtures that have some wear and tear, consider replacing them this year. This helps spruce up your home a makeover while also decreasing your energy usage.

Budget for Home Improvements in 2017

While fixing up your home is a great idea for the new year, don’t let it hurt your budget. Make a list of all the projects you hope to accomplish, then determine how much each will cost. This helps ensure that your winter home improvement projects stay within your budget.

Paint the Exterior

If the outside of your house is looking faded or worn, giving it a fresh paint color can liven it up. Look over paint color options that would suit your home, and consider hiring a professional contractor to handle this project for you if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself.

If you need home enhancements in Northbrook, IL, please contact McCann Windows & Exteriors for more information.

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Merry Christmas from McCann

Merry Christmas and Happy HolidaysMerry Christmas and Happy Holidays

There’s a crispness in the air, a sweet breath of snow, and a warm and merry spirit that reminds us that the Christmas season is in full swing and we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. It’s the time of year when we open our homes to friends and family, welcoming them into rooms festively decorated and full of sweet and savory scents. Everyone may be crowding shopping centers looking for that perfect gift, but we all know that the real heart of the season awaits us at home. There’s nothing better than celebrating the holidays with the people you love.

The McCann family would like to thank you for welcoming us into your homes. We’re grateful for the chance to make your holidays a little warmer and brighter. We wish you a blessed holiday season, whether you’re curling up in front of the fireplace with your spouse and kids or braving the cold to visit the in-laws this Christmas. May your holidays be merry and bright!

Wishing you all the best in this season of joy and a happy New Year to our friends in Northbrook, from all your friends at McCann Windows and Exteriors.

 

Link to Pentatonix Holiday song >