Windows

Debunking Hurricane Myths

The sun is shining and the flowers are blooming, but there is still one menacing cloud hanging over us. It’s called hurricane season. Hurricane season officially starts on June 1st and ends on November 30th. Take a look at the following myths regarding hurricanes and how you can better protect your family and home.

Hurricane Season is Upon Us

In just a few weeks, Hurricane Season will arrive in the Houston area. To make sure you’re not caught unaware, stop by the Renaissance Windows & Doors showroom to take a look at the following impact windows.

Keep Your Home Cool

Spring definitely brings beautiful weather, but it also brings what most Houstonians dread, the heat. When you’re sitting on the couch next to your windows, do you feel heat radiating from your windows? Does your dining room with large windows in it always feel like it’s 110°? Then it’s time to think about replacing your windows. Take a look at these options that can help you stay cool this spring and summer.

Hurd Introduces New Low-E 366 Neat with Preserve Glass Windows

All of us at Renaissance Windows and Doors are excited to introduce Hurd’s latest ultra-efficient glazing options, the new Low-E 366 Neat with Preserve glaze. Let’s take a look!

New Year, New Windows

Last week we offered you some of our favorite ideas for adding holiday curb appeal to your home. As you have started hanging decorations, have you looked closely at your existing windows and doors? It may be time to ask yourself if you are getting the most for your money. When you were putting lights in the windows, did you feel a draft? Perhaps after you hung the wreath and closed the front door you felt cool air seeping in; maybe you just noticed it’s almost time to paint the windows ... again.

Impact Windows and Doors: Beyond Storm Protection

Last week we introduced you to the two brands of Impact Windows and Doors that we carry at Renaissance Windows & Doors: Hurd FeelSafe and Showcase® Custom Vinyl. Impact windows and doors are an excellent option for Gulf Coast residents, who know only too well the kind of damage that hurricanes—and other high-wind, heavy-rain, high-impact debris carrying storms—can cause to a home.

Window Glass: Know Your Glazes

When it comes to window glass, there is more there than meets the eye. To many of us, windows are just glass, fixed into a frame, and installed into the walls of our home. They let us see out, let others see in (if we want), and help keep the air in our homes cool or warm, depending on the season. But is that all there is to a window? We don’t think so.

Installation and Lead Certification

Home renovation projects increase sharply during spring and summer months, the result of both good weather and increased home sales. If you are thinking about a window replacement project, you are probably running across information about lead certification requirements implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) back in 2008. Federal law dictates lead-safe work practices and accreditation are required for renovation firms, to ensure that building contractors follow lead-safe procedures when operating in homes built before 1978. As of April 22, 2010, federal laws require:• Renovation firms must be certified under EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule;

Texas Home & Garden Show Report

We had a wonderful time at the 26th annual Texas Home & Garden Show at Reliant Center, and the response to our special 33% discount offer for garden show attendees was terrific! We are looking forward to helping our clients replace their old doors and windows with new, more beautiful, more energy efficient replacements.

Windows and Doors ... More romantic than you think!

Flowers die and chocolates melt, so how about giving a Valentine’s Day gift that will keep on giving? New windows and doors are gifts that are built to last. Long after we stash away our greeting cards, long after we’ve eaten the last chocolate truffle, windows and doors will continue to protect our homes from the elements, keep our homes energy efficient, and look beautiful day in and day out, 365 days a year. Why not treat your spouse, yourself, your family, and your home to a Valentine’s Day gift that will be enjoyed for years to come? True love lasts, and so should a high-quality replacement window.

Texas Home and Garden Show February 10-12

The team at Renaissance Windows and Doors invites you to join us at the 26th annual Houston Home & Garden Show at Reliant Center, February 10-12, 2012. This is Houston’s premier “One Stop Shopping Opportunity” for your home and garden needs. Not only will you find windows and doors, but ceilings, floors—and everything that goes in between! Visit Reliant Center February 10-12 and find over 700 experts, products, services, and ideas to every home improvement and lifestyle project you can imagine.

Cold Weather Insulation

We have been blessed with a very mild winter this year in Houston, but don’t let the unseasonably warm temperatures fool you—your home needs to be insulated against cold temperatures in the winter just like it needs to stay cool during the sweltering summer months.

Windows: Wood Types and Materials

Many of our clients have questions about wood windows versus other window material types. There are pros and cons to any material you choose, so let’s start with a brief background of some of the pluses and minuses for each.

Testing Windows and Doors for Drafts

It seemed like summer might never end here in Houston, but this last week has finally brought cooler temperatures. With these cooler temperatures comes a new set of energy efficiency concerns, as we move from keeping cool to staying warm and cozy. You have certainly noticed the chill in the air when venturing outside, but if you are experiencing a chill inside your home it may be time to evaluate your windows and doors to determine whether they are letting in drafts.  

JELD WEN Wood Tilt & Turn Windows

We’ve talked about JELD WEN doors on our blog in the past, so you already know how much we love their amazing products. Their fiberglass doors are truly works of art, with the look and feel of solid wood, right down to knots and cracks that give each one an individual character. Today we want to talk to you about JELD WEN windows; specifically, their incredible “Tilt and turn” windows, a custom window package that offers form, function, and versatility for homeowners looking for something special.

Energy Efficiency: Heating vs. Cooling

It was one long, hot summer here in Houston and we have all seen the effects of the high temperatures on our electric bills. Lately temperatures have been dropping into a more comfortable range—in fact, we have had some downright chilly mornings and evenings. It’s quite a roller coaster ride, but it’s also a reminder that our homes need to be energy efficient no matter what the temperatures outside are reading on the thermostat. Whether we are heating or cooling our homes, energy efficiency is important, and that’s where Renaissance Windows & Doors comes in. You will find all the information on energy efficiency you need on our website and you will find all the products you need to make your home more energy efficient when you visit our show room.

Low Maintenance Windows: Glass Makes the Difference

It truly is amazing the difference the right glass can make when choosing replacement windows. The glass has everything to do with light and heat control, as well as visibility. When you choose the right glass you are improving the energy efficiency of your home, protecting your home from the elements (heat, moisture, wind), protecting your furnishings from sun damage, regulating sound and light that enters your home, and providing a measure of privacy and safety for your home and your family. 

Your Windows, Your Furniture

There is a definite relationship between your windows and your furniture; in fact, the two are related in a couple of different ways. The first way is probably one you have thought about before in terms of your windows and your chairs, tables, and couches, in terms of where to place these pieces in a room to maximize comfort from the heat, light, and fresh air that travels through your windows.

Fall Savings Specials at Renaissance Windows and Doors

If you have been thinking about a window replacement project the time to buy is now! At Renaissance Windows and Doors we have some truly incredible money-saving opportunities for our customers coming up!

Choosing the Right Materials for Replacement Windows and Doors

There are many things to consider when choosing the right materials for your replacement windows and doors. You know you have to work within your budget, as well as consider factors such as climate, energy efficiency, and your home’s design aesthetic to determine the best options for your project.

Pros & Cons: Fiberglass vs. Vinyl

Choosing the right materials is an important part of window and door replacement projects. Any choice involves pros and cons, and it is crucial to consider a variety of factors when deciding between one material over another: environment, home design, energy efficiency, and budget must be weighed. In order to help you make this decision, we want to present you with information about the pros and cons of fiberglass and vinyl in window and door replacement.

Infinity vs. “Regular” Fiberglass

We talk a lot about our line of Infinity by Marvin windows and doors, and for good reason—Infinity has over 80 years of experience in crafting top-of-the-line windows and doors; products of “superior quality, with a human touch.” Infinity’s fine craftsmanship is the secret to their longevity in the industry, and their windows and doors are both beautiful and long-lasting. When you choose Infinity by Marvin you need not choose between high performance and aesthetics, because Infinity by Marvin products delivers both.

Now Available at Renaissance Windows and Doors: Infinity by Marvin Half-Rounds

We are always thrilled to show our clients our Infinity by Marvin line of replacement windows, and now Renaissance Windows and Doors can offer you even more from this innovative line. We have added the Round Top Infinity windows to our line of Infinity products, giving you more options for your window replacement project. Increase light and visibility, and add distinctive style with these beautiful half-round windows that add visual interest to any space in your home.

Certificate of Completion

From start to finish, Renaissance Windows and Doors makes every client—and their home—a priority. We start by answering your questions when you stop in to our showroom, and every step of the way after that. At Renaissance we understand that your house is more than a house; it’s your home, your safe haven, the center of your family life. In addition to bringing you top-quality products like Infinity by Marvin and Hurd, we also promise you the installation advantage of having those products installed by our professional installation team rather than contract workers hired “by the job.” This installation advantage works to your advantage in several ways: our installers are employees which means we have vetted them and they are insured; all installers are certified for lead paint removal; installers follow step-by-step guidelines for product installation which ensures quality work and protects you via our installation warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

We encourage our clients to ask us questions: about our products, our installers, our warrantees and guarantees, about government lead paint requirements—about anything! We know that replacing your doors and windows can be as overwhelming as it is exciting, and we want you to feel confident and comfortable in choosing Renaissance Windows and Doors as your home renovation partner. We want to review a few Frequently Asked Questions with you here on the blog, and encourage you to contact us with any other questions you might have regarding window and door replacement.

Window pros and cons: Wood vs. Fiberglass

Last week on the blog we talked about choosing the right windows for your home based on architecture and style. This week we are talking about the importance of choosing the right materials. The two most popular materials for replacement windows are wood and fiberglass, and there are pros and cons to choosing each. By taking into consideration factors like environment, home design, energy efficiency, and your personal budget, you can make the best, most informed decision for your home.

Architecture & Style: Choosing the right design for your home

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right windows for your home: cost, climate, durability, and energy efficiency, to name a few. In previous blog posts we’ve discussed some of your options for increasing the value and performance of your windows with glazes and glass, taking advantage of extended tax credits, and the importance of manufacturer warranties and installation guarantees like our Peace of Mind maintenance plan. But there is another thing to consider when choosing your doors and windows—something that realtors have been talking about for years: location, location, location. Where you live is important in terms of geography and climate, but beyond that your location in your chosen city matters, too. Read on:

Glazes and Glass: What’s the Difference?

When choosing replacement windows style is important, but substance is what matters. At Renaissance Windows and Doors we strive to deliver both by carrying top-of-the-line products, and by providing expert installers to install them in your home. When you factor in our Peace of Mind Maintenance program—which warranties windows and doors installed by Renaissance for two years from the date of original installation—you can be confident in our commitment to client satisfaction.

The Renaissance Difference: Installation Advantage

Your path to new windows and doors starts on our showroom floor; once you’ve selected the product that is right for you, the next step is the installation process. When you choose Renaissance Windows and Doors for your home project, you are choosing excellence, including a professional installation by a master installer on our staff. We don’t use contract labor for installation, which means that you benefit from experience when our installers are on the job.

Financial considerations when buying new windows

Buying new windows for your home is a big financial investment, one that pays off in the long run. That doesn’t meant that you don’t have to worry about the short run, though, and that’s where we come in. We know that new home constructions and remodels can be stressful, so we want to make the process just a little bit easier on you. Peace of mind goes a long way and our special offers are designed to take away some of the burden to let you enjoy the process and in turn, your new windows.Whether you are looking for tax incentives, financing, or money-off-the-top for purchasing in quantity we have a selection of special offers to help make window replacement more affordable and less stressful. Read on:

Values: Seeing is Believing

We hope you enjoy our blog and that it provides you with plenty of useful information that helps you make the right decisions for your home. We also hope that you will go a step further and stop into our showroom, talk to one of our professionals, and ask questions to get the answers you need to choose the best windows and doors to fit your home and your budget. We firmly believe in the exceptional quality of our products and the skill and professionalism of our staff.We recently blogged about window styles, and we included information about our Infinity by Marvin line of products. You can see the styles and options “in action”; check it out!

Quality in Details

Martin Van Buren once said, “It’s easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn’t.” We happen to agree, which is why quality in details is so important to us. When you make a selection from our wide range of high-quality windows and doors it’s up to us to convert that selection—via installation—into an investment in your home. We don’t just want you to love our products; we want you to love the final outcome: beautifully designed and installed windows and doors that add beauty and value to your home. The quality of the things you don’t see—like shims and caulking—should enhance the quality of those that you do, the windows and doors themselves.Rot-proof and non-rot shims

Hurd Goes Green

 Great windows and doors combine form and function and in today’s world part of the “function” means energy efficiency. When you visit the Hurd Windows and Doors website you are greeted with this statement: Perfection does not fly off an assembly line. For 90 years the Hurd company has been committed to hand-crafting doors and windows for your home, the idea being that hand-crafted windows and doors not only “fit better and look better, they also perform better.” Better performance means better energy efficiency, and Hurd Windows and Doors has been going green since before the phrase “going green” meant anything. So how is Hurd accomplishing this today? The same way they have since the beginning, 90 years ago: innovation, technology, and engineering.

The Deadline Approaches!

Last week we informed you of the upcoming deadline to qualify for Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency, what qualifies, and what it means to you. This week, we’re letting you know that in order to have your windows and doors installed before the December 31 deadline, you’ll need to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. 

Superior Installation Products Mean Your Windows Will Last a Lifetime

Last week, we told you about our exceptional installers, and promised to expound on the some of the products they use to make sure your new windows will perform as promised. Everyone at Renaissance Windows & Doors prides themselves on using only the highest quality products when installing your replacement windows and doors. It is the combination of these products and our expert installers that will make your windows the best performing on the market.

Bragging Rights: Our Master Installers

 “Your installers did a very nice job, cleaned up beautifully after themselves, were on time and did all the work exactly as agreed.” At Renaissance Windows & Doors, we constantly get positive feedback about our installers. The few testimonials we’ve put on the website don’t even begin to do them justice. So, for the next five months, we are going to feature a different member of our installation staff in their own blog post. Look for our first one in a few weeks! Before you meet them individually, however, we wanted to tell you why they and our installation process are unique.

Understanding the Benefits of Single and Double-Hung Windows

When replacing your windows, at some point you will be asked whether you want single or double-hung. Your retailer will quickly be able to answer the question: what’s the difference? Single-hung windows have only one sash which opens and closes. Alternately, both the upper and lower sash of double-hung windows open and close. The question of which is best for you is a little more complex. Each has various disadvantages and benefits which must be understood before making your decision. Security: The glass is actually the main security component of your windows. The stronger the glass, the more secure your windows. That being said, locking mechanisms should be considered, as well. Since manufacturers have made window locks much more reliable over the years, single and double-hung windows are virtually  equal when it comes to security in that area. However, as double-hung windows have extra locking mechanisms, you have a greater chance of forgetting to close one, giving single-hung a slight advantage if you’re not careful.Cleaning: Double-hung windows clearly have the advantage when it comes to keeping your windows clean. Both sashes tilt inward for easy cleaning from the inside of your home. The operable sash of a single-hung window may tilt in for cleaning, but the fixed sash, obviously, will not. You will likely have to go outside and climb a ladder when you need to clean the outer areas of the fixed sash.Drafts: You should not experience unwanted drafts from properly installed replacement windows whether single or double-hung. However, the fixed panel of single-hung windows have almost no chance for air leakage over time. Though uncommon, because they have more moving parts, double-hung windows do have a greater chance of developing some air gaps.Ventilation: Again, this is where double-hung windows excel. Opening both the upper and lower sash allows for maximum air circulation; while opening just the upper sash permits ventilation without breezes disturbing your work. If you are planning on using your windows as an alternative to air conditioning, double-hung are the optimal choice. However, if you only open the windows a few times a year, single-hung windows may be sufficient.Cost: If cost is a major factor for you, single-hung windows are generally a little less expensive. They have fewer components and are easier to manufacture than double-hung windows, keeping costs down.As with every other consideration of your replacement windows, there is no right or wrong choice when it comes to single or double-hung. You’ll simply have to weigh all your options and make the decision that is right for you and your home.

Hurricane Preparedness: The Truth About Taping Your Windows

As the anniversary of Hurricane Ike fast approaches, we started thinking about all the things we need to have on hand during a storm. Our list includes the usual suspects: water, extra batteries, canned food. However, one thing no one needs is tape for the windows. If the worst should occur, taping your windows will not protect you, your family or your belongings.

Using Drapery Panels to Dress Up Your Windows

If you’ve just replaced your windows, the last thing you want is to cover their beauty with shades or mini-blinds. However, you can enhance the look of your windows with decorative rods and drapery panels.   Drapery Rods The first element you’ll want to consider are your rods. Single rods are preferable if you are hanging panels just as decoration or to block light. Double rods allow for both privacy sheers and decorative drapes. Unless you opt for tension rods which fit into the frame opening and are typically used for sheers, the rods should measure at least an inch longer than the width of your window. To make your windows appear wider, use longer rods. To make your room appear taller, hang the rod close to the ceiling. As for the style of rod, it is completely dependent on your taste. If your window frames are stained, you may prefer wooden rods stained to match. Metal rods are available in a number of finishes to complement your decor and can add sparkle or drama to a room. If you choose rods with interchangeable finials, you can easily alter the look of your room with a turn of the knob.   Drapery Panels Store bought drapery panels are typically sold in packs of two, and hang on the rod using tab-top loops, a gathered pocket, or hooks. They can be purchased in almost every color and weight of fabric. For a clean, classic look, let the hem of your panel just skim the floor. For a more opulent effect, tie draperies back from the window and allow excess fabric to puddle on the floor. Privacy sheers can be employed on their own or in conjunction with drapery panels. The sheers allow diffused light into the room without obstructing the design of your divided light window panes. For a modern look, custom make your sheers with a very light weight fabric for ⅞ of the panel and a medium to heavy weight band at the bottom in a complimentary or contrasting color. These should be hung straight with limited pleats or gathers. Pre-fabricated drapery panels are another relatively inexpensive way to alter the look of your room. You need not even modify your color palate; try a light cotton fabric for summer and an luxurious velvet in winter for a dramatic change in the feel of your room.   Decorative rods and drapery panels are the perfect choice for adding warmth and character to your room without concealing the beauty of your windows.   

Different Types of Glass

For many, glass is limited to two types: clear or colored. However, when choosing glass for your windows, the options have become far more complex. New glazing techniques have led to the invention of several types of Low-Emissivity, Low-E, glass for windows.  The different types of Low-E glass are formed by applying specially designed reflective coatings to surfaces on insulated glass. Depending on the type of glass or coating, the window protects your interior from certain elements. While manufacturers have slightly different names for the various types, the following information should serve as a good primer for energy efficient window glass.Standard Insulated Glass:Saves on energy when compared to single-pane glass. It is the lowest-cost energy efficient glass option. It is best for mild climates where heating and cooling costs are not an issue.Low-E Glass:Insulated glass with a single surface of Low-E coating to reflect heat back to its source. Heat is reflected out in the summer and indoor heat is retained in the winter. It also blocks up to 84 percent of UV rays. Those in cold climates where heating costs are a concern benefit greatly.Low-E 366 Glass:Insulated glass with a triple layer of silver rejects solar heat while maximizing light. It furnishes 95 percent protection from UV rays. It provides the maximum benefit for protecting your interior surfaces from fading and reduces energy consumption for those in extreme climates. This coating is the most likely to qualify your windows for the maximum Federal Stimulus Tax Credit.Other Options: (not all options will be available from every manufacturer)Tinting: For ultimate sun and light control, a variety of tints are available from some manufacturers to supplement the Low-E glass.Obscure glass: Like tinting, it provides light control; in addition, the opaque glazing provides privacy.Laminated glass: Single pane or insulated windows can be laminated for sound control or impact resistance. The special laminating adds strength and durability to the glass.Tempered glass: This is another option to add strength to the glass. It works in conjunction with the Low-E coatings.Whatever type of glass you choose, your energy efficient windows will not function properly if they are not properly installed. Make sure to contact a installation expert when you are ready to switch to your energy efficient windows.