Argon Gas Replacement Windows for Chicago Homeowners

Argon gas replacement windows are usually filled with gas between panes to boost energy efficiency. Some window manufacturers use Krypton gas, as it is a little heavier than Argon. Krypton, however, is more expensive than Argon. And that’s why Argon filled replacement windows have gained more in popularity than Krypton gas windows.
 

Why Argon Gas?
 

According to window experts, Argon gas is one of the single most important components in a replacement window. The gas is capable of improving a home's energy efficiency and saving you lots of money on heating and cooling costs.
 

Argon windows work best in areas that have cold weather during the winter. These windows are intended to reduce the U-Value of a window. The U-Value refers to a thermal rating, tested and certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).The U-Value is used to determine the performance of a window in cold weather. Typically, the testing rule for U-Value begins at zero degrees.
 

Argon is an odorless, colorless, harmless, and inexpensive gas that is used to increase the insulating properties of a window. More and more homeowners are opting for this type of windows as they offer better insulation than normal windows.
 

There are also triple-glazed argon-filled windows that feature two layers of insulation. It should be noted that Low-E Windows aren’t the same as Argon gas filled windows. Although they are designed using a similar concept, materials placed in between the panes are different. 
 

Benefits of Argon Gas Windows

• Minimizes heat transfer through the window
• Minimizes the chances of frost and condensation 
• Suitable for both hot and cold climate 
• Minimizes the effects of UV-rays 
• Increased R-value 
• The high cost of purchasing and installing argon windows will be recovered on very short time
• Triple glazed windows offer greater benefits than even duel pane argon filled windows 
• Unlike oxygen, argon is harmless and won’t oxidize the window material  
• With argon windows, expect your heating and cooling system to work more efficiently
• Argon gas won’t expand or contract 
• Can increase the value of your home  

If you are thinking of replacing your existing windows with new efficient replacement windows, opt for Argon windows. They come in double or triple pane glass, which is an added benefit in terms of preventing leakages and condensation.

Why Install Replacement Siding on Your Chicago Home

Buying replacement siding for your home is an excellent decision, both functionally and aesthetically. Unlike a new decorating scheme or fresh paint, new siding is something that will serve you for many years. By choosing the right material and color, your siding will add significant value to your home. If you are currently thinking of reselling your house, then it is important to consider installing new siding as it will contribute in attracting buyers. Also, if you are planning to renovate your home, siding can make your home appear more beautiful and welcoming. Here is some advice on what to consider when shopping for siding.
 

If you are thinking of replacing your existing siding, conduct a simple inspection to determine whether your existing siding needs replacement. Using appropriate tools, such as a screwdriver, push below the curved siding to determine how strong the layer beneath it is. Several signs may indicate damaged siding. If the paint is peeling, or the siding is sagging, it may be because the material is getting old. This may allow moisture to leak underneath it. This can ruin the interior walls of your house, so it is something you should check out as often as possible.
 

Mildew and mold formation on your siding walls can also be the cause of moisture problems. While mold and mildew presence may not always indicate signs of failing siding, they should be a cause for concern. Problems in siding may not be visible to the naked eye. You may need different tools or a professional to come and investigate the situation for you. The specialist will expose areas that need attention, if the damage is not big, you may only need to repair the siding. However, if the damage is significant, you will have no other option but to replace all of it.
 

When purchasing siding materials, be sure to pick the right colors. Bright colors such as yellow are good for attracting attention in the neighborhood. Sometimes your homeowner’s association or neighborhood may have their own regulations regarding color choices. Lighter shades often do not absorb light, hence they are appropriate for areas with hot weather. This way you’ll be able to save a significant amount of money on cooling costs during the summer. Wood siding can be repainted into any color. Vinyl siding may not allow for painting as it usually comes with a permanent color from the manufacturer, but it is extremely durable.
 

Material is another important factor to consider. There are many options to choose from. However, your choice will depend on your budget, preference, and what you want to get out of it. If you have a limited budgeted, you will probably want to go for vinyl. Again, if you don’t want to spend a lot of time and effort maintaining the siding, vinyl would be the right choice, as well.
 

Siding is usually the first thing people tend to notice more than anything else about your home. With a good selection and a qualified installation contractor, you can make sure that the siding of your home is firm, aesthetically appealing, and inviting.

Single Pane Windows vs Double Pane Windows

Choosing the right type of replacement windows can be a challenging endeavor due to the wide variety of windows available on the market. Besides that, you may find it challenging to choose the most appropriate window for your Chicago home. If you cannot pick the right one, you may end up spending a fortune and getting nothing in return. There are three common types of windows: single pane, double/dual pane, and triple pane windows. An older home or building is likely to have single pane windows. Newer homes are usually set up with single pane replacement windows. So why do most homeowners prefer dual pane windows over their single pane counterparts?
 

Single Pane Windows
 

The reason is that single pane windows are heavy consumers of energy. They suck energy ceaselessly. They consist of a single glass sheet that is fitted on a window’s frame. Since glass is a good conductor of heat, heat transfer will happen when there is a difference between the inside and the outside temperature. In extremely cold areas, where heating of a home becomes a basic necessity – there can be a lot of heat loss through single-pane glass windows. This often affects the insulation of a home and can add to the high monthly utility bills.
 

In terms of cost, single-pane glasses are less expensive than double pane windows. Dual pane windows are more expensive than single-pane windows. If you’re planning to have all the windows in your home replaced with dual pane glass, then it can turn out to be a significant investment. However, if you look at the long-term benefits of installing dual pane windows, you can discover that they are your best option because they help to minimize your heating costs. Moreover, you will enjoy better home insulation. 
 

Double Pane Windows
 

Double pane windows save money, energy, and can contribute to the improvement of your home’s value. According to the department of energy, energy loss through inefficient windows accounts for almost 25% of the annual heating & cooling bills. Fortunately, there are solutions available that can help you as a Chicago area homeowner to dramatically reduce that significant heat loss through windows.
 

Double pane replacement windows offer improved insulation for your home. Not only do they prevent loss of heat, but they also insulate your house against annoying outside noise.
 

Another good thing about double pane windows is that they are available in a wide variety of colors, finishes, shapes, designs and styles. You can choose to buy aluminum, vinyl, or wood window frames depending on your preferences and budget. Now that you have an idea about the difference between single pane windows and double pane windows, make an informed choice so you can save your hard earned money.

Everything You Need to Know About Gutter Systems

Gutter systems are an important part of any home. Most homes in the Chicago area have rain gutter systems. They are designed to control the flow of rainwater by channeling it away from the home. Gutters are meant to protect the home’s fascia, foundation, roof, and siding from water damage. Moreover, they control landscape erosion and prevent basement flooding. They are very essential for any home.
 

Gutter systems come in two main shapes: the half round style and K-Style (an open rectangle).  Half round gutters have a curdled top surface edge. Half round gutters are often fitted with a peg support across the top. There is also a threaded rod that curves to the roof’s angle and is attached in place beneath the shingles. K-Style gutters have flat surfaces and are usually fixed into the fascia board. 
 

Gutters are available in a variety of styles, designs, finishes and colors. They are made of a wide range of materials, such as lead-coated, vinyl, galvanized aluminum, galvanized steel, wood, aluminum, copper, and painted steel. Gutter systems can be purchased in different thicknesses to provide for varying construction needs.
 

It is important to keep your gutter system in good shape and free from debris, such as leaves that interfere with the removal of excess melted snow and rainwater. Tree limbs, snow, ice, squirrels and other factors can pull your gutters away from your house’s fascia board or even damage them completely. Accumulation of debris can cause water to leak between the siding layers or into the attic of your home.
 

The perfect time to inspect your gutters for issues is during summer or spring. You can spray water on the roof of your house and then watch for signs of leaks and other issues. Alternatively, wait for a heavy rainfall and then go outside to see whether the water is flowing correctly or not. 
 

To get the most out of your gutters, ensure that they are properly maintained. Make sure that there are no tree limbs hanging over your roof. Some trees tend to shed their leaves all year long, so clean the roof with an air blower or soft broom. Repair the gutters whenever they are loose so that all the downspouts are channeled into the drainage system. Everyone needs a gutter system to help reduce moisture and water damage to their valuable home. 

Gutters are crucial, especially in areas with wetter climates. So make sure you have properly functioning gutters.

Efficient Replacement Windows in Chicago

Windows are one of your home’s most appealing features. Windows provide ventilation, daylight, views of your property, and much more. Regrettably, they can also become the source of your increasing heating and cooling costs. If you have older windows installed in your home, your air conditioning system must work much harder to cool the house during the summer. Likewise, it must work harder to heat the home during the winter season.
 

If you suspect that your old single pane windows are to blame for increasing utility bills, consider replacing them with high efficiency windows. Double pane glass windows, for example, come with low-E and high performance glass. They have a special insulation material to protect your home against extreme heat and cold. Also, this insulation can reduce outdoor noise pollution.
 

Installing new replacement windows can undeniably make your house more attractive, comfortable, and welcoming. And as said before, you will enjoy reduced monthly utility bills. Energy efficient windows minimize a home’s heating costs by a huge percentage. Although replacing your old, inefficient windows with new ones is quite a huge investment, it’s still worth doing since the windows will practically pay for themselves over time. However, before thinking of installing new windows, it is important to make sure your home has better insulation. Ensure that all structural issues such as leaky roofing and damaged gutters are repaired. This is the only way you can maximize the benefits of your newly installed windows.
 

It’s worth bearing in mind that when installing new windows, it’s important to do it according to the recommendations given by the manufacturer. Proper installation will ensure you get the best out of your investment.

Best Windows for Your Chicago Home: Wood, Vinyl or Aluminum

There are three different types of window materials available – vinyl, wood, and aluminum. When you are ready to replace your old, drafty, inefficient windows, you may need to choose one of these options. Keep reading and discover the pros and cons of each material.
 

Benefits of Vinyl Windows
 

There are many reasons why vinyl is the most preferred replacement window option. Vinyl replacement windows are durable, aesthetically appealing, affordable and almost maintenance free. Vinyl is also known for its amazing insulating properties because it is a poor conductor of heat. For this reason, it stops heat from coming inside the house during the summer months. In the same way, it prevents cold air from coming inside during the winter months. However, not all vinyl windows are the same. You get what you pay for, goes the old saying.
 

People started using vinyl in the early 1970s, and became widespread not only because they are less expensive but also because they require very little or no maintenance. Moreover, the material is durable and can last for many years.
 

Vinyl Disadvantages
 

As with any manufactured product, vinyl has its own downsides. The material cannot be painted, making it less appealingly to the eye. This means you aren't able to paint them a special color to match with your window shutters, gutters, etc.
 

Aluminum Advantages
 

Aluminum windows are extremely light, yet very strong and durable. They are long lasting and require little maintenance, especially with anodized or factory-baked finishes. If you wish to install windows with unique shapes, you might want to consider aluminum since the metal can easily be manipulated into virtually any shape.
 

Aluminum windows are great for normal climates. In other words, they can be a perfect option in areas where heat or cold is not a major issue. Aluminum windows is mostly used in large commercial buildings as they are less expensive than wood and vinyl.
 

Disadvantages of Aluminum
 

The major problem with aluminum is the fact that it is a good conductor of heat. Therefore, aluminum replacement windows may not be a good option in extremely hot climates. Additionally, aluminum may eventually allow condensation to form between the panes.
 

Advantages of Wood Windows
 

Many homes, especially traditional older homes, are set up with wood windows. True wood has a feel and look that cannot compare to either aluminum and vinyl. Wood is aesthetically pleasing, wood is tough; wood is well insulated. In fact, some vinyl and aluminum window frames try to mimic wood's appearance. Wood windows are environmentally-friendly and can be painted with virtually any color.
 

Disadvantages of Wood Windows
 

One of the major reasons why most homeowners settle for vinyl and aluminum options is the cost. Wood windows are quite expensive. The need for regular maintenance is another good reason most people don’t consider wood. Wood – if left unmaintained – can warp, rot, and start to look ugly. Also, wood is attractive to termites.

Why Should You Choose Vinyl Siding for Your Chicago Home?

Siding can help to maintain the structural integrity of your home, as well as add significant curb appeal. With proper siding, you can protect the foundation of your home and walls against water damage. Also, with siding, pests such as termites would have a hard time getting their way through cracks in the wall in order to invade your home. Perfect siding can help to prevent these issues, and keep your home strong and inviting.
 

Why Vinyl Siding?
 

Vinyl siding is probably the most popular siding option available. Vinyl has many benefits, and that’s why more and more homeowners are considering it when thinking of getting replacement siding their homes. To begin with, vinyl siding is cheaper than other siding materials. But the cost of vinyl siding is determined by several factors, such as size of the home, manufacturer of the material, warranty, quantity, and the installer. Another factor affecting the price of vinyl siding is the cost of installation. And speaking of installation, it’s a bit easier to install vinyl siding than installing other types of siding like wood or aluminum. Vinyl is also energy efficient and can save homeowners a great deal of money on utility bills.

Durability
 

Vinyl is made of PVC or polyvinyl chloride resins and acrylic resins to improve flexibility. Vinyl siding is very durable, which means you can keep it for decades without needing to spend more money to re-side your house over again. Vinyl contains Titanium dioxide to repel UV-rays from the sun, protecting the siding against degradation and fading. Moreover, it can endure extreme weather conditions without causing any serious structural damage to your home.
 

Appearance
 

Vinyl siding comes in a variety of colors and grains to choose from. Generally, vinyl siding comes with a permanent color that won’t scratch or fade. The color stays intact for many years and won’t show any signs of imperfections. This type of siding can improve the overall appearance of your home.
 

Maintenance
 

Unlike wood and aluminum siding which call for a lot of maintenance, vinyl is almost maintenance free. Because the siding never fades, there is absolutely no need to paint it. The only small maintenance you will give your vinyl siding is a thorough wash with a pressure washer at least once a year. Vinyl siding can maintain its new look for a long period of time.
 

 

What are the Benefits of Argon Gas Replacement Windows?

When it comes to purchasing replacement windows, one of the main concerns for most homeowners, besides the style and the design selected, is how efficient the windows are. It is obvious that most people purchase replacement windows for energy saving purposes. Argon gas is used in modern replacement windows. Argon provides energy-efficiency, hence reducing heating and cooling bills.
 

Argon is one of the noble gases that make an important part of energy efficient windows. Argon gas is about 30% heavier than air and transfers approximately 48% less heat than air. For this reason, it is used to make a barrier to prevent heat transfer. Noise, as well as heat energy, has a difficult time moving through Argon.
 

Argon gas makes about 1.28% of the air we breathe, and is the third most common gas in the atmosphere. It is inflammable and nonreactive. Argon is odorless, colorless and absolutely nontoxic as a liquid, solid, or gas. It is totally harmless. Even if the window breaks, there is no need to panic at all since the gas is completely safe.
 

Xenon and krypton are also noble gases, but they are slightly heavier than argon. Although Krypton is also used in windows, it is quite expensive to produce. Thus, when it comes to replacement windows, Argon is the most preferred inert gas. The measure of thermal resistance or incremental R-Value that shows the level of energy efficiency may improve the performance of your windows. Adding an Argon gas to the panes of the window may help top boost energy efficiency as it minimizes solar heat gain.
 

While replacement windows filled with argon gas are expensive, the extra costs for these windows are usually offset by their long term benefits. In other words, the energy savings you will enjoy in the future will eventually cover the huge money used to purchase these windows. The amount you will save on heating costs over the course of their lifetime is more than worth the initial cost.

Unlike other systems of measurements such as U-value and R-value, windows with argon gas are capable of limiting leakages. For example, during the summer, windows featuring argon will keep the air inside the house cool. In the winter seasons, these windows will keep warm air inside the home saving on cooling bills.

Single, Double, or Triple Pane Windows for Chicago Homeowners

Since the greater part of the window is made of glass, choosing the right window that can dramatically improve your energy efficiency at home is paramount. There are three main types of replacement windows namely: single, double and triple pane windows. Double and triple pane windows are made with layers of glass. The layers are usually filled with gas, such as krypton or argon to improve insulation.
 

Single Pane Windows
 

As the name suggest, a single pane window has only one glass pane that is attached on the window’s frame. Glass is a good conductor of heat and tends to allow the transfer of it. During winter seasons, when heating your home becomes a necessity, there can be substantial heat loss through single-pane glass windows. However, single pane glasses are less expensive than their double and triple pane counterparts.
 

Double Pane Windows
 

If you are thinking of ways to save money on heating and cooling costs, one of the available solutions is replacing all single pane windows with double pane windows. As already mentioned, this is a significant investment, but you will benefit from reduced energy bills, increased safety, a more comfortable house, and an increased value of your property.
 

As the name denotes, double-pane windows have two panes of glass in every single window. There is a small space between the panes of glass designed to increase insulation. Generally, an inert gas such as argon or krypton is filled to the space left between the panes of glass to further boost the insulation. As a matter of fact, double pane window could be as much as 50% more energy efficient than its single-pane counterpart.
 

Triple Pane Windows
 

Triple pane windows are said to be 80 to 90 percent more energy efficient than single-pane windows. If you live an extremely cold climate, opting for a triple pane window rather than double pane windows is a prudent decision. In terms of cost, however, triple pane windows are more expensive than single and double pane windows. Even with their cost, they will provide you with maximum comfort and an energy efficient home.
 

With three layers of glass, triple pane windows prevent heat loss or gain through the window. The panes also stop UV-rays from penetrating through the glass to protect your carpet, curtains and furniture from fading.

Building a Three or Four Season Sunroom in Chicago

A sunroom is a small addition to your home that allows you to enjoy the outdoors without actually being outside. This addition offers you the ability to enjoy nature in the comfort of your home. Since they have large glass windows, sunrooms are loved by many homeowners for the amount of daylight they allow in. With a sunroom installed in your home, you can enjoy the morning sunlight without being exposed to the harmful elements of the outdoors, such as insects, UV-rays, winds, pests and pollen.

 

The two most popular types of sunrooms include a 4-season sunroom and 3-season sunroom. The 4 season rooms are basically designed to cater for all seasons. You can use them all year round. Four season sunrooms are usually constructed with energy efficient glass, have efficient HVAC systems and higher quality insulation.
 

Because a three season sunroom lacks many important features, it’s obvious that it can get extremely hot during the summer seasons or very cold during the winter months. That’s why many homeowners prefer four season sunrooms over three seasons ones.
 

The large windows or glass walls that these sunrooms allow for a sufficient amount of daylight to enter inside. This helps to make the room bright and attractive. As said before, the large transparent windows of sunrooms also allow you to enjoy the surrounding landscape and other things on your property.
 

Unlike bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, which have their own specific roles within the home, sunrooms are quite versatile. While some homeowners may use their sunrooms as an entertainment room for hosting guests, others may use them as a place for reading. Others may use them as a dining room, and still yet, others may use them as a living room.
 

Four season and three season sunrooms are also good when it comes to energy efficiency. However, you will need to invest in 4 season sunroom if you want to save significant money on heating and cooling costs.
 

While the choice of four seasons or three season room is based on your preference, taste, and budget, choosing the right type is of utmost importance. Both are great when it comes to enjoying the surrounding scenery. You can enjoy the morning sun without having to worry about heat, UV-rays, mosquitoes, and other harmful factors.

Learn the Value of Energy Efficient Replacement Windows in Chicago

Over the last decades, huge steps in the construction industry have been made, and windows have not been left out. At the moment, double, triple and quadruple pane replacement windows are available. These windows have been designed to improve insulation in order to reduce heat transfer.

Energy efficient windows save you money on heating and cooling costs every single month. By replacing your old, drafty windows, your monthly utility bill will reduce substantially. Although replacing old windows with energy efficient windows is quite costly, the decision to do so is worth the investment.
 

The amount of money you will save on replacement windows depends on several factors. The first thing you will want to consider is the type of window you want. Some windows come with soft coatings while others come with hard coatings. There are single pane, double pane, triple pane and even quadruple pane windows. Some have a gas filling, while some do not. Some replacement windows are filled with argon gas whereas some are filled with krypton. All of these factors will need to be considered when purchasing a replacement window.
 

Window energy efficiency is represented by a U-factor which denotes the rate of heat loss and heat gain. An R-Value is the opposite of a U-factor, for instance, an R-Value of 4 equals a U-factor of 0.25.The lower the U-factor, the more efficient the window is. Since window transfer heat by different ways such as radiation, U-Factor is more readable than R-Value, which denotes heat resistance.
 

A window U-factor represents the whole window system. It measures its performance in terms of its ability to prevent heat transfer. It includes the frame material, the glass insulating properties and the leakiness of the window. What it doesn’t indicate is how well a window is installed. Good installation can also contribute in significant energy savings while poor installation can lead a substantial loss of energy.
 

It should be noted that replacing older windows with high efficiency ones is an expensive project. You may not be able to maximize energy efficient windows if your home isn’t energy efficient. For example, if your attic and basement lack proper insulation, you won’t be able to save much energy with these replacement windows. So, if you want to benefit from your investment, make sure the rest of your home is energy efficient as well. Investing in efficiency windows will make sure you earn your money back – sooner or later you’ll realize you didn’t waste your money.

Why You Should Opt for Energy Efficient Windows in Chicago

What are energy efficient windows and why are they so popular? Let us explain! In brief, an energy efficient window is a window that has met or exceeded Energy Star ratings. In other words, an efficient window is an Energy Star rated replacement window and usually has an inert gas between its panes.
 

Energy efficient products, such as refrigerators, furnaces, and water heaters have become the new norm for individuals that are modernizing their homes. Every homeowner is trying everything possible to save money on electricity bills.
 

So, back to energy efficient windows, this means low thermal emissivity, improved exterior and interior home appearance, and lower monthly utility bills. This says how energy efficient windows are economical due to their ability to reflect, absorb and emit radiant energy. This is one of the main reasons why more and more homeowners are looking for these windows.
 

Your furniture, carpets, photographs and other items in your house need protection from direct sunlight. Harmful UV-rays from sunlight can cause fading to these items. The only effective way to stop these rays is to install a window that has the ability to prevent UV-Rays from getting inside, while at the same time increasing heating and cooling system efficiency. In fact, according to Energy Star, efficient windows can block the damaging rays by about 75%.
 

Condensation is another serious challenge many homeowners are dealing with. Energy efficient replacement windows are designed to address this problem. Typically, water condenses and at times even freezes on the windows during the chilly winter months, which may cause the development of mold.
 

Comfort in your home: If your home has older windows, heat loss, air leakage and drafts all contribute to your family's discomfort. For this reason, you will expect your heating and cooling systems to overcome this distress, which ends up meaning you have to deal with high energy costs. Nevertheless, Energy Star rated windows have greater insulation making the house feel cozier and warmer, or cooler than never before. Since you are likely to spend most of your time in the home, it goes without saying that you will want the place to be as inviting as possible. Moreover, these windows are able to block unwanted outside noise from entering the house. Many of them are built with sound insulation to ensure the home remains as quiet as possible. So, make your home comfortable and safe with energy efficient windows.
 

Another benefit of energy efficient windows is that it allows a clear view of the outdoors and also permits light to brighten your house. Additionally, when these windows are constructed with high quality materials, they add curb appeal and value to your property. 

Need Replacement Windows in Chicago? Think About Getting Energy Efficient Ones

There are many reasons to invest in new replacement windows for your home or commercial property. Perhaps you have been dealing with drafts or leaks that make your house an uncomfortable place to stay. Sometimes the fading of your furniture or carpet and high energy bills are caused by inefficient windows. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it’s the right time to look for energy efficient replacement windows—your best bet for affordable, safe, strong, and energy conscious windows.
 

According to experts, windows contribute about 10% to 25% to your monthly utility bill. If your home has old single-pane windows, it’s time to have them replaced with double or triple-pane windows that will add a new look and feel to your home and reduce your utility bills. Moreover, new windows can add to the safety of your property as older types can easily be broken into by robbers and burglars. With too many replacement windows available on the market, it’s vitally important to learn a few tips on choosing the best windows for your house. Here are some of them:
 

Material: Vinyl, wood, and aluminum are the most popular choices of materials. Vinyl is inexpensive, looks superb for a long period of time, can adapt to temperature and humidity changes, has great insulating properties and is virtually maintenance-free. Wood is quite poor when it comes to extreme climates and is relatively expensive. Despite that, many people still prefer the stunning appearance of wood windows over vinyl ones. Aluminum is incredibly durable and strong.
 

Design: The design of the replacement window you think of purchasing have to match up with the design of your house. There are plenty of colors available, but selecting the color that matches with the décor of your house is paramount.
 

Energy Star rating: This label is meant to tell you that the product has been tested and is energy efficient. Hence, before buying any window claiming to be energy efficient, make sure it is rated by Energy Star. This way you will save money on heating and cooling costs. Although new replacement windows are quite expensive, their long term benefits will, at the end of the day, offset your purchase.
 

National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC): Ensure that you understand what this means. In addition to Energy Star rating, NFRC is another label issued by an independent agency mandated with the task of comparing the energy performance of windows, skylights, and so forth. U-Factor is one of the essential ratings that measures the amount of heat gain and heat loss of a window.
 

Pricing: Wood is more expensive than vinyl. And it’s worth bearing in mind that once you’ve installed wood replacement windows, you will still need to spend extra money on maintenance. They often need to be painted and stained.
 

There are many factors to be considered when purchasing a replacement window. Replacing your older, inefficient windows with new ones makes lots of sense. You get a comfortable, secure, and beautiful home.
 

Compare Vinyl, Wood, and Aluminum Replacement Windows for Your Chicago Home

How does vinyl vs. wood vs. aluminum replacement windows compare? To begin with, let’s admit that comparing windows is a little tricky as different people have different preferences on which windows suits their needs. However, there are those who want to replace their old windows, but are not sure which replacement window to choose. In this post, we will try to compare the three popular window materials: aluminum, vinyl and wood. After that, you’ll be able to see which material is the best choice for your home.
 

Vinyl
 

Vinyl windows are arguably the most popular replacement windows available on the market. This is due to its low price, high performance, and availability. Vinyl windows beat their aluminum counterparts when it comes to energy efficiency. Vinyl is almost scratch-free, while aluminum is subject to scratches and dents. Maintenance is one of the major reasons many homeowners are selecting vinyl windows over wood and aluminum. While wood replacement windows would need to be stained or painted on a regular basis, vinyl windows are nearly maintenance free. They only need to be cleaned with water and soap once in a while. Vinyl windows do not require sealing or painting. The limited colors of vinyl and the fact that you cannot repaint it to your preferred color is, perhaps, the major disadvantage of these windows.
 

Wood
 

For centuries, wood has been a popular window option and the most used material for windows. Homeowners liked it due to the fact that it could be stained to maintain the wood appearance or painted in a different color to match the rest of the home. Wood is also a good insulator, easy to work with and fairly strong. Nevertheless, there are a few major issues with wood windows that have caused many homeowners and constructors to shift their attention to vinyl and aluminum. As you already know, wood requires a lot of maintenance such as painting, staining, sanding, etc. Also, wood frames are subject to decay, which can make them not to last for long. Again, vinyl replacement windows prove to be the best choice when it comes to durability and maintenance.
 

Aluminum
 

There are many reasons why aluminum windows are gaining in popularity day by day. First and foremost, aluminum is a very strong metal and also durable. When compared to vinyl replacement windows, aluminum is three to five times stronger. It is less expensive than its wood counterpart and is also inexpensive to install. Unlike vinyl windows, aluminum can be repainted into different attractive colors. Moreover, it can be shaped into any style of window of your choice. Unfortunately, there are a few significant downsides to aluminum replacement windows. Number one, aluminum is not known for being a great insulator. That's why aluminum windows prove to be unpopular choice when it comes to energy efficiency. It is not always recommended in areas that experience extreme climates. 

Again, unlike wood and vinyl, which won’t rust, dent or crack, aluminum is prone to denting and rusting. It should be noted that different people have different tastes and preferences. Thus, the ultimate decision is in your hands. Evaluate your budget, needs, and preference, and then you can decide whether to pick vinyl, wood, or aluminum replacement windows for your home.

Benefits of Vinyl Siding for Your Chicago Home

The right siding can enhance the look and durability of your entire home. Remodeling your home's exterior is never an easy task. Many people wonder about what type of siding material would be the best to install on their properties. In a few words, siding can be defined as a wall covering the exterior of your home to prevent or reduce effects of weather and outdoor elements. There are a wide variety of siding options available to choose from, which give many homeowners a difficult time to make the final decision. Keep reading and discover why vinyl siding is one of the best choices.
 

Vinyl siding provides a practical solution. Vinyl siding is gaining in popularity day by day. Builders started to use it in the 1950s after it was discovered that vinyl was better than aluminum. Today, vinyl siding is considered the most popular due to its vast benefits. For example, vinyl is maintenance-free, strong and inexpensive when compared to aluminum and other siding materials. Realtors, builders and investors all agree that vinyl siding is the best choice. Here are reasons to choose vinyl siding for your home.
 

1. Durability: Vinyl is known to be a very durable material. That’s why many homeowners prefer vinyl replacement windows over other frame materials. But like any other product on the market, you get what you pay for. Pay some extra cash for higher quality siding that is strong and will last for many years. Additionally, unlike aluminum and other siding options that are prone to fade, vinyl won’t fade or rot.
 

2. Easy to install: You don’t need to spend a fortune to hire a professional to install the siding.
 

3. Ease of maintenance: Vinyl materials are nearly maintenance free. Vinyl siding never requires any expensive maintenance like painting and sealing. It will only need to be washed with soap and water once in awhile. It is recommended to use a soft rag when washing it.
 

4. Energy saving: One of the greatest benefits to installing vinyl siding is its ability to save energy. Vinyl is a good insulator that can lower your heating and cooling bills. So, when shopping for vinyl siding, be sure to choose one with a higher R-Value.
 

5. Beautiful appearance: When it comes to attractiveness, vinyl is the most attractive siding material. It comes in a wide variety of colors that can add curb appeal to your home. 

Benefits of Installing a Sunroom in Chicago

Sunrooms, also known as conservatories, patio enclosures, and garden rooms are additions that can enhance your Chicago home. When you install a sunroom to your existing house, it’s like adding an extra room to relax in to relieve stress. These rooms make a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, read your morning newspaper, and eat breakfast.
 

For years, sunrooms have been visually pleasing and useful in residential homes, commercial properties, and industrial complexes. The benefits of installing sunrooms in your home are vast. In addition to benefits already mentioned above, here are some other advantages of sunrooms.

Extra Living Space
 

Another major advantage of a sunroom is the fact that it offers extra living space for your house. Unlike a screened porch or deck which can only be used some during specific times of the year, you can use your sunroom throughout the year. A sunroom can serve as a playroom, dining room, reading room, or family room. It is also the best place to spend time with your guests since it offers beautiful and expansive views of the outside world.
 

Outdoor View
 

A sunroom provides a great place to enjoy the weather outside, watch birds singing, or just to look at the beautiful flowers in your garden. The space can provide a complete view of your backyard without having to deal with harsh outdoor elements, such as allergens and pesky bugs. Even UV-Rays and chilly weather isn’t an issue. Moreover, your kids can enjoy plenty of sunlight while playing in the sunroom. Thus, they won’t have to go outside to play in bad weather.
 

Increase the Value of Your Home
 

Real estate properties with conservatories have been proven to sell for more money and faster than homes without sunrooms. Buyers are always attracted to properties with a sunroom addition. However, in order for your home to add real value, the sunroom must include features like heating and cooling systems. And since sunrooms are made of glass, buyers would want to know which type of glass was used to make the addition. Single-pane glass windows will most likely turn off buyers as they lack insulation. A good sunroom addition will ensure the place is warmed in the winter and cooled in the summer.