Tips For Cleaning Windows in the Winter

Chances are this last snowfall left your house and property a mess. If your windows need a little bit of love, you don't have to wait until spring to get them clean. Below we'll discuss four cold weather window washing tips.

1. Use Alcohol

Mix 3 tablespoons of alcohol in a vinegar and water solution to prevent freezing. Just make sure you use cold water, otherwise the alcohol may evaporate too quickly.

2. Mix With Salt

Combine 1/8 cup of salt with water in a spray bottle and mix until it's dissolved. It will not only get your windows clean, but according to Life Hacker, it will also keep them frost-free!

3. Try Antifreeze Windshield Washing Fluid

Windshields need to be clean year-round, so windshield washing fluid is usually designed to withstand below-freezing temperatures. Try pouring some into a spray bottle and spraying down your home's windows. Use a squeegee to wipe them clean.

Do you have any other tips for wintertime window washing? We’d love to hear your feedback! Sound off on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter! And visit Superior Windowland on the web to learn more about our products and services.

How to Save on Energy Costs with Spray Foam Insulation

If you're looking for ways to make your home more energy efficient, it's time to consider spray foam insulation. Superior Windowland's expert technicians have done extensive research on the insulation industry, and we found that spray foam is the wave of the future.

Spray foam insulation can help you save up to 40 percent on utilities.  Here's how to save on energy costs with spray foam insulation:

1. Insulate your garage ceiling

This area of your home lets in cold air, loud noises, and even harmful fumes. Superior Windowland can easily add spray foam insulation to your garage ceiling! After all, we are a leader in the spray foam insulation.

2. Insulate your rim joists

The rim joists are located where your house sits on its foundation. This one-inch space can leak cold air and moisture. Allow us to create an air-tight seal with spray foam insulation.

3. Insulate your attic floor

Too many attics are not air-tight. A leaky attic could be costing you thousands of dollars.With FOAM-LOK™ insulation from Superior Windowland, you can save that money instead of wasting it.

These savings are the result of a primary feature of spray foam, in that it does not sag, settle, or shrink over time. Spray foam insulation is spray applied to fill cavities of any shape providing a continuous air barrier—and it stays in place.

Give EnviroGreen a call at (203) 948-7770 to learn more about how to save on energy costs with spray foam insulation. Let us take a look at your project to see how we can most effectively and efficiently increase your home or business' envelope!

Get more tips by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.

How to Care for Your Siding in the Winter

It's important to maintain your home's siding year-round. But it's been a cold, snowy winter here in the Northeast, and you're probably not thrilled by the idea of going outdoors to clean your house's exterior.

However, these harsh weather conditions are exactly what makes cleaning so important. Let's discuss how to care for your siding in the winter:

1. Clean vinyl siding with vinegar and water

Combine one part vinegar with three parts water for an effective siding cleaning solution. Use a long, bristled brush to scrub the siding. Expert tip: Start from the bottom and work your way up to avoid streaks.

2. Use a power washer

If you'd rather get the job done quickly (and who wouldn't?), then rent a power washer. However, before you start spraying, refer to your manufacturer's manual for recommended pressure strength. Otherwise, you could damage your siding.

3. Check for mold

Because temperatures fluctuate throughout the winter, snow and ice tend to melt and refreeze. This creates an ideal condition for mold growth. If you notice mold growing in, around or underneath your siding, give Superior Windowland a call and ask to speak with one of our skilled technicians.

To get in touch, dial  (203) 948-7770 or visit us on the web! You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.

Pros and Cons of Updating Old Windows

If you own an old or historic home, then you know all too well that it's both a blessing and a curse. You've fallen in love with its personality and features, but have trouble with maintenance and home improvement projects. Deciding whether or not to replace your home's windows is especially challenging. That's why we at Superior Windowland have outlined the pros and cons of updating old windows:

Pros

One of the biggest reasons owners of old homes choose to update their windows is for energy savings. We've come a long way in terms of window technology, and it shows. Superior Windowland offers energy-efficient products that will help keep your home comfortable year-round.

Updating a historic home's windows will also help keep it cleaner. You can expect less dust, dirt and pollen to enter through the cracks. This is especially important for allergy sufferers.

If you choose to upgrade to Energy Star windows, you can also receive deductions on your tax return. Speak with a Superior Windowland expert to ensure you choose new windows that qualify.

Cons

If you're considering replacing your old home's windows, your number one priority is likely maintaining a style. This can be difficult with modern windows. However, you can rest assured that there is not a project we have not seen or cannot figure out. Superior Windowland will fit your needs and budget!

At the end of the day, the pros of updating your old windows outweigh the cons. If you're very concerned about altering the look of your house, turn to Superior Windowland. We can help you select the perfect type of windows for the job. Dial (203) 948-7770 to get in touch, and don't forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for more tips.

How to Repurpose Old Windows as Home Decor

If you've recently replaced your home's windows, you may be wondering what to do with your old ones. Don't just throw them out. Put on your DIY hat and upcycle them instead! Let's discuss how to repurpose old windows as home decor:

1. Picture frames

Whether your old windows are single-pane or multi-pane, they can be reused as picture frames! According to Bob Vila, "A window’s strong frame is designed to keep heavy glass in place, it works equally well to help you display family photos, art, or little bits and baubles." Here's one great example, courtesy of Talia Christine.

Photo: Talia Christine

2. Cork boards

Need a new way to display memos and notes? Transform your old windows into awesome cork boards! Blogger Mom 4 Real offers step by step directions here. What better way to be more organized and be more crafty?

Photo: Mom 4 Real

3. Room dividers

If you're looking for a beautiful way to divide a room without losing natural light, this one's for you. Here, hung windows are used to separate a space at Le Créme Spa in San Francisco. You can easily create the same look for your home! Thanks to POPSUGAR for sharing this tip and photo.

Photo: POPSUGAR

Instead of sending your old windows to a landfill, repurpose them as home decor. It's simple and affordable! Don't forget to like Superior Windowland on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips.

5 DIY Valentine's Day Window Decorations

Valentine's Day is this Saturday! It's not too late to do a little decorating, and your windows make the perfect display case for cupid-themed decor. Below we take a look at five DIY (do it yourself) Valentine's Day window decorations:

1. Hanging paper hearts

Add a little love to your windows with these delightful hanging paper hearts.  All you need is construction paper, scissors, ribbon and a stapler! Instructions available over at My Little Gems.

2. Yarn hearts

These yarn hearts can be displayed similarly to the paper hearts we discussed above. They make great window decorations because the yarn creates interesting-to-look-at patterns. Homedit also recommends handing them out as Valentines for your friends!

3. Valentine's Day wreath

The Thriftress recommends hanging this decoration on a door, but it would look great in a window too. We love it because it's made from -- wait for it -- paper towel tubes! Save up just two rolls to make this fun piece.

4. Curly Valentine's Day garland

Who says garland's only appropriate for Christmas? Check out how Apartment Therapy made it 100 percent relevant for Valentine's Day. Click the link for directions.


5. Love tree

Have an empty bay window just begging to be decorated? Makezine's got you covered. Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to create heart ornaments for indoor plants and trees.

What other DIY Valentine's Day window decorations have you made? Share your ideas with Superior Windowland on Facebook, Twitter and Google+! And if you're getting ready to update your home's windows, give us a call at  (203) 948-7770.

3 Hardwood Flooring Trends for 2015

We're nearly a full month into 2015. Have you thought about which designs and styles will be popular this year? It's certainly been on our minds here at Superior Windowland. Below, we take a look at three hardwood flooring trends for 2015.

1. Reclaimed wood

The beautiful thing about reclaimed hardwood floors is that they're hand-crafted, piece by piece. This type of flooring has become more and more popular, not just because it's beautiful, but also because it's sustainable. Whether reclaimed from barns of rural structures, it's guaranteed to look stunning. Definitely keep an eye out for an increase in this type of flooring in 2015.

2. Grey colors

According to the National Hardware Show, grey is at the top of design trends for floors. This will only continue into 2015. Grey hardwood flooring might sound limiting, but color selections vary "from soft neutrals to bolder, more contemporary looks."

3. Luxury vinyl

OK, maybe we're cheating a bit here. But today's luxury vinyl flooring is a far cry from the peel-and-stick material that used to be popular in homes. Today, luxury vinyl flooring is designed to look just like the real thing for a fraction of the price. Learn more about luxury vinyl options in this HGTV slideshow.

What other hardwood flooring trends do you think will be big in 2015? Share your thoughts with Superior Windowland on Facebook, Twitter and Google+! Don't forget to check us out on the web to learn about our hardwood flooring options.

Why You Don't Have to Replace All of Your Windows at the Same Time

If some of your home's windows are on their way out, you may be tempted to bite the bullet and replace them all at once. However, it's important to balance the appearance of your house with your budget. If you simply can't afford to replace every window in your home, don't fret. Here's why you don't have to replace all of your windows at the same time:

1. It's a big investment

Quite frankly, the first reason you don't have to change every window at once is because it's going to cost a lot of money. Anyone who doesn't understand that is just crazy! A good window designer and installer will guide you through the process and break it down into manageable steps.

2. You can replace the windows on one side/level

You can always replace the windows of just one side or level of your home. In fact, according to Family Handyman, "Often the windows on one side of a house deteriorate much faster than the others." Doing so will save you some money, but also maintain a degree of consistency. 

3. We'll provide designs that maintain your home's architectural integrity 

Just because you can't keep your windows exactly uniform, doesn't mean it can't still look good. Superior Windowland can turn this problem into a solution. We love adding a touch of style by replacing original windows with newer, fresher ones.

As you can see, you really don't have to replace all of your windows at the same time. Whether you're saving up or don't feel comfortable making such a big purchase, we get it. Contact Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770 to learn more. Plus, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

How to Prevent Woodpeckers from Damaging Siding

Woodpeckers use their beaks to hammer into trees for a variety of reasons, from attracting mates to searching for food. Unfortunately for some homeowners, certain types of siding look a whole lot like trees. According to Colorado State University, "Woodpeckers cause property damage by drilling holes in wood and synthetic stucco siding and eaves, and are an annoyance when hammering or 'drumming' on houses." Here's how to prevent woodpeckers from damaging your siding:

Set up visual repellents. For example, attaching a 7.5-inch makeup mirror (with the enlarging lens facing out) will scare woodpeckers. Alternatively, you could set up a hawk silhouette mobile, which will frighten woodpeckers. Get step-by-step directions here.

Make loud noises. You'll have to experiment to determine what works best, but some woodpeckers are scared away by something as simple as yelling. You can also try banging on pots and pans or playing with toy cap guns.

Apply sticky bird repellents. These create tacky footing, which discourages some woodpeckers from landing. However, proceed with caution: Some repellents may stain wood when temperatures rise. It's recommended that you test it on an inconspicuous area beforehand.

For more ways to prevent woodpeckers from damaging siding, read this thorough guide from the Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management.

If your siding is damaged beyond repair, dial (203) 948-7770 to get in touch with a Superior Windowland technician. We'll help you find the right siding for your style and budget. You can rely on the siding of your choice to be installed in a superior manor with your expectations exceeded!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

3 Ways We Can Make Over Your Home in the New Year

It's 2015, but by looking at your outdated home you'd think it's 1985. Superior Windowland can help bring you up to date to not only improve your home's look, but make it more energy-efficient. Here are three ways we can make over your home in the New Year:

1. Roofing

A beautiful roof can enhance your home's curb appeal and boost its value. If your roof is looking tired, turn to us! Superior Windowland's roofing crew is expertly trained in roof installation. Material options include asphalt shingles, wooden shingles or shakes, tile, slate, metal, and copper. Our experts will help you choose the best options for your home to keep the need for repairs and maintenance to a minimum.

2. Siding

According to This Old House, "...[E]xterior improvements still lead the pack in terms of biggest bang for the buck, with siding and windows paying you back over 75 percent of their cost upon resale." Updating your home's siding is a worthwhile investment that makes your house look better. Other benefits of having Superior Windowland install new siding include:

• Durable climate protection for your home
• Low maintenance
• Enhanced curb appeal
• Increased home value
• Reduced energy costs with insulated siding

3. Flooring

Redoing your floors is a great way to give your house's interior a makeover. We at Superior Windowland have a relationship with many fine flooring products. Is it time to rip up those old carpets and finally put in hardwood floors? From design, to product selection, to final installation — Superior Windowland has the expertise to complete your project seamlessly!

With Superior Windowland, you can give your home the makeover it deserves in 2015! We also specialize in windows, doors, insulation and gutters -- all of which can make your home a happier, healthier and prettier. Call us today at (203) 948-7770 for a free estimate. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

Transformation Tuesday: Before & After Window Installation

One of our favorite ways to show off what Superior Windowland can do is to present before and after photos. A side-by-side comparison highlights what a difference one small update can make. In honor of Transformation Tuesday, let's take a look at before and after photos of a Superior Windowland window installation:

Before

 

In progress

After

As you can see, the window was updated to a more modern, energy-efficient model. Furthermore, the window can now be opened. Installation of this window not only improved the building's curb appeal, but also made it more eco-friendly.

To see more photos of our projects, visit Superior Windowland's photo gallery. You'll find lots of Transformation Tuesday-worthy updates! When you're ready to embark on a home improvement project of your own, call us at (203) 948-7770. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

How Spray Foam Insulation Keeps Heat In

This time of year, we all want our homes to be as cozy as possible. After all, your house should serve as a warm refuge from brutal winter weather. Adding spray foam insulation to your home might be the solution you're looking for. Here's how spray foam insulation keeps heat in:

According to HGTV, to comprehend how spray foam insulation works, you must understand the law of thermodynamics: "heat flows in one direction, from a warm space to a cold one." The warm air inside of your home, according to this law, will flow outdoors to the cold air during the winter.

Spray foam insulation keeps heat in by filling the spaces between framing studs within your walls and in your attic. Because it expands by almost 100 times its original volume, it does a better job at filling air gaps than does fiberglass insulation. In short, spray foam insulation fills in the cracks through which warm air tries to escape.

As a partner with LaPolla, Superior Windowland uses some of the best spray foam products in the industry, including FOAM-LOK insulation. Not only will it help keep your home warm this winter, but it can also save you more than $100 per month on heating and cooling costs compared to traditional forms of insulation.

Have more questions about how spray foam insulation keeps heat in? Don't hesitate to give Superior Windowland a call at (203) 948-7770. You can also learn more at our website. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

About Superior Windowland

Before you enter any kind of relationship -- business or personal -- it's important to get to know the other party a little better. We understand that, which is why we're an open book. In this blog post, we invite you to learn a little more about Superior Windowland.

The experts of Superior Windowland have many years of experience in the window, door, and siding business. Our staff members have done both small and large residential home improvements, as well as commercial projects. No matter how you'd like to update your home, we can do it!

Our goal is a simple one: We want to make every project a special project for our customers. The philosophy at Superior Windowland is that the mark of a good company is not how things are handled when all goes right, but how it reacts to challenges that are presented. To this end, it is our intention to do everything possible to make your home improvement project perfect.

We strive to make every step of your home improvement project pleasant and valuable, from setup to cleanup. Superior Windowland's incredible staff members have extensive experience in a variety of services, including installation and repair of windows, doors and roofs. Countless hours of training and hands-on experience are the fundamentals that created what we believe in and what makes us superior.

Whether this is your first try tackling a project on your home or you've made numerous renovations, you're going to love the service provided by Superior Windowland. Thank you for getting to know Superior Windowland a bit better. We hope to provide you with a rewarding experience! Call us at (203) 948-7770 to get started.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

4 Most Common Winter Roof Problems

Your roof takes a beating from Mother Nature year-round, but especially during the winter. It braves the elements every day in order to protect you and your family. That's why it's so important to be aware of how your roof is doing. Here are the four most common winter roof problems to keep an eye out for:

1. Condensation

How does condensation affect your roof? If moisture builds up at your roof's ceiling, it can be absorbed into the wood and freeze. Once it starts freezing, the moisture expands and cracks, compromising the roof's integrity. This could damage the entire roof, causing leaks throughout your home.

2. Ice dams

An ice dam, according to Angie's List, is  "a layer of ice that forms at the edge of a roof that does not allow melting snow to drain off the roof." Water becomes trapped, and often flows into your home, causing destruction.


3. Icicles

When temperatures stay at or around freezing during the day, icicles become a common winter roof problem. Sunshine will melt the snow on your roof, causing it to dribble over the sides. If the water re-freezers, it can form icicles. Heavy ice can cause gutters to fall and roofs to cave in.


4. Flashing leaks

The flashing on your roof is a piece of sheet metal that protects joints from water damage. It's usually located at or around the chimney and any skylights and dormer windows. Disintegrated flashing can lead to leaks during the wintertime.

If it's time to replace your roof, turn to Superior Windowland. We offer many different material options including sphalt shingles, wooden shingles or shakes, tile, slate, metal, and copper. Our experts will help you choose the best options for your home to keep the need for repairs and maintenance to a minimum.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

3 Winter Home Improvement Projects to Lower Utility Costs

Here at Superior Windowland, we do more than just windows. We offer a variety of home improvement services that not only improve the look of your house, but also save you money. Below are three winter home improvement projects available from Superior Windowland that will help lower utility costs:

1. Add insulation

Extra insulation throughout your house can prevent heat from escaping this winter. “If your house was insulated more than 20 years ago, an added layer in the attic always helps,” Todd Recknagel, CEO of AM Conservation Group, told US News. You can also add insulation to your crawl space, basement and garage. Superior Windowland offers spray foam insulation, which can help you save up to 40 percent on energy costs.

2. Install south-facing windows

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends taking advantage of the sun's heat to lower utility costs. If you already have south-facing windows, keep the curtains open during the day; the sunlight will naturally heat your home. If not, contact Superior Windowland. We can help you select the perfect window type for the job!

3. Replace your doors

Replacing old doors with energy-efficient models can help reduce energy costs this winter, advises the Environmental Protection Agency. We know you will be pleased with Superior Windowland's variety and superior installation for your new doors. Our brands include Therma-Tru and Interstate.

Don't get stuck spending more than you have to this winter! Heating your home shouldn't cost you an arm and a leg. Contact Superior Windowland at  (203) 948-7770 to learn more about home improvement projects that will help lower your utility costs. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and follow us on Google+ for more tips!

How to Decorate Your Windows for the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, and there's no better way to spread cheer than by decorating your home's windows! Whether your style is traditional or modern, now's the time to up your house's curb appeal while celebrating the season. Let's discuss different ways to decorate your windows for the holidays:

1. Create a winter scene

Photo by Beth Dreiling Hontzas for Southern Living magazine

Southern Living suggests building a beautiful winter scene in your window. Take a small branch off your Christmas tree (or any fresh greenery) for the green, and purchase red cardinals from a local crafts store. Complete the winter wonderland display by adding a branch for the birds to perch upon.

2. Bring the snow indoors

Photo via Better Homes and Gardens

No, we don't mean literally. According to the experts of Better Homes and Gardens, a lacy table skirt, paper snowflakes and some ribbon is all you need for a stunning snowy design. Hang it all from a simple curtain rod, and you're done!

3. Hang ornaments

Photo via Lifehack.org

This idea from Lifehack.org is simple yet brilliant! If you can bear to part with some of your Christmas tree ornaments, hang them from a window instead. Be sure to match the ribbon to the ornament for a comprehensive style!

With these pointers, you can deck out your windows for the holiday season. What other ideas do you have for decorating your windows for the holidays? Tell us your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.

What to Do If There's Ice in Your Windows

Winter is near, and chances are you've had to fire up your home's heating system more than once already. In some homes, doing so causes condensation to form on the inside of windows. If the condensation remains well into winter, you've got a problem on your hands -- it could cause ice to form. Here's what to do if there's ice in your windows:

Many of the things we do on an everyday basis add moisture to our home's air. Between showering and cooking and everything in between, the American Society of Home Inspectors reports that we add more than 2 1/2 gallons of moisture into the air each day. Being aware of how much moisture you're creating is the first step in decreasing the humidity level of your home.

Take the following steps to limit other sources of moisture:

• Reduce humidity where it starts -- often in your basement or crawl space
• Look for drainage problems with your gutters
• Turn off your furnace's built-in humidifier 
• Run your clothes dryer vent outdoors
• Avoid air-drying wet laundry inside
• Repair plumbing leaks
• Limit the amount of houseplants you own
• Keep firewood outdoors
• Add ventilation

If you've still got ice in your windows, it may be time to replace them. Superior Windowland offers a wide variety of windows. Whether you are looking for a fine piece of furniture or a highly energy-efficient window, we have it! If for some reason we don't, we can always obtain them for your project.

To learn more, dial (203) 948-7770 today. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and follow us on Google+ for more tips!

How to Prevent Ice Dams from Forming in Your Gutters

It’s freezing out there – literally! Temperatures here in Connecticut have begun to dip below 32 degrees, meaning that your home’s gutters could be at risk for ice dams. According to This Old House, “Dams can tear off gutters, loosen shingles, and cause water to back up and pour into your house.” This is obviously not something you want for your home!

 

With that said, here’s how to prevent ice dams from forming in your gutters:

Control heat loss. When heat escapes through your roof, it melts any snow that may be present, thereby leading to ice dams in your gutters. Make sure that your attic is properly insulated and is equipped with ventilation. This will ensure that the temperature of your roof matches that of the outdoors. Learn about Superior Windowland’s spray foam insulation here.

Invest in deicing cables. HouseLogic.com recommends installing electrically-heated deicing cables along your roof’s eave lines. Doing so will help stymie the freezing process. However, some argue that the heat cables aren’t worth the cost.

Remove ice dams as they form. If your gutters are already inflicted with ice dams, you’re likely looking for a quick fix. Using a roof rake, pointing a box fan at the roof, and applying a calcium chloride ice melter are some of the most common practices of ice dam removal.

If your roof suffers damage this winter due to snow, ice, wind or anything else, don’t hesitate to call Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770. Our crew of roofing contractors is highly trained in both repairs and installation. We do everything we can to make sure your roof stands up to the most extreme climates, such as snow storms and hurricanes.

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and follow us on Google+ for more tips!

How to Prepare Your Windows for Winter

We’re well into autumn, and winter is just around the corner. Even if you’re ready for cold weather, your windows may not be. From checking for drafts to inspecting windows for cracks, let’s take a look at how to prepare your windows for winter.

The experts of BobVila.com suggest checking your windows for:

Worn out weather-stripping

When the weather stripping on your windows starts falling apart, cold outside air can find its way in. This should be replaced before winter to prevent heat loss! Refer to this guide from House Logic for tips on replacing weather stripping.

Rotting or decaying window frames

If your wooden window frames show signs of decay, it’s likely time for a repair or replacement. This will not only help keep your home warm this winter, but will also help maintain structural integrity.

Drafts

Feeling for drafts will help you identify where heat could be escaping from your house. Look back at this blog post if you’re not sure how to identify where drafts are coming from. Caulking both the inside and outside of drafty windows prevent heat from leaving your home.

Cracks, chips and breaks in the glass

These need to be replaced as soon as possible. Frigid winter temperatures could further exacerbate any fractures that already exist.

If you require any repairs or replacements, contact Superior Windowland immediately! We’ll make sure your windows are prepared to keep you and your family warm this winter. Dial (203) 948-7770 today. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and add us to your circles on Google+ for more tips!

5 Window Safety Tips

According to SafeKids.org, 127 children in the U.S. died in 2010 from fall-related injuries. Many of these fatalities were due to children falling out of windows in their homes. There are precautions you can take to avoid falls in your home. Let’s take a look at five window safety tips, which can help make your house a safer place:

1. Install window guards. According to the New York City Administration for Children’s Services, window guards can prevent falls. On the other hand, screens alone cannot. Window guards are made up of bars that are no more than 4 inches apart. This prevents children from getting in between the bars and falling out of a window.

2. Open windows from the top. Some windows can be opened from both the top and the bottom. Try to get into the habit of opening your windows from the top, which can help prevent accidental falls. When not using your windows, always keep them locked.

3. Move furniture away from windows. When young children start crawling and climbing, tragedy can happen in an instant. Keep furniture like cribs and chairs away from windows so that toddlers do not have access.

4. Come up with an escape plan. If your child doesn’t know what to do in case of an emergency, he or she may go straight to the windows. That’s one reason why coming up with an emergency escape plan is so important.

5. Install stops. Window guards aren’t made for all windows. For example, emergency escape windows cannot be covered by window guards. Installing window stops ensures that a window cannot be opened more than 4 inches.

Old windows can pose a safety risk as well. If you think your windows need updating, call the experts of Superior Windowland today at (203) 948-7770. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and add us to your circles on Google+ for more tips.