3 Home Improvement Tips for Spring

We're just two weeks out from the first day of spring! Ready to freshen up your house? Outside of spring cleaning, here are three home improvement tips for spring:

1. Repair your gutters

Loose and leaky gutters make for improper drainage. This can lead to flooding in your home's basement or crawl space. Before spring rains begin, check your gutters for debris and make sure all downspouts lead away from the foundation.

2. Examine your roof

Take a look around your property and up at your roof to see if any shingles were lost or damaged over the winter. Keep in mind that the hot summer sun can take a toll on roof shingles. Ones that look cracked and worn now need to be replaced before summer arrives.

3. Clean your air conditioners

Pretty soon you're going to be turning off the heat and pumping up the AC. Clean the coils of your air conditioning system for superior performance during the warmer months.

If you need help with your spring home improvement projects, turn to Superior Windowland. Call us today at (203) 948-7770 for a FREE estimate.

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New Photos of Our Showroom

We've previously discussed why it's so important to stop by our showroom. To help entice you, we'd like to show you new photos of our showroom! Below you'll get a taste of what to expect when you visit Superior Windowland's showroom at 3 Simm Lane in Newtown, Connecticut:

1. Windows

Superior Windowland offers a wide array of windows. Whether you're looking for a beautiful piece of furniture or would like to improve your home's energy efficiency, we've got the window for you. Here are some of the windows on display at our showroom:

2. Flooring


We at Superior Windowland have great relationships with many fine flooring manufacturers. Our team will be happy to help you put together the perfect solution for your flooring needs. Take a look at some of the flooring options you'll see when you stop by:

3. Doors

The experts of Superior Windowland have years of experience in installation and sales of all types of doors. Entry doors enhance the overall beauty and efficiency of your home. Below are a couple of the doors we have on display:

4. Siding

From wood clapboard and wood shakes to fiber cement and vinyl siding — there is not a project we can't do. Visit our showroom to get a better idea of the types of siding Superior Windowland will install. Here's just a taste:

So join us at 3 Simm Lane in Newtown, Connecticut, to tour our showroom and see all of your options up-close. Have questions for Superior Windowland? Feel free to give us a call at (203) 948-7770. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Google+ for more tips!

How to Prevent Scuff Marks on Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are certainly beautiful, but they're also quite easy to scuff. And while scuff marks are not as grave as scratches or nicks, they put a blemish on your gorgeous flooring. Did you know that you can actually prevent scuff marks on your hardwood floors? Here's how:

Ask family members and visitors to take off their shoes. It might sound tedious, but the first step in preventing scuff marks is getting people to keep their shoes off. Doing so will ensure that sneakers, high heels and boots never get near to your stunning hardwood flooring.

Cover high-traffic areas with rugs. Area rugs come in handy when it comes to preventing scuff marks on your hardwood floors. They're small enough that they don't conceal the natural beauty of the wood flooring, and can protect high-traffic areas in your home. Plus, they can accentuate your decor!

Attach felt protector pads to the bottom of furniture. If it's your furniture that's causing scuff marks on your floors, then look for floor protectors. According to the World Floor Covering Association, there are many different types to consider:

• Self-adhesive felt pad 
• Formed-felt pads
• Tap-in felt glides
• Rubber & Teflon-like grippers
• Stick-on & screw-on foot protectors
• And more!

Following these steps should prevent scuff marks on your hardwood floors. If your floors are scuffed, scratched or dented beyond repair, contact Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770. We have a relationship with many fine flooring products, and our team will be happy to help you put together the perfect solution for your flooring needs.

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

Can My Roof Withstand Heavy Snow?

It's difficult not to start dreading winter when right now the people of Buffalo are digging themselves out of what seems like an endless snowstorm. After all, it's only a matter of time before snowfall heads our way. As we hear more and more stories of people's homes being destroyed by more than 5 feet of snow, you might be asking yourself, "Can my roof withstand heavy snow?" Here's what you need to know.

According to AccuWeather.com, a cubic foot of packed snow could weigh up to 20 pounds. If you're worried about whether or not your roof can withstand heavy snow, keep an eye out for the following:

• A sagging roof
• Extreme roof leaking
• Cracks in your walls
• Creaking noises

If you notice any of the above, contact Superior Windowland as soon as possible at (203) 948-7770. Our crew of roofing contractors is highly trained and will be able to spot potential problems.

If your roof looks like it might not be able to withstand heavy snow, we'll provide a free estimate along with superior customer service every step of the way. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and follow us on Google+ for more tips!

3 Reasons to Avoid DIY Spray foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation offers many benefits, varying from better air quality to energy savings. And with DIY (do-it-yourself) spray foam kits readily available, you might be thinking about updating your home’s insulation on your own. Below are three reasons to avoid DIY spray foam insulation solutions:

They can smell. If not installed correctly, spray foam insulation can cause a strong, fishy smell as a result of off-gassing. In fact, according to CBC News, the scent has driven homeowners out of their houses, “some complaining of difficulty breathing and other health problems.” Superior Windowland uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure proper installation and procedures that will prevent any unpleasant smells.

They can crack. When insulation starts to crack or chip, it stops doing its job. Unfortunately, improperly applied spray foam insulation can fall apart. That’s because the process involves the precise mixing of two chemical compounds. The everyday person just isn’t familiar with the mixing, layering, and temperature specifications!

Removing the insulation is expensive. If you do try to apply your own spray foam insulation and it goes badly, you will have trouble finding a contractor to remove it for an affordable price. Spray foam insulation is super-durable, making it hard to uninstall. CBC News reports that it could cost thousands of dollars.

When it comes to spray foam insulation, avoid DIY approaches. Turn to the experts of Superior Windowland. We’ve successfully installed hundreds of retro, open cell, closed cell and roofing cell projects. As with our other remodeling expertise, we are now considered a leader in the spray foam industry! Dial (203) 948-7770 to learn more. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and add us to your circles on Google+ for more tips.

3 Natural Ways to Clean Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can be tricky to clean. Commercial cleaners with heavy chemicals or wax can cause unsightly buildup, reports the Huffington Post. Harsh chemicals can also damage the wood, causing it to swell and become uneven over time. For these and other reasons, you might want to consider nontoxic cleaning solutions. Below are three natural ways to clean your hardwood floors.

1. Vinegar

According to CleanMama.net, mopping and/or scrubbing your hardwood floors with a mixture of ½ cup of white vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water is a great cleaning technique. Worried about the scent? Add a few drops of essential oil to eliminate the “pickle smell.”

2. Lemon and olive oil

Hearts.com recommends combining ½ cup of lemon juice, ¾ cup of olive oil and 1 gallon of warm water for an effective wood cleaning solution. Using a mop, apply the mixture to your hardwood floors. Be sure not to apply too much water, however, which can warp the wood.

3. Tea

Can black tea really be good for your hardwood floors? RuralSpin.com argues that it’s easy, cheap and effective:

Simply brew 3 tea bags with four cups or so of boiling water. Let it sit to cool a bit, then use a funnel to transfer it to a spray bottle. It’s ready to use. Spray it on your floor enough to see a sheen of wetness, but don’t overdo it; too much moisture takes too long to dry and can warp your wood through time. After you spray it, wipe or mop to remove dirt. I use wash cloths that I attach to a Swiffer sweeper. Or I get on my hands-and-knees and clean the floors old-school. Rinsing isn’t required.

Not only does tea smell much better than vinegar, but it also helps deepen and enhance your hardwood floor’s natural color. Would you try it?

If your hardwood floors are too far gone to clean, contact Superior Windowland and ask about our flooring products. Our team will be happy to help you put together the perfect solution for your hardwood flooring needs. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and add us to your circles on Google+ for more tips.

3 Tips for Choosing a New Front Door

If you’re in the market for a new front door, you’ve come to the right place. Superior Windowland offers a variety of entry doors and years of experience in both installation and sales. Today, there are many options when choosing a new door - from wood to fiberglass, with each material available in a variety of colors and styles. Below are three tips for choosing a new front door.

Which material is right for you? A wood door offers different benefits than a steel door. It’s important to first determine what your priorities are, and then choose a material based on that. For example, according to This Old House, “A steel door is your best bet if security and durability are top priorities.” Not only are they more robust than wood and fiberglass doors, but they’re also easy to repair. Other material options include glass, fiberglass and aluminum.

What’s your home’s aesthetic? Front doors aren’t all about function; it’s also important that your new door “complement and add to the aesthetic of your home,” advises Houzz. The right door will help give your house a facelift. In fact, choosing a door that adds something to your home actually increases its curb appeal and resale value.

How’s your budget? Think about both up-front costs and long-term costs when shopping for a new entry door. “Make sure you are well aware of the energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, and life expectancy of the door you are selecting,” recommends Bob Vila. They will all impact how much your new entryway costs you in the long run.

The ultimate choice is up to you, but if you need guidance, Superior Windowland’s expert staff can assist. Allow us to help you find the perfect door for your home remodeling project! Dial (203) 948-7770 for a free estimate. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and add us to your circles on Google+ for more tips.

Why You Should Install Energy-Efficient Windows

Did you know that your home's windows could be negatively affecting its energy efficiency? If you're on a tight budget, or if you'd just like to save on your energy bills, it may be time for an energy-efficient window upgrade. Let's discuss a few more reasons why you should install energy-efficient windows:

Energy savings

According to U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to energy-efficient, single-pane windows can save New Englanders approximately $501 per year. Imagine what you could do with an extra few hundred bucks?

Improved comfort

Inefficient windows can create drafts, making your home colder than desirable in the winter. During the summer months, solar radiation can come through your windows, causing overheating and discomfort. Upgrading to a window made from low-E glass will help keep your home comfortable, regardless of the conditions outdoors.

Reduced fading

If your home has old windows, you might have noticed your furniture, carpets and artwork fading over time. Strong sunlight can transmit radiation, breaking down chemical bonds in your possessions and leading to fading. Certain windows can reduce UV transmission to less than one percent!

To speak with a professional about why you should install energy-efficient windows, call the experts at Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770 today! Both our installers and representatives are familiar with every type of window, its features, and how to properly install it. There is not a project we have not seen or cannot figure out.

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Everything You Need to Know About Window Condensation

Is fog collecting on your home’s windows? At first you might think the glass is to blame, but that’s probably not the case. More often than not, window condensation indicates that the air inside your home is filled with too much moisture.

Energy-efficient windows work to keep the inside of your home cool during the summer months and warm in the winter. Sometimes this can result in excess moisture and higher levels of humidity in your house. Your windows’ glass provides a cold surface that allows humid air to visibly condense.

The solution, then, is not to get rid of your new, energy-efficient windows. Rather, you must control the humidity in your home. Try the following:

• Crack windows and doors to let humidity out
• Run exhaust fans in your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room
• Open up drapes and curtains to let air hit your windows
• Switch off humidifiers
• Purchase a dehumidifier for rooms with excess moisture

However, if you notice window condensation in between two layers of glass in an insulated glass unit, the glass might need to be replaced. This type of condensation is due to a broken airtight seal rather than humidity levels inside your home.

Allow us to help you diagnose the problem! The experts at Superior Windowland are factory-trained not only on windows, but the proper way to install them. Dial (203) 948-7770 today for service!

Add us to your circles on Google+ for more updates from Superior Windowland.

The Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

With energy costs at an all-time high, it’s more important than ever to make sure your home is energy efficient. That’s why the spray foam industry has exploded in recent years. Superior Windowland offers all types of spray foam solutions for your home. Let’s discuss the benefits of spray foam insulation:

Better Air Quality

A great thing about spray foam insulation is that it provides a barrier to the outdoors. This is important because outdoor air carries allergens and moisture. Keeping them out will ensure your home’s air remains clean and dry.

Eco-Friendly

While some forms of insulation can be dangerous to the environment, our spray foam insulation produces no harmful emissions.

Energy Savings

photo credit: 401(K) 2013 via photopin cc

Did you know that by investing in spray foam insulation, you can save up to 40 percent on energy costs for your home? The experts at Superior Windowland use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your spray foam insulation is installed properly. What does that mean for you? You save as much money as possible.

Resale Value

In today’s real estate market, energy-efficient homes are more in demand than ever. Energy prices continue to skyrocket, and a home with spray foam insulation is guaranteed to stay cooler in the summer and warmer throughout the winter.

Best of all, spray foam insulation will not sag, settle, or shrink over time, so you get to enjoy a lifetime of benefits. Call Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770 today to learn more about spray foam insulation.

3 Tricks for Making Small Windows Look Larger

Unfortunately, not every home comes with beautiful, large-scale windows. And if you can't remodel due to structural or financial constraints, you probably think you're stuck with the windows you've got. However, you'll be happy to know that you can make your tiny windows look at least a little bigger using these three tricks:

1. Hang Floor-Length Curtains or Drapes

One way to make your windows look bigger is to elongate them with long curtains or drapes. Hang window treatments at or near the ceiling and make sure they come to the floor. Make the effect even more noticeable by choosing curtains and draperies with vertical stripes.

photo credit: ursonate via photopin cc

2. Use a Curtain Rod that's Wider Than the Window

You might want to make your windows appear wider than they are, in which case you should choose a drapery rod that's at least 60 percent wider than your window. Use drawing curtains that can be spread across the entire space. People who look at your window will assume that the extra fabric covers the window.

3. Choose Your Colors & Patterns Wisely

If you match the color of your draperies to that of your walls, the window will appear larger. That's because it's difficult to realize where a window begins and where the wall stops if they're the same color. Use curtains with a similar texture to the wall for full effect.

photo credit: Mix and Chic

Will you use these tricks to make your windows appear larger? If so, tweet us photos of the finished product @swindowland!

If you'd rather upgrade to larger windows, don't hesitate to contact Superior Windowland at (203) 94-7770.

Window Repair vs. Window Replacement

Whether your windows aren't working the way they used to or you’re looking to reduce your energy bills, it’s time to consider your options. Does your home need new windows or just some repairs?

If you've noticed rotting wood, you might be able to repair your windows instead of replacing them. Rotten frames can allow water and air leaks, so you’ll want to take care of them ASAP. Fixing a rotting window can cost you as little as $25 and as much as $700. It all depends on the severity of the rot.

photo credit: infiniti9977 via photopin cc

Dealing with broken window panes? For vinyl windows, you might as well replace the whole thing. However, if you've got vintage windows and would like to preserve the look, repairing the damage will be worth the price.

photo credit: generalising via photopin cc

When windows become foggy from condensation, it’s usually due to a broken seal. The experts at Superior Windowland can repair your windows by replacing your panes, preserving your frames and renewing the life of your window.

Perhaps your windows aren't operating smoothly, meaning you've having trouble opening and closing them. This could happen for a number of reasons, but you can usually repair the issue at affordable prices. If replacement parts cannot be found, then you should replace the whole window.

There's nothing worse than drafty windows, but repairing them is easier than you think. We can help you seal gaps and weather strip your windows for less than you thought possible. Sealing the links in your windows can save you up to 20 percent on your energy bills!

With Superior Windowland, repairing and replacing your old windows is easy and inexpensive. Share photos of your updated windows on our Facebook page!

How to Wash Your Windows the Eco-Friendly Way

According to Scientific American, it’s true that many household cleaners contain substances that may be toxic. However, you can still get your windows clean without hurting the environment. Let’s discuss a few eco-friendlier ways to wash your windows:

photo credit: kleuske via photopin cc

photo credit: Arria Belli via photopin cc

1.  The folks at BobVila.com suggest using mild soap, water and a soft sponge on your windows instead of toxic glass cleaning chemicals. It’s the simplest and safest way to clean! Just be sure to rinse and wipe dry to avoid soap stains.

2. Here’s an eco-friendly window cleaner recipe from Oprah.com: Combine three tablespoons of vinegar, 1/3 teaspoon of liquid vegetable soap and two cups of water in a spray bottle. Spray as needed!

3. A similar recipe from LifeHacker advises mixing equal parts of vinegar, water and isopropyl alcohol inside a spray bottle for an eco-friendly glass cleaner. Use it on windows, mirrors and more.

If you’re not interested in concocting your own green glass cleaner, you can find some environmentally-friendly brands in stores. Popular products include:

• Attitude Window & Mirror Eco-Cleaner
• California Rose Garden Glass Cleaner
• Begley's Natural Glass Cleaner
• Better Life I Can See Clearly, Wow! Natural Glass Cleaner
• Citra Clear Natural Glass & Window Cleaner

Find more eco-friendly glass cleaners (with links to purchase) here. Which do you prefer to use on your new windows from Superior Windowland – commercial cleaning supplies or homemade solutions? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Tell us at our Facebook page!

5 Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool this Summer

There’s nothing worse than a house that feels like a furnace in the summertime. Your home should provide relief from the outside temperature, not the other way around. Here are five tips for keeping your home cool and comfortable this summer:

photo credit: Scott Ableman via photopin cc

1. Install your air conditioning units on the north side of your house whenever possible. “An AC unit operating in the shade uses up to 10% less electricity than one in the sun,” advises Good Housekeeping. You can also plant trees to help shade your windows and save energy!

photo credit: Dickbauch via Wikipedia Commons CC-BY-SA-3.0

2. Replace your windows with Superior Windowland's OKNA Insul-Tec products. These energy-efficient windows are manufactured to keep heat outside the home in the summertime. This will not only reduce solar heat gain, but also help reduce cooling costs!

3. Turn your lights off, especially if you haven’t yet upgraded to compact fluorescents and LEDs. According to the Huffington Post, “incandescent light bulbs can produce as much heat as they do light.” Yikes!

4. Install heavy drapes on your windows. Forbes reports that “Hanging heavy drapes in front of windows will help keep the house cool by not letting the glaring sun warm up the house.” Doing so will help make your house an oasis in the hot summer months.

photo credit: krossbow via photopin cc

5. Use a ceiling fan to get the most out of your air conditioning. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests using ceiling fans in order to create a wind chill effect. “If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort,” the department states. How cool is that?

What other tips do you have for cooling your home in warm weather? Share your thoughts on our Google+ page.

If your house isn't as cool as you think it should be, contact the experts at Superior Windowland by dialing (203) 948-7770. We’ll help determine whether or not your windows need to be upgraded during a free, at-home consultation.

How to Clean Your Home's Windows like a Pro

Let’s face it – nobody likes cleaning their home’s windows. It can be difficult and is certainly time consuming. But washing your windows at least twice a year can keep your windows looking brand new.

"Gordijnen aan venster" by Nieuw / CC BY-SA 3.0

Before we get into how to clean your windows like a pro, let’s discuss what not to do:

Don’t use paper towels and elbow grease

Rubbing your windows too much can make the glass static, which will attract more dust and dirt. It defeats the purpose!

Don’t clean your windows in the sun

"Sun Star Bright Light Sky Sunlight Cloudless" by OpenClips / CC0 1.0

Washing your windows in direct sunlight can cause them to dry too quickly, making water spots and smears more likely.

Don’t clean screens on the window

To wash your screens, remove them first and then clean them outdoors. This way you can be as thorough as possible without making a mess inside.

Now that we’ve got what not to do out of the way, it’s time to discuss how you should clean your home’s windows. These tips are from the pros:

Do create your own cleaning solution

"Afwasmiddel Una Aldi" by Onderwijsgek / CC BY-SA 3.0

There’s no need to buy fancy shmancy window cleaning solution. The best way to wash your windows is by adding a squirt of dishwashing liquid to a pail of warm water. Try to avoid making it too sudsy, though.

Do wipe clean with a squeegee

According to Reader’s Digest, washing your windows with a squeegee will prevent streaks and keep your windows sparkling. The best squeegees have a smooth, soft rubber edge that won’t smudge.

Do dry remaining drips

"Water Drops" by Steve Beger / CC BY-SA 2.0 

After you’ve squeegeed, dry remaining water and suds with a damp chamois cloth, advises This Old House. It’ll soak up the moisture without leaving streaks.

What do you think about these tips? Do the pros have it right? Sound off on our Facebook page! Remember to choose Superior Windowland for all of your home improvement projects.

When to Replace Your Home's Windows

Considering updating your windows, but unsure whether or not it's necessary? Some windows can be repaired and don’t need to be changed altogether. But if you've noticed any of the following in your home, it’s likely time to consider an update – especially if your home is more than 15 years old.

The biggest warning sign that it’s time to update your windows is if they won’t open or close properly. According to Yahoo! Homes, this is especially true for older homes with double and single hung windows. If the balance fails, your window will have trouble staying up, which could be hazardous.

Another sign that your old window might need to be replaced is if you notice condensation on the inside of the glass. Fog between the panels usually indicates that the seal has failed, allowing moisture to enter the space. This is most common in double- or triple-paned windows.

"Condensation Sensation!" by Erin Perry /  CC BY-SA 2.0

Have you noticed fading in your furniture, carpets and drapes? If so, it could mean that your windows are allowing too many ultraviolet rays to enter your home, advises Andersen Windows: “Upgrading your windows to more energy efficient products can potentially reduce fading and extend the life of your personal and household items.”

You should also replace any windows that are leaky. Obviously you don’t want the outside weather to enter your home. But, perhaps more importantly, “Inefficient windows can leak, allowing water to come into your house both in front of and behind the walls—a leading cause of mold and mildew in homes,” warns Andersen Windows.

There are many other reasons you might want to replace your home’s windows as well. If they’re drafty, difficult to lock, or if your energy costs are higher than you’d like, updating is a good idea. Call Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770 for a free, in-home consultation regarding your windows.

Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for more home improvement tips!

What Services Does Superior Windowland LLC Provide?

Superior Windowland is an industry leader in windows, doors, spray foam insulation, and more. We’ve got years of experience and training under our belt, so you can rest assured that our factory-trained crew will handle your project properly and professionally. If you’re looking to upgrade your home, read on to learn more about our services.

Windows

As our business name implies, we specialize in installing all types of windows. We’re familiar with every type of window, from its features to how to install it. We’ve seen it all! Some of the windows Superior Windowland offers include:

• Double-Hung Windows
• Single-Hung Windows
• Awning Windows
• Fixed Windows
• Sliding Windows
• Casement Windows
• Bay Windows
• Bow Windows
• Tilt and Turn Windows

Not sure which type of window is right for your home? We’re happy to help you select the ideal product for the job from top brands like Andersen, Jeld-Wen, OKNA and Interstate. Superior Windowland can even repair your broken windows! 

Roofing

Superior Windowland’s crew of roofing contractors is amply trained in repairs and installation. We’re happy to provide you with a free estimate for your roofing project. And, as with all of our services, we promise to provide superior customer service every step of the way.

We offer a variety of roofing materials, each of which has its own pros and cons. They include asphalt, wood, tile, slate, metal and copper. If you’re not sure which option is best for your home, our experts are ready to help you decide. Our brands include Timberline, TruDefinition Duration and CertainTeed

Siding

We at Superior Windowland sell and install all types of siding. From wood clapboard and wood shakes to fiber cement and vinyl siding — there is not a project we have not done. We use only the best brands to install your siding, like CertainTeed and James Hardie. Call us to discuss the best option for your home.

Doors

Your home’s front door is one of the most visible and important components to its overall look. You can count on our experienced staff to help you choose a door that will not only enhance the beauty, but also the efficiency of your home. Our door brands include Therma-Tru and Interstate, both of which are known for their excellence.

We’re also experts in spray foam insulation, gutters, hardwood flooring and so much more. So whether you want to make a small change to your home or completely renovate it, choose Superior Windowland. We serve areas in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Share your remodeling project with us on Facebook or Twitter today. We love seeing your photos!