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.

For more tips, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.

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.

Windows 101

Your home's windows can greatly influence its overall appearance, both inside and outside. They also impact your home in terms of functionality and energy-efficiency. Before you begin shopping around for new windows, it's important to have a basic understanding of how windows work.

Windows 101

Style

A significant consideration when updating your home's windows is how the finished product will look. Decide upon a style for your home, and look for windows that will complement your house's current architectural features. The experts of Superior Windowland can help you select windows that match your house's current look and feel.

Energy-Efficiency

Installing new windows can also make your house more energy-efficient. The OKNA Insul-Tec is our most popular choice for window replacement because it combines excellent craftsmanship with a traditional look and feel. Superior Windowland offers a variety of options to make your home energy-efficient while enhancing its beauty!

Utility

You wouldn't buy a new outfit without trying it on, right? Well, the same goes for your windows. Test out different windows at our showroom to understand their various functions. Here are some sample questions worth pondering:

• Does it open in or out?
• Will everyone in your family be able to reach the handle(s)?
• Is it pet-friendly?
• Will it provide relief in the summer?
• Can you seal it up in the winter?

Care

A new window -- as with most updates to your home -- will require regular maintenance throughout its lifespan. Speak with a Superior Windowland technician about how to care for your windows after installation. Certain types of windows will need to be tended to more often.

Now that you've read through our Windows 101 guide, you may have some additional questions. Please feel free to give Superior Windowland a call at (203) 948-7770. We'll help you select the perfect type of windows for the job. Don't forget to like us 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.

How to Connect with Superior Windowland on Social Media

Superior Windowland delivers an unparalleled level of customer service. Whether you need a broken window repaired or new siding for your entire house, you can count on us for complete satisfaction.

Our goal is to help make your project picture perfect, and we offer support during every phase of the process. To that end, we've made ourselves available on social media.

That's right, we've made getting in touch with Superior Windowland even easier. Like us on Facebook for tips, news and much more. Follow us on Twitter @SWindowland to stay on top of updates and specials. Are you a Google+ user? If so, follow Superior Windowland and leave us a review!

Last but certainly not least, we'd love for you to subscribe to Superior Windowland on YouTube. Please let us know what you think of our animated video!

To connect with Superior Windowland on social media, simply click the links above. Doing so will keep you in the loop with our updates and news. Visit Superior Windowland online or call us at (203) 948-7770 for more information about our business.

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!

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!

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!