3 Reasons To Visit Our Showroom

Did you know that Superior Windowland has a huge showroom conveniently located in Newtown, Connecticut? You can see a variety of colors and styles for the products we offer. Below are three more reasons you should visit our showroom.

Get a Clear Picture

There’s only so much you can gather from a brochure or website. When it comes to shopping for new windows, doors, siding, roofing and hardwood floors, you’re better off seeing Superior Windowlands selection in person. There’s simply no substitute for being able to see our products up close.

Conveniently Compare

It’s not easy to compare products when your only point of references are all squeezed into a tiny brochure. At Superior Windowlands showroom, you can easily compare your choices side-by-side to determine which is right fit for your home.

Receive Expert Advice

When you visit our showroom, you get more than a close-up look. Our knowledgeable staff is available to discuss options and help you choose the perfect materials. The experts of Superior Windowland will offer tips for both commercial and residential projects of all sizes.

Ready to come see what Superior Windowland has to offer in person? Visit our showroom at 3 Simm Lane in Newtown, Connecticut. We look forward to helping you! Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to learn more expert tips and tricks for homeowners.

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!

Why You Should Install Hardwood Flooring this Winter

Some people worry that adding hardwood flooring in the winter is a bad idea. However, thanks to certain winder conditions -- like dryness -- wintertime is actually an ideal time to lay hardwood floors. Below is an in-depth look at why you should install hardwood flooring this winter:

Dry winter conditions prevent warping

Moisture and wood do not mix. One reason why you should install hardwood flooring in the winter is because the air is usually drier, meaning moisture won't get trapped. The less moisture there is when you lay hardwood flooring, the less of a chance your floor will buckle and warp.

It's easier to space the floorboards

Winter in Connecticut is cold, and cold air makes wooden floorboards contract. This is a good thing when it comes to installing hardwood floors. That's because it's easier to space the floorboards out, and you don't have to worry about large gaps forming between pieces.

Your schedule is less hectic

Once the holiday season dies down, chances are your schedule will clear up. You'll have plenty of time to decide which hardwood flooring suits your style best. More importantly, you'll have no problem scheduling an appointment for installation!

We at Superior Windowland have excellent relationships with many fine flooring products. Our team will be happy to help you put together the perfect solution for your flooring needs. From design, to product selection, to final installation—we have the expertise to complete your project seamlessly.

So what are you waiting for? Let's transform your home this winter with beautiful new hardwood flooring! Dial (203) 948-7770 for more information. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and follow us on 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!

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.

Taking Care of Your Hardwood Floors

Keeping your hardwood floors immaculate is a difficult task. Scratches and spills are inevitable and will drive most homeowners crazy. However, with these maintenance tips you can keep your floors looking and feeling new!

Dust

Reduce the build-up of dust and dirt on your floors by dusting daily. Use a microfiber towel or vacuum to keep your floors absent of allergy-causing, stubborn dirt and dust. Regular dusting products may not be the best choice.

Choose the correct cleaning formula

According to Lowe's Home Improvement Center there are some ingredients to consider when looking for a hardwood floor cleaner. pH-neutral, non-toxic, and biodegradable are key words to look for when selecting cleaning products.

Never use water

You might damage your floors and cause rot by using water to clean your floors. You can use a damp cloth to wipe up spills, but pouring water directly onto to floor is a no-no.

Floor Mats

Positioning floor mats both inside and outside of the room will help prevent dirt and any water from the bottom of your shoes from coming in contact with your hardwood floors.

Pets

Keep your pet’s nails trimmed to avoid surface scratches, and clean up any hair that has shed.

Deep Cleaning

If you haven’t taken proper care of your flooring in the past you may need to perform a deep cleaning. To do so, use a diluted wood-cleaning product and a sponge or rap mop. Be sure to wipe up any left-over cleaning product.

Superior Windowland has a relationship with many fine flooring products. Our team will be happy to help you put together the perfect solution for your flooring needs. From design, to product selection, to final installation—we have the expertise to complete your project seamlessly. Give us a call today at (203) 948-7770. Also, don't forget to follow us on Twitter!

The Dangers of DIY Window Installation

When it comes to home renovations, DIY (do-it-yourself) projects are all the rage these days. Now more than ever, people are reluctant to hire a professional when they feel like they can get the job done on their own. What most people don’t consider, however, are the dangers of DIY projects like window installation. Below are a few points to consider before attempting to install new windows on your own.

It’s labor-intensive. You may not realize it, but replacing windows is hard work. In fact, installing heavy, thick windows is certainly too much work for just one person. Even if you have an extra set of hands, inexperience can make window installation very dangerous. By hiring an expert, you can avoid injury and damages.

Older homes may contain harmful substances. According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), “If your home was built before 1978, there is a good chance it has lead-based paint.” The lead inside this paint is a common cause of lead poisoning. Chances are you don’t know how to check for lead and you’re not familiar with proper safety precautions. The professionals of Superior Windowland, on the other hand, are trained on how to deal with harmful substances like lead and asbestos.

Your windows might not operate correctly. Even a slight mismeasurement can cause problems with your window’s functionality. Without a perfect fit, your window may not open or close correctly – a potentially unsafe situation. Furthermore, a poorly-fitting window will often result in drafts, which can take a toll on your utility bills.

DIY window installation is more dangerous than one might assume. Superior Windowland is an industry leader, and our skilled technicians will always install your windows the right way. Our goal is not just to help you choose and install your new windows, but also to keep you and your family safe.

To learn more, visit us on the web, call us at (203) 948-7770 or like us on Facebook!

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.

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!