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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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It's 2015, but by looking at your outdated home you'd think it's 1985.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!

Is Your Home's Siding Outdated?

Did you know that an outdated exterior can decrease the value of your home? Whether you’re thinking about selling your house or are just thinking of ways to up its curb appeal, you may want to consider new siding. First, ask yourself whether or not your home’s siding is outdated.

Siding trends are constantly changing, just like they do in fashion. If your siding is outdated, chances are you’re not making the impression you want to be making. Does your home look tired? Is its aesthetic stuck in a different decade? If so, new siding from Superior Windowland can make all the difference.

Here’s what to look for when asking yourself whether or not your house’s siding is outdated:

• Color – bright and flashy siding is out, darker shades are in
• Texture – trendsetters are using a mix of materials to form a unique texture and look
• Energy efficiency – your siding covers a huge part of your home, and certain designs can save you money on cooling and heating

Superior Windowland's staff has sold and installed all types of siding. Our siding installation technicians are factory-trained, and have hands on experience with every type. We can help you achieve the following benefits:

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

Call Superior Windowland today at (203) 948-7770 to discuss options. From wood clapboard and wood shakes, to fiber cement siding, to vinyl siding — there is not a project we have not done. 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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5 Myths About Remodeling

Adding new windows, doors, roofing, siding, insulation, gutters and/or flooring to your home can increase your home's value. Still, you've probably heard your fair share of horror stories from friends and family members regarding launching a new residential project. Below we clear up six myths about remodeling:

Myth #1: Doing it yourself will save you money

photo credit: 401(K) 2013 via photopin cc

The truth: If you're considering taking on a home improvement project by yourself, remember the old saying: "You get what you pay for." Quality work from Superior Windowland is worth the higher starting cost. We’ll do the job right the first time, which will save you more money at the end of the day.

Myth #2: Buying your own materials will help cut down on costs

The truth: We have great relationships with our manufacturers. This allows us to get discounts that you wouldn't be able to get yourself.

Myth #3: Inside projects are more important than outside improvements

The truth: Curb appeal is more important than you might think. If a potential home buyer doesn't like the outside look of your home, he or she might not even make it inside to see your indoor renovations. When remodeling, start on the outside and then work your way in.

photo credit: Mirage floors via photopin cc

Myth #4: You shouldn't install hardwood floors in your kitchen

The truth: It's not clear where this myth came from, but hardwood floors look and work great in kitchens.

Myth #5: All remodeling contractors are the same

The truth: Not all remodeling businesses are created equal. Superior Windowland has been BBB accredited since 2011, is FEMA approved, and is fully licensed and insured.

Call us today at (203) 948-7770 to discuss your home improvement project! Don’t forget to likeSuperior Windowland on Facebook for more information on our products and services.

7 Signs You Should Invest In New Windows

Replacing your home's windows might seem like a major project that you just want to avoid, but sometimes it's a necessity. Investing in new windows can make your home more comfortable and help you save on utility costs. Here are 10 signs you should invest in new windows:

1. Opening and closing your windows is a workout

Wear and tear can take a toll on a window's gears and hardware. If it takes too much effort to open or close your windows, something's not working right.

2. Your windows are painted shut

Windows that are painted shut cannot be opened during the summer months, making your home less comfortable. More importantly, painted-shut windows pose health and safety risks, especially when it comes to fire safety.

3. You've noticed chipping, deterioration and/or water stains

photo credit: jasonbolonski via photopin cc

Chipping, deterioration and water stains are a sure sign that it's time to replace your windows. They indicate that the windows are aging badly and will not hold up for long.

4. Replacement parts are difficult to find

If your windows need to be repaired but the replacement parts are too hard to find, then you should invest in new windows. Parts for very old windows may not even be available anymore.

5. Your energy bills are too high

photo credit: Philip Taylor PT via photopin cc

Old windows were not built with energy-efficiency in mind. As home heating and cooling costs continue to soar, consider installing our OKNA Insul-Tec windows, which make your home energy efficient while enhancing its beauty.

6. You need to prop your windows open

Do you use a block of wood to hold your windows open? You shouldn't have to rely on additional assistance to enjoy a breeze!

7. Your windows are drafty

Speaking of breezes, there shouldn't be one when your windows are closed. If you notice a constant draft, it's certainly time to upgrade.

If you observe any of these indicators in your home, call Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770 today. Our crews are factory-trained not only on each of our products, but also on the proper way to install them.

Follow us on Twitter @SWindowland for more on window installation, sales and replacement.

Bay Windows vs. Bow Windows

Whether you’re designing a new home or remodeling your current house, you might be thinking about installing a bay window or bow window. While they look similar, they do have their differences. Let’s take a look at how these windows differ.

A bay window has a fixed center window joined together with venting windows on either side. On the other hand, a bow window is made up of four or more windows joined together to form an elegant curve. The windows can be fixed, venting, or a combination of the two.

"Stained Glass Bay Window Sundial (3)" by John Carmichael / CC BY 2.0

"Groothaert Boulevard De Smet de Nayer bow-window" by Michel Detry / CC BY-SA 3.0

How do you choose between these two styles? There are many factors that need to be considered.

First, you must determine whether or not you need building consent. According to DoItYourself.com, “If your house is close to the street then you will need to check how far the window is permitted to project from the building without causing a problem.” Bay windows usually protrude further than a bow window because they are generally installed at 90, 135 or 150 degree angles. So if your home is positioned close to the curb, a bow window might be your best option.

Both bay windows and bow windows are great for adding a bit of floor space to your home. This space can be used to display furniture, artwork or even boxed window seats.

Bow windows will allow more sunlight into your room because they have more panes of glass and less paneling than bay windows.

As mentioned above, a bow window can feature any combination of fixed and venting windows, whereas bay windows do not offer that flexibility. If you’re looking for added ventilation, bow windows might be the right choice for you. However, if you do choose to create a bow window out of several venting windows, note that it will be more expensive to install the opening mechanisms.

Still not sure which window is right for your next project? Call Superior Windowland at (203) 948-7770 or reach out to us on Facebook today. Our expert staff members are ready to help you determine whether a bay window or a bow window is ideal for your home.