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Three Easy Ways To Prevent Window Damage in Your Home

The windows are a key fixture in your home. Window damage can cause serious headaches for home and business owners, so it’s important to protect them and avoid the expense of a premature window replacement.

Proper installation and maintenance can help you avoid many types of window damage. However, since the exterior of your windows is directly exposed to the elements, some types of window damage can occur despite professional window installation and ongoing maintenance. Here, we’ll discuss the main types of window damage and what you can do to prevent them. 

Main Types of Window Damage

Condensation

While condensation may seem harmless, it can have a big, negative impact on your home’s windows. Condensation can form on your windows when water in the gas form reaches a surface at a lower temperature than the air around it. The lower surface temperature causes the water to change from the gas form into the liquid form. 

Window Damage From Condensation

Condensation can eventually cause drops of water to flow downward, reaching the window frame and even your home’s walls. This moisture creates the risk of water damage, including mold development, water stains, and rot. 

Preventing Damage From Condensation

To prevent condensation on your home’s windows, you’ll need to raise the temperature of the windows so that moisture in the air doesn’t solidify when it reaches the surface of your windows. To do this, you may need to open the curtains so that the warm air in your home raises the temperature of the window glass. Getting a dehumidifier in your home can also prevent high amounts of moisture in the air that can lead to condensation. 

If you do notice condensation on your windows, make sure to wipe it off with a soft cloth. This will stop the droplets of water from flowing downward and off of the glass. 

Warped Frames

If you own a home that’s on the older side, you may have windows with wooden frames. While wooden frames can be beautiful, they also present a unique set of challenges when it comes to window damage.

With fluctuating weather conditions, wood expands and contracts with the changes in temperatures. As time goes on, this will cause wooden window frames to warp. Warped frames not only look askew, but can also diminish the structure of your windows and may lead to further damage. 

Wood window frames may also become warped if water seeps into them and freezes. Water expands when it freezes, meaning that the wooded frame may crack. Cracked window frames create the risk of further water damage. 

Preventing Warped Window Frames

Unfortunately, wooden window frames are bound to expand and contract with changing temperatures outside. So, if you’re struggling with warped frames, you’re probably facing a window replacement. When you replace the window, you can choose a more durable frame material so that you don’t have to deal with warping in the future. 

Drafty Windows

Draft windows are not only a pain, but also a liability to the energy efficiency of your home. With drafty windows, your HVAC system will use more energy than is necessary to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. This will ultimately lead to higher utility bills each month.

Preventing Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are often caused by poor installation. When windows are installed properly, it can lead to gaps between the window frame and the window itself. Air can then leak in and out of your home through this gap. So, one of the best ways to prevent window damage is to hire a trusted company for your window installation. Keeping up with window maintenance can also ensure that gaps are identified and addressed early on. Caulking and sealing the windows is also a strategy for preventing air leakage through your windows. 

Window Damage Prevention Maintenance

For all types of window damage, proper maintenance is an excellent preventative tactic. Taking proper care of your windows through regular cleaning, lubricating the window tracks, inspecting for damage, and promptly repairing the damage will prolong the lifespan of your windows. 

To schedule a window replacement or installation, contact Superior Windows today. Our expert team will protect the lifespan of your home’s windows.

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Categories Blog

Choosing a Window Contractor – 6 Things You Need to Know

Choosing the right window contractor is absolutely essential. Proper window installation is essential to the longevity of windows in Minneapolis. Windows that are poorly installed won’t have the durability to hold up against the elements. Plus, windows that aren’t installed correctly tend to cause air leakage, leading to higher energy costs. 

If you need replacement windows, your choice of contractor will impact how your new windows look, operate, and hold up after years of use. The window contractor that you opt to work with isn’t a decision to take lightly, and there are many factors to take into account. 

For optimal window performance, you’ll need an experienced, trained, and qualified window contractor. Your experience throughout the window installation process should be a pleasant one, with clear communication and friendly service throughout. 

As you seek out a company to complete your window installation project, look for the following qualities:

Licensed, Insured, and Bonded Window Contractor

Before you settle on a window contractor, ensure that they’re licensed and insured. By having a license, a window contractor proves that they have the basic skills to complete the job and will comply with the building codes in your area. 

In addition to a license, your window contractor needs to be insured. The contractor’s worker’s compensation insurance protects you in the instance that a team member gets injured on the job. The liability insurance offers financial protection if the contractor damages the window during the installation process. With an insured contractor, you wouldn’t be responsible for the cost of the damaged window in this case. 

Bonded window contractors will cover the cost of window installation services from a new company if their work is poor. Additionally, they’ll cover the cost of hiring a new window company to complete the job if their company goes under mid-project. These scenarios aren’t likely to happen, but the risk is always there. So, look for a window company that’s licensed, insured, and bonded. 

Excellent Customer Service

Insight into the quality of your experience with a window contractor will be the customer service, right off the bat. If you’re able to quickly and easily get in touch with a customer service representative to get more information, it’s a sign that the company is organized. If the team is friendly, helpful, and straightforward, it’s another indicator that the company prioritizes its customers. 

No False Claims

These days, with the breadth of advertising that consumers are exposed to every day, companies have the ability to mislead. So, don’t simply trust the advertising materials put out by a window company. Follow up with them to fact-check their claims. If any of the advertising is misleading or not backed up by fact, seek out a different contractor. Making false claims is a poor business practice and a sign that the company isn’t up to scratch. 

Transparent Bids

Bids from potential window installation companies provide helpful information. The bids should be clear and comprehensive. Be wary of hidden costs, such as a disposal fee. Should there be any part of the bid that isn’t clear to you, be sure to ask the company about it. It’s also worth it, at this point, to ask about warranties, as a warranty can protect your investment in new windows.  

Window Contractor Certifications

Certifications from large manufacturers are a great sign that a Minneapolis window contractor is an expert in the field. Training and expertise in specific window products come along with certifications, meaning that most of the top window companies will have them. 

Clean-Up

While many assume that cleaning up after a window installation project is a given for professional contractors, you may be surprised at the range of quality in window services. While you’re vetting for a window installation company, ask them about their clean-up process and how they’ll handle your old windows. This will give you an idea of what you can expect after the windows are installed, as well as offer a sense of the company’s professionalism. 

With a skilled, conscientious team, Superior Windows is ready to complete your window installation project. Contact us today to learn more about our expert window services. 

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Categories Blog

Four Reasons To Choose New Energy Efficient Windows

Many homeowners today are seeking out ways to make their homes more energy-efficient. New energy efficient windows installation is a great way to optimize the efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling systems. In addition to helping keep your home’s living spaces at a comfortable temperature, new windows will make your monthly energy bills more affordable. 

You can maximize the benefits of window installation by choosing energy-efficient windows. There are many options available when it comes to eco-friendly windows, which we’ll cover below. 

Why Choose Energy Efficient Windows?

Energy Savings

Energy efficient windows are a smart choice for homeowners all across the U.S. For both new homes and homes that have long been established, energy-efficient windows are capable of significantly reducing home energy costs. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save from $126 to $465 per year by simply installing double-pane windows to replace single-pane windows. If your home is currently equipped with double-pane windows, you can still save between $27 and $111 by having them replaced by energy efficient windows. 

Less Sun Damage To Interior Home Items

Besides energy savings, energy efficient windows have a few other benefits worth noting. One key perk ones with the low-e coatings on many energy efficient windows. This coating will significantly prevent sun damage to the items within your home, including carpeting, furniture, and photographs. 

Quieter Living Spaces

Energy efficient windows are also excellent at blocking out noise from outside. You’ll notice that your home is far quieter and more peaceful with double-pane windows. 

Higher Home Selling Price

If you sell your home in the future, energy efficient windows will bolster the selling price. In fact, you’ll likely get back much of the cost of the window installation when you sell your home. Energy efficient windows raise the value of your home and are an attractive feature to modern homebuyers. 

The bottom line is that you’ll benefit from adding energy efficient windows to your home with window installation services. But, we understand that your budget is important, too. We recommend finding the most energy-efficient windows that find within your price range. Rest assured, this investment will pay off over time in energy savings. 

What Affects Window Energy Efficiency?

There are many factors that can impact the energy-efficiency of your home’s windows. These include:

Proper Installation

To ensure that your windows are energy-efficient, always work with a skilled Minneapolis window installer. Improper window installation can lead to air leakage in and out of your home, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. Additionally, if your windows are poorly installed, water could seep into your home the next time it rains, snows, or hails. This may cause costly damage to your home and would require a full window replacement. So, make sure to get it right the first time by choosing a reputable contractor. 

Window Glass

There are multiple window glass options available to you. But, dual-pane glass is far superior to single-pane glass when it comes to energy-efficiency. This is because dual-pane glass is highly insulative. Additionally, choosing to have argon gas added in between the two panes of glass will significantly cut down on the transfer of heat in and out of your home through the windows.

Frame Material

The material that you choose for the construction of the window frames will affect the window’s energy-efficiency. The main options for residential window frames include:

  • Fiberglass

Fiberglass offers stellar insulation and holds up amid temperature fluctuations. 

  • Wood

Wood is also an insulative material for window frames, and it offers low conductivity. This means that it will prevent heat and cold from transferring into your home from the outside. 

  • Vinyl 

Vinyl window frames are energy-efficient and very low-maintenance. This makes them a common choice for window replacement projects in Minneapolis. 

Boosting The Efficiency of Your Current Windows

If your budget doesn’t currently allow for brand-new windows, or if your current windows are in good shape but simply aren’t as energy-efficient as possible, there are still options at your disposal. Take the following steps to boost the energy-efficiency of existing windows:

  • Add caulk to gaps or cracks in the windows, then weatherstrip them. 
  • Consider energy-efficient window treatments. 
  • Apply solar control film to the windows. 
  • Install exterior shading for the windows. 

Contact Superior Windows today for trusted Minneapolis window installation services.

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Categories Blog

Emergency Window Damage Checklist – What You Need to Know

Your home’s windows may rarely cross your mind. But, when sudden damage strikes, you’ll realize that the windows are crucial to the safety and comfort of your entire home. Emergency window damage can pose a serious security risk to your home and needs to be addressed ASAP. 

For homeowners who find cracked panes, broken panes, broken locks, faulty seals, or other serious window issues, acting quickly is important. But, what exactly should you do to restore the condition of your windows promptly? This article will discuss emergency window damage and how you can secure window replacement services before further damage is done. 

Types of Urgent Damage

Broken Window Panes

Broken or cracked window panes may be caused by anything from a hailstorm to a poorly-aimed ball and expansion and contraction due to fluctuating outdoor temperatures. This type of window damage can expose the interior of your home and make it accessible to intruders. So, you’ll need to have it taken care of promptly. 

Immediately after a window pane breaks, safely clean up the broken glass and, if you can’t get a window repair team to your home immediately, board up the window. Then, make sure to have the window replaced as soon as possible. 

Broken Window Locks

Locking your windows is an important security measure. Window locks may break due to deterioration or poor installation. Luckily, broken window locks are fairly straightforward to fix. The lock may need to be replaced to restore the security of your window, but this task won’t be as large of an ordeal as a full window replacement. 

Damaged Window Casing

Window casings can become damaged. Whether due to gradual rotting over time or sudden impact damage, a broken window casing will likely require a full window replacement. Note that when the window is replaced, it’s crucial to check for mold damage and insect infestation so that those problems can be addressed, too. These issues can lead to further window casing damage. 

Window Maintenance To Avoid Damage

It’s worth noting that some types of emergency window damage can be avoided with proper window installation and maintenance. As far as installation goes, ensuring to enlist the help of a trusted, experienced window team will go a long way in preventing damage. Poorly installed windows are far more likely to break down, especially in harsh weather conditions. Maintenance, such as cleaning your windows and lubricating the hardware as needed, can also protect your windows against certain types of damage. Of course, a broken window due to a stray baseball or damage after a major hailstorm aren’t preventable. But, you’ll still benefit from taking great care of your windows throughout their lifespan. 

Finding The Source of The Damage

When window damage occurs, one of the first steps that you take should be to determine its cause. If it was an accident or a sudden storm, there aren’t really measures that you can take to prevent the same type of damage from happening again. But, if it was caused by water damage, poor installation, or other avoidable factors, you should take steps to prevent future damage. In the case of water damage, for example, there may be a leak somewhere in your home that should be repaired to preserve the condition of your windows. 

Contact the Window Damage Experts

If you have a damaged window, it poses the risk for weather problems, home intruders, and animals or insects infesting your home. These types of damage can quickly rack up repair expenses resulting from a single broken window. 

Reach out to your local Minneapolis window specialists as soon as you notice the damage. Professionals can advise you on the best next steps to take, whether it be to wait for technicians to arrive or have the window boarded up until it can be addressed. 

Insurance Claims For Window Damage

In addition to contacting your local window professionals, you should reach out to your insurance company after your window becomes damaged. Some types of window damage are covered under homeowners insurance. You’ll need to check with your insurance agent to find out whether or not the type of window damage at hand is covered under your policy. If it is, you can file a claim to receive compensation for the repair costs. 


Contact Superior Windows today for window replacement services across the Twin Cities.

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Categories Blog

Double-Hung Windows: Pros, Cons, and Maintenance

Double-hung windows are among the most popular designs for window replacements in Minneapolis. There are several reasons why double-hung windows are preferred among homeowners, namely convenience and energy-efficiency. However, no window design is perfect; each has its own set of drawbacks to go along with the advantages. 

This article will cover the pros and cons of double-hung windows for your window replacement, as well as the typical maintenance required for this window design. By learning more about double-hung windows and other available window models, you can make the best choice for your Denver home.  

Defining Double-Hung Windows

Before we dive in, let’s clarify what exactly double-hung windows are. Double-hung windows often get mixed up with single-hung windows. Both of these windows contain both an upper and lower sash. With two separate sashes, these window types are split into two functionally and aesthetically. From afar, it’s easy to confuse a single-hung window with a double-hung window, and vice-versa. But, these window designs have a big distinction. While a single-hung window has only one sash that moves, with a double-hung window, both sashes are operational. 

Pros of Double-Hung Windows

Color Options

Given that double-hung windows are among the most popular residential window designs in Minneapolis, you can find double-hung windows in just about any color. This is an excellent perk for homeowners seeking something more eye-catching than the typical white window. Additionally, you can get double-hung windows in all different materials. Vinyl and wood are the most common window material picks.

Energy-Efficiency

In this era, homeowners are more environmentally-conscious than ever before. So, the energy-efficiency of double-hung windows is a major benefit. With a double-locking design, double-hung windows have a very tight seal. This prevents air from leaking out of your home. Especially during the winter, when your heater will likely be running, double-hung windows will stop heated air in your home from seeping outside. This will allow your heater to operate more efficiently and will even lead to lower energy bills. 

Easy To Operate

With a double-hung window, either of the sashes can open to allow fresh air into your home. The ability to slide the window open from either sash makes it easy to use, especially for older individuals or those with mobility concerns. 

Easy To Clean

Most of us don’t like window cleaning, especially when it’s a time-consuming chore. With double-hung windows, you can tilt the sashes so that they’re more accessible, making them easier to clean on both sides. You won’t have to head outside to clean double-hung windows, which is a particularly good perk if your windows are situated on the upper floor of your home. 

Cons of Double-Hung Windows

Hardware

Tending to the hardware is an important aspect of maintaining double-hung windows. You’ll need to lubricate the tracks to ensure that the sashes can easily move within the frame. If you don’t lubricate the tracks, the double-hung windows may get stuck and become tricky to operate. 

Price

Since both of the sashes in a double-hung window open up and down, the design is more complex than you’ll find with other window designs. This versatile functionality is a pro, but it also means that the price point of double-hung windows is comparatively high. While double-hung windows aren’t the most expensive type of windows around, they’re not the cheapest option on the market.  

Double-Hung Windows Maintenance

So, if you choose double-hung windows for your window replacement, what type of maintenance will you need to take care of? In addition to the hardware maintenance that we mentioned above, you should clean the window frame and glass. 

Cleaning Double-Hung Windows

Cleaning your double-hung windows will give them a more beautiful appearance and provide the opportunity to inspect your windows for damage. The cleaning tactic that you should take for the frame will depend on its material. For both wood and vinyl frames, use warm water and a dash of a mild detergent, like dish soap.

If you’re interested in window replacement, contact Superior Windows today. We provide double-hung windows along with other popular window designs to upgrade your home’s interiors.

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