Do I need new windows?!

Wondering if your windows are in need of replacement? Here are some things to look for.

Sometimes you’re not sure if your windows are in need of replacement.  Here are some ways you can tell:

You can’t open your windows and when you do, they don’t stay open.

Old windows just don’t operate like they should. They can be hard to open or hard to lock. A window that doesn’t operate well doesn’t perform well.

Maybe your windows are the old single pane windows with storm windows on the outside.

Let’s face it, single pane windows just can’t keep up with today’s high energy bills. And those old aluminum storm windows don’t help like you think they do. Today’s windows have never been more efficient and upgrading those old, tired single pane windows just makes sense.

Maybe you have the dreaded “builder grade windows.”

When your house was first built, the windows the builder installed looked just fine. Then you moved in, the builder went on to the next project, and you were left with poor quality, builder grade windows.

These are designed to last between 10-15 years, at the most and if you do need to replace parts, good luck. Many of these “builder-grade” window companies have gone out of business or have been bought out by bigger window companies. 

Foggy windows and it isn’t even raining outside.

If you have a “fog” or a “haze” in your windows and, no matter how hard you scrub, you can’t seem to get it clean, it probably means the “seal” between the panes is gone and the insulating gas that helped make your window efficient has floated into the atmosphere. That’s bad.

Sure, you might have 2 panes of glass but without the insulation in between, your windows will be drafty and inefficient. 

Time for a face lift. 

Your windows are one of the first things people see when they pull up to your house. With a fresh new look, your windows can really make a statement. 

And with today’s technology, windows are more customizable than ever before. 

It IS possible to have form and function all in one great product.

also posted in Education, Windows

Full Frame Window Installation Process

One way to refresh your windows is with a replacement window product, which is inserted into the old window frame without replacing any of the trim or exposing any of the rough framing of the house.  Another option, as shown in this video, is what Paul calls a ‘Full Frame’ window replacement: the entire window, including the frame and interior/exterior trim are replaced.

Mass Save HEAT loans and rebates
Mass Save HEAT loans and rebates

Mass Save offers homeowners in Massachusetts some great ways to save money while improving the energy efficiency of their homes. Watch Paul’s short video or read on to learn more about how their programs apply to window replacement projects.

Understanding the Window Sticker
Understanding the Window Sticker

Every new window, door, or skylight sold in the U.S. comes with an NFRC-certification. The sticker that comes on your new product contains a lot of information! We are here to help you understand it all.

Replacement Windows: Process Explained
Replacement Windows: Process Explained

In this video, Paul walks us through what IS and IS NOT changed when you choose a replacement window for your improvement project. There are several ways to replace an existing window; choosing a replacement window product is usually the quickest and most cost effective way to go.

We like to give you choices.
We like to give you choices.

When it comes to remodeling your home, the amount of choices you may face can feel overwhelming. There are many salespeople out there who will be happy to offer you an extremely limited set if options to ‘make it easier’ for you.
We feel that you should have as many options as is reasonable to choose from for your project. We also believe that it is our job to give you knowledgable advice to help you decide what you want for your home.

Replacement Windows: Pros (and one con)
Replacement Windows: Pros (and one con)

When you choose a replacement window, as opposed to a full-frame remodel of your window, you are getting many benefits. There is one potential down side that people sometimes don’t think about, and Paul wants to explain it to you here.

Partial Siding Replacement
Partial Siding Replacement

It’s not always necessary to replace ALL the siding on your house at once! Sometimes tackling one or two sides of your home can be enough.

5 questions to ask a contractor (before hiring!)
5 questions to ask a contractor (before hiring!)

When hiring a contractor to do any kind of work in your home, make sure you are working with a fully qualified professional. Here are some things you can ask to make sure the pro you are considering is a safe bet for your project.

Hiring the right contractor for your project
Hiring the right contractor for your project

We want you to feel confident about who you hire to take on big projects in your home. Here are some helpful tips when you are searching for a contractor for a home improvement project.

ProVia® windows: why 12 Penny loves them
ProVia® windows: why 12 Penny loves them

With so many windows out there to choose from, how do you decide? 12 Penny Exteriors has partnered with Window Depot USA to bring you one of the best vinyl windows on the market today: ProVia®. In this video Paul explains all the reasons why ProVia® is his top choice for a vinyl replacement window.

Flex Screen Technology
Flex Screen Technology

Flex screen technology is a great feature of today’s newer windows. Paul from 12 Penny Exteriors shows off how easy they are to install, remove, and blend into your modern window color options.

How do I know if I need new siding?
How do I know if I need new siding?

The siding on a house is like its skin – it not only looks good, but it protects the important structures underneath.   When it starts to fail due to exposure to sun, rain, and fluctuation in temperatures, it may be time for replacement.   Paul identifies some problems to look for on a house that’s due for new siding.

Spot the Rot
Spot the Rot

Sometimes the extent of damage to the exterior of your home can be hiding in plain sight – as was the case with this door frame. Snakes not pictured!!

Triple Pane vs Double Pane Technology
Triple Pane vs Double Pane Technology

12 Penny’s founder Paul guides us through the benefits of triple pane vs double pane windows. Energy efficiency is a major advantage, especially here in our New England climate. Sound insulation as well as condensation reduction are other benefits. 12 Penny can often upgrade double pane window products to triple pane at no extra cost when doing a replacement project in a home.

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(978) 654-0275