Can You Replace Windows in the Winter?

January 22, 2021 by Shannon Lindquist

The weather and season often determine which exterior home projects we tackle first. Think gutter cleaning in the spring and fall or ice dam removal in the winter.

When it comes to window replacement, don’t let the calendar hold you back. You can replace windows in the winter, opening up the cold weather months for this worthwhile home investment.

If you choose to replace windows in the winter, there are important factors to consider:

Cost

This might be the top reason to replace windows in the winter. It’s a slow season for most contractors and installers, so they’re more likely to offer special incentives or deals to fill their time. Plus, your project may be completed in a shorter window.

You’ll also more quickly enjoy savings on your heating bill by replacing windows in the winter instead of waiting for warmer temps. Most air leakage in homes comes from windows. If they’re in need of repair, you’ll have uncomfortable inside temps during cold weather stints and add more stress to your HVAC system. That can mean costly future repairs.

Best Windows for Cold Weather

Living in the upper Midwest, it’s important that you choose one of the best windows for colder climates. Look for window frames made of wood, vinyl, fiberglass or composite. When it comes to glass, always choose double- or triple-pane options that are coated to eliminate heat transfer.

The best replacement windows for cold climates have a high R-Value, which measures the resistance to heat transfer. The higher the number, the more efficient the window. Pay special attention to the energy performance ratings label when choosing the best windows for cold weather.

Who You Work With

Like any home project, the experience and end result depend largely on the company you choose. When you replace windows in the winter, it’s even more important to select a reputable company who has the expertise to handle a cold weather installation. You can choose the best replacement windows for cold climates, but if you don’t work with the right company, you risk damage to your home.

Trusted exterior remodelers like Asher follow a set process for replacing windows in the winter. This includes minimizing any heat loss by closing off each room that’s worked on and only removing one window at a time. They also follow extra steps to protect your home from dust and debris by using drop cloths and take time for extra cleaning after the install is complete.

So, can you replace windows in the winter? Yes! Look to Asher Lasting Exteriors to help you select and install the best windows for cold weather on your home.

When to Replace Your Front Door

December 30, 2020 by Shannon Lindquist

Doors last years, so they’re not typically the first home renovation project people think of. But just like everything else, eventually entry doors become worn or outdated. Though this affects curb appeal, it’s important to note that it creates a potential security risk for your family.

So, when do you know it’s time to replace your front door? First, ask these questions:

1. Is the door hard to open? The door could be sticking in the door jamb or the hinges could be off. If you can see light coming through along any of the edges, even when the door is shut, you’ll probably need to replace it.

2. Is there rust? Rust indicates moisture, which immediately translates to replacement. Steel doors are not galvanized on the inside, so rust comes from the inside out, and that can lead to rot or mold in the core or the frame.

3. Is it still drafty after weatherstripping or adding door sweeps? These are quick DIY solutions to help keep heat inside, but they need to be replaced periodically and may still allow drafts. If that’s the case, the permanent solution is a full front door replacement.

4. Are there visual issues like warping, cracking, or water damage? Doors get banged up regularly: people kick them when bringing in luggage or groceries; extreme temperature changes cause warping, stress fractures, or peeling paint; and water or insect damage creates soft spots that easily break apart.

Not only are these security issues, but they also reduce your energy efficiency and are vulnerable areas where even more damage can occur. Replace the door to avoid further issues.

5. Are there hardware issues? Squeaky hinges or a broken lock may be indications that the door is beginning to fail and needs to be replaced.

6. Do you just need something different? The cost of a new door is recouped by added curb appeal, but even if you’re not selling, the front door makes a first impression in the same way as roofing or landscaping. If your door mismatches the rest of the home, if you hate the color, or if you just want an upgrade, replace it.

If you’re still unsure, rather than trying to determine “how bad” the problems of your current door are, think about the potential benefits of a new door: more curb appeal, better security, higher energy efficiency, and an easier time entering or exiting.

Time to Replace a Door?

If you’ve decided to replace your entry door, don’t DIY. You’ll likely need to replace the door frame since it probably has the same issues as the door. In addition to having the correct tools and materials, professionals have enough experience and familiarity with the different manufacturers to do a replacement quickly and easily.

If you’re ready for an upgrade, Asher Lasting Exteriors offers architectural details, interesting hardware, and decorative glass options for a truly unique door that draws in viewers. Ask us for a free quote and our consultants will help you select the right door for your home!

Can You Replace a Single Pane of Glass in a Double Pane Window?

December 3, 2020 by Shannon Lindquist

Many people love the energy-efficient style of double-paned windows but aren’t sure what to do when something goes wrong. If you see a crack or notice fogging between the window panes, at least one pane isn’t performing as intended.

So, the question remains: is this something you can fix, or does it require a full window replacement?

We’re going to go right ahead and say that for double pane window repair, you should call in an expert and ideally look at a full window replacement.

There is a big reason for this:

Window Pane Construction

The problem with replacing a pane goes back to the reason people get double pane windows in the first place: the way they are constructed is complex so that they do a better job of keeping your home insulated.

They’re called “double pane” because there are two panes with a little space of air between them, which keeps the air inside your house from transferring outside. The panes are connected to the window sash, so it’s very difficult to pull one out without affecting the other or causing even more damage. And even if you do succeed in pulling out and replacing the pane without issue, the act of removing the pane will have made your window seal much weaker. This means that air and moisture will get in, fogging the window and reducing its efficiency.

Window repair experts like Asher can do as much as possible to avoid these issues, but depending on the severity of the problem or the strength of the seal, they may still recommend a full window replacement.

Sometimes, in the higher-end windows, that “little space of air” is instead filled with gas, which acts like insulation, lowering heating and cooling bills even more. If you have a broken windowpane, the gas has potentially already leaked out and you’ve already lost all the insulation properties you’d bought them for. In this case, a full replacement is immediately required.

Window Replacement Near Me

At Asher, we know everything there is to know about energy-efficient windows and the cost of window replacements, and we’ve seen our fair share of broken panes, cracks, and fogging.

Contact us for a free estimate either in-person or online to discuss your home and budget as well as our warranty options. We’re looking forward to helping you navigate this process!

Energy Efficient Windows and Siding for Your Home

November 23, 2020 by Shannon Lindquist

Conserving heat and energy is important when you live in the Midwest, as it’s not uncommon to experience extreme heat and humidity followed by freezing sleet and snow. So, what the best way to create an energy-efficient home that keeps your family cozy without hurting your wallet?

Below, we’ve listed a few tips to help you find an energy efficient solution for your home and budget.

How to Get the Most Energy-Efficient Windows

There are four factors to look at when choosing energy-efficient windows.

1) Frames: When determining which frame material is right for your home, consider not just the efficiency but also the looks, longevity, and upkeep.

For example, wood frames offer the best insulation and longevity, but they are vulnerable to rot and require more upkeep than other materials.
Vinyl, on the other hand, can be cheap, and while it doesn’t have the same insulation properties, it can still save you heating costs when paired with efficient glass.

2) Glass: The type of glass in your window determines much of its insulation properties. Double-paned windows are the most recommended, as they are highly efficient. While triple-paned glass sounds like it should work even better, the reality is that the increase in efficiency is not worth the added cost and may even lose visibility.

You may come across a lot of jargon when choosing energy-efficient glass, so here are some common terms:

When checking Energy Star glass, go for low ratings of U-value (resistance to heat loss) and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient – a.k.a. how much heat enters through the glass).
Low-E windows, which are coated with a thin metallic substance, are often recommended because they reflect rather than absorb heat.
“Argon-filled” or “krypton-filled” glass means there is gas between the panes, which is good because it slows the transfer of heat.

3) Design: There’s not really a “best” option when choosing between double-hung windows, picture windows, or casement windows, as they each require different upkeep and offer different insulation properties.

Pro tip: Choose whichever fits your budget and your aesthetic.

4) Installation: It doesn’t matter how efficient your windows are if they’re not installed correctly. Check for leaks and drafts to ensure proper seals, and ensure your contractor uses pre-installation weatherproofing rather than sealants or foam, as these options are not waterproof.

How to Choose Energy-Efficient Siding

While siding covers more of your home than windows, it’s much simpler to choose. Like window frames, the only real choice you have here is choosing a material and making sure it fits your aesthetic and budget.

Wood and stucco require a lot more upkeep and refurbishing than other materials, but they are fairly efficient. For an extreme-weather climate like Wisconsin, good options are usually composite (i.e., a mixture of wood, wax, and resin) or insulated vinyl. Both are reasonably priced and low maintenance.

For More Energy-Efficient Ideas, Contact the Experts at Asher

At Asher Lasting Exteriors, we offer steel siding that has special reflective properties and added insulation to make your home as efficient as possible. It’s thicker than vinyl and easy to clean.

Are you ready to get started on your energy-efficient home improvements? Contact us for a free estimate on energy-efficient windows and siding today!

Best Siding for Cold Weather

November 20, 2020 by Shannon Lindquist

When you live in Wisconsin or Minnesota, you know how rough the winters can be. You also know that using the right material for your home’s siding is essential to help withstand and protect your property from cold outdoor elements.

With so many different siding types available, it quickly becomes difficult to know which one is right for your home. To help you make the best decision, here’s what you should know about siding materials.

What are the Different Types of Siding?

While there are numerous materials for home exteriors, the four main categories of siding materials include:

Wood
Vinyl
Plastic
Alternatives

Wood is the choice for aesthetically minded people who want traditional charm, but it is expensive, harder to upkeep, and vulnerable to rot or insects.

Vinyl siding is cheap and easy to upkeep, so it’s the most common choice for homeowners. It also helps protect against insects and water, but it can crack or burn when subjected to extreme temperatures.

Plastic siding is thicker than vinyl, so it’s more expensive, but it’s also easy to maintain and does a much better job resembling wood for those who desire that type of aesthetic.

Alternative siding encompasses lesser-used materials, such as steel or fiber cement (composed of cement, sand, and cellulose). These options are typically more expensive than other materials, but they’re more durable and low maintenance, which in the long run could save you money.

What to Consider Before Choosing Siding

When looking at your siding options, remember that there is no one best house siding. Your ideal material will vary depending on your budget, aesthetics, and climate.

Which is the Best Siding for Cold Climates?

Let’s get back to our main topic: choosing the best material for cold weather climates.

Before making a decision, consider how energy-efficient the materials are and how well they handle extreme temperature changes. Materials like vinyl and plastic are very brittle, making it harder to withstand these types of dips in temperatures, while wood is porous and can get moisture inside it that could freeze and expand, causing future structural issues.

Our Recommended Siding for Cold-Climate Homes

Despite their higher cost, the benefits of alternative sidings like steel and fiber cement make them the best house siding for cold weather.

Steel siding is the longest-lasting material (up to 50 years!) and isn’t subject to the warping or cracking of traditional materials, even when subject to extreme temperatures. Because it’s non-porous, it doesn’t get moisture trapped inside it at any point, so the freeze/thaw combo doesn’t affect its integrity at all. It’s also energy-efficient and extremely durable.

Fiber cement has similar benefits, though it’s slightly harder to install, less energy efficient, and easier to crack. It has the benefits of cement (e.g., fireproof, no insect damage, no rotting), but if it’s improperly installed, it’s more prone to water issues.

Other Considerations

Whatever siding you choose; you’ll want to ensure that it includes insulation or that you can add it if it doesn’t. This way, your home stays cozy and efficient even during the extreme seasons we have come to expect.

At Asher Lasting Exteriors, we’re committed to offering the highest quality skill, experience, and service, as we perform work on your home. If you’re interested in looking into steel siding as an option for your upper Midwest home, contact us for a free estimate today!