The Ultimate Guide To Types Of Exterior Doors For Your Home

March 20, 2023 by Shannon Lindquist

Choosing the right types of exterior doors for your home can be overwhelming. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide a concise summary of entry, patio, and storm doors to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior doors are the first things someone goes through into your home. When done well, they provide security, curb appeal, and energy efficiency opportunities that can truly boost the value of your home. These doors come in a variety of forms, styles, and functionalities. Below, we’ll provide an overview of the primary types of exterior doors and their main features as well as some important considerations to keep in mind as you explore your options.

Looking for home improvement ideas? Check out the 5 most impactful ways to update the front of your house.

3 Main Types Of Exterior Doors

Exterior doors are essential for accessing your home, but there are several types to consider. The most prevalent types of doors for homes are entry, patio, and storm doors. Entry and storm doors are usually located at the main entrance of a home, while patio doors tend to be wider and lead to an outdoor recreation area such as a deck or patio. It’s important to note that these door types have various materials and styles to choose from, which should be considered when making a selection.

Front Door
Patio Door
Storm Door

Different Types Of Front Doors

A front door is one of the first things you and your guests will see when entering the home. While clearly a functional part of your home, good-looking exterior front door styles can help create an excellent first impression and improve your home’s overall curb appeal. These entry door types mix both aesthetics and durability, and the most common types of main entrance doors you’ll find include:

Fiberglass Entry Doors
Steel Entry Doors

Both types of entrance doors follow a uniform size. The standard front door size is typically 80 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 1.75 inches thick. While most front door styles will fit this description, you can also find variations in the standard exterior door size. Most commonly, the variation in front door types is a door width of 30 or 32 inches.

Fiberglass Entry Door

A top option for homeowners, fiberglass doors are cost-effective, scratch-resistant, energy-efficient, and low maintenance. There is a variety of different front door styles that you can choose from. Fiberglass styles of entry doors can have appealing textures and finishes that can mimic the look of a solid wood door. They can also allow for designs that incorporate decorative glass paneling or similar elements.

Steel Entry Door

Are you looking for a little additional security? Steel entry doors, while often used for commercial properties, are another popular type of entry door option. Home door types like this are incredibly sturdy and secure options with a variety of colors and styles to fit the look of your home. Most steel doors have a smooth finish or texture, though some wood grain styles are available.

Looking to compare entry door options? Start with Fiberglass vs. Steel Doors: Which Is Best for You?

Types Of Patio Doors

Unlike entryway doors, patio doors are a kind of door entrance that isn’t typically the primary entrance into your home. These large, stylish doors often lead to decks, patios, or pool areas. Patio doors are bigger – roughly double the width of a standard front door at a minimum – and have a few common styles that impact their look and functionality. Those styles include:

Sliding Glass Patio Door
Sliding French Patio Door
French Hinged Patio Door

Sliding Glass Patio Door

Sliding glass patio doors are essentially two glass door panes that sit on a track that allows one or both panes to be slid open. Outside door styles like this are an excellent option for those with space constraints, as there is no need to account for the opening swing radius of a hinged door.

While your first thought might be of a relatively simple-looking pair of sliding door panels, these sliding glass patio doors do have some customization options available to ensure they match the look and feel of your home. The exterior door options include the type of glass used, the color of the framing elements, the style of the handles, and the style of grille or pattern used.

Sliding French Patio Door

A variation of the sliding patio door, sliding French patio doors maintain much of the traditional aesthetic of a hinged patio door. However, it pairs with the space-saving ability of a sliding track door. These types of outdoor doors typically feature handles in the center with doors that spread outward along the track when opened. This style provides a larger opening than sliding glass patio doors. Because of this, sliding French patio doors require a wider space for installation.

Like sliding patio doors, these doors offer customization options (color, hardware, grille, framing, etc.) to fit the look of your home best.

French Hinged Patio Door

French hinged patio doors provide an aesthetically pleasing, traditional option for your patio entryway. These doors are typically the width of two panels (like a patio sliding door) but feature doors that open on a hinge. This type of door can have both door panels open from the middle out or have a single hinged panel.

Keep in mind that a hinged patio door will require some additional space for the door to open, either inside of your home or outside. While this may require additional space, they’re a visually appealing option that you can also deadbolt lock for additional security. Another factor to keep in mind with hinged patio doors is the direction they open. Inward-opening doors will impede on your indoor space, while outward-opening doors may face challenges with snow or other objects blocking their path.

Find the right exterior door manufacturer for different types of exterior doors by checking out our best exterior door brands, materials, and features guide.

Storm Doors

Storm doors are a type of residential door that fits over your exterior entry door. These doors are used to help protect your primary exterior door from the elements and nasty weather. They also have the benefit of providing an extra layer of insulation for your entryway–as well as an extra layer of security, as they typically have their own separate locking mechanism.

These doors use tempered glass and come in a variety of styles in finishes, ranging from minimalist looks that aim to highlight the beauty of your primary entry door to more ornate and elaborate options.

What To Consider Before Choosing An Exterior Door

Now that you know more about the types of exterior door styles and sizes available to you, you’ll need to weigh some important considerations before finalizing designs and making a purchase. Key factors you’ll want to weigh include:

Door Size: While typically not an issue for standard entryway doors beyond the occasional variance in width, the physical space in your home for patio door varieties is an important factor to keep in mind. Sliding French patio doors are typically the widest option, while French hinged and contemporary sliding patio doors are smaller. Before purchasing, double-check all measurements and specifications to ensure the door you have in mind will fit.
Design & Features: Aesthetic features like texture, patterns, and accompanying hardware are important to keep in mind when choosing a door. Additionally, security factors like the ability to deadbolt and materials used should be weighed. For patio doors, it’s also important to consider how your door will open and how it will work with your space.
Brand: New entryway doors are an investment into your home, so it’s important to stick with a high-quality manufacturer like ProVia™ or Anderson®. These manufacturers use top-quality materials and offer warranties that can provide additional peace of mind.

In Western Wisconsin, Asher Has Your Door Replacement Solutions

Upgrading your entryway doors (or starting anew with a high-quality option) is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal, security, and energy efficiency. Finding the perfect exterior door types for your home will take some careful consideration, with factors like size, cost, function, and aesthetics all coming into play. Now that you know more about the main types of residential exterior doors and the differences between entry, patio, and storm doors, you can confidently start exploring the door options available to you at Asher Lasting Exteriors.

Of course, entry door installation is no small matter, but the pros at Asher can help guide you. If you’re ready to take the next step in upgrading your entryways, book a free consultation today to get started.

Gutter Helmet VS Leaf Guard: Which Is Best For You?

February 28, 2023 by Shannon Lindquist

Gutter cleaning is never fun, but gutter protection solutions like Gutter Helmet and Leaf Guard make it easier to keep your home protected. But how do you know which is best for you? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at a common comparison of Gutter Helmet vs LeafGuard.

While both options will certainly be an improvement over gutters with zero protection, adding gutter protection is a significant investment that’s worth careful consideration. We’re here to guide you with a comparison of gutter guard options, answering the question, “Which is better: gutter helmet or leaf guard?”

On the fence about gutter guards? Check out “Are Gutter Guards Worth It? A Guide to Gutter Protection”

What Is A Gutter Guard?

Generally speaking, a gutter guard is an attachment or device that aims to prevent leaves, sticks, and other debris from accumulating in your home’s gutter system. These guards can come in a variety of formats. Some designs are overhanging hoods that rely on surface tension to bring water in and keep debris out. Others use screens or micro-mesh screen systems to filter small debris from gutters.

Gutter Guard Benefits

While not the solution to every gutter-related issue, installing a gutter guard system and keeping your gutters free-flowing and clear of clogs can come with some significant benefits. This includes:

Minimizing Maintenance: It’s recommended you clean guardless gutters at least twice yearly to ensure all accumulated debris is cleared. Gutter guards can greatly reduce or eliminate that need, which is welcoming news for anyone who dreads climbing ladders.

Limiting Rust and Corrosion: Gutters with blockages are likely to have pooling or standing water that can accelerate the rusting and corrosion of metal gutters.

Mold and Water Damage Prevention: Blocked gutters can and will lead to rainwater flowing into places on your home that are not equipped to handle it. This presents a major risk for mold and other costly water-related damages.

Pest Prevention: Bugs, mice, and other critters tend to hole up in and around blockages, and gutter failure-related damage can provide additional unwanted entry points.

Ice Dam Prevention: As winter temperatures fluctuate in colder climates, additional debris and blockages can make the proper flow of melting snow in your gutters impossible without the help of a heated gutter guard. This can lead to large and potentially damaging ice blockages.

Gutter Helmet Review: The Best Gutter Guard For Your Home

“Chris and Nick installed gutters and Gutter Helmet on our home in Chetek. They provided great attention to detail and provided an excellent result. They worked very carefully and made sure it was done correctly. They answered all my questions and are easy to work with. I would welcome them on any project. We are very satisfied with the project and would recommend this team for future work. Thanks!”

John, Satisfied Customer of Asher Lasting Exteriors

Gutter Guard Drawbacks

Gutter guard systems are not without drawbacks. While some of these drawbacks may depend heavily on the design, there are a few potential issues to keep in mind:

Price: Quality gutter guard systems will require a substantial financial investment that may not be feasible for all budgets.
Screen/Mesh Failures: Some screen or mesh-based guards have openings that still allow for bits of debris to accumulate and eventually cause issues.
Overconfidence: While a quality gutter guard system will drastically reduce your need for gutter maintenance, it’s still a good idea to check your gutters to ensure water is flowing properly.
Compatibility with Surrounding Vegetation: There’s a big difference between a pine needle and a maple leaf, and some systems may be better equipped to handle one or the other.

Which gutter guard is best for you? Check out our article on the 3 Best Types of Gutter Guards.

What Is A Leaf Guard?

LeafGuard is a brand of gutter guard that uses an overhang design that relies on surface tension to keep water flowing into your gutter and keep debris out. This system is made from aluminum and uses a durable one-piece design.

LeafGuard Benefits

LeafGuard is a quality gutter guard option with several benefits that go beyond the general benefits of a gutter guard outlined above. Some of the highlights include:

Shield/Overhang Design: Completely covers your gutters with no potential screen or mesh failure.
Customizable: LeafGuard systems can be built to match the exact specifications of your gutters.
Sturdy Design: A one-piece design reduces the number of potential installation failure points. Materials are thick and well-supported.
Guaranteed to Never Clog: LeafGuard manufacturer claims their system will never clog for as long as you own the home.

LeafGuard Drawbacks

While a quality product, LeafGuard gutter protection systems do have some potential drawbacks you should be aware of:

All-in-one System: While LeafGuard’s all-in-one system eliminates compatibility issues, it also requires you to replace your existing gutter system, as it can’t just be added on.
Installation: While not always applicable, the LeafGuard system uses additional mounting supports that may require professional installation.
Custom Fitting, Custom Costs: LeafGuard’s systems are built to fit your home’s exact specifications, which can add to the overall cost.
Availability: These built-to-order systems may not be as readily available for timely projects.

Support matters for your gutters. Learn more about the seven potential gutter hanger types for your home.

Leaf Guard VS Gutter Helmet

When comparing gutter guard systems, the Gutter Helmet vs. LeafGuard debate is hard to avoid. There’s a lot to like about these seemingly-similar systems, but it can help to break down their similarities and differences head-to-head in more detail.

Leaf Guard VS Gutter Helmet: Similarities

There’s a fair amount of overlap, so let’s start with what these two premium gutter guard systems have in common:

Overhang/Surface Tension Designs: Both systems’ designs use surface tension to wick away debris while also collecting rainwater for proper routing and drainage.

Quality: Gutter Helmet and LeafGuard both use aesthetically pleasing, high-quality components that are built to last.

Price: While the details of the Gutter Helmet’s cost and LeafGuard’s price will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, the angle of your roof, and ease of access, both the leaf filter vs gutter helmet price will come with a higher-end price point.

Maintenance: LeafGuard and Gutter Helmet systems are low maintenance and will drastically reduce your need for overall gutter maintenance.

Leaf Guard VS Gutter Helmet: Differences

Despite their similarities, Gutter Helmet and LeafGuard systems do have some small but important distinctions to keep in mind before making a purchase.

Installation: LeafGuard systems require supports in two-foot intervals. While that may provide peace of mind for stability, this requirement can also raise installation costs for some homes.

Custom-fitting: LeafGuard’s built-to-order approach minimizes seams, but this can also have a negative impact on the availability of materials.

Existing Gutter Compatibility: Gutter Helmet systems are able to be attached to your home’s existing gutter components, while LeafGuard’s all-in-one system does not offer this compatibility.

Gutter Helmet VS LeafGuard: Which To Choose?

So which is better: a gutter helmet or a leaf filter? Choosing a gutter guard system isn’t an easy decision. Both Gutter Helmet and LeafGuard products can be seen as worthwhile investments into your property as well as your peace of mind. That being said, some considerations tend to make Gutter Helmet the top option for gutter protection.

Gutter Helmet’s compatibility with existing gutter systems eliminates the need to remove a perfectly fine (aside from the potential to clog) established system. If you’ve recently purchased gutters for your home, removing them for LeafGuard’s all-in-one approach can feel a bit like throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

Additionally, the installation process for Gutter Helmet tends to win out. Gutter Helmet’s approved technicians can quickly and securely install this system without the potentially long waits for custom-built components. Additionally, the Gutter Helmet has heavy-duty mounting brackets that will keep it secure for years to come.

Asher Can Install Your New Gutter Helmet For Gutter Protection

Choosing the right gutter guard system for your home requires some careful consideration before making a purchase. Now that you know more about the similarities and differences between a Gutter Helmet vs Leaf Guard gutter protection system, it’s time to give your ladder a break and talk to a professional at Asher Lasting Exteriors.

Our knowledgeable staff can help walk you through the estimate and installation process with a free consultation so you’ll have a clear understanding of the cost of a Gutter Helmet and installation timelines. Visit the Gutter Helmet page to learn more about the product and book your free consultation.

10 Ways On How To Get More Natural Light In A Room

February 10, 2023 by Shannon Lindquist

Learning how to get more natural light in a room is the key to boosting your mood, productivity, and vision, among others. Discover the secret to unlocking the numerous benefits of using natural light in your home.

Break free from the dependency on artificial lighting, and take control of your energy costs. By investing in full-frame window replacements, you can stop letting the daylight go to waste. Simply follow these steps on how to bring more natural light into your home and energy efficiency isn’t the only benefit you’ll see.

Contact our experts to see how a simple window replacement can boost the lighting in your home.

Benefits of Increasing Natural Lighting In Your Home

Aside from the increase in energy efficiency, using natural light instead of artificial light has a number of positive effects on your health. Waking up to the sunlight pouring through a window is proven to give you a boost of energy in the morning. Along with the vitamin D it provides comes a natural response in your body that is shown to lift your mood.

Sunlight can also reduce the level of fatigue you feel when forced to look at a computer screen all day. With all these benefits, it’s worth taking the time to figure out how to bring more sunlight into a room.

Longer Productive Hours: People have more energy to work when exposed to natural light instead of working under artificial ones. There are plenty of studies to back it up. You’ll have more energy to do your chores, finish work, and spend time with your loved ones. It simply goes to show how using daylight as a primary light source could enhance productivity for you and your entire family.
Mood Lifter: When you allow sunlight to stream freely through your windows, you’ll instantly feel better and calmer. That’s because a positive mood is often associated with great daylighting. It helps aid depression, anxiety, and even laziness that homeowners can feel in a dim home. This is all thanks to a happy hormone called serotonin, which is stimulated by sunlight.
Gain Better Vision: Our smartphones and fluorescent lights have the tendency to cause eye strain, which can cause frequent headaches, eye soreness, and fatigue. You can avoid all these unwanted eye issues by using natural room lighting when reading books, finishing household chores, and reducing the use of artificial lighting. The use of daylight in everyday activities also helps the eye produce dopamine, which is essential in healthy eye development.

How To Bring More Natural Light Into Your Home

There are several ways to boost the natural light in homes. Some are as obvious as installing more windows, either with skylights or new combination windows. At the same time, other methods require some creativity, like decorating with reflective surfaces and including lighter colors in a space. Start with one and keep trying new techniques until your home is lit up from sunrise to sunset. Here are our top ten tips on how to get more natural light into a room:

Add Or Replace Windows
Window Cleaning & Maintenance
Replace Curtains With Sheer Curtains
Paint Walls With Light Colors
Install Skylights
Add or Replace Patio Doors
Decorate With Mirrors
Incorporate Reflective Surfaces
Remove Objects Blocking Natural Light
Create A “Sunlight Room”

Add Or Replace Windows

The first step on how to get more light in a room should be to ensure you have adequate windows. The following tips for spreading light around a room won’t do much good if the sunlight doesn’t have an entry point. Adding or replacing windows with updated designs can influence your interior design in a major way.

Beyond adding natural light, windows can bring in the views around you and act as a design element unto themselves. Replacement windows are a great way to update your home as they combine both form and functionality through lighting, ventilation, and energy efficiency.

Asher’s Replacement Windows

Asher Lasting Exteriors can help you make the most out of your windows through our replacement windows services. We are proud to be an installer and distributor of Renewal by Andersen windows, one of the top-quality window choices for residential homes. Their windows have such a sturdy material of Fibrex that allows a narrower frame, thus producing more glass area for more natural light!

Check out the latest in modern window designs to see how our window replacements can go beyond adding light to improve your home’s interior design.

Window Cleaning & Maintenance

Here is a quick DIY task on how to add natural light to a room that takes nothing but time and a bit of elbow grease. It can be hard to tell when we need to clean the windows because we’re always looking through them and not at them.

The majority of homeowners only clean their windows once or twice a year, but if you’re dealing with frequent storms, you may want to increase that number. Cleaning your windows and window screens is the most effective way to increase the amount of natural light your house takes in.

Dealing with stubborn windows that won’t come clean? It may be time for a window replacement from the experts at Asher.

Replace Curtains With Sheer Curtains

Curtains are a great way to accent your windows and tie them into the home decor you have established. However, if your curtains are too heavy or dark in color, they can limit the amount of natural light your window lets in.

Replacing your heavy curtains with sheer curtains is the best way to maintain your privacy while still letting light shine into your rooms. Utilizing a sheer drapery and slatted blinds will give you the maximum control over your home’s lighting while still keeping the original aesthetic.

Paint Walls With Light Colors

Whether you learned it in science or art class, the fact remains the same, lighter colors reflect light better than darker ones. This means the same four-windowed room painted dark blue will look dimmer than if it were painted light gray.

The same can be said of if you paint the ceiling a dark color. Most homeowners choose to do a few shades lighter than the walls to make the room seem taller and full of light. You can take the principle further by painting with satin or semi-gloss paint to reflect the incoming light better.

Install Skylights

The ideal natural light window is the one that faces the sun most of the time, a skylight. They are most commonly installed in high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and bathrooms. With a ton of shapes and sizes to choose from, you can create some truly unique features in any home. However, since installing them involves cutting a hole in your roof, we recommend hiring a professional to get the job done right.

Add or Replace Patio Doors

Replacing old doors in your home is a great way to boost your energy efficiency, security, and natural light. Whether it’s fitting your front entrance door with a small window accent or replacing your patio door with a sliding glass door, both can greatly improve your lighting.

For homes without patio doors, there may be an option to open a wall to a small patio or deck area. It’s a large project to undertake but one that will improve your quality of life and the value of your home for years to come.

Asher’s Patio Doors

Replacing your doors is one home improvement task with a strong return on investment. Asher is here to help you find the best exterior doors to battle the cold weather, improve security, and add more natural light to the home. Explore the many options for patio doors on our website or by visiting our showroom.

Decorate With Mirrors

It’s a trick used in restaurants across the world, but utilizing mirrors not only makes your room feel bigger but also gives a lot of natural light. Decorative mirrors are great for entryways and bedrooms where people are often putting the finishing touches on an outfit before leaving the house.

Few consider how they could be used throughout the rest of the home, such as in photo frames, light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and other highly reflective surfaces. Each tiny surface comes together to bounce the light around your home and make your space feel brighter.

Incorporate Reflective Surfaces

Similar to the light color pallet used to brighten your walls, your tile flooring and countertops are great places to utilize light paint colors for reflection. Wood, ceramic, or stone floors can be polished regularly to get the most out of your home’s natural lighting. Kitchen and bathroom backsplashes are also ideal for high gloss ceramics like the popular subway tiles in modern home designs.

Ask our experts how to bring more light into a room for the best recommendations on window design in the area.

Remove Objects Blocking Natural Light

Landscaping is a great way to boost your curb appeal, but the time comes when the overgrown trees and bushes start to diminish the light entering your home. It’s another great opportunity for a DIY solution on how to increase natural light in a room.

Grab your gardening shears and a hedge trimmer to tame the bushes and reclaim your sunlight. If you have trees that seem too overbearing, it may be time to replace them with lower-growth perennials or shrubs to keep the light pouring in.

Create A “Sunlight Room”

A sunlight room, or sunroom, is an open room with natural light pouring in from all angles. It can be a large family room or a simple reading nook as long as the purpose is to gather as much natural sunlight as possible. Decorate it with lots of plants or unique furniture to make the room as relaxing as possible. Let your imagination run wild, or take a page out of these modern sunroom ideas to create your ideal home oasis.

Replace Your Windows With Asher Lasting Exteriors

We hope that these ten tips on improving your home’s natural lighting have given you some guidance on how to get more natural light into your home. Whether you’re renovating or starting from scratch, our experts are here to help every step of the way. Contact us with any questions you may have about windows, shades, awnings, patio doors, or any questions you might ask a contractor.

Since 1974, our family-owned company has worked with thousands of satisfied customers and has become one of the Eau Claire area’s top choices for homeowners seeking exterior home improvements. For more expert home improvement tips and advice, explore our blog, or come on down to the showroom to see how quality windows can truly change your living space.

What Is An Awning? 6 Types Of House Awnings

February 3, 2023 by Shannon Lindquist

Installing an awning for your home can help you block the sun, protect your furniture, and enjoy the great outdoors. But just what is an awning? This guide will help explain what a home awning is, along with the various types of awnings you can install.

A retractable awning can be a great addition to your home, but knowing what type or material you need can be confusing. Asher Lasting Exterior will work with you every step of the way to make sure you get the best quality Sunesta awning for your home.

A house awning can help you create a cohesive and functional backyard space to spend time with family and friends.

What’s An Awning?

An awning is a covering commonly made of fabric or aluminum that extends over an outdoor area to provide extra shade and space for homeowners or businesses. These are great for people who want to provide added outdoor space while decreasing any heat or solar damage.

However, there are multiple factors you need to consider before installing one for your own home. Each awning offers specific features that may impact your decision on what kind you may want to invest in. Some key features are that they are:

Attached to the outside of a building, generally near a window or a door
Either retractable or fixed. Retractable ones are more common and beneficial for homeowners
Made of an acrylic or synthetic fabric, aluminum, or mesh
Can be decorative, functional, or both

What Are Awnings Made Of?

The material often depends on its primary function. If an awning is going to serve a mainly aesthetic purpose, it won’t have to be as sturdy as ones that are made to protect people or buildings from the elements, such as the awnings many businesses use.

But what are awnings most commonly made of? Some of the most popular materials include:

Vinyl
Polyester
Acrylic fabric
Cotton
Aluminum

Each material offers varying benefits, but it’s especially important to make sure that your house awning is retractable. This can help ensure that it will last a long time and will also help protect it from the elements. Sunesta’s retractable awnings and solar screens are high quality and fully functional for whatever your needs may be.

Types of House Awnings

What is an awning on a house? There are various types, each of which offers its own pros and cons depending on your needs.

First, however, it’s imperative to consider a few factors when choosing an awning for your home. The most important aspects to consider are:

Cost: For retractable awnings, the most notable features of their cost are their size and if you’d prefer a manual or motorized operation.
Angle: The direction your outdoor area is facing, along with how large the area is, will determine the angle of awning necessary.
Material: Different materials offer varying benefits. For example, aluminum is more durable but often retains heat more than vinyl, which is more light and flexible than aluminum.
Style: The style you choose is dependent on how you want the fabric or space to look.

After you have a better sense of what your needs are, you can then look into the type you need. The most common house awnings are:

Retractable awnings
Stationary awnings
Freestanding awnings
Vertical Drop awnings
Window awnings
Door awnings

Retractable Awning

These types of awnings are generally the most versatile. They allow for no, partial, or full coverage based on how far they are extended. These are often the most popular for outdoor patios and decks, as homeowners are able to decide how much shade or protection they want. Retractable awnings also tend to last the longest, as they can be hidden away if the weather gets harsh.

Sunesta Retractable Awning

Sunesta’s custom-made and high-quality retractable awnings ensure that homeowners can enjoy their outdoor space in the warmer months while also offering the benefit of being stowed away when the Wisconsin snow gets to be too much in the winter.

Stationary Awnings

Stationary awnings are often much more physically durable than retractable, as they are commonly made of aluminum or metal. These are most often found outside of businesses and offer added protection from the elements year-round. Stationary awnings, while lacking in versatility and design, can last for many years without much maintenance.

Freestanding Awnings

Freestanding awnings, as the name suggests, are not mounted to a wall like other awnings are. These are great for homeowners or businesses who want to extend their entertaining or backyard space but don’t have an area to affix a more permanent awning to. While these are more versatile and generally cheaper, they also often require more upkeep.

Vertical Drop Awnings

These types of awnings are a smart way to offer added protection from the sun’s harsh rays for areas that may be exposed to direct sunlight on a regular basis. With a touch of a button, these shades can drop down to cover the windows during the harsh midday sun without compromising too much of the view.

Sunesta’s solar screens are a great example, as they can be extended when the sun may be too direct. Solar screens will help protect your patio furniture from fading, as well as offer imperative protection from UV rays.

Sunesta’s solar screens are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, as they offer added UV and sun protection to any deck or patio.

Window Awnings

Window awnings are meant only to cover a small area in front of a window. They provide added protection against the sun for the area just inside the window, as this space can quickly heat up due to the sun’s rays. These are often curved in order to protect the outdoor area from rain as well.

Door Awnings

Similar to window awnings, door awnings are smaller, curved, and generally only extend over the threshold of the door. They also can offer added style or decoration to the front of any business or home. As they are fixed, they will generally be made of either metal or the same material as the building they are attached to.

Other Types of Awnings

While the awnings listed above are some of the most common, there are a few others to be aware of as well, some of which may also be retractable. These include:

Porch
Canopy
Patio cover systems
Deck
Pergola
Conservatory

Explore Asher’s Sunesta Retractable Awning Selection

No matter if you’re looking to enjoy some extra shade, protect yourself or your furnishings from the sun, or just simply want to help your energy bill, investing in an Asher Sunesta retractable awning is one of the best decisions you can make for your home. Our awnings and solar screens help promote outdoor, healthy living and can help you create the patio or deck space you’ve been dreaming of.

Our awnings come in any style or color you may need, as they are fully customized to your space’s needs. We also provide wind tests to make sure they’ll stand the test of time. Asher Lasting Exteriors was founded on the principles of customer satisfaction, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. We are here to answer any questions you may have about what type of awning would be best suited to your needs, so reach out to us today.

7 Considerations Around Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows

February 2, 2023 by Shannon Lindquist

Single-hung and double-hung are two of the most popular window choices in modern home design. Learn about the pros and cons of single-hung vs. double-hung windows to find the perfect one for your space.

Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, your window choices will affect your ventilation, energy efficiency, and longevity. Knowing the difference in cost, efficiency, and functionality between single-hung vs. double-hung windows will make the decision clear and simple.

When it comes time to replace your windows, let Asher’s experts help you find the best double-hung or other styles of windows available.

What Is A Single-Hung Window?

A single-hung window is defined by an operable lower window operable sash that moves up and down and a fixed upper window. Ventilation is carried through the bottom half only in this window style, which makes them ideal for first-floor windows since you aren’t looking for a place for heat to escape.

Single-hung ones have also been around longer than double-hung ones, lending them a vintage look and feel. They also have a reduced manufacturing cost, making them a much more common sight in most homes.

What Is A Double-Hung Window?

Double-hung windows look nearly identical to single-hung windows, but the upper window sash is able to slide up and down. This opens up your options for ventilation to include the bottom half, the top half, or both halves. Upper window ventilation is ideal for letting the heat escape from your home’s upper floors and circulating the air in bathrooms to prevent mildew.

There are some styles of double-hung windows with additional features that allow the windows to tilt, acting as an awning in the rain and allowing for better ventilation. Recently, this style has been gaining popularity as it offers more functionality and is much easier to clean.

What Is The Difference Between Single And Double-Hung Windows?

The critical difference between single and double-hung windows lies in the movement of the upper sash. Depending on where the window is placed, this movement can be a great advantage or no advantage whatsoever. Behind the sink, for example, is an excellent place for a single-hung window, while a double hung one would be a rather frivolous addition because the upper sash would be inaccessible. Similar to the difference between casement and double-hung windows, you’ll soon find out that each window has its place, as well as its pros and cons.

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7 Considerations When Choosing Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows

Deciding between double-hung vs single-hung can be a surprisingly difficult decision to make. Windows last, on average, between 15 to 20 years, so it’s worth taking your time to consider all your options before you decide. The key deciding factors to consider include cost, cleaning, ventilation, accessibility, efficiency, installation, and aesthetic preferences. Each type of window is sure to be an improvement over any outdated window you may currently have, so there are no bad choices when it comes to any window replacements.

Window Cost
Cleaning Windows
Window Ventilation
Accessibility
Window Efficiency
Installation
Aesthetic

Window Cost

On average, single-hung windows are about 10% to 20% less expensive than double-hung windows, varying in cost between $500 to $1,200 or more, depending on the material choices. This may seem negligible if you’re replacing one or two windows, but the cost can add up if you’re doing a total home window replacement. To help curb costs, single-hung windows are often used on the lowest floors to bring in cool air, while double-hung ones are used on the upper floors to let the rising hot air escape out the upper sash.

Cleaning Windows

Cleaning single-hung windows requires outside access to reach the upper sashes, and if they’re on an upper floor, you may want to hire a professional. The average homeowner will typically clean their windows 2 or 3 times a year, which adds up over their 20-year lifespan.

Double-hung windows have made cleaning a lot easier and a task you can complete from inside the home. With the added tilt features, cleaning is so easy that you might find yourself doing it fairly regularly to get those picture-perfect views all year long on the interior and exterior.

Window Ventilation

Double-hung windows are made for increased ventilation, with cold air coming in the bottom sashes and hot air escaping out the top. This technique works for any floor in the house but will be most noticeable on the top floor, where the heat rises and gets trapped in the summer months. Single-hung windows are the economical solution for pulling in cold air on your lowest floors. They are best used for ventilating basements, garages, and outdoor sheds. However, we recommend double-hung ones for any top-floor or bathroom windows.

Accessibility

How does a double-hung window work when it’s nestled behind the sink and the upper sash is just out of reach? There are times when it would be nice to have extra ventilation in the kitchen, like when you forgot you put a pizza in the oven an hour ago, but without access to the top window, it won’t be of much benefit. When you’re deciding what style of windows to install in each room, it’s important to consider the access you will have to open and close them.

Window Efficiency

Most types of single-hung windows are considered to be the most energy efficient because they come with fewer moving parts and multi-chambered windows. When looking for efficient types of double-hung windows, consider window frames made of fiberglass or vinyl, often available with added insulating foam. Wood is another popular frame choice because it is a natural insulator from the cold.

Installation

Single-hung windows come with fewer moving parts, making them easier to install saving on labor and manufacturing costs. In addition to a higher upfront cost, double-hung windows have a more complex installation that doesn’t lend itself to DIY projects as readily. While most manufacturers offer warranties, getting your windows professionally installed is essential to get the most out of their longevity.

Aesthetic

Both single-hung and double-hung windows compliment a home with a more traditional aesthetic. Due to the long history of these window styles, you can find them in many colonial, craftsman, or Victorian home designs. They can be fitted with a decorative lattice window inlay or left clean and open for a more sleek and modern appearance.

Discover the unique ways single and double-hung windows can be used in combination windows from Asher.

Recommended Places To Use Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows

What are single-hung windows made for if double-hung windows can do the same with added venting options? There is no reason you can’t put double-hung windows in every room, but there are times when it simply offers no additional benefit.

The purpose of double-hung windows is to allow hot air to escape out the top sash, but lower floors seldom get hot enough to require that kind of venting. There are also areas where the upper sash would be inaccessible, such as behind a sink or workbench. We recommend single-hung windows for these areas because of their lower cost and maintenance.

Single-Hung Window

Basements
Garage/Shed
Behind the Sink

Double-Hung Window

Top Floors
Bathrooms
Single Level Homes

Can You Put A Single-Hung And Double-Hung Window In The Same Space?

The above list of recommended spaces for single-hung vs double-hung windows is more of a guideline than a rulebook. There is no reason you can’t incorporate double-hung windows in your garage or complete a single-level home with a mix of single and double-hung windows. As long as you have adequate ventilation in your home, the layout of your windows is up to you, and the more creative you can be with your window combinations, the better off you’ll be.

Explore Asher’s Selection Of Double-Hung Windows

Deciding between single-hung vs double-hung windows can be a difficult choice to make. It may depend on the room you’re placing the window in, the budget you’re working with, and the ventilation you’re hoping to get out of it. With so many factors at play, it can feel overwhelming, but that’s where the experts at Asher really shine.

We’re here to help every step of the way with free consultations and expert guidance on finding the right windows for your home. Don’t hesitate to contact our team of professionals at Asher for all of your replacement window needs. Check out our blog for more window replacement tips and advice, or stop by the showroom for a first-hand look at the newest lineup of professional-grade windows.