Ask the Experts: What Exactly Is a Standard Size Window?

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When it’s time to start the process of buying new or replacement windows, size is one of the first things to consider. While windows come in all dimensions, there’s a lot of talk about “standard size” windows. But just how standard are they really? We sat down with Ann Gregory, Founding Member and Owner of Door Store and Windows, and here’s what she had to say…

How big is a standard size window?

As architectural design and manufacturing processes have evolved over the years, so has the definition of the standard size window. While there are certainly sizes considered common to the industry, the standard still varies depending on the manufacturer, product line, window type, and other features. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as buying a standard size window and popping it in the opening. Plus, if you’re thinking about purchasing standard size windows for an older home, today’s sizes may not even apply. For example, if your house is older than the 1960s, the windows could likely have been custom built and assembled on site. That could mean every window is a slightly different size, since they were not made with consistency of a modern-day window manufacturer.

This house was built in the early 1900’s. There are two windows on the front of the house – one on each side of the 2nd story dormer. They are supposed to be symmetrical, but while their sizes are similar they are not the same. Both have been replaced sometime in the past.

Should homeowners be wary of “standard size windows”?

Yes, it’s important not to assume that a standard size is going to fit your needs. Every house is different in terms of fluctuations in the construction process and how the windows were originally installed. Some builders use standard sizes as a general guideline, but make adjustments during the building process. Not to mention changes and shifts in the home’s foundation can alter the dimensions of window openings. But more than that, custom windows can offer improved aesthetics and even energy efficiency. Custom sizes and styles allow you to better match your home’s look and layout.

The existing window on the left side of the dormer fits pretty well. Here you see the inside and outside of the window.

Are there other drawbacks to using standard windows in a custom-size opening?

The most common issue is with using smaller standard size windows in larger custom size openings. This typically makes the windows look downsized. With less glass and more framing, the façade of your home will look different to the casual observer because the glass looks like it is set in a big picture frame. The amount of sunlight let into the home is also less due to the smaller window opening. Custom-sized windows can provide a better look as they’re constructed to exactly fit each opening.

These photos show the existing window on the right side of the dormer is obviously undersized. Door Store and Windows will soon be replacing both windows plus the dormer windows. It will be quite the transformation!

So as you can see, though the idea of standard size windows sounds great, it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be, especially for builders and homeowners looking for the best options in look and efficiency. If you’re in Louisville, Kentucky or the surrounding area, you can learn more about the benefits of choosing custom replacement windows for your home by giving us a call at 502-822-5424 or sending us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

We’re Proud to Be Louisville’s ONLY Marvin Certified Installing Retailer

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At Door Store and Windows, our mission is to create outstanding customer experiences while improving the looks, comfort, and value of the homes and buildings we touch. That’s why we’ve been Marvin door and window installers for nearly 20 years – their performance and beauty are unmatched. Marvin has been manufacturing innovative window and door solutions for more than 110 years and is still family-owned and operated by the fourth generation of Marvin family members.

Door Store and Windows has qualified for and been designated as a member of Marvin’s Service Connection Dealer Program. Being the only Marvin Certified Installing Retailer in the Louisville area means our experience, expertise, and dedication to providing exceptional service can’t be beat. We partner with you at every step of the process, from selecting the right window and door solutions to order and install, to ensure a great outcome.

Our team will help guide you through your window and door replacement project by helping you to:

  • Evaluate – First, we’ll evaluate your current windows and doors to determine which are in good shape, which can be repaired, and which need replacing.
  • Select – Then, we’ll walk you through the selection process to choose the products that best fit your home’s style, your design preferences, and your budget. You can also visit our showroom for a personalized consultation where you can interact with the windows and doors we recommend for your home.
  • Install – Your new windows and doors will be installed by our Marvin-trained window installers, with respect to both your time and your home.

Types of Glass Doors and How to Use Them to Enhance Your Living Space

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There’s something about doors with glass that really enhance a space. They offer a fresh appearance while creating openness and making the room brighter by introducing more natural light. And if you want to take advantage of the view—to simply enjoy the scenery or to keep an eye on wandering children or pets—glass doors are the clear choice. (Pun absolutely intended.) There are many types of glass doors in various sizes, configurations, and design options to achieve your unique vision. Whether it’s a classic sliding French door on the patio, an interior door that adds a modern design touch, or a multi-slide scenic door that brings together your exterior and interior spaces, there’s a glass door to fit your needs and complement your home.

Entry Doors

An entry door (often called the front door) usually faces the street and is the main entrance to a house.  Door designs for modern or contemporary homes include narrow stiles and rails with large glass expanses, while other designs are more classic and may have traditional lines with wider stiles and rails, ogee sticking, and grille patterns on the glass. Or you might explore an entry door  coupled with sidelights and an overhead transom. Many glass options are available, including clear, obscure, decorative and art glass. The style and design choices are practically limitless.

Interior Doors

One often overlooked design choice is using glass for interior doors within a home. They can add a more modern element to the aesthetic of a living space. They can also be a great choice in more traditional designs. One of our favorite configurations we’ve installed included double doors with glass panels to create a closed, quiet office space, while retaining existing light and openness between the private space and adjoining room.


Bi-fold Doors

Bi-fold doors have multiple panels hinged together to open and close like an accordion, which is why they’re also referred to as folding or accordion doors. These doors are great for spaces with stunning views, or for indoor/outdoor spaces. We recently installed a bi-fold door between an open kitchen concept room and a screened porch. During good weather conditions, the living space is doubled for this Louisville family. They also close the doors and let the teenagers use the screened porch while the parents enjoy the adjoining room. If you have plenty of room, bi-fold doors can span widths up to 55’ feet, making a truly dramatic statement.

 

Sliding Doors

These doors, built with one or more door panels that slide open on a bottom track or from hanging rollers on the top, include barn doors, French doors, pocket doors, lift and slide doors and multi-slide doors. Unlike doors that swing open, sliding door panels stack, which makes them perfect for narrow rooms like balconies or patio-facing rooms where inside furniture might be in the way. They can be as simple as a two-panel patio slider or as complex as a full wall of moving glass. Below you’ll find a video of one of our recent sliding door projects, which consisted of bi-parting panels with adjacent fixed panels to save floor space. As you will see, these doors provide easy access to the deck—and a beautiful view from inside.

 

Multi-Slide Doors

A sliding door with multiple moving panels that either stack or conceal in a wall pocket when open is called a multi-slide door. They add an expansive view to huge openings, with options available over 50’ feet in width and 12’ tall. Some are even available with push-button motorized operation for ease of use. While standard sliding doors are great for replacement projects, multi-slide doors are best suited to new construction projects or large-scale remodels, due to structural requirements.

Swinging Doors

The swinging door is the most common door style, featuring one or more hinged panels that swing open and closed. An outswing door swings away from the house while an inswing swings in. There are millions of design options, depending on material, functionality, and design. They look right at home in traditional architectural settings as well as more contemporary settings. For smaller spaces, a single-hinged glass door might be the right choice while double doors can create a more elegant entrance for larger rooms.

 

Lift and Slide Doors

Lift and slide doors create a wall of glass for wonderful views, with the added benefit of easy, weightless movement due to an operating mechanism that lifts the door panels off the bottom tract. These doors are available in dozens of configurations, fitting openings as wide as 47’ and 12’ high. Panels can stack in full view or be concealed within a wall pocket. Lift and slides are the perfect combination of functionality and beauty—easy to use and a joy to behold!

As you can see, no matter what you have in mind, there’s a door with glass panels to match your vision. If you’d like to meet with one of our window and door specialists to discuss how a glass door might take your project to the next level, give us a call today at 502-822-5424 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

What Determines the Cost of New Windows? Here Are Three Main Factors.

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You need to replace your home windows. The glass is foggy. You’ve discovered rotten wood frames. And you can’t even open some of your windows. You’re ready to start your journey for information, but the first thing you wonder is “how much.” Great question.  Please forgive us if we stammer, but it can be difficult to say without knowing your needs and limitations, but here are the three main factors to consider…

Size and Type

As you might expect, costs vary depending on the style and size of your windows. Do you currently have double-hung or casement windows? Are they floor-to-ceiling? Do they have a transom or a round top? Each of these features makes a difference. Also, depending on the age of your home there may be variations in window sizes and jamb depths due to evolving architectural styles and construction technologies. Differences among manufacturers can play a part too.

CAUTION:  Custom sizes typically cost more than standard sizes. Replacement size options that are now considered “standard” often aren’t the standard size of years past. To lower costs, some replacement window companies sell standard sizes which are too small for the openings, creating the need to expand the trim width to fill the spaces. This diminishes your daylight opening and is obvious to the casual observer because the glass looks like it is set in a big picture frame. You might be okay with this option, but you deserve the chance to choose.


Location

It’s possible that identical sizes and types of windows in the same house can have variations in price. Why? Location, location, location. If the window is difficult to access, installation costs can be higher. The elevation of the windows matters as well. Second and third floor windows can take longer to install and may require additional equipment and safety gear, all of which can add to the price.

Material and Design

This is where your personal preferences can go a long way to determining the final cost of your windows. There are millions of material and design combinations to choose from, all at varying price points. Do you want your new windows to be wood, fiberglass or aluminum? When it comes to design, do you want grills or divided lites, or perhaps a picture window? What color are you thinking and what kind of hardware? Again, all of these choices impact the final cost.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices to make, talking with a window consultant can help. A knowledgeable consultant can walk you through the differences between materials, standard and custom finishes, and other industry specs. We recommend only talking to seasoned window replacement dealers with experienced sales consultants and installers. Longevity in the business is important. A physical location or showroom demonstrates a commitment to the community, not to mention you get a more hands-on experience when selecting your new windows.

TIP: Here’s one more reason to find a seasoned window dealer, You might want to explore replacing your windows in stages if the cost to do the whole house exceeds this year’s budget. Many people do! Check out our previous blog, Why Buying Replacement Doors and Windows Based on Price Is Not Always the Best Idea, for more information about why the cost of windows can be difficult to compare and how Door Store and Windows goes above and beyond to ensure you get the best final product for your money.

If you’d like to discuss your replacement window project with one of our window specialists, give us a call today at 502-822-5424 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

 


View the video below for more about the cost of windows from Door Store and Windows Co-owner Ann Gregory.

 

We’ve Added Weather Shield to Our Robust Product Lineup!

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We’re proud to announce our new partnership with Weather Shield, a family-owned manufacturer of high-quality doors and windows. In business since 1955, they offer a solid mix of styles, shapes, sizes, and price points. Weather Shield fits perfectly into the broad selection of Door Store and Windows products, rounding out our offerings to better serve our building and remodeling customers who are always on the lookout for unique lines at a competitive cost. Our partnership is exclusive, making Weather Shield products only available locally at Door Store and Windows. That means our customers have another quality option available when bidding competitive jobs or working within finite budgets.

Room with Weather Shield Windows.

 Weather Shield’s product lines include several collections for a range of needs and design visions. The all-aluminum VUE collection delivers clean lines and mulling for ultra-modern tastes. For those looking to enhance the expansive views of custom high-end homes, the Contemporary collection checks that box. Weather Shield also offers traditional wood-clad windows at two price levels with its Premium and Signature series, both of which feature  a variety of colors, hardware, and finishes.

Laurie Scarborough, co-owner of Door Store and Windows, said, “We chose to partner with Weather Shield not only to broaden our selection of quality doors and windows, but because of how they do business. They’ve been family-owned and operated since the start, so they’ve had the freedom to take a long-term perspective that emphasizes quality over volume. Their products are well-constructed, beautifully designed, and backed by a competitive warranty. Not to mention they offer an excellent value for our price-conscious customers. It’s a win-win all around.”

To learn more about Weather Shield’s wide-range of products, visit weathershield.com or contact us with any questions.

 


View the video below to check out some examples of Weather Shield’s product design flexibility.

 

The ABCs of Doors & Windows: The Parts That Windows and Doors Have in Common

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This is part three of our blog series, The ABCs of Doors & Windows. Follow the links to read parts One and Two.

Brick Mold Casing (BMC) – This is the exterior molding on a window or door frame that sits against the structure’s exterior material, serving as a decorative boundary for siding, brick or other material.

Casing – The casing is the interior trim that surrounds the window or door which covers the gap between the window/door and the drywall, hiding the frame, insulation and caulking.

Cladding – The vinyl, fiberglass or aluminum jacket that covers the wooden core on the exterior side of a window or door is called the cladding. It helps preserve the wood and improve its weather resistance.

Divided Lites – Divided lites create the look of multiple, individual panes of glass in a window or door. They can use many different panes of glass or they can be simulated to mimic the look of multiple panes to take advantage of the improved energy efficiency of a single pane. Divided lites are popular in a wide range of architectural styles, from historic replications to modern farmhouses. 

Insulating Glass (IG) – This glass assembly consists of two or more sealed glass panes separated by a space between to reduce heat transfer. Insulating glass, which can contain argon for improved thermal insulation, is one of the most impactful window and door features in terms of energy efficiency. 

Obscure Glass – Often used on entry doors and bathroom windows, obscured glass features a pattern in the pane that provides privacy while maintaining full light transmission.

Screens – Screens are made of close-mesh woven material of metal or fiberglass attached to an aluminum or wood surround, inhibiting the entry of insects while still permitting light, air, and field of view when windows and doors are open.

Tempered Glass – This safety glass is required for large windows and windows that are low to the ground. The glass is heated and then cooled rapidly in a controlled environment for added strength. The tempering process also makes the glass safer due to the pebble-like fragments created when shattered.

Transom – These windows are located above the main window or door and can be either stationary or operating. They allow more light to enter while also adding a decorative touch. 

Weather Strip – Made of felt, foam tape or formed plastic, this strip of resilient material around the door or window reduces air and water infiltration by sealing the sash and frame.

We hope this series on door and window parts has helped you better understand the long list of terms you’ll hear when looking to update or upgrade your home.  Of course, we could not cover everything, so if you have any questions about windows, doors or what will work best for you project, CONTACT US today.

The ABCs of Doors & Windows: Getting to Know Your Door and All Its Parts

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This is part two of our blog series, The ABCs of Doors & Windows. Part one can be found HERE.

Just like with windows, doors have a long list of parts and pieces the average homeowner may not be familiar with. Below you’ll find a brief introduction to some of the most common door parts and pieces that will help you better understand your options and hopefully lead to a more informed decision about which door is right for your project!

Frame – Made up of side jambs, head jambs, and mulls, the frame provides the structure to the door opening. It’s the surrounding part of the entry that the door panel fits into.

Hinges – These are the pieces of hardware that allow the door to swing open and closed. Standard-sized doors typically have three hinges while larger, heavier doors may have four or more to help bear the load.

Lockset – The lockset is the complete door lock system including the lock mechanism, knobs, keys, plates, strikes and other components that allow the door to latch and lock in place.

Panel – Sometimes called a slab, the panel is the whole part of the door that swings back and forth. Many doors are divided into several smaller panels of wood or glass.

Rails – The rails are the horizontal segments along the top, bottom and sometimes middle of the door, depending on the panel configuration.

Stiles – The narrow, vertical segments on either side of a door panel are called the stiles. The lock stile is on the side with the door handle or knob, while the hinge stile is on the side with the hinges.

Sidelites (or Sidelights) – These tall, narrow windows are found on one or both sides of the door, allowing more light into the entry way and improving the view.

Sill – The bottom, floor-fastened component of an exterior door frame is called the sill, which helps to seal the entry from leaks and other intrusions.

Strike Plate – This thick metal plate is attached to the door jamb and has a hole to accommodate the door bolt (or multiple holes for multiple bolts), which extends into the plate to lock the door.

 

Sweep – Creating a weather-resistant barrier between the bottom of door panel and the sill, the sweep is made of rubber, foam, neoprene or vinyl.

 

Threshold – The threshold is the strip of metal, wood or fiberglass that covers the sill on an exterior entryway, providing an added seal against things like weather, drafts, and pests.

Of course, if you have any questions about doors or what will work best for you project, CONTACT US  today. In our upcoming final installment of the The ABCs of Doors & Windows, we’ll cover those parts common to both doors and windows! To view more videos about windows and their various parts, click HERE.

The ABCs of Doors & Windows: Getting to Know Your Windows and All Their Parts

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This is part one of our blog series, The ABCs of Doors & Windows.

When choosing new windows, you’re likely to find there are a lot of terms that may be unfamiliar to you. The following are some of the most common window terms and definitions to help you gain a clearer view when shopping for replacement windows!

Casement Window – Assembled as a complete operating unit, casement windows feature a combination of window frame, sash, weather-strip, and concealed hinges. Operating casements are hinged on one side, or at the top or bottom. They typically have a crank handle for smooth opening and closing.

Double Hung Window – These windows have two movable sashes, which allow them to slide open vertically. Coil spring blocks and tackle balancing devices keep them up when in the open position.

Single Hung Window – This window looks like a double hung window, but the upper sash is fixed. Only the bottom sash moves up and down.

Frame – This is the stationary part of the window that encloses the glass or sash, made up of the following parts:

  • Head Jamb – The horizontal component along the top of the frame.
  • Sill – The horizontal component along the bottom of the fame.
  • Side Jamb – The vertical components along the sides of the frame.
  • Jamb Liner – The covering over the space between the window frame and the finished interior wall.
  • Jamb Extension – An addition to a standard jamb to adapt the window unit to a deeper wall thickness.

Sash – The operating and/or stationary portion of the window that’s separate from the frame unit is called the sash. It includes the following parts:

  • Stiles – The vertical component along the sides of the sash.
  • Rails – The horizontal components along the top and bottom of the sash.
  • Check Rails – The horizontal components that meet in the middle of a double hung and single hung window.
  • Muntin Bars – The divisional components that extend from rail to rail or stile to stile to create the look of smaller individual panes, usually used when historical accuracy is important.

Sash Lock – This locking device holds a window shut, with larger units utilizing two locks.

As always, if you have any questions about windows, doors or what will work best for you project, CONTACT US today. In our next blog we will tackle the different parts of a door so stay tuned! To view more videos about windows and their various parts, click HERE.

Six Solutions for Drafty Windows This Winter

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It’s officially winter and you can feel the chill outside. However, if you are feeling that chill inside, it is time to check your windows and get them ready for winter as well. This process, known as winterizing, will prevent both the frigid drafts from plummeting temperatures and the peaks of rising utility bills.

How to Winterize Your Windows:

1) Prepare the Window

Before you begin the winterizing process, make sure that your windows are clean. This can be done whenever the weather is temperate enough for the windows to be properly washed. Starting with a clean slate, examine the exterior windows for any gaps, check the caulk seal and note any other repairs that need to be made.

2) Close and Lock Your Windows

Next, be sure to close and lock all your windows. This action sets the window sashes into the correct position in the window frame, eliminating any unnecessary openings.  It maximizes the windows energy efficient features.

3) Caulk

Re-caulking windows is one of the most cost-effective ways of eliminating any leaks and drafts. First, check the exterior part of the window and then move on to the interior window, checking for any gaps and caulk that is old or missing. Be sure to remove the old caulk before you add the new caulk — it is easily removed with a putty knife or other tool.

4) Weatherstripping

After checking the caulk seal, check the weatherstripping around the windows. According to Craig Rowe at The Door Store and Windows, who has 25 years of experience in the door installation and service business, “the most important thing to address on any window is the weatherstripping. Making sure the contacts are clean so they seal well” is top priority. Weatherstripping is usually located on the sashes, which are the parts of your window that move.  Look for any tears, disintegration or missing pieces of weatherstripping that need to be replaced. Weatherstripping can be foam, hard inserts or rubber tubing, all effective in creating a barrier to the cold.

5) Reglazing

Problematic primarily in older homes with wooden window frames, window panes often need to be reglazed as they age. During your initial prep of your windows, check that the panes are intact, not loose and that your glaze covers the expanse of the pane. Reglaze any panes that need it to ensure uniform coverage.

6) Determine need for new windows

Sometimes the weatherstripping and caulking are not enough, and it’s time for new windows.  According to the experts at Marvin windows, “Old or inefficient windows could have the same effect on your heating bill as leaving a window open all winter long.” If this is the case, we are happy to come out and consult with you about your options.

Winterizing your windows is one of the biggest returns on investment that you can do to your home to maximize interior warmth and minimize high utility bills. It is a worthwhile investment of your time and money that will ensure you stay warm all winter long.

Interested in Dark Windows for Your House? Here’s What to Consider.

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Watch practically any home renovation show and you’ll see there’s been a resurgence in the dramatic look of dark windows. If you’re thinking of adding black or darker hued windows to your home, here are a few things to think about…

Are Dark Windows a Trend?

The fact is dark windows have been around for centuries. However, there’s no doubt the look has recently gained in popularity. We asked Ann Gregory at the Door Store and Windows for her thoughts. She said, “I personally believe all colors are a trend. Just consider your own home’s interior and exterior. It’s very common to change colors often. When it comes to darker windows though, bronze and black are very classic colors that will never go out of style.”

Dramatic Effect

Anytime you contrast a dark color with a lighter one, it makes an impact. If you’re looking for a less dramatic design choice, Gregory says “you can soften the contrast by only having dark sashes and making the frames a lighter color, balancing the darker and lighter looks.”

Inside the home, contrasts can be created with lighter walls that highlight the interior windows. Often there is no need for window treatments with such a dramatic difference in color. On the outside, darker windows against a lighter exterior draw attention to the house, positively impacting the curb appeal. In short, homeowners need to consider all the design choices of a home to ensure dark windows are a cohesive positive addition rather than an intrusive element.

Will They Fade?

Unlike white windows that do not fade as they age, exterior dark windows will inevitably show their age. It is important to invest in windows with higher quality components and a longer life span. Windows made from extruded aluminum cladding (versus thinner roll-form aluminum) retain their dark finishes longer. They may have a larger upfront cost but benefit from better protection against fading.

Two other things to think about when considering fading are the elevation and directions your window face. Exterior windows facing west or south fade more quickly than those facing east and north due to the sun’s direct UV rays. Also, windows in full sunlight will fade faster than those in shade. When it comes to elevation, higher windows often get more sunlight, unless they have a shade element nearby. More direct light means more susceptibility to fading.

Warranties

In general, dark windows do not cost more than white windows. Virtually all types of windows can be purchased in dark colors. Still, you want to make sure your investment will last. That’s where warranties come into play. The better the construction of a window, the longer the warranty. Windows made from extruded aluminum can have warranties of up to 30 years. It’s also important to note that some manufacturers only cover manufacturing defects, which doesn’t include fading, so carefully vetting the warranty is critical. As they say, you often get what you pay for and peace of mind in knowing your investment is protected can be well worth the added cost.

No matter what color you choose, any upgrade to your windows is a valuable asset to your home. That’s why working with a window specialist—rather than someone who does roofing or siding for example—is always a good idea. If you’d like to learn more about investing in your home’s curb appeal, the experts at Door Store and Windows can help you find the design solution that’s right for you.