Why Buying Replacement Doors and Windows Based on Price Is Not Always the Best Idea

/in , , , , , , , /by

As the saying goes, you get what you pay for.

We understand that shopping to find the best deal seems sensible, but when you shop for replacement windows and doors based solely on price, you can put your considerable investment in your home at risk. Below you’ll find some of the reasons the cost of windows and doors is not always comparable and how Door Store and Windows goes above and beyond to ensure you get the best final product for your money.

Select Quality Products Built by Reliable Manufacturers

All door and window manufacturers are not created equal. Each has different manufacturing processes and quality management practices that contribute to the overall excellence of the product. To ensure your doors and windows don’t fail prematurely, make sure to research the manufacturers to determine which offers the best in demonstrated function, strength, and longevity. It also doesn’t hurt to find out how long they’ve been in business. A decades-old company is more likely to have time-tested production systems in place that make it more likely you’ll get a higher standard of door and window. And don’t forget to check the warranties—you don’t want to be left paying for a replacement for your replacement.  Here at Door Store and Windows, we only work with manufacturers that have the best and most predictable quality over time, not to mention industry-leading warranties that protect your investment long after our job is done.

Expert Project Consultation Is Key

Choosing replacement doors and windows might seem like a straight forward process, but if you don’t get it right it could mean more expense down the road. That’s where an expert replacement consultant is invaluable. They can help you determine exactly what product you need to meet your functionality and design requirements. Is your door in an overexposed entry way? You don’t want a wood door. Want your new windows to look like they have always been there? Beware standard sizes used in larger openings. This idea may lower your price, but will ultimately  detract from the overall beauty of  your home. When you work with Door Store and Windows, our project consultants carefully listen to your needs and provide you the best options for your project. We size and order products to perfectly fit your home for the highest level of functionality and aesthetic beauty. We also double—and triple—check everything before ordering to make sure you’re getting exactly what you want.

Don’t Skimp on Installation Supplies

 Using only the best installation supplies available will help your windows and doors perform at their best for a long time. Though there are cheaper options on the market, caulks with multi-year warranties and high-quality spray foam can make all the difference. Anchoring screws, adhesives, and on and on—every aspect of installation matters. That’s why we use only the best in class in all our supplies. It’s worth the cost to ensure there are no weak points in your installation that could come back to haunt you down the road.

Expert Installation Makes the Difference

Replacing windows or doors in an existing home that has settled or experienced other wear and tear is not a project for unskilled workers. A poor install could mean leaks and other issues that lead to serious damage and repair costs. You want to work with installers and service technicians who are seasoned professionals with years in the business. That’s what you get at Door Store and Windows. Our installers are factory-trained and receive ongoing safety training from outside consultants. Every member of our team is drug-tested, bonded, insured, and has passed background and safe-driving tests. To back them up, we supply them with all the best equipment as well, including new trucks and quality tools kept in top notch condition. When your installers can work at the highest level, you receive the highest level of service and expertise in return.

Measuring A Replacement Window

A TDSW Installer measuring the window insert area.

You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Some examples are:

  • How invasive to my home is replacing my windows or doors?
  • What will I need to do before and after the installation?
  • Who hauls away the old windows?
  • Will I have to paint the walls or trim in my room after the installation?
  • How long will I have an open “hole” in my house?
  • How long will the installation take?
  • Do the installers clean up after themselves?

Depending on the answers, you may have more expense ahead of you.  Ultimately, knowledge is power.

We Are Here to Answer Any Questions

If you’d like to discuss adding replacement windows or doors to your home, our expert Sales Consultants can help. We’re happy to walk you through all the options to find the perfect fit for your style and budget. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home, no obligation consultation.

Six Things to Think about When Replacing Your Front Door

/in , , , , , /by

Once you’ve made the decision to update your entry with a new front door—what’s next? With so many door types, colors, and configurations available, the choices can be overwhelming. So let’s take a moment to run through some of the most important things to consider when determining the best fit and feel for your home.

1. Match Your Style—and Your Home’s Too

The shape and style of your new door is often determined by the architectural style of your home. For instance, sleek, crisp lines for modern designs or an arched, wood selection for a classic Tudor. However, some homeowners like to venture outside of these guidelines for something more unexpected. In those cases, we recommend a transitional style that’s a happy medium between the style of your home and your personal taste.

2. Make Safety & Security a Priority

A door is only as secure as its hardware. If you’re looking for an option that’s sure to give you peace of mind, we suggest a high-quality, multipoint locking system, where the hardware locks at different places in the door but can still be controlled by a single lock mechanism. We don’t generally recommend double-cylinder deadbolts as they may make it more difficult to get out of your home should there be a fire or other event that requires a fast exit.

There are lots of options to ensure your door is secure.

3. Determine Exposure to the Elements

How exposed your door is to the elements can have a big effect on what kind of material you choose. For example, you don’t want to put a wood door in an area that gets a lot of sun or rain. Instead, you might think of using steel, fiberglass or a clad product using multiple materials like aluminum clad wood or fiberglass clad wood. On the flipside, if your door is completely protected from the elements, the sky’s the limit—depending on your budget of course.

4. Think about Function as Well as Form

The kind of door you choose impacts the look of your entry as well as how it functions.  For instance, if the door will open to a small interior room, an inswing door may interfere with furniture placement. In that setup, an outswing door is likely a better option. If the entryway is located in the rear of the house, a sliding door is another alternative. Or maybe you need a way to move big items in and out of the house. If so, you might consider a double door system rather than a single door with sidelites. Whatever your setup, there’s a door configuration to match.

5. Choose Your Hardware Carefully

Hardware can be tricky.  If you have a very ornate door, you should consider a simpler style of hardware. On the other hand, a simple door with more ornate hardware might be more appropriate.  No matter what you choose, don’t skimp on quality.  Your door hardware is used multiple times a day so it needs to be able to withstand regular use. It’s a very important element to the door’s look and functionality—as well as your long-term happiness!

Your door color can make all the difference.

6. Find a Color that Works

Choosing the color of your door can be one of the most fun parts about the process. Whether you’re looking for a color that perfectly coordinates with your entry or for something that pops, the best option to find your color would be to buy a few pints of the paint you’re considering and paint the door you’re replacing. You can also get smaller samples and paint a piece of wood to place in front of the door to see how it looks with the house.

We’re Here to Help

We know—it’s a lot to think about. That’s where our expert Sales Consultants can help. We can walk you through all of your options to ensure you get the perfect entry door to match your style and needs. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home, no obligation consultation!

A Match Made in Clifton: Replacement Windows Restore Classic Look to Historic Home

/in , , , /by

As any owner of a historic home will tell you, renovation projects can be exciting but often come with a long list of challenges. Architectural styles can be difficult to match, as can paint and stain colors. Not to mention, there’s the exacting process of working within the strict guidelines of local historic preservation codes. The good news is there’s no need to navigate these challenges alone—the experts at Door Store and Windows can match nearly any window, color or style to ensure your replacements retain or restore your home’s historical character.

A great example of how Door Store and Windows has helped with a historic window replacement comes from our client Stephanie, whose home in Clifton was built in 1925. Before she purchased the house, the previous owners had replaced several of the original grid windows with ill-fitting and unattractive aluminum windows that did not match the home’s architecture.

Before: The Aluminum Windows in the Front Room (Left) and Kitchen (Right)

“Nothing really looked or felt right,” Stephanie said. “The aluminum windows didn’t reflect the charm I knew the house had when it was first built. I really wanted to restore the house as best as possible to its former beauty and level of craftsmanship.”

In her quest to restore the home’s look, Stephanie also had several windows that were original to the home restored by an expert. She was very happy with the results, but realized now she needed matching storm windows for better energy efficiency and protection from the elements. It was yet another detail that had to comply with the stringent specifications required by Clifton’s historical district guidelines.

“I knew it was a big project that would require a lot of specialized expertise and a huge attention to detail,” Stephanie said. “That’s why I turned to Door Store and Windows.”

After a consultation with one of Door Store and Windows’ window and door replacement specialists, Stephanie selected a non-standard window style that matched her 95-year-old windows, down to the grids. The specialist was also able to review Door Store and Windows’ comprehensive catalog of stain colors to find one identical to that of the original trim. They even sourced hardware to match. To finish the job, low-profile storm windows were installed over the new replacement windows as well as the restored windows. The final result exceeded all expectations.

After: The New Windows with Matching Trim

“After everything was finished, I could not believe it,” Stephanie said. “Everything blended so well, inside and out. You’d never know the new windows hadn’t been there since the house was built. It’s amazing. One of the reasons I first fell in love with the home was the beautiful woodwork throughout the place, especially around the windows. I definitely had worries that the new window installation would possibly destroy some of that woodwork. I’m so glad to say that wasn’t the case. Door Store and Windows were able to seamlessly meld everything together. I couldn’t be happier.”

If you have questions about historic replacement windows, stop by our showroom to checkout all of the unique designs we have available or CONTACT US to set up a consultation.

Five Reasons to Change Your Entry Door

/in , , , , /by

As we always say, your front door is often the first impression your guests have of your house—and sometimes of you too. But beyond first impressions, there are many reasons to consider a change to your entry door. Here are five we think are the most important…

Safety First

If you have concerns about the security your door offers, there are lots of options for enhancing the strength and safety of your entry, like choosing wood/clad or metal doors and adding advanced locking systems. Installing a new entryway can also address issues like rot, cracking and warping, which can provide access points for those looking to find an easy way in.

Match Your Style

Whether you’ve recently done a remodel or have just never been happy with the look of your entryway, making a change can go a long way to amp up the style meter. Using cues from your home’s architecture and interior design, choosing a matching door and entry concept can wholly transform a space, not to mention boost your curb appeal!

Energy Efficiency Is Key

One of the most important aspects of an entryway is to make sure it’s energy efficient. After all, if it’s not well sealed and insulated it’s effectively just a big hole in your wall. That can mean added dollar signs to your electric bill, not to mention possible water leakage and unwanted visitors like bugs and even mice. Different door materials like fiberglass, steel and wood provide different levels of efficiency, so it’s critical to find the right balance between how it looks and how performs.

Enhance Your Natural Light

Consider the amount of light you want in your entry hall. Maybe you like it bright; perhaps you prefer things a bit dimmer. Either way, your entry can provide lots of natural light or very little, depending on your choice of door lights, sidelites and even a transom.

Maintenance Matters

It can be easy to forget that your entryway needs maintenance too. It’s such an integral part of your home, it’s sometimes overlooked. That being said, cleaning your door is always required, no matter the material it’s made of. But maybe you have a door with a stain or varnish finish that’s harder to maintain. If so, moving to a painted or metal door might be worth considering.

If you have questions about choosing the right entry door or you’d like to speak to one of our door design specialists, give us a call. We’ll make sure you find the right fit for your home and lifestyle!

Noise Abatement

/in , , , /by

New windows and doors aren’t just about aesthetics. Sometimes we’ll get a customer with a very specific need and we never shy away from a challenge! For example, this customer presented a unique problem: noise abatement.

The Problem

Rick and Kay built their house in Eastern Jefferson County in 1999. A few years ago, Interstate 265 expanded, and the noise from the new highway became impossible to ignore. All day long, but especially at night while they were trying to sleep, the sound of cars and trucks disturbed the family’s peaceful home. “I’m a light sleeper,” Rick said, “and I could hear every truck that went by in the house, all night long, every day. I said ‘we need to do something about this,’ and I contacted the Door Store. Kay and I met with them and I said ‘we need to have some sound deadening.’”

The Solutions: New Windows and Doors

We knew that updating the original vinyl windows to a Marvin wood-clad window would be a huge improvement, but simply switching the windows and doors wasn’t going to solve the problem completely.

Noise reduction glazing on glass windows and doors helps reduce sound drastically. We researched all the options of glazing profiles to find the right solution for the family. Together, Rick and the Door Store and Windows team determined which glass and glazing options were most cost-effective.

The result was really impressive.

A close-up of the new windows.

A close-up of the new windows show the quality.

“Whisper Quiet”

One of the project’s primary goals was improving the family’s sleep, so the team focused on the bedrooms. We installed the same windows and glazing along with an additional storm window. Marvin builds their storm window right in, appearing as part of the window as opposed to an a separate piece. This combination made the couple’s bedroom “whisper quiet,” which resulted in an increased STC (Sound Transmission Class) rating by about 7 points.

With the windows finalized, we tackled the kitchen door to the back patio. We installed a 20-gage steel door with triple-glazed glass and added foam insulation all around the frame, so that all the air pockets were filled.

New Marvin Windows

Glazing was added to the family’s windows.

The Result

The resulting noise abatement and the decreased energy bills impressed our customer. The new doors and windows brought down the family’s energy usage significantly, a great byproduct of fixing their initial problem.

Rick also commented on the service he received from our team. He appreciated that our installation team is made up of Door Store and Windows employees, and that they are not an outsourced vendor. Our team’s attention to detail and respect for the home was evident.

We’re pleased to be able to offer a noise abatement solution to our customer. We wish them many more happy, peaceful, and quiet years together. Are you curious about our window installation process? Learn more here. 

Intentionally Inconsistent: Mixed Hardware Finishes

/in , , , , , /by

A recent customer approached us about her St. Matthews home. The home was built in the early 1930s and her recent renovation aimed to modernize it, while keeping the original aesthetic in place. A challenge? Not really.

There is no rule that says all hardware within a home must match. In fact, adding different finishes around the house, when done thoughtfully, can really add a new layer of design and interest within a home.

For this client, she was intentional not only about design, but also about her specific needs as related to both window and door hardware throughout the interior and exterior of the home.

Brushed nickel hardware on the window matches the stainless steel appliances in the kitchen.

With stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, she felt brushed nickel hardware worked best and maintained consistency throughout the room. In other parts of the house, darker hardware was used due to touches of dark accents in each room.

Oil-rubbed bonze is considered a “living finish.”

On her beautifully adorned brand-new back patio, she brought in the darker hardware with an oil-rubbed bronze. Oil-rubbed bronze is what’s known as a “living finish” which means it is uncoated with a sealant and will naturally oxidize over time to show a unique patina on the finish. It will transform slightly over time through exposure to the environment and regular use. Some refer to a living finish as a way for hardware to age gracefully, adding personality and charm to the doorknob over the years. This works in this beautiful space.

Dark bronze is sealed and perfect for doors in high-traffic areas.

For a more utilitarian approach, she selected a dark bronze doorknob for what is probably the door with the heaviest usage. Her side door is where she most enters the house from the car as she comes and goes throughout each day. For this reason, the dark bronze is the right fit as it is sealed and no patina or aging is expected. The color on a dark bronze piece of hardware will remain constant for years to come.

Finally, the question became what to do with the hardware on her front door. Original to the home, this brass doorknob really seemed to work. Our salesperson guided the homeowner to keep what “wasn’t broken” and continue using this ornate door knob which really serves as a jewel to the home – and it works with the design and in conjunction with the rest of the house. A nod to the past, this doorknob reminds all who enter that although this home is updated and current, it has a history which should be respected and enjoyed throughout all of its future generations.

The original brass doorknob adds character and charm to the home.

If you are considering updating the hardware throughout your home, consider adding different finishes to meet your needs and work with your design. Our designers can help guide you to select the right choices that will bring you happiness every time you enter a room!

Palladian Window Installation – Part Two

/in , , , , /by

Palladian Window Installation – Part Two!

Read part one of the Palladian window install blog here!

In our last post, we shared the initial stages of our largest window replacement to-date: a 10 ft by 17 ft, two-story Palladian window. One of the most important aspects of the installation was ensuring that the homeowner was without a window for as brief a time as possible. To guarantee a swift, safe, and secure installation, TDSW spent significant time in preparation. From start to finish, this Palladian window replacement took the TDSW crew three days.

Day 1

For the comfort and safety of the customer, it was vital that no part of the window remain open overnight. To ensure that the installation process could be completed in one day, the TDSW team spent the first day of the install in preparation, setting up and troubleshooting the installation process. Due to the size of the window, we built scaffolding so that the removal and install could happen quickly and safely on the second day. Once the prep work was complete, we were ready for the actual installation.

On day one we built scaffolding and did prep work to ensure that the window could be removed safely and easily on day two.

Day 2

On the second day, a team of six worked for approximately six hours carefully removing the old window and installing each piece of the new product. The glass in the old window was un-tempered and fragile, and this combined with the poor condition of the surrounding wood made the removal much more time-consuming than the installation. Once the old window was removed, the team installed the new product from the bottom up. By the end of the day, the window was fully installed and ready for finishing touches.

The old window had to be removed one pane at a time.

Day 3

On the final day, the team trimmed the new window and cleaned up the space. Casing was added to the interior, completing the look, while brick mold with an aluminum clad finish was added to the exterior. Finally, the team broke down the scaffolding and cleaned up any debris from installation.

The customer was delighted with the finished product!

Check out the time-lapse video of this project!

Door Store and Windows is proud to have the opportunity to replace the windows in your home, from the smallest to the largest statement windows. No matter the project, replacement, custom or new construction, TDSW is here to help. Give us a call today!

Door Store and Windows Rises to Any Challenge

/in , , , , /by

Palladian Window Replacement – Part One

With over twenty years of experience and a talented team of experts, Door Store and Windows (TDSW) is uniquely equipped to tackle even the most challenging installation projects. Recently, a client came to us after consulting with three other window replacement companies who were unable to complete their project. They asked us to replace their 25-year old, two-story Palladian window, and we were confident in our ability to make the client’s vision a reality.

Our largest replacement to-date: a two-story Palladian window.

To begin the process our Sales and Design Consultant, Karen, met with the client at their home to assess the window and evaluate the project needs. The window was severely rotted, and at 10 feet by 17 feet, it was the largest that we had ever replaced. During the visit, Karen took extensive measurements and then began the process of developing preliminary window drawings. Given its majestic size, Karen, Jim, and Craig of the TDSW team worked with the Marvin architectural team to engineer a custom replacement window built with structure and stability in mind.

The old window was severely rotted.

The homeowner wanted to preserve key design elements and the feel of the original window. We communicated with the client regularly during the design process, discussing options and architectural details to ensure the final product was a strong, durable window suited precisely to their tastes. Once the client was satisfied with the design, the Marvin team fabricated the window. A window of this size is too large to be transported in one piece, so it was designed to be installed in five sections at the job site.

The new window was designed to be installed in sections.

It’s not only custom designs and complex replacements that warrant this kind of thoughtful attention to detail. As a local business, we pride ourselves in treating each customer as a neighbor, being communicative, helpful, and willing to go above and beyond to solve any door or window design problem that you may have. Consistent customer service, no matter how large or small the project, is one of the many reasons why Door Store and Windows is your most trusted exterior design source.

Curious about the installation of the two-story Palladian window? Click here to read the rest of the story!

At Door Store and Windows, our goal is to provide peace of mind and customer satisfaction throughout the entire replacement process. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at (502) 822-5424.

Our Window Installation Process

/in , , , /by

Quality Products Deserve Quality Installation

Replacing more than one window in your home may sound like a daunting project, but at Door Store and Windows we strive to make the replacement process as simple as possible for the homeowner. One important aspect of this is our efficient rolling installation.

During your window installation, the TDSW team breaks into two groups. Team A begins the installation process on the first window, removing the old and preparing the frame for the new. At the halfway point, team B begins removing the second window and preparing the frame. This way, as soon as team A finishes installing the first new window, the second is ready to be installed. This rolling process guarantees that the project is done quickly and efficiently without leaving your home vulnerable to the elements.

An installation project timeline depends on the number and type of windows you plan to replace. We are proud to say that we complete most of our installation projects in one to two days, causing as little disruption as possible.

Our window installation process consists of the following steps:

1. Team Arrival, Introduction, and Work Space Preparation

Our installation team consists of two to five people, depending on the size of the project. When the team arrives, they introduce themselves before preparing their work space. To contain debris, we place plastic sheeting on the floor and surrounding surfaces in each room. Our team lays a plastic walkway throughout the home so that our team members can carry heavy equipment without affecting your floor. As required by the EPA, we use additional coverage when replacing very old windows which have been covered with lead-based paint.

Plastic sheeting is placed around the window to be removed.

2. Verify Measurement

Before removing any windows, our team makes sure to re-measure the insert area and the new window. This guarantees that the correctly sized product was delivered and that we will be able to complete the project once we begin demolition.

Measuring A Replacement Window

A TDSW Installer measuring the window insert area.

3. Remove Old Window

After measurements are verified, our team carefully removes the first old window, preserving molding and surrounding areas.

The old windows are carefully removed.

4. Clean Insert Area

Once the old window is removed, our team cleans up any loose paint, dust, and other debris from the insert area. At this point in the demolition, you may be able to see inside your wall. This surprises some of our customers, but there’s no need to worry: our team will ensure that there are no signs of demolition once installation is complete.

The insert area is thoroughly cleaned before installation.

5. Installation

Our team carefully unloads the new windows, removes the packaging, and installs the product. Once the window is set and secured, we use spray foam insulation around the perimeter. This creates an energy-efficient seal. Then, we reapply the trim.

A TDSW Installer lifts the new window into place.

6. Clean-Up

After installation we clean up any debris, vacuum the area, and remove the plastic sheeting.

The finished product.

At Door Store and Windows, our goal is to provide peace of mind and customer satisfaction throughout the entire replacement process. Click here to learn more about the replacement process from consultation to install. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at (502) 822-5424.

Read about out our door replacement process by clicking here!

Seven Steps To Ease Your Fears About Cold Weather Installation

/in , , , /by

The first blast of winter is upon us and the chill inside your home tells you your windows or doors need to be replaced. Don’t put it off until better weather arrives. We’ll protect your home from the elements during installation and new windows or doors will make your home comfortable year-round.

Installation Manager Craig Rowe and Lead Installer Steve Hudson outline our process for cold weather installs:

1. We Plan Ahead.

Planning ahead will keep us from going in and out of the house unnecessarily and limits the amount of time your door or window opening is uncovered. This includes making sure we have adequate plastic for temporary walls (if necessary), plenty of floor protection pads and a thermos of hot coffee! Caulk, foam insulation, and weather barrier membrane are moved to a warm area to keep them ready-to-use.

2. We Protect Your Home From Dirt and Weather.

Floor padding protects against dirt, snow, water or construction debris that might be tracked into the house. Plastic is hung over nearby openings to reduce the amount of cold air entering the home and to reduce dust transmission. Plastic or padding is placed on any surface or object in the installation area to prevent damage and protect from dust. Delicate hanging items are removed from nearby walls. When possible, temporary weather barriers are created using spring loaded posts and plastic sheeting to close off the installation area from the rest of the house. We also check that all tools and supplies are in place before work begins.

3. We Work On One Opening At A Time.

It might be more efficient to do it differently, but in cold or other extreme weather conditions, we work on one opening at a time to reduce the weather exposure inside your home. And we don’t stop working on that opening until it is filled.

We don’t stop working on an opening until it is filled…even if it means we work through lunch, darkness or whatever it takes.

– Door Store and Windows Install Team

4. We Make Sure The New Product Is Ready.

New product pre-install preparation, such as the removal of packaging and wrapping materials, is completed prior to the removal of the old product so the new product is ready to install.

5. We Double Check Everything.

Prior to removing the old product, we double-check the opening measurements to make sure it will accept the new product. We also check the product against your contract specifications to ensure the right product is being installed. Double-checking keeps us from fully removing the old product only to be surprised if it doesn’t fit.

6. We Remove The Old Product…Quickly!

The extra time we spend double-checking the product and opening size usually allows us to quickly remove the old product and immediately begin prepping the opening for the new product. Once the old product is removed, the opening is thoroughly cleared of debris.

7. We Place The New Product…Quickly!

The ready-to-install product is placed into the opening and final installation begins. This critical step involves attention to detail to ensure a proper weather barrier is created. The product is leveled, shimmed and fastened. Expanding foam is added in the gaps between the product and the opening to create a lasting weather-tight seal. Final installation details such as installing trim and adding hardware is completed and your new window or door is ready to make your home more comfortable.

If you’re ready to make your home more comfortable with new windows or doors, give us a call. We’ll ease your fears about cold weather installation and make sure your experience is outstanding.