A Revitalizing Refresh — 4 Helpful Tips for Painting Your Windows

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Many of us have been there—you know your home’s facade needs a refresh, but you can’t quite put your finger on exactly what to change. If you’re looking to incorporate a new color into your design palette or update aesthetics to boost curb appeal, painting your windows could be the project to consider. Phillip Patterson, president and owner of Phillip Patterson Painting, Inc., is here to offer some helpful tips and tricks to set you up for success!

Consider Your Window Material

When it comes to painting, Patterson says the first thing to consider is the material of your windows. “Wood, fiberglass, and clad can all be primed and painted with interior/exterior paint as you normally would. For vinyl, however, you’ll need to find the right bonding primer to ensure the paint has maximum coverage and durability.”

He recommends testing the bonding primer on your vinyl windows by applying it to a small area and waiting a few days (or even weeks) to see how it reacts. The last thing you want to do is rush through the job, then discover your primer isn’t up to the job—and have to start again from scratch.

Carefully Choose Your Paint

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the quality of paint you use. There are lots of options available at many different price points, but Patterson recommends never going cheap.

“Top grade exterior paints last longer,” he says. “Four years or so in the sun and eight if not in direct sunlight. Cheaper paints will likely not last nearly as long. So though you might save money initially, you’ll have to repaint everything much sooner.” A bit of added cost up front will mean you’re not redoing the job in a couple of years and spending the money you may have saved on cheaper paint to buy another round of supplies and labor.

Decide What and What Not to Paint

Once you’ve got your paint, the next step is deciding where to apply it. Make sure to adequately cover the sashes, grilles and rails. “Stay detail-oriented,” Patterson says. “Get down in the tight corners. In a casement window, it can be easy to miss the top edges and around the sides. Also, be sure to get full coverage so you don’t have to start over.”

As for what not to paint, avoid the weather stripping, window tracks, and hardware. You want to paint the window itself and not the attachable materials, otherwise you may restrict the window’s movement, making it more difficult to open and close. Additionally, to avoid painting your windows shut, make sure your windows are open when you paint and keep them open until the paint is dry. “Another easy mistake to make is keeping the windows completely still after painting,” says Patterson. “As the paint dries, move the window gently now and then to avoid painting them open.”

Don’t Skimp on Maintenance

After your windows have a fresh coat, it’s important to keep an eye on them in the coming months and years. When the paint starts to crack, they need to be repainted or you risk water damage. The water can seep into the window and begin to erode it in places that may not be visible. The water can also freeze, which puts added pressure on the frame and potentially breaking it. Paint acts as waterproofing for windows and this water resistance can protect you from more complicated problems. It’s also critical to maintain the caulking and glazing around your windows to keep up the seal for maximize protection. With proper maintenance, your paint job as well as your windows should last for years!

Of course, no matter how well you treat your windows, the day will come when you’ll need to replace them. If you think it’s time to start the search for replacement windows in Louisville, KY, we’d love to help. Give us a call at 502-822-5424 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

Thanks to Phillip Patterson for all the great tips! You can visit the Phillip Patterson Painting, Inc. website to learn more about their services by clicking the logo below. 

Simple Cold Weather Door Problems SOLVED

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Recently, we published a blog about solutions for drafty windows during the winter. Just like windows, winter chills can pass through your entry doors as well. Substantial heat loss and increased energy bills can be attributed to these door problems.

Unlike windows, which may remain unopened for months, doors are used daily and need to be energy efficient. There are no quick tricks to reduce cold problems such as covering or sealing them during the winter like a window. Doors need to be kept in good condition for their functionality and your comfort to be maximized.

Here are simple solutions to common door problems in the winter:

Drafty Doors

If you can feel the breeze near your front door, it is time to seal up the gaps. First, check the weatherstripping at the bottom of the door. If it is missing or disintegrating, it is simple to replace. Choose from plastic, rubber or foam inserts that you can find at your local hardware store.

Next, check the door threshold. Oftentimes in colder weather, the threshold screws become loose. Tightening the screws will raise the threshold and form a better seal against the bottom door sweep. A good test to see if your door is sealed: try to pass a dollar bill between the bottom sweep and the threshold. If it is difficult to do, then the door is sealed. Another good test is to get down on the floor to see if any daylight is showing through — so low that you are pressing your cheek to the floor for a perfect vantage point.

If you are still experiencing drafts after these two fixes, there might be bigger problems such as rot or other changes in the structural integrity of your door. You will need a door expert to diagnose the problem and we can do that for you.

Check and adjust your door hardware to ensure there are no gaps.

Frosty Doors and Hardware

Similar to the seal on a door threshold or frame, a door’s hardware needs to be sealed as well. Remember that hardware is filling a hole in the door that can become loose. Evidence of this gap in the door will be hardware that is cold, wet or even icy/frosty. Considering the heavy usage on door hardware, especially on an active door, loose hardware is usually the culprit.

Check to see that your hardware is centered over the doorknob hole first. Then when the hole is completely covered by the hardware, tighten all the screws on the doorknob or handle. This should alleviate the problem.

Check the seals and hardware on patio and sliding doors.

Frosty Patio or French Doors

Both sliding patio doors and French doors in a home are subject to developing frost on the inside of the door for a few reasons. First, the humidity inside the home can cause frost to develop on the glass inside the house. But when the frost is developing on just the glass doors and not any windows in the house, gaps in the door may be to blame, not the inside humidity of the house.

To check for drafts on patio doors, ensure that the seal is intact by closing and locking the doors. The hardware on the active sliding door needs to be sealed and tightened as well. The older your patio door, the draftier it can become due to normal wear and tear.

With French doors, one side is the “active door” and the other side is the “passive door”. The active door has the lock hardware and should be sealed tight. The passive door is more problematic, especially if the top and bottom slide bolts that keep it in place are not properly locked. With heavy use, all of this hardware on both the active and passive doors can become loose and out of position, thereby creating gaps letting cold air in the home.

Door Draft Stoppers are simple but effective solutions.

But, It’s a Rental

So your door is a little drafty, but your residence is a rental and you do not want to make any permanent changes. A quick and easy solution to a drafty door is the very cost-effective Door Draft Stopper. Placing this at the bottom of your door is literally a draft stopper. These come in many shapes and sizes to fit your door. Click here for a helpful list of the best sellers on Amazon. If you are really wanting to be budget conscious, simply roll up a bath towel and place it at the bottom of the door.

This Is Not My Forever Home

It may be difficult to justify the cost of a new door for anything other than your forever home.  However, door problems do not get better on their own and plans for moving can get delayed months, even years, leaving you uncomfortable in your home. A good door is a sound investment and has a significant Return on Investment; over 70% of the cost can be recovered during the sale of your home. So, go ahead and replace that drafty old door and live in comfort and security while you are thinking about moving. Just think, a potential home buyer will take notice and appreciate the beauty of your front door, and the obvious care you have given to maintain your home.

Drafty doors, just like drafty windows, can substantially impact the inside temperature of your home as well as your utility bill. These solutions to common door problems during the winter season can positively impact the comfort in your home with just a few simple steps.

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.

Which Window Glass Is Best for Your Home? Hint: There’s Not Just One Type to Choose from.

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When it comes to windows, most people focus on the window architecture and the basic aesthetic of the frame. But one of the most important elements for the function and efficiency of the window is the glass itself. There are a lot of options for glass whether it be the insulation, the strength and the surface coatings, all of which will maximize your investment.

Here are the different types of glass for windows:

  1. Standard Float
  2. Tempered
  3. Laminated
  4. Decorative
  5. Coated or Low-E
  6. Insulated

Considering you might need several types of window glass in your home, let’s consider the types and how they function.

1. Standard Float Glass

This is window glass in its basic form, made from glass that has been melted down and formed into a glass panel. It is fragile, weak and without any sort of coatings. It is this glass that is used to create the different types of glass for windows. It is the building block for all the different types window glass.

Tempered glass is considered “safety glassI’ and is manufactured to be up to four times stronger than standard glass.

2. Tempered Glass

Once float glass is made (see above), it can undergo another process to make it stronger called “tempering”. This results in a much stronger version of window glass. It can be broken but not be cut. When it is broken, the pieces are smaller and not as dangerous as when weak glass breaks. Also known as safety glass, it is optimal in any area where someone might accidentally fall into it or near it.  Tempered glass is commonly used in doors and big windows near a busy area.

Tip: Tempered glass is most commonly used in the large panes of glass – picture windows and door lites, for instance. Be careful! It is easily scratched by razor blades removing adhesive.

When a laminated glass pane is broken, the plastic holds all of the pieces together.

3. Laminated Glass

Even stronger than tempered glass is laminated glass, which is considered the ultimate safety glass. Laminated glass is created by placing a thin sheet of plastic between two panes of glass.  If broken, it will not shatter and disperse everywhere; it stays within the confines of the plastic. Also, this glass is ideal as a sound buffer with its layers of protection. Examples of laminated glass are car windshields, hurricane windows and windows in office buildings or high-rises.

4. Decorative Glass

Decorative glass encompasses any glass that is not perfectly clear and see-thru. Also known as obscured or textured glass, this glass allows natural light to come through the pane while also creating privacy. This glass can be etched, tinted, frosted or textured to create a decorative element. Decorative glass can be used anywhere in the home, but is most prevalent in bathrooms or doors, even in glass panels around the house.

5. Low Emissivity Glass

Low emissivity glass (or low-E) is created with a thin coating on the glass designed to block UV rays from the sun. This glass blocks infrared heat from the sun while still allowing light to pass through. They also reflect the interior temperature back into the house, resulting in a more temperate house, with heat being kept inside the home in the winter and cooler in the summer. By blocking the UV rays, everything from your skin to your furnishings will be protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

This coating is so thin that it is barely visible to the naked eye, and a window’s visibility is not impacted by it. This glass is an ideal candidate for large areas facing the sun.

6. Insulated Glass

The best way to maximize efficiency of your windows is to have insulated glass, which is used in double-pane and triple-pane windows. In between the panes of glass is a space separator; in this space gas such as argon or krypton is added to provide additional insulation between the panes.

Low-e glass can be used in these types of windows to add another layer of protection.

Double-paned glass offers protection from heat, cold, water, condensation and all forms of weather. Adding another pane increases that level of protection. A triple-pane glass window is thicker, which means that casements and the window structure will have to be expanded. The additional materials involved in a triple-pane window make this a more expensive option.

Tip: Let a knowledgeable window/door sales consultant help you determine if double- or triple-pane glass is right for your geographic location and/or the location of the sun on your house. You can mix double-pane and triple-pane in the same house!

Different climates, sun exposure and client needs are all important elements in determining the correct window glass for your space. One type of glass does not fit all your needs. Choosing the right type is important and since different types of glass will be needed all over your home, it is necessary to speak with a window dealer.

If you’d like to learn more which glass to choose for your home, contact us today. We’d love to help!

Shutter Maintenance Tips from a Local Expert

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As a follow-up to our prior blog about choosing the right shutters for your home, it is important to discuss the maintenance and possible repair of your existing shutters. Even if your shutters look damaged, many times they can be repaired rather than replaced. In addition, regular maintenance of your existing shutters will ensure a long lifetime for this very important decorative aspect of your home.

We spoke to Phil Patterson, owner of Phillip Patterson Painting Inc., about his shutters expertise: repairing versus replacing your shutters, the best ways to maintain your shutters, and mistakes to avoid. He gave us some great advice and guidelines about all things shutters!

 

To Repair or Replace—That Is the Question.

How do you determine if you need to replace your shutters or if can you repair them instead? Patterson gave us this step-by-step checklist:

  • If there are small cracks and/or holes that we can easily fill with caulk or putty, then that’s our first level of repair.
  • If there are areas of rot that are a bit bigger than described above, then we dig out the bad rot and seal and fill with Bondo.
  • If some of the slats are loose or falling out, we put them back in and pull the sides together to tighten all the slats and secure the back of the shutters with metal brackets.
  • If we find the bottom end of the shutter completely rotted, we sometimes can cut it out and replace it with a new piece of wood. However, that can be a bit time consuming and may not be worth the time and effort.
  • You can replace just the metal hardware without replacing the whole shutter. The metal hardware includes hinges, straps and holdbacks. Also, if the metal is still in good condition and there is no corrosion, the finish can be stripped and repainted.

Patterson encourages the homeowner to be realistic, saying that “before we spend TOO much time and money on a bad shutter, we have to decide what’s better for the customer: Repair or Replace.”

Maintenance of Existing Shutters

How important is regular maintenance? What does regular maintenance entail? Patterson says that “the paint is the life of the shutter. If the paint job has failed to the point that the film begins to crack and peel, then the water is getting in. That’s when wood rot begins. The other important thing you can do for a wood shutter to extend the longevity is to install metal caps at the top edge of every shutter. The top edges when exposed to the sun and weather will crack open letting water in.  If you can keep that from happening, you’ll double or triple the life of the shutter.”

It is highly recommended to keep your shutters clean of dirt, debris, insects, birds and even bats. You can accomplish this by brushing them on both sides with a soft bristled brush on a regular basis.

Mistakes to Be Avoided

Here are some common mistakes that shutter owners make that can be avoided.

  1. Not painting them frequently Shutters should be painted at least twice as often as the house they’re hanging on.
  2. Not having metal caps on all the top edges.
  3. Not supporting the outside bottom corner of the shutter with the s-hook Many times, the wider shutters without that support will sag hard, causing the slats to fall out.

In general, the best thing you can do is to keep up the basic maintenance on your shutters with a current paint job using good paint and consistent cleaning practices. Paying attention to the state of your wood shutters and keeping them in good shape is the key to a long lifetime. Many times, fully replacing a shutter is not necessary; repair by a professional is often more than enough to keep them functional and nice.

If you’d like to learn more about shutters, shutter selection or the installation process, contact us today. We’d love to help you add a bit of extra curb appeal to your home!

Choosing the Right Shutters for Your Home

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For hundreds of years, shutters have provided a functional cover for windows in homes all over the world. Initially intended for privacy and protection from the elements, shutters now are mostly purely decorative, a nice detail that adds a finishing touch to a house and ramps up the curb appeal!

Choosing shutters for your windows requires some thought and planning to ensure you get the right type for your window. Of course, having them installed correctly is also critical. Here are some elements to consider when choosing new shutters…  

1. Fit

When choosing your shutters, fit is of utmost importance. The shutters need to be proportional to the structure of the windows. In other words, the shutter should be the same shape and proportions as the windows. For this reason, it’s important to choose shutters that complement the shape of your windows.

2. Alignment

Once the fit is established, it is important to align the horizontal and vertical elements with the structure of your window. Shutter rails need to align with the rails on the window sashes. The symmetry of the windows should directly match the symmetry of the shutters.

3. Architecture

Choose a shutter style that complements the architectural style of your house and even your neighboring homes. If you are replacing the shutters completely, experts recommend getting as close to the home’s original shutter style as possible.

There are five basic silhouettes: louvered, raised panel, flat panel, board and batten, and Bahama and Bermuda. These shutter types cover most all variations of windows.

4. Installation

When installing shutters, the location of the shutter is key. Shutters should never be attached to the house next to the window. Shutters need to have hinges. They should be mounted on top of the window casing on the hinge. Mounting the shutter on the hinge gives the shutter appearance depth and shadow lines, which is the aesthetic norm. Without shadows, the shutters appear fake and flat.

If you’d like to learn more about shutters, shutter selection or the installation process, contact us today. We’d love to help you add a bit of extra curb appeal to your home!

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

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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

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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

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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.