American Flag Etiquette

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Many of us like to display the American flag, especially around holidays like Flag Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day. But have you ever been unsure about the proper etiquette around displaying Old Glory or how you should clean your flag? Or maybe you’re concerned about what you should do if your flag becomes worn and can no longer be displayed at all. Below you’ll find some basic tips for flag care, display and disposal to help put your worries to rest so you can enjoy the Stars and Stripes in all its majesty!

American Flag Display

The U.S. Flag Code was written in 1923 and made into law in 1942. According to the code there are 7 rules of flag etiquette that should be observed when displaying your flag.

  • The flag should be displayed only from sunrise to sunset unless the flag is illuminated sufficiently.
  • The American flag should be to the right of all other flags meaning to the observer’s left. On your home, the flag should be displayed to the right as you exit your front door.
  • No other flag should be placed above the U.S. flag.
  • The flag should never touch the ground or anything below the flag such as water or plants.
  • Do not fly the flag in inclement weather unless it is an all-weather flag.
  • Do not fly a torn or damaged flag.
  • If you flag becomes damaged, it should be properly retired.

Washing Your American Flag

When you are not flying your U.S. flag, you should take steps to properly clean and store it. Your flag should be carefully washed when needed. It is recommended that you use a delicate detergent and a gentle setting on your washing machine or that you hand wash it to maintain the vibrant colors of the flag. Lay your flag flat to dry. Do not put your flag in the dryer and do not fly a wet flag. You can also dry clean your flag.

Storing Your U.S. Flag

When storing your flag you have several options. If you use your flag regularly you can fold it into a triangle. To do that, fold the flag length-wise twice making sure the blue field of stars is visible. Then fold the flag into a triangle bringing the striped corner to the open edge and bringing it inward. Repeat this step until the end of the flag. Only the blue field of stars should be visible.

If you display your flag less often you will want to avoid creating wrinkles and folds, so lay it flat or keep it in a tube. The key here is ensuring the flag does not get damaged in any way. If lying flat, you can place it in a box on unbleached cotton or acid-free paper. (But remember your flag should never touch the ground!) If storing in a tube, wrap your flag in unbleached cotton or acid-free paper before rolling it and placing it in a suitable tube, preferably an archival tube that will maintain the flag’s integrity.

Proper Retirement of an American Flag

If an American flag becomes tattered or worn, it should be properly retired. It should not be thrown away but rather burned or destroyed in a dignified manner. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, there are several organizations that will accept your flags. Here is a brief but not all inclusive list:

American Legion

Veterans of Foreign Wars

Boy Scouts of America

Proper American flag etiquette is more than just a set of rules—it’s a reflection of the deep respect and gratitude we hold for our nation and those who have served to protect it. By understanding and practicing these traditions, we honor the symbol that unites us as Americans. So raise those flags in pride, and show your appreciation for the freedoms it represents!

10 Simple Window Cleaning Tips

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You’ve invested a lot in your windows, so it’s only natural to want to keep them clean and looking their best! The traditional method of using glass cleaner and newspaper or paper towels to clean your dirty windows is no longer considered the best method. It’s time to embrace more effective cleaning techniques. Keeping your windows clean not only enhances the look of your home but improves visibility and natural light. A thorough cleaning routine can also boost curb appeal while extending the lifespan of your windows by preventing the buildup of dirt, grime, and hard water stains.

So without further ado, here are some professional cleaning tips to help you achieve spotless, clean windows.

Choose the Right Cleaning Solutions

That bright blue window cleaner in your cupboard is indeed one of the oldest cleaners on the market, but it’s also one of the worst things to put on your windows. Why? Because it leaves behind a waxy, streaky, and hard-to-remove film. Each time you use run-of-the-mill glass cleaner on your windows, that film builds up and spreads the dirt and dust, making your view hazier with each use.

You should also stay away from harsh chemicals like ammonia, which can be dangerous to work with. Instead, clean your windows with a solution of warm water and gentle dish soap (like Dawn). About one bucket of warm water and an ounce of dish soap will create a cleaning solution far more effective – and far more affordable – than the pre-packaged alternatives.

…and the Right Cleaning Tools

To achieve streak-free, clean windows you’ll need to use the right cleaning tools. Instead of using paper towels, which often leave lint and debris, try a microfiber cloth. A two-bucket cleaning system is also essential to prevent the reapplication of dirty water. One bucket will hold cleaning solution, and a second bucket will hold plain water. You should also consider buying a high-quality squeegee for better water removal and to prevent hard to remove streaks.

A professional window cleaner using a squeegee on windows as he's cleaning.

Using the right tools will help you get a streak-free finish.

Prepare Your Windows before Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning, it’s always best to do some prep work for best results. You can start by cleaning dirt, dust and other debris from the frames and sills with a vacuum or soft cleaning brush. If your window tracks are dirty, they’ll accumulate grime faster, so cleaning them thoroughly is crucial. You should use warm, soapy water to wipe down your window frames and tackle stubborn stains. For smudges or marks, use a non-abrasive cleaner.

A trick we like to recommend for deep cleaning window tracks is to use a soft bristle vacuum cleaner attachment. Vacuuming can remove large debris. Follow up with a damp soft cloth to remove finer dirt.

Use the Right Window Cleaning Methods

When cleaning the glass, technique is everything! Dip the microfiber cloth into your bucket of window cleaning solution, wash your windows in a zig-zag motion to help prevent streaks, and then rinse the cloth in a second bucket of plain water. When cleaning big windows, use a squeegee for a cleaner finish. You should try to clean your windows starting from top to bottom to avoid dripping water and cleaning solution onto areas you’ve already cleaned.

Give Your Window Screens Some Love Too

Just like the glass in your windows, your window screens also need regular maintenance to keep them dirt- and dust-free. A great way to remove loose debris and dust is to use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush attachment. For tougher grime, you can gently scrub the clean window screens with a sponge, warm water, and a mild detergent. But be careful to only use light pressure; window screens are delicate and may bend easily.

We also suggest removing the screens completely from the frame so you can wet them down outside. Lay them flat and scrub both sides using a soft brush before rinsing. Make sure to let the clean window screens dry completely before reinstalling so that you don’t risk any buildup of mold and mildew.

Use a microfiber cloth to avoid damaging the finish of your windows.

Apply a Little Elbow Grease—or Dish Soap

When it comes to more stubborn stains and dirt, you should consider using a few drops of dish soap directly on the dirty area, then gently scrubbing it with a microfiber cloth. A brush with harder bristles might also help with tougher spots on window frames, though you shouldn’t use brushes that are so firm they can scratch the finish. As mentioned above, harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can also cause damage, so it’s best to avoid them.

Take Care When Drying

Though cleaning gets top billing, drying your windows can be just as important to avoiding water spots and streaks. When you’re finished with your washing regimen, grab a dry microfiber cloth and a squeegee to wipe away any remaining residue and to remove excess water. Chamois cloths are another great tool for drying, as they are very absorbent and lint-free. And don’t forget to dry your clean windows in direct sunlight, if possible, for a spot- and streak-free finish.

Add the Final Touches

Once you’re done with washing and drying, you should always carefully inspect your work so you can spot-clean any streaks or stains you missed. If you didn’t already, you should also use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your window frames and ledges to remove dust and excess dirt. We recommend using a coffee filter to wipe down clean windows to help achieve a completely lint-free and streak-free finish.

Perform Year-Round Maintenance

Performing regular window maintenance is critical to keeping your windows in their best condition. You should make a plan to clean your windows at least twice annually – and maybe more than that if you live in an area with high levels of pollen. Cleaning your windows not only keeps them looking good, but keeps them functional and sound. It gives you a chance to inspect your windows and the surrounding frame and sill to make sure there’s no rot, separation or other issues that could lead to poor insulation or the need for window replacement.

A window being cleaned by a telescoping cleaning tool.

A telescoping window cleaning tool can help with those hard to reach areas.

Don’t Risk Your Safety

Now that you’re ready to clean your windows, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that washing windows can be dangerous! If you’re cleaning windows yourself, always have someone stabilize your ladder to mitigate your risk of a fall. Even professionals use the buddy system when working on hard to reach interior and exterior windows.

For hard to reach windows, you should think about investing in a telescoping window cleaning tool. These kinds of tools make it much easier to clean high up windows without a ladder. If you have a multi-story home, you might also consider hiring a professional window cleaner, who will safely and thoroughly clean those hard to reach spots.

Now Sit Back and Enjoy the View!

Remember, it’s important to clean your windows, not only to improve how your home looks but for a healthier indoor environment with more natural light. If you follow these essential cleaning tips, it will be easier to keep your windows nice and clean year-round. A little effort goes a long way in enhancing your home’s appearance and maximizing your view!

That’s why Door Store and Windows customers get a voucher for Sunshine Window Company with the purchase of eight or more replacement windows. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your windows, there’s no better time. Contact us to get started today with a free consultation with one of our window specialists!

For more helpful tips, visit our window and door operation, care and maintenance maintenance page or check out the video below.

Marvin Windows also has some tips you can review HERE. 

How to Choose Windows That Best Complement Your Home’s Style

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Selecting the right windows for your home is a big decision. Whether you’re replacing old windows or choosing windows for a new home, finding the best solution involves balancing practicality with aesthetics. You want windows that not only enhance the function of your space but also boost your curb appeal. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind…

Stay True to Your Home’s Design

Many homes are built with specific window types that align with their architectural design. If you are unsure about which windows to choose, looking at your original windows is a great place to start. Most homes have a consistent style, so you’ll likely want to preserve that visual harmony when selecting new windows.

However, this does not mean you cannot make changes. For example, while double-hung and casement windows serve different purposes, they can sometimes be interchanged without disrupting the home’s overall look.

Learn How Different Window Types Function

Understanding how different window types work is essential to finding the ones that best fit your home. There are lots of functions to explore, each offering unique benefits in terms of ventilation, ease of use, and maintenance. The best way to research these options is to visit a showroom like we have at Door Store and Windows, where you can see and operate the windows firsthand. Feeling the smooth glide of a slider, testing the tilt-in feature of a double-hung window, or experiencing the easy crank of a casement window can help you determine what works best for your space and needs.

This window is an awning window. It hinges at the top. Simply turn the handle upward and push out.! Made by Marvin.

You should also walk through your home and envision where your ideal windows might go. Consider how each room functions and what type of window would enhance its comfort and style. It’s also crucial to consider how you plan to use your windows. If you struggle to reach and open a window, a casement window that cranks outward can be a great solution. Another common switch is to replace a double-hung window over a kitchen sink with a casement or awning window for easier accessibility. These changes can improve functionality, while keeping with your home’s overall look.

We also suggest bringing a design consultant along to help you visualize the possibilities. A window and door replacement professional can provide insights on placement, sizing, and which window types complement your home’s architecture. Once you’ve identified your functional preferences, your window consultant can guide you in selecting the right design aesthetics to ensure that your new windows not only perform well but also enhance your home’s overall look.

On the second floor of this home there are two casement windows flanking an awning window. On the first floor, the bay window contains a large picture window flanked by two double hung windows. Unlike the double hung windows, the picture window is not operable. Its grill pattern was designed to mimic to the pattern of the double hung windows, especially the check rail. (A check rail is the part where the upper window sash and bottom sash meet.) The bay window also looks like the double hung window on the right side of the house.

Mix Window Types While Maintaining Design Consistency

When mixing window types, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your choices are consistent with the design of your home. If you prefer casement windows to double-hung, consider grille patterns and design elements that mimic the original windows. Also, some architectural styles are better suited to specific window types. For example, Craftsman and Victorian homes typically do not blend well with modern designs. On the other hand, traditional colonial homes can be modernized with larger glass panes and fewer grilles that still maintain the classic look. Modern homes often focus on open spaces and large expanses of glass, so adding decorative grilles can interfere with their sleek, minimalist design, while farmhouse-style homes offer flexibility, allowing for both traditional and modern window choices.

Ultimately, the decision is yours, and most manufacturers today can create custom windows to fit your personal style.

This bay window is featured in the living room. It contains a picture window flanked by two smaller, double hung windows. Unlike the double hung windows, the picture window is not operable. The original windows of this cottage style home looked similar to the new replacement windows.

Find the Right Window Consultant

When making such an important investment in your home, consulting with an expert can be invaluable. A qualified window and door consultant will not only have technical knowledge but also an understanding of design aesthetics. They will listen to your needs and provide tailored recommendations that balance function and style.

If you’d like to learn more about choosing windows that complement your home design, give us a call at 502-822-5424 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

 

 

 

 

DSW Q&A: How to Choose the Right Grids & Grilles for Your Windows

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Grids or grilles (also called muntins or divided lites) are decorative strips of wood, metal, or vinyl that divide a window into smaller sections. Selecting the right ones for your windows is an important decision that can significantly impact your home’s overall look and feel. That’s why we’ve answered some of the most common questions from homeowners concerning the basics of grids and grilles and how to best achieve the aesthetic you’re going for.

While grilles are purely decorative and not functionally necessary, the right style and configuration can definitely add to your curb appeal. They can lend a traditional, historic feel, or a modern, minimalist look, depending on your preference. We usually suggest maintaining consistency, especially when replacing existing windows in an older home. You may even consider replicating existing grille patterns to preserve the original aesthetic. If you’re looking to achieve a different visual effect, you can experiment with changing the grille configuration, such as using fewer individual window panes or lites to create a more open, unobstructed view.

What are the different types of divided lites?

True Divided Lites (TDLs), which were the hallmark of older windows, feature individual panes of glass that are each held in place by wood muntins and form the window’s grid-like framework. The beauty of TDLs lies in the prism effect that you get from the individual panes of glass being on slightly different planes. Generally windows with TDLs were not manufactured in a factory, rather by hand in the field and often had wavy glass.    Although historically correct and beautiful, they are not as energy efficient as Simulated Divided Lites (SDLs).  SDLs consist of two panes of glass with a spacer bar sandwiched between the glass. Permanent muntins are then affixed to the exterior and interior of the glass, to create the divided lite look. Other grille options include Grilles Between the Glass (GBGs) and removable grilles.  Although less traditional, both allow the homeowner to clean the glass easily.  However, removeable grilles tend to be fragile and deteriorate over time due to sun exposure and use.  Ultimately, the decision between  what type of grilles to use comes down to personal preference.

Grilles can enhance a home’s curb appeal.

Do I need grilles on the top and bottom of a double hung window?

Whether you should add grilles to both the top and bottom sashes of a double-hung window is often dictated by the architectural style and age of the home. In older, more traditional homes like a classic Craftsman, you’ll typically see grilles only on the top sash, preserving the expansive, unobstructed look of the lower sash.   If you are undecided as to the type of divided lites or the actual pattern, an architect or designer can help you make the decision.  Ultimately, whether you opt for a top-only grille or extend it to the bottom sash or no grilles at all, it comes down to personal taste. It’s your house after all!

Should the grilles on all your windows be the same or is it ok to mix and match?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best approach often depends on the specific layout and design of your home. While matching the grids across all your windows can create a cohesive, symmetrical look, that may not always be the optimal choice if you have a mix of different window types like casement and double-hung. The reality is, these varying window styles will inherently have a different aesthetic, and trying to force a uniform grid pattern may end up not looking right.

Example of a home with grilles on the windows.

An even more important consideration is the view—if you’re blessed with an incredible vista through certain windows, you may want to minimize or even eliminate the grids in those locations to better enjoy the scenery. After all, the primary purpose of windows is to let in natural light and provide a connection to the outdoors, so why mar that with an unnecessary grid pattern? Ultimately, it comes down to balancing the overall visual harmony of your home’s exterior with the practical needs and unique features of each individual window. A thoughtful, selective approach to grids can help you achieve that perfect blend of form and function.

 If you’d like to learn more about grilles or any other window feature, give us a call at 502-822-5424 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

 

 

 

 

How to Choose the Right Size Holiday Wreath for Your Door

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Wondering how big your holiday wreath should be? We asked the experts at Digs Home & Garden.

Need a new door to hang that wreath on? Give us a call at 502-896-1717 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

Common Door Problems and What You Can Do to Fix Them

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As the adage goes, when one door closes another opens. But what happens if your door sticks? 😉 Seriously though, issues with the doors in your home can be a headache. Here are some of the most common problems homeowners face, as well as some tips on how to remedy them.

A Sticking Door – No, we’re not talking about the grandkids getting their popsicle juice all over the doorknob. What we’re referring to is a door that doesn’t open easily. So, what exactly causes a door to stick? Typically, it’s expansion and contraction of the door slab, often caused by humidity or other environmental factors. Usually when this happens the door will eventually return to normal operation with the seasonal changes in temperature.

However, sometimes the you may need to remove the door slab and trim it on the hinge side or bottom—or sometimes both. If you trim the hinge side, the hinges will have to be re-mortised so they’ll sit flush in the new spot. If the bottom is trimmed, you’ll need to either replace the door sweep or reinstall the existing one. Needless to say this kind of intricate work—especially on an entry door—is best left done to a professional.

A Door That Swings Open on Its Own – Unless you’ve got a bad case of poltergeists (we’re kidding!), a door that swings open is caused by the door not being plumb. A simpler way to put it is the door is tilted in an open position. The best way to fix this is to remove and reinstall the frame so you can re-plumb and level it to ensure a better fit.

A Drafty Door – Can you feel air coming in around the edge of your door?  This is caused by a bad seal. Weather stripping can get torn, smashed or broken over time. A warped door will also cause it not to seal. If the door is not warped, then just replacing the weather stripping might fix the issue. However, if the door is warped, additional weather stripping might be needed or you could try adjusting the hinges so the door fits more evenly within the frame.

A Sticking Lock – When your lock is sticking, it can be either the door or the lock that’s the issue. It’s possible that the strike plates in the frame are not aligned with the locks, due to the door settling or sagging. A way to resolve this issue is to move the strike plates so they are again aligned with the locks. A simpler reason a lock might stick is it needs lubrication. You can squirt a small amount of dry lubricant or graphite powder inside the slot where the key goes, insert the key, then lock and unlock the door a few times to ensure the entire locking mechanism is lubricated.

 Are you having other issues with your doors or are you interested in replacing the ones you have? Give us a call at 502-896-1717 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

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 502-896-1717 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. 

Just the Right Fit: Finding the Perfect Door for Your Space

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When configuring doors for your home, it’s important to consider a few important factors before making a decision. Which way should the doors swing? Should they slide instead? What about single versus double doors? Here are some tips and tricks to consider when planning your entryway so you can make the best choices for your space.

Swinging Doors

The most common door in the Louisville, Kentucky and the surrounding area is an inswing door, which opens inward or into the house. Variations can include single or double doors or even a patio unit, combining a fixed door panel with a swinging panel. When using inswing doors throughout the house, it’s important to account for traffic flow and furniture layout so the inward swing doesn’t interfere with the living space.

If traffic flow or furniture do turn out to be an issue, another option is an outswing door. These doors pull open to the outside of the house, though you’ll still need to have room on the stoop or porch for the door to swing unimpeded. Not all outswing doors are equal. Marvin builds an outswing door which manages water infiltration. Other manufacturers do not. Make sure to  check the manufacturer’s door warranty to understand your risk.

 

Sliding Doors

In situations where neither an inswing nor outswing is ideal, you might consider a sliding door, which has no swing at all. Instead, it slides open and shut, maximizing space. Additionally, for interior entries in newer homes or new builds, pocket doors can be created to hide the door inside the wall when not needed. For spaces where the walls cannot accommodate pocket doors (and privacy is not a major concern), barn door concepts are a great option. These doors hang from specialized hardware, allowing them to easily slide over the adjoining wall when open.

 

Finding the Right Fit

Depending on your preference, there are many ways to configure your entryway beyond the classic look. Front doors with sidelites can be replaced with double doors, for example. One current trend is removing sidelites and transoms and replacing them with a double door configuration that spans the full width and height of the entry, creating a truly grand entrance. Due to the complexity of this entryway configuration, you’ll likely need to work with a custom door manufacturer and expert installation team like Door Store and Windows to get the job done right. The results though will speak for themselves!

 

Before picture of a client’s door with sidelites and transom. They wanted to replace the entry with something a bit more modern. 

Look at this transformation. Sidelites and transom – gone!

Accommodating ADA Requirements

As our population gets older, requests for entryway thresholds that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have become much more common. Ordinarily, door thresholds are 1 1⁄2” to 2” high, which can be difficult to navigate for those with trouble walking or who are in wheelchairs. ADA thresholds are much lower—1⁄4” to 3⁄4” high—to make it easier to enter. However, these thresholds are not rated against wind and water infiltration and require adequate overhead protection and cover to minimize water seepage. Often, it can be more cost effective to designate one entry for ADA-compliance to avoid the possible need for major structural additions and changes.

Ready to learn more about choosing the perfect door for your space? Give us a call at 502-896-1717 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

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 502-896-1717 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.