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

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

How big is a standard size window?

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

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

Should homeowners be wary of “standard size windows”?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Size and Type

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

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


Location

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

Material and Design

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

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

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

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

 


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

 

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

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

Room with Weather Shield Windows.

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

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

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

 


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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Six Solutions for Drafty Windows This Winter

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

How to Winterize Your Windows:

1) Prepare the Window

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

2) Close and Lock Your Windows

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

3) Caulk

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

4) Weatherstripping

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

5) Reglazing

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

6) Determine need for new windows

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

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

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

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

Are Dark Windows a Trend?

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

Dramatic Effect

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

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

Will They Fade?

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

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

Warranties

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

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

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!