Five benefits of a winter installation include:

1. Better protection from the elements.

Replacing windows and doors in the winter helps protect against harsh weather conditions. Winter storms often bring strong winds, snow, freezing temps, and other debris that can damage old or worn-out windows or your home. Modern models are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions, so they’ll last longer and keep you safer.

2. Improved energy efficiency.

One of the main reasons to replace windows and doors in the winter is improved energy efficiency. If your windows are older or damaged, they may release heat from inside your home, leading to higher energy bills. Newer, more energy-efficient windows will help keep warm air in and cold air out, saving you money.

3. Reduced condensation and other moisture issues.

Another benefit is a reduction in condensation and other moisture issues. During cold weather, humidity levels drop, making installing new windows or doors easier without worrying about moisture build-up inside your home. This also helps prevent mold and mildew growth.

4. Greater scheduling availability.

Since installations can slow down during this season, you’ll have a better chance of scheduling your window or door replacement at the perfect time for you.

5. We’ve mastered winter installations.

With two Certified Master Installers working on the outside and inside of each window, our average installation time is about 5 minutes per window. Our installers work quickly and efficiently—never exposing your home to the harsh elements of winter. We seal off the room we’re working in so you don’t have to worry about heat escaping or the cold affecting your home and the people, pets, and plants inside it. Our process is fast, clean, and safe. Most projects are completed in as little as one day—giving you immediate satisfaction with beautiful new windows that improve the comfort of your home!

Our winter installation system makes it quick and easy. Here’s how it works:

• Our Certified Master Installers seal off the room they’re working in, using zip walls to enclose the area. This keeps pets, plants, and people comfortable in the rest of the home. Zip walls also prevent heat loss and ensure your home will have minimal exposure to the elements.
• We cover and protect floors and furnishings from foot traffic, construction debris, and the harsh winter elements.
• Two installers work on your home’s outside and inside simultaneously.
• The installers work on one window at a time, with each window being installed on average in as little as five minutes.
• Each window is custom-manufactured to 1/8” of the opening so that installers can add additional insulation around the framework once in place, helping maximize energy efficiency.

Take a look at this short video to meet a Renewal by Andersen Certified Master Installer:

We are dedicated to providing outstanding service to our customers. You don’t have to suffer with cold, drafty, and inefficient windows for another winter! Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We proudly serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post All About Winter Window Installation appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Common causes include: 

1. Deteriorating seals: over time, the seals around the window frames can deteriorate, allowing air to enter or escape.
2. Poor window installation: improper installation can leave gaps between the window frame and the wall, creating a pathway for air leakage.
3. Worn weatherstripping: weatherstripping creates a tight seal between the moving parts of a window. When it wears out or becomes damaged, drafts can occur.
4. Single-pane windows: single-pane windows lack the insulating properties of double or triple-pane windows, making them more susceptible to drafts.
5. Structural issues: in some cases, drafts can result from structural problems, such as gaps in the wall or poorly fitting windows.

How Renewal by Andersen can help

We specialize in high-quality replacement windows and doors. Here’s how we can help fix drafty windows:

1. Custom window solutions: our custom-made windows ensure a precise fit in your home. Every window is customized to your precise measurements.
2. Energy-efficient glass: our windows are equipped with advanced glass technology, including low-emissivity coatings and insulating gases, which help reduce drafts and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
3. Durable window frames: our window frames are made with Fibrex®, a patented material that combines wood’s strength with vinyl’s low-maintenance features. This prevents warping and shrinkage, ensuring a tight seal against drafts.
4. Professional installation: our team of certified master installers will ensure that your new windows are correctly installed to eliminate any drafts caused by gaps or other installation errors.
5. Warranty protection: we offer one of the industry’s best warranties, giving homeowners peace of mind that their windows are protected against defects or future draft issues.

Drafty windows are not only uncomfortable but also have a negative impact on your energy bills. If you’re having this problem, you can contact us to learn more about our custom window options, energy-efficient glass, durable frames, and professional installation services. We’ll help eliminate drafts and create a more comfortable and energy-efficient home environment. Feel free to give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We proudly serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post What Causes Drafty Windows? appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Get your home ready for fall by taking care of these simple tasks:

• Check your roof and gutters.

Shingles that are bent, cracked or missing should be replaced. Check for leaks in these areas as well as around chimneys and skylights. You’ll want to address any issues with your roof now rather than deal with water damage in winter. While you’re up there, clear the leaves and debris from your gutters while the weather is still good.

• Clear your yard.

Before the first frost, clean, cover and store all outdoor furniture that won’t react well to cold and snow. Also move barbeques, lawnmowers and other outdoor tools into a shed or garage. Disconnect and drain your outside hose and store it inside.

• Get your HVAC serviced.

It’s a good idea to have your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system inspected and serviced this time of year. You don’t want to be stuck with a dirty filter, which will let allergens into the air around your home during the cooler months. If you have ceiling fans, reverse direction to a clockwise motion to create an updraft that moves warm air down.

• Clean your dryer vent.

All throughout the year, your dryer vent hose has been collecting lint and other items since the last time you took it apart and cleaned it. This can be dangerous if left unattended.

• Clean and weatherproof outside surfaces.

As summer comes to an end, you may want to rent a power washer to clean your patio, driveway, deck, and home exterior. You should also renew weatherproofing on decks, fences, and other exterior structures as well as insulate any pipes in unheated locations.

• Check your home’s exterior for cracks.

To avoid water damage, seal cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior before winter comes. Openings in the structure can let water in where it will freeze, resulting in cracks and mold. Caulk around the areas where masonry meets siding and where pipes or wires enter the house. Don’t delay too long—caulking is best done before it gets too cold.

• Check window and door seals.

Check your windows and doors for drafts, and apply caulk around the frames to cut down on drafts. Make sure the seal between your garage door and the ground is tight, preventing drafts and keeping out small animals. While you’re at it, clean windows of summer grime before cold and rain set in.

Renewal by Andersen’s windows and doors can improve the look, feel, and functionality of your home. Helping you find the right windows to make your home comfortable and energy-efficient is what we do best. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post Get Your Home Fall Ready appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

When you see moisture on your windows, it isn’t necessarily a sign that something is wrong. While interior condensation can sometimes result from a failing windowpane seal, most often, it’s simply a result of humidity in the air. The water you see is condensation from the warm air meeting the cooler glass, like when a cold beverage sweats on a hot summer day.

In fact, condensation may be more noticeable on high-quality windows since they are so energy efficient, indicating that your windows have good tight seals. The things that make homes more energy efficient—weather stripping, high-quality insulation, vapor barriers, and windows and patio doors that reduce air leakage—also lock moisture inside your house.

Moisture is a part of everyday life. Anytime someone takes a shower or cooks, it increases indoor humidity. In Alaska, where the fall and winters are especially cold, it’s important to keep indoor humidity only as high as you need it. When you see interior window condensation, it’s a sign to lower the humidity.

A few quick and easy ways to do this include:

1. Opening the blinds and drapes to let moisture-laden air escape.
2. Raising the air temperature in your home (turning the heat on will decrease relative humidity).
3. Turning on ceiling fans to improve air circulation.
4. Running exhaust fans in the kitchen while cooking and in the bathroom while showering or bathing. Leave the fan running for 15 minutes after you’ve finished to clear out lingering moisture.

It’s important to manage humidity inside your home for its overall health, not just to manage condensation. Excess interior moisture can lead to swelling wood, mold or mildew, musty odors, discoloration, and cracking or blistering paint. Remember that wiping condensation off windows, especially wood or vinyl, is essential. Prolonged condensation can lead to mold, rot, or leaky seals. Use a towel, paper towel, microfiber cloth, or squeegee to wipe away excess moisture.

Want to know more? Take a look at this short video on understanding condensation.

Consider upgrading some of your older windows with new, energy-efficient ones. Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We proudly serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post Condensation Season is Coming appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Some of these benefits include:

1. Better Protection From The Elements

Replacing windows and doors in the winter helps protect against harsh weather conditions. Winter storms often bring strong winds, snow, freezing temps, and other debris that can damage old or worn-out windows. Modern models are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions, so they’ll last longer and keep you safer.

2. Improved Energy-Efficiency

One of the main reasons to replace windows and doors in the winter is improved energy-efficiency. If your windows are older or damaged, they may release heat from inside your home, leading to higher energy bills. Newer, more energy-efficient windows will help keep warm air in and cold air out, saving you money.

3. Reduced Condensation And Other Moisture Issues

Another benefit is a reduction in condensation and other moisture issues. During cold weather, humidity levels drop, making installing new windows or doors easier without worrying about moisture build-up inside your home. This also helps prevent mold and mildew growth.

4. Greater Scheduling Availability

Since installations can slow down during this season, you’ll have a better chance of scheduling your window or door replacement at the perfect time for you.

5. We’ve Mastered Winter Installations

With two Certified Master Installers working on the outside and inside of each window, our average installation time is about 5 minutes per window. Our Certified Master Installers are best-in-class and have perfected the winter installation process. We work quickly and efficiently—never exposing your home to the harsh elements of winter. We also seal off the room we’re working in so you don’t have to worry about heat escaping or the cold affecting your home and the people, pets, and plants inside it. Our process is fast, clean, and safe. Most projects are completed in as little as one day—giving you immediate satisfaction with beautiful new windows that improve the comfort of your home!

To learn more about what’s involved in a winter installation, check out our blog post: Alaska’s Winter Window Installation Experts.

You don’t have to suffer with cold, drafty, and inefficient windows for another winter! When you’re ready to take the first step, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post What Are The Benefits of a Winter Window Installation? appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Our winter installation system makes it quick and easy. Here’s how it works:

• Our Certified Master Installers seal off the room they’re working in, using zip walls to enclose the area. This keeps pets, plants, and people comfortable in the rest of the home. Zip walls also prevent heat loss and ensure your home will have minimal exposure to the elements.
• We cover and protect floors and furnishings from foot traffic, construction debris, and the harsh winter elements.
• Two installers work on both the outside and inside of your home simultaneously.
• The installers work on one window at a time, with each window being installed on average in as little as five minutes.
• Each window is custom-manufactured to 1/8” of the opening so that installers can add additional insulation around the framework once they’re in place, helping to maximize energy-efficiency.

Take a look at this short video to meet a Renewal by Andersen Certified Master Installer:

We are dedicated to providing outstanding service to our customers. We work quickly and efficiently—never exposing your home to the harsh elements of winter. Our projects are completed in as little as one day—giving you immediate satisfaction with beautiful new windows that improve the comfort of your home! You don’t have to suffer with cold, drafty, and inefficient windows for another winter, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post Alaska’s Winter Window Installation Experts appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

More Panes Means a More Energy-Efficient Window

Glass is not the best insulating material. Particularly in the form of windows, a thin sheet of glass between you and an Alaskan winter is not going to do much.

But if you put two sheets of glass together with a layer of gas between them, you now have a great insulating system. Even better, triple-pane glass offers the highest energy-efficiency in windows.

Not All Glass is Made Equal

An insulating layer of gas is great, but there’s more you can do. The type of glass you choose is also important when creating energy-efficient windows.

Low-E4 SmartSun glass is currently the most energy-efficient glass offered by Renewal by Andersen. It’s over 40% more effective as an insulator than uncoated double-pane windows, and it doesn’t noticeably block light. The coating is also designed to be easy to clean and blocks 95% of harmful UV radiation.

With Low-E4 SmartSun glass and triple-pane windows, you can save around 25% on your energy bill over winter and around 18% over the summer.

Getting the Right Fit

Your home warps and settles over time. Shifts in the ground, from subtle movement to earthquakes, will gradually change the shape of the house. This can leave doorways and window frames slightly skewed. This can have two effects on your heating: either this warping will create gaps around a home’s windows, or windows that are mass-produced, one-size-fits-all models simply won’t fit in the space. Either way, you’ll be left with a gap that lets cold air in and hot air out.

At Renewal by Andersen, we precisely measure your windows and produce them to your house’s specifications. We’ll make sure that they fit precisely and are properly weather sealed. This means no more gaps driving your energy bill up.

Did you know that our windows are also ENERGY-STAR® certified? Give us a call or use our online contact form to get in touch today. We’ll come to you for an in-home consultation and work out how we can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars with new Renewal by Andersen windows.

The post Choosing an Energy-Efficient Window for Alaska appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Windows play various important roles, from protecting you from the elements to adding more value to your home. If your windows aren’t in good condition, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible.

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider window replacement in Alaska:

1. Better Energy Efficiency

We’ll be the first to admit that original, historic windows have a certain appeal to them. But, while they look amazing, they aren’t as energy efficient as new windows. And, with heating and cooling costs on the rise, you simply can’t afford to throw money out the window. Replacing your old windows with new ones that offer insulating features such as heat-reflecting low-E coatings can save you between 10% and 25% each year on heating and cooling costs.

2. Old Windows May Cause Harm to Your Home

If your windows are poorly sealed, worn or damaged, they might cause damage to your home. For instance, if your window is poorly sealed, you might lose warm air during winter. A leak in your windows could cause water damage to the wall, furniture, and carpets every time it rains or snows. Window replacement is the most effective action you can take to avoid a situation like this.

3. Reduce Noise

Picture this: you can’t wait to get home and curl up under a blanket after a long, stressful day at work. But instead of the peace and quiet you were hoping for, you are welcomed by the noise of a construction site near your home. You could avoid this scenario entirely by replacing your old windows with dual-pane or laminated glass. This feature can reduce the outside noise, making it easier for you to relax at the end of the day. These windows will reduce how noise is leaving the home as well, so you can pump up the volume without bothering your neighbors.

4. Improve the Air Quality

One of the benefits that often gets forgotten when talking about window replacement is how new windows can improve indoor air quality significantly. If you replace your heating and cooling filters every 30 days, then you will benefit immensely from replacing the old windows in your home. The multi-chamber design of new windows will keep the interior air of your home pure and clear, as it is constantly filtered through your cooling and heating system. 

5. Improved Security

When thinking about home security, most people tend to focus on doors and fences. While all these are important, they seem to forget the fact that their windows are a vital element of home security. Old windows that don’t lock properly are a gold mine for burglars. Window replacement is a great way to ensure that your home is protected from the elements as well as break-ins.

6. More Light

According to recent studies, natural light keeps us healthy and improves our sleep quality. New windows have small frames and large panes compared to old ones, allowing more light to enter your home.

7. Add to Your Home’s Curb Appeal

You’ll be amazed by the difference new windows can make to your home. Not only do they look great, but they also offer great functionality.

8. Increased Home Value

Window replacement is a great investment, especially if you plan to sell the house someday. Nowadays, home buyers look for homes that not only look good but are also energy efficient. Old, drafty windows are a big turn-off, and sellers are usually forced to reduce the price to compensate for the costs of upgrading. According to a report from the National Association of Realtors, homeowners get around 73% of their window replacement investment back when they sell the house.

Even the most expensive windows won’t deliver the look and functionality you expect if they’re not installed properly.  Make sure you work with the right window replacement company to truly benefit from the advantages offered by new windows. If you’re ready to replace your windows, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post Why It’s Important to Replace Old Windows in Your Home appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

How do ice crystals form on windows?

Water vapor is present as moisture in the air, experienced as humidity. In warmer months, you’ll feel a heaviness to the air. In cooler months, when the temperature drops and the windows are closed, that moisture is trapped inside your home and drawn to the window panes where it makes contact with the cold glass and changes from a gas to a liquid. This is experienced as condensation, and when outside temperatures drop further, this condensation freezes and forms into ice crystals.

For more information on indoor humidity and how to manage it, take a look at our previous post, How to Manage Indoor Humidity. For more information on how condensation happens, take a look at our video:

What can happen?

Over time, exposure to ice can cause both aesthetic and structural problems with either the finish and/or frame of your windows. As the frost or ice melts, the liquid can sit along the window frame and discolor the topcoat, crack the paint, rot the wood, and even cause mold and mildew to grow.

How to prevent it?

• Upgrade from single-pane to double- or triple-pane windows. Experiencing ice build-up on windows is more common with single-pane, as double- or triple-pane offers extra insulation from outside temperatures and should prevent the humidity inside your home from coming into contact with freezing outdoor temperatures. In addition, single-pane windows are more prone to frame, wall, and insulation damage as water may run behind the wallboard into the insulation without the double- or triple-pane to capture any excess moisture.
• Keep a towel rolled up on the window sill at night which will collect any water that forms on the glass. Mop up any excess water and replace with a fresh towel the next day.
• Raise the room temperature at night to prevent ice and frost from building up. You may need to use a space heater in a particularly cold room.
• Don’t over-water plants, and keep them in one room.
• Store your firewood outside to prevent moisture from the wood from building up inside.
• Look for leaks in your plumbing and have them repaired. Even a dripping faucet can add moisture to the air.

Ready to replace your windows? Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post How to Prevent Ice Build-Up on Windows appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Here’s a quick checklist to get your house ready for fall:

• Clear your yard. Protect your backyard furniture from the cold and wet by cleaning and covering it and storing it in a dry place. Move outdoor tools such as lawn mowers, grills and barbeques to a shed or garage. Disconnect and drain your outside hose.
• Check your roof and gutters. Look for any shingles that are bent, cracked or missing and replace them. Check for leaks in these areas as well as around chimneys and skylights. While you’re up there, clear the leaves and debris from your gutters.
• Clean and weatherproof outside surfaces. If you want to clean your patio, driveway, deck and home exterior, this is your last chance to rent the power washer you’ll need. You should also renew weatherproofing on decks, fences and other exterior structures as well as insulate any pipes in unheated locations.
• Get your HVAC serviced. Before the cooler months set in, have your heating and air-conditioning system inspected and serviced. You don’t want to be stuck with a dirty filter that will let allergens into the air around your home during the wintertime. If you have ceiling fans, reverse direction to a clockwise motion to create an updraft to move warm air down.
• Check your home’s exterior for cracks. Before fall, winter and spring weather set in, protect your home’s exterior by caulking around areas where masonry meets siding and where pipes or wires enter the house. This will prevent water from getting in, resulting in cracks and mold.
• Check window and door seals. Save money on heating and cooling costs by checking for drafts around the windows and doors. Apply weather stripping or caulk to reduce drafts. While you’re at it, clean your windows of summer grime before the cold weather sets in.

Renewal by Andersen of Alaska provides premier window and patio door products and installation services. To discuss your window replacement options, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

The post How to Prepare Your Home for Fall appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.