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1. Before moving furniture and items, it’s a good idea to take a picture with your phone to remember where things go.
2. Move all furniture and obstacles from around the window and/or door areas by 2-3 feet. If large items are near the window, protect them with drop cloths. Use furniture pads or blankets when moving items to prevent scratches and dents.
3. Cut any branches or shrubs that are blocking access to a window or door.
4. Removing window coverings such as curtains, blinds and shutters will help prevent damage during installation. If possible remove curtain rods from windows. If not, make sure to cover them to protect them from dust and debris.
5. If you have picture frames or wall art on the same wall as the windows and doors, remove them. They may get damaged by vibrations.
6. To keep things from getting damaged or broken, cover or remove decorative items, breakables, and plants. If it isn’t possible to move them out of the way completely, put them in drawers or closets so they’re out of sight.
7. Be sure to remove any electrical cords that run through the area being worked on, and create a clear path for traffic in and out of your home during installation.
8. Disconnect any alarms that are connected to your windows or doors.
9. Make sure that the area surrounding the window is clean so that dust, pollen and dirt won’t mix with the caulk or sealant.
10. Cover your floors with drop cloths to protect them from all the dust.
11. Close off rooms where work will be taking place so that dust doesn’t get into other parts of your home.
12. Keep children and pets out of the way for their safety.

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.

Download our handy Install Day Prep Infographic to have on hand!

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

1. They don’t open and close the way they should

Windows that stick when you try to open or close them, or that have to be forced shut, happen when they have poorly installed weather stripping and don’t seal properly when closed. This allows air to escape through the frame and can allow moisture into the house during rainy seasons or winter months.

2. There’s a draft

If you’re feeling a draft of air coming in around the edges of your windows, it usually means that the seals are faulty through bad weather stripping or faulty caulking.

3. High energy bills

The thicker the glass on your window, the more insulated and energy efficient it’s going to be. Unfortunately, many older homes have single-pane windows that don’t provide enough insulation from outside temperatures. If this is the case, upgrading to double-pane windows will help significantly improve energy efficiency.

4. There’s fogging or condensation

We’ve all seen it: fogging inside between the panes of a window, or condensation on the glass inside or outside. It’s usually caused by poor insulation around the window frame, such as faulty weather stripping, or the loss of air between the two panes of glass.

5. There’s water damage

Water damage occurs from condensation and leaks. If the window wasn’t properly installed or the weather stripping is faulty, a window may leak water into the frame or wall, which can lead to mold and mildew growth, peeling paint or wallpaper, and more significant damage.

6. Window panes are cracked, warped, or chipped

If the glass in your window is cracked or chipped, it’s time to replace it. A broken pane of glass can be dangerous if not replaced promptly because it poses a risk for injury. Cracked or broken windows also let in more of the outside environment and make it easier for your home to be broken into.

7. Window frames are rotten

If the wood around your window is soft, spongy, or waterlogged, it’s rotten. This can happen when windows aren’t properly sealed and too much moisture has come into contact with the wood. Check the window frame where it meets the wall or siding; if there’s rot or decay, you’ll need to replace the entire unit.

8. They’re outdated and unappealing

Sometimes windows may function well, but they look old and unattractive. If you want to improve your home’s curb appeal, we recommend replacing your windows with our custom-made windows. We offer a variety of made-to-order style and color options, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.

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 8 Signs Your Windows Need to be Replaced appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Here are recommendations from our window experts for picking the best patio doors for cold climates.

There are many types of patio doors with different styles to choose from. So it’s important to think about how you want to use your indoor and outdoor space. A few things to consider include:

• How do you live and entertain?
• Do you have a pool, garden, outdoor living space you’d like to access from your patio doors?
• Do you have pets that go in and out?
• Do you need to access the area even when there’s snow outside?

Along with the use of your space, you’ll need to be mindful of the actual dimensions of the room and outdoor area where you’re installing the new patio door. Do you have room for a door to swing in? Swing out? If space is no issue, you will have more options to choose from, but if space is an issue, a sliding door is your best bet.

Sliding patio doors

Sliding doors are the most common type of patio door for good reason. They don’t take up much space and there’s no need to worry about inswing or outswing. A high-quality, professionally installed sliding patio door will also keep cold weather out and heat in during cold winter months.

Sliding doors allow a lot of natural light into any space year-round while providing a clear, unobstructed view of your backyard and Alaska backdrop. Sliding doors with screens allow for letting in fresh air while keeping the elements from coming into your home.

Renewal by Anderson of Alaska carries three types of sliding doors:

Perma-Shield® sliding doors have a contemporary, streamlined design that allows you to enjoy the widest possible view with maximum glass area. That means making the most of your Alaskan views year-round.

Frenchwood® sliding doors have the same aesthetic appeal as standard French doors, but the sliding door design keeps your space more open than a hinged door. They are a great selection for a traditional-style home and smaller rooms/spaces.

Narroline® sliding patio doors have a vinyl-clad wood, low-maintenance exterior, and a stainable natural pine interior. A slim, smart design distinguishes our Narroline sliding patio door from other contemporary alternatives. It has a modern look but features the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that Renewal by Andersen is known for.

French patio doors

If you have a more traditional style of home, want a lot of light, and have the extra room for an inswing or outswing patio door… you may want to consider French doors.

French patio doors are available with inswing or outswing styles. Inswing doors are a common choice in cold weather climates where there’s a lot of snow. It’s hard to open a French door into a snowbank if you haven’t had time to shovel and, in terms of cold weather climate safety, an inswing door is a good choice for quick exits in case of emergency.

Renewal by Anderson’s Frenchwood® hinged patio doors is built with the ability to choose a door that swings out or swings in. Choosing an outswing door can save up to 28 square feet of interior space, while an inswing design is better for going outside to a snowy deck or yard without letting the cold and snow billow into your home.

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Want additional guidance on selecting the best patio doors for cold weather? Renewal by Andersen of Alaska’s team of experts can help. Reach out to discuss any questions you have, and get a free quote for your project!

The post Which Type of Door is the Best Patio Door for Cold Weather? appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

1. Re-seal drafty windows with caulk

Applying new caulk around the glass panes is a popular go-to for improving draft problems. This can be especially helpful if any of the existing seals have cracks, or if you can feel cold air when you’re near the window itself. Start by choosing a silicone caulk that matches your window or your trim. Then scrape off the old caulk, cleaning off any of the debris once you’re finished. Fill the gaps between your window panes and the window frame and let the caulk set for 24 hours.

2. Add weatherstripping to windows

Adding weatherstripping to windows helps close any small gaps that may cause drafts. Start by measuring the outermost seam of your window frames, this is the seam between the window and your wall. Then, cut four pieces of weatherstripping to size—one for each side of the window. Remove the adhesive backing from the weatherstripping, and press into the window seam to seal gaps. It’s as easy as that!

3. Apply clear insulation film

Window insulation film is a popular (and very inexpensive) option that basically acts as a storm window, which can be applied with adhesive or magnetic tape. To prepare for installation, wipe down and measure your window sill, trim, and frame. You’ll need tape dimensions for the size of your window -1 inch, and film dimensions for the size of your window and frame +10 inches.

Here’s how to apply it to your windows:

• Cut and measure the adhesive or magnetic tape that comes with the window insulation film kit. Apply adhesive tape to your whole window, leaving a 1-inch space from your window from the window frame edge.
• Cut your plastic film and add 10 inches to the height and width of your window, so when applied, the film goes beyond window glass—approximately 5-inches on each side.
• Press the plastic film firmly to your pre-taped window frame starting at the top and working down to the bottom of the window without leaving any gaps.
• Grab your hairdryer, select high heat, then blow-dry the plastic to smooth out wrinkles in the insulation film.

4. Cover window sills with draft snakes

Draft snakes (also called draft dodgers) have been around for a long time, and for good reason. A homemade or store-bought draft snake is a long, skinny fabric tube that is filled with rice or stuffing material. You just place them at the bottom of a door or window sill to block cold air from coming in. Draft snakes are very affordable and easy to make, especially if you reuse fabric (such as denim, corduroy, or an old blanket) that you already have on hand.

5. Hang insulating thermal curtains

One last way to block cold air from entering your home is to use insulating thermal curtains. Thermal curtains are engineered with two pieces of heavy fabric that have a layer of foam in-between. If you’re unable to find thermal curtains, any curtain that is made with a heavier, thick weave fabric can still help your house feel more comfortable, cozy, and warm.

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We hope these affordable and easy tips to insulate your windows are helpful for you. For more advice, check out Money-Saving Tips on How To Winterize & Insulate Your Sliding Glass Door to help insulate your patio doors!

If you decide you’re ready to update your home with new efficient windows, reach out to Renewal by Andersen’s window experts to get a free quote for your project!

The post 5 Tips on How to Insulate Windows for Winter appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Professional Results

The term “professional,” in terms of workmanship, is synonymous with quality. If you only need one reason why you should have your windows replaced by professionals, this is it. Window replacement is an intricate process that requires skills that can only be obtained through hands-on training, not through watching online videos. These skills also give professionals the ability to make sure that small yet crucial details, like proper alignment and caulk application, are done correctly.

Access to Better Products

Taking the DIY route means you’re limited to off-the-shelf replacements or online orders that may or may get damaged during shipping or not matching what was described. On the other hand, professionals have access to exclusive products, and, in our case, custom replacement windows. This gives you more control over every aspect of the window: shape, style, size, and finishes.

Zero Safety Risks

DIY window installment can be dangerous if you need to replace upper-story windows. In fact, anything that involves climbing exterior walls presents this risk. Fortunately, professionals like us have safety training and equipment that helps eliminate such risks.

Savings on Installation Cost

It may sound counterintuitive since savings are supposed to be one of the pros of DIY installation. However, if you don’t usually do your own home improvement projects, you will need to purchase additional equipment, such as caulk gun, power drill and spirit level, as well as safety gear. There’s also the matter of installation mistakes: you will have to cover the cost of corrections out of your own pocket. Comparatively, professional window installers have all the tools and equipment needed for the job and have the workmanship warranty in case of installation mistakes.

Renewal by Andersen of Alaska is your leading provider of replacement windows. Give us a call or visit our website here. We serve customers in Anchorage, AK, as well as surrounding communities including Kenai Peninsula, The Valley, and Fairbanks.

The post Reasons Why You Should Leave Window Replacement to the Pros appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

About the Award

Winners of the Super Service Award are determined via a stringent process. In order to qualify, businesses must have a minimum number of reviews posted on their Angie’s List profile. They must also be in good standing with Angie’s List.

Additionally, the criteria for the award include passing background checks and abiding by Angie’s List operational guidelines. Businesses must maintain an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade and review period grade as well. Typically, they are graded on an A through F scale in several areas including professionalism, price and punctuality.

Renewal by Andersen of Alaska, along with its team of highly skilled window installers, is proud to have met such strict requirements. We owe much of our gratitude to the customers who have trusted us and given us the chance to provide them with quality results. We’re also thankful to those who have shared their positive experience with us on the platform.

About Angie’s List

Angie’s List is a trusted online review platform that connects consumers to the finest service professionals. It aims to improve the local service experience for customers and service professionals by providing unique and reliable tools and support.

The platform offers more than 10 million verified reviews in over 700 service categories helping its members make well-informed decisions when hiring a service professional.

For several years, Renewal by Andersen Alaska has been passionate about providing quality replacement windows and doors. Call us at (907) 308-7784 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We serve clients in Anchorage, AK, and nearby areas.

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