Summer is a great time for outdoor fun and relaxation, but it can be challenging when you want your home to feel like a comfortable refuge from the heat. Cranking up the air conditioner isn’t always the best solution. Whether you’re trying to save money or reduce your carbon footprint, there are still ways to keep your home cool. Here are some simple tips to help you survive the summer heat without relying on an air conditioner.

1. Use fans.

2. Use awnings or shutters on south and west-facing windows.

3. Check for air leaks.

4. Use light-colored paint.

5. Use window coverings.

6. Increase your green space.

7. Replace single-pane glass.

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To keep your outside windows clean, there are a few steps to take before the actual cleaning process begins:

• Clear the areas around the windows both inside and out. All dust and debris should be removed.
• Remove and clean the screens. You cannot get your windows clean if the screens are still on!
• Gather your cleaning supplies.
• Clean on a cloudy day. While a sunny day might be warmer, the glare from the sun can hide the imperfections you are trying to remove. Additionally, the sun can dry the cleaner onto the glass, leaving hard-to-remove streaks.

Here is our list of recommended tools:

• Stepladder
• Wash bucket
• Sponge
• Squeegee (optional – better for larger windows)
• Soft broom or cloth
• Vacuum
• Scrubbing sponge or scraper
• Window cleaning solution (we prefer a solution of water and vinegar)
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• Soft cotton towel for cleanup

Steps to clean your windows:

• Remove the screens.
• Your windows should be completely clear of dirt and dust before you apply the cleaning solution. Vacuum around the frames first, then spray the glass down with water to ensure all the dirt is gone.
• Using your cleanser of choice, go over the surface of the window with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge mop. Make sure the cloth is clean and dry before use!
• Rinse off the windows once more.
• Wipe the windows dry with the squeegee. Be sure to dry the squeegee off between each pass. For smaller windows, it may be better to use a microfiber towel instead.
• For stubborn stains, dirt, or bird droppings, saturate the spots with a solution of vinegar and water and let stand for several minutes. You can then scrub it out, but be careful not to use a harsh cloth that could scratch the window.
• Spray, clean, and dry your screens before replacing them.

Did you know that our windows easy to clean and maintain? 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.

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PROS

• THE WEATHER. Typical weather conditions in summer allow for a higher quality installation. Because there’s less damp and no rain or snow, a summer installation also means a cleaner house.
• UV PROTECTION. The sun shines brighter during these months, which means that new windows will be more efficient at blocking UV rays from entering your home. This will help prevent fading of carpets, furniture and other items and protect you and your family.
• ENERGY EFFICIENCY. If you want to save money on energy bills each month then replacing old windows with new energy efficient ones should be high on your list of priorities. Energy efficient windows will reduce cooling costs in summer and heating costs in winter.
• FASTER INSTALL. More daylight hours and better weather means faster completion of the install. Installation is less likely to interfere with daily routines and children’s schedules like school.
• COLD WEATHER READY. Waiting until fall or winter to replace windows means having to live with drafty windows through those seasons until your new windows are in.
• PERFECT FOR SEALANTS AND CAULKING. Mid temperatures and warm, dry weather are what you want for sealants and caulking to apply and dry their best. However, extreme temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit will prevent caulking from curing well.

CONS

• EXTREME HEAT. On days of extreme heat, installers can’t work during the afternoon. That may be rare in Alaskan summers, but it can happen which will mean prolonging the length of your installation. The same applies for homeowners as well. It’s not the best idea to paint or stain window trim when the sun’s at its peak. You’ll have to leave it to the morning or evening.
• YOUR HOUSE CAN HEAT UP. But you can take steps to cool your home down. If you’re having windows installed and heat from the sun is entering the room where installation is taking place, you can close the door to that room to keep the rest of your house cool.
• FOREST FIRE SMOKE. While not frequent, forest fires do happen. If you’re having your windows replaced during smoky conditions, doing the above will help prevent smoke from entering your home.
• BUSY SEASON. Summer is peak home renovation time. You may want to consider scheduling an install for the milder months of fall and spring to give you the advantage of increased installation availability.
• BUGS. Of course, removing windows gives insects and mosquitoes the chance to enter your home. This is especially true if you live near trees, shrubs, or water sources where they tend to congregate. But burning insect coils or candles or setting up an insect trap in the room should help keep them at bay.

Regardless of which time of year works best for you, know that Renewal by Andersen installers are Certified Master Installers with years of experience who take pride in setting the highest standard in the market. 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 The Pros and Cons of Replacing Windows in Summer appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Condensation in Summer

During the bright summer season, outdoor air is typically very humid while indoor temperatures are kept relatively cool. Condensation occurs when moisture-filled air comes in contact with cold surfaces, such as window panes and around the external door, and releases water which ends up collecting as droplets. 

Condensation on Windows

Condensation on windows during the summer is mostly a visual issue and does not necessarily indicate a problem with weatherstripping or the window seal. Moreover, a splash of extra water drops on the outside surface of a window replacement unit is not detrimental since it already often gets wet from rainfall. As outdoor temperatures rise, the condensation should disappear soon after.

Role of Low-E Coating

If the indoor temperature is below the outdoor temperature, the low-E coating on a window will allow the temperature of the outside glass to drop. On the other hand, if the outdoor temperature is colder than the indoor temperature, the low-E coating will allow the external glass to get colder. All of these mean that windows with Low-E coatings tend to develop more condensation than inefficient windows. This proves that your windows are energy-efficient and performing according to its function.  

Planning to give your exterior home an upgrade? Turn to Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska for a smooth and stress-free experience! Our team offers professional sliding patio doors and replacement windows services to residential clients in and around Anchorage, AK. To set an appointment, give us a call or fill out our contact form. 

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