The phrase “quality over quantity” rings true in most cases, but not as much when you think about window replacement. Both are crucial in this type of home improvement project; in fact, the number of new windows you get informs whether or not it is worth the dollar spent. Let the trusted local window installers of Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska explain further below.

Should You Replace Only One or Two Windows?

There is no doubt that window replacement is a significant investment. The actual cost of this project is influenced by a variety of factors, including the method of installation and the type of framing material and glass that come with your windows. With that in mind, many homeowners understandably look for ways to keep the expenses as low as possible, going as far as replacing only one or two of the current windows and keeping the rest intact. However, going this route won’t be cost-effective, as this won’t be enough to boost a home’s energy efficiency and comfort.

Should You Replace All of Your Windows?

Replacing all windows at once isn’t cost-effective as well, but only if you have the budget to pull this off. It’s worth noting that your current windows receive varying levels of damage, thanks to their location and sunlight of exposure. A window replacement contractor may recommend replacing at least five windows, and then having the rest replaced at another time.

What To Consider When Replacing Windows

Taking note of all these, the windows you’re going to replace with new ones should be decided based on the extent of damage. Priority should be given to those with visible rot or broken glass because they pose a safety hazard and aren’t capable of keeping comfort indoors. Those that can’t be opened or closed should also be replaced as well; they won’t be helping ventilate your home, allow energy to escape your home and, worse, put your home’s security at risk.

Get in Touch With Us!

To help you decide on the number of windows that you can replace, it helps to work with a reliable contractor. At Renewal by Andersen of Alaska ,you’ll receive a seamless home improvement experience, through custom replacement windows that are designed to last in the local climate and installation from highly trained experts who always ensure the job is done to the highest standards. Call Anchorage: (907) 205-5100 (Anchorage, AK) or (907) 312-7597 (Fairbanks, AK). You may also fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We serve residents in The Valley and the Kenai Peninsula.

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1. Consistency in Performance

By replacing all your windows at once, you can ensure that every window in your home is of the same quality and performance level. If you were to replace windows one by one, it’s likely that you would have a mix of old and new windows, resulting in inconsistencies in insulation, noise reduction, and overall efficiency. We offer a wide range of high-quality, energy-efficient windows that can be tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences.

2. Energy Efficiency

Replacing all your windows at once allows you to take full advantage of the latest energy-saving technologies and materials. New windows are designed to be highly energy-efficient, with improved insulation and advanced glazing options that reduce heat transfer and drafts. By replacing all your windows, you can ensure maximum energy savings throughout your home, resulting in lower bills and increased comfort year-round.

3. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

Replacing all your windows at once also presents an opportunity to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. Updating your windows can instantly transform the look and feel of both the interior and exterior of your house. We offer a wide range of window styles, colors, and finishes, allowing you to choose windows that complement your home’s architectural style and reflect your personal taste.

4. Convenience and Cost Savings

While replacing all your windows at once might seem like a larger upfront investment, it can actually save you time and money in the long run. By replacing all windows at once, you can minimize repetitive disruptions to your daily routine and depending on the company, save yourself an installation fee for every window. Even better, we offer financing options with our Smart Pay programs, helping you manage the cost of window replacement and making it a more feasible option for many homeowners.

When it comes to window replacement, choosing to replace all your windows at once can offer numerous benefits and advantages. From consistent performance and enhanced energy efficiency to improved aesthetic appeal and cost savings, it’s clear that there’s a compelling case for whole-home window replacement. So, if you’re considering upgrading your windows, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to further explore how replacing your windows can transform your home for the better. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley, Fairbanks, the Kenai Peninsula, and Juno.

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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.

1. Picture Windows

Picture windows are the ultimate choice for unobstructed views and daylighting. With their large, fixed panes of glass, they allow for the maximum amount of natural light to enter your home. These windows are perfect for showcasing beautiful outdoor scenery, as they create a seamless connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces.

2. Casement Windows

Casement windows are known for their excellent ventilation and light-capturing capabilities. These windows are hinged on one side and swing open like a door, allowing for maximum airflow and sunlight when opened fully. When closed, their expansive glass areas provide ample natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Casement windows are a fantastic choice for areas where you want to let the breeze and sunlight in, such as the kitchen, living room, or study.

3. Sliding Windows

Sliding windows, also known as “gliding” windows, are another popular option for daylighting. With their sleek and modern design, they offer a wide viewing area and a smooth gliding operation. Sliding windows are typically made with larger glass panels, allowing copious amounts of light to enter your home. These windows are particularly suitable for spaces that require easy access to the outdoors, such as patios or balconies.

4. Double-Hung Windows

Double hung windows combine the best of both worlds: excellent ventilation and ample daylighting capabilities. These windows have two operable sashes, allowing you to open both the top and bottom for improved airflow. When opened partially or fully, double hung windows can flood your rooms with natural light, brightening up even the darkest corners of your home. Double hung windows are versatile and suitable for various architectural styles, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking both functionality and beauty.

All of the above windows excel at bringing in abundant natural light to illuminate your home and make it feel more spacious and inviting. Consult with professionals, such as Renewal by Andersen, who can provide expert advice and help you choose the best window styles to achieve your daylighting goals. With the right windows, you can enjoy the benefits of a bright and sun-filled home every day. 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 The Four Best Window Styles For Daylighting appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

The good news is that window accidents are easy to prevent. Anyone can take the necessary steps to help keep their family safe and secure. To help you stay safe around windows, we’ve put together a list of our top window safety tips and included some resources below:

1. Keep furniture and other objects away from windows to prevent children from climbing up to them. Children should be taught not to jump on beds or couches and never allowed to play on or near window ledges.
2. When young children are around, make sure windows and doors are locked. Set rules about playing away from windows and patio doors, and make sure they follow these rules. Falling through glass can cause serious or even fatal injuries.
3. To soften the impact of a possible fall, consider planting shrubs or other soft edgings beneath windows.
4. Don’t rely on window screens to prevent falls. These screens are designed to keep insects out, not people. They cannot support a person’s weight, even that of a small child, and will not prevent a fall.
5. When you open a window for ventilation, make sure that young children cannot reach it or open it fully.
6. If you use window guards or restrictors on the interior of your windows, make sure they are operable and can be easily removed. Practice detaching these guards with your children in case of an emergency. Keep in mind that some windows, like bedroom windows, need to meet egress requirements and should not be restricted.
7. Make sure each bedroom has at least one window that meets escape and rescue requirements. Teach your children how to safely use the windows as a way out during a fire, and practice your family’s emergency escape plan regularly.
8. Adult supervision is the best way to keep children from falling out of windows. When you watch small children, make sure that their play areas are away from windows.

Window safety handouts:

• Window Safety Tips handout
• Look Out for Kids Activity packet

If you have old, nonfunctioning or unsafe windows that need to be replaced, 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 National Window Safety Week appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Appeal

After completing your window replacement project, you will notice an improvement in your property’s curb appeal. Fibrex windows are highly regarded for their attractiveness. You can get them in various colors and styles to complement your home’s interior and exterior elements.

Low-Maintenance

Cleaning windows can be a chore, but with Fibrex, you don’t have to worry about constant maintenance. This low-maintenance material is to care for and clean. It doesn’t require painting and staining. Another great thing about it is that it will not rot or warp.

Excellent Strength

Compared to vinyl and wood, Fibrex is more durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance. It can protect your house better against harsh weather conditions and outdoor elements. You won’t have to worry about rot, pests, and other moisture-related issues with this material.

Insulation

Fibrex can keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. It features excellent insulating properties for more energy savings, so you can count on Fibrex to help you save on heating and cooling costs.

At Renewal by Andersen of Alaska, we install high-quality Fibrex windows backed with one of the strongest warranties on the market. 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 Four Great Qualities of Fibrex® appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Best Cold Climate Doors for Alaska

There are three primary considerations for your cold climate door: insulation, weather sealing, and a sturdy material that won’t warp in the cold. Steel and fiberglass are ideal building materials for doors as they’re less likely to warp and become damaged by extreme temperatures. They can be filled with thermally efficient insulating material to provide a much appreciated respite to your heating bills over winter.

ProVia doors are excellent examples of cold weather doors. Their steel or fiberglass frames are packed with excellent insulating material. Their weather seals are the best on the market, designed to withstand the harshest environments. You can even get ProVia doors with large glass sections without compromising on insulation or weather resistance and can style them to suit any home. And, of course, they’re excellent, sturdy, secure doors to ensure the safety of your family at home.

Best Cold Climate Windows for Alaska

Here’s the short version: For the best cold weather windows in Alaska, you’ll want double-pane windows with High-Performance Low-E4® SunSmart glass and a Fibrex® frame.

Why?

Double pane glass provides additional insulation to your home. Glass itself is a poor insulator and will let heat in and out fairly easily. Double-pane glass creates a pocket of gas between the glass that acts as a much more effective insulator than just the glass itself. This keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. With single-pane glass, you can end up spending thousands of dollars extra on heating bills over the life of your windows.

Secondly, Low-E4 SunSmart glass adds additional insulating properties to the windows, particularly important in the winter. Double-pane SunSmart glass can cut electricity bills by up to 25%. It’s also specially formulated to be easy to clean, keeping maintenance to a minimum.

And lastly, Fibrex frames. Vinyl is cheap and easy to maintain but warps and distorts at extreme temperatures. Wood is sturdy but susceptible to rotting over the years. Fibrex, meanwhile, combines the low cost of vinyl with the strength of a wooden frame. It’s also an excellent insulator. Combined with SunSmart glass and double-pane windows, you’ll slash your heating bills spectacularly.

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. Contact us today and see how we can help you stay warm with the best range of cold climate windows & doors.

The post Cold Climate Windows and Doors for Alaska appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Read on for six easy decorations that never need more than three items.

1. Book Page Snowflakes

source: thinkcrafts.com

If you love upcycling—turning something old into something new—you might want to grab that stack of old or damaged books that you’ve been meaning to donate. A book, a pair of scissors, and some string are all you need to pull off this wonderful winter decoration.

2. Hanging Pinecones

source: diys.com

Hang pinecones from your windows for an easy and seasonal decoration. To begin, head outdoors and gather some pinecones. Once you have your pinecones, tie some string to each one, then stick them all to your window with transparent tape. It’s as easy as that.

3. Recycled Paper Snowflakes

source: lushome.com

A little bit of recycled paper, some transparent tape, and a pair of scissors are all you need to make this beautiful assortment of snowflakes. Hang from the window, large or small, or arrange in the shape of a Christmas tree and stick to the glass as seen here.

4. Cinnamon Stick Candle Holder

source: gardentherapy.ca 

First, you will need a plain candle holder or a small glass and a bunch of cinnamon sticks. Then, you can either glue the cinnamon sticks one by one vertically against the outside of the candle holder, or wrap string, ribbon, or lace around the sticks to secure them tightly. Pop a candle inside and place on your windowsill for a warm and deliciously scented festive decoration.

5. Cupcake Liner Garland

source: bettycrocker.com

All you need are some cupcake liners, a pin, and ribbon or string. Thread the cupcake liners onto the string making a small hole in the center then string in alternating colors and secure with hot glue if necessary.

6. Dried Orange Circle Decorations

source: diys.com

To make this decoration, all you need are some large oranges and a knife to slice them into thin pieces. Don’t slice them too thinly or they’ll collapse. If you want variety, try using slices of different sizes. Otherwise, use only the center three slices for uniformity. Dry in the oven or food dehydrator. Then, use twine, fishing line, or another type of thread to tie them up in your windows. Try combining with other ornaments.

There’s something extra special about seeing handmade decorations. Whether you’re crafting for the first time or are already a seasoned maker, we hope that you’ve enjoy these ideas for DIY Christmas decorations and wish you and yours a happy holidays.

The post 6 Last-Minute DIY Holiday Window Decorations appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

What effect does indoor humidity have on window condensation?

Condensation is caused by excess humidity. When the outside temperature cools, the temperature of the glass in your windows does as well. When warm, moist indoor air comes in contact with this cold glass, the moisture condenses and forms water droplets. To prevent condensation from forming on windows, you have to consider the window’s energy efficiency, inside and outside temperatures, but most importantly, the humidity inside your home. Indoor moisture is just a part of life. Many activities such as cooking and bathing release moisture into the air.

How can I cut down indoor humidity during winter?

• Open the blinds and drapes to let out moisture-laden air.
• Raise the air temperature in your home to decrease relative humidity.
• Turn on ceiling fans for more air circulation.
• Run exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom and leaving them running for 15 minutes or longer to clear out lingering moisture.
• Ensure proper ventilation of appliances, like dryers, to the outside.
• Avoid storing firewood in your house or basement.

What about the opposite problem? In winter, indoor heating makes the air too dry. Are humidifiers OK to use?

While some people may find humidified air easier to breathe, it’s important to clean your humidifier regularly so that mold and bacteria don’t build up in its filters. Also, if the air is humidified excessively, condensation and other excess humidity related problems can occur.

On the positive side, humidified air can reduce the shrinkage of wall cracks and wooden furniture caused by over-drying as well as reducing static electricity. Whether or not you choose to use a humidifier, you must weigh the advantages of humidity against its disadvantages, including the increased risk of condensation.

Every home is different, but a level between 30 and 40 per cent humidity is typically ideal for keeping your home warm and comfortable in the winter, without leaving condensation on the windows.

Failure to maintain a reasonable humidity level may have the following effects:

• Low humidity=skin dryness. Humidity levels below 20% may cause skin dryness, which results in itchiness and discomfort.
• High humidity=allergies. Humidity levels of over 65% may cause asthma, allergies, and other upper respiratory illnesses.
• Excess humidity=home deterioration. Components such as windows, tiles, wood, and doors that store moisture are affected most.

When windows are not properly sealed, air leakage and condensation can occur when the indoor temperature is different from the outdoor temperature. Moisture can also seep through walls and deteriorate the paint there as well as on window sashes. And if there’s too much moisture in the window frame, it could cause rotting.

The bottom line: maintain a relative humidity level that’s comfortable for you, then reduce the humidity level when condensation occurs. The best way to do this is by turning off your humidifier or reducing the above sources of humidity in your home.

For more information on condensation, check out our other blog post: Condensation Season is Starting, or view our free condensation brochure: 2021 Condensation Brochure – Renewal by Andersen.

If you feel like your old windows need to be replaced, consider a winter window replacement project! We offer quick installation and you can still experience savings from the increased energy efficiency found in new replacement windows. Call us to schedule a free consultation today!

The post How to Manage Indoor Humidity in Winter appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

1. Black Cat Silhouettes & More

Source: deavita.net 

2. Red Tissue Paper Windows

Source: windowdepotusa.com 

3. Trash Bag Spider Webs

Source: HGTV.com

4. Spooky Monster Eyes

Source: merrypad.com

5. Hanging Paper Pumpkins

Source: newengland.com

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