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Jul 09, 2022
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Fast Facts About Window, Siding, & Insulation Installation

Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am.  Have your most pressing home improvement quandaries addressed by calling or texting 651-461-9226.  Here’s the must-know information our COO, Andy Lindus shared on 7.9.22.     

Fast Facts About Window Replacement

When it comes to window installation, there are a lot of terms for homeowners to understand.  For example, new home windows often come with Low-E glass and gas in between the windowpanes.  Not all Low-E glass is created equally.  As the years have advanced, the technology for Low-E glass coatings has gotten better.  In the Twin Cities and Western Wisconsin, residential windows have Low-E glass that react to angle of the sun.  As the sun gets higher in the sky, it will reflect more of the Low-E glass during the summer months. As the sun gets lower in the sky, it’s important to have solar heat gain in the winter months.  This is why many homeowners in the Midwest choose to have Infinity from Marvin® windows and doors installed in their home.  Built in Minnesota and designed to withstand our extreme temperature fluctuations, Infinity® from Marvin windows offer optimum energy efficiency, beauty, and lifespan.

Watch An Infinity® From Marvin Window Replacement:

Window Replacement & Energy Efficiency

It’s worth noting that the spacer system within the glass and the thickness of spacer system can have a deep impact on the energy efficiency of the windows.  If you have a small spacer system in a large window, the middle of the glass can almost be touching.  This can create a condensation circle in the middle of the house windows.

home window installation

Full Frame Vs. Insert Window Replacement

The majority of windows being replaced in the Twin Cities and Western Wisconsin are insert windows and not full frame.  With insert residential windows, only the sashes are removed.  The existing window frame remains intact.  This window installation technique does not allow a contractor to address a window’s preexisting air and water infiltration issues.  In addition, the visible glass area is reduced during insert window replacement.  During full frame window replacement, it is not uncommon for house siding to be temporarily removed as part of the process.  This gives the window installation service the ability to add tape and foam to the proper areas.

winter window installation

Should I Replace My House Siding At The Same Time That I Have Custom Windows Installed?

It is often wise to complete siding and window installation at the same time. In fact, this approach can often save a homeowner because siding and window contractors both need to caulk and seal window openings and trim siding joints.  One of the biggest decisions a homeowner needs to make about siding installation is what color to use. Siding contractors are often able to offer 3D imaging to assist homeowners in picturing what various house siding colors, styles, and trim packages would look like on their home.

window installation

How Do I Know If I Need New Home Insulation?

Sweltering summer temperatures and subzero winter temperatures can leave homeowners questioning if they need energy efficient home improvements, such as insulation.  It’s best practice for insulation contractor services to look at all aspects of the home to understand how its building envelope performs. This allows the insulation contractor to identify areas of infiltration, from the attic to the basement, that may need addressing.  They will also be able to educate homeowners on an attic’s R-value and inform them if their attic lacks a proper vapor barrier.  In addition, insulation contractors can verify whether there is proper ventilation in the roof and if the intake in the soffits is up to par.  These steps allow insulation contractor services to suggest the home improvements that will create the most comfortable and energy efficient home possible.  If a contractor is simply offering to add more insulation without discussing whether air infiltration and attic ventilation need upgrading, they may be doing more than good to your home energy efficiency.

Technician Applies Spray Insulation in Attic

What Are Common Home Insulation Problems?

Many attics lack a vapor barrier.  This can lead to air infiltration in the attic.  When this happens, ice dam formation can occur.  Insulation contractors are quickly able to identify is problem because when attic air infiltration is occurring, home insulation becomes discolored.  Insulation can also shift because of air infiltration.  Another prominent issue home insulation services identify is improper intake in the soffit vents.  Attic air chutes also need to be examined.  Attic air chutes are made from Styrofoam.  They are installed between the attic joists, along the roof deck.  As you fill up the attic space with insulation, the soffit area where air is supposed to come in becomes full.  However, attic air chutes create a dam and allow air to still enter through the soffit up into the attic.  Doing this makes it easier for the attic to remain the same temperature as the outdoors, which is the ultimate goal.

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View Our Home Improvement Reviews:

"Thank you for a job well done.  We are very impressed with our new windows."

Bill & Gini R.
Maple Grove, MN
May 27, 2022

"The crew did a great job - and cleaned up every day! Love that. Very courteous and explained everything."

Janis H.
Hammond, WI
May 21, 2022

"Very professional and great work! I am having quite a few more windows put in next year."

Amy M.
Woodbury, MN
May 20, 2022

"Lindus did our home and cabin. Roof, siding, windows, gutters. Excellent job! Very pleased with everything! Thank you!"

Cheryl W.
Trego, WI
May 16, 2022

"The guys did a great job."

Don K.
Savage, MN
May 5, 2022

"Excellent and efficient work. Thankful that the Lindus crew was accommodating to our needs as homeowners and for their communication throughout."

Christian
Bloomington, MN
April 19, 2022
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