Category: Siding

The Difference Between Engineering Wood versus Composite Siding | Denver Siding Installation

The Difference Between Engineering Wood versus Composite Siding

Posted on | by nwfam

Choosing the right siding for your house is an important decision, as it not only affects the aesthetics of your home but also its durability and energy efficiency. There are many types of siding available and selecting between engineered wood and composite siding for your home exterior involves considerations such as your budget, aesthetic preferences, climate, and maintenance requirements.

New Windows for America has put together some steps to help you make an informed decision when it comes to replacing your siding.

MATERIAL COMPOSITION

Some composite sidings are made up of cellulose fibers that are bonded with additional materials, while engineered wood uses treated wood strands combined with a resin binder for strength.

Engineered Wood Siding: This siding is typically made from wood fibers, wax, and resin, which are compressed and formed into boards or panels. It provides a more natural wood appearance.

Composite Siding: Composite siding is usually made from a combination of wood fibers, recycled plastics, and binding agents. It may have a more uniform and consistent appearance compared to wood.

COST OF SIDING

Engineered Wood Siding: Engineered wood is often less expensive than composite siding, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Composite Siding: Composite siding tends to be pricier than engineered wood but may offer longer-term benefits in terms of durability and lower maintenance costs.

DURABILITY OF SIDING

Engineered Wood Siding: Engineered wood can be susceptible to moisture, which may lead to swelling, warping, and rotting. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial to prolong its lifespan.

Composite Siding: Composite siding is more resistant to moisture and insects, making it a durable choice that can withstand harsh weather conditions. It generally requires less maintenance and is less prone to rot.

MAINTENANCE OF SIDING

Composite siding may require some maintenance. LP® SmartSide® offers a simple checklist for cleaning and maintenance that will help keep your siding looking beautiful.

Engineered Wood Siding: Engineered wood siding typically requires more frequent maintenance, including repainting or staining, to protect it from the elements and maintain its appearance. Engineered wood can be more flexible than composite siding making it less prone to breakage.

Composite Siding: Composite siding is low maintenance and often requires only periodic cleaning to keep it looking good. It doesn’t need to be refinished as frequently as engineered wood.

APPEARANCE OF SIDING

Siding options come in all sorts of colors and texture combinations. LP SmartSide offers a home visualizer where you can pick your home’s style or even upload a photo of your home to begin. Select an area of the home to visualize materials and colors.

Engineered Wood Siding: If you prefer a more natural wood look, engineered wood may be the better choice. It can be stained or painted in various colors and finishes.

Composite Siding: Composite siding provides a consistent appearance and can mimic the look of real wood but with less variation and more uniformity in color and texture.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Choosing a siding material that uses products that contain material that has been sustainably sourced, adheres to forest sustainability standards, and ensures compliance with SFI Standards is important to the team at New Windows for America. LP SmartSide® is committed to providing the best construction materials using sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

Engineered Wood Siding: It is made from wood fibers and can be considered more environmentally friendly, especially if sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Composite Siding: Composite siding often contains recycled materials, such as plastics, which can be seen as a sustainable choice. However, the production process may involve energy-intensive manufacturing.

CLIMATE CONSIDERATIONS

The best type of siding for Colorado homes depends on various factors, including the climate, your aesthetic preferences, budget, and maintenance considerations. Colorado experiences a range of weather conditions, from hail to harsh winters with snow and freezing temperatures to hot, dry summers, so it’s important to choose a siding that can withstand these extremes. LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding is designed to hold up to harsh weather and provide a home with superior resistance to impact damage from everyday bumps and bruises to golf ball–sized hail.

Engineered Wood Siding: In very wet or humid climates, engineered wood siding may require extra maintenance to prevent moisture-related issues.

Composite Siding: Composite siding tends to perform well in various climates, thanks to its moisture resistance and durability.

Are You Ready to Replace Your Siding?

The right siding choice should be a balance between your budget, aesthetic preferences, durability, and maintenance considerations. Careful research and planning will help you make an informed decision that will benefit your home for years to come. Ultimately, choosing the right siding for your home depends on your specific needs and priorities. Click here to learn more about the differences between Engineered Wood Siding and Composite Siding, and what options might be best for your home. As a Certified LP Installer, New Windows for America is trained and educated to help you answer any questions you may have.

If you are looking to replace your siding, windows, or a new front door, we invite you to contact our team at New Windows for America. We can provide you with options based on your style and budget when it comes to siding replacement, new windows and even updating your front door.

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New Windows for America has been a local and family-owned business for over 25+ years, installing a wide range of energy-efficient windows, doors, and siding. With our trained and professional installers, you can trust New Windows for America as your local window, door, and siding installer to perform a quality installation. We have a 5-star professional and knowledgeable team to help you choose the best windows, siding, and doors for your home, to fit your style, and budget.

Contact us today to schedule your FREE In-Home Estimate.

Click to receive your FREE, No Obligation Estimate TODAY!
8 Vinyl Siding maintenance Tips for Your Home | New Windows for America

8 Vinyl Siding Maintenance Tips for Your Home

Posted on | by nwfam

Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. To keep your vinyl siding looking its best and functioning properly, here are some top maintenance tips to consider:

Regular Cleaning

Periodically clean your vinyl siding to remove dirt, dust, pollen, and other debris. At least once a year, visually inspect the condition of the siding. Work one small section at a time, starting from the bottom and working your way up to prevent streaking. First, rinse the siding with a garden hose using a low-pressure spray. Next, wash the siding using clean water and mild dishwashing soap. Apply the solution with a soft brush, rinsing with a garden hose using a low-pressure spray. Make sure to rinse the soap all the way down to the bottom of the house. Spot clean and rinse the missed areas as needed. For more tips on how to clean your siding properly, click here.

Preventative Measures

To prevent mildew and mold growth, trim any overhanging branches or shrubs near the siding. Adequate sunlight and airflow can help prevent these issues. Siding should be kept free of excessive or constant sources of moisture, such as sprinklers and water runoff from gutters. Keep grills, fire pits, and other heat sources at a safe distance from your vinyl siding to prevent warping or melting.

Inspect for Damage

Regularly inspect your vinyl siding for signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose panels. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the siding’s integrity. If your siding has gaps or cracks, it could let moisture into the walls and affect your home’s ability to control the temperature. When moisture penetration goes untreated, it eventually causes mold and rot, which could even damage the structural integrity of your home. If you are unsure about how to check for potential damage or inspect your siding, please contact New Windows for America.

Painting Restrictions

Most vinyl siding is not designed to be painted, as it is typically manufactured in specific colors. However, chips and small imperfections in the paint finish can be touched up with matching paint.

Proper Ventilation

Ensure that your home’s ventilation systems, such as soffit and roof vents, are functioning correctly. Proper ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup, which can damage your siding and compromise its appearance.

Gutter Maintenance

Keep your gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water overflow, which could damage the siding and lead to mold or mildew growth.

Seasonal Checks

Check your siding before the seasons start to change. Performing thorough inspections before and after extreme weather seasons, such as winter and summer, can help to address any issues that might have arisen due to temperature fluctuations, storms, or other weather-related factors.

Give the Grill Some Distance from Your Home:

Vinyl is durable to the elements, but it can’t withstand the heat from an open flame. Some homeowners will place their grills up against the side of their homes for convenience. Grills in use should be kept at least 10 feet away to avoid melting and warping vinyl siding. Additionally, keep your grill on a stone or brick surface. This safety measure will avoid catching fire to grass or shrubs, which could also damage your siding, or worse cause a full-blown house fire.

By following these maintenance tips, you can help extend the life of your vinyl siding and keep your home looking beautiful for years to come.

Is it Time for New Siding?

It may be time for a siding replacement if you see any signs that your siding is worn – such as warping, cracking, excessive mold, or dry rot. Contact the team at New Windows for America for a free in-home consultation with one of our local siding experts. We can help you find the best option and style for your home, and your budget.

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New Windows for America is a local and family-owned business for over 25+ years, installing a wide range of energy-efficient windows, doors, and siding. With our trained and professional installers, you can trust New Windows for America as your local window, door, and siding installer to perform a quality installation. We have a 5-star professional and knowledgeable team to help you choose the best windows, siding, and doors for your home, to fit your style, and budget.

Contact us today to schedule your FREE In-Home Estimate.

Click for a FREE In-Home Estimate!

When Should You Replace Your Siding

Posted on | by nwfam
When Should You Replace Your Siding | Siding Replacement | New Windows for America

Siding is your home’s first line of defense against weather and pests; acting like an exterior windbreaker while insulating and protecting your home. When siding starts to fall apart, it becomes quite unsightly and invites pests and moisture leading to larger problems. Replacing your home’s siding may seem like a daunting and large project, but if using the right contractor, and the right products, and depending on how long you live in your home, chances are you probably only have to do it once. Unfortunately, your home’s siding won’t last forever. So how do you know when it is time to replace your siding?

Here are some signs to look for when you think you may need to do a siding replacement.

Excessive Maintenance

Taking care of your Colorado home’s siding will help prolong the life of your siding. Does it seem like you continually must repair spots on your home’s siding? Scheduling an inspection or maintenance check on your siding should be done once or twice a year, while the cleaning and maintenance are left up to the homeowner. This can be quite a time-consuming project, and you may want to consider having a siding that is more low maintenance to make better use of your time with other daily activities.

Extreme Color Fading or Peeling

Curb appeal is important to you and your neighborhood. Once the color on the siding begins to fade it can become quite unsightly. Do you find yourself having to paint your siding more frequently because it is peeling? In Colorado, we have 300+ days of sunshine per year, and that sun can be brutal on our homes. If you had sun-damaged siding and replaced or repainted it several times, and the damage returns quickly, this may mean a structural problem.  There are options for sun-resistant vinyl siding, and fiber cement siding available in a variety of colors that don’t require constant maintenance and will retain their color for many years.

Cracks & Gaps

Cracks and gaps can be quite unsightly but can also lead to inviting in moisture or pests. The integrity of the underlying wood structure may be comprised or worn down. Water damage from rain, snow, or pests may contribute to some of the siding becoming loose. Although these small areas can be repaired as a short-term solution, it is recommended to replace damaged siding as soon as possible to protect your home, as well as the appearance of your home.

Rotting & Warping

Does it look like your siding is warped, buckled, or starting to crumble? This could be a sign of rot which can spread across the exterior. To test for rot, insert a screwdriver gently under the boards and joints around the gutters and chimneys. Is the area soft, and easy to poke into? This could be a sign of rotting damage. There are many new brands of siding like cement board or siding made from a vinyl composition that do not naturally decay when exposed to long periods of moisture. 

Damage from Pests or Storms

Large-scale damage from storms or small damage from pests can present themselves as larger problems if not repaired or replaced. The damage could allow moisture to get into and under the siding which could reach your home’s structural framework or mold growth.

Higher Energy Bills

Rising costs of electricity and temperature swings may not be the only cause of your higher energy bills. Older siding does not insulate your home as well, making your furnace and air conditioner work harder to maintain the temperature in your home. Air leaks and drafts are common in defective or old siding. It may be time to replace your siding if you find you are paying more for heating and cooling bills.

Benefits of Replacing your Siding

Your home can look dramatically different with new siding, enhancing, and upgrading your home’s curb appeal, as well as increasing the value of your home. Installing and upgrading your siding could make a big difference in eliminating drafts, as well as saving on your energy bills in the winter and summer months. Ask the Team at New Windows for America about the different types of siding we offer, as well as siding that is rated by Energy Star for efficiency advantages.

Ready to Get Started on Your Siding Replacement Project?

If you are unsure if your home’s siding needs to be replaced, call the team at New Windows for America. We have 25+ years of experience with installing windows, and doors, including siding installation, specifically suited for our Colorado climate. We can help you figure out whether you can repair or need to replace your siding. New Windows for America offers some of the industry’s best brands, including James Hardie Siding, LP SmartSide, and Crane Performance Siding to name a few. We are happy to work with you on finding the best siding replacement for your Colorado home and can offer you a free estimate and determine if your siding needs to be replaced.

Contact our New Windows for America Team today with any siding questions you may have!

Click here for a FREE In-Home Estimate

Why Replacement Windows, New Siding, and Doors are More Affordable Than You Might Think

Posted on | by nwfam

When you consider what replacement windows, fresh siding, and new doors can do for your Denver or Boulder home, it’s an easy choice to have them installed. But, for a lot of homeowners, it isn’t quite that easy – they are afraid of the costs that might be involved with a home improvement project, like replacing windows or doors, or replacing siding.

At New Windows for America we can certainly understand that. However, you should know that replacement windows, siding, and doors can be more affordable than you might think. Here are five quick reasons why:

  1. You don’t have to break the bank for quality windows, doors, and siding. Because we sell our products factory-direct, you don’t have to deal with middlemen or huge price markups. That means you can get high-quality windows, doors, and siding on a reasonable budget.
  2. Our products are Energy-Star® rated and are custom-fitted for your home by the qualified and trained staff at New Windows for America.
  3. Financing is available for qualified customers. You can give your home a fresh look and more energy efficiency without writing a big check. That’s because, in addition to our low prices, we offer financing for qualified customers. So, you don’t have to wait to make your home more beautiful, comfortable, and valuable.
  4. Windows, doors, and siding can last for decades. When you invest in quality home improvement materials and craftsmanship, it’s an expense that you won’t have to worry about again for a long time. Many of our products can last for decades with the proper care and maintenance.
  5. You can save on energy bills and tax incentives. Our customers love that our products can save them big on their utility bills month after month. In addition, the state government often provides tax rebates and incentives for making your home more energy-efficient.

If you want to find out exactly how durable doors and siding can fit into your home improvement plans and budget, please call us today at (303) 920-0175, or schedule your FREE in-home estimate. It only takes a few minutes, and our helpful team will be happy to answer any questions you might have without subjecting you to unwanted sales pressure.

Home Renovation and Window Replacement: A Quick Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on | by nwfam
Denver Window Replacement

These days, home renovation is more popular than ever. We spend a lot of time in our houses, so why shouldn’t we make them as beautiful, comfortable, and efficient as possible?

For all the attention paid to the glamorous parts of the home renovation process – like putting in new floors, or painting the walls – Denver window replacement tends to be overlooked. Even on popular home renovation television shows, new windows seem to just “appear,” without too much thought being given to which window should be used or where they’re going to come from.

With that in mind, we’d like to give you a quick, step-by-step guide to choosing the right replacement windows as part of your home renovation project:

  • Match styles to design patterns. Occasionally, homeowners will fall in love with a particular type of window, forgetting that it might not match the overall style or decor of a room. Look at the big picture when matching windows to design patterns.
  • Measure everything twice. It goes without saying that getting the sizes wrong when it comes to your Denver window replacement project can lead to delays, headaches, and additional expenses. At New Windows for America, we make sure your measurements are exact and accurate.
  • Think colors, lines, and aesthetics. Some styles of windows look even better (or conversely, not as impressive) when put next to certain colors or items of furniture. When in doubt, talk with your New Windows for America design consultant who can make sure your different pieces will work well together.
  • Don’t feel confined by an existing window style. A lot of homeowners feel like it’s simplest to just replace existing windows with a newer set of the same style. While that’s sometimes true, you can often dramatically change the look of a room just by experimenting with different window replacement options.
  • Look ahead to maintenance. Some lower-cost windows are less durable and harder to clean. Try to choose the windows you’ll want to have in your home later, not just the ones that are easiest to buy right now.
  • Make efficiency a priority. In the same way, a good set of windows can pay for itself pretty quickly with lower energy bills. That’s particularly true for those of us living around the Rockies, so make sure your new windows will be energy-efficient.
  • Get expert help. When you aren’t sure what kinds of windows you want or need, don’t forget that New Windows for America is an expert in replacement windows,and we provide free estimates.

With these steps in place, you’ll know the basics of Denver window replacement and how it fits into your overall home renovation project. For more advice, or to see the different styles and how they could work in the space you’re trying to create, contact us today by calling us at (303) 920-0175, email us for a free estimate, or visit our showroom. A member of our New Windows for America team will be happy to walk you through your different choices for design, efficiency, and installation.

3 Great Ways to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Posted on | by nwfam

When you’re trying to sell your home – or just give it a fresher look – you’ll quickly find out there are literally dozens of things you can do to improve its “curb appeal.”

Ways to improve your curb appeal

Some of these are easy and simple, like planting new grass or clearing away old bushes and leaves. Things like landscaping will only take you so far, though, and eventually you might find yourself looking for things you can do to make your house more attractive to neighbors and buyers that don’t involve breaking the bank.

New Windows for America has just the answers you’re looking for. Below, you’ll find three great – and relatively inexpensive – ways you can improve your home’s curb appeal this spring almost instantly:

Replace the Windows


Although most homebuyers wouldn’t name the windows in a house as the first thing they notice, glass that is old, cracked, or dingy certainly makes a strong impression… and not a good one.

New windows, on the other hand, make a home seem brighter and more cheerful. Plus, installing energy-efficient windows can be a huge selling point, especially around the Front Range where temperatures can swing pretty strongly in both directions. Everyone likes to save money on utilities, especially new homebuyers.

Install a New Front Door

Is your front door inviting? Does it seem safe? Is it letting lots of hot or cold air outside and raising energy bills?

These are the kinds of questions people ask themselves when they see your home, and especially when it comes to deciding what a property is worth. And it’s important to note that the style and condition of your front door are going to factor heavily into the first impression someone gets when they visit your house. Front doors are visible from the street and tend to be the first part of a home someone actually interacts with.

Get New Siding Installed

Siding that’s worn, chipped, or aesthetically displeasing can scare buyers and visitors away before they ever even see the inside of your home. Strong curb appeal is really about first (and often instant) impressions, so it’s important that your home’s siding indicates that the property is well maintained and in good shape.

Any of these three improvements – or better yet, all of them together – could go a long way toward making a stronger first impression with your home. Best of all, the changes aren’t just cosmetic; replacing windows, doors, and siding is a great way to make your home safer, more energy-efficient, and valuable as a piece of real estate.

Why not stop by our showroom, call us at 303.920.0175, or fill out our FREE In-home Estimate Request to the right, and let New Windows for America show you how easy it is to improve your home’s curb appeal with better windows, doors, and siding?

7 Signs Your Home Needs New Siding

Posted on | by nwfam

Often, homeowners will wait as long as possible before changing or replacing the siding on their houses. That’s understandable – getting new siding is affordable, but it still requires an investment, and most of us would prefer to save money when and where we can.

Replacement Siding Denver

Still, replacing your home’s siding isn’t something you want to delay for too long, since old, worn, or damaged siding can lead to other problems like mold, mildew, and higher utility bills all while making your house look dreary and poorly maintained.

It’s a good idea to look at your options well before you reach that point. With that in mind, here are seven signs your home probably needs new siding:

  1. Your siding is cracked and chipped. These are obvious signs that your home’s siding is deteriorating, and should never be ignored. Paint is your first layer of protection against pests and the elements, so pay attention if your siding seems to be in rough condition.
  2. You’ve repainted it five times already. In the same way, if you find that you’re constantly repainting the siding on your home, that’s probably a sign that the underlying material has been damaged and isn’t offering the protection it used to.
  3. You’re noticing more moisture in your home. The siding on your home keeps moisture out, which is critical for avoiding mold and mildew. If you start noticing these kinds of problems in your house, you should look for answers right away before your health, or the equity of your home, is affected.
  4. Your energy bills are higher than ever. Along with moisture, damaged siding will tend to let in hot and cold air. Along with the issues already mentioned, this can lead to dramatically higher utility bills in a short period of time.
  5. Your siding looks loose or faded. Sometimes, when siding is getting worn out, it will start to sag or lose its original color. Not only does this make your home an eyesore, but it could also be an obvious sign of bigger problems.
  6. You notice rotting under the siding or in your home. Occasionally, damaged siding will start to rot from underneath. That might be visible when you run your hands along the siding or from points inside your home.
  7. It’s time for a change. Your siding doesn’t necessarily have to be damaged to be replaced. If you just want to give your home a fresher look, changing your siding might be one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make an instant improvement.

Want to learn more about siding, windows, and doors – and how you can use them to give your home a fresher look while making it safer and more energy-efficient at the same time?

Contact us today or stop by our showroom to speak with a member of our team.

Windows: Essential Parts of These Popular Projects

Posted on | by nwfam

There are many options for windows, so there’s no need to think of Denver window installation as a project with inherent limits. Instead, it can result in a dramatically improved architectural appearance just as much as it can restore an original design. Here are some of the most common types of projects that involve windows:

Structural Restoration

This is most commonly needed when the old windows had wood frames. Wood rots, cracks, and is subject to being eaten by insects. Eventually, new window frames are needed because the old ones have failed. The new ones can be made of wood, but it’s more common for homeowners to switch to vinyl or metal in order to avoid further problems with rotting or insects.

Storm damage also results in the need for straightforward restorations. In these cases, new windows are typically parts of larger projects. Carpentry work, replacement siding, and windows may all be included. This can be a good time to go ahead and make upgrades, but often, insurance policies only cover restoring the house to its original design.

Architectural Upgrades

Homeowners can really get creative when they have budgeted for a full-on redesign of a part of the house. Now is the time to go for custom windows in unique shapes, put in a row of plate glass windows, or add a sliding window wall. The last two options will allow light to flood into the room and make it very cheery. Be sure to use insulated, double-glazed windows so that it doesn’t get hot as well!

Smaller upgrades are less costly and can be done much faster. Try adding a small custom-shaped window to an area that’s usually too dark. This works very well in high places where it’d be a hassle to use artificial lighting. Add unique windows over doors, too. Their high placement preserves home security while bringing visual distinctiveness to the house.

Upgrading Old Windows

Sometimes it’s not the looks of the window that need to change, but its functionality. Replace old single-glazed panes with double-glazed ones for a huge boost in efficiency. Add frosted windows to bathrooms and other private areas to bring in light without the possibility of prying eyes. Replace windows that don’t open with ones that do so that fresh air can be let into the house.

These are just some of the ideas that can be used to freshen up a house with windows.

Stop by and visit New Windows for America today, or contact us for more information!

Siding, Trim and Railing: 2019 Is All About Color!

Posted on | by nwfam

By Brian Kirn – CertainTeed

As the industry’s color leader, we’re always listening to our customers’ feedback and evaluating what colors to add and to which products. In 2019, we’re excited to extend 16 colors to a variety of products in the CertainTeed lineup.

Siding to Get New Colors

Cedar Impressions

We’ve been blown away by the positive response to Cedar Impressions® Individual 5″ Sawmill Shingles‘ authentic cedar shingle appearance. After receiving a multitude of requests for solid colors to mimic the look of painted/dipped shingles, we’re proud to announce the launch of five solid colors to the Individual 5″ Sawmill Shingle panels and mitered corners: Colonial White, Natural Clay, Savannah Wicker, Seagrass and Sterling Gray.

Monogram

We’ll also be launching two new additional colors to the Monogram® line for the standard Double 4″ (D4) Clapboard, Double 5″ Clapboard and Double 5″ Dutchlap profiles, as well as to the extended length panels (16′, 20′ and 25′) in the D4 profile and to the Board & Batten Single 7″ family. These two new bold colors – Melrose, a saturated red apple color, and Brownstone, a bold, creamy chocolate color with hints of red – join the four colors added in 2018 (Espresso, Slate, Midnight Blue and Castle Stone). These new colors will also be introduced in a full line of complementary accessories that include: J-Channel, Undersill Trim, Outside Corner, Inside Corner, Bay Window Corner, T4 Universal Soffit and Trim Coil.

We have introduced a new solid color accessory for the Cedar Impressions Single 7″ Straight Edge Perfection Shingles that will very closely match the color Cedar Blend. The color will be available in the full line of Cedar Blend Solid accessories, which includes Outside Corner, Inside Corner, J-Channel, Undersill Trim, Cornice Mold and Bay Window Corner.

Click here to read the entire article

Top 10 Spring Things to Check

Posted on | by nwfam
Spring Cleaning

Spring has sprung! The days are longer and the air is warmer. Time to put away the winter coats and break out the toolbox. Winter storms and temperatures can wreak havoc on a home and finding out where repairs may be necessary is vital. Some are cheap; others…not so much. In any case, it needs to be done. So get up off your duff, grab a pen and paper, and get ready to look at these Top 10 Spring Things to Check!

  1. Spring Cleaning. Your house has been shut up all winter; hermetically sealed against the cold winter storms. Now that spring is here, it’s time to open the windows and start dusting! Make a list of what need to go into storage and which rooms are in most dire need of cleaning.
  2. Change the Filter. This is a bi-annual job best done during the spring and fall. Clogged air filters in the furnace often cause the unit to work harder which means a higher energy bill.
  3. Air out the Attic. Leaks or condensation buildup in the attic are a great place for mold and mildew to start. By opening attic vents and letting a fan blow through, you dry out the stale, possible humid air and make it harder for spores to grow. This is also a fantastic time to look for those leaks and get them repaired.
  4. Test the top. While we’re on the subject on the roof, safely climb up and check for broken, worn, or buckled shingles. The summer heat will exacerbate any damage that’s already been done during the winter and increase the chances of a leak. While you’re up there, check the chimney as well.
  5. Gauge the Gutters. This one gets a whole section of its own since this can be a huge job. Yearly cleaning of the gutters will keep old detritus from compacting and composting; weighing down the bracers and creating sagging areas. It’s also another place to figure out how much graveling your shingles have lost.
  6. Scope the Sides. Since you started at the top, work your way down. Look for cracks and leaks around window frames and doorways. Are there breaks or damage to the siding? Maybe this is the year to slap a fresh coat of paint on.
  7. Brace the Bottom. The melting snow has a tendency to wash earth away from the foundation so you may need to replace it with new compacted soil to prevent basement leaks. Look at outdoor faucets as well for breaks or leaks in the wall around them.
  8. Look at the Lawn. Wander around your yard and find low spots where water may collect. It may be great for the grass in that area, but it also means that water is flowing away from other spots that won’t look as healthy later on in the season. De-winterize your lawn tools now as well. Change out old gas and clean the contacts so that you aren’t fighting to start the mower when the time does come to trim the grass.
  9. Check the Cooler. Whether you have forced air A/C or and evaporative cooler, this is the time to get them cleaned and cleared. Check the A/C condenser for any twigs or other fan blade damaging debris that might cause costly repairs. Open up the swamp cooler and clean the media to prevent that nasty musty smell the first few times you run it.
  10. Deck out the Deck. Let’s face it, with longer days, you’re going to be out here more and it needs to be nice. Look for damaged or warped boards that need to be replaced. Break out and hose off the patio furniture that has been buried at the back of the garage since late fall. Take the cover off of the grill and give the slats a scrape to clear off the dust that has collected.

Prepping for spring and summer isn’t really hard to do. It can be time consuming and may claim a few weekends. While inspecting your house, take a look at your windows, siding and doors. Do they need spring cleaning, or maybe even replacement? Contact New Windows for America for a FREE estimate! When you have completed this checklist, you will know that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the summer.