Author: shane

Why Is There Condensation on My Windows?

Posted on April 3, 2023 by - Window Education

zen windows

Why Is There Condensation on My Windows?

Ideally, the windows in your home will provide a great view while keeping the interior warm in the winter and cool in the summer. So, when you see condensation on your windows, which happens when humid air meets a cool surface, you may wonder if they are effectively keeping the cold at bay.

What Causes Condensation?

Condensation is a natural phenomenon that occurs when hot, humid air meets a cool surface. Hot air can absorb more moisture than cool air, so when hot, humid air cools rapidly, it leaves behind liquid water. This happens frequently in bathrooms during a shower, where the cooler surface of the mirror will cause water to condense out of the air.

Condensation can happen anywhere there is a cooler surface and moisture in the air. Inside your home, the air is constantly being filled with moisture from activities like showering, cooking, or simply breathing. Because windows are located on the exterior walls and they have less insulation than the wall itself, they tend to be colder than the rest of the room, creating a natural spot for condensation to form. Even the best windows will lose some heat to the outside during cool weather, and every window is a balance between great views and energy efficiency.

Interior vs. Exterior Condensation

Condensation on the inside of the windows occurs due to humid air inside the home and colder temperatures outside. If it happens often, it may be a sign that your home has significant humidity and ventilation problems, or that your windows are poorly insulated. Excessive condensation can lead to water damage and mold growth, so it is a good idea to tackle any humidity problems promptly.

Condensation can also form on the outside of your windows in rare cases where the air is warmer and just a bit humid outside and your windows are cooler than the air temperature. This shows that your windows are working well to limit heat transfer between the interior and exterior.

If condensation forms between the panes of glass in your windows, this shows that the seals in your windows are faulty. Dual-pane and triple-pane windows feature a sealed space between the panes that is filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. This acts as an insulating layer to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. If these seals have failed, it is best to repair or replace the window.

How to Reduce Condensation in Your Home

Reducing humidity can go a long way toward preventing condensation. Use the exhaust fan in the bathroom when you are showering or bathing, and turn on the exhaust hood when you are cooking. If your home does not have an exhaust fan in the bathroom or a hood over the kitchen stove, it is wise to install one. Meanwhile, open windows as necessary to improve ventilation when bathing or cooking. Make sure that your HVAC system is serviced and working properly as well, as it helps to control humidity, and if humidity is still a problem, consider adding a dehumidifier.

If old, damaged, or inefficient windows are the primary cause of the condensation problem, replace the weatherstripping and make sure they are insulated and caulked properly. Otherwise, consider upgrading your windows to modern, energy-efficient replacement windows. Choose quality windows for the greatest performance, and select a skilled, professional contractor to make sure that they are installed and insulated properly.

A quality installation can improve the performance of any window, and at Zen Widows, we offer both top-quality replacement windows and energy-efficient, professional window installations.

Quality Replacement Windows for Your Home

Our team at Zen Windows makes the process of buying replacement windows easy with fast quotes, quality products, and great financing options. Our company features:

  • Top-quality vinyl and fiberglass replacement windows
  • Fast, accurate, free window replacement quotes
  • Energy-efficient, professional window installations
    • [DisplayIfSet group=”Additional_Pages” setting=”financing”]
  • Impressive financing options with no money down
    • [/DisplayIfSet] [DisplayIfSet group=”Additional_Pages” setting=”warranties”]
  • Lifetime material and labor warranties on all our windows
    • {/DisplayIfSet]

Are you ready to upgrade your old, inefficient windows? Call today or contact your local Zen Windows dealer to request a free, no-obligation window replacement quote!

What to Expect From a Professional Window Company

Posted on April 3, 2023 by - The Window Industry

zen windows

What to Expect From a Professional Window Company

When it’s time to replace their home’s windows, many homeowners decide to tackle the job themselves or have their regular, reliable handyman do the work. But that can cause more problems than you’d think — and hiring a professional window replacement company makes better sense for many reasons.

Here’s why going it alone or with a non-professional installer isn’t the best option and what you should expect from the professional window company you hire.

Reasons Why DIY Window Installation Isn’t Worth It

Is it ever worth it to replace windows on your own? The short answer is no. Unlike other DIY home improvement projects, when done correctly, window replacement is a time-consuming and exacting process that requires an advanced degree of skill.

Here are our top reasons for never trying to install a window yourself.

  1. Reduced energy efficiency: Windows must have an air-tight fitting to deliver the ultimate energy efficiency. Unless you’ve replaced hundreds of windows, it’s possible your fitting will be slightly off, resulting in drafts and higher energy bills.
  2. Reduced curb appeal: A non-professional is more likely not to finish window installations in an aesthetically pleasing way. There’s a subtle art to window installation that can only be mastered through professional experience.
  3. Security issues: Improperly installed windows may not close and lock properly, making it easier for intruders to break into your home.
  4. Necessary tools: Most people don’t have the tools needed for proper window installation and, if you buy them, you likely won’t need to use them again.
  5. Time-consuming: Most professional installers take about an hour to replace a window. DIYers or handymen with little experience will find it takes them far longer to complete the job, including the time it takes to watch YouTube videos.
  6. No guarantee: Professional installers offer warranties and guarantees for their materials and labor. When you do it yourself, you have no such protection.

What To Expect From a Professional Window Replacement Company

When you need to install replacement windows, the benefits of hiring a professional to do the job are unsurpassable. And once they’re installed, your home has a beautiful new appearance that should last for decades. When you work with a company like Zen Windows, here’s what you can expect.

  • Expert advice from an experienced professional: A company that performs window installations day in and day can help you avoid common pitfalls and obstacles you’ve probably never thought of. They’ll also advise you on the best options for how to stay within your budget and, when it comes to choosing the windows for your project, they’ll guide you on which window styles might work best for your home’s style.
  • Professional project analysis and planning: A professional window installer ensures your window replacement project meets your goals, objectives, and expectations. They’re skilled at using their years of experience and expertise to suggest options and alternatives that will transform your home’s appearance and energy efficiency.
  • Top-quality products with the latest designs and technologies: A professional window company offers top-quality window brands from companies that continually update their products to incorporate the latest technological advances in building materials and design.
  • A proper window installation replacement process: The replacement window company you choose should guarantee each one of your new windows is installed correctly. Installers should be OSI- and LEED-certified, always on time, and communicative during your project.

Why Choose Zen Windows for Your Window Replacement Services

Long-term equality, performance, and satisfaction are a given with a reputable replacement window company. At Zen Windows, we back all our products and work with warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. If a problem arises once your installation is complete, we’re here to get it corrected quickly, efficiently, and properly. Can your handyman say the same?

What Makes a Window Energy-Efficient?

Posted on April 3, 2023 by - Window Education

zen windows

What Makes a Window Energy-Efficient?

Energy-efficient windows keep your home comfortably warm or cool while saving you money for decades after they’re installed. Replacing your home’s windows with energy-efficient models not only improves comfort but also filters out damaging ultraviolet light. New ENERGY STAR® qualified windows can also save you hundreds of dollars a year in heating and cooling costs.

For the greatest energy savings, you want to choose replacement windows that are best suited to your climate.

Energy-Efficient Terms You Should Know

  • Heat gain and loss refers to direct transfer through the glass, heat radiation into your home, and air leakage through windows and skylights.
  • IGUs, or insulated glass units, are two or three window glass panes in one frame. Each pane is separated by a transparent, odorless, and inert gas, typically argon, krypton, or both, minimizing heat gain and loss.
  • Low-E refers to low-emissivity coatings, invisible layers that are applied to windows during the manufacturing process. They provide insulation and control heat transfer. While more expensive than windows without the coating, low-E windows can reduce energy loss by 30%-50%, making them a cost-effective investment.
  • SHGC, or solar heat gain coefficient ratings, measure the fraction of transmitted solar energy transmitted and let you know how well the window blocks the sun’s heat. The lower an SHGC rating, the less solar heat the window transmits.
  • U-factor rates a window’s performance by measuring its heat transfer rate and tells you how well the window insulates. The lower the U-factor, the better the window insulates. A window’s U-factor is affected by the window frame material, glazing, and low-E coatings.

How Windows are Insulated

Technology plays a big role in how energy-efficient windows work.

Glass coatings or glazing

Low-emissivity glass helps block 90% of the sun’s UV rays, keeping heat inside when it’s cold and outside when it’s hot. Glazing options include tints, gas fills, and reflective coatings, and all are designed to help save you money on your heating and cooling costs.

Spacer systems

Instead of metal, 100% polymer structural foam is now used to help keep windows thermally efficient and condensation-free. Spacers can lower the U-factor by .01%.

Window technology

Other advanced technologies that improve window energy efficiency include double and triple-paned windows and filling the space between insulated glass panes with Krypton gas to reduce heat transfer further.

Signs Your Windows Aren’t Energy-Efficient

Heat loss and gain through windows is one of the primary ways energy usage increases in homes. Signs your home’s windows aren’t energy-efficient enough include:

  • Inability to open or close windows easily or entirely
  • Reduced indoor comfort from drafts
  • Higher energy bills
  • Improper installation
  • High volume outdoor noise
  • Damage such as fog, broken glass, or rotted frames

Maintenance Tips For Maximum Energy Efficiency

Routine maintenance increases windows’ life span and keeps them as energy-efficient as possible. Together with periodic window inspections, here’s how to ensure your windows are operating at peak performance.

Keep them clean

Environmental factors can damage your windows and leave them less efficient. Though vinyl window frames aren’t necessarily affected by salt, the area around them can be. Washing it away is always a good idea.

Window caulk and weatherstripping

Heat and cold air can easily enter your home through gaps between the glass, frame, and window sash. Caulk or weatherstripping seal off drafts. Check them once a year to ensure they’re still providing adequate protection.

Window treatments and awnings

Insulated draperies and outdoor awnings can reduce the amount of solar heat gain by up to 65%. Awnings installed on western-facing windows can reduce heat gain by nearly 80%. Indoors, shades and drapes used together maximize sun protection and prevent heat loss.

Which Windows Are Best for Basements?

Posted on April 3, 2023 by - The Window Buying and Installation Process

zen windows

Which Windows Are Best for Basements?

In homes that have them, basements are a great place to store seasonal or infrequently needed items, hide unsightly appliances, create a workspace, or turn into extra living space. With so many potential uses, it makes sense to bring in some extra light and ventilation with a few well-placed windows, but what are the ideal types for your basement? There are several good choices and a few factors that may affect the type of window you choose.

What Makes a Good Basement Window?

Windows in the basement should be operable to provide some light and ventilation, especially if you will be creating a workspace or living area there. If you will be spending considerable time in the basement, the windows should also be large enough to serve as an exit or egress in case of an emergency like a fire. Finally, the windows should be easy to open but hard to manipulate from the outside, and they should lock securely to keep your home protected from break-ins.

The Best Basement Windows for Your Home

Basement windows are often limited by the vertical height available between the grade and the top of the foundation. Short, rectangular styles are some of the best options for basements, including the following types of windows:

  • Hopper windows: Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and can open either in toward the basement or out away from the home. They offer plenty of light and ventilation, and outward-opening hopper windows can allow materials to be passed into the basement, but they are poor choices for egress windows because the glass is in the way.
  • Awning windows: Hinged at the top, awning windows typically open out, forming a kind of roof over the window well. This makes them ideal for ventilation or passing materials into the basement, and they can also serve as awkward egress windows in an emergency if they are large enough.
  • Slider windows: Typically configured with one fixed sash and one operable sash, one half of a slider window can move over the other to provide a large opening and plenty of ventilation. Large slider windows can provide easy access to the basement and are good choices for egress windows.
  • Casement windows: Hinged at the side, casement windows can open in or out like a door, depending on the configuration. They offer large amounts of light and ventilation, as well as easy access to the basement. If there is enough height for a large casement window or space to install a window well outside, they make ideal egress windows as the glass can swing completely out of the way.

At Zen Windows, we feature all these types of windows and more. Call or contact your local Zen Windows dealer for a quote.

Basement Windows Installations by Zen Windows

When you need quality basement windows and a professional, energy-efficient window installation, choose our team at Zen Windows. We make the processes of buying replacement windows simple, and our company features:

  • Top-quality windows and window installation services
    • [DisplayIfSet group=”Additional_Pages” setting=”warranties”]
  • Lifetime material and labor warranties on all windows
    • [/DisplayIfSet]
  • Free, accurate, and fast window replacement quotes
    • [DisplayIfSet group=”Additional_Pages” setting=”financing”]
  • Great financing options with no money down
    • [/DisplayIfSet]
  • No high-pressure sales tactics, in-home demos, or pushy salespeople

Get the perfect windows for your basement with help from our team at Zen Windows. Call us today or send us a message online to request a free, no-obligation quote from your nearest Zen Windows dealer.

Choosing the Right Window Style for Your Home

Posted on April 3, 2023 by - Trends & Design

zen windows

Choosing the Right Window Style for Your Home

The perfect window can bring the outdoors in and enhance your home’s exterior for added safety and security. But which window is perfect for you? Whether you are replacing old windows in an existing home for a more attractive view, choosing new windows for an addition, or starting a self-build, these four tips will help you select the style that looks most authentic and appealing for the architecture of your home.

1. Consider Your Home’s Architecture

One of the first things to consider when choosing the right window style for your home is your home’s specific architectural style. You want windows that will complement your home’s style, not fight it.

Window Styles for Modern Homes

If you have a modern-style home, consider the sleek lines of casement windows to increase ventilation in your home, which helps to decrease energy costs. Like casement windows, awning windows open using a hinge on the top or bottom instead of the side and are perfect for saving indoor space while providing light and ventilation. Picture windows, which are fixed instead of operable, have become increasingly popular, as they too offer natural light, can help reduce energy bills, and can be designed to match other window styles in your home. Special shape windows are also popular for contemporary homes.

Window Styles for Traditional Homes

If you have a more traditional home, you can’t go wrong with double-hung windows. Their timeless look makes them suitable for nearly any home style, which is why they’re by far the most popular window style. A double-hung window is contained in a single casement and features an upper and lower window sash that slides vertically past one another. With a large portion of the window’s area available for ventilation, double-hung windows are great for creating breezes. When they’re closed, they provide insulation for improved energy efficiency and UV protection, and they’re easy to clean because of their tilt-in feature. Bay and bow windows often blend well with vintage homes, and their three-dimensional shape adds interest both inside and out.

2. Decide What Functionality You Want From Your Windows

When choosing a window style, consider the room where it will be located. Do you want natural light, ventilation, or both? One of the most important purposes of a window is to allow air to move in and out of your rooms. Garden windows not only allow natural light and beauty to your home, but they also allow great insulation and distribution of air within your room.

Are you looking for a window that lets more light in? Slider and bay windows are perfect choices for brightening up your home. Slider windows are a good choice when you need to constantly open and close windows, and bay windows can serve as a visual centerpiece in large living rooms or family rooms.

Do you need windows that offer greater security? Casement windows tend to be relatively secure against intruders because the open space is narrow when the windows are open. Awning windows also have a small opening, providing an extra layer of security at an affordable price.

3. Evaluate How Much Ventilation You Want

Operable windows are the ideal choice when you want to catch and direct cool breezes into your home. The two openings on double-hung windows make them excellent for room ventilation, and they are typically easy to open and close because of their springs or weights. Bay and bow windows add immediate charm to any property, as they offer additional space inside the room and maximize the amount of light by the increased number of panes without compromising on security. Even better, their close-set panes create an effective cross-breeze.

If you want light but no ventilation, picture windows are your best bet. They’re fixed, meaning they’re designed not to open. With no openings, you’re guaranteed no air leakage.

4. Bring Color In through Zen Window Frames

Depending on the color and style of your home’s architecture, you may choose window frames that lend color to the exterior of your home. Vinyl windows are popular with Zen Windows customers because of their efficiency, affordability, and low maintenance. Some Zen locations also offer fiberglass windows. Whether you choose vinyl or fiberglass frames, our window manufacturers offer factory colors already infused into the frame material. We can help you choose the aesthetic features that best meet your needs, including decorative glass, colored frames, and advanced screens.

Enlist Zen Windows Pros to Help Choose Your Window Style

The best window style for your home depends on your needs and wants as a homeowner. At Zen Windows, our team can help you find the style of window that will best achieve your vision. If you’re unsure how to get started or feeling a bit overwhelmed by the process, we suggest scheduling a free consultation with one of our team members, who will answer any questions you may have about a window style or project idea.

To schedule your free consultation today, give us a call to learn more about how we can help you. You can also find your nearest Zen Windows location and reach out directly.

Can You Mix Window Styles?

Posted on April 3, 2023 by - Trends & Design

zen windows

Can You Mix Window Styles?

New window installation on your home can create instant curb appeal and transform its appearance. Whether you are replacing the windows in your home, building an addition, or starting a new construction project, there are many window options and styles to choose from. It can be hard to choose one, so you find yourself asking: Can I mix and match different window styles throughout my home? The short answer is yes – if you do it carefully.

Many homeowners don’t realize that they have a choice in window style variations because many homes are built with windows of the same style throughout the entire home. However, windows are the eyes of your home!  Not only do they add to your everyday enjoyment, but they also provide character and convey your personality and style.

To mix and match correctly requires a bit of knowledge about your home’s style, window trends, your likes, and your dislikes. So how do you mix window styles for your project? Before updating your windows, consider these guidelines on choosing the right window styles that will best complement your home.

Understand Your Home’s Style

Choosing a window style that suits your home’s architecture is an important element to keep in mind. Certain window styles are often associated with particular architectural styles. The theme is important to consider when mixing and matching window styles since it will keep your curb appeal seamless and appealing.

Window Styles for a Traditional Home

Traditional home styles like Victorian, Colonial, or Cape Cod fare better with a mix of double-hung, bay, or bow windows to help achieve a timeless look. These window styles come in different sizes and shapes that you can mix without making your home look unusual.

Window Styles for a Modern Home

Contemporary or modern home styles work best with windows that have clean lines and asymmetrical designs. If you have a modern home, you should ideally consider windows with a modern and sleek appearance. For example, casement windows are made from a large expanse of glass, provide a clear view of your surrounding property, and have a minimalist look. You could also consider slider windows, which are perfect if there is not enough room for casement windows to open correctly. They also have a sleek and stylish appearance as they slide open, therefore, saving space and adding ample light and ventilation to your home.

The main rule here is when you are choosing windows for your home, try and stick to an overall theme that matches the style of the property.

Window Trends for Your Home

According to Redfin’s top 8 home design trends in 2021, floor-to-ceiling windows become the focal point of any room. On-trend with indoor/outdoor living, garden windows allow light to pour into your space without the need to step foot outside.

Energy-efficiency replacement windows have become increasingly popular because they are designed to save you money on your heating and cooling bills while preventing drafts and reducing stress on your HVAC system.

Special shape windows are an excellent choice for any homeowner looking to add interesting and unique architectural styling to their home. Special shape windows accentuate other window styles and create a unique architectural style all their own. With design shapes like circles, half-circles, trapezoids, triangles, and virtually any other shape you can imagine, the design possibilities for your window project are nearly endless. In addition to the many shapes offered, our special shape windows come in several styles, finishing options, colors, and materials.

Express Your Style

Whether you are shopping for windows for new construction or replacing the windows in your existing home, one thing will immediately become crystal clear — there are many decisions to make! When installing new windows on your home, the general idea is to stick to a theme or style, but that doesn’t mean you need to stick to one specific type of window. If your house is a modern or traditional style, you can match the style of your home in your choice of windows. However, you don’t want to mix things up too much, as it could end up looking a bit odd. If you plan to mix and match window styles, staying within an overall theme will allow you to express yourself while boosting curb appeal.

Rather than be overwhelmed, you can always ask us for advice to help you make the right choices for your home and family. No matter how you want to mix and match your windows, Zen Windows can help you select the perfect window combination for your home.

Call us today to learn more about what we can do for you, or find your nearest Zen Windows location and reach out directly.

Oops, Post Not Found!

Uh Oh. Something is missing. Try double checking things.

This is the error message in the parts/content-missing.php template.