Category Archives: Windows

Slashing Summer Energy Costs

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 16, 2013 – 12:59 pm
Filed under Construction, Home Maintenance, Insulation, Lindus Construction, Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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With energy costs ever on the rise, it’s not a bad idea to thoughtfully examine your home to see how you can save without having to forego air conditioning. In this blog, we’ll give you some tips on how keep your summer energy costs in check while helping the environment, since the Department of Energy speculates that half of a household’s energy consumption is from heating and cooling.

INSULATION- Insulation in your attic acts as a preventative to keep the sun’s heat that hits your roof, especially in the summer, from filtering into the rest of your home, which in turn, will make your air conditioner work harder.  According to ENERGY STAR, the proper amount of insulation that is installed correctly can lower your energy bills by as much as 20%.  Insulation shouldn’t be limited to your attic.  Your walls and basement also benefit from insulation.  (Learn more at: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/03/insulating-your-home-will-insulate-your-pockets)

WINDOWS- All windows are NOT created equally, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency.  Windows best suited to provide insulation and increase your home’s energy efficiency are those that are triple paned. This means they contain 3 panes of glass that are separated by air spaces. They’re a great way to save on your energy bills because they have more surface area, which is used to absorb both warmth and cold putting less stress on your home’s furnace and air conditioner. Lindus Construction is the exclusive home of the SEASONGUARD window.  The SeasonGuard window’s patented design allows for solar heat gain in the winter which naturally keeps your home warmer.  In the summer, SeasonGuard windows deflect sunlight, lowering your energy costs.Vinyl and wood frames will work much better than those made of metal because metal is a conductor, which means it will increase the sweating issue since it will transfer the cold air indoors.  And while we’re on the topic of windows, drawing the shades during the daytime, will also keep your home cooler.  Federal Tax Credits are available on energy efficiency windows, with a maximum credit of $200.  To learn more, visit: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index

PREVENT AIR LEAKAGE- Did you know that a duct leaking air in your home wastes between 10-30% of cooling energy and it may require as much as one ton of AC just to overcome that leak?  Save your money and do the planet a favor-contact a RESNET EnergySmart Contractor who can give you an analysis on where & how energy is being lost in your home and which systems are operating efficiently.  They’ll also be able to suggest customized, cost saving measures that can be implemented to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.  (Want to know more?  Visit: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2013/04/increase-home-energy-efficiency-with-a-resnet-assessment/)

HOME APPLIANCES- Your oven uses 2/3 more energy than a microwave so bear that in mind when you’re preparing your meals, or even better yet, grill out.  Plus, oven use raises the temperature of your home which will, in turn, make your HVAC unit work harder, raising your energy costs.  Other appliances such as a dishwashers, washers & dryers also raise your home’s temperature and your cooling costs so it’s best to use them either early in the morning or later at night when the warmest part of the day has passed.

THERMOSTAT- Control your home’s temperature while you’re at work with a programmable thermostat by setting it to revert back to your desired temperature about a half an hour before you are scheduled to arrive at home.

Lindus Construction is proud to now be RESNET certified and would like to help you in your quest for energy efficiency in your home. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com  to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Make sure to tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for the Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

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Why You Should Install Double Hung Windows!

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 5, 2013 – 1:44 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Double Hung, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, SeasonGuard, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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You look through them every day and how often do you think about what impact your existing windows have on the beauty, value, and inside comfort of your home? Replacing your windows can help improve the look of your home and add long lasting value, plus save on energy bills. If you are ready for unmistakable window elegance with striking curb appeal, then SeasonGuard double hung windows are your answer. This high caliber window has a double contoured narrow-line with exclusive mortised locks and wood style coved trim around the glass that creates beauty and defines the craftsmanship you have desired in a window.

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Features & Benefits of SeasonGuard Double Hung Windows

  • The signature narrow line window design provides maximum glass view areas.
  • UltraCore® polyurethane window frame insulation provides added comfort and ultimate energy efficiency.
  • Lift out sliders, with dual brass rollers featuring a stainless steel axle for years of worry free performance.
  • In-swing sashes offer added efficiency being able to easily clean the window from inside your home.
  • Provides minimal maintenance and easy operation with tilt-in feature, contoured lift-rails and pre-tensioned, dual pulley Block & Tackle balance system.
  • Advanced, triple weather-stripping seals for top efficiency performance.
  • Polyurethane window frame insulation provides added comfort and the ultimate in energy efficiency.
  • Coved interior glazing bead for added elegance and traditional design lines.
  • Enjoy added peace of mind with recessed pick resistant locks and night latches for venting.
  • Extruded aluminum screen frame with heavy-duty aluminum corner reinforcements for years of worry free performance.

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How to operate your double hung windows

  • Unlock sash locks.
  • Raise lower sash at least 2-3 inches.
  • Release both tilt latches and pull top of sash toward you.
  • To tilt-in top sash ,first tilt-in lower sash. Then repeat steps 2 & 3 for top sash

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Federal Tax Credit

Did you know that if you have new energy efficient windows installed in your home this year, or even had them installed last year in 2012, that you are eligible for a Federal Credit up to $200. Check out the Energy Star website for more information. At http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index.

Lindus Construction is proud to provide Minnesota & Western Wisconsin with SeasonGuard Windows. .Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects

Your Home’s Moisture Levels-When Wetter Isn’t Better

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 2, 2013 – 2:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Lindus Construction, Roofing, Sweaty Windows, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Window Condensation
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It’s no secret that moisture in your home can be a leading cause of health ailments such as asthma & upper respiratory conditions.  With this year’s winter dragging on and on and on, it’s a good idea toexamine your home for moisture related issues that may have presented themselves over the winter months.

Beyond the health issues that excessive moisture in your home can create, it’s also vital to address issues with moisture before they negatively affect your property. There are several places where moisture can present itself, all of which can end up directly affecting your wallet & your health.

Windows & Doors: Leaking often first occurs near the corners.  Telltale signs of impending water damage include paint that is discolored or peeling.  Windows that sweat can also be an indicator that moisture is occurring when it shouldn’t.  (For more on sweating windows: (http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/11/why-are-my-windows-sweating/)

Roof: Any shingles that permit water to saturate your roof’s underlayment should be replaced.  Areas where this is more likely to occur are attic vents and chimneys.  Water that is visible through your ceiling may have already coated your attic floors and trusses which is why it’s so important to address any loose shingles as soon as you see them.  Another preventative measure that can be taken is investing in quality flashing.  Flashing is a slender metal bar found in roofing that acts as a water intrusion preventative in spaces where two different surfaces fit together.

Foundation: A cracked foundation is the perfect vessel to deliver water into your home.  As soon as cracks are identified and the damage has been evaluated, the cracks should be filled.

Clogged Gutters: The purpose of rain gutters is to divert rain water away from your home.  If they are clogged, the water will spill over which can result in a multitude of issues including: damp basements, destroyed landscaping, rotting wood (around windows) and icy sidewalks.  Invest in clog-free gutters such as LeafGuard and never experience this issue again.

Exhaust Fans & Venting: Exhaust fans are designed to redirect moisture from your home’s interior to the outdoors.  Be sure yours is in good working order or risk excessive moisture which cancause mold to grow, which will negatively affect your family’s health.

Sprinkler System: The purpose of your sprinkler system is to water your grass, not your foundation.  Make sure that your system’s misting pattern is directed away from your home so that water does not land near your foundation.

Lindus Construction offers free no-obligation estimates on home remodeling projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Replacing Your Windows & Siding Simultaneously

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 25, 2013 – 12:31 pm
Filed under Awning, Bay, Bow, Casement, CenterLock Siding, Construction, Double Hung, Garden, James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding, SeasonGuard Siding, Siding, Sliding, Sweaty Windows, Vinyl Windows, Window Condensation, Windows, Wood Siding, Wood Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Though the weather may not reflect it, the calendar is saying that spring has sprung!  Earlier this month, we took an entire day to get all of our employees in the same room at same time.  (With 100+of us, this can feel like quite a feat!)  “Aha moments” are always abundant when we get everyone in the same room (though a JibJab video and caffeine can be of great assistance in the morning!)  One of our installers brought up the fact that there are several ways a homeowner benefits from replacing their windows and siding at the same time.  While this concept makes perfect sense in our industry, it’s not something a homeowner may even be aware of as they plan home improvement projects. 

Why it’s a Good Idea

Replacing your siding and windows in tandem allows you to achieve the best possible scenario.  It oftentimes saves you money because caulking and sealing window openings & trim and siding joints will only need to happen once.  This saves you in labor costs by not having this work performed twice.  Because these two projects are so often done concurrently, it’s fairly easy to find a contractor that can perform both tasks which also saves you by not having to hire two separate companies.  Another way you save by replacing siding and windows synchronically is in energy costs.

Protecting Your Home if the Work Must Be Performed Separately

If you’ve already had the siding replaced and are now noticing that your windows aren’t as energy efficient as they once were, there are still ways to protect your siding during the removal of the old windows.  One method is to install window trim around current windows when the new siding is installed.  This prevents the new siding from protruding the nailing fins.  This means that when the old windows are removed only the window trims will need to be removed, leaving the siding undisturbed.  Installing window trims with screws, rather than nails, can also minimize damage during the window removal process.

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your windows:

  • You hear your windows rattling when it is windy outside
  • You notice your windows develop an icy or frosty glaze inside the window pane
  • You feel your home becomes drafty with cold air in the winter months and warm air in the summer months
  • You see excessive condensation on your windows or they become fogged
  • You have to prop your windows open because they will not stay open on their own

 

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your siding:

  • You are adding on to your home
  • Your current siding looks weathered and constantly needs new paint
  • Existing siding has extensive insect damage or dry rot
  • Current siding has stains or has weathered unevenly
  • Existing siding shows signs of buckling or decay.

 

Looking for a professional to assist you with new windows & siding?   Let the professionals at Lindus Construction help you. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

 

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The Biggest Mistakes People Make When Building a Home

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Posted by Andy Lindus on December 18, 2012 – 4:24 pm
Filed under Building a House, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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As the adage goes, “Hindsight is always 20/20”. In the construction industry, no more is this true than when it comes to building a home.  Some of the biggest reasons are because it’s something that someone may only do once (if at all) and because of all of the little decisions that go into making the home YOURS.  As a construction company in business since 1979, we’ve learned a thing or two about how to make the experience as positive and stress-free as possible.  Allow us to list off our biggest list of no-no’s when it comes to building a home.

Acting as Your Own General Contractor:

Think of a general contractor as the coach of a team.  Their job is to gather bids, work with any subcontractors and make sure that the work is done correctly, within your budget and on schedule.  A general contractor has connections within the industry and has solid relationships with subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, etc.).  These subcontractors want to perform exceptional work for general contractors because they know that this is how they will stay in business.  Subcontractors are less likely to stay on time and within budget for someone they know they have little chance of ever working with again, such as the homeowner.  While on the front end, hiring a general contractor can seem like an added expense, working with a skilled professional will often keep you on schedule and within budget.

Taking a Laid Back of an Approach:

Your home is one of the biggest investments of your life.  Don’t be passive.  Be present when it comes to making decisions.  Read and understand the contract and have a lawyer review it if necessary.  Ask for copies of the company’s insurance policy because if someone gets hurt on the jobsite and the contractor is not insured, the homeowner can be responsible for the medical bills of the injured.  Once construction has commenced it can be very costly and difficult to make changes to your plans so take time to consider what you want before getting started.

Shoddy House Plans:

 It’s vital that you have a set of plans that clearly detail the layout of your home.  Without this, you cannot get accurate estimates on labor or materials.  Additionally, unclear plans can cost you down the road when a plumber thinks a sink is going in one place and the electrician places lighting in a spot that makes no sense.  This can lead to scheduling conflicts, work that must be redone, etc.  Who pays for this?  YOU.

Cutting Corners on Budget:

 A builder who can build your dream home $30,000 cheaper and 2 months faster than the others you bid out likely has something to hide.  A builder may lowball an offer to get your business and then may tack on expenses as the project goes on.  Even if extra fees aren’t accessed later, it’s likely that a significant difference in pricing also means a significant difference in the quality of materials.  Do you really want to replace your home’s windows in the next 5 years because you took the cheap way out?

Poor Location:

Is it convenient to live near a grocery store, strip mall or 24 hourgas station?  Absolutely!  Have you ever heard of a realtor specifically seeking these locations out for a home buyer?  No!  Why?  While we’re not suggesting your closest neighbor be a half hour away, the most appealing homes to future buyers are not those directly adjacent to areas like this.  Busy streets and stores are not quiet or family friendly.  Consider resale value before settling on a lot because it’s the cheapest around.  Things like slope, water table and terrain also affect how easy it is to construct a home on a piece of land, so be sure to do your homework before buying a lot.    

Building a Home That Doesn’t Make Sense For Your Neighborhood:

Beforeground breaks, take a hard look at homes in the neighborhood and make sure the size of your home is similar to those in the surrounding area.  The smallest and largest home in a neighborhood is often the hardest to sell.  The styling of your home should also be in line with the rest of the neighborhood.  A stucco home is going to stick out like a sore thumb in a neighborhood full of Victorian styled homes.

Having a Budget without a Buffer:

It’s important to establish a budget when buildinga home.  The budget should include a slush fund that takes into consideration unforeseen circumstances and overages because even with the best intentioned bid, incidentals will likely still come up.

Not Planning Ahead:

Think down the road, ten or twenty years.  Is there a need to addadditional rooms to accommodate for an expanded family or aging parents?  It’s best to accommodate for incidentals when building.  If you plan to retire in your home, you may want to consider the number of stairs, width of doorways, etc.  Your toddlers are going to turn into teenagers, are you okay with their bedroom being in a basement with its own entrance?

Working with the Wrong Builder:

Take some time to evaluate several builders sothat you find someone who is right for you.  Be sure to talk to previous clients.  Find someone you connect with and who can transform your ideas into a reality.  It’s also a good idea to check with websites such as the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List and GuildQuality to see what others have to say about these businesses.  Ask potential builders to see examples of previous work both in photos and in person.  Don’t forget that you’ll be dealing with the builder for a span of several months.

Some of the best-built homes in western Wisconsin and the Twin Cities Metro area were designed and built by Lindus Construction. The homeowners love their new custom designed homes; everything is completely functional with no wasted space. The construction quality is impeccable and best of all the homes are low maintenance.  Interested in learning more?  Visit us at www.lindusconstruction .com or call 800-873-1451.

 

Which Window Style Makes Sense in Your Home?

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Posted by Andy Lindus on November 28, 2012 – 2:56 pm
Filed under Awning, Bay, Bow, Casement, Double Hung, Garden, Sliding, Vinyl Windows, Windows, Wood Windows

Shopping for windows can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to dissecting what type of window makes sense in your home.  Terms like “casement” and “double hung” are all terms we’ve heard but may be unsure of what exactly they mean.  Simplify the shopping process by understanding these terms.  Below, we’ll give you the 411 on major window styles, all available in Lindus Construction’s SeasonGuard window line which is the only windows to receive the Energy Star Award three years in a row.

Awning:

By Definition: Hinged at the top, they open outward and leave a small area beneath both sides of the glass.

Ideal For: Bathrooms & kitchens because they can allow odors to quickly escape.

Perks of SeasonGuard Awning Windows: Awning windows which have one of the industry’s lowest air infiltration rates, because they feature three continuous seals of weather stripping.

Bay:

By Definition: Room with a view?  Likely you’ve got bay windows to thank.  They typically consist of one larger window that does not open and a smaller one on each side that can.    

Ideal For: Living rooms but can be used to showcase a view in dining & bedrooms as well.

Perks of SeasonGuard Bay Windows: An anti-water penetration system helps protect against unwanted water and moisture damage. This system protects your most precious investment—your home.

Bow:

By Definition: Similar to bay windows, bow windows provide a panoramic view.  They have anywhere from 3 to 6 sections divided by wood or laminate.

Ideal For: Living Rooms, Kitchens, Dining Rooms & Bedrooms.

Perks of SeasonGuard Bow Windows: Specifically designed to protect your home from excess moisture and the damage it causes.

Casement:

By Definition: They can be hung in pairs or solo.  Casement windows are operated by cranks that swing them outward and provide great air circulation.

Ideal For: Casement windows are great for bathrooms & kitchens where air sometimes needs to be circulated quickly.  They also work well in attics where window openings may be more difficult to reach.

Perks of SeasonGuard Casement Windows: Utilizing three continuous seals of weather stripping, SeasonGuard casement windows have some of the industry’s lowest air filtration rates.  Plus, they are easily operated and have functional hardware which makes cleaning a breeze.

Double Hung:

By Definition: A double hung window looks like two small windows stacked on top of each other vertically; they are the most popular style in today’s homes.

Ideal For: Bedrooms, bathrooms, sunrooms and utility rooms.

Perks of Double Hung SeasonGuard Windows: Minimal maintenance and easy operation with tilt-in feature.  Recessed pick resistant locks offer the best in security.

Garden:

By Definition: A garden window gets its name because it imitates the symmetry of a greenhouse.  It extends out from the side of your home.

Ideal For: Kitchens & Sunrooms.  They offer you a place to showcase your houseplants or tchotchkes.

Perks of SeasonGuard Garden Windows: The adjustable height glass shelf is standard.  The handle is easy to reach and both trapezoids are fully operational which offers worry-free ventilation.

Sliding:

By Definition: Just as the name implies, a sliding window shifts open along a track.

Ideal For: Living rooms, walk-out basement, bedrooms & above kitchen sinks.

Perks of SeasonGuard Sliding Windows: The signature narrowline window design allows for a maximum glass viewing area. 

 

Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

 

Single, Double or Triple Pane?

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Posted by Andy Lindus on November 19, 2012 – 3:58 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Since roughly 90% of a window is glass, your choice of single, double or triple pane can dramatically affect your energy efficiency. Double and triple pane windows trap a layer of still air or gas between the panes which increases insulation. Replacing the windows in your home will help stabilize your home’s climate making air temperature more consistent from different rooms to different levels.

Triple Pane Windows (also known as Triple Glazed Windows)

Triple pane windows will conserve 80-90% more energy than single paned windows. If you live in a cold climate like we do here in the Midwest, you might want to consider triple over double pane windows. Triple pane windows are the most expensive in cost compared to their double and single counterparts, but you will get the utmost comfort. They will greatly reduce condensation, allowing you to maintain a higher indoor relative humidity in cold weather, which is essential to us Midwesterner’s half way through winter. If you can only afford a few triple pane windows, have them installed in the north and east facing rooms in your home so you will get the biggest bang for your buck.

Double Pane Windows (also known as Double Glazed Windows)

Double pane windows will increase your energy efficiency by up to 50% over single paned windows. Double pane windows have all the same benefits as triple pane but can only reach an R-value of roughly 3.5-4.0 whereas triple pane windows can get up to an R-value of 9-10. R-value is the resistantance to heat flow. Double pane windows have significant advantages over single pane windows including better insulation, noise reduction and cleaning. They will also protect the items in your home more from sun damage compared to single pane.

Single Pane Windows (also known as Single Glazed Windows)

The affordability of single paned windows is the best thing this type of window has going for it. Single pane, meaning only one pane of glass, will allow the most daylight in than its double and triple counterparts. If you prefer having as much light as possible in your home, single pane might be right up your alley. Single pane windows have the worst U-factor of any window which means they let out the most heat and are the least energy efficient. Putting storm windows in will help decrease you heat and energy loss if you are unable to upgrade to double or triple. 

Lindus Construction offers our exclusive SeasonGuard window line! Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

 

Why Are My Windows Sweating?

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Posted by Andy Lindus on November 16, 2012 – 1:46 pm
Filed under Sweaty Windows, Window Condensation, Windows
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Now that cooler temperatures have arrived, some homeowners may be noticing a disconcerting condition where windows begin to sweat.  In order to fix this problem, you must understand that sweating occurs when warm, damp air comes in contact with a cold, smooth surface.  (Condensation, such as this, is the reason that a can of pop sweats when you have it outside on a hot, summer day.)   Your home’s humidity levels should be 30-50% and even lower in the winter months.  If your home’s humidity is higher than this, it will be evident through “sweaty” windows.

How does this humidity get in the air?  Several ways, including:

  • Steaming produced from cooking
  • Gas fireplaces without proper ventilation
  • Improperly vented bathrooms
  • Bathroom doors with too small of a gap, that traps moist air in the room
  • Inadequate dryer vents
  • Carbon monoxide exhaled through one’s normal breathing process

Temporary Fixes:

  • Keep your home between 62 & 68 degrees during the winter.
  • Verify that your dryer vents are adequate for your home
  • Run a dehumidifier
  • Always run an exhaust fan when cooking and showering (especially if your bathroom doesn’t have windows)

A Permanent Solution:

The above ideas may temporarily alleviate the problem, but the only way to be completely done with it is to replace the offending windows because the condensation is evidence they are not providing ample insulation.  Windows best suited to provide insulation and increase your home’s energy efficiency are those that are triple paned.  This means they contain 3 panes of glass that are separated by air spaces.  They’re a great way to save on your energy bills because they have more surface area, which is used to absorb both warmth and cold putting less stress on your home’s furnace and air conditioner.  Vinyl and wood frames will work much better than those made of metal because metal is a conductor which means it will increase the sweating issue since it will transfer the cold air indoors.

Call Lindus Construction today for your free estimate on replacement window installation.  We offer custom solutions for your home and are proud to be the home of SeasonGuard Windows, which are the only window to receive the Energy Star Award three years in a row. 

 

What to Know Regarding Replacement Window Energy Efficiency

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Posted by Andy Lindus on September 20, 2012 – 7:39 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Lindus Construction, Uncategorized, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Windows
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Homeowners, at some point in time, will realize it is time to replace windows in their home. Instead of thinking of it as draining your pocketbook, consider the energy savings that you will receive. If you choose SeasonGuard windows you can save 40%, which is unheard of in the window industry. If you know what to look for when in the market for replacement windows, you can be rest assured you made the best decision possible. We are going to discuss the signs your windows need to be replaced, energy efficient terms and what they mean to you as well as the top 5 things to consider in your purchasing process.

 

Signs your windows need to be replaced:

  1. You can feel a draft of cold air in the winter coming from the window sash or frame and you feel heat when standing near your windows in the summer.
  2. You see peeling paint around the exterior of your windows, which may be a sign of condensation, mold or rot. Test the wood frames for these issues by lightly pressing the wood with a pointed tool. If the tool is easily pushed into the wood, it may be decaying.
  3. Visible cracking in the window panes or casing.
  4. Condensation on the windows or between the window panes causing seal failure. Condensation can cause mold to grow.
  5. Your window is not functioning properly when opening and closing.

Know the terms for energy efficient windows

Designed to help consumers measure and compare energy performance of different window brands, The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), provides consistent benchmark ratings on performance characteristics of different windows. There are different terms used by the NFRC and we are going to explain those below.

U-Factor

The rate of heat loss is indicated in the terms of U-factor. The lower the U-factor the greater the window’s resistance to heat flow and the better insulating value it has. Average U-factors range from 0.20-1.20. SeasonGuard windows have a U-factor of 0.22.

Visual Transmittance

Commonly referred to as VT, it measures the amount of light that enters through your windows. VT ratings typically range from 0 to 1. The higher the visible light transmittance, the more light that is transmitted through your window. SeasonGuard windows have a VT of 0.42.

 

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, commonly referred to as SHGC, equates to less solar radiation admitted through your window. A lower Solar Heat Gain Coefficient rating means your home will remain cooler during the summer months. More comfort means more money in your wallet for summer fun. SHGC ratings typically range between 0 and 1. SeasonGuard windows have SHGC of 0.22.

 

Air Leakage Windows are tested for air infiltration to see if they allow air to pass through, and are then assigned a number of 0.3, 0.2 or 0.1. The lower the number, the less drafting you’ll have in your home. The lowest number that the U.S. Department of Energy assigns to air filtration is 0.1. Any window with an air leakage number above 0.3 is considered to have failed the mandated air leakage test. Any number lower than 0.1, not only passes, but exceeds the qualifications that are set by the DOE testing organizations. SeasonGuard windows have an air leakage of 0.1.

 

Top 5 Things to Consider When Purchasing New Replacement Windows

Replacement windows built by today’s standards can pay for themselves by the amount of savings in heating and cooling costs of a home. They also offer a homeowner many different options, such as different types of glass, colors of frames, and many different styles of windows.

 

1. Insulation

Vinyl windows with frames made of uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) extrusions insulated with a polyurethane core are much more energy efficient than wood, multi-chambered hollow vinyl, aluminum, and composite windows. Make sure you look at the R-Factor of both the glass AND frames. Remember, the greater the R-Factor the better insulating value it has. All SeasonGuard Windows are constructed with a polyurethane core. As you can see when comparing SeasonGuard windows the R-factor is unmatched by its counterparts.

Aluminum Windows <0.10

Multi-Chambered PVC Windows 0.75

Wood Windows 1.25

Vinyl Foam-Filled Windows 3.75

SeasonGuard Windows 7.14

2. Corners

If the corners are fusion welded together the corners will never leak, which means neither water nor air will penetrate through the frames of the windows. However, if the corners are either screwed together, mechanically fastened or chemically welded, then they can start to leak over time. All SeasonGuard Windows are completely fusion welded.

 

3. Energy Efficient Glass

Most windows are available with Low-E Glass, some Low-E coatings are pyrolitic (hard coat), some are sputter coated soft coats and some even contain 2 layers of Low-E coating. SeasonGuard windows incorporate multiple layers of reflective metallic coatings into their panes of glass. It’s one more advantage that SeasonGuard Window Systems has over all our competitors.

 

4. Energy Star Rated

Products are tested and rated by the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council), which have certain guidelines windows must pass to be considered energy efficient. Only the best performing windows will have the ENERGY STAR® approval by the U.S. Department of Energy for outstanding energy efficiency, which means utility cost savings for you. The DOE rates products for three different geographical regions in the United States, so many windows may not be ENERGY STAR® approved in all regions of the country. SeasonGuard Windows are ENERGY STAR® approved in all 50 states.

 

5. Warranty

Window manufacturers offer a wide range of warranties. Some offer the warranty for 5 years, many windows are warrantied for 10 years and others offer a lifetime warranty. SeasonGuard Windows’ warranty is a lifetime, non-prorated, transferable warranty. If any part of your window ever breaks or fails, it’s covered!

Lindus Construction is proud to offer SeasonGuard windows to residents in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. About half of the windows that we replace are only 10 years old or younger. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Don’t forget to tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

 

Upcycling? Be Creative During Your Home Renovation Project!

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Posted by Andy Lindus on June 15, 2012 – 12:41 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Construction, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Remodeling, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Windows, Wood Siding
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Upcycling is the process of converting waste materials or useless products into new materials or products of better quality or a higher environmental value. The term upcycling began to gain traction in the mid 90’s. Upcycling allows you to re-invent and re-use materials in your home that are free and could be frightening in abundance during your remodeling process. Since reducing your carbon footprint and waste production seems to be headline news in today’s world take on one of these inspiring upcycling projects and do your part that will benefit the Earth as well as the character of your home. You are able to upcycle all different kinds of items during your home renovation such as wood siding, doors, windows, metal roofing and shutters just to name a few. By easily stripping, painting or even using as is the upcycled materials you will be able to have a center piece in your home that will be desired by many. Below we will discuss some of the resourceful ways to turn your remodeling project debris into stunning focal points in your home.

Wood Siding & Reclaimed Wood
If you are having your wood siding replaced on your home or tearing down an old barn or shed don’t feel that you need to throw away all of the material that is being taken off. A way to upcycle these products are:

•    Make a headboard

•    Build a bench or table and chairs

•    Use it as flooring that you sand and refinish

•    Frame mirrors or make into a useful chalk board frame

•    Add it to your walls as wainscoting

•    Build an island for your kitchen or bar area

Shutters
When replacing your old shutters be sure to save them. Shutters are very versatile when it comes to upcycling in your home. Trust us; you will not believe the endless possibilities with a product you would normally not think twice about discarding.

•    Doors to an armoire

•    Window treatments inside your home

•    Mail organizer

•    Pantry Doors

•    Garden Bench

•    Ceiling Tiles

•    Shelving with hooks

•    Wall Art

•    Clothing Racks

Windows & Doors
Usually the reason that you replace old windows and doors is because they are no longer energy efficient and usually need a facelift due to age. This is why these two products when you are having them replaced in your home look incredible when upcycled. These two products are much desired in the world of upcycling and here is how you can incorporate them into your current living space.

•    Window planters

•    Greenhouse

•    Laundry hamper

•    Picture frame

•    Display case

•    Flower box

•    Tables

Metal Roofing
Who knew that metal roofing could look so cool in your home! These amazing home design ideas incorporating corrugated metal roofing in your home will knock your socks off.

•    Shower area

•    Ceiling tiles

•    Fencing

•    Gardening beds

•    Kitchen backsplash

•    Tree house for the kids

Upcycling movement going on at Lindus Construction

We have a few ladies in our office, Carla Benson, Amy Jilk and Sara Haase, who are starting to become upcycling masters. We have large dumpsters here where our crews come and unload debris materials from the job site. It is not an uncommon sight to see these three out digging for treasure. The ladies are so accustomed at looking for these diamonds in the rough the guys here know to set aside certain items for them such as doors, windows, wood etc. Here are a few pictures of some of their upcycling masterpieces they have created with other people’s trash that has become their own treasure. If you like creative ideas make sure to join Pinterest. If you are already on Pinterest follow us at http://www.pinterest.com/linduscon or Pin our website at www.lindusconstruction.com.

Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate for your home improvement needs today!