Simply put, you can’t have a house without windows and doors! The essential nature of doors and windows—the most important features of a house after the foundation—make it doubly important to make sure both are operating at peak efficiency and are perfectly functional. And when you’re either building a house or adding on to your present residence—or when you are embarking upon window and door repairs—you need to be sure that the windows and doors you install will withstand the inevitable wear, tear and abuse while also providing you and your family the safety and security you want. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop for new windows and doors and/or seek to repair existing windows and doors:
—Windows and doors can help keep out noise. Everyone knows a closed door will muffle the exterior noises, but did you know that windows are at least as responsible—if not more so—for letting noise into the home? A window made of double pane glass can cut the noise by as much as 20 percent. And some vinyl frames can cut noise by up to 50 percent. Imagine a house that is half as loud—you’d love that, right? If that’s not enough, don’t worry, there are windows made specifically to cut out noise that can insulate your house even further. At the other end of the spectrum, if you’re concerned about noise seeping into the house, avoid wood window frames and single glass panes. Those types of windows are the least noise-resistant on the market.
—You want to keep out noise, but light? That’s another story—windows, in particular, bring in natural light that can add value to a home while raising the moods of everyone inside it! For those who live in areas where cold winters are the norm, natural light can help minimize or remove entirely “seasonal affective disorder,” i.e. winter blues. Natural light windows can also reduce heating and cooling bills while making the house “pop” by adding an open and spacious feeling and bringing out the natural colors in everything in the house.
—While repairing windows is often an option, damaged doors most likely should be replaced. Doors are the first line of defense as well as among the first things a visitor will see, so a new door provides both security as well as an impressive visage. Installing a new door can accomplish both objectives while allowing the homeowner to display his or her creative touch. There’s almost no limit to what one can do with door design. Whether you are a fan of the natural wood look, the decorative door look or something in between, the right doors can enhance a home’s appeal, no matter which side of the house you choose for them.
Windows and doors are vital to any homes functionality and appeal, so don’t underestimate the importance of window and door repairs. Paying close attention to window and door repairs will raise the value of your home while maximizing your enjoyment of it!
