Posted by Jason Gettum on Wed, Aug 22, 2012 @ 11:50 AM
A larger window adds light to a dim space!
Problem:
A small, octagonal window in the exterior wall of an Indianapolis area open, two story section of the home is out of scale with the rest of the home.
Worse, the size of the window does not allow enough natural light in to illuminate the space. (see existing photo, above right).
Solution:
In order to encourage more natural light into the space, as well as match the size of the unit to the home, the under-sized octagon window was removed and disposed of. The installation of a new, larger window unit required removal and alteration of the existing siding, the interior drywall and the existing window opening structure. After demolition and modification of the existing opening was complete, the new picture window was installed.
And not just any builder grade window unit was used! The homeowner chose a high-performance window manufactured by Marvin Windows and Doors. The new unit features a low-maintenance, aluminum clad exterior with matching aluminum clad brick mould, energy-efficient Low-E insulated dual pane glass with window grills in between.
The exterior cladding is Marvin's "Wineberry" color, to compliment the paint scheme of the existing window units in the home.
All in all, the problem of not enough natural light was solved!
To discuss solutions for problems at your home, contact Gettum Associates, the Indianapolis remodeling experts.
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Posted by Jason Gettum on Thu, Jul 12, 2012 @ 09:25 AM
Clean your window screens as part of routine summer maintenance
Window screen maintenance tips and advice
Oftentimes overlooked during yearly maintenance, window screens need regular cleaning and care. Gettum Associate Inc, Indianapolis home experts recommend removing and cleaning window screens every year for maximum performance in the home.
Window screens are generally made of fiberglass or aluminum mesh and require proper maintenance to allow for maximum airflow into the home and prevent insects from getting in the house.
Window screen cleaning tips:
To clean window screens, remove the screens from the window frame, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Place the screens on a flat surface (such as the driveway) and use mild soap and water with a soft bristle brush to remove dirt and grime. Clean both sides of the screen and around the interior and exterior of the frame. Rinse off the unit with lukewarm water. Allow the screen to dry completely before replacing in the window.
Never pressure wash screens or windows because the force of the water may damage the units. Use extreme care when cleaning aluminum mesh, since it can be dented or creased if too much. pressure is placed on the screen.
Maintaining Window Screens:
While most window screens may remain in the windows year-round, some homeowners prefer to store screens during winter months. If you choose to remove your window screens, make certain to store them either in an upright or flat position. Covering them with plastic or a sheet will keep them clean while in storage. And, make sure nothing sits on top of (or leans against) the screens to eliminate the chance of bending of the frames or poking a hole in the screens.
If a small hole or tear does occur in your screen, patch kits are available in most hardware and home stores. Homeowners unhappy with the look of a patch (or who have a large gash in their screen) may choose to get the screen mesh replaced on the entire unit. Many cities have screen repair services where you can take your screen frame and have new mesh added to replace torn mesh.
Window Screen Safety:
Screens are not meant for animals or children to lean up against. Screens can be damaged or pop out if a child or animal pushes against them with enough force. Never consider a screen a safety feature in the home … they’re available only to allow in the flow of air, not to restrict anything of force. Another safety tip for the home is not to place cribs or furniture directly under a window. Children can climb and push out on the screens when the windows are open, resulting in a potential fall.
Window screens are terrific for ventilating the house and keeping insects outside, but that’s all they’re intended to do. Maintain their screens regularly and make sure to keep the bottom sash of windows closed when children and pets are around to prevent potential problems.
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Posted by Jason Gettum on Fri, Feb 24, 2012 @ 10:04 AM
Insulate around your windows with spray foam insulation
If you have completed a DIY (do-it-yourself) window replacement, without the help of an experienced contractor we hope you have not skipped an important step! One of the most important things you can do is insulate around the new window opening. This would be the space between the window frame and the stud wall framing.
In the past, this area was somewhat to difficult to properly insulate. Most contractors would "stuff" fiberglass insulation in these spaces in hopes to keep out, or at least slow air movement from the outside in. This insulating practice still occurs, and in fact, if properly done, can be an effective means in insulating around your windows. But, for many, it is difficult to fill the cavity being insulated without leaving some voids. However, there is a better product and one that has gained widespread-use among contractors and DIY'ers alike. Enter the advantages of spray foam insulation!
Spray foam insulation has become popular, not just for windows and doors, but as wall and ceiling insulation also. While there are many types on the market now, we will focus on the product that is available to everyone at almost every hardware and home improvement supply stores. Marketed as "Great Stuff" by Dow Chemical Corp. (http://building.dow.com/na/en/products/sealants/windowdoor.htm), this expandable foam sealant is great in sealing cracks in a wide variety of materials, including windows and doors. Visit the Dow Website at the link above for a description of the full line of spray foam insulations available. There are also similar products available from manufacturer's such as 3M and DAP, however some of these may be latex-based sealants, while Dow's great stuff is a closed-cell, polyurethane product. Consult Dow's website for more information on the benefits of using a closed-cell, polyurethane based spray foam product.
Prior to the introduction of specific types of spray foam for different applications, there was only one type of foam insulation available in a can. I can remember using this product and you had to be careful to not over-fill the cavity. The insulation would expand, in some cases too much, and push window frames out of plumb and out of square. With the introduction of spray foam, specific to window and door installations, the threat of this problem was eliminated. The window and door insulating foam has a special formula that does not expand as rapidly. It also cures "softer". As well, it can be sanded and painted if desired.
There are several advantages of spray foam insluation when compared to chinked or stuffed insulation in relation to insulating window and door frames. The biggest advantage is spray foam will expand to fill "nooks and crannies" in the opening. As mentioned above, it was always hard to tell whether or not you were reaching the back of the cavity with stuffed fiberglass. The opening needed to be firmly packed, which for fiberglass is not a good thing as fiberglass utilizes pockets of air between the fiberglass fibers to provide its insulating value.
Another advantage is spray foam insulation is not affected by water. It can "seal" out water even, just like a caulk. Also, since it is closed-cell, it will not take-on or absorb water. However, it is recommended that the exterior perimeter of windows and doors are caulked as a first line of defense from water intrusion. As well, the interior of your window or door perimeter should be caulked also. If not for aesthetics, it is again one more step you can take to stop air infiltration.
For those who have had old windows (especially those with old sash-weights) upgraded by replacement window sashes or pocket-type windows you want to verify that the old openings and weigh pockets have been insulated. Typically, you can access this pocket by removing the trim around your windows. Carefully pry the casing away with a stiff putty knife, or a special trim removal tool and check to be sure these cavities were filled with insulation. If they are missing insulation, or are insulated with fiberglass, you can insulate with polyurethan foam insulation. The, you can replace the trim, knowing you have properly insulated between the windows and the rough-opening framing. (see photo at right)
In summary, polyurethan spray foam insulation, typically purchased in cans from your local home improvement center, is a superior way to insulate openings around windows and doors. Although stuffed fiberglass insulation is acceptable, spray foam insulation has many advantages which will add to the comfort of your home. For questions, do not hesitate to consult a reputable Indianapolis area remodel contractor, such as Gettum Associates Inc. or feel free to ask your question to the Indianapolis Home Expert by clicking below:
