Tag Archive for: installation process

The Advantages of Full Frame Window Replacement

Are you thinking about window replacement? Maybe you’d like more light in that back bedroom, or you’ve converted a home office, and the windows no longer fit the bill.

If you’re considering window replacement, full-frame window replacement offers some unique advantages compared to traditional installation. It’s important to consider both options and explore the benefits of each approach before you make a choice.

In some cases, a traditional window replacement might serve your needs. It can help you save money, and either way, replacement windows will help your home become more energy-efficient. You’ll cut back on lost heat and keep your home comfortable. Reach out to Weather Tight today to discuss the possibilities. We can help you decide which type of window replacement is right for your situation. In the meantime, here are the advantages of choosing a full-frame replacement.

 

Image shows a brightly lit, white walled room with several full frame windows with white frames.

Two Different Window Installation Techniques

There are two different window installation techniques that we use. In the traditional method, we remove your existing windows, sash, and tracks but leave the jamb in place. Your new window is custom-made to fit right in the jamb.

During a traditional window installation, we’ll slide your new customized window right in place in a new mainframe that fits within the existing frame and jamb of the window. The advantage of this type of installation is that it goes fast. In addition, because there’s less to change out, it’s generally less expensive. A main disadvantage is that you will lose some window space because of the frame.

The other option is what we call full-frame window replacement. During a full-frame replacement, we remove the existing window, tracks, sash, and casings and remove the entire jamb. This allows us to have a full view of what went on in the previous window installation.

When a window is installed correctly, there should be a nice insulation layer between the jamb and the house’s studs. This helps prevent air infiltration and keeps your home energy efficient and safe. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for us to remove the jamb and discover that the original installer skimped on the insulation (or omitted it entirely).

Advantages of Choosing Full Frame Window Replacement

There are several advantages to full-frame window replacement. It’s important to explore them rather than going with price and convenience alone. It’s especially critical if you’re planning on being in the house for several years. Here’s what you need to know about the advantages of full-frame window replacement.


What are the advantages of a full-frame window replacement vs. pocket installation? Tod and Todd explain in this Home Improvement Tips video!

 


Image shows side by side photos of a window on a brick wall before and after full frame window replacement. Text overlay reads "Full Frame Installation Method"

1. Gain Glass Space

When you choose a full-frame window replacement, you’ll gain at least an inch of glass space in your window. During traditional window replacement, we’re installing a frame within a frame. In full-frame replacement, we’re able to install the window right into the jamb, allowing for a larger window.

This approach to window installation also allows you to change the size of your window in many cases. If you would like to install a larger window or a different type of window, a full-frame installation gives you flexibility because you aren’t working within the confines of the original window hole.

2. Beautiful Customization

With a full-frame window replacement, you have many options for customization.  For example, the factory can make a beautiful brick mold to go around the window. These molds often have contoured lines and other subtle features that can beautify and finish your home. You can choose the trim colors for your window, so there are many options available for your home’s new look.

When you contact your Weather Tight specialist, they can review all the window frames and trim options. Rest assured that you can match or complement almost any interior and exterior look. With full-frame window replacement, there are fewer limitations on your choices and available modifications.

3. Check the Insulation

One of the top advantages of choosing a full-frame window replacement is that it allows you to see what’s really going on inside the window frame. Unfortunately, as mentioned above, many original installers may take shortcuts when it comes to insulation around windows.

During a full-frame replacement, we make sure that the window is thoroughly insulated and that it’s sealed tight against the studs of your home. You’ll get better protection against air leaks, water leaks, and even sound with stronger insulation.

4. Detect Any Hidden Issues

Of course, every homeowner hopes they don’t discover any hidden issues when removing the windows from their home, but it occasionally happens. Choosing a full-frame replacement is crucial when the window isn’t level or square (as seen in some older homes) or is not up to code. During replacement, we can make sure there aren’t any leaks, pests, or mildew problems in the walls surrounding your window.

A homeowner may be unaware that the wood around their window has degraded and rotted over time. When we do a full-frame window replacement, we can help you discover any concerns to ensure that your home will be beautiful and protected for years to come.

New windows are maintenance-free, with no painting or touch-up required. You’ll no longer need to deal with deteriorated wood along your window frames. Instead, you’ll have a clean, beautiful window that looks great and improves the comfort of your home.

If you’re ready to explore your options for window replacement, reach out today. We have some fantastic deals, especially for homeowners who are hoping to replace multiple windows. Contact us today for a no-obligation discussion. We’re ready to help you love the look and feel of your home.

 

The Weather Tight Process: What to Expect from Our Visit

So you’re considering Weather Tight for your next home improvement project. We might be a tad biased, but we sincerely believe that you are making a great choice! We value each of our customers greatly, and we work hard to ensure you are satisfied with the entire experience. Being Employee Owned, it is important that we treat you as a part of our own family.

To that end, we frequently have customers who inquire about the Weather Tight process. For example, what should you expect when you decide to purchase a product from Weather Tight? What do you need to prepare for? How do we ensure that the product will be accurate and meet your expectations?

These are all excellent questions and something we seek to address in the Weather Tight process.


Below, Tod & Todd explain more about what to expect when a Weather Tight Product Expert consults with you on your home renovation needs.


What to Expect During the Weather Tight Process

When you make a call to Weather Tight, you can schedule a visit with a trustworthy product expert. Our friendly staff will ask you a few questions about what type of service you’re considering—windows, doors, siding, roofing, or something else.

If you’d like to see products and samples in person, we have an Idea Center located in West Allis, ready to welcome you for a visit. Our staff on-site can answer your general questions, or you can schedule a time to meet a product expert at the showroom for an in-depth planning session on your home improvement project. Keep in mind, we can generally discuss estimates with you, but until we see your product and assess if there is any damage such as rot, moisture, or other variants, it will be hard to nail down an exact price for you. We pride ourselves on custom-making products for YOUR home.

Our product experts are knowledgeable and friendly. We work hard to ensure you feel comfortable and are able to answer any and all of your questions to make the best-educated decision for your home. We know our products and the Weather Tight process speak for themselves. We use some of the highest quality materials in the business, and our qualified installers ensure your job will be done right.

As you work with your product expert at your home, they will take measurements and gather all the specs needed to give you an accurate price quote on the job. The expert will clarify all questions and get you the information you need. They will review materials and options—ensuring you get windows, roofing, siding, or doors that enhance the look of your home, increase value, and boost your curb appeal.

What to Expect After the Product Expert Leaves

Once you’ve decided to proceed with your Weather Tight project, your product expert returns the information to our staff to start the ball rolling. Your project will be triple-checked for accuracy as it’s entered into our computer system. We use digital scanning to ensure that employees can access any information they need about a project. If you have decided to utilize financing for your purchase, our in-house financing team will work to make sure we get you the best rates and programs that fit your budget and needs.

An Expert Measure Technician (Expeditor) will pay a visit to your home. During their visit, they will confirm the measurements down to a tee, assess the scope of the project, and then they will review the work order with you to make sure all t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted. We take this step to ensure that every order is accurate and as expected. Many of our orders, particularly windows, are custom-made for the exact dimensions of your home. Each home is a little different, and we want to be sure your new windows fit perfectly. They are also able to answer any last-minute questions that you may have forgot to ask your product expert.

Once the order is submitted to one of our top-of-the-line manufacturers, they get to work assembling the needed components of your home improvement project. When the product is delivered to us, we will call you to let you know and work to coordinate an installation date. Upon arrival, we inspect each order thoroughly and check it against the work order again to ensure it’s as expected.

Time for Your Installation

When it’s time for your installation, our staff will contact you to confirm the appointment. We will explain exactly what you should expect during our work on your home.

On the day of your installation, we will do our best to ensure minimal disruption to your day-to-day activities. Many of our projects focus on your home’s exterior, but we may also need to work inside for some projects, like window installation. We take every precaution to keep our work area clean and treat your home with the respect it, and you both deserve.

Our skilled professionals work efficiently, and many projects are finished in just a few days. They clean up and remove the debris after the project. Your installer will walk through the project with you and show you everything you need to know to maintain and operate the new product. They are also happy to answer any questions you may have at that time.

After our visit, you’ll hear from a member of our office staff to confirm that the installation met your expectations and that you’re pleased with the results. We will also ask for your feedback via survey or comment card. Our Senior Management staff carefully reviews each result and comment left. We want to know that you’re happy with our work!

The Weather Tight process helps us make sure that customers’ needs are met and that they feel good about the outcome of their project. We know that there are many choices out there, but thanks to our unparalleled commitment to customer satisfaction, dedication to employees, and connection to the community, we’re Wisconsin’s most recommended home remodeler. We’ve received many accolades and awards for our work, but repeat customers and recommendations are what we hold in the highest regard.

Because Weather Tight is employee-owned with over 35 years of home remodeling experience, we know that reputation matters. So if you’re looking for a home remodeler that you can trust, reach out to Weather Tight today. We look forward to working with you to update and beautify your home.

 

Does Your House Need a Face Lift? It’s Time for Siding Replacement!

Your home is a place you should feel proud to live in. When you view the outside, does the siding look straight, clean, and bright? Or is your home starting to look dated, old, and dilapidated? Is it time for siding replacement?

Most of the time, homeowners approach us for siding replacement due to cosmetic reasons. They want to increase the curb appeal and value of their home, so it needs a little facelift.

And while the look of your home often indicates when it’s time for siding replacement, there are other reasons to replace your siding beyond the aesthetic. Here’s how to tell if it’s time for siding replacement and what the process look likes when you contact Weather Tight.

Image shows a home with light siding and two roof peaks

How to Know if It’s Time for Siding Replacement

When customers approach us, they’re often hoping for a fresh look for their home. They may have old cedar siding that’s faded or cracked. Their aluminum siding may have dents, bubbling, and chipped paint. In Wisconsin, they may have the old “chalet style” homes with cement board and cedar trim (quite a popular look in the mid-twentieth century).

No matter what the current façade of your home looks like, one universal truth applies: if you’re no longer proud of the way your home looks, it’s probably time to consider new siding.

A facelift in the form of an exterior update restores your pride in your beautiful home. New siding increases your curb appeal and can increase the resale value of your house. Better yet, it’s a lower-maintenance solution. Many homeowners are simply tired of the effort and upkeep required to maintain older, deteriorating exterior materials.

Siding replacement also improves the insulation of your home. With breathable Tyvek house wraps installed under the siding, you’ll avoid heat loss and air infiltration. You’ll save energy and keep your home more comfortable with brand-new siding.

There are other underlying factors that siding replacement addresses as well. For example, during the replacement process, many homeowners are surprised to discover rotting, mildewed siding or cement board, insect infestations, small birds, and other critters who have built nests in the walls of their homes. With cedar homes, many homeowners complain about the noise from woodpeckers who want to get at the bugs inside the walls. The solution isn’t to deter the noisy birds but to address the underlying issue of the bugs inside your siding.

We hear many different concerns from homeowners—bugs, birds, cold and uncomfortable rooms. That’s why it’s important to call a professional if you notice any type of concern. Siding that’s falling off, paint that’s bubbling or cracking, and dented or damaged siding all indicate bigger problems.

The good news is siding replacement is surprisingly affordable. Better yet, it’s an investment in your home, giving it an instant modern update. Siding offers effortless upkeep as well.

When you decide that it’s time for siding replacement, you’re investing in the future resale value of your house. You’re also saving yourself the time, energy, and stress that comes from maintaining older house materials. Replacement siding is an all-around smart investment.

Your Initial Consultation: Deciding on Siding Replacement

When you call Weather Tight to consult about siding replacement, we’ll schedule a visit with an expert representative who will come to your home.

During the initial assessment visit, your Weather Tight representative will ask many questions about your needs, wants, and the desired look for your home exterior. They will walk around with you, inspecting and examining your current exterior finish and helping to identify any issues like rot, insect infestations, and moisture problems.

Your Weather Tight representative will also take measurements to determine how much siding is needed for your home. They’ll help you decide on the type of siding to best suits your needs and the timeframe for scheduling your replacement. Siding season is year-round, weather permitting.

Spring is often a prime time for siding orders, as homeowners assess damage from the winter months. When we spend time outside, we start to notice areas where our homes could use an update. Fall is another popular time for siding installation. We all nest in the fall as we prepare for wintertime, but it is important to consider any time of year as a time to review your siding.

A siding install from start to finish can usually be completed in about one week (obviously depending on the materials, size of the job, and weather. On average, expect installers to be there for 5-10 days as they complete the job. The only restrictions homeowners may face is where to put the dumpster and occasionally, mother nature brings on a thunderstorm that may cause some delays! You stay in your house and watch the process, so there’s no need to find a place to stay during the installation process.

 

What Type of Home Siding Should I Choose?

Even if your home features an outdated color, peeling, or unattractive paint, it’s a lot of work to update the exterior. If the updates aren’t carried out by a professional, you may also run into issues down the line.

Fortunately, there are different types of maintenance-free siding available to address many of your concerns and beautify your home’s exterior. When you decide it’s time for siding replacement, consider your best options.

Vinyl

Image shows a collage of a home before and after siding replacement

Vinyl siding has the appearance of a real cedar-sided home. It’s very beautiful, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. With vinyl, there’s an application of foam backing on each piece, giving it the rigidity and stiffness to protect against warping and waving. The foam backing acts as insulation, adding another blanket of protection for the outside of your home. Vinyl comes with a lifetime warranty as long as you live in your home (and for one more consecutive homeowner if transferred correctly with the manufacturer).

Engineered Wood (Diamond Kote Siding)

Image shows a home with Diamond Kote siding installed

Another great option favored by many planned communities and homeowner associations is engineered wood siding. This siding offers a very natural look that meets HOA guidelines. Painted with a special long-lasting Diamond Kote paint, our engineered wood siding comes with a 30-year warranty against peeling and fading. This looks like real cedar siding and it’s beautiful.


Want to more about the advantages of engineered wood siding? Check out this Tod & Todd’s Home Improvement Tips video for more!

 

 


 

The Siding Installation Process

Once you’ve decided on the siding that’s right for your home, your siding lead installer and/or project manager will go through the entire process with you to ensure you’re on the same page and you’re satisfied with the product. You’ll get plenty of updates throughout the process—we always keep you in the loop.

To start, our installation team will take off your old siding. A good siding installer will never go over the top of existing siding. Laying siding over the top of your previous exterior finish may seem like a fast solution but it’s really only covering up a problem like a band-aid covers a wound. A reputable installer will find the root of the problem and address it from scratch. This protects your investment and the life of your home.

Once the old siding is removed, they will lay the Tyvek—a protective home wrap that blocks moisture from entering your home. Tyvek is a one-way breathing material that allows vapor from the inside of the house to escape but doesn’t allow moisture to get in. It’s a perfect weather barrier that adds to the insulation (and temperature control) of your home.

When the Tyvek is down, they will start to install the new siding. First, they will install the trim and then lay in the siding, ensuring the finish is waterproof and beautiful.

Your replacement siding process depends on the material you choose, the size of your home, and other factors. Fortunately, the process isn’t disruptive to your day-to-day living. You can live in your home comfortably while the installation is taking place.

If you’re ready to schedule an update to your home, it’s a great time! Call Weather Tight to assess your home’s exterior and help you decide if it’s time for siding replacement.

When is the Right Time to Replace Old Windows?

Is it time to replace old windows in your home? Not only do new windows add beauty and value to your home, they also increase safety, security, and energy efficiency. There are few better investments than beautiful new windows for your house. If you’re wondering when to replace old windows, here are some questions to consider:

  • Are your windows stylish, up-to-date, and in excellent condition?
  • Do your windows ventilate air properly (but remain airtight when closed)?
  • Do your windows open and close smoothly, without extra effort?
  • Are your windows accessible and easy to clean?

If you answered no to any of these questions, then chances are you’re not completely satisfied with the current windows in your house. If it’s time to replace old windows, we’re here to help.

With over 35 years of experience in the window business, the window experts at Weather Tight know how to help you through every step of window replacement. Our high-quality products, smooth installation, and phenomenal customer service are guaranteed to make you extremely happy with your decision to upgrade and replace old windows within your home.

 

Time to Replace Old Windows in a West Allis Bungalow

Weather Tight recently worked on a 75-year-old bungalow-style house in West Allis. This was a perfect example of a home desperately in need of brand new windows. Typical of the age and style, the home featured a large picture window with two surrounding double-hung windows. While the look of the windows fit the home, the old windows had presented several issues for the homeowners.

Image shows a large bay window

One of the main issues was air infiltration in the winter from the leaky windows. We all know Wisconsin winters mean drafty windows and cold air leaks. As is often the case, the homeowners saw condensation in between the panes of glass in the windows. This condensation was a sure sign that air and moisture were making their way inside the bungalow.

Like many Wisconsin homeowners, these folks relied on plastic shrink wrap covering their windows as an attempt to solve their leaky window problem. This temporary winter window fix is common but leaves residents with more disruption than satisfaction. The unsightly plastic wrap on windows is hard to apply and rarely creates a tight seal. The plastic blocks outside views, sun exposure, and warmth.

Perhaps the most frustrating part of this annoying eyesore is that the plastic wrap on the windows must be replaced every season (so windows can be cleaned and opened in the summer months). This means more wrestling with a blow dryer and double-sided tape for a winter window solution that’s both ugly and ineffective. Not to mention the damage double-stick tape can do to beautiful woodwork. When we arrived at the bungalow, we could see it was definitely time to replace old windows and improve everyday life for this family.

Weather Tight experts quickly identified ventilation as the biggest issue in this case. As indicated by the moisture in between the panes, as well as the drafts, the air was getting in despite the homeowner’s best efforts. The smartest option was to replace the old windows with three beautiful new double-hung windows. The new windows blended perfectly with the historic style of the home, increasing curb appeal and adding value to the property.

Best of all, the new windows allowed the homeowners to better control the temperature of their space all year long. No more drafty Wisconsin winters, plus great cooling airflow during the dog days of summer! Installing windows with double ventilation capabilities from both the top and bottom was the best fit for this home and would serve the client for years to come.

With so many window options out there, window selection may seem overwhelming. Trust experts familiar with the unique needs of Wisconsin homeowners so you can find the perfect replacement windows for your house. You want the highest quality windows to beautify and protect your home but to also fit the look and style of your property.

Protecting Woodwork During Window Installation

With this West Allis home, the right window installation process was particularly important, especially due to the special woodwork surrounding their windows. As is the case with many of the beautiful bungalows, flats, and cottages here in Milwaukee, the craftsmanship is second to none. Preserving woodwork and brickwork is an important part of the window replacement process.

Due to Weather Tight’s experience with the historic and beautiful architecture of Milwaukee homes, we know how to protect craftsman features. We ensure our new windows enhance the look and function of the home rather than detract. The result is seamless, efficient, and a strong improvement that compliments the craftsmanship.

For our West Allis bungalow windows, we decided on a pocket install for the new window installation. Pocket installation is a simple process in which the existing window frame is left intact. New windows are measured to fit within the given space perfectly. This procedure leaves the wood trim and features untouched and preserves the finish.

New Windows Vent in the Summer and Stop Drafts in the Winter

Another big concern for our West Allis family was the fact that their old windows didn’t open easily to let in the fresh air.

Older windows become sticky and stubborn. As the seal and pane erode over time, the window shifts and no longer opens with ease. Often the glass either becomes loose in the pane or the window requires brute force to open. The result is a window that’s tough, loud, and frustrating. Wrestling to open the window is more trouble than it’s worth, and of course, windows that won’t open (or feature loose glass) are a major safety concern.

The double hung replacement windows selected for the bungalow open with ease. These new windows feature screens, which provide ventilation from both sides. In the summertime, a natural breeze will easily flow into the house, giving it an open, airy feel. Of course, the screens efficiently block any outside bugs and serve as a protective shield for the room without sacrificing any airflow.

While cool breeze in the summer is important, it’s also important to protect against drafts and heat loss in the winter. After a careful installation and a lot of precision, the new windows are insulated around the edges to ensure all surfaces are airtight. Using the latest in window sealing and insulation technology, Weather Tight windows ensure there’s no cold airflow in the wintertime. Our windows are equipped with a maintenance-free exterior and fuel-efficient glass.

Fuel-efficient glass is important for many different reasons. According to the Department of Energy, it’s imperative to replace old windows with energy-efficient glass because of the significant impact on both heat gain and heat loss throughout your home. Windows are accountable for 25% to 30% of the temperature energy. Replacing old windows with new energy-efficient windows with fuel-efficient glass will result in a lower heating and energy bill.

Beautiful Replacement Windows & Happy Customers

The last part of the window replacement process is installing brand-new trim on the outside area surrounding the new windows. We take a great deal of pride in the appearance of our windows, always adding top-quality aluminum trim to the finish.

Image shows a bay window from the outside

With the West Allis bungalow project, our team was also installing new siding for the homeowners to complete their full home makeover. The window trim was added as part of the final siding process, giving the home a polished update with plenty of curb appeal!

Maintaining their new, beautiful windows won’t be a problem for this West Allis family. The cleaning process is simple with Weather Tight installations. Keeping your windows sparkling is never a concern for our customers!

Our windows are engineered to tilt inside. This ingenious feature allows homeowners to clean both the inside and out easily (without climbing a ladder)! Simply open the window to the inside and shine them from the comfort of your own home. Cleaning our windows is simple. We keep our customers happy!

Our expertise has made us Wisconsin’s most recommended window installer and remodeler. We’re constantly striving to please our customers and give them the home improvements of their dreams. Windows are a sound investment and an important way to update your home. Now is the perfect time to replace old windows with new and improved windows from Weather Tight.

Window updates are surprisingly affordable. Visit our Weather Tight contact page and fill out the online form to receive a free, no-obligation quote. Schedule a free appointment with a windows specialist who will come to your home and assess your needs!

Hear from Tod and Todd

Tod Colbert, President of Weather Tight, and Todd Schulz, Vice President, enjoy giving their customers the best advice on all home improvement aspects, including windows, siding, doors, roofing, and gutters.

To learn more about the window improvements made to the West Allis bungalow house, visit Tod & Todd’s Home Improvement Tips and to learn how Weather Tight was able to successfully replace old windows and transform the problematic double-hung picture window into a beautiful three double-hung set.

Should you invest in Diamond Kote® siding? Indubitably! Let us tell you why.

It is spring in Wisconsin.. well.. sort of. I am starting to think Mother Nature went AWOL. However- we know that in due time the grass will start to brighten, displaying lush hues of striking emerald. We will find ourselves able to enjoy those lazy sun-drenched afternoons – accompanied by the unambiguous aroma of a charcoal barbecue. Everything that winter left barren & achromatic will come alive & I think we all deserve to catch up on our depleted levels of vitamin D! :)

Autumn Prepardness- Gutter tips for keeping fall yard maintenance, a breeze.

Oh sweet, sweet summer.. slowly turning to fall in its vivid, vibrant glory.

fall-leave-gpxI stand at my kitchen window each morning, overlooking the sprawling old (& messy) locust tree & my barren patio. I slowly sip my coffee & mentally make a note for myself to get out there and start with the transitional work on the yard from summer to fall. Autumn is my favorite season, but I grow nostalgic for my poor hibiscus that is barely able to force out its blooms, for my daisies that stopped reaching up at the sun weeks ago &, well, my tomato plants which have all but shed their very roots.

Pocket Install VS. Full Frame Install- Know the difference, know the benefits.

Many homeowners understand that there is a lot of time and research that goes into shopping for new windows. However- the most difficult question might not be which company you go with, but rather which window installation type benefits you the best? How do you know which one is the better option & do you even know that there are various options available? There are many factors that can determine the type of window installation to go with. To determine which installation option is best for you & your project needs, it is important to know the difference between pocket (insert) install vs full frame installation – so that you can decide which is best for your project. There are many pros with both install types, but knowing when you need to go with one or the other is sometimes the bigger task at hand!