Windows

Few home styles have the commanding presence of a Colonial home. With its pleasing symmetry and timeless elegance, Colonial homes are one of the most popular styles in the U.S. today.

When the time comes to replace the windows in your Colonial home, you will want to choose something that preserves this classic style and works well with the rest of the house. Here are some tips for choosing the right windows for your colonial home.

1. Use Decorative Grids

In the past, Colonial homes featured small-paned windows because the glass size at the time was rather limited. Panes measured 8 to 9 inches wide, and 10 to 12 inches tall, and they were held within the window sash using muntins.

These days, however, decorative grids are used to get the same look on modern windows with bigger pieces of glass. Traditional-style windows with grids placed between the two glass panes can make cleaning far simpler. This is an increasingly popular choice as it lets you get the look of window muntins that set Colonial windows apart while enjoying a smooth glass surface.

2. Choose the Right Color Finishes

For Colonial homes, white window frames with black or white shutters are the colors of choice for a traditional look. However, many homeowners are now using earth tones such as cream and brown. The key is to keep it conservative, so it does not detract from the understated style of Colonial homes.

3. Consider the Home’s Colonial Subtype

Homeowners should also consider the Colonial subtype of their home when making their window selection. Here are some tips for the most common subtypes in the U.S.

Cape Cod Colonials

With their gable-front dormers and minimalist feel, Cape Cod colonials are the style of home that immediately comes to mind when most people think of Colonial homes. Casement windows are a good choice here because they have the appearance of double-hung windows but can provide additional exterior detailing.

Cottage-style windows are also a good choice, with top and lower sashes featuring different heights according to the grill pattern of the windows. Stick to lighter trim on the windows in Cape Cod colonials.

Dutch Colonials

Dutch Colonials have a gambrel roof inspired by barns and a cozy appearance that has made this an enduringly popular style. Opt for double-hung windows, which can open simultaneously from the top down and bottom up for efficient air circulation and utility bill reductions. A picture window can also work well with some types of Dutch colonials.

Georgian Colonials

If your home features a big dormer in the middle flanked by gables and large multi-paned windows across the front, it is an example of the popular Georgian Colonial style.

Double-hung sash windows are the window of choice for homes of this style, and their two opening parts make sliding them up or down convenient; single-hung windows provide a similar look at a better price point as their top section is fixed. If ease of cleaning is a concern, choose windows that tilt inward to make the job easier.

Decorative grids are a must-have on a Georgian Colonial, with 9×9 and 12×12 placements being traditional choices. Casement windows will likely be needed in the upper bedrooms of homes in this style to comply with egress requirements.

Spanish Colonials

Spanish Colonial Revival homes may have once been limited to neighborhoods in Florida and California, but they are being increasingly found throughout the nation, where homeowners are relishing the unique look of their light stucco and tile roofs.

For these homes, narrow, tall French casement windows are the top choice. Choose varieties with horizontal panes instead of vertical ones. When it comes to colors, the frame, trim and sash should be kept the same shade, preferably one that contrasts with the stucco color of the home.

Look for Energy Savings

Upgrading your windows for energy efficiency presents you with the opportunity to improve your home’s overall cost savings. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated windows to save money on your utilities and make your home more comfortable indoors, thanks to their superior temperature regulation capabilities. Moreover, their high insulation can reduce draftiness, condensation and noise intrusion.

Get in Touch With the Northern Virginia Window Contractors

Colonial homes, with their classic beauty and symmetry, will never go out of style. If you wish to update your Colonial home’s windows while keeping its traditional style, be sure to work with window contractors who have experience working on Colonial homes.

Adelphia Exteriors has a team of Northern Virginia window replacement and installation professionals who can help you choose the best colonial window style, glass and color to improve your Colonial home’s energy efficiency and curb appeal. Get in touch today to find out more about our residential window services or to request an estimate.

Colonial-style homes are one of the most popular types of homes in the U.S. thanks to their classic beauty and wide appeal. Although there are several varieties of colonial homes, one of the most prominent features shared by all variations is the emphasis on symmetry with multiple windows.

If you have a colonial home, you may be wondering how to choose the right windows to fit this style. Here is a look at the most important considerations.

What Is A Colonial Home?

Colonial homes are normally rectangular in shape and feature steep, pointed roofs. Symmetry is their main defining characteristic, so the front door is normally placed in the center of the home’s façade and surrounded by symmetrical rows of vertical windows. The style was popular among colonists in the 17th and 18th centuries.

However, there are several subtypes of colonial homes, and this should serve as the driving force behind a homeowner’s window selection. Here is a look at some popular colonial styles and the best windows to suit them.

Windows For Georgian Colonial Homes

One of the most popular styles of colonial homes in the U.S. is the Georgian colonial, which features a large dormer in the center with gables on the side, with the front covered in large multi-pane windows. These homes often feature bay windows on the main floor to provide some sophistication and balance.

Choose double-hung sash windows if you are looking for something that is typical for this style. Double-hung windows have two opening parts that can slide up or down; single-hung windows are a more affordable alternative that has a fixed top section with a moveable bottom one. Some can also tilt inward for easier cleaning.

In Georgian colonial homes, grids using 12×12 or 9×9 placements are especially popular on the windows. Grids were originally used to allow for smaller planes of glass to be used, but modern versions tend to use larger glass sheets with decorative grids to give them the desired look.

Although historic Georgian colonial homes featured double-hung dormer windows, casement windows are typically used these days to meet the egress requirements for upper bedrooms.

Windows For Dutch Colonial Homes

Dutch colonial homes have been enjoying a bit of a comeback lately but have never gone out of style. With their barn-like gambrel roof, double Dutch door in the main entryway, and symmetrical design, they have undeniable curb appeal and coziness.

At each end of the top floor, dormers or regular windows should be placed, while a picture or dormered window centered at the top of the main floor is a trademark of the style. Other essential design features include flared eaves setting off the windows.

Double-hung windows are an ideal choice for homes of this style thanks to the ease of opening them and their timeless look. One of their most popular attributes is the ability to open them from the top down and from the bottom up at the same time, allowing hot air to exit the home while cooler air enters it. This can lead to reductions in utility bills, but be sure you choose high-quality windows that open and close smoothly. A strategically placed picture window also looks good on a Dutch colonial home.

Windows For Cape Cod Colonial Homes

Cape Cod colonials are a staple in the northeastern U.S., but it is a style that has gained traction throughout the nation on account of its attractive gable-front dormers and minimalist detailing.

For a Cape Cod colonial, casement windows are the window of choice thanks to the extra exterior detailing they provide and their ability to mimic the look of double-hung windows. Another popular option is a double-hung window known as cottage style, which has top and lower sashes of varying heights as determined by the window’s grille pattern.

Cape Cod colonials tend to use lighter tones, with white window exteriors and trim being the most popular color choice.

Windows For Spanish Colonial Homes

Spanish Colonial Revival architecture was brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers. Most popular in Florida and California, this style can be found throughout the U.S. and features light-colored stucco walls and chimneys with tile roofs.

The French casement window is the top choice for Spanish Colonial Revival homes. They are typically narrow and tall and divided into horizontal panes rather than vertical ones. The window frame, trim and sash are usually all the same color. Choose a shade that contrasts with the exterior stucco of the home for a true Spanish Colonial Revival feel.

Reach Out To The Northern Virginia Window Contractors

Traditional, symmetrical and timeless, colonial-style homes are classically beautiful. If you would like to update the appearance of your colonial home while respecting its historic character, you need window contractors who are experienced in working with these homes.

At Adelphia Exteriors, our Northern Virginia window replacement and installation professionals can help you determine the right style, color, and glass for colonial-style windows to make your home welcoming, beautiful and energy efficient. Reach out today to learn more about our residential window services or to receive an estimate.

Windows provide homes with protection from the elements, but as they age, their performance can decline. Older windows are not just an aesthetic concern; they can lead to higher energy bills and allow moisture and pests to enter the home and cause damage.

Replacing old windows is a common home improvement project that some homeowners choose to carry out on their own. However, it is a complicated process that is often best left in the hands of professionals. Here is a look at what is involved in replacing old windows.

1. Understand Replacement Window Types And Terms

Homeowners need to understand the difference between new construction windows and remodeled windows. The former typically has a nailing flange that can be attached to a rough opening, while the latter is made to fit into an existing finished opening.

Although remodel windows are generally easier to install than their new construction counterparts, it is essential to note that they are slightly smaller than new construction windows because they are made to fit within a finished opening of an existing window frame rather than a rough opening.

Here are some useful terms to know when working with remodeling windows:

• Stop Moulding – This refers to the area that holds the window into place within the frame.
• Frame Height – The frame height is a measurement taken from the part where the lower sash touches the sill to the location where the upper sash reaches the header.
• Frame Width – The frame width is measured all the way to the outside edge of the stop moulding.

2. Measure The Opening Of The Window

The first step in installing a replacement window is measuring the pocket opening carefully to ensure a good fit. Take a note of the precise width and height of the window as getting this step right can prevent the need to sand the frame or place filler strips later in the process.

Begin by measuring the height on the inside of the existing frame on the left and right sides as well as the middle of the window. Then, measure the width at the top, middle and bottom.

When it comes to choosing the new window, go with the smallest measurements for the height and width if an exact match is not available. Keep in mind that new windows should be roughly 3/4 of an inch smaller than the window opening to avoid having to reframe.

3. Get Everything Ready

Before beginning the project, ensure everything is on hand to complete it. Inspect the new windows to verify that they are the correct sizes and that none are damaged. If windows will be installed on the upper levels of the home, it may be a good idea to rent scaffolding as it will be easier to maneuver than it would be on a ladder.

Be sure to use eye protection and cut-resistant gloves. If any of the windows being removed are damaged, painter’s tape can be applied over cracks to stop shards from falling out during the removal process.

4. Check The Space

Once the windows are out of the walls, check the remaining wood for any structural damage and replace or repair areas that are in poor condition. It may be necessary to install new exterior stop moulding.

Then, center the new window within the opening, using shims and woodblocks to support it. Ensure that it is level, making adjustments if needed.

5. Install The New Window

Now it is time to officially install the remodel window into the opening. First, apply a bead of caulk along the inside of the exterior and stop moulding. Then, place the window in the opening and push it firmly against the caulk. Shims should be placed where the pre-drilled holes are situated to secure the window.

Then, measure the window’s diagonals to ensure it is square. If the measurements are not the same, shims can be used to adjust the fit.

Drive screws through the shims and frame, then trim the shims with help from a razor knife. Check again that the sashes are even and that the window has been placed in a level position, then fill the gaps between the framing members and the window jambs using fiberglass insulation. Then, use finishing nails to install the interior stop moulding.

6. Paint And Finish The Window

After the window has been installed, it is important to wait for the caulk to dry completely before painting. Choose paint that matches the trim of the rest of the house for a uniform appearance.

Contact The Northern Virginia Window Replacement Professionals

Avoid the risks and hassles of DIY window replacement by entrusting the job to professionals. Contact the experienced window replacement and installation contractors at Adelphia Exteriors to discuss your project and request an estimate today.

Upgrading a home’s windows is a great way to improve its appearance and value while reducing energy bills. However, improperly installed windows can have the opposite effect, allowing water and air to get into the home and causing structural damage.

When homeowners are looking to keep the overall costs of a window upgrade project low, it is important to keep in mind that choosing inexperienced installers may be more expensive in the long run. Here is a look at some of the most common window installation issues homes can encounter as a result of poor installation.

Difficulty Opening And Closing The Windows

Windows that have not been installed properly may develop problems opening and closing. This may not be obvious in the beginning, particularly if the windows were installed during the colder season when they are not opened as often. However, once the summer heat sets in, homeowners may notice that their windows do not open and close smoothly or get stuck from time to time. This is often the result of damage to the mechanical parts in the window.

Gaps Between The Sill And The Frame

One of the most obvious signs that a window has been installed poorly is the presence of a gap between the window sill and the window frame. This can occur when the installer does not measure the materials correctly, causing them to line up poorly once they are in place.

Sometimes the gap may not be obvious when looking at the window, but these gaps are usually quite easy to feel. For example, the house may feel breezy in the area of the window, and you may notice your energy bills increasing as well.

Although some homeowners may dismiss this as a minor problem, it is important to note that in addition to letting air through, gaps also allow water to enter the home. This can damage the walls surrounding the window and may lead to the development of dangerous mold.

Caulking Issues

One of the problems that can arise when a window installer rushes the job is incomplete or messy caulking. This sealant is placed around the windows to seal gaps and prevent the elements and pests from entering the home.

If caulking is not applied properly, it will not be effective in carrying out these important functions. Failing to properly clean the area before installing caulking can also lead to difficulties.

Drafts And Water Damage

Water and air entering the home through the windows when they are closed is another common sign that the windows were not installed correctly.

Leaks are fairly easy to spot in the form of wet stains on the floor or mold along the base of the walls. Even if the water is not visible, homeowners will eventually be able to smell or feel it.

When it comes to air, drafts are generally more noticeable in the winter when cooler air is coming through the window. Fluctuations in temperature can contribute to cracking and warping at the frame, and drafty windows make the home uncomfortable and cause utility bills to rise.

Fog Between The Glass Panes

It is not unusual to note some condensation on windows from time to time, even when they are new and correctly installed. However, if the windows look wet when it is not raining and there is condensation inside of the window panes, homeowners should reach out to their installer for advice.

Increases In Energy Consumption

One sign of improperly installed windows that can become more apparent with time is an increase in energy consumption. Windows that have not been placed correctly can allow heat to escape from the home, and this will be noticeable in the form of rising utility bills.

Glass Stains And Discoloration

Another long-term sign of a poor window installation is discolored glass. This typically occurs because the window is allowing water to get inside, which can lead to a yellowish tint over time. This type of staining is difficult to remove, and it is usually better to have a new window properly installed in its place.

Uneven Windows

Although older homes may experience shifting of their windows over time, recently installed windows should fit perfectly in their place inside the structure of the frame and remain there. A good window installation crew will measure carefully to ensure a level window installation, while proper sealing can prevent damage to the home’s insulation.

Reach Out To The Northern Virginia Window Replacement Professionals

Upgrading your windows is a major decision that can have a significant effect on your home’s comfort level and appearance. At Adelphia Exteriors, we pride ourselves on educating our clients and helping them make the best decisions for their home, lifestyle and budget. To learn more about our energy-efficient windows and professional installation and replacement services or to request an estimate, contact us today.

After new windows have been selected and a date has been set for window replacement, eager homeowners may wonder what they can do to ensure the project runs as smoothly as possible.

Here is a look at the steps homeowners can take to prepare their home for a successful window replacement project.

Remove Fragile Items From The Work Area

Before the window replacement contractors arrive, it is a good idea to clear the work area of anything that is delicate, fragile or irreplaceable. Although good contractors will do their best to avoid causing damage to objects in the home, removing these items can make their work easier.

In addition to removing anything that is hanging on the walls, it is important to put away any items that are placed on floating shelves. Homeowners should also remove their window treatments before the work gets underway.

Cover The Furniture

Dust is often created during window replacement projects, so homeowners are advised to cover their furniture using blankets or sheets and move it at least four feet away from the window openings that the contractors will be working on. Although some crews may bring their own coverings to protect furniture, an extra layer of protection never hurts.

Deactivate Alarm Systems

If any window alarm systems are connected to the fixture, it is important to deactivate them before the work gets underway to avoid false alarms or damage to the system itself.

It may be necessary to have a professional from the home security company disconnect the alarms and then reconnect them once the new windows have been installed.

Trim Landscaping

Crews will need at least two feet of clearance around the windows in order to work comfortably, so be sure to trim any bushes, trees or shrubs that could get in their way. If the windows being installed are of the bay or bow variety, the contractors will need even more room to work. Be sure to ask them about their space needs for these types of projects.

Set Up A Workspace For Installers

The window replacement contractors will need a workspace to set up their equipment. Choose a spot where they will have access to an electrical outlet. If there is a possibility that it could rain while they are carrying out the work, it may be a good idea to clear some space for the crew in the garage.

Keep Children And Pets Out Of The Way

For the safety of the window replacement crew as well as the family, homeowners should restrict access to the work area throughout the installation. Children and pets should be kept out of the work area at all times.

Should someone in the family need to access something where work is in progress, ask the crew to stop working temporarily so that the item can be retrieved safely. Keep in mind that the work will be finished sooner if interruptions are kept to a minimum.

Understand The Window Replacement Process

It is also useful to know what to expect when the crew arrives to begin the work. On the first day, homeowners should be prepared to show them where they should park and set up their equipment. As the crew sets up, the crew lead may walk through the entire project with the homeowner and check that all of the window openings and units align with the work order.

If something does not match up with the plan, the installer will work to resolve the problem. They may ask if you wish to save the old windows, trim or window treatments. This is also a good time to mention which entrance you prefer crew members use when entering and exiting the home.

It is not necessary to be present during the entire project, but if you do need to leave the home, be sure to let the crew lead know about your plans and exchange phone numbers in case an unexpected incident arises during the installation process.

You will also be asked to set up a time for a final walkthrough based on the estimated completion of the project, although this may change if the project’s timeline is delayed for some reason.

During the walkthrough, the crew lead will demonstrate how to operate each window. Make sure you fully understand how to use the windows and are happy with the quality of the work before they leave. This is also a good moment to ask any final installation questions and point out areas of concern.

A good window installation crew will cover their work area in order to protect your space and clean up after themselves once they are finished. They should also haul away the old windows.

Discuss Your Project With The Experienced Window Replacement Contractors

If you are looking for professional window installation or replacement services in the Northern Virginia area, get in touch with the experienced window replacement and installation contractors at Adelphia Exteriors.

Installing windows in a house, whether it’s new construction or a remodel, can be daunting from a financial standpoint. However, there are so many options available that most homeowners should be able to find something that suits their budget and their tastes.

According to Home Advisor, individual prices for home windows range from $85 to $2,500, while installation can add another $150 to $800 to the total cost. There are many factors influencing the overall price of installing new windows. Outlined below are some of the major factors in determining the cost of window installation.

The Type of Window

One of the biggest factors in window installation cost is the type of window involved:

• Single-hung – In a single-hung window, the top sash is fixed in place while the bottom sash moves up and down. The average cost of installing this type of window is $100 to $400.
• Double-hung – A double-hung window design allows the top and bottom sashes to move up and down, and some can also swing inward to facilitate cleaning. The average installation cost is $150 to $650.
• Bay – A bay window is made up of three windows, with one larger picture unit positioned between two smaller casement or sash-style windows. These cost anywhere from $600 to $2500 installed.
• Sliding – A sliding window can work like a single or double-hung window but can only move horizontally instead of vertically. These cost from $150 to $800.
• Fixed or picture style – Fixed windows, also known as picture windows, have one pane of glass and cannot be opened. The price range of these windows is $65 to $700 installed.
• Casement – A casement window can be opened completely from the left or right using a hand crank, making it especially suitable for places where maximum ventilation is desired. The price range for casement windows is $150 to $1,000.

The Material of the Window’s Frame

In addition to the style, the material of the window has a big influence on the overall price.

• Vinyl – Prized for their low-maintenance nature, durable vinyl windows cost between $250 and $600. They may not be as strong or attractive as wood, but they often come with a strong warranty and can stand up to changes in humidity.
• Aluminum or metal – Suitable for many types of designs and easy to maintain, aluminum windows can range in price between $400 and $1,200. They boast good thermal efficiency and are eco-friendly.
• Wood – Wood frames cost an average of $1,300. They provide a classic look to homes, making them especially suitable for historical neighborhoods. However, if they are not cared for properly, they may become vulnerable to the elements.
• Fiberglass – Weather-resistant and durable, fiberglass windows cost around $750 each on average, including installation.

The Type of Glass

The type of glass used in the window can also influence its price. Some homeowners opt to pay more for double-pane windows because they can provide greater energy savings. Their higher price is offset by lower utility bills and greater comfort levels in the home. Triple-pane windows, meanwhile, cost significantly more but can lead to even greater reductions in heat loss.

Some specialty types of windows can also be very expensive. For example, impact-resistant windows suitable for hurricane-prone areas can cost between $250 and $750 for single-hung varieties.

The Size of the Window

There are many different common sizes available for windows, but the size of the window impacts the price of materials more than installation. An exception are very large and pre-hung styles, such as bay or picture windows. Although major window manufacturers can customize their windows to any dimension, odd sizes tend to cost more than more standard sizes.

The Amount of Labor Involved

Labor costs for window installation are typically $30 to $50 per hour. Although most window contractors provide their bids at a flat rate that includes labor, they typically estimate 1.5 hours for each project. However, more complex work could take as long as six hours to complete.

New Construction Versus Replacement

Another consideration is the status of the home where the windows are being installed. New construction window projects tend to cost less than window replacements, largely because in new construction and remodels, the home’s stud framing is exposed. This makes it easy to attach the windows directly to the studs, which cuts down on labor costs considerably. The average cost of new construction windows is $85 to $1,400.

Replacement windows on existing homes, meanwhile, can cost between $300 and $1,200 depending on the installation requirements, the material and their size. Replacing specialty types of windows like large picture styles may cost $2,500 or more.

Contact The Window Replacement And Installation Contractors

The professional window replacement and installation team at Adelphia Exteriors is known for precise workmanship and excellent customer service. Reach out today by phone, or request a free window installation estimate online.

Windows are one of the most important features of a home, allowing natural light indoors while adding beauty and visual interest. When homeowners are shopping for window replacements or installing windows in new construction, they can choose from a broad variety of options. Today’s windows are more durable and energy-efficient than ever before, and there are attractive options that can suit all budgets. Outlined below are the seven best windows for Virginia homeowners.

1. Vinyl Windows

Vinyl is one of the most popular choices of windows for Virginia homes thanks to their high energy efficiency rating. This makes them suitable for the range of temperatures seen in Virginia and provides homes with good thermal protection throughout the year.

They are available at a variety of price points, but most vinyl windows fall at the lower end of the spectrum compared to other window materials. They also come in an impressive range of stylistic options and require very little in the way of maintenance. However, those living in historical areas of Virginia should check to ensure that vinyl window replacements are permitted.

2. Wood Windows

For homeowners who wish to maintain their home’s historical or architectural integrity, wood is a preferred window material. A high-quality wood window can last for many decades, and it is one of the least thermally conductive materials on the market.

Although wood windows tend to be on the more expensive side, they can dramatically improve a home’s overall look and are available in a broad range of colors. However, it is important to keep in mind that wood windows are subject to termites and rot if they are not maintained properly, which means they require considerably more upkeep than other types of windows.

3. Composite Windows

For homeowners who seek the aesthetic appeal of wood windows without committing to the maintenance involved in their upkeep or their high price tag, composite is an excellent choice. Composite is not the cheapest material on the market, but it is more affordable than wood and provides a similar look.

Many composite windows are made using PVC resin, which provides them with great energy efficiency. However, the durability of these windows does vary depending on the materials that are used, so it is important for homeowners to research the composites used in the specific windows they are considering before they make their choice.

4. Fiberglass Windows

Another good window option that provides the appearance of wood without its high price tag and maintenance demands is fiberglass. Fiberglass windows offer good thermal performance and can be painted in a variety of colors after being installed to suit the aesthetics of the home.

5. Aluminum Windows

Aluminum windows give ultra-modern homes an industrial and streamlined look that cannot be achieved by other materials. Simple yet elegant, they are strong enough to hold up to all types of weather. They are often cheaper than other types of window frames, and they are incredibly easy to maintain. They are also resistant to warping and rotting and can last for as long as 30 years. Environmentally conscious homeowners often opt for aluminum because it is sustainable, recyclable and non-toxic.

6. Bay And Bow Windows

Bay and bow windows are composed of three or more double or single-hung, picture or casement windows to add dimension and a stunning focal point to the home. They also provide extra light and depth, making them ideal for family rooms, kitchens, or anywhere else in the home that needs some extra visual interest.

They are highly durable against wind and other inclement weather, and modern bay windows have an energy-efficient design that keeps the home comfortable and can lead to a reduction in energy expenses.

7. Energy Star Windows

Regardless of the material, homeowners in Virginia should look for windows that are Energy Star qualified. This is a certification that a glass company can achieve following successful testing from the National Fenestration Rating Council, or NRFC.

The NRFC tests windows for five factors related to efficiency: condensation resistance, air leakage, solar heat gain coefficient, U factor and visible transmittance. There is a minimal rating that applies to each of these factors to gain Energy Star certification. Check with the contractor to ensure that all of the windows that will be used in the window replacement are Energy Star certified as this means they are far more likely to reduce energy bills and help the home stay warm in winter and cool in summer.

Get In Touch With The Experienced Window Replacement Contractors

Although most types of windows will work well in Virginia’s relatively mild climate, it is best to get advice from local experts about which options will meet your goals. Get in touch with the Northern Virginia window replacement and installation contractors at family-run Adelphia Exteriors to discuss your residential window project or request a free estimate today.