Window Condensation

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

Window condensation is unsightly for sure and can be even more problematic to your home than you realize.  If neglected, the moisture from the condensation can cause rotting to wood window frames and molding and even weaken the plaster of your home.  It could cause issues with mold or mildew as well.

Occasionally condensation inside your windows can occur in bathroom and kitchens due to the heat that comes from showering and cooking.  The room is hotter than usually, the air that meets the windows is warmer and can cause fogging, kinda like breathing on the windows of a cold car.  You can keep this to a minimum by using a fan over the stove while cooking or a bathroom fan while you shower.  The fan will cool the air, allow for circulation, and keep moisture to a minimum.

If you are dealing with more window condensation, there is a good chance that some of it is caused by poor seals on your windows.  If your windows are poorly sealed, more cold air is allowed to get thru, thus mixing with the warm air on the glass and causing the condensation.  You can fix this by caulking your window seals to seal any cracks.  If you cannot see obvious cracks, you might have a seal issue, test it by holding a lit candle to the window.  If the flame pulls in a particular direction, that means your window’s seal is faulty.

Are your windows old?   Sometimes the problem is simple.  The windows are too old and no long as functional as they used to be.  Old windows are often more prone to air leakage and drafts and yes, window condensation.  If you are dealing with old windows, your best bet is to replace them with more airtight windows that keep out window condensation.

Need help finding new windows for your home?  St Clair of the Ozarks offers energy efficient windows in a number of shades, sizes and styles. 

DIY Door replacement is a bad idea

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

Have you ever ‘attempted’ do to a DIY project but it did not go quiet how you planned?

Many homeowners can be tempted by the idea of doing it themselves.  After all, door replacement does not look ‘that’ complicated and DYI means not having to pay for labor, right?   Well, there may be more to door replacement than you realize.

  • Potential long-term costs:  It is true that you can avoid the cost of labor when you choose the DIY option, but that’s not to say you won’t rack up other costs that you may have been able to avoid by hiring a professional.  Your door or door frame may become damaged during installation, and you may have to purchase a new one or pay for repairs anyway.  If the door doesn’t fit perfectly, you will have to pay to get the right fit.  If it is installed incorrectly, you may have to pay for the repairs in years to come.  Professional door replacement contractors are not only precise in what they do, but they are insured  – Just in case an accident were to happen while they are on the job – they are covered, you are not.
  • Proper Insulation & Security:  Your front door provides more than just open and close.  When the door is properly installed, it is a major component of your homes insulation – improperly installed doors could be drafty leading to heat loss that is not only uncomfortable but also costly.  Another reason your door needs to be installed sturdily? Security of course!  The security of your family and belongings depend on a dependable door!  The right door, installed securely, is more likely to hold up against force of intruders trying to kick it in
  • Less Stress:  Let’s admit it, DIY projects can be pretty stressful.  It takes time from your busy schedule, and unless you’re a pro, it can be a challenging and frustrating job.  This is why many homeowners enjoy the benefit of not bothering with it at all.  When you hire a professional, like St Clair of the Ozarks, we will do all the work of removing your old door, installing a new one, testing the new one and cleaning up the work area before we leave.  And because we are the experts, you can have the confidence that the job is done right!

Are you interested in hiring a professional to install your new door?  Call St. Clair of the Ozarks!

3 Signs your wood siding needs to be replaced

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

Chances are if you have an older home, there is likely natural wood siding on your home.  Although natural wood siding has a classic look and feel, it simply does not hold up as well as other types of siding, such as vinyl.  You may find yourself wondering if it is time to replace your wood siding.  Here are a few signs that it is time:

1 – Is your siding over 20 years old

No siding is meant to last forever.  Wood siding has a lifespan is shortened due to expose to elements, (especially water) and pests.  If your siding is more than 20 years old, it is likely outlived its usefulness and could be causing more harm than good.  It is worth noting that vinyl siding can last as long as 50 years, so once it is replaced, you may not have to worry about it again as long as you live in the home.

2 – Are you constantly doing maintenance?

Wood siding requires A LOT of maintenance, but you already knew that! Wood siding naturally absorbs water, it needs frequent stains and finishes in order to keep it from warping or rotting.  Long exposure to direct sunlight can cause paint to fade.  Keeping pests out can also be a hassle.  If your siding is costing more in maintenance & repairs than it is worth, it is time to replace.

3 – Is your siding rotting or warping?

As mentioned, wood naturally absorbs water, this can ben bad news when it comes to your wood siding.  This can lead to leaks, rot, or warping, not only leading to damages of the siding, but potentially endangers your walls and insulation as well.  If your siding is rotting and warping, do not wait!!  It is time to replace.

When you’re ready to replace your siding, give St Clair a call!

Spring is here, so why worry about the Gutters?

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

With April showers and May flowers around the corner, the last thing a homeowner wants to deal with is the gutters. Yet it is important to do a spring cleaning on them but there is also another option so that a homeowner will have to worry-no more about them.

First off, when doing a spring cleaning on the gutters, you will want to have a steady and extendable ladder and if you can, have a spotter to hold the base while you are up on it. Secondly, always wear gloves when cleaning out the gutters. You may never know what could be inside them besides debris. Spiders, bugs, sharp objects could be awaiting in there. Also have a small plastic-scoop to remove gunk. Save time and spare your lawn by having a tarp beneath you to through the gunk out onto. After clearing the gunk from the gutters, make sure to hose down them, and check if there is a steady-consistent current of water flow when doing this. Also, just remember to wear a long shirt, you never know what you could touch or run into when doing this chore.

If you are curious to the solution of avoiding this hassling chore all together, that is where Gutter Monster comes along! Here at St. Clair of the Ozarks we are a proud carrier of the product Gutter Monster. Wonder how it works?

Well the Gutter Monster has a unique patent-pending corner system with diverters to disperse water evenly along the roofline. The Kynar-500 finish is guaranteed for 30 years to prevent blistering, peeling and fading from intense summer sun. With Spring showers, can handle up to 10 plus inches of rain per hour. The system installed filtrates only water to get into the actual base of the gutter, leaving out debris, leaves, twigs, etc. It is a mess, cleaning and worry-free system. Since it has a flat roof barrier above the gutter, it won’t allow twigs and small things to stick in groves as if it were a typical mesh system. Mesh gutter protection systems require cleaning still because debris can get caught into the holes, but Gutter Monster’s unique design won’t allow that to happen! The problem with gutters without protectors, is debris being caught and not allowing water to flow through. In this case the water fills to the sides, and overflows, causing rotting, damaging and molding to windows, doors, foundation and other exterior components of the home. inside the home, the water can cause cracks and leakages to wet floors. If the water isn’t flowing, it could cause the gutter to actually bend and break, leaving the home owner to have to have them replaced or fixed which can cost up to thousands of dollars. By investing into the Gutter Monster System, a homeowner can have peace of mind knowing that they don’t have to worry about if something is clogging their gutters.

Making sure the gutters are flowing properly and being cleaned is a non-stop thought, especially in the Spring. Avoiding this with Gutter Monster is an option that we proudly provide at St. Clair. So when the water comes pouring down this spring, make sure you have a safe and effective plan of action!

Why hire a Pro to Install your Siding

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

You may have noticed that your current siding is getting older- wearing out, or even has holes in it. It’s probably time to have it replaced. Should you attempt to do it yourself? Or hire a professional?  Hire a professional — and we’ll tell you why!!

First off, a professional knows what they are doing… You don’t learn the expertise or the skill of replacing siding from YouTube or Pinterest, it’s acquired with years and years of practice. Professionals know the ins and outs of siding, the different types available, the advantages and disadvantages of each and how to properly install the product. Please don’t let your home be a Pinterest Fail!

Siding is a no brainer for a professional, and could be a huge hassle and headache for the average DIYer. Someone that works on home exteriors daily can do a siding job quickly and easily. Someone that is not in the filed won’t have an easy time and will cause unnecessary stress. Plus, work done by a professional has warranties and guarantees (We have a lifetime warranty on all of our work!). When you do it yourself, there’s no one to turn to when it doesn’t work properly.

Lastly, hiring a professional is going to save you time and money. A professional will work with you to ensure the project is within your budget. They will know all of the materials needed and the cost of each and every aspect, so you know exactly what you are paying for. When you’re doing it yourself, the bill could get bigger and bigger, especially if you have to redo anything.

If you’re looking to install new siding, call a professional- call St Clair of the Ozarks! We can handle all of your home exterior needs: siding, windows, gutters, and more! Located in Springfield Missouri, we travel all over Southern Missouri to meet your home exterior needs. Call us today! 

Windows: Repair or Replace?

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

You’ve noticed a draft, or a window is damaged— Can you fix it? Should you just replace your window completely? While window repair may seem like a more cost-effective option, there are actually many reasons why window replacement is often the better choice. You might be surprised to realize just how many benefits come with replacing your windows!

Health

Was your home built before 1978? They may have toxic lead-based paint. Lead has significant health risks, especially for children who like to put paint chips in their mouths… It also causes significant health risks for pregnant women, and the elderly. If you have windows from the 70’s or before, the obvious choice is to replace.

Aesthetics

Always wanted a bay window? Or stained glass? Replacing your windows will allows you to choose the windows of your dreams! No need to repair a window that you never liked the look of anyway- New windows will raise your curb appeal, the value of your home, and your overall enjoyment!

Energy efficiency

St Clair only uses the highest energy efficient windows on the market! We’ve had customers that saw a 40% decrease in their utility bills just by replacing draft windows. The initial investment may be higher with replacing your windows, but you’ll have significant amount of savings in the long run to make your investment worth it.

 

If you’re ready to replace your windows with beautiful and energy efficient new windows, get in touch with St Clair of the Ozarks today! Give us a call today for a FREE ESTIMATE!

Energy Efficiency FAQ

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are vinyl windows a better choice than windows made from wood or aluminum?

baydiamondgridYour choice of framing material goes a long way toward determining the longevity and energy-efficiency of the total window system. Wood windows possess excellent thermal qualities but are prone to weather deterioration and require maintenance at regular intervals. Aluminum windows are very durable, yet offer little insulating value because they conduct energy rapidly.

Vinyl windows are your best choice because they offer thermal characteristics similar to wood, are extremely durable and provide a finish that is virtually maintenance-free. Also, keep in mind that the best performing vinyl window systems have multi-chambered frames with welded corners.

2. What is the U-factor?

The U-factor, or U-value, is the measure of a window’s thermal efficiency, based on its resistance to the flow of energy. The lower the U-factor, the more thermally efficient the window. Most new window technology has been aimed at lowering U-factors through the use of three important innovations: warm-edge seals, low emissivity glass coatings and argon/krypton gases.

3. What is a warm-edge seal and why is it important?

Most modern residential window systems are made with dual-pane glass because the air space between the two panes greatly increases the window’s insulation qualities. An edge spacer is used to separate the two panes. Many window manufacturers use a metal edge spacer, but since metal conducts energy, the contact between the glass and spacer significantly lowers the window’s thermal performance around the edge of the glass.

St Clair windows use warm-edge technology instead of  a metal spacer. No glass-to-metal contact occurs, thus reducing energy transfer at the edge of the glass and lowering the U-factor. This keeps the window edge warmer during cold weather and also reduces the flow of heat into the home during hot weather. St Clair’s warm-edge sealing system also reduces condensation on the window sash.

4. What is low emissivity glass?

bowretouchLow emissivity glass, commonly referred to as Low-E, is glass that has been coated with a micro-thin metallic film to improve thermal performance. The coating reduces the transfer of heat rays through the glass while still allowing light to pass through. In essence, the coating reflects heat back toward its source. Thus, heat from the furnace stays inside the home during cold weather, and heat from the sun stays outside in hot weather, resulting in greater comfort and lower energy costs. Low-E coatings also reduce harmful ultraviolet rays that cause drapes and upholstery to fade.

5. What is argon and krypton gas and why is it used with Low-E glass?

Argon is a safe, odorless, colorless, non-toxic, non-flammable inert gas that is commonly used in place of air between the glass panes of an insulated Low-E glass unit. Argon’s heat conductivity is lower than that of air, and thus it is a better insulator and contributes to a lower U-factor. Argon is not an effective solar performer by itself; that is why it is only used in conjunction with Low-E insulated glass.

Krypton gas is a rare atmospheric gas which is odorless, colorless, tasteless, nontoxic, monatomic and chemically inert.  it is also a better insulator than even argon gas. Target Windows & Doors has done extensive testing to combine the two gases to offer our customers the optimum combination with the best value.

6. What is Condensation?

Condensation is visible evidence of excessive moisture in the air. It may appear as water, frost or ice on the interior surface of windows and doors. The warmer the air, the more water the air can hold, which means the air in the center of a room will hold more water than the air adjacent to the window or door walls, since this area is always cooler.

When the warm,  moisture laden air moves toward the cooler window or door wall, it becomes cooler and cannot hold the moisture it held when it was warm. The moisture is then dropped and appears as water on the glass and frames of windows and doors. This occurs more frequently during the winter months because of the extreme difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures. If you wish to avoid condensation during the winter months, when the average outdoor temperature drops below 35° F (2° C), it would be wise to maintain a 25% to 30% relative indoor humidity.

Ventilation is a very effective way to remove excessive moisture from the air, which is why poorly insulated homes with older, air-leaking windows and doors do not often reveal condensation problems. This is because the air and moisture filters out through the gaps in older windows, doors, vents and other openings. Newer homes, which are constructed to meet current insulation standards and energy conservation requirements, or older homes which have been newly insulated through the addition of attic and basement insulation and the installation of insulated window and doors, are now so airtight that they present a new problem.

All homes will, on occasion, have temporary condensation which can result from the following three occurrences:

  1. New Construction or Remodeling: Building materials contain a great deal of moisture. As soon as the heat is turned on, this moisture will flow out into the air and settle on windows, etc.  This will usually disappear following the first heating season.
  2. Humid Summers: During humid summers, houses absorb moisture.  This will be apparent during the first few weeks of the subsequent heating season.  Then the house should dry out.
  3. Temperature change: Sharp, quick and sudden drops in temperature, especially during the heating season, will create immediate formation of moisture but should dissipate in a short period of time.

It is not uncommon for homes which have had new insulated windows and doors installed to suddenly exhibit condensation problems. This is because the new insulated windows and doors don’t leak air like the older ones. The gaps in the original windows and doors were actually allowing air and moisture to escape the home, which reduced the humidity to the point where it wasn’t visible on the interior surfaces. The moisture problem was always present, but the older, air-leaking windows and doors prevented it from being noticed.

If you have an existing moisture or condensation problem, do not count on correcting it merely by installing new windows or doors. You must remember windows and doors do not cause condensation. Therefore, they cannot cure condensation.

Call St Clair of the Ozarks today if you need to replace your windows!

Replacement Windows for Spring

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

Winters in Missouri are temperamental. With snow, ice, and freezing temperatures one day and then warm sunny days the next- it can take a toll on your home. It is easy for your window seal to break with all of the settling your house is going through with the temperature fluctuation.

Did you feel any cold drafts this winter? Leaky windows are a sign that you need new windows. When you have windows that are allowing outside air into your home, you are opening your home up to bugs, moisture, and those dreaded springtime allergens. If we know anything about spring, we know it’ll bring a surplus of rain, bugs and allergies.

You also probably noticed those high utility bills this winter. Replacing your windows saves you around 30% on your utility bill. That’s right, we’ve seen savings up to 40%! Those costs will be high again when summer rolls around, so you might as well replace your windows now and they’ll help pay for themselves with the savings.

 

Spring can also be very noisy- kids are outside, all the animals are coming out of hibernation, and everyone is ready to travel. New windows can drastically cut down on outdoor noise.

Lastly, new windows will give you protection from UV rays. Certain types of windows can reduces UV rays by up to 95 percent. That means that furniture, drapes, and carpet aren’t at danger of fading from the sunlight that pours through the windows every day.

There you go- spring is the perfect time to replace your windows. Call St Clair of the Ozarks for your free consultation. We service Springfield Missouri and all of Southern Missouri!

 

 

6 Reasons to add a Patio Cover to your home

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on

You’re drinking your morning coffee early in the morning, and you’d love to be outside soaking in some Vitamin D, but the weather isn’t quite right…. Have you ever considered a patio cover? Here are 6 reasons to take the plunge:

photo_screenrooms8

  1. Elegance
    Aesthetics are important to any home, especially if the owners are hoping to re-sell the property at some point. Patio covers add tremendous value to your home with less of an investment than an addition. Some choose to blend the cover into the house’s existing design and materials, while others opt to handsomely offset the outside location with different raw materials creating a gazebo effect.
  2. Comfort
    In those hot months, a top can make your patio up to 10 degrees cooler, which will be key to everyone’s comfort if you are planning on using the location as a summer barbecue and recreation area. Also, an overhead fan can be added to the ceiling to provide refreshing top-down air currents to cool if even further.
  3. Entertainment
    Once you’ve added your patio cover, you’re going to want to always be outside! Add a TV, BBQ, or an MP3 player to set the mood for those summer nights. Kids love patio covers and it’s a great place to “camp out”
  4. Value
    As noted above, if you ever plan on selling your property, you can greatly increase the value — and stability — of your home by adding a beautiful patio cover to the location. Especially when accompanied by beautiful landscaping, a patio cover can create the kind of protected oasis that prospective buyers find highly appealing.
  5. Space
    By simply adding a roof to your patio, you have just increased the space of your home. If you decide to, you can even fortify and insulate the location so it can be a year-round play area (if you have kids) or work area (if you need a home office). Just because a covered patio starts out as an outdoor area, its purpose and value to the property can change.
  6. Nature
    Finally, one of the most pleasurable and relaxing benefits of having a patio cover is the way it puts you, your family, and your guests in touch with nature. If you live on the edge of a wooded area, or are located near a stream or creek, night times spent on your deck amid the soothing choruses of insects and the belching cacophony of frogs can help you escape into the comforting arena of nature.

If you’re ready to add a patio cover give St Clair of the Ozarks a call!

Original post from http://www.centuryspouting.com/home-improvement/6-reasons-to-add-a-patio-cover-to-your-home/

Do you need new windows?

Posted by erin@gamblesphotography.com on
How do you know you need new windows? The most obvious is broken glass, but there are more warning signs than that. Here are 7 reasons that you’d need to replace your windows:
B97394576Z.120141121152213000GL07G97S.10
  1. The most obvious: Broken glass.  That crack is going to cost you money on your energy bills and it is going to let moisture into the walls of your home, which can lead to rot.

  2. Fogging between the panes. If you have two panes of glass, but there is moisture or residue in between the panes, you will have the same issues as someone with broken glass.

  3. Broken frames. Often, people who have issues with their frames breaking apart will paint over the cracks. Though this will make them less drafty, it can also make them a danger. Windows that don’t open properly can trap you and your family inside your home if a fire breaks out.

  4. You can feel a draft. Sometimes you won’t be able to simply look at a window and see that you have an issue. Sometimes the only way to know that windows aren’t sealed properly is by feeling for a draft. Windows that have warped over time can have tiny gaps. If you pay a lot to create heat in your home during the winter or coolness during the summer, the last thing you need is gaps.

  5. Your energy bills are going up. When energy bills go up we are motivated to change the way we heat or cool our homes, but replacement windows are often the better way to go.

  6. Your windows are old. Windows are not made to last forever. Window technology has changed tremendously in the last decade. If you have old windows, you will see benefits from changing out that old tech with some new tech.

  7. The noise is driving you nuts. Those older, single-pane windows will also do a poor job of keeping the noise out. Newer windows with double or triple panes of glass not only keep the heat out in the summer and the cold out in the winter; they also keep the noise out all year long.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, and you’d like to know what it would cost to have replacement windows installed in your home, drop us a line and we’ll have a specialist come to your home and give you a free, no obligation, estimate. Call St Clair today!
Source: http://www.windownation.com/blog/post/7-reasons-your-philly-home-might-need-replacement-windows