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What happens to the windows after they’re replaced?

Zoë Thomas February 21, 2019

As I was at an install one day getting some video footage I walked by these old windows. They’re actually original to the home which was built in 1904. I had the question of, “What happens to the old windows that are replaced?” as I’m sure most of you wonder as well.

First off, it’s pretty impressive that these windows are 115 years old and still look this good, they’re called true divided lite windows. This means it contains six separate panes of glass. If a wood window was built before 1960 it’s promising to say they typically stay in decent condition.

So what does EHI do with them??

The first things that are done with metal or vinyl windows are we discard the glass and recycle the rest. EHI throws a big Christmas party each year where bonuses are given out. From the money that is made from recycling, this goes to the bonuses for everyone.

Wood windows are a little different for us… There’s a man in Goodlettsville, TN who builds greenhouses and several of the old wood windows are donated to him. I mean just take a look at this! It’s pretty cool and innovative. Have you gotten creative with your old windows or know someone that has? If so, drop a pic in the Facebook comments and the picture chosen by EHI will get a $25 gift card to Scouts Pub!

Zoë Thomas December 6, 2018

Efficiency Home Improvements loves being a part of the community and helping where we can. This year we were able to work with a number of organizations that allow us to give back!

The Nashville Walk to End Alzheimer’s is an event that helps bring funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s care, research, and support. It is also one of the world’s largest fundraisers that highlights what needs to be done in the Alzheimer’s community,

for those affected themselves, living with loved ones affected, or who have lost someone to the disease. It’s estimated that 5.7 million Americans of all ages are living with Alzheimer’s disease this year. EHI sponsored the Leiper’s Fork Crawfish Boil and raised $5,000 for the cause this year, as well as being present at and participating in the Walk event.

We all love our furry animals! Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue is a foster based rescue group that give all dogs a second chance when area shelters can no longer keep them. Their goal is to reduce the number of euthanasias that occur in shelters by placing these dogs in foster homes and eventually in their forever homes. EHI raised $1,000 for Snooty Giggles this year.

The future of Franklin is important to EHI. Franklin Tomorrow is a community-visioning independent nonprofit that encourages the community to come together. They advocate in the residents of Franklin to share ideas and collaborate together. We participated in events for and were contributing sponsors to Franklin Tomorrow in 2018.

GraceWorks Ministries, Inc. is an organization that came about from concerned citizens and faith leaders who decided that Williamson County needed a central place to send people who need help with food, clothing, and financial assistance. EHI loves supporting those who give back to the community while also sharing God’s word. We were happy to participate in a GraceWorks event this year as a sponsor.

EHI was also able to be a Sponsor to Independence High School Sports and Hillsboro Middle School Sports. Go Eagles! Go Indians!

High Hopes Development Center was founded by five Middle Tennessee families who recognized their children’s needs were not being met in local preschools. Each of these families had a child with a special need or chronic disease and they found themselves driving to several locations weekly to receive all of the therapy services needed. These visionaries were determined to create a place where their children’s needs could be met, both academically and therapeutically, and where their children would be educated among their typically-developing peers. EHI enjoyed attending and arranging for an onsite hot air balloon for the families to enjoy at their fall festival, as well as contributing funds for presents for the holiday bazaar.

The year isn’t quite over yet, so we plan to spread a little more Christmas cheer with more giving. If there are any organizations that Efficiency Home Improvements should contribute to next year we would love to hear your suggestions!

Should I replace my Windows in the Winter?

Zoë Thomas November 16, 2018

Sometimes homeowners have the question of whether or not to replace their windows in the winter. No matter what season you replace your windows there are only two factors that are crucial to the success of your project – the quality of window you purchase and that the correct installation techniques are performed. Unfortunately, you can run into window companies that will sell you a very expensive window and then subcontract the installation out to a company that you’ve never met, which means you don’t know how well your installation will go. Efficiency Home Improvements does not and has never subcontracted any of our window installs, and that is something we pride ourselves in.

Will there be a temperature change in the home?

During the winter months, there are a few changes in how an install takes place. The installers have to be more conscious of the cold weather, we want your home to stay as comfortable as we can while an install is taking place. That’s why two installers will be at a window instead of one. Some might be afraid of a temperature change in the home while the install is going on, and there typically isn’t one. The in and out process is so quick homeowners rarely have an issue. There are cases where some styles of windows require the glass to be removed before the frames. This type of window may impact the overall temperature because the hole isn’t filled as fast. We also do simple practical things like closing the door to the room were working in when there are extreme temperatures. No matter what we limit the amount of cold/hot air exchange as much a home will allow.

Can you see signs of moisture better in the winter?

The winter months in Tennessee are usually drier than the summer, but moisture is more obvious. Inefficient windows tend to develop condensation on the inside of the home during the winter.

Will the install team be tracking in the outside into the home?

No, we have procedures put in place to ensure this does not happen. Whether winter or summer, we try to limit the amount of inside traffic. Normally, one person is assigned to the inside and will stay there until the interior requirements are complete for the day. We also use carpet tiles, drop cloths and moving blankets to protect the home. No matter how careful we are, the reality

is, we are creating holes in the side of the home. So no matter how big or small the job, we always vacuum and wipe down the work areas before leaving the home. Cleanup is a process we work on through the duration of the install and is the last thing we do.

If you have any questions about your window installation this winter give us a call!

Replace my windows all at once, or a few at a time?

Zoë Thomas October 19, 2018

There’s always this question

“Is it better to replace all of the windows in your home at once or replace individually over time?”

Many factors play into the answer. Some may be worried about the inconvenience of window installation, others may be on a tight budget, or they may not see the need in replacing every window. You might fit into all three of these categories.

When you purchase a new home, everything is on your radar. The need for new windows is obvious. They may be dirty, fogged, cracked, hard to open, inefficient, the list continues… Other people may be celebrating 20 years in a home and have watched the windows slowly deteriorate to the point of not functioning. Sometimes walking in the room is so hot or cold, they cannot tell if the window is actually opened or closed.

Have you paid attention to your windows?

Are they drafty?
Are they foggy or cloudy?
Are they sealed to the trim inside and the brick outside?
Are they hard to open and close?
Are they old?
Are they just plain ugly?

Whether you just moved in or you’ve lived in the same home for years, it’s always important to inspect your windows and understand the benefits of replacing them.

Construction grade windows often carry a limited three-year warranty and are intended to last less than 10 years.

After their lifespan is up you might notice your energy bill increase, you can’t open and close them like you use to, there might even be bugs or outside things that make their way in.

Many people compare the amount of time it might take to renovate a kitchen or bathroom to the amount of time it takes to replace windows, but that’s not the case. Yes, replacing your windows is a big project, but when hiring a professional and experienced installation team like EHI, your project should only take a day or two.

Are you on a tight budget and not sure how many windows to replace? Typically if one window is having problems than the rest of them follow suit pretty quickly. Say you have two windows in your home that need to be replaced, they’re in the front of your home for everyone to see, what do you do? It is typically cheaper for both the homeowner and the window installation company to replace all at once. The bottom line is, you’ll get a better deal.

It isn’t just a “how much am I paying for windows?” thing, though. Often times, the strain on your HVAC unit is costing you money. Not just on your heating and cooling bill, but also for the inevitable replacement of the HVAC unit because it is overworked. Replacing all the windows keeps the HVAC running at a minimum. The rooms in the house maintain their temperature for an extended period of time and the HVAC gets a break. This has a huge impact on the overall comfort of the home, too. Windows play a role in so many facets of homeownership.

There is also the factor of replacing only a few noticeably deteriorated windows and having the new windows significantly outshining the other now obviously old windows. Maybe replacing every window isn’t or can’t be for you. That’s why some people like to do a replacement in phases. The first phase is generally replacing the elevation of the home with the biggest problems. This is typically the south or west facing elevations of the home. EHI recommends starting where you spend the most time; living room, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

Either way, replacing a few or all will have an immediate impact on your energy cost, overall comfort, and will increase the style and curb appeal of your home!

Decorating your Windows for Halloween on a Budget!

Zoë Thomas October 8, 2018

Halloween is approaching quickly and if you’re looking to spook up your home on a budget decorating your windows is an excellent way to go!

This Halloween, Efficiency Home Improvements wants to give inexpensive fun ways to decorate and be the spookiest house on the street. This is a great family project that can be done for under $15 dollars!

What you’ll need: wax paper, double sided tape, paper, black poster paper, printer, scissors

Step 1: (printer, paper) Print and cut out the attached silhouette templates below on plain white paper. If you’re wanting larger silhouettes, you might need to print on multiple pieces of paper.

Step 2: (black poster paper, tape, marker, scissors) Tape stencil to black poster paper. Trace with marker and cut along the edges.

Step 3: (wax paper, tape) Measure the size of your windows and cut wax paper to fit each pane (optional). Tape it along the window frame.

Step 4: (double-sided tape) Use double-sided tape to attach the silhouette to the wax paper or directly to the glass on your windows.

Sitting Cat Silhouette Spooky House Silhouette

Scared Cat Silhouette Owl Silhouette

Happy Halloween from Efficiency Home Improvements!

Increasing the Natural Light in your Home

Zoë Thomas September 29, 2018

A home can be much more than the entry door or the furniture that is throughout. Windows are able to bring multiple design factors that other things just don’t like natural light that shines through the entire home and a unique architectural element.

The Benefits

There are many benefits to increasing the amount of natural light that comes in your home. It can increase comfort, productivity, boost moods, and provide mental and visual stimulation. It can be difficult in some cases to incorporate because of space or aesthetic reasons. Even environments can play a factor, maybe you’re in an area that exposes you to too much direct sunlight.

Sky Lights

A skylight is not a traditional window that looks up to the sky and typically placed on the roof of a building. These are usually fixed meaning they don’t open or close. By correctly placing a skylight in your home it can bring lots of natural light. Also, if space is an issue in your home where you’re unable to install a window, this is a great alternative.

Using a lighter Paint

Color can really affect the way the eye perceives areas that surround it. Darker hues absorb light making a room feel smaller than it is. By replacing the dark walls in your home with lighter colors, this can open up a space drastically. You will get the best natural light effect when painting the walls white and even painting the ceiling white. Tip: use a matte paint because of its reflective properties.

The Placement of Mirrors

Do you have a tiny room in your house that feels claustrophobic or you feel it needs more space? By placing a mirror adjacent to a window, this will allow the sunlight to bounce around the room. If you only have one window in a room a mirror can make it appear that you have multiple natural light sources.

Glass Doors

Decluttering your space and replacing your solid doors are a way of bringing more light into your home. Doors can block light, when switching a solid door with glass doors, french doors, or creating an opening with no door, light can transcend through without any extra help.

3 Reasons Why Fall is the Season to Replace Your Windows!

Zoë Thomas September 20, 2018

Window replacement is always popular in the spring and summer, but there are benefits to replacing in the fall as well. Here are three reasons from Efficiency Home Improvement’s why you should replace your windows this fall!

Optimal Scheduling of Installation Teams

Typically when homeowners replace their windows in spring and summer, you might have to wait weeks or even months. This is the busiest time for window manufacturers and also installation teams. When scheduling to replace in the fall, you’re able to get your windows replaced without the wait.

Replace Before Winter

Start maximizing your energy savings before the cold winter months arrive. By replacing windows and doors, it boosts the appearance of your home, while also saving you money on your energy bill. Energy Star says that you can lower your energy cost anywhere from 8 to 20 percent of when replacing with Energy Star qualified window.

Competitive Deals

Window companies start offering great deals before the slow down of the winter months. Fall is the perfect time to get the best value out of your window replacement project. Beware of the deals that appear to be too good to be true. Just because a company offers you the cheapest quote doesn’t mean that will be good in the long run. EHI is offering rebuttable products, with in-house installation, while providing great prices this fall!

Who is Efficiency Home Improvements?

Zoë Thomas September 15, 2018

Efficiency Home Improvements was first founded as a window installation company in 2006 by Lou Beltran. Before Lou got into the window business, he met many people along the way that now make up EHI. A sales team was established in 2016 that offers a wide variety of different window brands for customers to choose from. What makes EHI great is that we install the windows with our in-house installation team!

What brands do we carry

EHI carries a wide variety of window brands for you to choose from. The brand that is a customer favorite is Pella. Why this brand? Pella is our higher end window that offers a sleekness to your home. The Pella 250 Series is a favorite by many. The 250 is available in double and triple-pane glass that provides excellent energy efficiency. It comes in many different design choices that aren’t your ordinary vinyl window. Pella also offers different series in wood and fiberglass. The other window brands we provide are Alside, Anderson, Marvin, and Jeld-Wen. If you’re not looking for windows but searching for the perfect door, EHI has expanded to also selling doors. Our favorite brand is Provia!

The future for EHI

We want to replace every window in Middle Tennessee while spreading God’s love along the way. There are big dreams at EHI, one day we hope to franchise into other states and to start a training program! Ultimately, all that sounds nice and would be awesome, but it would be a loss if the company ever became more than helping people. We want to stay true to our core values; helping people, doing what we said we were going to do, when we said we were going to do it, for the price we promised, and with the quality that meets our expectations.

What sets us apart

The people and dedication to integrity are the most noticeable. Our team’s care, it’s not just a job for us. The installation teams and sales team have a chemistry like that of a championship sports team. Another significant difference is product. We choose to use the best we can find, regardless of cost. We don’t choose the $2 tube of caulk when we know the $6 caulk is better. The reality is that’s about a $25 difference per house and years of product performance. We don’t need the $25 that much, we’d rather our customers have an excellent experience and their windows sparkle for years to come. We apply that same principle to the tools we use, the products we buy, the stores we shop, everything. Quality matters to us!

Replacement Windows – Are they worth it?

Zoë Thomas September 8, 2018

As a homeowner, there are always multiple projects around the house that need to be done. The question is which one to start with. When not knowing the answer to this question assess the project that’s going to be worth your time and money. Many people believe the major home renovations such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom will get you the most significant return on investment, but that’s not always the case. It’s not to say that these renovations don’t add some value to your home, but it doesn’t give you the biggest ROI. What’s going to add comfort and save you money on your energy bill?

Energy Savings

Replacement windows have the ability to save you a substantial amount on your energy bill. Does it matter if you buy a single-pane or double-pane window? Yes, it does. Single-pane windows don’t offer any insulation between the glass. Double-pane windows are insulated, they are built with two layers of glass. The two layers provide the insulation because it helps to slow down drafts. The technology in many of them is filled with insulating gas that absorbs UV rays and wind before entering the home. Although these windows are more expensive than single-pane, they save you money on your electric bill. When purchasing a double-pane low-e is very important. Low-e coating helps to keep the good in and the bad out.

Return on Investment

Replacing your windows have a return on investment of about 70 to 80 percent. That’s a significant ROI. That is also depending on the window you buy and your area’s market. Vinyl windows are typically the best option if you’re on a tight budget. The energy efficiency of these windows is similar to a fiberglass or composite frame. Many find wood frames to be the most aesthetically pleasing, but they are the more expensive window. The window style you choose does affect your ROI. Keep in mind the things we covered about a single-pane and double-pane window. The better options are usually more expensive but in the long run provide you with a better investment.

Is it worth the cost?

There are many benefits to replacing your windows that people don’t realize. If you’re wanting to reduce your energy bill while increasing the comfort and value of your home, that’s the project to choose. Even the Department of Energy says that replacing old inefficient windows is a good thing for the environment. It’s safe to say after looking at the benefits replacing your windows can provide, it’s worth the cost!

Does my HOA allow Vinyl Windows?

Zoë Thomas August 31, 2018

Homeowners are tired of their thirty-year-old windows that only have a single-pane that aren’t energy efficient, they want something new and fresh.

There are many advances in window technology that allow for a more energy efficient experience. Window Manufacturers give the option of purchasing vinyl, wood, fiberglass, or aluminum frames. The design options are endless with the trim and grids of a window. With all of these options, it can make things confusing to a consumer on which window will best fit their needs and also what regulations to follow according to their HOA.

Style Standards

The standards the HOA has on new windows can seem confusing on the do’s and dont’s, one thing you can always remember is that they must stay similar to the original windows. The reason for this is to not distract from other homes that have not replaced yet.

Your HOA goes off of the design of the neighborhood when determining the style standard. Different color options are available depending on the frame’s material. That being said, the portion of the window frame that is visible is a color such as white, tan, or almond for vinyl and wood can be painted any color. Depending on the window manufacturers choice of design a window can appear different even if it contains the same material.

HOA regulations are not something new to Efficiency Home Improvements. Many projects are in gated communities or in neighborhoods with very strict rules on new window installations. These homes are typically custom built with builder grade wood windows having SDL grilles.

When homeowners replace it is made to seem they must replace with wood windows primarily because of the SDL grilles, that isn’t always the case. There is the option of purchasing a vinyl window with a custom wood look. Vinyl is a more affordable option. Giving the alternative to replace with wood-clad gives homeowners the freedom to replace more than a few windows at a time because of the cost. If you’re wanting to replace your windows and still have that classic wood look for a great price contact EHI today!