best windows

How to choose the best windows and doors for your home

/in /by

Whether you’re building a new home and want to make sure it is well insulated, or if you are looking to replace the windows and doors in your current home with energy-efficient ones, choosing the right windows and doors can be overwhelming. There are so many choices on the market today that it’s hard to know where to start when picking replacement. If this sounds like you, take a look at our blog post by Hardy Windows for some tips on how to choose the best windows and doors for your needs!

There are a few big factors that determine which type of windows and doors are best for your house: style, insulation properties, security, installation costs, cost per square foot installed vs. cost per square foot in stock (installed), warranty coverage/length of coverage, and ease of use.

The first thing you will want to think about is the types of windows and doors that can be installed in your home. When deciding which type of window or door to use, always go with a quality brand name for both windows and doors. It will cost you less money in the long run as opposed to going with a cheaper product from a no-name brand.

Make sure to consider the style of your home when choosing a type of window and door replacement. Different styles of windows and doors tend to work better with different types of homes. For example, if your home is more modern in design, you will want to go for a cleaner look that can be found on some newer style replacement window and door. If you live in a more traditional looking home, try going with an older traditional style window and door that will match well with your home.

Another factor in window and door choice is insulation properties. When comparing windows and doors, consider the insulation levels in each product. Windows and doors with higher R-values for insulation tend to be more efficient than those with lower ratings.

The next thing you will want to think about before picking a window or door is security. Window and door replacement is an excellent way to add more security to your home. However, you will most likely not want to install something that is so tight in security that it can’t be used. Make sure to find a good medium between security features and usability when deciding on windows or doors.

Installation costs also play an important role when choosing new windows and doors for your home. The actual window or door cost should be a big part of the equation, but the cost for installation should not be overlooked either. When you get new windows and doors installed, there will also likely need to be some adjustments made to your old window and door frames. All of these factors can add up quickly and make it more difficult to choose which new window or door set will work best for you.

Another important factor to consider is how much it will cost per square foot installed vs. the price of a stock window or door. When comparing windows and doors, remember that some products have lower prices per square foot as opposed to others. A good example of this would be new vinyl replacement windows compared with wood or fiberglass. It is important to understand this difference when choosing which window or door you would like to use in your home.

The warranty coverage of your doors and windows is another factor that can affect your decision. The length of the warranty coverage will vary depending on the type of replacement windows or doors that you choose, so always pay close attention to what is included in the warranty.

Finally, it should go without saying that ease of use should also be considered when picking new windows and doors. Although you will likely want to make sure your replacement windows are secure, you do not want them installed so tight that they are difficult for you to open yourself. Make sure the door or window can be opened and closed easily without needing a lot of effort.

When it comes down to choosing the best windows and doors for your home, remember all of these factors. It will be difficult at first to think about so many aspects when you are shopping around for new windows or doors, but once you get familiar with them they will become second nature to you. Make your choice an informed one by taking all of these factors into consideration, and you likely will not go wrong with whatever product you choose.

If you have any questions and want to see replacement windows in person, come visit our Hardy Windows showroom in Orange County. We always have a friendly and knowledgeable salesman and staff eager to help. We offer 30+ different window and door manufacturers. When you visit our showroom you can see how the windows and doors operate alongside the different options offered.

Our Placentia window & door showroom in north central Orange County is available to view products such as wood, vinyl, fiber-glass and aluminum windows; sliding, patio, interior, entry doors, and other options to accommodate any budget!

Call us today at: (714) 996-1807

Source: https://www.remodelingcosts.com/windows/types-windows/

how to find the best contractors

How to find the best contractors in your area

/in /by

Finding the best contractors for your home improvement or remodeling project can be time consuming and frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be. Hardy Windows has some tips on how you can find the best contractors in your area.

1. Find a contractor that is licensed and insured. We recommend using a contractor who is properly licensed, bonded and insured. While it might be cheaper to go another route, it’s better to be safe than sorry when dealing with strangers at your home. Even though a contractor may have references from satisfied customers, they could also have a criminal history that would make them an unsafe person for you to do business with.

2. Ask for personal referrals – check out reviews online AND ask friends and family if they have any recommendations. The best references come from people you know and trust. Here are a few questions to ask your contractor’s former customers: How do you like working with this contractor? Do they return calls and emails promptly? What was their estimated price versus what you wound up paying at the end of the project, and why did it change? Did they arrive on time for appointments every day throughout the project, including weekends? Were there any unexpected surprises during construction (like additional costs)? It’s also a good idea to check online reviews before hiring someone. Look at review sites such as AngiesList or Yelp.

3. Make sure you hire someone who will be available when you need them (i.e., not on vacation). Scheduling can be a huge problem when hiring a contractor. Many homeowners have been burned because the contractor they chose went on vacation without telling them beforehand or stopped returning calls altogether after work began. Make sure to get the contact information of the key people you will be dealing with throughout the project and check often to make sure they are available to answer your questions.

4. Hire a contractor with good customer service skills. Use a contractor who communicates well and takes pride in their work, even if it’s a small job. Ask yourself: Does this person answer your questions promptly? Do they provide clear explanations about what needs to get done?

5. Get quotes from at least three contractors to see how their prices compare Hardy. Make sure you get a detailed estimate for exactly what the contractor will provide, including parts and labor costs. Get more than one quote so that you can compare prices and find out if there are other hidden fees or expenses associated with the project, such as “trip charges,” which happen when a company forces you to buy all materials from them.

Check the contractor’s portfolio of completed projects, including photos and testimonials from customers.  Check out the contractor’s work online. Look for a website or social media presence, or you can always ask to see a portfolio of commercial and residential projects they have worked on in the past which will give you a better idea of what your final product will look like.

We hope these tips will help you find the best professional for your project. Hardy is also here to answer any of your questions and help you learn more about home windows and doors before starting a new project. Give us a call today at (714) 996-1807.

What to consider before replacing your windows

/in /by

If you can’t shut your windows or lock them, they may need to be repaired or replaced. You should know that window repair projects usually start at $200 and go up depending on the jobs needed. The exact price depends on the broken part of the window, the size, and the window type. Replacing a window is more expensive, The average window replacement cost is between $400 and $1,000 per window with most homeowners spending $403 to $631 on average. Replacements are generally done in one day, whereas repairs usually take a few days.

So if you’re considering replacement, here’s what to think about:

1) Are you repairing or replacing?

Options include: repairing only minor damage such as small cracks; consolidating multiple panes of glass with tempered glass; adding energy-efficient glazing film to old single-pane windows; and replacing the entire window with new vinyl, wood, fiberglass or aluminum units.

2) Do you want to repair or replace?

Replacement costs twice as much as a great repair job done by a good DIYer. If you’re considering replacement, make sure you can do it yourself or hire a good local contractor who specializes in windows. Hardy Windows is the right choice for Replacement Windows.

3) Are your existing windows energy efficient?  The latest R-value window ratings give an accurate measure of insulation value, so choose low-E coated glass if your house is tightly sealed against air conditioning bills. Otherwise, go with double-paned windows that have been treated with low-E coatings on both sides.

4) What is your budget?

Window replacements generally run $400 to $1000 per window, depending on the size and type of window, as well as installation costs. You can buy windows online or at a local window retailer. For a local option, Hardy Windows installs high quality Replacement Windows in the So Cal area. Consult with one of our window experts to find out which type of replacement windows would be right for your home and style preferences. Hardy Windows has been around since 1989 and continues to provide energy-efficiency, comfort, durability and beautiful windows and doors.

5) Are you replacing old single-pane windows?

If so, make sure you know which kind of glass performs best in your area. It’s not unusual for an average summer cooling bill to go over $500, so surely you’ll want the best within your budget. Hardy installs Replacement Windows that feature considerable energy savings and noise reduction for homes in Southern California.

6) Is your former window uneven? Or does it have broken or missing panes of glass?

If so, it’s probably not worth repairing. There are just too many problems that need immediate attention from someone who knows what they’re doing.

7) Is your window drafty?

A window’s ability to stop air infiltration is often more important than its ability to block heat loss. Heat naturally flows from warm areas to cold ones, so consider double-paned windows with gas fill or low-E coatings that reflect heat back into Hardy Hardy houses during cold winter months. Hardy installs Replacement Windows for any style home, including traditional vinyl replacement windows , wood replacement windows , fiberglass replacement windows and aluminum clad wood windows.

Give us a call today to learn more. (714) 996-1807

good first impression

Do your windows make a good first impression?

/in /by

A lot of people don’t think about their windows until it’s too late, and then they’re stuck with old, ugly ones.

Windows are one of the first things that guests see when entering your home or office space. They say a lot about who you are as an individual or business owner. If your windows are in bad shape, it can make a negative impression on visitors to your home or business. This is especially true if you live in an older building where the style choices were not great back when they were installed.

Here are a few ideas to make a big impact with your windows:

Out with the Old

Replace any broken or cracked windows. New windows can make any home or office space look fresh and updated. 

Highlight the View

Take into account the view you want to show off. If there’s a beautiful view outside, it might be worth installing windows that bring in more light and showcase the best part of your property. The opposite can also make for an impressive feature; tall narrow windows can emphasize height or grandeur without giving too much away.

Energy Efficiency

Double-paned glass windows provide added insulation to make energy costs lower and the building more comfortable overall. Energy efficient windows are a must these days given the high prices of heating and air conditioning bills.

A fresh coat of Paint

If you’re having trouble choosing between different types of windows, paint color might be able to help. Painting the window frames of tall narrow windows white will make them look taller and wider than they actually are.

No view?

If you have an ugly view outside, it might be worth considering adding windows just for that. A bay or bow window can bring in extra light and looks great from the inside but doesn’t give away much of the view outside.

Break/Fix

Ensure your windows open properly before trying to make any design choices at all. Make simple fixes like oiling or replacing gliders, tightening hinges, and hanging cords properly to avoid damage.

Weather Stripping

Weather stripping helps keep drafts out of your home or office space during the winter months. It’s worth spending some time to tape up any spaces around doors and windows that might be letting in air (or bugs!) this summer.

Hardy Window Replacement offers the best window replacement services around town! Our products will improve how your place looks and feels while also improving energy efficiency and adding value to any real estate property you own! 

If you would like a virtual or in-home estimate for windows & doors, call (714) 996-1807 or email Zoe@hardywindows.com for more information.

Window Replacement

Window Replacement: How much does it impact my home’s value?

/in /by

One of the first considerations a homeowner should make when considering window replacement is how much it will impact their home’s value. Window manufacturers recommend you replace windows every 25 years, but this may be dependent on other factors such as climate and type of glass. This article explores what replacement windows cost and the effect they have on your property’s market value.

Quality of Windows

There are many factors that determine the cost of window replacement. The most important factor is the quality of windows you choose to replace them with. The higher-quality glass and material, the more costly your replacement will be. Replacing old drafty single-pane windows in an area that sees extreme temperature change, like Southern California, can cost upwards of $12,000 . On the other end of the spectrum, high-end vinyl windows can cost as little as $300 per window.

Based on the average salary of a U.S. worker, homeowners who spend less than one week’s salary on home improvement projects typically receive more return on investment . For example, spending around $500 to replace old windows will generally increase your property value by about $12-$15 per dollar spent. In contrast, expensive home additions such as pools and outdoor fireplaces are among the least likely to receive a return on investment .

Decrease Energy Bills

In California, energy costs must be factored in when considering replacement windows. In late summer and early fall, old drafty windows lead to soaring electrical bills. Replacing them can actually save homeowners money.

Today, many companies offer financing options to make window replacement more affordable. For example, at Hardy Windows, we offer a low-interest, long-term, tax-deductible financing option that is repaid through your property taxes. Approvals are not based on credit scores and applying is simple! Just pick the energy efficient upgrades, select Hardy Window Company, and get your project started!

New windows and doors make an impact on the market value of your home. If you are considering replacement, the first step is to determine your budget. Then choose quality windows and materials that will increase your home’s value while delivering energy efficiency and comfort .

Come check out our Anaheim showroom at Hardy Windows and put together a plan to upgrade your home with new windows and doors. You will always get quality craftsmanship and peace of mind through labor and product warranties on ALL installations.

Tips for Buying New Doors

Top Tips for Buying New Doors

/in /by

Nothing pumps up your home’s curb appeal like some new doors. Whether you’re looking to sell, want to maximize your comfort, or just want to keep those energy bills as low as possible, these tips will help you get the most from your door-buying experience. 

 

Know the Lingo

When you contact a representative about what you’re looking for, it will be beneficial if you can use the right terms and definitions. For instance, “outswing” refers to a door that opens outward, while “inswing” refers to one that opens into the home. You should also be able to identify the molding, casing, and trim around your door and whether or not you want a right-handed or left-handed hinge. The faster you can point our team in the right direction, the better the chance we can get you exactly what you want. 

 

Look for Wear and Tear

There are lots of reasons to want a replacement door, and they aren’t all related to aesthetics. For instance, you should check all of your doors regularly for warping, cracks, scratches, or rotting. If you find any, you might also want to hire an inspector to see if this damage goes beyond the door itself! Another thing to test is whether or not your outside doors are properly sealing. A good way to do this is by holding a lit lighter to the frame. If the flame moves, you’re might be losing big money in energy costs. 

 

Don’t Forget the Storm Doors

There’s nothing quite like a big beautiful exterior door, so it’s a good idea to protect your investment from the elements. A good storm door can create a barrier between your new door and damaging wind, water, hail, and snow. It also provides an added layer of insulation, which can keep your HVAC from working overtime in extreme weather. There are dozens of options for storm doors, most of which are a great aesthetic complement to your home. 

 

Entry Doors are a Big Selling Point

Speaking of entry doors, it’s important to remember that your front door is essentially the “face” of your home. Of course, no two faces are (or should be) perfectly alike. Take some time and decide which sort of entry door will fit your property best. Wood doors are heavy and durable, but they can be costly and subject to warping and rot. Steel doors are resistant to breakage and help maximize energy efficiency. However, they can be easily scratched or dented, which ruins the overall look. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is considered the best combination of the two. It’s also extremely energy efficient!

 

Everyone Loves a Great Patio Door

 

The entry door may be the most important, but entire homes have been sold based on the back patio alone. So if you’ve invested some money into your deck space, don’t allow it to go to waste by purchasing a low-quality patio door.  Sliding doors are very popular as they can help maximize space both inside and out. Swinging doors are more secure, however, and can offer a bit more privacy as they don’t have to be made of glass. French doors are highly prized by home buyers and are a stunning addition to any space. Just prepare to pay top dollar for them!

 

Conclusion

No matter what sort of doors you’re looking for, it’s important that you have someone on your side who can help you make the right choices for the right price. At Hardy Windows, we have over 30 years of experience providing Orange County customers with amazing door and window services. For repairs, installations, and accessories done right, come to Hardy Windows. 

New Windows

New Windows For a Hot So Cal Fall

/in /by

It’s fall in Southern California and the weather is starting to heat up. There are many homeowners that have had their homes remodeled during this time of year, but they may not have considered the windows as a project on their to do list.  Here are some ideas for why you might want to consider new windows if your home is getting toasty inside. 

  • extreme fall temperatures, both hot and cold
  • energy efficiency 
  • improving your property value.

Hot, hot, hot and then cold…

Is someone in your home always complaining that it’s too hot or too cold? Ever feel like the gaps in your old windows are a money sucking bottomless pit? 

A great reason to consider new windows is the energy efficiency they provide. If it’s been getting warmer inside during this time of year, or if it seems like your air conditioning bill has gone up significantly since last fall, chances are good that your old single pane windows aren’t offering you the kind of insulation that they used to. Replacing them with double pane windows can help reduce your energy bill while also giving you more comfort during this time of year.

Energy Efficient Windows

Did you know that window glass is the single most important factor in determining a window’s energy efficiency?  To find out how much money you could save with energy efficient windows, enter your zip code at www.energystar.gov/savings 

Curb Appeal

Lastly, if you’re looking for a project or just something new in general it’s always fun to try out different styles and see what works best for your home. Not only can you change up how it looks inside, but your windows are also an important part of the overall structure and increase your property value so replacing them will ensure that they’re not letting any drafts in or out during this time of year. New windows are a great way to improve curb appeal if you’re trying to sell it or improve your home’s interior aesthetic. With many styles ranging from modern double hungs for new construction homes all the way to casement windows, you will surely find a style that works for your home.

You might be surprised at just how affordable new replacement windows can be. In the long run, the cost of home improvements will help you save money in energy bills, improve your family’s comfort and make your home more appealing to future buyers. Make it a priority to take care of your home and enjoy an improved look during this time of year by replacing old windows with new ones from Hardy Windows today!

Doggy Door

Doggy Door Options to Help Your Pet Beat the Heat

/in /by

Our furry little friends are important parts of our family, and it’s our responsibility to keep them safe and happy. When summer comes, this means ensuring our pups aren’t left outside for extended periods of time. In fact, as little as 15 minutes in 90-degree heat can be enough to cause the early symptoms of heatstroke!

Of course, most of us can’t be home all the time. So how do we let our dogs out to do their business while giving them a chance to get back in before they overheat?

State-of-the-Art Patio Doors

You need a patio door that not only fits your needs as a dog owner, but as a homeowner as well. That’s where a New Horizon Patio Door can be the perfect solution. These elegant patio doors are specially designed to maximize the amount of light that enters your home while minimizing heat from the sun. Of course, all options can be customized with the company’s one-of-a-kind pet door design, as well as a bevy of other features.  

Durable Construction

New Horizon doors take security to the next level. The fusion-welded frame and sash are both steel-reinforced, while the rollers are backed up by sealed stainless steel ball bearings to reduce friction and wear. Get a beautiful view that will as long as you need it, and seamless function with every open and close. 

Customized Designs

Choose from the classic Riviera French Sliding door, with its traditional wide rail and contoured molding, the Classic French Door set in either out-swing or in-swing designs, or the ultra-modern 2200 Series, with optional blinds between the glass panels. Each style is fully customizable and can be perfectly suited to your specific needs.   

Available Low E and Solar AG Glass Systems

All New Horizon patio doors offer the revolutionary Ameriglass AG3 Low Emissivity coating, which is a patented formula that helps maintain visibility while ensuring maximum energy efficiency and solar control. It also includes an argon gas fill, which prevents energy loss up to 12% better than traditional air, and True Warm Spacers, a unique structural foam to keep hot air outside and cold air in. 

Amerimax Pet Door Systems

Unique to the New Horizon brand, these state-of-the-art pet doors are among the best on the market. With double flaps, nylon weather stripping, and multiple magnets to keep out heat, wind, insects, and pests, these pet doors are the perfect blend of efficiency and security. 

Hardy Windows and Doors Can Help!

When it comes to patio doors, you – and your pet – deserve the very best. Ensure that your dogs get easy access to the outside when they need it, and safety from the heat when the temperatures start to climb. Amerimax New Horizon Patio Doors are the best way to give you and man’s best friend a safe, stunning, and energy-efficient view. 

Energy Saving Windows

How We Helped Our Community Save Millions

/in /by

This shouldn’t come as a surprise: high temperatures result in high energy bills. 

Imagine… it’s July, the sun is beating down, your house is unbearable, and your only solace is cranking down the thermostat. Why wastefully blast the AC all summer when there is such an easy way to cut down how long you need to keep the air cranked?

Buying New windows.

The U.S department of Energy says you can save up to $583/year when you replace single-pane windows. 

Since double-pane windows last anywhere from 10 to 20 years means that you can potentially save up to $5,830-11,660 dollars on energy costs (not including gas bills); not to mention the fact that those same windows increase the value of your home or building in the process (click here to see our options.) 

This fact means that through the over 20,000 combined residences, apartments, offices, highrises, etc. we have helped, we will have potentially produced saved energy costs of 100 MILLION dollars or more over time; and the number Just. Keeps. Growing. 

The one reason that people don’t want to be involved in the millions of dollars we save our community over time is for one reason and one reason only…

People see a price-tag – not the wasted energy and heating bills they accrue over the years.

Look, we get it… people view window purchases as a daunting decision, but month in and month out those same people don’t consider the cost of their bills.

Investing in new windows, EVEN WITH the cost of financing (click here to see our options), is a drop in the bucket compared to the wasted energy savings that happens with outdated single-pane windows; especially when coupling the savings with the increase in home value.

With dual-pane windows that absorb and trap heat in pockets of gas in-between the panes, you can be apart of the savings. If you’re interested to see that seemingly off-putting price tag now that you know about how much you can save, click here to contact us for a free no-pressure estimate on your energy-saving windows & doors.

Hardy Windows: Angie’s List Super Service Award

/in /by

Hardy Window Company has earned the home service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of customer service to members of the local services marketplace and consumer review site in 2016.

angies-list-logo-vectorThis achievement is particularly significant as Angie’s List experienced unprecedented member growth in 2016. More than 1.6 million consumers, many of whom were eager to quickly hire highly qualified service pros, joined Angie’s List after the company added a new, free membership tier.

“Companies that can meet higher demands without missing a beat in their exemplary performance standards truly do stand apart from their peers,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “Only a fraction of the Window & Door companies in Orange County were able to do it.”

Angie’s List Super Service Award 2016 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an “A” rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period grade. The SSA winners must also be in good standing with Angie’s List, pass a background check and abide by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

“Attitude is Everything”  -Chance Hardyshowroom-17-875x360

Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List as new, verified consumer reviews are submitted. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality.

For more than 21 years, Angie’s List restricted access to its verified reviews to consumers who paid membership fees. When the company removed that barrier, some companies worried that the new, non-paying members would not be as engaged as members of the past. Experience has shown, however, that these newly added members are just as engaged – across all age groups – as prior members. Also, because the company continues to adhere to its review verification process, there has been no degradation of review quality.

“The biggest change at Angie’s List is that we are connecting even more consumers to high quality service professionals,” Hicks said. “And that’s good for everyone.”

###

Angie’s List helps facilitate happy transactions between more than 4.5 million consumers nationwide and its collection of highly rated service providers in more than 720 categories of service, ranging from home improvement to health care. Built on a foundation of more than 10 million verified reviews of local service, Angie’s List connects consumers directly to its online marketplace of services from member-reviewed providers, and offers unique tools and support designed to improve the local service experience for both consumers and service professionals. 

Want to leave your own review? Check out our Angies’ List profile here!