Wonderful Winter Window Decorating Ideas

December 18, 2017 Doug Bennett

The shorter days and longer nights of winter mean your home will be illuminated from within every evening. What better time to create some beautiful holiday themed windows? The team at All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding has gathered these window decorating ideas from Pinterest to inspire you to make your windows festive. Maybe even get the kids involved!

Wreaths Put the O in Ho, Ho, Ho

Whether you put one big wreath in each window or dangle a few smaller wreaths at varying lengths, writhes with greenery and and bows add a festive touch to any window.

Ornaments Aren’t Just for Trees

Take those festive ornaments off the tree and display them in a window. Choose elegant metallics, festive red and white or bright jewel tones and hang them from ribbons, garland, beads, etc. Mix it up and make it your own! They’ll look great from both inside and outside.

Get a Little Flaky

Snowflakes are appropriate all winter long, so adorn your panes with any kind you can find. Create a snowflake curtain. Get the kids involved and make them out of paper, get some from the dollar store, or even use the stick-on variety.

Pearls, Polka Dots and Doilies

Get a more elegant look by stringing pearls like window garland and adding small white dots to simulate snowflakes. Multi-size doilies also do a great job of pretending to be a Christmas tree when placed and spaced appropriately.

Light It Up

Lights always add a festive touch. They don’t have to be fancy. Stars, snowflakes or just glowing orbs will bring a touch of holiday magic to any window. Go with small dainty lights or even one big show stopper like the big star below.

Do You See What I See?

Use large letters to send a message of holiday joy to your neighbors and passersby. This is perfect for bay and bow windows too. If you have four windows, choose a word like NOEL. Five windows…PEACE works nicely.

Take the Elf Off the Shelf

Break the rules and have some fun with playfully posed elves. Add a ladder at the bottom or trapeze swings to the top. Let the kids help with this one and get as creative as possible. Young and old alike will find delight in this display.

We hope these ideas have inspired you to share your holiday spirit with the world through your windows! Happy holiday wishes from your friends at All-Weather Windows, Doors and Siding!

Doors, General News, Windows

Jamb Brace: The Front Door Safety Feature So Good, It Changed Building Codes in Kansas City

April 4, 2017 Doug Bennett

all-weather-jambbrace

At All-Weather Window, Doors, and Siding, we know security is always a priority for our window and door customers. Windows and doors are the weakest part of your home when it comes to safety. The typical front door can be broken through in less than 45 seconds with three or four good kicks from an average sized man. The problem is that the deadbolt device depends on wood for support and wood is not the strongest material. It will split if enough force is used. So what can you do to make your front door safer? Meet Jamb Brace the Door Reinforcer®.

We’ve Been Jamb Brace Fans for Almost Two Decades

All-Weather Window & Doors has promoted Jamb Brace since its inception in 1997. We get called by insurance agencies for entry door replacement after home break-ins, so we see a lot of these instances and no matter how strong your door is, it’s only as strong as the wooden frame that surrounds it. Jamb Brace is the only product that makes your door secure.

What Is Jamb Brace?

Jamb Brace is a heavy-duty aluminum insert that is added to your door’s weakest part – the frame. It is completely concealed within the door trim. You can’t tell it’s there just by looking. Developed by veteran homebuilders and supported by law enforcement agencies and insurance companies, the Jamb Brace was designed specifically for homeowners.

Jamb Brace Was Created Right Here in Kansas City

In 1996, a series of home invasions ending in sexual assaults in Overland Park caught the interest of Overland Park police because the assailant kicked in the front doors. Overland Park policeman, Mike Betten, who worked in the crime prevention unit, saw the results firsthand. Betten had no idea how to secure a door with sidelites and received permission from the city council to go to the private sector to enlist some help. Mike approached the HBA and was put in contact with one of the board of directors, Tom O’Malley, who also owned Locks and Pulls. Tom was working on a door project with homebuilder, Ron Olberding, so he approached Ron and his business partner, David Allen, co-creators of the Jamb Brace, to test ways to make exterior doors stronger and more resistant to break-ins. “People spend thousands of dollars on alarm systems and locks, then a burglar kicks in their front door,” Olberding explained. “We knew that securing the frame, door edge and a quality deadbolt were the keys to keeping thieves out.”

The Police Department Was Extremely Impressed

Olberding and Allen worked closely with the Overland Park Police Department, to test the Jamb Brace against dozens of other theft-deterrent systems. The results were so convincing that the police department helped revise city building codes making it mandatory that new homes are fitted with a reinforced door frame.

Homes Are Now Safer in Kansas City Neighborhoods

Once Overland Park adopted the new building ordinance, many neighboring cities followed suit. Now, Overland Park, Leawood, Shawnee, Lenexa, Olathe, DeSoto, Lee’s Summit, Grain Valley, Kansas City, MO and Oak Grove all require new construction single family and multi-family homes to meet minimum security standards. Jamb Brace is the preferred product to satisfy this ordinance. Also, new replacement doors in older homes must meet the same security standards for which the Jamb Brace is the preferred product as well. Jamb Brace is manufactured right here in Overland Park by Edward Wayne, Inc.

Choose Any Door to Install with Jamb Brace

The nice thing about Jamb Brace is that it doesn’t impact the kind of door you buy. The only thing it changes is the door jamb itself so homeowners are free to choose any front door style they like. Security is always a consideration when choosing a front door. All-Weather can retrofit existing doors with Jamb Brace for added security. Or we can install a new door with Jamb Brace.

Call us for a free in-home estimate for front door installation including the Jamb Brace at (913) 262-4380 or (816) 673-2480.

Doors

Replacing Your Entry Door? Make It One-Of-A-Kind!

March 21, 2017 Doug Bennett

Your home’s front door says a lot to those entering it and means a lot to homeowners living inside of it. Why settle for outdated, drab doors when you can completely customize your dream entry door? The experts at All-Weather are breaking down the many options you have and all the benefits that come along with a new custom entry door.

Completely Customize Your Front Door

Whether you’re looking to make a strong statement, enhance curb appeal, or draw focus to specific details of your home, don’t settle for just any entry door.

Let the experts at All-Weather help you create a custom door unlike any other. Choose from a variety of different materials, colors, stains and custom glass features to create a surprising focal point and make it one-of-a-kind.

Go completely outside the box, or pick from our wide array of customizable features to tie your front door into the interior design and decor of your home. Change the architectural style of your front door and go from basic to beautiful, and incorporate the small details that make your home uniquely yours.

Benefits of Updating Your Entry Door

Replacing an exterior door is cost-effective and does so much more than enhance curb appeal. A new front door saves money, adds a significant layer of protection and ultimately increases the market value of your home. Here’s how:

Energy savings: A drafty entry way is responsible for hundreds of dollars lost each year in heating and cooling bills. Older doors may no longer fit properly, or provide enough insulation to be efficient. A new door will almost pay for itself in energy and dollar savings. The return on your investment here is huge.

Added protection and value: In addition to the wow factor, replacing the entry door helps eliminate the possibility of moisture seepage and mold from damaging interior walls and ceilings. The added security of a new door is a safety boost for personal protection as well.
It’s all about the choices: Functionality is primary, but the details make the difference. At All-Weather, it is possible to design a distinctive front door that perfectly captures your individual aesthetic style and design vision. Glass and hardware selections are the accessories that add both style and performance features to your design, and nothing says “look at me” better than a perfect color choice. We offer a seemingly endless selection of stain and color options. Have fun!

Schedule your appointment online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380 for additional ways to transform the looks of your home. With thirty years of experience, and top notch customer service, we will help you find a style that is right for you.

Doors

Keep the Cool Air in This Spring: 3 Fast Fixes for Drafty Doors

February 27, 2017 Doug Bennett

During the winter, drafty doors are made obvious due to the harsh cold creeping in. Many homeowners don’t realize that those drafty doors also make it difficult for your home to cool down during warmer months. No matter what the season, a drafty door can cost you money, energy efficiency, and leave parts of your home uncomfortable. Outside of installing new entry doors in Kansas City, Here are three easy ways to fix drafty doors this season.

Add Weatherstripping

Do you have large gaps between your door and door frame on either side or the top? Install a weatherstripping gasket around your door frame to keep the outside conditions where they are meant to be…outside. To ensure the efficiency of your weatherstripping, make sure it sits tightly on the inside when the door is closed. The weatherstripping will make sure little to no air can seep through the sides or top of your door opening. While most front entry doors come installed with weatherstripping common culprits, that don’t come equipped with this feature, include garage and back doors.

Helpful Hint: Can’t find where the breeze is coming from? Wait until it’s dark outside and turn off all the lights inside your home. Next, have one person stand on either side of the door and take a flashlight around the perimeter of the door. If any light can seep through to the other side, so can air, which means you’re a prime candidate for weatherstripping!

Replace the Door Sweep

If you often feel a draft coming from the bottom of your door, check the door sweep, which is usually a rubber or brush-like strip attached to the bottom of the door. Is it bent or out of place? If so, it could be letting air slip into your home. You can easily replace your door sweep with a brand new one yourself. Just unscrew the old one, and screw the new door sweep into place.

Seal the Door Frame

Is your door frame a bit loose from the wall? If you can see a gap, and can feel a draft there, you want to consider caulking your door frame. Apply silicone caulk around the door frame and let it dry for 24 hours. This will seal the door frame into place and restrict air from seeping into your home.

If these tips don’t seem to eliminate your drafty door issues, it may be time to replace your door with a newer, more energy-efficient option. While dealing with a little breeze may be bearable, the money you may be wasting is not. Be sure to check your main doors each season to ensure your home remains energy efficient and your money stays in your pocket!

For more information, give All-Weather a call at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online to talk about our amazing options for replacement doors and installation!

Doors, Uncategorized

Which Entry Door Is Right for Your Kansas City Home? Take the Quiz & Find Out

January 24, 2017 Doug Bennett

Sick of staring at the drab, out-of-date entry door? Unsure of what you’d like to replace it with? All-Weather can help! Now there is a fun quiz you can take to find out which of the Kansas City entry doors are right for your home. Before you take the quiz, here are a few ideas to help assess your entry door needs:

Behind Door #1: The Problem Solver

If certain things aggravate you about your current door, don’t replace it with a door that may create those same problems down the road. Assess your main need, and choose accordingly. Are you trying to keep cool air in and hot air out? Are you also interested in the best security to keep the bad guys out? Our quiz will help you solve these answers and make sure you don’t make the same mistakes twice.

Behind Door #2: Say It With Style

Your entry door is the first impression of your home and tells everyone about your personal living style. Do you have a grand Gothic entry that opens up to cottage, shabby chic? Don’t re-decorate your cozy, comfy digs. It’s easier to get an exterior door to match your interior style rather than winding up with an extreme makeover: your home edition.

Behind Door #3: How Much Is That Doorway In the Window?

Price points are always an important factor in the final decision. Don’t set yourself up for a big disappointment by falling in love with a front door that’s out of your budget. Keep your sights set on the doors you can afford. Stop by an All-Weather showroom and we’ll be happy to help find an entry door that will fit your home’s needs and your budget!

Take All-Weather’s Door Finder Quiz

If you can’t decide on the right door, click here to take our door finder quiz. Our quiz will help you answer all those nagging questions, like:

What door fits your home’s personality?
What door fits your home’s needs?
What door offers special options to meet particular performance demands?

Once you complete the quiz, and select the door of your dreams, then trust the home exterior experts at All-Weather to install your new exterior door. Homeowners in Kansas City have been enjoying the expertise and quality service of All-Weather for more than 30 years in exterior options like siding, windows and exterior doors.

Still can’t make up your mind? Let us help! Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online today!

Doors

How to DIY Your Old Door into a Gorgeous New Table

January 12, 2017 Doug Bennett

A unique table is a great way to jazz up your living room or spark conversation during your next dinner party. However, custom tables can be quite expensive, costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Luckily, there’s an incredibly affordable way to get the custom table you’ve been looking for by upcycling your old entryway door! If you’ve got a weekend and an old door that needs new life, this easy DIY project is sure to impress.

What You’ll Need:

In order to begin the conversion process, you’ll need these materials:

One door. This will be the tabletop.
Four wooden posts. These will be the table legs.
Four boards measuring 1x3x8 feet. These will be the skirt boards for the table.
Beveled-cut glass measured the same size as the door. This will protect the door and provide a flat surface for the table.

It’s also a good idea to have these tools:

Power sander and sandpaper.
Pocket-hole jig.
Chop saw.
Drill and screws.
Paint and brushes.

Time to Build It

Cut the wood posts to the desired height of the table. A standard dining table is 29 inches; subtract from that the thickness of the door plus the glass, and that will be the length of your posts.
Construct the skirt of the table from the plank boards. The skirt is a wood overhang that connects the legs and holds up the tabletop. You’ll be cutting them down from 8 feet. Measure the length and the width of your door. Then from each number, subtract the 2 inches plus the thickness of the wood posts. Use these numbers to determine how long each board should be (you’ll be cutting two boards for each number).
You’ll drill three pocket holes on the inside ends of the skirt boards, so you can attach the skirt to the posts. Then, drill a number of pocket holes along the inside of the skirt board, spacing them a foot apart. This is how you’ll attach the skirt boards to the underside of the door.
This is a great time to prepare the tabletop. Sand the door with the power sander and sandpaper, apply primer and then paint it to the desired color. Wait for it to dry before continuing.
Now let’s assemble the table. Screw the legs to the skirt through the pocket holes. Next, place the table base on top and screw through the single pocket holes that you drilled on the inside of the skirt boards.
Finally, lay the glass on top of the door. You may need assistance as glass of this size can be quite heavy, which also helps it to stay in place during the course of regular use.

Need a new entry door to replace the old one? Contact us today for a free consultation on what benefits you’ll gain when you install a new entry door.

Doors

The Top 5 Entry Door Trends for 2017

January 3, 2017 Doug Bennett

The front door is the focal point of your home. According to Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value Report for 2017, a stylish and beautiful door can add an average of 90.7 percent of your cost to the value to your home. A new entry door not only boosts your home’s curb appeal, but improves energy efficiency and security. There are many options available and making the right choice can be overwhelming. To help you get started, let’s take a look at some of the top entry door trends for 2017.

1. Go for the Grand Entryway

Grand entryways are a popular trend. If you want your entryway to be a showstopper, then you should choose a door that is stunning and ornate to welcome guests into it (like the example pictured above.) Keep in mind, however, that you want your door to keep with the overall style of your home

2. Add A Unique Touch

Another way to stand out in 2017 is to be casual, but a little unusual. Consider adding a unique touch such as doors with transom windows (pictured on the right) or even arched doors.

If you have an older home, choose a door that is consistent with the style and era of your home. Unsure of your options? We have lots to offer!

3. It’s Time to Go Bigger

Front doors are becoming larger. If you have a high enough ceiling in your entrance hall, you may wish to consider an eight, or perhaps even nine-foot-tall door. In addition to growing taller, doors are getting wider, some designs are three-and-a-half feet wide. Therma-Tru currently offers a door measuring three-foot six-inch-wide, and eight-foot-tall.

4. Energy Efficiency is a Must

Homeowners are increasingly concerned about energy-efficiency and seek products with the latest technology to keep the home functional and comfortable. Not only do we offer energy efficient solutions for your entry door, we provide a beautiful, wide range of styles to match your home perfectly.

5. Steel Makes It Stronger

Security doors are for the refined homeowner who appreciates the absolute best. Available in unique designs, these heavy gauge, welded steel doorframes and decorative panels give a lifetime of security and beauty. Check out a beautiful option in the picture to the right!

Don’t Wait to Make it Great!

Any time is a great time to replace your entry door. Especially if you are upgrading to a more energy-efficient door. The sooner you have your new door installed, the sooner you can begin saving money on your utility bills.

Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or stop by one of our showrooms today! It’s easy to schedule appointments and see the newest products on the market.

Doors, Siding, Windows

Cost vs. Value Report: How New Windows, Doors, & Siding Can Save You Money in 2017

December 27, 2016 Doug Bennett

Have you heard the news? The final analysis from Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report shows that adding new windows, installing exterior doors, as well as adding new and beautiful home siding benefits your home and saves you money.

The experts at All-Weather are breaking down this valuable report to give you the facts and trends that truly matter:

Remodel Return Comparisons

As we move into 2017, remodel trends are geared toward curb appeal features that are more energy-efficient than ever. An average home remodel project gave homeowners a nearly 65% return by increasing the value of a home sold within one year of project completion. That number is nearly 3% greater than what it was in 2015.

With new door, window and siding designs that feature gorgeous craftsmanship and greater energy-efficiency, 2017 should see an even larger increase of return on investment for home sales after remodel project completion.

2017 Remodeling Trends

This coming year homeowners are expected to focus on the areas of greater returns heightening the value of their investment. Those key areas would be doors, windows and siding. For example, the replacement door of choice for 2016 was fiberglass.

Homeowners who anticipate putting a house on the market are upgrading to get a return on investment through better sale prices, but they aren’t the only ones. Data indicates that within six months of moving into a new home, about 60% of homeowners delve into a home improvement project. Return on investment for new homeowners is accumulated gradually through lower energy costs and choosing the most valuable features to remodel or replace. For a great return on your investment, consider upgrading to the latest designs of these home features:

- Steel Entry Door: Upgrades recouped more than 90% of investment through utility savings created by innovative energy-efficient designs and higher resale value of home.

- Fiberglass Entry Door: Upgrades recouped more than 82% of investment through utility savings created by innovative energy-efficient designs and improving the resale value of the home.

- Siding: Upgrades recouped nearly 80% of investment by installing higher quality siding with better insulating properties that created energy savings as well as curb appeal quality which improved market value at sale.

Windows: Whether homeowners opted for wood or vinyl replacement windows, consumers enjoyed recouping more than 70% of their investment through energy savings and enjoyed a higher resale price.

To get started on your own project, schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380. Here at All-Weather, we’ve been improving homes in Kansas City for over 30 years and we’d love to help make your remodel a reality, while also saving you money!

Doors, Insulation, Windows

Why You Don’t Have to Wait Until Spring To Replace Your Windows

December 20, 2016 Doug Bennett

If you think you have to wait until the weather is warm to install new windows, think again. Not only can you benefit from tax rebates before the end of the year, you can also start saving money on your heating bills!

Many homeowners assume it’s too cold for installation, but this is a common misconception. All-Weather is breaking down how this process takes place during the cold winter months and how it can benefit you.

How Your Current Windows Are Costing You Money

It’s old news that older models of windows are not energy-efficient. Over the past five years, there has been a revolution in housing materials due to America’s commitment to reduce its overall carbon footprint. To ensure these numbers are lower, the government has encouraged new patented products to become part of their Energy Star program. Simply put, the higher the Energy Star rating, the lower your utility bills will be. When your home is using less energy to heat or cool it, the overall carbon footprint is reduced, plus you save money on utility bills.

How Winter Window Installation Works

If you think that snow will be blowing into your home from every opening during your winter window installation, think again. We work hard to ensure that your home is not freezing cold while we are installing your windows, and this begins with only working on one window at a time.

We close off and isolate the room we are working on while the rest of the home remains warm and comfortable. Of course, if there are blizzard-type conditions that mean your home could be compromised, we will reschedule our services.

Scheduling Is Easier in the Winter Months

Psst.. want to know a secret? The window installation industry typically lowers window pricing in wintertime and it is much easier to schedule an appointment because homeowners typically assume that you can’t during winter months. However, unlike certain types of construction, window installation is easy any time of the year.

Another advantage is that there are rebates available at federal, state, and sometimes local taxation levels. In some cases, having your windows installed by the end of 2016 means that you will get a tax deduction or rebate for all or part of your install.

Want to know more about having your windows replaced? Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online today!

Doors, General News

How to Hang Holiday Decorations without Damaging Your Front Door

December 12, 2016 Doug Bennett

December is here and it’s not just the halls you want to deck… that front door could use a little holiday spirit, too!

But wait, before you get out the power tools or pick up a hammer, consider some alternative methods for displaying your holiday cheer. Here are four tips on how to hang your holiday decorations without damaging your front door:

Use Fishing Line for Hanging

Got an extra roll of fishing line lurking in the garage? Put it to work for your wreath! First, loop fishing line through the wreath, then create two additional loops and place them through your wreath. Place one of these two loops over each top corner of the door, and, voila — your wreath appears to be “floating” on your door and there’s no damage to be found.

Removable Self-Adhesive Hooks

These are ideal for displaying holiday decor both indoors and out. Command Hooks by 3M are specially designed to hold items without doing any damage to the surface. It’s a good idea to estimate the weight for the item that you want to hang before selecting the hook, because each pack of Command Hooks will indicate how much weight it can bear.

Magnetic Wreath Hanger

If your door is made of glass or metal, you can use a magnetic wreath hanger. As with Command Hooks, you will want to make certain that the hanger you choose is sufficient to hold the weight of the wreath. How does a magnet work on glass? These magnets are double sided and one half goes on each side of the glass sandwiching it between. Because it has to hold the wreath through a layer of glass, you will probably be better off selecting a lighter-weight wreath.

Over-the-Door-Wreath Hanger

Last but not least, there is always the over-the-door wreath hanger, which you can find in plastic or metal. These work very similarly to the over-the-door clothes hangers you can hang clothes on, but they’re much longer for better placement of your wreath. One little secret to keep it from scratching your door with any swinging motion is to attach a piece of felt to the back of the hanger where it touches the door. Couldn’t be easier!

Does your front door need a facelift? It’s probably time to replace it! We replace entry doors, storm doors and so much more. Contact All-Weather online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380 for more information!

Simply The Best in Replacement Windows, Doors, and Siding in Kansas City...Guaranteed!

Wreaths Put the O in Ho, Ho, Ho

Ornaments Aren’t Just for Trees

Get a Little Flaky

Pearls, Polka Dots and Doilies

Light It Up

Do You See What I See?

Take the Elf Off the Shelf

We hope these ideas have inspired you to share your holiday spirit with the world through your windows! Happy holiday wishes from your friends at All-Weather Windows, Doors and Siding!

We’ve Been Jamb Brace Fans for Almost Two Decades

What Is Jamb Brace?

Jamb Brace Was Created Right Here in Kansas City

The Police Department Was Extremely Impressed

Homes Are Now Safer in Kansas City Neighborhoods

Choose Any Door to Install with Jamb Brace

Call us for a free in-home estimate for front door installation including the Jamb Brace at (913) 262-4380 or (816) 673-2480.

Completely Customize Your Front Door

Benefits of Updating Your Entry Door

Schedule your appointment online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380 for additional ways to transform the looks of your home. With thirty years of experience, and top notch customer service, we will help you find a style that is right for you.

Add Weatherstripping

Replace the Door Sweep

Seal the Door Frame

For more information, give All-Weather a call at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online to talk about our amazing options for replacement doors and installation!

Behind Door #1: The Problem Solver

Behind Door #2: Say It With Style

Behind Door #3: How Much Is That Doorway In the Window?

Take All-Weather’s Door Finder Quiz

Still can’t make up your mind? Let us help! Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online today!

What You’ll Need:

Time to Build It

Need a new entry door to replace the old one? Contact us today for a free consultation on what benefits you’ll gain when you install a new entry door.

1. Go for the Grand Entryway

2. Add A Unique Touch

3. It’s Time to Go Bigger

4. Energy Efficiency is a Must

5. Steel Makes It Stronger

Don’t Wait to Make it Great!

Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or stop by one of our showrooms today! It’s easy to schedule appointments and see the newest products on the market.

Remodel Return Comparisons

2017 Remodeling Trends

To get started on your own project, schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380. Here at All-Weather, we’ve been improving homes in Kansas City for over 30 years and we’d love to help make your remodel a reality, while also saving you money!

How Your Current Windows Are Costing You Money

How Winter Window Installation Works

Scheduling Is Easier in the Winter Months

Want to know more about having your windows replaced? Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online today!

Use Fishing Line for Hanging

Removable Self-Adhesive Hooks

Magnetic Wreath Hanger

Over-the-Door-Wreath Hanger

Does your front door need a facelift? It’s probably time to replace it! We replace entry doors, storm doors and so much more. Contact All-Weather online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380 for more information!

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