How To Protect Your Home While on Vacation

May 11, 2017 Doug Bennett

There are two places you should pay attention to when you leave for vacation. One is inside your home. The other is outside your home. Summer is the prime time to get away, and unfortunately, it’s also the prime time for burglaries. July and August are the months with the highest number of break-ins in the United States. Taking a few specific precautions will keep your home from becoming a target.

Before you pack up the car and head on your next adventure, follow these tips from All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding to ensure that your home remains safe and sound while you’re away.

Security Tips for Inside Your Home

There are plenty of precautions you can take inside your home to deter burglars and reduce loss. Here are some that you may have heard and some you may not have:

Lock the Doors & Windows

Believe it or not, according to the FBI’s crime reports, 30 percent of home intruders enter through an unlocked door or window! Checking your home for unlocked doors and windows is crucial before leaving for an extended period of time. Don’t assume they are locked until you’ve checked them all.

Install a Jamb Brace

Another security measure you can take for your doors is installing a device called a Jamb Brace door reinforcer. It keeps thieves from being able to kick in your doors to gain entry (something that usually only takes a few seconds with most wooden door jambs. You can read more about it here:

Put Lights and TVs on Timers

Burglars look for vacant homes, not occupied homes. Create the illusion that someone is home by setting light timers throughout your home. Most TVs can also be set on a timer to turn on and off throughout the day.

Lock Up Your Valuables

If a burglar did gain access to your home, don’t make it easy to find your valuables. If you are planning to leave behind cash, jewelry, or small electronics, hide them in a safe spot. An even safer option is to lock these in a safe. There are all types of safes on the market that are both affordable and secure and they come in many different sizes.

However, remember that safes are a big target for burglars. If it’s possible to lift your safe, it’s possible for burglars to take it with them. Even if your safe can’t easily be moved, with an empty house to themselves they’ll have all the time in the world to try cracking your code (or the door). In both cases, make sure when you place or install your safe, make sure to have it out of sight and somewhere clever.

Security Tips for Outside Your Home

Do everything you can to create the illusion that your home is not empty. Try these tips next time you head out of town:

Leave a Car Parked in the Driveway

It’s smart to leave one car in the driveway while you’re gone. Most people assume this would be burglar bait, but leaving a car in the driveway can actually stop burglars from approaching your home altogether because it creates the illusion that someone is home.

Stop Mail & Newspaper

Nothing says “we aren’t home” more than a pile of old newspapers at the end of your driveway. Make sure to have your mail held at the post office, and stop daily newspaper services. Additionally, if you have a package that is set to arrive while you are away, make sure to have a trusted neighbor retrieve it once it’s arrived.

Hide the Hide-a-Key!

Since this key is usually for emergencies, many homeowners often forget about their hide-a-key unless they need to use it. Burglars know to look for a key under a mat, flower pot, or rock near the front door. Make sure to give this hide-a-key to a neighbor, or store it safely in your home until you return.

Maintain Your Lawn

A jungle growing in the front yard may be a welcome sign for potential burglars. Keep your lawn trimmed and maintained while you’re away to avoid tipping off any burglars that you’re not home. If you’ll be gone for a long period of time, be sure to ask a neighbor or hire a lawn care company to keep it maintained for you.

Show Off The Security

It pays to advertise your security system. If you have a security system, make it obvious to would-be intruders. In a study done by UNC Charlotte, 60 percent of convicted burglary offenders said the presence of an alarm system would cause them to seek an alternative target altogether. Whether it’s a small yard sign, or a sticker on your entry door window, burglars will see that you are protected and may choose to go another route.

If you have an alarm system, give your alarm company a call and tell let them know when you’ll be out of town, and if anyone plans to come to your home while you’re away.

Keep Your Vacation on the Down Low

Be careful who you let know about your getaway. It’s good that some people know, but bad that others know.

Let a Neighbor Know

Instead of alerting the whole neighborhood on social media, give a trusted neighbor a call and let them know you’ll be gone. Kindly ask them to keep an eye on your home, and to report an suspicious activity. If you are close enough with the neighbor, give them a spare key and have them check on your home once a day to make sure everything is as it should be.

Be Aware of What You Share

Vacations are hard-earned and well worth sharing, but remember to save the social posts for after you’ve returned. While social media has become a useful resource, it has also caused people to overshare. Never announce your departure on public social media sites, or even private for that matter. It may be a struggle, but try posting the family beach photos when you return home from your trip to avoid unwanted intruders while you’re away.

Thinking it’s time to make security a priority? We’re here to help! Let the professionals at All-Weather guide you to the right choice for your entry door. Give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or (816) 673-2480 and we’ll answer all of your questions.

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.

General News

All-Weather Earns 2016 Angie’s List Super Service Award for 3rd Year in a Row!

March 9, 2017 Doug Bennett

Award reflects company’s consistently high level of customer service

Overland Park, KS remodeling contractor All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding has earned the home service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting another exemplary year of customer service to members of the local services marketplace and consumer review site in 2016. The firm also previously earned this award in 2015, 2014, and in 2009.

This achievement is particularly significant as Angie’s List has 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 exterior remodeling companies in Kansas City were able to do it.”

Super Service Award Requirements

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.

“We are especially proud of our employees and business associates, as winning this award even once showed amazing dedication, but 3 three times in a row demonstrates our team’s unwavering commitment to providing excellence in customer service” stated All Weather President and Owner Doug Bennett

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.

Quality Reviews

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.”

About Angie’s List

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.

For more professional advice on getting your home’s windows, doors, and siding ready for springtime, call All-Weather at (913) 648-9589 or schedule an appointment online today!

General News

4 Common Gutter Issues & How to Fix Them

February 22, 2017 Doug Bennett

Many homeowners overlook their gutters, assuming that they’re simply there to help divert excess rainwater. However, your home’s gutters may be your home’s most vital safety feature, protecting your roof, walls, and foundation against water damage.

We’re breaking down the importance of having your gutters inspected and maintained each season and some common problems associated with neglected gutters.

1. Find Gutter Leaks to Prevent Further Damage

The potential damage caused by a leaky gutter should never be underestimated. The stream of water making its way through a crack can cause many different forms of damage. These may include any of the following:

Rotting fascia boards (the board mounted just behind the gutter)
Attic flooding, which lead to mold and mildew
Bubbling, flaking, or chipped exterior paint
Foundation and siding damage
Damaged soffits and overhangs

Even a relatively minor looking leak can cause major damage over time, so it’s important to fix them when you find them. Leaks commonly occur along the seams where two lengths of gutter are connected. They may also happen anywhere along a gutter if leaves, or other debris, have caused it to back up allowing water to spill over the side.

This particular problem can be effectively minimized by having a professional install splash guards on your gutter or by having new gutters made with larger downspouts to help with overflowing water.

2. Ice Dams Do Major Damage

Ice dams can become a serious roofing issue if they aren’t repaired. Ice dams are caused when the temperature is hovering right around the freezing point and heat escapes up through the attic causing ice to melt. This water then runs down to the relatively colder edge of your roof, where it freezes again. Over time, this leads to the formation of a solid wall of ice called an ice dam.

Ice dams melt and create ponding water in the spring, which often finds its way into your home through weak points, leading to costly forms of water damage. An ice dam also represents a potential threat to your gutters because the weight of the dam can easily cause stress fractures, deformations, and other problems.

3. Seasonal Cleaning & Gutter Covers Can Prevent Gutter Damage

Do you often find things like tennis balls or gravel in your gutters? While this might seem weird and unusual, it’s actually not. Heavy rain can cause particles from your roof to deposit into your gutters and cause clogging issues. With the added leaves and sticks from surrounding trees on your property, gutters can get clogged with lots of gunk.

In order to avoid clogging your gutters, and causing an overflow of water, simply add gutter covers! These can be custom fabricated to perfectly fit your home’s gutters and keep debris and foreign objects from wreaking havoc on your home. Even better, these gutter covers can be built right into your existing gutters so you never have to worry about them falling off!

4. Stay On Top of Your Home’s Gutter Maintenance

The best way to prevent the types of gutter issues discussed above is to have your gutters professionally cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. This kind of attention will ensure that your gutters are able to do their job, no matter the season or situation.

For more professional advice on getting your home’s windows, doors, and siding ready for springtime, call All-Weather at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online today!

General News

What Damage Has Old Man Winter Done to Your Home? What to Look For & How to Fix It

February 17, 2017 Doug Bennett

Although we’re supposed to have six more weeks of winter according to Punxsutawney Phil, now is a good time to start taking a look around and seeing what type of damage the winter has done to your home. While the term is “spring cleaning,” it’s a good idea to start getting together a list of what you want to look for well before spring arrives.

To help you get ready for spring, we’ve put together a list of six signs that winter took a toll on your home.

1. Caulk Pulling Away from Windows

There are two primary reasons why this occurs:

1) Condensation between the back of the frame and the wall could make the frame swell and push against the brickwork.

2) Dry winter air could have shrunk the air-exposed part of the frame revealing a crack.

These gaps create a problem because they allow in cold air, rain and snow over time, as well as damaging the frame further. Fixing this can be done with either a spray insulation foam or by reapplying window caulk.

2. Wood Rot on Windows & Doors

Take a close look at the frames around your windows and doors (both internal and external) for wood rot that could have formed during the winter months. Due to wind, rain, hail and snow, the wood can become exposed to, and soak up, moisture. This causes the wood to become soft and damp, enabling wood rot. Aside from being an issue for structural stability, it is also a good way to invite termites and carpenter ants into your home.

Try the knock test. Tap all along the frame and compare the sounds at different points. If more than one-third of any piece is “soft” or “hollow” sounding, you should call a professional to assess the damage before the problem continues to spread.

3. Debris in Window Sills

Leaving debris in window sills can damage windows when you open them up in the spring. Bits of branches, leaves, rocks, and wind-blown debris can all cause damage to your windows if left alone. Bits and pieces can get caught in the tracks of the windows, making it necessary to remove the entire window in order to dig it out. Or, if you’re unaware that something is there and you attempt to force the window down, you can cause damage to the frame. Taking a bit of time now to clean off the sills and remove the debris will save you the hassle in the long run.

If you need to repair your windows due to damage like this, we at All-Weather know all about fixing them up.

4. Loose Shingles

Your roof takes quite a beating throughout the winter. Rain, snow, ice, hail, and wind all tear at it regularly during the colder months, and it’s important to perform regular check ups to see how it’s holding up. You want to keep an eye out for things like:

Missing shingles
Soft spots
Gaps in between shingles
Bubbles underneath the shingles

5. Clogged Gutters

When the winter winds blow, you have no idea what might end up in your gutters. From the usual leaves and pine needles s, to birds nests and random garbage, your gutters tend to collect assorted debris. While it can be messy, it’s also a timesaver in the end. If your gutters aren’t letting water wash down, it can build up in the gutters themselves or on your roof, depending on how bad the blockage is. With enough ice, your gutters could end up ripping completely off of your roof. Water left standing on your roof can get underneath your shingles and rot out parts of your roof.

6. Damaged Screens

The winter elements can all damage your screens over the winter, and it’s important to check them regularly. If they’re ripped or broken, you should get them replaced so that you can let in the cool spring breezes, but no pests, when spring arrives. At All-Weather, we would love to help out by making sure that your windows and screens are sturdy and secure, so you can enjoy the warmer weather. Whether it’s broken windows or screens, or it’s just time for a new look, we can do it all.

If you think you have windows, doors, or siding that needs to be repaired or replaced, call All-Weather at (913) 262-4380. We will work with you to keep the winter wind out, and your home looking its best.

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!

General News, Siding

The Benefits & Differences of Choosing Fiber Cement or LP SmartSide Siding for Your Home

October 31, 2016 Doug Bennett

When choosing between a fiber cement siding and LP smart siding, it’s important to know your facts. For most, once you understand the strengths of each option, the best choice for your home will be obvious. To assist you in this process, All-Weather is giving you all the details you’ll need to make an informed decision.

The Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding & ColorPlus Technology

According to This Old House, fiber cement siding “might be your best siding option.” The major benefit of choosing fiber cement siding (pictured above) is certainly its durability. It masquerades as wood or masonry, wears like concrete, is not susceptible to warping, sagging, or cracking, and is fire resistant, which means it can survive even the harshest of elements.

This type of siding features a smoother woodgrain, or you can choose an option that features a completely smooth look. Our James Hardie fiber cement siding uses ColorPlus Technology, which means multiple coats of paint are applied and cured in between each coat for a strong bond that will last for years. This ColorPlus Technology gives homeowners the best choices in long-lasting color and comes with a 15-year warranty that covers paint and labor, protecting against peeling, cracking, and chipping.

The Benefits of LP SmartSide Siding & Diamond Kote Finish

Another great choice in upscale siding is our LP SmartSide siding (pictured above), which is quickly making a name for itself due to its extreme impact-resistance, and beautiful appearance which has a texture similar to beautiful cedar wood. Choosing LP SmartSide siding gives homeowners the added benefits of its unique Smartguard technology, as well as the option to finish it using the innovative Diamond Kote finish, which is sure to provide years of maintenance-free beauty.

Diamond Kote Finishing is a pre-finish applied to LP SmartSide siding with over 30 colors to choose from and a custom color option. The Diamond Kote Finish comes backed by a 30-year, No-Fade Warranty from Wausau Supply Company which ensures the long-lasting beauty of your siding.

The Difference Between Factory Primed vs. Factory Finished

Both choices in upscale siding come with the option to be either primed or factory finished. Factory primed means your siding will be installed by us, and once we are finished, it’s already primed and ready for your painter to apply paint.

On the other hand, factory finished means your siding comes completely painted and factory finished for long-lasting color and easy installation. Simply put, if your siding is factory finished when we’re finished with the installation, you’re finished too! Both choices of siding also provide the option for vertical siding or a stucco panel, as well as simulated wood shake shingles for a more Cape Cod or Victorian look.

The Good News: We Have Both!

The good news is that as one of the few companies that offer both options, All-Weather is uniquely equipped to help you decide which option is right for you. Make plans to visit our showroom and chat with our knowledgeable staff. They look forward to serving you!

If you have further questions about choosing siding, please feel free to contact us online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380. We look forward to hearing from you!

General News, Siding, Uncategorized

Siding Showcase: Which Type of Siding Is Right for My Home?

August 15, 2016 Doug Bennett

Are you looking to add maintenance-free siding to your home? Perhaps your siding has suffered from years of storm damage and needs to be replaced, or you just want a new look for your home. In either case, it’s important for homeowners to understand the difference between various siding choices, and the pros and cons for each, in order to make an informed decision.

All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding is dedicated to offering the highest quality siding solutions in Kansas City, which is why we’re breaking down all you need to know about our three most popular types of siding, best applications for each, and their pros and cons.

*All costs are based off the Homewyse 2016 building cost calculator set at 200 sq. ft. of basic quality materials in Kansas City.*

Fiber Cement Siding

This environmentally-friendly siding option is durable, incombustible, and impervious to rot and insects. Fiber cement siding is available prefinished and in a variety of different colors and textures; it can even mimic wood, stone, or brick. We offer the highest-quality options for fiber cement siding, and its durability is unparalleled.

Installation of this product requires specialized tools and the proper safety equipment. Maintenance requires a thorough power wash at least once a year. We also suggest having your siding experts check the seams every few years to determine if they need re-caulking.

The cost of fiber cement siding ranges from $5-$11 per square foot, according to Homewyse.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding has improved tremendously since its inception. It’s generally more fade resistant and less susceptible to chips and cracks than other types of siding. However, it’s still important to choose a premium quality vinyl siding.

Vinyl siding comes in an extensive range of colors, although you won’t have as many choices as you would with paint. However, by choosing a siding that is permanently one color, you’ll never need to worry about gouges or scratches showing up as a different color underneath. Because of its versatility and range of colors, vinyl siding is a popular choice for many different styles of homes.

Maintenance is similar to that of fiber cement, which calls for a deep power washing each year to maintain a pristine look. It is also very important to check the seams of your vinyl siding and to re-caulk when necessary. Don’t forget proper insulation as well! A house with improperly insulated vinyl is like wearing a short-sleeved shirt in a blizzard, so it is crucial to make sure your vinyl siding is installed over adequate insulation.

Homewyse estimates the cost of vinyl siding at $4-$8 per square foot.

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding is perfect for homeowners who want the appearance of real wood, but are looking for a more environmentally sustainable way to get it. You also have options for this type of siding to resemble materials such as cedar, stucco, stone or masonry.

Not only is this choice of siding more environmentally friendly, it’s also less expensive because it doesn’t require the extensive process to construct. This material is extremely durable and also much lighter than wood, which means easier handling.

After installation, engineered wood is close to maintenance-free because it doesn’t require repainting or refinishing. Similar to any other type of siding, it may be necessary to wash once a year, but this maintenance is preventative for ensuring your siding stays in good condition.

According to Homewyse, engineered wood siding ranges from $5-$11 per square foot and beyond for higher quality, specialty products.

Other Siding Factors to Consider

There are other factors to consider when choosing a siding such as ease of installation, durability, energy efficiency, ability to resist water over time, and your home’s need for fire resistance. Another important question to ask is whether or not you love the siding’s aesthetics. This will be a big factor in the style of your home, so don’t take this decision lightly.

As Kansas City’s trusted siding expert, All-Weather has the knowledge, experience, and professionalism to ensure a job you’ll be happy with for years to come. With over 30 years in the business and over 40,000 satisfied customers, we can guarantee we’ve got your back!

If your home is crying out for new siding, it’s time to contact All-Weather. And for more in-depth information on the high-quality siding we provide, click the button to the right to download our FREE Guide to Siding.

General News, Uncategorized, Windows

How Foggy Windows Can Really Steam Your Wallet

July 26, 2016 Doug Bennett

Many homeowners think that the foggy appearance of their windows is simply a result of drastic temperature differences between the inside and outside of their house. While these temperature differences certainly can cause clouding on your glass windows, fogged windows in your home could be a much bigger problem than they appear. The window professionals at All-Weather are breaking down the issues causing your fogged windows and how you can fix them before it’s too late.

What Causes Fogged Windows?

When the windows in your home fog up, it’s usually a sign that the seals have failed. This is especially true when you see the fogginess occur between the panes of glass in double-paned windows. The fog is condensation, and it happens when the sealing material fails to keep moisture-carrying air out from between the two panes of glass.

As the seals continue to deteriorate, more and more air passes through the window causing them to be less efficient. You’ll spend more money on energy bills trying to keep the home at a comfortable temperature. If left untreated, permanent window damage can occur, which leads to costly repairs and replacements.

Helpful Hint: Failing seals aren’t necessarily caused by user-error or damage, and not all of your window seals will have the same lifespan. For example, window seals on the sunny side of a home deteriorate quicker than others, due to their constant exposure to the sun’s rays.

How We Can Fix It

At All-Weather we offer custom sized dual paned glass that we can install it into your existing windows. Another possibility would be to upgrade your window glass with energy saving low E glass, tinted glass, or even decorative or privacy glass. This can be done either as an in-home service or in our repair shop.

Replacing the glass is an easy fix most of the time, however if the frames are rotted, warped or bowed, you might be better off replacing the whole window. If there is wood rot on the sash, where the wood is attached to the glass, we may be able to order and install new sashes. Glass replacement is typically a third or half of the price of the cost for window replacement.

All-Weather: Your Kansas City Window Expert

If your home’s windows are leaving your vision hazy, don’t keep throwing money out the window! All-Weather can help clear the clouds and keep more money in your wallet. Whether you need a repair or a replacement, we can take care of it all. Our business is rooted in repairs, and we only offer the best products and service for our valued customers.

Contact us today at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online for the best windows in Kansas City… guaranteed! Don’t forget to keep up with our blog for more helpful tips and tricks for your home.

General News, Uncategorized, Windows

Finding the Perfect One-of-a-Kind Window for Your Unique Project

July 19, 2016 Doug Bennett

Are you looking for a special one-of-a-kind window for a one-of-a-kind project? You know, a tiny window you can tuck under the eaves for that new attic game room or a uniquely beautiful window to highlight your remodeled bath.

Luckily, All-Weather Window, Doors, & Siding has a wide variety of single windows from previous projects that can fit perfectly into your new project. Continue reading for ways you can use these extra-inventory windows and how they’ll save you a whole lot of money.

Unique Projects That Require Unique Windows

Thinking of adding a special touch to the kids playhouse? Or maybe even to the backyard chicken coop? (See above pictures) If you don’t want to spend much money, but still want a window that is functional and adds charm, considering our selection of single windows at All-Weather is the way to go.

Flexible Choices Means Flexible Pricing

Unfortunately, ordering just one window is often a very expensive, and lengthy, process. It can also be difficult to find unusual shapes or sizes at a price that won’t require a second mortgage! One way to keep your price down is to remain flexible. If you are willing to accept a window for a backyard project that is similar to your home’s windows, but not an exact match, then you can usually save some money.

The same goes when adding windows in a new or remodeled kitchen. Using a variety of windows in a range of sizes and shapes will not only save money, but you’ll end up with a beautiful kitchen that’s uniquely yours. The problem is finding a source that can provide the variety of quality, new windows you want at a price that won’t break the bank.

The Solution to Your Problem

If it’s a single purpose window you need, look no further than All-Weather’s showroom. We have a wide variety of high-quality, brand new windows for sale at a fraction of their original price. Some are typical windows in basic sizes and others are more unique in size and style. They are undamaged, just leftover from previous projects in which we had no use for them. Stop by our showroom today and see them for yourself!

We would love to help with your one-of-a-kind window needs. Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or stop by our showroom today and we would be happy to assist you!

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

Security Tips for Inside Your Home

Lock the Doors & Windows

Install a Jamb Brace

Put Lights and TVs on Timers

Lock Up Your Valuables

Security Tips for Outside Your Home

Leave a Car Parked in the Driveway

Stop Mail & Newspaper

Hide the Hide-a-Key!

Maintain Your Lawn

Show Off The Security

Keep Your Vacation on the Down Low

Let a Neighbor Know

Be Aware of What You Share

Thinking it’s time to make security a priority? We’re here to help! Let the professionals at All-Weather guide you to the right choice for your entry door. Give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or (816) 673-2480 and we’ll answer all of your questions.

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.

Award reflects company’s consistently high level of customer service

Super Service Award Requirements

Quality Reviews

About Angie’s List

For more professional advice on getting your home’s windows, doors, and siding ready for springtime, call All-Weather at (913) 648-9589 or schedule an appointment online today!

1. Find Gutter Leaks to Prevent Further Damage

2. Ice Dams Do Major Damage

3. Seasonal Cleaning & Gutter Covers Can Prevent Gutter Damage

4. Stay On Top of Your Home’s Gutter Maintenance

For more professional advice on getting your home’s windows, doors, and siding ready for springtime, call All-Weather at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online today!

1. Caulk Pulling Away from Windows

2. Wood Rot on Windows & Doors

3. Debris in Window Sills

4. Loose Shingles

5. Clogged Gutters

6. Damaged Screens

If you think you have windows, doors, or siding that needs to be repaired or replaced, call All-Weather at (913) 262-4380. We will work with you to keep the winter wind out, and your home looking its best.

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!

The Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding & ColorPlus Technology

The Benefits of LP SmartSide Siding & Diamond Kote Finish

The Difference Between Factory Primed vs. Factory Finished

The Good News: We Have Both!

If you have further questions about choosing siding, please feel free to contact us online or give us a call at (913) 262-4380. We look forward to hearing from you!

Fiber Cement Siding

Vinyl Siding

Engineered Wood Siding

Other Siding Factors to Consider

If your home is crying out for new siding, it’s time to contact All-Weather. And for more in-depth information on the high-quality siding we provide, click the button to the right to download our FREE Guide to Siding.

What Causes Fogged Windows?

How We Can Fix It

All-Weather: Your Kansas City Window Expert

Contact us today at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online for the best windows in Kansas City… guaranteed! Don’t forget to keep up with our blog for more helpful tips and tricks for your home.

Unique Projects That Require Unique Windows

Flexible Choices Means Flexible Pricing

The Solution to Your Problem

We would love to help with your one-of-a-kind window needs. Give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or stop by our showroom today and we would be happy to assist you!

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