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3 Causes of Broken or Cracked Windows & How to Fix Them

impact-break-broken-window-replacement-all-weather-kansas-cityThere’s nothing worse than sitting at your kitchen table having coffee one morning and noticing a small crack in your sunny kitchen window! Next, you ask yourself questions like: How’d that happen? and more importantly, how the heck am I going to fix that?

A broken or cracked window is an all-too common occurrence with a variety of different causes. However, regardless of what caused the damage, it needs to be addressed, and the sooner the better. Why? That cracked or broken window is not just an eyesore, it’s costing you money every day as it leaks precious energy from your home. So, what’s next? Let’s look at some of the causes & solutions:

Causes of Stress Cracks

stress-crack-window-replacement-all-weather-kansas-cityA stress crack in an insulated glass window is a crack that starts small, near the edge of the window, and often continues to grow and spread across the glass. Extreme fluctuations in temperature are the most common cause of small thermal stress cracks. For instance, when it’s a cold day and you crank your heat up drastically to stay warm.

This is the same for the outside temperature as well. If the outside temperature drops suddenly, your window can crack, much like a hot dish can crack if you fill it with cold water or how ice cubes crackle when you drop them in warmer water. A stress crack can also occur from windows falling or slamming them shut, so be gentle.

Causes of Impact Breaks

impact-break-window-broken-all-weather-kansas-cityAn impact break is just what it sounds like — a broken window caused by a neighborhood ballgame hit gone astray, a rock propelled by a weed eater or a lawn mower, or a golf swing gone wrong if you live on a golf course. These are usually characterized and easily identifiable due to the starburst pattern that radiates outward from the point of impact.

Important Safety Note: If you experience an impact break in your home, clean up any glass that may be on your floor, but DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE REMAINING BROKEN GLASS YOURSELF. Please, leave this to a professional to avoid any injuries.

Causes of Pressure Cracks

pella-pressure-stress-crack-window-replacement-kansas-city-all-weatherPressure cracks are less common and always seem to come out of nowhere. Most commonly seen in insulated glass, or double-paned windows, pressure cracks can be caused by drastic pressure system changes in the weather or when windows are installed at too high or too low of an elevation level. These cracks tend to curve in the shape of an hourglass and will most likely result in a complete window replacement.

How to Fix Your Broken or Cracked Window

While replacing the glass can work in some situations, it’s only a temporary fix for most. To ensure these issues are completely resolved and won’t happen again, we suggest having a certified professional replace the window altogether. Don’t worry! While this solution may seem like the pricier option, leaving this problem unresolved will wind up costing you much more in energy bills as those cracks leave a way for air to come and go as it pleases.

That small crack is only going to get worse over time, so don’t wait any longer! Give the experts at All-Weather a call at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online today. For more helpful homeowner information, check out our blog!

 

Top 3 Things to Consider Before Window Replacement

Window replacement is a big deal. First of all, no matter who you go with, it’s a big investment. Secondly, it’s going to be permanent. Once they are installed, you will have them for as long as you live in that home. That could be decades, but most likely, at the very least, years. So it’s worth spending a little extra time and research before deciding who will install them and what kind of windows you want installed. The three biggest considerations can be summarized as when, what, and who.

1. When Is the Best Time of Year for Window Installation in Kansas City?

Most people think  of window replacement too late. When the weather starts to get cool and the winds start pushing that cold air through the leaky windows into their homes, they think, “Oh, yeah. These windows are terrible. We should have them replaced.” We can definitely replace windows in the winter, but we can’t keep all the cold air out. The best time to have windows installed is late spring and early fall when temperatures in Kansas City are the most moderate. 

It is worth remembering that in addition to weather conditions, the selection of materials and availability, will also play a role in scheduling, so don’t put it off if you want it done in a timely manner. Spring and fall are the busiest times for window replacement companies because the weather is ideal. 

2. What Kind of Windows Should I Choose? 

Once the decision has been made to replace your windows, you have to decide what kind of windows you want. There are two important qualities to look for:

Energy Efficiency
One of the most important features of a window is its energy efficiency. Energy-efficient windows guarantee less heat loss, which means lower heating bills. The heat transfer coefficient (U-value) determines the thermal insulation of a window –  the lower it is, the more thermally insulating the window, so look for a low U-value when comparing.

Acoustic Insulation
The second thing you should consider when choosing windows is acoustic insulation. Your walls and windows are the barrier between you and the outside world with all of its wind-blowing, horn-honking, and dog barking revelry. By choosing good quality products, you can muffle the sounds coming from the outside. Soundproofing is determined by the Sound Transmission Coefficient (STC) scale, where the higher the STC, the better the unit is at blocking sound, so look for a high STC when comparing.

3. Which Company Should I Choose for Window Installation?

You can buy the best and most expensive windows on the market, but if the installation  company doesn’t do the job right, your windows won’t give you what you paid for. In fact, the company you hire is more important than the type of window you buy, so do your homework and choose very carefully. Price alone is not the only thing to consider. Look at customer testimonials, reviews online, and company guarantees/warranties. Also look at how long have they been in business and how long they have been in the market? In addition, you can ask to see the company’s certificates to make sure they are licensed, insured, and up to date. 

If you’re looking for the right window installation company in Kansas City Metro, you don’t have to look any further than All-Weather Windows, Doors, and Siding. We have been installing windows in the Kansas City area for over 30 years and we have over 40,000 satisfied customers.

Call us at (913) 648-9589 or visit our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park

Top 3 Mistakes Homeowners Make with Outdoor Holiday Decorating

Decorating tor the holidays can be fun. Most people have indoor decorating down pretty well. But when it comes to outdoor decorating, things can get a bit trickier. To make matters worse, your decor is on display for the whole world to see, not just visitors you invite into your home. Make sure you’re not guilty of these top three outdoor decorating mistakes:

Not Considering the Entire Area

If you hang a wreath on your front door and call it good, you’re missing an opportunity to create an impressive holiday welcome. Hang that wreath, but step back and take a wide-angle view of your entrance…the whole entrance, not just your door. Consider flanking the door with urns filled with greenery and festive bows. Frame your door with a lighted garland to add a warm glow at night. Hang a sign on the wall or place one in the yard. Prop an old sled up in the corner. Keep the colors and style fairly consistent. Consider a theme – Victorian, rustic, bright, woodsy, etc. If you need ideas, simply troll on Pinterest. You’d be surprised how easy it is to create an HGTV-worthy design that would make a perfect backdrop for holiday photos.

Using the Wrong Size for Outdoor Decorations

Amateur decorators often don’t consider the size of the space when decorating. If you have a larger-than-normal entryway, your wreaths, garland, urns, and other decorations need to fill the space. Otherwise, they look puny and wimpy. If you need to fill a large space, think about adding a charming bench with pillows, a sleigh filled with faux presents, an oversized lantern, or lighted trees. Just make sure everything is secured or weighted so it doesn’t blow away in strong winter winds.

Forgetting about Safety

Sometimes, in an effort to make everything look as festive as possible, extension cords are draped, dragged, tucked, and secured in ways that can cause both tripping and fire hazards. Make sure walkways are clear and only extension cords rated for outdoor use are used. Also, make sure electrical cords are not in water or snow. Never use a nail, tack, or staple to hold an extension cord in place!

Happy Holidays from All-Weather! Let us know how we can help you create the entryway of your dreams with new windows, doors, or siding. Call us at (913) 648-9589 or visit our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park.

Window Replacement – Pros and Cons of Total or Partial Home Installation

You know your windows are old and need to be replaced. It’s a big investment, so you want to make sure you do it right. But you have questions. Should I bite the bullet and replace them all? Can I just replace a few windows? Are there drawbacks to piece-mealing the project? Can I afford to replace all of my windows at once?  So many questions. That’s why All-Weather is here. We’ll answer those questions and give you an idea of your options so you can make the best decision for your home and your budget. 

Signs You Need to Replace Your Windows

Typically, you won’t need to replace your windows for 20-30 years, depending on the quality and installation of the original windows. But there are certain scenarios that may require you to replace them sooner:

  • A windowpane has been cracked
  • The frame around the interior or exterior is damaged
  • You feel a draft around your window
  • Your windows leak
  • There’s condensation between the panes
  • House renovations inspired a differently-shaped window design
  • Your windows aren’t properly insulated
  • Your windows weren’t properly installed

Is Window Replacement an All-or-Nothing Deal?

No. You have several options. You can replace every window in your home at once, replace a full floor, or replace a single window. There are pros and cons to replacing your windows one at a time, and the decision of how to proceed really comes down to you, your preferences, and your budget.

Pros of Whole-Home Window Replacement

  • You’ll usually save money by replacing all of your windows at once because discounts are provided to bulk purchases 
  • You only have a single disruption to your life for installation 
  • You can be assured that all of your windows and frames will match exactly for the best curb appeal. (Sometimes, after a few years, manufacturers can change their products.)

Cons of Whole-Home Window Replacement

  • It’s more expensive to do all at once
  • You will have window projects going on in every room

If you’re a Kansas City Metro resident and you’re experiencing window woes, don’t hesitate to contact All-Weather Windows, Doors, and Siding. We can provide some quotes and help you decide which approach is best for you. We also offer convenient financing options to help with the budget. 

Call us today at (913) 648-9589 or visit our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park.

4-Step Guide to Check and Seal Drafty Windows

As windows age, sun, wind, and weather temperature changes take their toll on the exterior. This can cause caulk to dry and crack which allows air and moisture into your home. Small cracks and crevices can become larger over time and your home becomes less and less cozy and energy efficient. So, how can you be sure that your windows are as energy-efficient as you think they are, and how can you reseal them if they aren’t? Here’s a guide that will walk you through the process of finding and sealing window leaks: 

How to Check and Seal Your Windows in 4 Steps

Gather these materials:

  • Candle or lighter  
  • Caulk softener
  • Putty knife
  • Towel or soft rag
  • Caulk gun
  • Tube of caulk

Step 1. Conduct a Flame Test to Find the Leaks

Pick a windy day and hold a lighter near the window seams. If the flame bends, it means there is a draft that is pulling it in that direction. Repeat this test with all of your windows and note which ones are leaking. Always be careful with an open flame.

Step 2. Inspect the Caulk around Your Windows

Exterior caulk tends to dry out in the summer heat and can create gaps and cracks that let in water and air. It’s a good idea to check all of your windows, even the ones that weren’t drafty, to see if the interior or exterior caulk (or both) are showing signs of degradation. Make a note of which windows need to be repaired.

Step 3. Remove Old Caulk

Before you can re-caulk the windows, you will need to remove the old caulk to ensure a good seal. Apply caulk softener to old caulking and let it soak for two hours. Using a putty knife, remove any loose caulk from the frame, the interior, and the exterior of your window. Creating a clean area to work with will eliminate the chance of new caulking coming loose and flaking off with older layers.

Step 4. Apply New Caulk

Using a towel or soft rag, clean the surface where you’ve removed the old caulk. You’ll want a dust-free surface for the new caulk to adhere. Cut the tip of the caulking tube at a 45-degree angle. Insert the tube into a caulking gun and gently apply pressure. Move the gun along the seams in a smooth motion. If you need to fill a larger gap, move more slowly to ensure the caulking fills the space adequately. Wet your finger and smooth out the caulk to give a clean, finished look. Let the caulk dry as directed in the instructions. 

TIP: Use a touch of liquid dish soap in the water before you dip your finger in to smooth the caulk. It will keep the caulk from sticking to your skin and make your finger glide more smoothly along the bead of caulk. 

4 Signs Your Home Needs Window Replacement

After inspecting your windows, you may wonder if it’s time to replace them. Here are some signs that your windows need to be replaced:

  • Your windows are 20 years or older
  • Your window panes or frames are cracked or damaged
  • Your window insulation is minimal or nonexistent
  • Your window is still drafty after replacing the caulk

Improve Your Windows with Help from All-Weather

At All-Weather, we’re window experts. We have been helping homeowners replace their windows for over 30 years and we’re proud of our reputation for excellence. We offer quality Wincore and Andersen windows. We are also experienced Andersen Window installers so you know we’ll do it right.

Call us at (913) 648-9589 for any window, door, or siding help. Or visit our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park to see our products up close. We’ll be happy to give you a free estimate.

4 Types of Windows for Maximum Daylight

Let the sun shine in! If you love light in your home, the kind of windows you choose will be very important to you. All windows let light into your home, but some styles do a better job than others. Natural daylight can be a total game-changer in how a room looks and feels, and even how big it seems. Here are four of the best replacement windows that allow you to make the most of nature’s gift:

1. Picture Windows

Picture windows are aptly named. When you look through them there are no grilles, or sashes to obstruct the view. It seems like you are looking at a picture. Floor-to-ceiling picture windows give you the best view and let in plenty of sunlight creating a bright, airy room. The only drawback is that they don’t open. Sometimes it makes sense to flank them with windows that do open if you’d like fresh air circulation in that room. 

2. Horizontal Sliding Windows

Sliding windows also allow a lot of light into a room. They operate much like a sliding glass door sliding from side to side. This allows them to be opened so you can enjoy a breeze when you want. There is only the center frame where the two sides meet to disrupt the view. They aren’t usually as large as picture windows, but do a good job of letting plenty of light into the room. 

3. Bay and Bow Windows

For the best field of view, you can’t beat bay or bow windows. If you have an amazing view, these large, elegant windows are the way to go. They create a wide viewing area and extend past the exterior wall so the view is extended even further. They also increase the living/floor space in a room because they extend past the wall. Many times you can incorporate a cozy window seat as well. They make your room look and feel bigger. Bay windows typically extend further out than bow windows, but both are beautiful. 

4. Casement Windows

Casement windows swing open rather than sliding up and down like a double hung window or horizontally like a slider window. Because they don’t have the sliding function of those styles, they are usually all glass without the center sash or grilles to obstruct the view. This window style allows an unobstructed view and cross ventilation as well. 

NOTE: When choosing windows for the view, be careful to note where the sun rises and sets. At certain times of the day, it can become an annoyance and shades or curtains will be necessary to keep it from blinding you.

Call us today at (913) 648-9589 or visit our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Overland Park.

7 Window Safety Tips That Could Potentially Save Your Life

According to the Safe Kids Worldwide 2015 Report to the Nation, “about eight children under age 5 die each year from falling out a window, and more than 3,300 are injured seriously enough to go to the hospital.” Before a preventable tragedy occurs on your watch, please consider these window safety tips from the professionals at All-Weather.

child-looking-out-window-safety-all-weather-kc

1. Keep Your Windows Locked

If there are children, or vulnerable adults, living in your house, it is important to keep windows closed and locked unless you are in the same room and very careful.  If you have locks that don’t work or are easy to unlock, consider replacing or updating them.

Have windows that need fixing? Trust the Kansas City window experts at All-Weather

2. A Tip for Double-Hung Windows

If you have a double-hung window on an upper floor, open the top sash if you need ventilation and leave the bottom sash closed. This way you can still allow a cool breeze into your home, without risking the safety of those living in it.

Related Read: Windows 101: 5 Types of Windows and Their Pros & Cons

3. Don’t Place Furniture Near Windows

Children are known for climbing all over your furniture, and by placing that furniture near windows, you are encouraging them to explore potentially dangerous aspects of your home like the windows. Giving children, or even pets, the ability to reach windows may lead to injury or worse.

4. Don’t Rely on Your Screens.

Screens keep bugs out, but won’t keep children in. Don’t rely heavily on a window screen to keep your child safe, as these can tear and allow things to fall through. Additionally, the weight of a small child can push the entire screen out of the frame.

Related Read: Tips to Keep Small Critters from Destroying Your Screens

5. Consider Installing ASTM Approved Hardware

If you have children, consider installing ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) approved hardware. Hardware approved by the ASTM only allows windows to open a few inches, keeping your children safe and your mind at ease.

6. Windows Painted Shut? Fix Them ASAP

Windows that are painted shut not only keep you from enjoying a breeze in your home, they can also be an extremely dangerous fire hazard. This is common in a lot of older homes, so it is important to check your windows and make sure they are all able to open in case of a fire.

7. Avoid a Break-In

Window safety will ward off burglars. Being aware of these window safety tips will prevent burglars from breaking into your home. Windows are an easy access point for burglars and other unwanted guests, and if your windows are broken, unlocked, or left open, you are essentially inviting them in.

Related Read: Security 101: The Safest Locks for Your Home

 

We put your family’s safety first. If you are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, call the professionals at All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding for all of your window needs at (913) 262-4380.

 

Is Spring Time the Right Time to Replace Windows?

Now that the warmer weather is here, you may be wondering if you should replace your old windows. Here are a few reasons from our experts on why this is a great time to get those new windows installed in your home.

Check out our Winter Window Sale going on now!

Avoid Extreme Hot and Cold Weather

Replacing windows in the winter, or waiting until the summer, means letting in chilly drafts in the winter or letting out cool air conditioned air in the summer. This can drive up your heating and air conditioning bills. Mid to late spring is a great time to install new windows. 

Materials Will Seal Better

In cold weather, caulk can split or crack after it is applied. Very hot weather is not much better. Ideally, you should caulk between 40 degrees and 90 degrees fahrenheit. This will give you better seals that last much longer. Your house will also be more energy efficient heading into the hot summer months. 

Your New Windows Will Function Amazingly Well

Spring means taking advantage of opening windows in your house. Old windows are hard to open and close, have broken or non-working hardware, or just don’t work anymore. New windows function smoothly exactly when you want to use them the most! Not sure what windows are right for you?

Download our Quick Guide that answers your questions and improves your window buying experience. 

Take Pride In How Your Home is Transformed

True, new windows can make your house look fantastic any time of year. However, warmer weather is a great time to show off your windows, and if you are looking to sell your house, it will add tremendous curb appeal. 


If you have any questions or would like to talk to one of our experts about new windows, and what is right for you, give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or request an appointment online!

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

Entry Door Kansas City-all-weatherSick 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.

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

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

Front Door Design KCPrice 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!

Related Read: Cost vs. Value Report: How A New Entry Door Can Save You Money in 2017

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!

3 Causes of Broken or Cracked Windows & How to Fix Them

impact-break-broken-window-replacement-all-weather-kansas-cityThere’s nothing worse than sitting at your kitchen table having coffee one morning and noticing a small crack in your sunny kitchen window! Next, you ask yourself questions like: How’d that happen? and more importantly, how the heck am I going to fix that?

A broken or cracked window is an all-too common occurrence with a variety of different causes. However, regardless of what caused the damage, it needs to be addressed, and the sooner the better. Why? That cracked or broken window is not just an eyesore, it’s costing you money every day as it leaks precious energy from your home. So, what’s next? Let’s look at some of the causes & solutions:

Causes of Stress Cracks

stress-crack-window-replacement-all-weather-kansas-cityA stress crack in an insulated glass window is a crack that starts small, near the edge of the window, and often continues to grow and spread across the glass. Extreme fluctuations in temperature are the most common cause of small thermal stress cracks. For instance, when it’s a cold day and you crank your heat up drastically to stay warm.

This is the same for the outside temperature as well. If the outside temperature drops suddenly, your window can crack, much like a hot dish can crack if you fill it with cold water or how ice cubes crackle when you drop them in warmer water. A stress crack can also occur from windows falling or slamming them shut, so be gentle.

Causes of Impact Breaks

impact-break-window-broken-all-weather-kansas-cityAn impact break is just what it sounds like — a broken window caused by a neighborhood ballgame hit gone astray, a rock propelled by a weed eater or a lawn mower, or a golf swing gone wrong if you live on a golf course. These are usually characterized and easily identifiable due to the starburst pattern that radiates outward from the point of impact.

Important Safety Note: If you experience an impact break in your home, clean up any glass that may be on your floor, but DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE REMAINING BROKEN GLASS YOURSELF. Please, leave this to a professional to avoid any injuries.

Causes of Pressure Cracks

pella-pressure-stress-crack-window-replacement-kansas-city-all-weatherPressure cracks are less common and always seem to come out of nowhere. Most commonly seen in insulated glass, or double-paned windows, pressure cracks can be caused by drastic pressure system changes in the weather or when windows are installed at too high or too low of an elevation level. These cracks tend to curve in the shape of an hourglass and will most likely result in a complete window replacement.

How to Fix Your Broken or Cracked Window

While replacing the glass can work in some situations, it’s only a temporary fix for most. To ensure these issues are completely resolved and won’t happen again, we suggest having a certified professional replace the window altogether. Don’t worry! While this solution may seem like the pricier option, leaving this problem unresolved will wind up costing you much more in energy bills as those cracks leave a way for air to come and go as it pleases.

That small crack is only going to get worse over time, so don’t wait any longer! Give the experts at All-Weather a call at (913) 262-4380 or schedule an appointment online today. For more helpful homeowner information, check out our blog!

 

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