If you’re in the market for replacement windows in Kansas City, you no doubt have a lot of questions. One of those is probably, “Which kind of window frame is best – wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass?” At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we’re used to getting these kinds of questions. There is no simple answer because it changes for each homeowner. We dove a little deeper into the differences between our Andersen replacement window frames and summarized it below. Hopefully, this will help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.

6 Types of Window Frames Compared

Solid Wood

It’s been at the core of Andersen products for over 100 years. Wood provides strength and rigidity in both frames and sashes. Wood is mostly chosen for its beauty because it can be stained to match existing interior woodwork. Many homeowners prefer the natural look of wood and its overall thermal performance is hard to beat.

Pros & Cons – Great insulator against heat and cold, but it’s costly, requires maintenance, and is subject to swelling and contracting.

Aluminum

Aluminum provides a virtually maintenance-free exterior that resists the elements.It is strong, affordable, and low-maintenance, but conducts heat and cold, so it isn’t the most energy-efficient frame. It is also not the most aesthetically pleasing material for frames.

Pros & Cons – Strong, affordable, low-maintenance, but not as energy efficient or attractive as others.

Vinyl

Vinyl on its own provides an excellent low-maintenance exterior for any window and is available in a wide variety of colors. Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. See below.

Pros & Cons – Affordable and low-maintenance, but color may fade over time.

Clad

The most expensive type, with wood frames inside and aluminum or vinyl shell on the outside; wood frame helps minimize the transfer of heat and cold, while the exterior shell makes the window low-maintenance.

Pros & Cons – Expensive, but very low maintenance and energy efficient.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a tough, weather-resistant material. They are maintenance free and can be combined with beautiful wood interior frames.

Pros & Cons – durable, maintenance free, lightweight, energy efficient.

Composites

Composites are new materials created to combine the best attributes of several materials. Composite windows are stronger and more durable than wood and vinyl, and can be painted to match a home’s decor.The price falls between wood and vinyl. Andersen’s Fibrex® composite window frames are two times as strong as vinyl, perform better when exposed to extreme temperatures and deliver exteriors that won’t fade, flake, blister or peel.

Pros & Cons – moderate price, extremely strong and durable, low maintenance, energy efficient, can be painted

We know it’s a lot of information, so start by prioritizing the benefits that you value the most. This will help you narrow down the field and make a final decision easier. If you have any questions or want to talk to an expert about replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online.

Some home improvements make your home look better. Some are more for maintenance, and others are to increase energy efficiency, add living areas, or improve your lifestyle. From mundane to fun, summer is the best time for home improvements. Take a look at this list and see if there are any to-dos that you can get done. 

9 Home Improvements and Repairs to Make This Summer

1. Power Wash

There’s nothing uglier than a home with mildew on the side of it. It’s usually on the north side where the sun doesn’t shine for long. But a quick hit with a power washer and some mildew removing detergent will have your home looking good as new. Power washers are also great for removing ground in grime from sidewalks, patios, driveways, porches, and foundations too. 

2. Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a smart move for comfort, energy savings and lowering the energy bill. Installing ceiling fans allows you to keep the air conditioner turned up a few extra degrees without feeling warmer. It’s the wind chill effect – it is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by the effects of wind and cold. As the “wind” (moving air from the fan blades) increases, the body is cooled at a faster rate causing the skin temperature to drop. 

3. Clean the Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause major problems with roof leaks, mold, and even structural damage if left for too long. Gutters should be cleaned twice a year. Clear large debris such as leaves and branches out and then hose gutters down to get rid of dirt and smaller debris like grit from shingles. Make sure to check the downspout for clogs and inspect the gutters for cracks, sags, or signs of rust. If gutters are in bad shape, you may need to replace them so they don’t cause damage to your home.

4. Build a Deck/Patio

Adding a deck or patio is one of the bigger projects, but definitely one of the more exciting changes you can make. It increases your home’s space, value, and enjoyment. You can spend more time together with family and friends and get outside and enjoy the season. 

5. Conduct a Home Energy Audit

There are companies who perform professional energy audits and they can tell you exactly where your home’s energy inefficiencies lie. But you can also do your own home energy audit to make it more comfortable or energy efficient. Simple things such as sealing leaks around drafty windows and doors, installing additional insulation (especially in the attic), and inspecting ductwork for leaks and sealing them will all help your home feel better and waste less energy. Don’t forget to change the furnace filter!

6. Inspect the Roof

The average lifespan of a roof is about 20 years. That doesn’t mean all roofs will last that long. Look for any broken or cracked shingles, any areas that look weathered or curled on the edges. If you experience standing water every time it rains, or you’ve noticed any leaks or water stains on your ceiling, it’s best to call a professional inspector. Catching roof problems early can prevent costly repairs later on.

7. Replace Old Drafty Windows

This is another job that’s on the bigger side and you’ll have to hire professionals to do it, but it will not only make your home look better and feel better, but it will raise the value of your home as well. Homeowners usually know when they need to replace their windows and summer is the best time to do it. New windows will make your home more energy efficient and lower energy bills. Here are the top three things to consider before buying windows.

8. Inspect Your Home’s Exterior 

Take some time to walk around your home and inspect the exterior walls. If you notice any peeling paint, cracks, sagging panels, mold growth, small holes, or any other damage to the walls or siding. Catching these problems early will help prevent wood rot (especially around windows) which can be costly to repair before painting. You may need to repaint, or you may decide to upgrade to new siding. Doing either will maintain your home’s curb appeal and resale value. Adding siding will also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Here are some siding tips.

9. Install New Doors

Entry doors are the gateways to your home and create a lasting first impression of your most important investment. An eye-catching front door will enhance your home’s perceived value. You will have a hard time finding a more beautiful investment in your home and return on your money. Plus, they will make your home more energy efficient. Here are 11 things you won’t get when you buy a door from a big box store.

All-Weather Windows, Doors, and Siding can help with quite a few of these home improvement projects. You can trust us for quality products and excellent installation. For over 30 years, we have served the KC metro area and now have a customer base of over 40,000 satisfied customers. We are proud of the reputation for quality we have built over the last three decades and we’d love to help you make your home more beautiful and energy efficient.

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.

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we know you want quality windows and you don’t want to pay more than you should. Since most homeowners only purchase replacement windows once or twice in a lifetime, it’s hard to know what they should cost. That’s why we put together these tips on buying the best replacement windows. If someone else tries to sell you something you don’t need, you’ll be armed with the information you need to make a smart decision.

There are basically three areas where you can spend erroneously thinking you need that feature or option, when in reality, it won’t provide much benefit. Take them all into consideration when researching and getting quotes and you’ll know how to avoid paying more for something you don’t really need.

1. Price Does Not Equal Performance

You may be inclined to think that a more expensive window is obviously a better window. That is not always the case. In an independent study of casement windows, the least expensive window scored highest. It all depends on the materials and the statistics. When comparing, look at energy ratings, materials (vinyl, wood, aluminum, composite), and warranties. All will affect your satisfaction level after the purchase. Decide which features are important to you and whether they are worth the extra cost difference.

2. Don’t Pay for More Energy Savings Than You Need

Window manufacturers make windows that can withstand some pretty extreme temperatures. However, if you live in the Kansas City area, do you really need windows that are rated for a much colder climate? Avoid overkill and get the windows that will deliver enough energy efficiency, but not way too much. The only place you’ll notice the difference is in your wallet. The NFRC label helps you compare between energy-efficient windows by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories. While the ENERGY STAR label tells you that a product is energy-efficient, the NFRC helps you compare between energy-efficient products by giving you independent ratings in several energy performance categories.

3. Watch Out for Options & Upgrades

It’s easy to overspend on options. Upgrades can easily add 50% or more to the base cost of a window. If you add features, make sure to focus on the features that add value. Low-E coatings improve efficiency, but triple glazing probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate. Double-hung window sashes (tilt in make cleaning easier), full screens, finer meshed screens, and hardware upgrades will quickly add up, so be careful.  

Other Ways to Save on Replacement Windows

Keep More Money in Your Pocket with Pocket Replacement Windows

If your existing frames and sills are in good shape, you may be a good candidate for pocket replacement windows. Also known as partial replacement windows, these windows are slightly smaller and fit into the existing frames. You save money on materials and labor. Otherwise, you’ll need full-replacement windows.

Finding an Installer

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and is the most recognized and most used brand in the window industry. Andersen replacement windows are simply the best replacement windows in Kansas City that we have found.

Even the best windows won’t deliver the look or comfort you expect if they’re installed improperly. Many major window manufacturers train and certify installers for their specific products. At All-Weather, we are proud to be an Andersen Window Circle of Excellence dealer. You can have extra confidence that when we install your windows, we do it exactly the way the manufacturer recommends so the window provides superior performance for years to come. Additionally, using the same contractor for purchase and installation can minimize the chances of problems arising later.

If you’re looking into replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online and we’ll be happy to help you make this important decision with confidence.

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we’ve keep quality and innovation in mind for the past 30 years. That’s why we specialize in Andersen Windows. So whether you’re looking for economy or variety, energy efficiency or architectural authenticity, hi-tech materials or low-maintenance design, you can count on Andersen for quality craftsmanship and reliable performance.

Check out why we consistently recommend Andersen Windows in Kansas City over any other window provider:

Andersen Windows Are Exclusively Strong

Are you looking for material that’s strong and durable? Look at Andersen’s Fibrex. Fibrex is a sustainable, green building material with 40% pre-consumer reclaimed wood fiber by weight, and twice the strength of vinyl that blocks thermal transfer nearly 700 times better than aluminum for improved overall energy efficiency. Because of its great thermal performance, we can even offer Fibrex windows with dark colors like black and dark bronze without the worry of heat damage to the frames.

Andersen Offers Beautiful and Custom Real Wood Interiors

Because a large portion of window manufacturers focus purely on low cost and low maintenance, you have limited choices when it comes to complementing your interior. Your options are typically an imitation veneer that looks like wood-grain contact paper and only comes in one or two colors that are difficult to match with your current decor. Ugh! 

Andersen’s Replacement choices fix this problem by offering custom stained or painted windows that coordinate perfectly with your home with unlimited colors and options to complement virtually any architectural style. This means you won’t have to sacrifice the look you love for convenience or price.

Looking for Low Maintenance Windows? Try Andersen’s Perma Shield Clad Exteriors

Did you know other manufacturers use formed aluminum to cover the wood, which can leak and cause wood rot? Not Andersen. Andersen have unique clads for your window that will ensure a lifetime of protection from the elements and freedom from wood rot. Andersen’s Perma Shield clad exteriors create a tough, protective shell that resists dents, repels water by completely sealing out moisture, and won’t peel, flake, blister or corrode. 

Andersen Windows Are Award Winning

With all of these advantages, it’s no wonder that Andersen® 400 Series windows have been named a Best Buy for Replacement Windows by Consumers Digest. Windows were judged on performance ratings, quality of construction and materials, ease of operation, and warranty.

Andersen TruScene Window Screens Are Clearly Better

We buy windows because they provide light and a way to see outside. So why ruin that with a screen that dulls the light and obscures the view? Andersen’s TruScene screens provide more than 50% greater clarity than conventional aluminum screens, letting in more fresh air and sunlight while keeping out small insects.

We are also proud to be Kansas City’s premier “KC Metro” Andersen Circle of Excellence showroom displaying the finest Andersen windows and patio doors. Looking to install new windows? Call us at (913) 648-9589 or schedule an appointment online.

The energy performance of all ENERGY STAR qualified windows must be independently tested, certified, and verified according to test procedures established by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). NFRC is a third-party non-profit organization that sponsors certified rating and labeling to help consumers compare the performance of windows, doors, and skylights. Once rated by this third party, ENERGY STAR helps consumers to find NFRC-certified products with superior energy performance.

NFRC Rates Performance in Five Categories

The NFRC label can be found on all ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors, and skylights and rates performance in five categories: U-Factor, solar heat gain coefficient, air leakage, visible transmittance, and condensation resistance. ENERGY STAR qualification is based on U-factor and SHGC ratings only:

U-factor

Sometimes also referred to as U-value, U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer and tells you how well the window insulates. U-factor values generally range from 0.20 to 1.20 and are measured in Btu/h. ft² °F. The lower the U-factor, the better the window insulates.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient  (SHGC)

The SHGC is the amount of solar radiation admitted through a window. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower the number, the better the window is at blocking unwanted heat from the sun. In warm climates, you’ll want the lowest number you can find; in cold areas, a higher number is better.

Energy Efficient Andersen Window Glass Options

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and is the most recognized and most used brand in the window industry. Andersen replacement windows are simply the best replacement windows in Kansas City that we have found.

Andersen offers one of the industry’s widest arrays of glass options, enabling you to find the right choice for your home.

Low-E4® SmartSun™ Glass Offers our best overall thermal performance. It gives you the benefits of Low-E4® glass, plus it helps shield your home from the sun’s heat and filters out 95% of harmful UV rays while letting sunlight shine through.

Low-E4® Glass Offers outstanding thermal performance for climates where both heating and cooling costs are a concern. Up to 56% more energy efficient than ordinary dual-pane glass.

Low-E4® Sun Glass Offers outstanding thermal performance in southern climates where less solar heat gain is desired. It’s tinted for maximum protection from the effects of intense sunlight while providing all the benefits of Low-E4® glass.

Dual Pane Glass Dual-pane glass is available for projects where codes allow its use. See local code official for requirements in your area.

If you’re ready to add Andersen energy efficient windows to your Kansas City home, give All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding a call at (913) 262-4380 and we’ll help you choose the right Andersen windows for your home.

If you’re in the market for replacement windows in Kansas City, you no doubt have a lot of questions. One of those is probably, “Which kind of window frame is best – wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass?” At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we’re used to getting these kinds of questions. There is no simple answer because it changes for each homeowner. We dove a little deeper into the differences between our Andersen replacement window frames and summarized it below. Hopefully, this will help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.

6 Types of Window Frames Compare

1. Solid Wood: It’s been at the core of Andersen products for over 100 years. Wood provides strength and rigidity in both frames and sashes. Wood is mostly chosen for its beauty because it can be stained to match existing interior woodwork. Many homeowners prefer the natural look of wood and its overall thermal performance is hard to beat.

Pros & Cons – Great insulator against heat and cold, but it’s costly, requires maintenance, and is subject to swelling and contracting.

2. Aluminum: Aluminum provides a virtually maintenance-free exterior that resists the elements.It is strong, affordable, and low-maintenance, but conducts heat and cold, so it isn’t the most energy-efficient frame. It is also not the most aesthetically pleasing material for frames.

Pros & Cons – Strong, affordable, low-maintenance, but not as energy efficient or attractive as others.

3. Vinyl: Vinyl on its own provides an excellent low-maintenance exterior for any window and is available in a wide variety of colors. Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. See below.

Pros & Cons – Affordable and low-maintenance, but color may fade over time.

4. Clad: The most expensive type, with wood frames inside and aluminum or vinyl shell on the outside; wood frame helps minimize the transfer of heat and cold, while the exterior shell makes the window low-maintenance.

Pros & Cons – Expensive, but very low maintenance and energy efficient.

5. Fiberglass – Fiberglass is a tough, weather-resistant material. They are maintenance free and can be combined with beautiful wood interior frames.

Pros & Cons – durable, maintenance free, lightweight, energy efficient.

6. Composites: Composites are new materials created to combine the best attributes of several materials. Composite windows are stronger and more durable than wood and vinyl, and can be painted to match a home’s decor.The price falls between wood and vinyl. Andersen’s Fibrex® composite window frames are two times as strong as vinyl, perform better when exposed to extreme temperatures and deliver exteriors that won’t fade, flake, blister or peel.

Pros & Cons – moderate price, extremely strong and durable, low maintenance, energy efficient, can be painted

We know it’s a lot of information, so start by prioritizing the benefits that you value the most. This will help you narrow down the field and make a final decision easier. If you have any questions or want to talk to an expert about replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online.