The essential first step in sealing air leaks is to locate the source of each and every leak in a house, from the major ones right down to small or narrow cracks and gaps. Getting a home energy audit from a professional contractor is the most reliable way to pinpoint the location of all leaks. During an energy audit, a technician will use advanced diagnostic procedures including blower door tests and/or thermographic scans to identify areas where the home is not airtight. While it may be possible to detect large leaks and gaps without the help of a contractor, these tests are the most comprehensive option available.
Do-It-Yourself Air Sealing
There are many areas in a home where air leakage is easy to discover and to fix yourself. Some of these areas include:
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Windows and Doors - The weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors.
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Electrical outlets – Any outlet located on outside facing walls are commonly overlooked, but notorious for air leakage. Simply install foam gaskets behind the outlets and switch plates for an easy, affordable fix.
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Air Ducts - Conditioned air escapes through improperly sealed joints and is lost to the unconditioned space where the duct is located. Relatively inexpensive and easy to apply, duct mastic should be used to seal these joints to prevent air leakage and increase efficiency.
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Attic Hatch – Adding weather stripping around the frame of the attic hatch and 4-inch foam board to the hatch can help reduce this energy loss. If your attic hatch has attached stairs, an attic tent can also be effective.
Air Sealing and Insulation: Problems Requiring Professional Remediation
For those homeowners with little to no experience working with the aforementioned materials, or who want extensive retrofits outside the bounds of reasonable time and materials, hiring a professional contractor is recommended. They have the specialized knowledge, tools and equipment to comprehensively seal a residential building in a relatively short period of time. The professional can maximize energy while still allowing for proper airflow throughout the home. This additional investment in professional expertise will pay dividends for years to come.
Examples of air sealing and insulationrelated problems that should be brought to the attention of a contractor include:
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Water-saturated insulation caused by a roof leaks
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Vents which release moist or humid air into the attic instead of the outdoors
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The presence of knob and tube wiring, which creates an elevated risk of fire if it lies within close proximity to fiberglass insulation*
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Recurrent ice dams in gutters and attics during the winter
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Attic rafters and floor joists which are showing signs of rot or mold infestation
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Inadequate attic ventilation
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Recessed light fixtures which require insulation
Not only will professional attention vastly improve the energy efficiency of the home, but it will also help to raise the overall resale value of the house and make it more attractive to potential future buyers. Call Windows on Washington - your Northern Virginia and Maryland energy experts - for a free estimate.
*Note: If the home has knob and tube wiring, it should be updated by an electrician or qualified contractor. Like other home efficiency improvements, updated wiring will significantly enhance the home’s market value while reducing the risk of fire.
Many homeowners have questions about how to compare the performance of different windows. With so much information available and manufacturers all making claims that their product is best, it is easy to be overwhelmed by all the numbers. Consumers find it difficult to make meaningful comparisons between window lines as they sort out the various ratings that are used to indicate window performance.
We recommend looking to the National Fenestration Rating Council (NRFC) and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) for guidance. They both provide accurate information to measure and compare energy performance of windows, doors and skylights. We have compiled a list of the most notable window performance metrics for your review.
U-Factor
U-factor measures how well a product prevents heat from escaping. The rate of heat loss is indicated in terms of the U-factor (U-value) of a window assembly. U-Factor ratings generally fall between 0.20 and 1.20. The insulating value is indicated by the R-value, which is the inverse of the U-value. The lower the U-value, the greater a window’s resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value. In terms of performance, windows with lower U-Factors help to keep a home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a product blocks heat caused by sunlight. The SHGC is the fraction of incident solar radiation admitted through a window, either directly or absorbed and subsequently released inward. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window’s solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits.
In a desert climate, consumers require a low SHGC so that the brutal afternoon sun will not overheat the home. In cooler climates such as the Mid-Atlantic or Northeast, consumers spend more energy dollars heating their home than cooling it. Therefore, they often choose a window with a more moderate or higher SHGC that will allow the sun’s rays to warm their home during winter months.
Visible Transmittance
Visible Transmittance (VT) measures how much light comes through a product. The visible transmittance is an optical property that indicates the amount of visible light transmitted. VT is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The higher the VT, the more light is transmitted.
A typical piece of clear, annealed glass has a VT of .93, meaning 93% of the light that hits the glass passes through. Add a second lite, and the VT goes down to about 88%. These are general figures because different types of glass can vary. When tints are added to the glass, or coatings such as Low-E are applied, the VT can also be affected.
Air Leakage
Air Leakage (AL) is indicated by an air leakage rating expressed as the equivalent cubic feet of air passing through a square foot of window area (cfm/sq ft). Heat loss and gain occur by infiltration through cracks in the window assembly. The lower the AL, the less air will pass through these cracks.
Condensation Resistance
Condensation Resistance (CR) measures the ability of a product to resist the formation of condensation on the interior surface of that product. The higher the CR rating, the better that product is at resisting condensation formation. While this rating cannot predict condensation, it can provide a credible method of comparing the potential of various products for condensation formation. CR is expressed as a number between 0 and 100. This is an optional field on the NRFC rating sticker and many manufacturers do not include it.
Design Pressure or Performance Grade
The DP rating of a window or door is based on laboratory pressure testing in pounds per square foot or psf. Design pressure requirements can vary as they are based on product location on the building, height of the building, density of buildings, and wind zone designation. The positive DP number is the standard for wind blowing at the building (windward) and the negative DP number represents the vacuum pressure on the opposite side of the building (leeward). This value is particularly important for homes in a hurricane zone, and building codes strictly enforce minimum requirements.
Structural Test Pressure = 1.5 x Design Pressure
Structural is tested at 150% of DP rating. The structural rating of a window is as much about the glass as it is about the frame and sash system. In order to get a higher DP rating the window manufacturer has to consider the thickness and possible heat-strengthening (or tempering) of the glass as well as the use of higher-end hardware and good quality sealants in the frame and sash system.
Sound Transmission Class
Basically, Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings are an established way to average how much sound is stopped by traveling through a material. STC ratings are used for windows, doors, walls and most building materials. For windows, STC ratings range from 18 to 50. The STC Ratings for double paned windows generally vary from 28 to 35. Take air seals out of the equation, and most of the variation is due to the glass thickness and the amount of air space between the glass. The bigger air space and thicker glass is preferred, as the result is better sound proofing.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the numbers, ratings, metrics and acronyms associated with window performance? Please contact the professionals at Windows on Washington for advice on not only which metrics are important for our reagion, but also which metrics to focus on to meet your personal home improvement goals.
Finding beautiful, energy efficient and affordable new windows for your home has never been easier. Whether increased heating and cooling costs or your home’s appearance are your primary reasons for considering replacement windows, there are a great deal of choices available. The good news is there is an impressive amount of options when it comes to replacing your home’s old windows. The bad news is with all of these choices, it can be overwhelming to wade through all the information to determine which type of replacement window is right for your needs and your home.
The Windows on Washington Replacement Window Buyer’s Guide is designed to help you make sense of all your options and weigh your choices.
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When is it time to replace your windows?
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What style and type of replacement window is best for your home?
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What should you look for with regard to energy efficiency?
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How will you find a reputable replacement window manufacturer?
Great windows are only as effective as their installation, so finding a reputable experienced window replacement contractor must also be integral part of the equation. This guide will provide examples of the questions you should ask window replacement contractors so you can feel confident in choosing a solid contractor that will deliver on their promises. With a little ‘homework’ on your part, you will get beautiful, energy efficient, affordable replacement windows that will add value and beauty to what is for many of us our single biggest investment, our home.
Choosing a Roofing System
When the time comes to select a new roof, some important factors to consider include the type of material, style, color and amount of the investment. There are various materials available and they offer varying benefits like ENERGY STAR ratings, esthetic appeal, cost, life span and more. A knowledgeable roofing contractor can help you understand the benefits of the different materials and weigh your options to find the best fit for your individual taste, budget and home.
Asphalt Shingles
The majority of homeowners choose asphalt shingles due to low cost, straightforward installation and resiliency. Standard asphalt shingles are available in many color choices, which make them a nice choice for any architectural style. They are available in traditional 3-tab shingles or thicker laminated “architectural” shingles. Asphalt shingles are made of either a paper fiber mat (better suited for cold weather and wind resistance) or fiberglass (offers better fire and moisture resistance) impregnated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules. Typically, asphalt shingles will offer you one of the lowest priced options. On the other side, asphalt shingles have a lower insulative value and a shorter lifespan than many other roofing materials now available.
Observed Life Span: 15 to 30 years
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles and wood shakes are available in a range of woods including cedar, redwood and pine. Wood shingles are machine cut, while wood shakes are hand cut for a more rustic look. It is possible to purchase fire-resistant treated Class A wood shingles for an additional cost. Wood shingles and shakes can add attractive architectural details to bungalows and historic properties. Wood is a natural product and thus greener in some ways but sustainability can still be an issue. Although very attractive, wood roofing systems are high maintenance, can have poor fire ratings and tend to rot, split and mold over time. If you like the look of wood, but want something more affordable and less maintenance, you might consider metal roofing or synthetic shingles that mimic the look of wood without the drawbacks.
Observed Life Span: 10 to 20 years
Metal: Steel, Aluminum, Tile and Copper
Metal roofing offers some of the coolest roofs available, both in architectural style and temperature. Available in copper, aluminum, and stainless steel, metal roofs often contain a significant percentage of recycled material. Metal roofing provides high thermal/solar reflectance and incredible durability, lasting on average nearly twice as long as wood or asphalt. Metal shingles are significantly lighter than most other roofing materials and very resistant to bad weather and wind lift. Metal shingles are available in many styles and generally mirror the look of traditional roof coverings like shingles, slate and tile. With metal, you can get the architectural style you want with the price you want in an environmentally friendly material you can feel good about. This makes metal roofing systems a good choice for nearly any style home.
Observed Life Span: 30 to 50+ years
Recycled Synthetic Shingles
Recycled synthetic shingles, which are created from plastic or rubber, can be a great alternative to natural wood shingles or shakes. The shingles are shaped to mirror the look of wood or slate. Unlike traditional wood shingles, recycled synthetic shingles are UV-resistant, more moisture insensitive, can be more fire-resistant and have a longer lifespan. Some of the available recycled synthetic shingles offer a comparable lifespan to fifty-year asphalt shingles.
Observed Life Span: 30 to 50 years
Clay & Concrete Tiles
While clay tiles are non-combustible and very durable, they are very heavy and require additional roof framing. Clay roofing tiles are available in lighter colors, which can reflect over 50% of solar energy and adhere to cool roof standards. Concrete roofing tiles can offer a great look and value to your home. Concrete tiles are versatile and come in many design options - colors, shapes and textures - to give homeowners many choices. Roof tiles are made from natural clay or concrete. Tile roofing materials are very durable and offer minimal maintenance. They are naturally fire-resistant, offer a significant level of insulation and have high impact and wind lift resistance. Tile is appealing primarily for homes in a Mediterranean, European or Mission style. The downsides of natural clay and concrete tile are weight and price.
Observed Life Span: 30 to 50+ years
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Product
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Weight/Square
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Lifespan
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Asphalt (3-tab)
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190-250 lb.
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15-20 yr.
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Asphalt (laminated)
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240-340 lb.
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20-30 yr.
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Metal (coated steel)
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80-150 lb.
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30-50 yr.
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Plastic Polymer
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70-300 lb.
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30-50 yr.
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Clay Tile
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600-1,800 lb.
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30-50+ yr.
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Concrete Tile
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550-1,000 lb.
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50+ yr.
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Wood
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200-350 lb. |
10-20 yr. |
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We are extremely proud of our Roofing Division, as they always maintain the same high quality standards Windows on Washington is known for. We carry a variety of quality products ranging from Certainteed for asphalt roofing to Decra for steel roofing because we are committed to serving all of our customer's roofing needs. If a roof replacement is not necessary, you can be sure that we will not push you to replace it and instead offer you the appropriate solution or fix. Contact Windows on Washington for a roof inspection today!
At Windows on Washington, we are extremely proud of our Team. Here is is what our customers are saying about their experience with us. Do you also want to experience the WoW Factor!!!
Thank you so much for helping us out with that window. I just couldn't be more delighted with your company. It was so nice of you to help out with a window that you didn't even install! If you ever want to use us for customer testimonials, we would be happy to gush about how great Windows on Washington is! And we will be sure to use your company for any future needs.
Gratefully,
Mary and Harold - Vienna
Just a follow-up to our phone conversation today to again express our thanks to you, the install crew, and everyone at Windows On Washington for a job very well done. Everyone on the install crew was very professional, courteous, and very talented. This sort of project innately requires a fair amount of disruption and they made every effort to keep it to a minimum. This was not what we would call an easy job, particularly the full capping of the dormers, and we are thrilled with the result. Even our neighbors are in awe as to how well it was done! Please pass on our sincere thanks to everyone involved.
Best Regards,
Tom and Julie - Vienna
At Windows on Washington, we know that no two customers or new roofing projects are the same. This is why we offer many different manufactures to help you find the right solution for your new roof. A knowledgeable contractor works closely with manufacturers to ensure whatever roofing system you choose is installed according to the manufacturer’s suggested best practices. Here is a sampling of the highly regarded roofing system manufacturers we work with:
Decra
Decra offers quality materials with a proven track record. Decra, the original stone coated steel roofing system, represents over 50 years of research and practical experience. Decra offers the ultimate in performance and engineering design giving you lasting Roofing solutions. Decra offers many style options like Tile, Villa Tile, Shake and Shingle with all of the benefits of metal roofing.
Certainteed
CertainTeed Roofing offers great roofing options including Landmark Solaris, an energy-saving breakthrough that puts cool roof technology to work. Landmark Solaris is a steep-slope, solar reflective asphalt roofing shingle which contains advanced colored granules that reflect the sun’s rays and can reduce a roof’s temperature by as much as 20% in the summer months. Landmark Solaris is an advanced hybrid roofing material that marries the traditional beauty of asphalt shingles with the environmental benefits of cool-roof technology. The result is a long-lasting ENERGY STAR® rated product.
Englert
Englert makes some of the best standing seam metal roofing material on the market today. They coat their metal with Energy Star, LEED-compliant coatings and many of their metal roofing products meet or exceed the top requirements for wind uplift and fire resistance ratings. If you are considering the addition of solar panels on your roof, an Englert metal roof is an ideal platform for their solar energy and solar thermal roofing products.
Classic Metal Roofing Systems
Classic Metal Roofing Systems is a leading manufacturer of residential metal roofing. Classic Metal Roofing Systems has designed their products with a focus is on increasing your home’s value and protection, making your roof worry-free and your home comfortable. They offer many metal roofing styles, from the charm of wood shakes, the popular look of architectural shingles, or traditional Standing Seam, all in beautiful, energy efficient, lifetime metal. Some great products include Oxford Shingle, Rustic Shingle, Country Manor Shake and Clicklock Standing Seam.
Malarkey
Malarkey Roofing Products has operated as a family owned company since 1956. At Malarkey Roofing, they work to create long-term value for homeowners. Their commitment to excellence propels Malarkey Roofing to new advances in polymerization and the development of long lasting products. Malarkey maintains a solid commitment to affordable, dependable roofing. With products including high profile laminate shingle, 3-tab shingles and solar reflective shingles, you have a nice range of color and style choices.
Firestone
With a wide product offering that includes single-ply, metal and asphalt-based system solutions, Firestone is your provider of innovative products with outstanding warranty coverage. Design enhancement, energy efficiency and ease of use are just some of the features Fires- tone Metal Systems provide. Firestone offers a diverse product line of base sheets, ply sheets and cap sheets along with installation tools to give you a single source for quality asphalt-based roofing materials.
When deciding on a new roof, it's important to work with a contractor that is able to offer many different manufactures and roofing systems to find the perfect solution for your home. The experts at Windows on Washington will give you a factual breakdown on the different manufacturer and roofing types so you can make a fully informed decision. Contact WoW today for more information.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Home’s Windows?
Are your windows still doing their job or are they on their last leg? Every part of your home has a lifespan and your home’s windows are no exception. How do you determine whether it is time to replace your home’s windows? You should consider window replacement if you are experiencing any of the following:
1. You have growing heating and cooling bills.
One of the reasons that homeowners decide to replace their windows is a lack of energy efficiency. Advancements in technology and breakthroughs in manufacturing in the past 20 years have given homeowners many high quality, energy efficient choices. Quality replacement windows will offer most homes significant energy savings.
2. It is difficult to open and close windows.
Windows that are difficult to open or close are an indication that your windows may have reached their maximum life span. Water damage, warping and wood rot all negatively impact operation, which most often cannot be repaired. Replacement is the best option in this case.
3. Your existing windows are single-pane.
Single pane windows lack many of the features newer double or even triple pane windows offer, chief among them energy efficiency. Double pane windows are insulated and the cushion of inert gas maintained between the two panes of glass keeps in heat during the winter and AC inside during warmer summer months. Installing double pane windows will make a big difference in your energy bills, noise reduction and maintaining your home’s comfortable temperature. For the utmost in fuel or energy savings, triple pane offers even better performance.
4. There is noticeable condensation or fogging between panes.
When you see condensation or fogging between your existing window panes, this is an indication that the window’s seals have failed. Depending on the age and operability of the window unit, many times replacement is the only option.
5. Your home feels especially noisy or drafty in the winter and overly warm in the summer.
The right replacement windows will reduce the amount of outside noise you hear in your home. Likewise, highly energy rated windows will eliminate drafts and cold spots while window coatings will reduce sun exposure that can age furnishings and quickly make a room too warm.
6. There is wood rot on or around windows.
If there is visible rot on or around one or more windows, they should be replaced. Often, homeowners then choose to replace all of their home’s windows at the same time to maintain consistency and curb appeal.
7. Your existing windows are difficult and time consuming to maintain.
At times, the upkeep associated with older windows is just too much. Many homeowners tire of repainting or repairing windows every few years and are searching for an alternative that will preserve the look of their home without the added upkeep.
Homeowners in Northern Virginia and Maryland trust their homes to the experts at Windows on Washington. This locally owned company has won numerous awards for service excellence, including Angie's List Super Service Awards for 2010, 2011 and 2012. Do you want to improve the energy efficiency, comfort and beauty of your home? Call the Experts at Windows on Washington today for solutions to all your home improvement needs.
A Checklist For A Quality Roofing Contractor
All roofing contractors are not alike. It is important to prequalify roofing contractors to get the job done right the first time. Doing a little work upfront will save you hours of distress and potentially thousands of dollars later.
Fly-by-night contractors are typically uninsured and work with cheap, untrained and ill-supervised laborers. They will often use your roof as a training exercise to figure out how to put a roof on and will come to you later asking for more money to finish a job that isn’t correct to begin with. By shopping professional, local, established roofing contractors, getting multiple estimates from companies with a proven track record and weighing your material options, you can get a quality roofing system, professionally installed at a fair price and add value, security and comfort to your home.
We cannot stress enough - you need to understand the nature of low bids. No one likes to pay more than they have to, especially when it is a large investment like a roofing system. A low bid can seem really attractive and it can be significantly less than other bids from your vetted professional roofing contractors. The simple truth is, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Roofing systems are expensive because the hard cost of the materials, the trained, professional labor required in a proper installation and the insurance required to cover workers and protect homeowners from litigation. There’s no (right) way around this.
So what qualities and requirements should you look for in a contractor? Use our handy checklist to make sure you choose a true professional.
- Permanent place of business, telephone number, tax id number & business license
- Proof of insurance - liability coverage & workers' compensation certificates
- Licensed and bonded
- Ensure the contractor is financially stable
- Company has proven track record, client references & a list of completed projects
- Detailed, written proposal with descriptions of the work & specifications, approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures
- Contractor is a licensed or approved applicator with manufacturer
- Contractor should be able to explain his project supervision, quality control procedures, size of the crew and estimated project completion time
- Contractor demonstrates a commitment to professionalism with appropriate industry associations
- Check with Better Business Bureau or Department of Professional Regulation for possible complaints filed against the contractor
- Contract & roofing warranties offered for labor and materials
When deciding on a contractor for a new roof, you would be well served by visiting with a
straightforward contractor who meets the qualifications listed above.
Windows on Washington carries an array of different roofing materials and can give you a factual breakdown on the different types to make the best decision for your home. Contact the experts at
WoW today for more information.
Understanding Home Lighting Options
Florescent, compact florescent, incandescent, and halogen light bulbs are all commonly found in homes across the country. Specific bulbs will serve a specific purpose throughout your home, as each of these light bulbs comes with pros and cons. If you feel the lighting in your home is insufficient, or you simply want to be more eco-friendly, here is a breakdown of these light bulbs and how they can best be used in your home.
Florescent
While most florescent bulbs are large, rectangular bulbs that fit directly into ballasts designed to house them, they do come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The florescent ballast will hold your light bulb in place while regulating the amount of power, or energy, which is sent to the bulb. Florescent light bulbs attempt to replicate natural daylight, and produce a cold, flat blue light. Unfortunately, many people find this type of light to be rather harsh on the eyes, and these bulbs are not compatible with a dimmer switch, meaning what you see is what you get. Great for larger rooms such as an attic or basement, florescent lights, however, are not the ideal choice if you are working on a lighting project.
Compact Florescent
Among the most energy-efficient light bulbs on the market today, the compact florescent (CFL) bulb is not equipped with a heating filament to generate light. Instead, the CFL bulb uses electricity as a means to hear mercury vapor contained within the bulb. The heating of this mercury vapor will initially produce ultraviolet light, and shortly thereafter will produce visible light. CFL bulbs use approximately 75% less energy than traditional light bulbs and will last around six times longer, according to EnergyStar. It is important to note that compact florescent bulbs will require you to invest more up front, but you are sure to make that money back in the long-run, provided the bulbs aren’t dropped before they need to be replaced.
Incandescent
Incandescent light bulbs are the most commonly used bulbs in households across the United States. One of the main reasons this is the case is due to their low cost. Incandescent light is often warm and inviting, and is known to complement skin tones. Unlike florescent bulbs, incandescent bulbs can be used with a dimmer switch, which can extend their life expectancy beyond the typical 1,000-hour life expectancy. If you are looking for environmentally-friendly lighting options, however, the incandescent is amongst the worst bulbs for this purpose.
Halogen
A variation of the incandescent bulb, halogen light bulbs are known for their ability to nearly duplicate natural sunlight. Halogen bulbs produce what is known as “white light,” which helps colors appear sharper in halogen light. Capable of being paired with a dimmer switch, halogen bulbs are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, though they burn at a much higher temperature and are more expensive. Halogen light bulbs must be handled with extreme care, and should not be used in a fixture that is within reach of a child. Most often used beneath cabinets and in recessed cans, halogen lights cannot operate with the natural oils from your skin upon them. The smallest amount of oil can create a hot spot on the bulb, which can cause it to explode and shatter when turned on.
Lighting accounts for approximately 10% of your household energy costs, which can easily cost up upwards of $200 a year. This may not seem like a big expense, but it is enough to make you reconsider your lighting options. With the proper research and planning, you can illuminate your home while reducing your utility costs and reducing your carbon footprint. Take control of your home lighting today and choose the right bulb for the job.
Windows on Washington would like to thank Rachael Jones for guest blogging. She is a blogger for DIYMother.
Our project of the week is a new window replacement that had extensive wood rot in Riverdale, Maryland. Wood rot occurs when moisture penetrates the wood around the window frames, and can happen when the window material itself is vinyl, metal or wood. Water enters the window frame through cracks in the wood that are not properly sealed, through the natural joints of the frame, or through the cracks and crevices of old, decaying caulk.
Either way, as soon as wood rot is identified it is time to act. A small amount of rot can often be repaired by replacing the caulking or digging out a small amount of wood rot and replacing it with epoxy. However, as was the case for this customer, the wood rot was so extensive that it surrounded the entire window. A full window replacement and re-framing was needed to solve the problem.
Windows on Washington began by removing the old wooden window, which showed just how rotten the frame had become. It's very important to remove all of the decayed wood to prevent mold, additional rotting and potential leaks. Some unskilled or lazy contractors won't take the time to do a full removal, instead opting to put the new window into the damaged or rotted frame to save time and money. These shortcuts always lead to more problems down the road.
Once the opening was free from the wood rot, we re-framed it with new wood and lined it with Flex Wrap (TM). This wrap is a flexible self-sealing flashing that prevents moisture from entering the window opening. At Windows on Washington, we believe that this flashing is a must to protect the bottom corners of sills where water damage is most likely to occur. Again, many contractors cut out this step for convenience or cost savings.
Finally, we replaced the window with a new Starmark 900 window and all new trim. The trim has been properly sealed to prevent any damage that may be caused by moisture. The result is a structurally sound, energy efficient, beautiful new window.
Homeowners in the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC area can trust their home improvement projects to the experts at Windows on Washington. This locally owned company has won numerous awards for service excellence, including Angie's List Super Service Awards for 2010, 2011 and 2012. This award honors contractors who provide the best value for homeowner investment.
Would you like to experience the Wow! Factor for your self? Do you want to improve the energy efficiency, comfort and beauty of your home? Contact the Experts at Windows on Washington today for solutions to all your home improvement challenges.