The Windows On Washington Way of Doing Business

 

At Windows on Washington, our mission is to provide our customers with quality products and expert workmanship to improve the comfort, beauty and energy efficiency of their homes. And we do it with unparalleled service. Our work is not complete without your total satisfaction.

When you trust Windows on Washington with your home improvement project, you’re taking the first step toward making your home improvement dreams a reality.  The primary focus of our business is customer service and building lasting relationships. We offer our customers detailed, written proposals with descriptions of the product, materials, work scope, specifations and cost so that there are no surprises.  With Windows on Washington, you know that you are receiving best in class products with expert installations.

Windows on Washington listens to your specific needs and home improvement challenges, then provides solutions that include the most suitable products for your project, whether it is replacement windows, exterior doors, siding, roofing or insulation.  We believe that there is no “best” product that meets the needs of every homeowner.  We represent a number of different manufacturers, thus allowing us to provide varied solutions for your home improvement challenges and budget.  

Windows on Washington is dedicated to providing solutions to your toughest home improvement challenges, at a fair and honest price. Our experts are skilled in windows, doors, siding, roofing and insulation, so we take a comprehensive approach to improving the comfort, appearance, and energy efficiency of your home.  Click on the link below to talk to one of our experts about your project today. 

Which Home Improvement Projects Offer the Highest ROI for 2013?

 

It’s a great time for home improvement, especially if you live in the Northern Virginia, Washington, DC and Suburban Maryland area.  Remodeling Magazine has released their Cost vs Value report for 2013.  This report describes many different home improvement projects as well as the projected return on investment (ROI) if and when you sell the house.  Just remember - while these numbers are very strong, they do not take into account the immediate energy savings you will gain, so the actual ROI can be above what is listed.

As of 2013, the average ROI for home improvement projects increased by 2.9% nationwide and saw increases in each measured category.  The Metro DC area had some of the largest growth in ROI as compared to other cities, and was above the national average in every category.  In addition, the highest gains on ROI were from replacement projects rather than renovating or addition projects at almost 8% growth.  

We’ve highlighted a few examples of replacement projects that net the highest ROI for the year.

Custom Window Replacement
Last year, custom window replacement carried a ROI of up to 74.3% for the Southern Atlantic Region.  In 2013, there was a slight increase to as much as 74.7%.  However, the bigger news for the Metro DC area is that the ROI is well above the national average at 95.1%.   That means that homeowners in the Metro DC area are not only apt to get almost every dollar spent on replacement windows back when their home is sold, they will reap immediate and continuous cost savings through lower energy bills while they live in the home.  Couple this with the increased comfort and improved curb appeal that new windows bring, and it’s a win-win.

Entry Door Replacement
A new door can make a great impression on a guest or potential buyer, dramatically impacts curb appeal and increases the value of your home.  Once again, our immediate area saw a major increase on the  ROI when it comes to steel doors with a ROI of 106.2%.  Fiberglass entry doors are also netting up to an 85% ROI.  Many entry doors are also Energy Star Qualified, so utility dollars literally stop going out the front door while giving an fresh, updated look to the front of your home.

Roof Replacement
When a home is being sold, the number one item that a home inspector will assess is the roof. Buyers want to ensure that they are not going to have a large outlay of cash for a new roof after they move in.  With that being said, putting a new roof on your home will not only net you a ROI of up to 70.4% but it’s a feature that will make a lasting impression on potential buyers and can differentiate your home.  So, maybe it’s time to replace your roof to enjoy a few years of increased curb appeal before you sell your home.

Siding Replacement
Last year siding ranked as one of the highest ROI of all home improvement projects - and this year is no different.  Last year, the projected ROI was 89% and this year it increased up to 96%.  There are several types of siding available - vinyl siding, foam back siding and cement fiber siding - all can give a major boost to curb appeal.  In addition, carefully selected siding can improve the energy efficiency of the home, resulting in increased comfort and energy savings which drive your ROI even higher.

Garage Door Replacement
Not many people think of replacing garage doors to add value to a home.  However, when a homeowner invests in new garage doors, guests and potential buyers have the impression that the home is well cared for.  This impression gives potential buyers confidence that the same care was taken throughout the home.  In 2013, garage doors can net up to 96.9% ROI for our local area.  

At Windows on Washington, we provide solutions to all your exterior home improvement challenges.  Our experts are well trained in custom replacement windows, steel and fiberglass exterior doors, siding, roofing and garage doors.  Contact us today to see how Windows on Washington can make your home more beautiful, comfortable and energy efficient.

 

Learn The 5 Signs That Your Siding Needs To Be Replaced

 

The siding on your home provides character and charm, as well as curb appeal, to your home.  The color and style of the siding is seen as a reflection of the homeowner and their pride in the home, but it also has a much more important and functional purpose.  The main purpose of siding is to protect the interior structure of the home from the elements, including: rain, humidity or persistent moisture, high and low temperatures and damaging insects.  This is why proper maintenance of siding is very important, and part of that is understanding when a replacement is required.  When siding problems go unchecked, homeowners have no choice but to pay for the siding replacement or repair in addition to the repairs of damaged internal walls and structure of the home.  

Windows on Washington has compiled a list of 5 indicators that your siding may need to be replaced:

1. Cracked and Peeling Siding - When your siding has cracks, chalky texture, chips or holes in it, it may be time for replacement.  In fact, these external problems may indicate that that there is a greater problem behind the siding panels such as repeated moisture penetration, wood rot or mold.  The chalky substance also indicates that the materials used in the manufacturing of the product have broken down over time.  And because the paint is a protective coating from moisture, when that coating has been broken down it may mean moisture has seeped behind the siding doing damage that cannot be seen from the outside.  It may be best to check with a professional to determine if the siding can be repaired or is in need of total replacement.

2. Warped and Buckling Siding - When you look at the siding of your house from the side and you see bludging, warping or buckling, it could indicate that the siding is in need of replacement.  Much of this warping and buckling is the result of moisture getting under the siding panels, thus causing the board underneath to rot and push the siding outward.  When this occurs, you know the siding is no longer able to provide a protective barrier for your home.

3. Fungus and Mold  -  If you see fungus and/or mold growing on the siding, you may have a moisture problem and need to replace your siding.  In addition, many homes that show fungus or mold on the outside also have these problems on the materials behind the siding as well.

4. Seam Separation - If the seams in between the siding boards seem to be pulling apart, then the siding may need to be replaced.  This seam separation can be seen with improperly installed siding, or siding that has aged over time.  In either case, rain and moisture can seep behind the siding panels and cause damage to materials on the inside of the wall.

5. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper - When the paint and wallpaper inside your home peels or sags, it may come from water damage to the back side of the wall closest to the siding.  Moisture may be coming through old, decayed or improperly installed siding and should be replaced before further damage occurs.

Any of these problems indicate that the siding is no longer serving it’s purpose and should be repaired or replaced to minimize any further damage to your home.  Do you want to improve the energy efficiency, comfort and beauty of your home with new siding?  The experts at  Windows on Washington are happy to come to your home to determine if these problems are cosmetic and require repair or are more serious and require siding replacement.  Windows on Washington is Home Improvement You Can Trust.

 

Full Home Makeover: Windows, Siding and Gutters...Oh My!

 

Windows on Washington has chosen a full exterior make over for our highlighted Project of the Week.  This project began with replacing all of the home's original window units with Okna 500 replacement windows.  The homeowner chose the foam filled frame upgrade for the added energy efficiency that option provides.  These oustanding windows will prevent drafts to keep rooms comfortable, increase efficiency to control utility costs and improve the curb appeal of the home.

Front Dormer Window Before	Front Dormer Window After

Next, the home owner chose to replace their current siding with long-lasting, no maintenance Hardie Plank Siding. This product is unique, as it is a type of foam back siding.   The foam backing is beneficial for three reasons: efficiency, stability and sound reduction.  Foam back siding increases the energy efficiency of your home because the foam core is a barrier of insulation preventing heat loss where the studs of your walls contact the outer wall of the home.  The stability of this product gives a very polished look without a wavy appearance, as the foam backing allows the siding to lay flush against the home.  The final benefit to this product is the reduction of outside noise due to the sound barrier of the foam.

Siding (Before)	Hardie Plank Siding (After)

Lastly, we installed new gutters to compliment the polished look of the windows and siding. They not only make the home aesthetically pleasing, but also provide a needed barrier of protect around the home by carrying water away from the home's exterior, avoiding the future problems that poorly managed drainage can bring.

Before	After

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.  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.

 

Finding the Right Siding Solution For Your Home

 

Siding is the cladding around a home and can come in many different types such as stone, vinyl, and wood, among others.  Its’ main purpose is to provide a protective barrier around the home and to add aesthetic value.  When deciding which siding to choose, keep in mind its’ ability to resist water and humidity, provide increased energy efficiency, versatility and durability.  The key to finding the right solution for your siding needs is understanding the many types of siding that are available and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Wood Siding
Wood siding is just as it sounds - siding that is made out of wooden planks and adhered to the side of your home.
Advantages:

1. Green – wood is the greenest of all the siding choices as it is made solely of wood.
2. Quick installation – it is relatively easy to install.
3. Aesthetically – it can be stained or painted to any color that you choose.

Disadvantages:

1. Expensive – more expensive than vinyl.
2. Low insulative properties – wood siding is one of the least insulative of all of the siding types.
3. Easily damaged – this is the primary reason people change their siding from wood to another type.  Wood siding can be damaged and/or show signs of rot from storms, moisture, humidity and insects.
4. High maintenance – wood siding requires homeowners to frequently paint, repair and add weather-stripping.

Vinyl Siding
Vinyl Siding has been around since the 1960’s to combat the disadvantages of wood and stone siding.  It is now the most commonly used type of siding due to many advances in manufacturing technology.  Vinyl can be more energy efficient than wood siding.   The R Value (energy efficiency value) will help differentiate the many brands and styles.
Advantages:

1. Inexpensive – it is the least expensive of siding choices for materials and installation.
2. Versatile – it comes in many different colors and styles such as plank, shake, and shingles.  It can also mimic wood, stone, and slate.
3. Warranty – it can come with up to a lifetime warranty.
4. Limited maintenance – it is easy to clean with soap and water.
5. Limited damage – it is not susceptible to insects or damage from excess moisture.

Disadvantages:

1. Expensive to repair – if there is any damage to a section of siding, a repair will require color matching which may be extremely difficult.
2. Flammable.
3. Color change – you cannot paint most vinyl siding.

Foam Backed Vinyl Siding
Foam backed siding is a newer product with foam core backing which can be bonded or not bonded to the actual siding.  This type of siding increases the energy efficiency of your home because the foam core is a barrier of insulation preventing heat loss where the studs of your walls contact the outer wall of the home.
Advantages:

1. Increased energy efficiency.
2. Polished finish – because the foam board is installed first, the vinyl siding may lay flatter than without the board, creating straighter lines and a smooth surface.
3. Limited maintenance – easily maintained with soap and water.
4. Reduces outside noise.
5. Versatile – many design choices and color.
6. Limited damage – from moisture and insects.

Disadvantages:

1. Increased cost - over vinyl siding.
2. Expensive repair – the entire panel requires replacement and color matching.
3. Color change – you cannot paint most vinyl siding.

Cement Fiber Siding
Cement fiber siding is an extremely durable type of siding that is made from cement, sand and wood fibers.   It  is much thicker than regular vinyl siding and has the ability to be molded in many different shapes and textures, such as wood.
Advantages:

1. Increased energy efficiency – due to the thickness of the material over vinyl.
2. Durable - water and insect resistant.
3. Versatile – can be manufactured into numerous textures (such as wood) and colors.  It also can be painted if you wish to change the color of your home years later.
4. Warranty – generally warranted for 25-30 years.
5. Non-flammable.

Disadvantage:

1. Expense – Cement fiber is more expensive than vinyl or foam back vinyl but less expensive than wood.
2. Difficult installation – due to the nature of the product, the installation is more difficult which can increase labor costs.
3. Maintenance – needs to be repainted every 15-20 years.

Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood siding is the latest advancement in siding products.  If is comprised of wood products combined with bonding agents and looks the most like wood without the disadvantages of wood.
Advantages:

1. Aesthetics – gives you the look and feel of wood with the ability to paint.
2. Insect resistant.
3. Warranty  - 50 years.
4. Greenest of all manufactured siding choices – because it is made from recycled wood product.

Disadvantages:

1. Expensive
2. Maintenance – if not maintained properly then it is susceptible moisture related problems.
3. Poor installation – a qualified, manufacturer certified installer should be engaged for installation, as improper techniques can lead to moisture related problems.

With so many siding options available to homeowners, it is important to weigh the options of cost, durability, versatility and energy efficiency before making the right decision for your home.  Homeowners in the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC area can trust their home improvement projects to the experts at Windows on Washington.  Do you want to improve the energy efficiency, comfort and beauty of your home with new siding? Call the Experts at Windows on Washington today for solutions to all your home improvement challenges.

 

Learn About Windows, Roofing, Siding & More During The Home and Remodeling Show

 

Windows on Washington will be attending the Dulles Home and Remodeling Show Friday-Sunday, January 18-20, 2013.  We will be showcasing our best in class replacement windows, doors, roofing, siding and gutters.  Stop by our booth, number 126, to talk to one of our professionals about your home improvement project. 

Special Events Schedule for the Home and Remodeling Show

Friday 
1:00pm - Mike Baird of Spike TV's Flip Men - Master the Flipping Craft
2:30pm - Josh Flagg of Bravo's Million Dollar Listing - Put a Dollar In and Get Two Back
4:00pm - Heloise - Hints to Remodel, Refurbish, and Redo
5:30pm - HandyMOM 101 Workshop
6:30pm - Mike Baird of Spike TV's Flip Men - 5 Steps Towards Flipping Homes

Saturday Special Events
11:00am - Mike Baird of Spike TV's Flip Men - The 7 Real Estate Myths
12:30pm - Heloise - Hints toRemodel, Refurbish, and Redo
2:00pm - Josh Flagg of Bravo's Million Dollar Listing - Put a Dollar In and Get Two Back
3:00pm - Mike Baird of Spike TV's Flip Men - Master the Flipping Craft
4:30pm - Josh Flagg of Bravo's Million Dollar Listing - Put a Dollar In and Get Two Back
6:00pm - Heloise - Hints toRemodel, Refurbish, and Redo
7:30pm - Color Trends for 2013

Sunday Special Events
11:00am - Zero Energy Homes: Say Goodbye to Electric Bills and Never Loose Power Again
12:00pm - HandyMOM 101 Workshop
1:00pm - Christen Bensten - "How to Restore with Chalk Paint"
2:00pm - Luxury Kitchens and Baths
3:00pm - Floors 101
4:00pm - How to Work with an Architect: A Case Study in Home Remodeling

Here are all of the details you will need to enjoy the event!

When: January 18-20, 2013

Where: The South Hall of the Dulles Expo Center 

Hours:

Friday 10:00am - 9:00pm 
Saturday  10:00am - 9:00pm 
Sunday  10:00am - 6:00pm 

Admission:  

$10.00 - Adults 
$7.00 - Adults Online
$3.00 - Kids 6-12 
Free for kids 5 and under 

At Windows on Washington, we field a great deal of questions from homeowners that are dreaming of a home improvement project.  We are committed to supplying our customers with all the facts, and believe the beauty, performance and warranty of the products we install speak for themselves.  If you are considering a home improvement project, stop by our booth at the Capital Home Show and talk to one of our experts or contact us by clicking on the link below.

New Year's Resolution In Home Improvement and Replacement Windows

 

Everybody does it.  We make a New Year’s resolution’s on January 1st to ensure the new year is more successful than the last, but for some reason we let it all fade away through the year.  Why? Maybe it’s because we set unrealistic goals or we make a resolution that takes daily time and energy and then we lose interest.  Whatever the reason, it’s time to set ourselves up for success with New Year’s resolutions this year.  Choose a resolution that matters to not just ourselves, but those around us.  Choose one that has goals set throughout the year that are attainable and where we can see immediate and future benefits from this resolution.

One such New Year’s resolution is to make your home more energy efficient.  Making this a priority in the new year can not only improve your curb appeal but also the comfort level in your home.  This goal is broad enough to cover many different price ranges depending on your financial position and gives you an immediate return on investment.  Feeling this reward immediately will help keep you on track to continue to make those improvements that matter.

Here are 5 projects to accomplish this New Year’s resolution of increased home energy efficiency in ascending order of the magnitude of energy savings.

1 - Lighting and Electrical
There are several small practices that you can do today to make your home more energy efficient and start saving money immediately.  

• Changing your light bulbs to Light Emitting Diode (LED) and Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL) bulbs will save utility dollars, as these bulbs utilize about ⅓ of the electricity of a traditional light bulb.  
• Unplugging electrical appliances when not in use will also cut down your electric bill.  According to the DOE, anywhere from 5% to 10% of residential electricity is used by devices that are plugged in 24 hours a day (TV, coffee maker, DVR, electrical gadgets like iPods, etc.)  Unplugging these devices, or if you use a powerstrip - switching it to the off position when not in use, will eliminate this expense.  
• Whenever old appliances are in need of replacement, choose an Energy Star rated new appliance to reap additional energy savings.

 2 - Energy Audit

An Energy Audit provides a comprehensive assessment of the overall efficiency of your home, as well as pinpoints the exact areas where energy loss occurs.  The auditor will create a customized, professional air sealing and insulation strategy to increase your home’s efficiency, decrease heating and cooling costs, and maximize your return on investment.  Some DIY measures, such as caulking or weather stripping, will also keep energy dollars from flying out the windows.  In addition, because it is a relatively inexpensive home improvement, the ROI is high since utility bills are often immediately and significantly reduced.  

3 - Air Sealing and Insulation
Once the energy audit is complete, you can prioritize those areas that will have the highest impact from professional air sealing and insulation.  Investing in air sealing and insulation will be a little more costly than a bit of weather stripping, but according to the EPA, this improvement reduces annual heating and cooling costs by an average of 20 percent.  Tackling this project will save you money year round by reducing the heat demand in the winter and decreasing air conditioning expenses in the summer.  These energy and cost savings will keep your New Year’s resolution right on track.

4 - Replacement Windows, Entry Doors and/or Garage Doors
It’s now time to get serious with your New Year’s resolution with replacement windows and doors.  As much as 10 to 25 percent of your central heat is can be lost through old, leaky windows and doors.  There are several measures you can take to help prevent this energy loss.  Caulking around the leaking areas is a best practice that can save you money in the very long term, but the results may not be enough to see a dramatic change in your energy bill and the comfort level of your home.   Replacing the old windows and doors with Energy Star rated replacements will not only save money immediately on energy bills, but according to the  Hanley Wood and Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report,the ROI for replacement windows and doors is between 71% and 78% at resale.

5 - New Siding
New siding gives curb appeal a big boost by making a fresh first impression. In addition, carefully selected siding can improve the energy efficiency of the home, resulting in a more beautiful, comfortable and cost effective household.  Advancements in technology and manufacturing have given homeowners several types of siding from which to choose.  Vinyl and foam backed siding should net up to 77.2% ROI, while the ROI of fiber cement siding could be as high as 89.7%.  HGTV ranks siding replacement as the #1 project to add value to a home.   

These 5 energy efficient home improvements will make your home more beautiful, efficient and comfortable - all while saving you money on energy bills.  Prioritizing based on project costs and ROI will keep this New Year’s resolution realistic.  To discuss which project makes the most sense for your home, contact the experts at Windows on Washington  today.  We offer an array of services that include: custom replacement windows, siding, roofing, entry and garage door replacement, energy audits, air sealing and insulation.  

 

Learn The Top 4 Benefits of Exterior Home Improvement Projects

 

Exterior home improvements are important for homeowners, regardless if they plan to put their house on the market now or sell sometime in the future.  Those who plan to sell in the distant future can also realize benefits now from exterior home improvements. In order to spend home improvement dollars wisely, homeowners must balance the cost of the project with the intrinsic value and the financial return that the project offers.  

At Windows on Washington, we see many benefits to our customer’s homes when we complete home improvement projects.  We’ve pulled together our list of the top advantages that homeowners enjoy when our work is complete.

1.  Increase in Home Value
Having an exterior home improvement project completed is the best way to increase property values. These are real ROI:

• After having siding installed, homeowners can immediately realize an average amount of just under $12,000 for fiber-cement siding and just over $10,000 for vinyl siding.  
• Replacing a garage door is one of the least expensive exterior home improvement projects, yet will increase the value of a home by more than $2,000. 
• The installation of energy efficient replacement windows can realize homeowners an average gain of anywhere from $9,684 to $12,433.

2.  Easy to Maintain
For many people, not only is their home valuable, but their time is as well. Exterior home improvements can significantly decrease the amount of time it takes to care for and maintain your home.

• Siding is easier to maintain than other exterior surfaces because it never needs to be repainted. Periodic power washing to remove dirt or mold is all that’s required. Homeowners will save a great deal of money because they will not incur the cost of painting every few years, yet the home will stay looking like new. After installation, siding can be expected to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, so most people never have to worry about replacing it again.
• A new garage door will be smoother and easier to use than an older model. It is less likely to get stuck going up and down because all of the parts are in good working order.  New garage doors also don’t require painting, so again power washing from time to time is all that’s required to keep it looking like new.
• Replacement windows will not require a homeowner’s time for painting, staining or caulking. New window styles are also much easier to clean because the windowpanes tip inward to make it easy to reach outside panes.

3.  Energy Savings
One of the biggest benefits that drive homeowner’s decision making on where to spend their home improvement budgets has to do with realizing energy savings.  

• Having siding installed can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 20%. For those who plan to remain in their homes for a long period of time, this can really add up to significant savings that begin to be realized immediately. These savings continue indefinitely, and after some time can offset the cost of the project altogether.
• A replacement garage door is likely to provide better insulation against the heat and cold than an older door.  It will also keep out a great deal of drafts from along the bottom and sides because the seals and weather stripping will be in good repair rather than being cracked or broken thus improving the comfort levels of the rooms adjoining the garage.   
• After installing energy efficient replacement windows, many homeowners notice their heating and cooling bills are significantly reduced.  A home’s interior will remain warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, making it more comfortable as well.  For this reason, we often hear from homeowners that this project is particularly worthwhile.

4.  Other Benefits

• Curb Appeal - Having new siding, windows, and garage doors installed can really change the look of a home. Those who are unhappy with the design of their home can give it a drastic makeover by choosing one or more of these exterior home improvement projects. 
• Protection - Exterior home improvements can also protect your home against moisture and termite damage, which could create a need for extensive repairs in the future. In addition, a new garage door and replacement windows can aid with security because these fixtures are easier to lock than outdated models.
• Resale Value - Homeowners will enjoy a variety of benefits from exterior home improvement projects such as those mentioned above. These benefits can be enjoyed whether the house will soon be placed on the market or used as a permanent residence for some time to come.

At Windows on Washington, we provide our customers with quality products and expert workmanship to improve the comfort, beauty and energy efficiency of their homes.  Whether you are looking for energy efficient replacement windows, beautiful siding, gutters, a new roof, or money saving insulation and air sealing, we provide solutions to all your home improvement challenges.  We will educate you on our approach to your project, explain your options and encourage you to do additional research.  There is no obligation, pressure or hidden charges. If you are considering a home improvement project, Let us know how we can be of service today! 

 

Selling Your Home? Top 3 Home Improvement Projects With The Best ROI

 

Exterior home improvements are important for homeowners, regardless if they plan to put their house on the market now or sell sometime in the future.  When it comes to selling a home, properties that have had recent improvements are more likely to sell faster and at a higher price than other comparable homes in their neighborhood. Those who plan to sell in the distant future can also realize benefits from exterior home improvements. They will be able to enjoy the benefits of these renovations now as well as notice an increase in their home’s value over time; there are also a number of intangible benefits that can be enjoyed.

At Windows on Washington, we are often asked “Where can I find the greatest return on investment (ROI) for my home improvement dollars if I plan to sell my home?”  We’ve pulled together our top three picks to stretch you home improvement budget, maximize ROI by increasing curb appeal, and help your home sell faster and at a higher price.

1.  Siding
According to Remodeling Magazine, homeowners in the South Atlantic states (which includes the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area) can see the greatest ROI when they add new fiber-cement siding to their home. This publication reports that consumers who do so notice an 89.7% return on investment. The number is also high for those who choose foam-backed vinyl siding, as homeowners who have this product installed can realize a 77% return on investment. Installing new siding can be beneficial because it improves a home’s aesthetics and provides energy savings, so potential buyers are more likely to be drawn to homes that have relatively new siding on them.  This isn’t surprising, considering the strong impact on increased curb appeal that new siding brings.

2.  Garage Door Replacement
For those homeowners that are considering new garage doors, it’s interesting to note that the ROI is up over last year.  Remodeling magazine reports that homeowners in the Washington, D.C. area can expect to recoup around 73.9% of the cost of this exterior home improvement. The average cost of a garage door replacement is $2,957, and increases a home’s value by $2,185. The benefits to replacing a garage door is that it enhances curb appeal while also giving potential buyers peace of mind that the doors will operate well for years to come.


3.  Custom Window Replacement
Homeowners who replace their dated windows with new vinyl or wooden replacement windows can notice high returns on their investment. When custom vinyl replacement windows are installed, the average Washington D.C. homeowner can expect to realize around a 77.2% return on investment. Those who choose wood replacement windows for this exterior home improvement project are likely to see around a 70.3% return on investment. Having windows that are in good shape helps attract potential buyers because there’s no peeling paint on exterior window sills and new windows are generally easy to care for.  Finally, new replacement windows are extremely energy efficient when compared to their outdated counterparts.  These benefit and the potential energy savings can be significant deciding factor if a buyer is having a hard time deciding between two different properties.

At Windows on Washington, we provide our customers with quality products and expert workmanship to improve the comfort, beauty and energy efficiency of their homes.  When preparing your home for sale, it’s especially important to stay on budget to maximize your ROI.

Whether you are looking for energy efficient replacement windows, beautiful siding, gutters, a new roof, or money saving insulation and air sealing, we provide solutions to all your home improvement challenges.  We will educate you on our approach to your project, explain your options and encourage you to do additional research.  There is no obligation, pressure or hidden charges.  Let us know how we can be of service today! 

 

An Extreme Home Makeover - New Roofing, Siding and Gutters

 

Our Project of the Week is a fabulous roof, siding and gutter replacement, complete with a skylight repair.  Talk about curb appeal!  This WoW-ed! customer chose to replace their old, warn asphalt roof with a beautiful new Decra Shake roof.  The Decra Shake roofing system is aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel shingles which offers the look of a wood shake roof with the superior performance and longevity of steel.

 

Before

After

The before picture is a textbook example of significant streaking caused by airborne algae and moss.  The after picture shows how closely the new Decra shake roof resembles that of a wooden shake with the added benefits of longevity and the maintenance free profile you expect from metal.  

Before

After

 

This before picture clearly shows the worn roof and leaky skylight - note the tarp the homeowner used to divert water and control the leak damage!  The after picture shows a remarkable difference in style and function.  Since the roof was failing but the skylight itself was not, our expert installers were able to fix the leak while reusing the same skylight.  Our customer couldn't have been more pleased about saving that expense!

What a stunning reveal of the final product!

This customer chose 10" CraneBoard Siding for their home to give the look and feel of real cedar board with the added benefits of increased insulation, a reduction of outside noise and no maintenance requirements.  The vertical profile looks incredible!  Windows on Washington also used the one-piece, seamless LeafGuard gutter system in conjunction with 6" gutters and downspouts.  This high capacity system allows rainwater to travel down and around its curved hood and into the gutter and away from the home's foundation, while deflecting leaves and debris and almost eliminating maintenance.

Homeowners in the Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC area can trust the expertise and professionalism of the roofing, siding and gutter experts at Windows on Washington. This locally owned company has won numerous awards for service excellence, including consecutive appearances on the Angie's List Super Service Awards for 2010, 2011 and 2012.  This award honors contractors who provide the best value for homeowner investment.  Want to experience the WoW Factor for yourself?  Contact Windows on Washington today for all your replacement window, roofing, siding and gutter services.