Replacing your windows might seem like it is a simple and straightforward project to tackle, but it can be complicated – and costly – like, say, a bathroom makeover. You may, however, find that it provides numerous benefits that far outweigh the initial investment. Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska, one of the leading local window installers, explains how installing new windows can increase your home’s overall value. 

Enhanced Curb Appeal

Newer and better window replacement units look far more appealing than old and damaged ones, especially if they’re customized to fit your needs. If you’re planning to put your home on the market soon, newly-installed windows can grab the attention of any home buyer. Otherwise, these investments allow you to boost your home’s aesthetic value, thanks to their sleeker, more stylish appearance.

At Renewal by Andersen, we offer high-quality window replacement products that come in a wide variety of styles, colors, hardware, and grille options. Turn to one of our design consultants to discuss your needs and we’ll be more than happy to help you find the perfect window with the right customization choices.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Old, damaged windows have gaps, cracks, dents, and other openings that cause outdoor air to leak into your home and wreak havoc on your indoor comfort and air quality. At the same time, these openings allow heated or cooled air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work twice as hard to keep your indoors comfortable. If your existing windows are already contributing to the steady spike in your home’s energy consumption, it’s time to have them replaced.

At Renewal by Andersen of Alaska, we offer high-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows equipped with the finest materials and components. These include our High-Performance Low-E4® glass, which has a special coating to minimize thermal transfer, and our exclusive Fibrex® framing material, which has insulating properties to keep your home comfortable all year round.

With these exceptional windows in place, you can enjoy their many advantages, including increased energy efficiency, curb appeal, and property values. To discuss your window replacement needs with us, fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We’re proud to serve Anchorage, AK, and the nearby areas like Fairbanks, Kenai Peninsula, and The Valley.

The post How Installing New Windows Increases Your Home Property Value appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

However, skylights are more complicated to install than standard vertical windows. It is crucial that the installation is done correctly to prevent cosmetic or structural damage. But with professional installation, you can avoid these potential issues and enjoy a beautiful new skylight window.

Looking for expert advice on how to install a skylight on a roof? The window installers at Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska are here to help!

What to Consider for Installing a Skylight on a Roof

When determining how to install a skylight, where you place the window is one of the most important factors here, and there are many different elements to consider:

• What is the pitch of your roof? If it is under 15 degrees, it is considered flat, which has fewer options. Roofs over 15 degrees have many options from which to choose.
  Will there be multiple skylights? If so, determine how far apart they should be based on your ceiling and roof’s structure.
• Do you want your skylights to be within reach? If you don’t mind them being out of reach, you will need a remote to open them (or a pole).
• What direction will the skylight face? West- or south-facing windows will bring in the most light and also produce the most heat. There is no wrong answer, but you should account for solar heat depending on the direction of the skylight(s).

If you’re interested in how to install a skylight but aren’t sure if it will work for your Alaska home, give us a call. Our expert window installers can assess the layout of your home and determine if and how skylights can be integrated.

Benefits of Skylight Windows

Skylight windows are a popular window option due to all the benefits they offer. The first benefit is likely the most obvious: they offer significant natural light due to their placement. This advantage is augmented by where the window is placed: a skylight can take a dark space to a bright, welcoming room just with the additional light. This can also boost your home’s curb appeal thanks to the improved aesthetic.

Skylights can also make a room feel bigger, which is great for smaller homes. They can increase the overall ventilation and can even help lower your energy bills thanks to the natural heating of the extra sunlight.

Skylight Window Installation in Alaska

Do you want to use skylights in your window replacement? The experts at Renewal by Andersen of Alaska are ready to help! Our professional team will ensure your new windows are installed properly, creating the look and feel you want with all the added benefits that skylights offer.

We offer window replacement services in Anchorage, Mat-Su Valley, The Kenai Peninsula, Fairbanks, Delta Junction, Valdez, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, Juneau, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today or call (907) 308-7784 for skylight installation!

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Windows play several important roles in your home, from increasing your property’s appeal to keeping your indoor spaces comfortable. They will stay in good shape with regular maintenance, but they won’t last forever. Once the need for window replacement comes, it’s essential to hire an experienced contractor for your project. 

Before hiring a company, don’t forget to ask these questions. 

Can You Show Proof of License and Insurance?

You should request to see proof of license and insurance before hiring any home improvement contractor. Hiring a licensed professional will give you the assurance that if something wrong happens, you won’t be held responsible for covering damages. Only consider companies with liability and workers’ compensation insurance. 

Can You Provide a Detailed Quote?

With a detailed estimate, you will have a better idea of how much your replacement windows will cost. Estimates usually include the expected cost of labor, material and cleanup. You shouldn’t be able to experience difficulty obtaining them from reputable professionals.  

How Long Will It Take to Replace My Windows?

Sometimes, windows take time to be delivered, especially customized or specialized units. You might need to adjust your project’s timeline, depending on when your new windows will arrive. It’s also a good idea to ask your prospective contractor how long it will take to complete your project. 

What Type of Warranty Do You Offer?

The warranty your contractor offers says a lot about the dependability of their products and services. A reliable contractor who is confident about their workmanship will not hesitate to provide you with comprehensive warranties. At Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska, our windows come with a fully transferable limited warranty, with 20-year coverage on glass and Fibrex® material, two-year coverage on installation and 10-year coverage on hardware.  

Make the most of your investment by working with experienced window installers, like Renewal by Andersen of Alaska. Call us or fill out our contact form to schedule a free in-home consultation. We serve homeowners in Kenai Peninsula, The Valley, Fairbanks and Anchorage, AK. 

The post Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Window Installer appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

The window replacement professionals at Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska are here to answer all your custom window questions.

The Costs of Custom Windows

There are several factors that influence the total cost of a custom window installation. Of course, the overall number of windows is the greatest consideration–the more windows, the pricier the installation is going to be.

Other factors that impact how much custom windows cost include:

• Window Style: Each window style has its own price. A bay window, for example, is generally more expensive than a picture window. We offer multiple types of windows, including bay, casement, awning, and double-hung windows. Of course, each of these windows will be custom-fit for your home–and if you want a specific style beyond what we offer, we can create a custom shape just for you.
• Window Material: There can be a wide range in cost when it comes to window materials. Different companies may offer vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, or wood options. All Renewal by Andersen windows is crafted exclusively with our patented Fibrex® technology, a composite material that offers the strength and stability of wood as well as the low maintenance of vinyl for a top-performance window.
• House Construction: How many stories your home has influences, not just the overall number of windows you need, but also the equipment the window installation team requires. Windows on the second or third story may require ladders or scaffolding, which add to the overall time spent on installation, increasing your costs. Additionally, any necessary repairs or decorative elements that need to be accounted for will add to the price.
• Labor Costs: Labor fees are the final factor to consider in your window replacement cost. Some window replacement companies charge by the hour, others have a set project fee. At Renewal by Andersen of Alaska, we offer free quotes for all projects. Get in touch today for a free quote for your custom window replacement cost.

Benefits of Custom Windows

Your custom window replacement offers a host of benefits for your Alaska home. The primary benefit of custom windows is in the name: they’re custom! Having windows custom-fit for your home means fewer gaps and leaks, increasing your home’s thermal seal and helping to keep your energy costs down.

Custom windows can also help reduce heating and cooling costs depending on the materials you use. Fibrex® windows insulate 700x better than aluminum, and Low-E glass windows minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that comes through, boosting your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Custom Window Replacement in Alaska

Are you ready for a custom window replacement? Get in touch with our expert team today to learn how much custom windows cost and what options are right for your home. We offer window replacement services in Anchorage, Mat-Su Valley, The Kenai Peninsula, Fairbanks, Delta Junction, Valdez, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, Juneau, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today or call (907) 308-7784 for a free quote!

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Want to learn about the benefits of invisible window screens? Our Alaska window experts have you covered:

Windows with Invisible Screens Provide More Natural Light

Because they block less natural light, invisible window screens add more light in your home. Additional natural light means a lot more than just a brighter space. Sunlight naturally helps heat your home and offers a whole host of health benefits as well. Natural light boosts vitamin D, increases productivity, and even helps you sleep better. Even on cloudy days, you’ll feel the difference. In the darkness of the Alaska winter, you’ll be grateful for the extra light!

Boost Your Energy Efficiency

With more natural light in your home, you’ll enjoy a nice boost in energy efficiency. The additional light means less electricity is needed for artificial lighting. Increased sunlight helps keep your home warm as well, helping to lower your heating costs. Invisible screens also help improve airflow, further reducing your overall HVAC costs and increasing the comfort of your home.

Enjoy a Better View with Invisible Window Screens

TruScene Screens® are called “invisible” for a reason – they are nearly indiscernible thanks to their micro-fine stainless steel wire mesh. Without the bulky wire, these screens enable a nearly unobstructed view of the outside world. In fact, they offer up to 50% more clarity than standard aluminum insect screens due to their tighter weave. You bought your home for the view, and you deserve to enjoy it! You no longer have to compromise your view in order to keep bugs out; the fine, stainless steel mesh of invisible screens effectively keeps bugs out of your home. Invisible window screens offer the best of both worlds, offering both a clear view and insect protection.

Additional Benefits of Invisible Screens for Alaska Homeowners

With more natural light, better views, and increased energy efficiency, your home’s curb appeal is also liable to go up. While you will want to appreciate all these perks of invisible screens as much as you can, when the time comes to sell your home, the added curb appeal may help boost its resale value.

Best Invisible Window Screens in Alaska

Ready to enjoy all the surprising benefits of invisible window screens? The Renewal by Andersen® window experts are here to help! Our TruScene® Screens are available for all Andersen® window products.

Our window installation services are available in Anchorage, Mat-Su Valley, The Kenai Peninsula, Fairbanks, Delta Junction, Valdez, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, Juneau, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today or call (907) 308-7784 for an invisible window screen quote!

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Why are specialty windows right for your home? We’ll let the expert window installers at Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska explain.

A Better Fit For Your Window Openings

What would you do if you never had to worry about drafty windows? With specialty windows, a completely custom fit means no gaps – which means no drafts!

With standard windows, it’s common to fill gaps around the frames with sheetrock or molding before being patched and painted. While this solution may initially save money, it may also affect your home’s exterior design and can cause drafts, later on, adding a significant cost to your heating bills.

When you get specialty windows, there’s no need to fill any gaps around your window opening since they’re custom made to your home’s measurements! You’ll also benefit from having a larger glass surface area, which means you get a much bigger (and better) view of your home’s landscape and scenery.

Energy-Saving Benefits of Specialty House Windows

We often talk about the cost-saving benefits associated with energy-efficient windows, and those same benefits hold true with specialty windows! While windows from the hardware store or lumber yard may seem like a good and inexpensive option, they may not fit your window openings properly. A poor fit often leads to air infiltration and drafts, forcing your HVAC to work harder to keep the indoor temperatures at a comfortable level, driving your energy bills up. If you want to keep your energy costs low and your efficiency levels high, a customized window replacement is the way to go!

Specialty Windows Offer More Custom Options

Specialty windows enable window replacements in much more complicated circumstances. Older homes, for example, often have unusual opening sizes. With specialized windows, you can have your windows made to fit the openings without sacrificing visual appeal and efficiency. Or, if you simply want to add more windows to your home, specialized windows are a great option so that you can choose exactly the kind of window you want. If you’re looking for more natural light, for example, picture windows and skylights are a great option to bring in more daylight. With specialized windows, the options are endless!

As one of the most trusted contractors in the area, Renewal by Andersen of Alaska provides only the best products for replacement windows. Schedule your specialty window installation today by contacting us online or calling (907) 308-7784. We serve customers in Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula, Wasilla, Fairbanks, Juneau, and surrounding AK areas.

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Here are the top exterior window cleaning tips from the window experts at Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska:

How to Prepare for Window Cleaning

To keep your outside windows clean, there are a few steps to take before the actual cleaning process begins.

1. Clear the areas around the windows both inside and out. All dust and debris should be removed.
2. Remove and clean the screens. You cannot get your windows clean if the screens are still on!
3. Gather your cleaning supplies.
4. Clean on a cloudy day. While a sunny day might be warmer, the glare from the sun can hide the imperfections you are trying to remove. Additionally, the sun can dry the cleaner onto the glass, leaving hard-to-remove streaks.

What Do I Need to Clean My Windows?

Here is our list of recommended tools to keep the exterior of your windows clean:

• Stepladder
• Wash bucket
• Sponge
• Squeegee (optional – better for larger windows)
• Soft broom or cloth
• Vacuum
• Scrubbing sponge or scraper
• Window cleaning solution (we prefer a solution of water and vinegar)
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• Soft cotton towel for cleanup

How Do I Clean the Outside of My Windows?

1. Remove the screens.
2. Your windows should be completely clear of dirt and dust before you apply the cleaning solution! Vacuum around the frames first, then spray the glass down with water to ensure all the dirt is gone.
3. Using your cleanser of choice, go over the surface of the window with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge mop. Make sure the cloth is clean and dry before use!
4. Rinse off the windows once more.
5. Wipe the windows dry with the squeegee. Be sure to dry the squeegee off between each pass. For smaller windows, it may be better to use a microfiber towel instead.
6. For stubborn stains, dirt, or bird droppings, saturate the spots with a solution of vinegar and water and let stand for several minutes. You can then scrub it out, but be careful not to use a harsh cloth that could scratch the window.
7. Spray, clean, and dry your screens before replacing them.

When Should Alaska Residents Clean Their Windows?

Spring is the best to clear off the winter gunk and clear out for warmer weather. Summer is ideal to remove spring pollen and muddy rainfall. Do what makes the most sense for your schedule and your needs.

Additional Exterior Window Cleaning Tips

• Many swear by newspaper, but microfiber is much better to dry off your windows after cleaning.
• Screens are a significant contributor to window grime. You can leave them off for the winter to keep your windows cleaner longer.
• If you use sprinklers, be sure they don’t spray onto your windows! This can create a mineral buildup which can cause permanent damage.
• Trees or shrubs close to the house can also cause damage if their pollen builds up. Make sure they are trimmed back.

Looking for quality window replacement services in Alaska? The experts at Renewal by Andersen have you covered! Call today or check out our specials and schedule your home’s window replacement in Anchorage, Wasilla, Kenai Peninsula, The Valley, Fairbanks, Juneau, and surrounding AK areas.

The post How to Keep Outside Windows Clean: Exterior Window Cleaning Tips appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Renewal by Andersen of Alaska is honored to partner with the Better Business Bureau to highlight our Signature Service and window installation process.

Renewal by Andersen’s Signature Service is a commitment to giving you the best customer experience possible, through the perfect combination of the best people in the industry, a superior process, and an exclusive replacement window and replacement door product.

• Professional Replacement Window Installation. With Renewal by Andersen of Alaska, you get the product reputation of Andersen Windows with the craftsmanship of local professionals who are passionate about their work.
• Superior Replacement Window Performance. Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® energy-efficient window composite material lasts longer, performs better, and is twice as strong as vinyl.
• Energy Efficiency. Renewal by Andersen’s energy-efficient replacement windows & replacement doors are ENERGY STAR® certified and can reduce heating and cooling costs.
• Hassle-Free Process. Renewal by Andersen of Alaska eliminates the need to work with multiple companies to replace your windows or doors. We are responsible for all aspects of your window replacement and installation project.
• Long-term Value. Our comprehensive, hands-on approach ensures your replacement window and doors—installation quality, beauty, and energy savings—last for many years and adds value to your property.
• Unrivaled Beauty. Renewal by Andersen offers a wealth of replacement window styles, colors, and grilles to fit any Alaska home.

Overview of Better Business Bureau Ratings

The Better Business Bureau has empowered people to find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust for over 110 years. In 2021, people turned to BBB more than 200 million times for BBB Business Profiles on 6.3 million businesses and Charity Reports on 25,000 charities, for free at BBB.org. The International Association of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Renewal by Andersen of Alaska

Built on Andersen’s 115 years of quality, innovation, and craftsmanship, Renewal by Andersen leads the window and door replacement industry in quality and customer experience. From consultation and design to manufacturing, to installation… and service years later, we control the entire process, so you don’t have to.

Our customer reviews have earned us the title of Alaska’s Highest Rated Window and Door Company in each of the following regions: Anchorage and surrounding areas (Girdwood, Chugiak, Eagle River), Mat-Su Valley, Kenai Peninsula, Fairbanks, North Pole, Delta Junction, Valdez, Kodiak, and Juneau.

The post Renewal by Andersen of Alaska Named Accredited Business by the Better Business Bureau Since 2005 appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

Windows make your home beautiful from the inside out. They offer superior weather protection and help illuminate your living space. Like other parts of your house, they will eventually need to be replaced. When it’s time for a window replacement, you must choose the right material to make the most of your investment.  

While wood and vinyl are popular window materials, they are prone to warping. Keep reading to find out what causes this issue. 

What Causes Windows to Warp?

Warping is a common issue in vinyl and wood windows, causing bowing, bending, cupping and other deformities. Over time, the problem will worsen and start affecting your home’s curb appeal. Excessive moisture is the most typical reason windows warp.

Uneven absorption of moisture in your windows can cause stress. As a result, the window frame will expand and contract. The longer the exposure to moisture, the more lasting the effects of expansion and contraction will be. Temperature changes can also contribute to this issue. 

Moreover, dark-colored vinyl tends to absorb more heat from the sun. Windows on the southern part of a home receive more sun, making them more likely to warp. However, the sun alone can’t cause severe damage to your windows. It’s a combination of different factors such as airflow, finishing, grain orientation and temperature. 

How Do You Avoid This Issue?

Investing in replacement windows that withstand warping is one of the best things you can do for your home. At Renewal by Andersen® of Alaska, we install windows featuring our exclusive Fibrex® material. You can count on this material not to rot or warp even when exposed to high temperatures and moisture. 

Fibrex is a composite material made with wood fibers and polymer, possessing the durability and strength of wood and the low-maintenance features of vinyl. Our Fibrex windows have factory-applied coatings, offering better durability than paint. It’s guaranteed not to fade, peel or crack within the lifetime of the windows. 

Ensure your investment lasts long by trusting reliable window installers, like Renewal by Andersen of Alaska, for your project. We also install durable and energy-efficient patio doors. Call us or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We cater to clients in the Kenai Peninsula, The Valley, Fairbanks and Anchorage, AK.

The post What Causes Wood and Vinyl Windows to Warp? appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of Alaska.

When choosing a hinged vs. sliding patio door for your home, here’s what you should consider:

• Architectural style
• Room lighting
• Airflow
• Walkway and furniture placement
• Whether or not you want screens
• Do you have room for an inswing or outswing door

Pros & Cons: Hinged Door vs. Sliding Door

Hinged patio doors

Hinged patio doors can be opened to the full width of a door opening compared to sliding doors that open the width of one door. Hinged patio doors do not come with screens and require a storm door add-on if you want to keep bugs and the elements out.

Renewal by Anderson’s Frenchwood® hinged patio doors are built with the ability to choose a door that swings out or swings in. Therefore, this style of door requires more room than low-profile sliding patio doors. The traditional style of French hinged patio doors is a classic design option that adds value to any home.

Sliding patio doors

Sliding patio doors are easy to operate, take up very little space, let in a lot of light, allow for maximum ventilation, and are available with oversized screens. Sliding patio doors come in a wide variety of finishes and sizes so you get a look and scale that fits your home design. Sliding patio doors fit well with clean, contemporary architecture. They come with options like screen panels to let fresh air in while keeping dirt and insects out.

Renewal by Andersen of Alaska carries three types of sliding doors:

Perma-Shield® sliding doors are a contemporary style of door that provides the widest view with maximum glass area.

Frenchwood® sliding doors offer the traditional design of standard French doors but in a sliding door style.

Narroline® sliding patio doors are designed with vinyl-clad wood, a low-maintenance exterior, and a stainable natural pine interior.

How to choose an energy-efficient patio door

Whether you choose a hinged patio door or a sliding patio door it’s important to consider glass, energy ratings, and locks—all of the things that will keep you comfortable, save you money, and keep you safe.

Look for a patio door with a strong glass package: something with double or triple-pane glass and a Low-E coating to slow the transmission of UV rays and conserve up to 50% of your heat during winter months.

It’s also important to look for a patio door that is ENERGY STAR® Certified. ENERGY STAR® ratings indicate a door meets federally mandated guidelines regarding energy efficiency. Doors that show the ENERGY STAR® Certified rating have:

• Multiple glass panes
• Energy-efficient core material
• Magnetic weatherstripping
• A tight fit

Still wondering which patio door type is right for you?

We offer free consultations to connect you with an expert from our team. We’ll answer any project questions you have and can talk you through the replacement process from quote to installation.

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