Exterior Custom Solutions Blog

Are you looking or maybe even just thinking about getting your windows replaced? You’re in the right spot. Now, there are a few companies that offer replacement windows, like Exterior Custom Solutions. But… who do you go with? You don’t have to know anything about windows to get started. Maybe you just hate the style, color, or even the location of your current windows. Your windows could be 20+ years old or have drafts and condensation. Whatever your situation may be, replacing is always a smart decision as a homeowner. Your next step is to think about what TYPE of company you are looking to work with? Around the Fox Valley, you’ll find corporations, specialists, family-owned businesses, and more. We are a family-owned company that specializes in windows, so your best bet is to start off with a free, no obligation estimate, here at Exterior Custom Solutions. Why, might you ask? We offer TONS of customization options for windows, doors, siding, and even bath/shower module replacement. We also GUARANTEE you to save 35% minimum when you replace all your windows with us because our windows are the best in the industry, and we stand behind that. Our representatives are very knowledgeable and will be able to answer all your questions about our products and inform you of the benefits that come with a high-quality product. Your next step would be to make a decision. Decide what type of product you’re looking for, obtain the correct pricing for it, and see if the benefits are worth the money. An investment like new windows for your home can and will end up saving you money and after just a couple of years, they pay for themselves. Because we are a full-service company, we will bring you through the whole process and install them for you, making it as painless as we possibly can. Starting to upgrade your home doesn’t have to be a hassle. All exterior upgrades increase the value and help the curb appeal of your home. If you give us the green light, rest assured, we’ll get it done right!

During this cold time of year, you may be noticing frost slowly creep up the panes of your windows. While this may look like a work of art, it’s really a warning sign for future issues when not treated correctly. WHY ARE MY WINDOWS FROSTY? If you have frost on your windows, it’s probably for one of two reasons. Either your windows are older, maybe even original to the home, or if your windows are newer and you’re experiencing frost, it’s probably due to incorrect installation and leakage. Frost forms when the outside temperature is colder than the inside climate of your home and there is more moisture in the air that forms condensation on the windows, that now freeze over. If you take a look at the difference in technology of windows throughout the years, you’ll notice a change from single pane to double pane, to even triple pane windows being produced and used more often. A multiple pane windows contains gasses that are denser than air. These gasses help maintain the inside temperature of your home and create a barrier against the exterior cold temperatures. WHY IS FROST AN ISSUE? Frost is moisture that is currently frozen, but when the temperature rises outside, it melts. The moisture then travels to the frame, wall, or insulation of the window, eventually compromising the security of your windows and even creating mold. HOW TO PREVENT WINDOW FROST? Although there are many ways to prevent frost before the next cold season, they are not ideal for every homeowner. Wrapping or sealing windows is something you may notice people adhere to older windows when the season arises. Not only does this look tacky, but it can be a hassle as plastic windows don’t work in every situation and can even lead to more mold build up. Running a dehumidifier is another way that could help with keeping the inside air dry but does not provide a permanent solution. In a perfect situation, you should choose to install new windows. Replacing old technology, single panes with double or triple pane windows will create a barrier that slows down and can even eliminate any moisture and temperature compensation.

When should you repair and when should you replace? Well, we’re here to help you figure that out. When it comes to thinking about repairing or replacing windows and doors, there is probably a problem area that comes to mind. There are benefits and disadvantages that can come with both replacing and repairing anything in your home. TIME TO REPLACE When replacing windows, you are guaranteed to save money on your rising energy bills. Companies like ours, Exterior Custom Solutions, that allow customization, will not make a homeowner settle for an inferior performing product. Replacing windows or doors in your home will give you peace of mind to never replace again. The new technology that comes with a brand-new product will last longer and provide you with a lifetime warranty to guarantee you a hassle-free future. Most older products do not provide a transferable warranty. When purchasing, we guarantee a transferable warranty for any unexpected changes that may occur. New windows and doors provide a huge upgrade in security that comes from up-to-date technology and materials. SHOULD I REPAIR? Repairing may be a cheaper option right now but will end up costing you more down the line. Seal failure can result in leaking out of the glass. This leads to fogging between the panes, which cannot be fixed with a simple repair. When repairing your doors, it will not lead to the peace of mind that the security of a new door can provide. Repairing your windows or doors is like a Band-Aid. It may not solve the root of the problem and those previous problem areas will always be there in the future, whereas new windows or doors, are like starting from scratch. Now you decide, repair or replace?