Window Caulking Tips and Tricks You Can Do Yourself

Do you want to know one of the most effective and easiest methods to improve your home’s energy efficiency? Then answer is optimal window insulation! In fact, window caulking is one of the most common best practices for reducing energy consumption while still maintaining comfortable indoor environments. So, it’s important to know the condition of your existing window caulking if you want to improve your energy efficiency, save money on monthly utility bills, and feel more comfortable indoors.

Continue reading to learn more about the ins and outs of window caulking, including some tips and tricks for leaks, weatherstripping replacement, and more.

Window Repair and Replacement 317-454-3612
Window Repair and Replacement 317-454-3612

Window Leaks

A gap as little as an eighth of an inch can lose just as much conditioned air as a window open six inches or more. A tiny air leak really does make a difference. Large or small, a leak must be stopped as soon as possible, or it will affect several other areas of a home. To check for air leaks, you must first wait for a still day, and then turn on your attic fan to create negative pressure indoors. You can also turn a bathroom or stove fan on if you do not have an attic. Light some incense and carry it from window to window, looking for drifting smoke. Since checking for air leaks is a tricky task, calling a professional might be the best option for all home and property owners.

To fix these leaks yourself, simply purchase a good-quality quick-release caulking gun and caulk bottles from your local hardware store, and address the issue head on. But for those who are not very “hands-on” when it comes to home repair, contact a local handyman for professional assistance and service. Fixing window leaks will greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Window Caulking Tips

The best climate for effective window caulking is mild, dry, and warm weather. It’s best to wait until it is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit before caulking windows. For this reason, Hoosiers are encouraged to have their windows inspected and re-caulked at the start of spring, and before summertime. Also, don’t stop at windows when checking for air leaks, be sure to inspect doors as well. And be sure to check your home for window and door leaks on a routine basis.

Indianapolis Window Repair and Replacement You Can Trust

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 when you are looking for qualified general contracting services for window repair and replacement in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

How to Solve a Door Slamming Problem

Aside from teens experiencing the occasional mood swing, doors that are prone to slamming may be caused by something easily fixable. Whether it’s a hinge defect or interior shifts of air, door slamming problems can quickly become a thing of the past for your home with a few simple tips.

Continue reading to learn how to solve a door slamming problem once and for all!

Door and Window Contractors 317-454-3612

Door and Window Contractors 317-454-3612

What’s Causing the Force?

Have you ever seen a door slam shut for no apparent reason? Well, it’s nothing to fear; there are several reasons why doors are prone to slamming when left open. The most common reason has to do with pressure changes in areas near the door. Pressure changes occur when air moves from an area with high pressure, to an area with low pressure. For instance, a window left open in the next room can cause an open door to slam shut. Other reasons for slamming doors include faulty hinges and structural unevenness, both of which are repairable.

Hinges and Framing

Start off by checking the door itself. When door hinges are worn down or not installed properly, they can cause a door to be more prone to swinging and slamming. See if the hinges are even, flat against the frame, and screwed in tightly. If the hinge is loose, simply tighten the screws back up with a screw driver.

If the hinges are not the problem, take a look at the actual door. Doors that are not perfectly vertical are not evenly balanced in weight. This can cause it to slam shut at the slightest touch or draft. The best way to fix an unbalanced door is to replace it with a new one. Check with your local home improvement store to see what your purchasing options are near you.

Air Pressure and Cross Breezes

If the hinges and door are not the culprit to the frequent slamming, it is likely just the way the air flows and changes pressure through your home. In this case, you can try to implement some strategies to reduce the force of the shutting, or eliminate it all together. Here are some effective and affordable ideas:

Use Door Stoppers – A simple floor wedge will do the trick. When you have a window or screen door open in the house, just slide one underneath to prevent sudden slamming.

Use Felt Pads – Self-stick felt pads provide cushioning and reduce the force of door slamming. Place a pad at the bottom, top, and both sides of the frame for best results.

Install Weather Stripping – Just like felt pads, weather stripping will add cushioning, thus reducing the force and sound of the slamming action. This is recommended for heavier doors.

Install a Pneumatic Closer – If nothing seems to work, you can install a pneumatic closer. These are small air-powered devices that slow down the swing of a closing door.

Indianapolis Window and Door Repair

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis door and window repair and installation services at competitive prices. Our window and door contractors always show up on-time and fully equipped to complete the job at hand, in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Request a written estimate, today.

The Easiest Way to Clean Window Blinds

You might be putting off cleaning your window blinds because it can feel like a big waste of time. After all, no matter how careful you are, dust seems to fly everywhere and settle right back in the very same spot. So it is understandable for you to ask yourself, “What’s the point?”

Well, blind cleaning is important for maintaining health levels of indoor air quality and comfort, as well as, extending the life of your windows and insulation. The problem you are having likely has to do with ineffective technique. Learning some easier and more efficient methods of cleaning might just motivate you to clean your blinds more often!

Keep reading to learn how to clean blinds without a fuss.

Indianapolis Window Replacement 317-454-3612

Indianapolis Window Replacement 317-454-3612

Cleaning Window Blinds

Aside from technique, tools and products play a major role in the ease of window blind cleaning. Using a higher quality product or tool can mean all the difference when it comes to dusting blinds. For instance, a standard sheet of paper towel will not pick up dust and dirt; it will only spread it around some more. But if you trade out a sheet of paper towel for a microfiber cloth, dry sponge, or lamb’s wool duster, you will get more gratifying results.

Materials like microfiber rags and lamb’s wool dusters effectively pick up and hold on to dust particles. In addition to these materials, the process is made easiest when you follow up with a vacuum cleaner and brush attachment. Just be sure your vacuum basin and filters are clear before you begin. Quality products are another huge influential factor. A blind cleaner or shine product will provide a persistent luster, making your blinds appear cleaner for longer.

How to Get Started:

First use the vacuum brush attachment and suction across the blind slats from side to side. This will suction up all the loose dust and debris, making it easier to get a more thorough clean in the following steps.

Next, use your lamb’s wool duster, dry sponge, or microfiber cloth to firmly wipe off the slats, using the same side to side motion. If blinds are vertical, wipe from top to bottom in an up and down motion to prevent entanglement and breakage.

Now it is time to use your product. This can be an all-purpose cleaner or a product specially formulated and designed for cleaning blinds. Be sure the product is safe to use on the material of your blinds. Wood blinds will require a separate formula than vinyl or plastic blinds.

Apply the cleaning solution spray to a clean cloth and wipe each slat individually for a thorough comb-through. Just do not spray the cleaner onto your blinds, directly.

For Fabric Blinds:

If you have fabric blinds, you should take them to a dry cleaner. Wooden blinds should not be soaked in water or any other type of heavy solution. Take caution when cleaning wood blinds with a cleaner and do not let the wood get too wet.

For Metal Blinds:

Metal blinds need to be removed, taken outside, placed on a large blanket or rug, and power sprayed with a hose. Before spraying with a hose, add a few drops of dishwashing liquid and scrub the planks with a cleaning brush. Then rinse thoroughly with a hose supplied with clean water. Allow them to dry for 12 hours and then replace them back to their original spot.

Indianapolis Window Replacement and Installation

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis window replacement and installation services you can trust. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of fellow general contractors, are licensed and qualified to replace, repair, and install all make and model windows, frames, and more for both commercial and residential properties. Request an estimate, today.

The 3 Biggest Differences Between Residential and Commercial Windows

Window Repair and Replacement 317-454-3612

Window Repair and Replacement 317-454-3612

Often times, commercial property owners who need to replace their business’s windows are at a loss for words after they learn how much the project will cost. This confusion generally stems from making the mistake of comparing the price of commercial windows with the cost of residential windows. Why such a difference in price? There are many reasons, all of which vary from project to project depending on several factors, including quantity, square-footage, material grades, labor, and more.

However, there are 3 major differences between commercial and residential windows that you should know in order to better understand your final estimate. Continue reading to learn what these three differences are and how they impact the total cost of procurement.

❶ Commercial Properties are Internal Load Dominated Buildings

Internal load dominated building is a term used in the commercial construction industry to describe the solar heat gain potential of large, heavily-populated properties. Large buildings that have a large amount of people and equipment generate a lot of heat. For this reason, commercial properties are built using windows with specialized solar glazing that limits solar heat gain. Without these windows, commercial properties can expect extreme energy spending. Residential homes are envelope load dominated buildings, meaning they are not crowded nor do they generate excessive levels of internal heat. In fact, homes rely on sunlight as an assisted energy-efficient heating source.

❷ The North American Fenestration Standard Rating System

The North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS) is a national window rating system. It is an important system based on several factors, including the ability to bear load, resist wind, and more. They are especially important for middle to high-rise buildings because they experience higher wind pressures and heavier loads. The NAFS includes four ratings: Residential (R), Light Commercial (LC), Commercial Windows (CW), and Architectural Windows (AW). Windows must meet these standards in order to be approved for commercial use.

❸ Manufacturing and Installation Require More

Because commercial grade windows are heavier and thicker, they require more materials for construction and custom manufacturing. This makes them more expensive compared to residential windows, which are smaller, less heavy-duty, and do not require specialized glazing or solar-resistant coating. Not only does the construction of these windows require more material (which costs more), they take more labor and specialized construction equipment (i.e. cranes, lifts, scaffolding, etc.) to install. This also increases the cost.

Indianapolis Window Installation Contractors

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Property Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable window installation services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about commercial remodel planning, prices, and process. And best of all, we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Call 317-454-3612 and speak with an friendly contractor about your Indianapolis window repair and replacement needs, today.

How to Open a Frozen Window in Your Home

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

There are so many variables that can come together and cause windows in your home to freeze shut. Dripping water, outdoor temperatures, indoor temperatures, humidity, excessive snow, leaks in the roof, deteriorated caulking or window stripping, and much more are just a few examples of potential influences that cause windows to freeze shut. Frozen windows are not only frustrating, they are a hazard to have in your home. And attempting to open a window that has frozen shut can potentially cause personal injuries,
as well as, structural damages to your home.

For these reasons and more, it is important to fix frozen windows using safe and proper techniques. Quickly address any window-sticking issues you have in your home before they can become larger problems down the line. Continue reading to learn how to open frozen house windows this winter.

What You’ll Need

When it comes to opening a window that has been frozen shut, it will not be your manual strength that makes it all happen. A frozen window can be near impossible to open with mere strength, no matter how much weight lifting a person has accomplished in a lifetime! In fact, attempting to do so can potentially cause serious bodily harm, like muscle strains and back injuries. Also, attempting to open a frozen window using the incorrect techniques and tools can cause costly structural damage to windows, drywall, framing, and more. So avoid these issues by following the recommended steps for fixing a frozen-shut window. Start by gathering the necessary supplies:

• Hair Dryer
• Clean Towels
• Small Broom or Handheld Cleaning Brush

How to Get Started

First, if your indoor temperature is set below 65 degrees, start by turning up the heat in your home. Allow the heat to set in for an hour or so, and then you can move forward with the next step. This will dry the air inside your home, as well as, decrease the condensation within the window.

Next, get bundled up because you have to go outside! If the frozen window is a second or third story window, skip this step. For 1st floor windows, go outside and brush off standing snow and ice from the outer areas of the window, frame, and seal. Use your handheld cleaning brush or a small broom. Also, check for dripping water or snow that is contacting the outside of the window and find a way to block it for the time being.

When finished, go back inside your house, and using your blow dryer on the hot setting, warm the inner perimeter of the window. This includes the entire frame, crevices, and seal. Simultaneously, use the clean towels on-hand to soak up any melting water. Continue this step for as long as it takes for the window to warm up and thaw (10-20 minutes).

Next, using the cushy part of your hand, push on the corners of the window frame (not the glass), gently applying pressure to all corners and edges in order to break loose any ice that may have formed inside the cracks. Now you are ready to try and open the window.

If it still won’t budge, repeat the blow drying and nudging process until it opens again.

Top Floor Windows

For windows on top story floors that have frozen shut, you can use the same process, minus going outside and brushing the snow away. If the blow dryer method will not work for top floor windows, call a professional window repair service for safe and prompt assistance.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

Home Repair Indianapolis Indiana

Home Repairs and Restoration 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for window repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, has the resources necessary to service and repair all types of windows at the most competitive price in town. We offer residential and commercial window repair services, as well as, all home remodeling and renovation services, and more. Call 317-454-3612 for information about affordable home window repair services in Indianapolis, IN today.

How to Replace a Broken Window Screen

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Routine window maintenance is important to achieve quality indoor climate control, as well as, whole-house energy efficiency and value. One of the most common, and frustrating, window casualties is a ripped or torn screen. When this happens, it is wise to replace the screen as soon as possible. Window screens serve many important purposes so it is important to keep them in tact all year long.

The idea of replacing a torn window screen may seem tedious, but it is in fact quite simple. With the right tools and a little instruction, anyone can install a new window screen on their own! Continue reading to how to replace a broken window screen in your home or office.

Getting Started…

First gather all the necessary tools and supplies for the job. Fortunately, everything you will need is easily attainable (any local hardware store) and inexpensive. This includes a new window screen of course. Here is a list of materials you will need to replace a window screen:

• New Window Screening
• New Spline (Rubber String)
• Two-Sided Rolling Spline Tool (Should Come with Spline)
• Utility Knife
• Flathead Screwdriver
• Clean Cloth or Rag
• Duct Tape
• Scissors

Once you have accumulated all the necessary tools and materials, you can get started by removing the window screen with frame from the window. Find a hard flat surface to work on and place the screen and frame there. Continue with the following steps:

1. Remove the existing spline from the window frame.

2. Once the spline is removed, the screen detaches easily. Use the head of the screwdriver to pry the screen from the frame if you have trouble disconnecting it.

3. Take your clean cloth and wipe down the bare frame, removing all the dirt in the grooves. To do this, place the cloth over the tip of the screwdriver and drag the flathead along the inside of the grooves.

4. Use the duct tape to secure the frame in place on all sides so that it cannot move.

5. Now you are ready to measure out a piece of new screen. Cut it larger than the surrounding width and height of the window frame.

6. Position the new screening over the window frame so that the entire frame is covered and then some. Hold in place with duct tape on the top side for added stability for the next step.

7. Use the convex side of the rolling spline tool to guide the new spline along the spline grooves in the window frame. Do this for the entire perimeter of the frame. For corners, use the flathead screwdriver to push the spline into place.

8. Once you reach the end, cut the spline with scissors.

9. Now go back over the perimeter of the spline again but with the concaved side of the roller tool.

10. Trim the excess screen off with your utility knife right above the top of the spline while holding down the screen as you cut. Hold the knife at a 45 degree angle and cut in a steady firm motion.

11. Slip the frame back into the window by pushing up and in, securing the metal window clips.

Professional Window Repair and Replacement

If you have a large-scale window repair and replacement project on your hands, call a licensed general contractor for professional and prompt service. They retain the proper tools, training, labor, and resources to undertake a window replacement and repair job in a time frame that’s convenient for you.

Restoration By L and B, LLC

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L and B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for window installation, repair, and replacement services in Indianapolis and its surrounding towns. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer your questions about residential or commercial window repair and replacement anytime. Additionally, we offer a wide range of remodeling and renovation services for the entire property! Call 317-454-3612 for prompt and professional window repair and replacement in Indianapolis, IN today.

Vinyl Window Replacement Information and Suggestions

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

For the majority of us, one of the most valuable assets we own is our home. To sustain or improve a home’s value, you must continually perform necessary upgrades, maintenance, and care. One very lucrative improvement to make to any home is window replacement. Not only can new windows increase a home’s energy efficiency, thus reducing utility bills, it can also drastically enhance its aesthetic appeal, which is great for re-sale purposes. Vinyl windows are a popular and reliable choice among home and business owners because of how easy and effective they are.

Continue reading to learn more about vinyl window replacement and suggestions for lucrative home remodeling projects.

Vinyl Window Installation

Vinyl windows are attractive, energy efficient, durable, and high-quality; and they come in a wide selection of styles, textures, and colors. When planning a project to replace your windows with vinyl ones, it is recommended to make two consideration before starting. These considerations will jump-start you on the right path for your individual window replacement needs. The first is your budget. Set a solid and realistic budget ahead of time, before even shopping for products, service, and supplies. By determining a budget first, you will experience less stress and temptation while shopping around for these things.

To help develop a realistic budget, you need to do some research. Research all the different costs associated with a window replacement job, and then look up specific brand names of window and compare prices. Keep in mind that sometime unexpected costs arise during a home remodeling project, so give yourself extra room in your budget to include unforeseen expenses.

The second consideration is to choose a reliable window contractor. They retain the proper tools, experience, training, and resources to provide accurate and skilled window replacement service at an affordable cost. And because of these resources and assets, they can do all this in a time-frame that’s convenient for you.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Home Repair Service
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional window replacement and installation services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of fellow general contractors, are licensed and qualified to replace, repair, and install all make and model windows, frames, and more for both commercial and residential properties. Call 317-454-3612 for free estimates and information regarding vinyl window installation in Indianapolis, IN today.

Information About Window Caulking

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Do you want to know one of the most effective and easiest methods to improve your home’s energy efficiency? Then answer is to properly caulk your windows. Window caulking is one of the most convenient and widely-practiced methods to decreasing energy consumption while maintaining comfortable indoor climates. It’s important to know how to check the integrity of your existing caulking, inspect for air leaks in your windows, and improve energy efficiency in other areas of your home.

Continue reading to learn more about the ins and outs of window caulking, and who to call for trusted window installation and repair services near you.

Window Leaks

A gap as little as an eighth of an inch can lose just as much conditioned air as a window open six inches or more. A tiny air leak really does make a difference. Large or small, a leak must be stopped as soon as possible or it will affect several other areas of a home. To check for air leaks, you must first wait for a still day, and then turn on your attic fan to create negative pressure indoors. You can also turn a bathroom or stove fan on if you do not have an attic. Light some incense and carry it from window to window, looking for drifting smoke. Since checking for air leaks is a tricky task, calling a professional might be the best option for all home and property owners.

To fix these leaks yourself, simply purchase a good-quality quick-release caulking gun and caulk bottles from your local hardware store, and address the issue head on. But for those who are not very “hands-on” when it comes to home repair, contact a local handyman for professional assistance and service. Fixing window leaks will greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Window Caulking Tips

The best climate for effective window caulking is mild, dry, and warm weather. It’s best to wait until it is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit before caulking windows. For this reason, Hoosiers are encouraged to have their windows inspected and re-caulked at the start of spring, and before summertime. Also, don’t stop at windows when checking for air leaks, be sure to inspect doors as well. And be sure to check your home for window and door leaks on a routine basis.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Home Repair Service
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional window repair and replacement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer your questions about window caulking, window repair, window replacement, and more for residential and commercial properties. We provide a wide range of remodeling and repair services, and offer the most competitive prices in town! Call 317-454-3612 and receive a free estimate for window repair in Indianapolis, IN today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Window Replacement and Window Repair

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

Home Remodeling and Repair 317-454-3612

It is in your budget’s best interest to assess your window repair and replacement needs before making any impulsive purchasing decisions. This is because many property owners make the mistake of assuming their windows need replaced, when in fact, a simple repair could be the best solution. Often times, companies will force the idea of new windows on property owners, with the promise of boosted energy efficiency. Although it is true that new windows are more energy-efficient, it is also true that it takes several years to make back on this type of investment; which can cost upwards of a few thousand dollars or more.

When it comes time to replace windows, it is encouraged to have a professional handyman or window contractor provide inspections and determine which windows need replaced, and which can simply be repaired at a lower cost. Continue reading to learn more about window repair and window replacement, and perhaps find the answers you are looking for today.

Is Window Rot Reversible?

You or a professional can inspect each window for decay, mold, or deterioration. But only a professional, will be able to repair window rot, jammed sashes, and broken window parts. Not all rot can be fixed or removed, especially if it has been there for a long time. In this case, a new window will need to be installed. It is important to find moisture accumulation and water leaks under window frames early on, to prevent extensive window rot and mold growth.

How Can I Fix Jammed Window Sashes?

If you have a problematic window that seems to jam when you try to open or close it, try rubbing a white candle on the bottom and the sides of the window. This will allow the frame to slide effortlessly through the window channels. If window sashes are painted shut, simply use a sash saw to cut through the paint. One pass-through should do the trick.

Can Old Windows Still Be Energy Efficient?

Instead of buying new windows to improve your home’s energy efficiency, have your windows serviced by a handyman or window contractor. They can apply caulk and weather seal your windows to prevent air from escaping or moisture getting inside. Most often, the old caulk is removed and replaced with fresh caulk. Professionals usually insist on completing this kind of project when the humidity levels are low and the outdoor temperature is above 45 degrees. Also, installing screen and storm windows can increase a property’s insulation and is much cheaper than replacing windows entirely. Consult a professional Indianapolis window repair and replacement contractor for expert advice and suggestions regarding window replacement and window repair.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for superior window repair and window replacement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of qualified and experienced general contractors are eager to answer your questions about window repair and replacement, any time. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial remodeling services, all at the most competitive prices in town! Call 317-454-3612 for more information about window replacement and repair in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding counties.