With Christmas now behind us, it’s time to start cleaning the artificial snow off your windows and doors to get them back to their usual condition. Clean-up is fairly simple, but with these tips shared by Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA, it becomes even easier!

Vacuum It Up

The easiest way to clean up loose snow that’s still adhered to the window, lying on the window sill or accumulated on the floor beneath your window or door is with a vacuum. First, use the crevice tool attachment to get in all the cracks and corners, then use an attachment with bristles on the window glass itself. Finally, use the vacuum to get up anything remaining on the ground.

Avoid Scraping

Vacuuming will inevitably leave some residue behind, but the worst thing you can do to try to remove it is to scrape it. Not only can scraping artificial snow off glass potentially scratch and permanently damage the glass, it will also fly everywhere, making another mess for you to clean up. A much better method is to clean the glass one small section at a time with glass cleaner. After spraying the snow, let the cleaner soak in for about 30 seconds. Then, using a compact paper towel square, rub in a circle, applying moderate pressure until the residue begins to come off. Repeat until the entire surface of the glass is clear.

At Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA, we have the knowledge and experience to take care of all your window and door needs. Give us a call today at 610-798-1708 to find out more about the excellent products we carry or to schedule a FREE in-home consultation.

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Birds are chirping, trees and flowers are blooming, and warmer weather is becoming the norm. Spring has sprung, but chances are your home decor doesn’t yet reflect these changes. To help transition your home from winter to spring, here are four quick and easy tips!

• Replace thick, heavy drapes with light, airy curtains. Window treatments meant to keep heat in and cold air out can make your home feel dark and dreary. Let in the light and welcome spring into your home by hanging sheer, lightweight curtains over your windows. Not only will this brighten up your home, the gauzy material blowing in a fresh spring breeze will definitely dispel any lingering winter vibes. If you prefer a little more privacy, pair them with lighter, solid-colored curtain panels.
• Add splashes of color with spring accessories. To really make your place feel like spring, use accessories to bring pops of color into your home. These can include small touches like bright throw pillows, a colorful picture frame or seasonal painting, or something bigger like a vibrantly colored accent chair. However you choose to accessorize, make sure to spread the love by spacing the color around the room.
• Use flowers and plants to bring the outside in. Cheerful flowers and interesting greenery can really liven up your home, as well as bring the outdoors in. This is especially beneficial if you’re not able to get outside as often as you would like. Not only will plants help purify your indoor air, they’re also great for lifting the spirits.
• Clean your windows until they sparkle. You won’t be able to properly enjoy the world coming back to life outside your windows if your glass is dirty and smudged. Take the time to clean your windows until they shine! To learn the proper way to do this, check out these spring cleaning tips.

Trust Renewal by Andersen for Your Window Replacement Project

If your windows are old and damaged, they won’t be able to keep your home energy-efficient. If installing new replacement windows is on your spring maintenance to-do list this year, Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA can help. Give us a call today at 610-798-1708 or contact us online to find out what we can do for you!

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Window condensation can be caused by a number of factors. Though it can be the result of leaky or inefficient windows, there often are other factors that are no cause for concern. To help you better understand the phenomenon, check out these commonly asked questions about condensation and windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does condensation happen?

In the spring and fall, when warm days are followed by cool nights, it’s not uncommon to see condensation on cars and grass. This comes from the same source as the condensation on the outside of your windows: dew. Exterior window condensation occurs when the temperature of the exterior glass surface falls below the dew point, and this is more likely to happen in areas of high humidity.

Should I be concerned about exterior condensation?

Dew on the outside of your windows isn’t something you need to worry about. It’s a natural phenomenon caused by atmospheric factors, not malfunctioning or leaky windows. In actuality, it’s more likely a sign of the superior energy efficiency of your windows, since it means the outer pane of your window has been insulated from indoor heat.

What’s the best way to handle interior condensation?

If your windows are regularly covered by curtains or drapes, you may notice condensation building up on the glass behind them. This is because curtains prevent warm interior air from flowing over the windows and warming up the surface of the glass. Leaving drapes and other window coverings open during daylight hours can reduce this problem, while allowing the sun to warm your room during the fall and winter months.

Interior window condensation is the result of excessive moisture in the house. Here are a few things you can do to combat this annoying issue:

• Use your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to vent excess moisture.
• Open your windows for short periods of time as weather permits to allow warm, moist air to escape.
• Operate ceiling fans in a clockwise direction to help circulate air and push warm air down from the ceiling.

Can condensation damage my windows?

If you have an ongoing condensation problem, there is the possibility of window damage occurring if it continues. Excess moisture can damage a window frame, as well as cause paint to peel from the sash.

How do window coverings contribute to condensation?

If your windows are regularly covered by curtains or drapes, you may notice condensation building up. This is because they prevent warm air from the room from flowing over and warming up the surface of the glass. Leaving drapes and other window coverings open during daylight hours can reduce this problem as well as help warm up your room during the fall and winter months.

Combining Beauty & Energy-Efficiency

If it has been determined that your condensation issues are, in fact, caused by failing windows, we invite you to contact Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA at 610-798-1708 or contact us online to find out more about our replacement windows. We’ll help you choose beautiful, energy-efficient windows that will complement your home and help lower your energy bills. We can also help you learn more about humidity levels in the home and the common causes of window condensation.

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Although most homeowners don’t think of winter as ideal for installing replacement windows, it can actually be a great time to replace windows that are outdated and drafty. Fortunately, with Renewal by Andersen’s winter installation system, our experts can replace your windows with ease at any point in the season. The weather is no obstacle!

Our Winter Installation System

Windows that don’t seal correctly can send energy bills skyrocketing and negatively affect your comfort all winter. While it may seem counter-productive to replace your windows in the winter, Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive winter installation system ensures that the job will be done properly and your home will receive minimal exposure to the elements. To achieve this, our expert installers block off each room they’re working in, installing the windows one at a time to limit heat loss.

The Importance of Teamwork

Homeowners are amazed at how quickly our installers can remove an old window and put in the new one – on average, in less than five minutes! The reason this process works so seamlessly is because our crews work in pairs, with one on the inside of the house and one working from the outside. This ensures that the windows are replaced quickly and efficiently, with minimal heat loss, and cuts down on the mess by keeping mud and snow outside where they belong – instead of being tracked into the house on the installers’ boots.

With Renewal by Andersen’s extensive experience in winter installation, you can rest easy knowing that your windows will be properly replaced in as little as one day. This will allow you to spend the rest of your winter in the comfort of a snug, comfortable, draft-free home!

Learn More About Winter Window Installation

Don’t put your window replacement project off any longer. Call Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA today at 610-798-1708 or contact us online to find out how our winter installation system can save you money year-round.

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Renewal by Andersen® windows aren’t “one size fits all.” That’s why we offer two different methods of installing our replacement windows. Read on to learn which replacement method could be the right fit for your home.

The Insert Window Installation Method

An insert window is a new window that is inserted into an existing frame. This method is a good option if the old frame and sill are still in good condition, or if you don’t want the casing and trim around the window to be removed during the installation.

Here’s How It Works: During an insert window installation, one of our professionals will take out the sash, interior and exterior stops and any interfering trim or hardware. Next, they’ll remove any weights and pulleys and insulate gaps and weight pockets left behind. The frame surface is then readied, and the insert is placed in the prepared opening, leaving the casing and frame intact throughout the entire process.

The Result: An energy-efficient window with High-Performance Low-E4® SmartSun glass and strong, sleek Fibrex® material that gives you a thinner frame and more visible glass area than other replacement window options.

The Full Frame Window Installation Method

If your old window frame leaks or is warped or rotted, you’ll want to go with a full frame window replacement. This is also the preferred method if you’re opting for a larger window style or your home requires large window openings due to fire egress codes.

• With a full frame replacement, the entire window – sash, frame and trim – is removed, leaving a rough opening. The installer then inspects the structural framing, repairing or replacing materials as needed. The drip cap and flashing are both thoroughly checked to ensure that no moisture can make its way into the walls surrounding the new window. Then any gaps are filled with insulation and the opening is prepped for the new window.
• Next, the is placed in the prepared opening and brought to square, insulated and cased with trim.

The Result: An extremely strong window made of Fibrex material with highly energy-efficient High-Performance Low-E4® SmartSun glass of new construction quality.

Find the Right Method for You

If you’re unsure which window replacement method works best for your situation, contact Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA today at 610-798-1708 or via our online form. Our representatives will help you schedule a FREE consultation to determine the right window installation method for your home.

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Condensation on your windows or patio doors is more than just a nuisance – the water dripping down your windows and obscuring your view may also be a warning sign that there’s too much moisture inside your house. For this reason, it’s important to recognize when the humidity in your home has risen beyond recommended levels.

Comfortable Humidity Levels in the Home

Humidity has a big effect on how comfortable you will be inside your home this winter. The right amount of moisture in the air will help keep your throat and nasal passages from drying out and prevent dry, itchy skin. Some people also find it easier to breathe in air that’s moist. In the winter, the majority of people find a relative indoor humidity of 25-60% and an indoor temperature of 65-70℉ to be comfortable. Those who suffer from asthma or allergies should never let humidity levels rise above 65% because this could lead to an upper respiratory infection.

How to Determine the Humidity in Your Home

Measuring the level of humidity in your home can be done easily using a hygrometer, which is an inexpensive instrument found at most hardware stores. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for other signs of excess humidity, such as water-filled blisters on exterior painted surfaces or damp spots on closet ceilings. If you think you might have a humidity problem, check out our blog with tips on how to reduce humidity levels in your home.

Do You Need Replacement Windows?

If you find that indoor humidity is under control but your old windows and glass doors are still having condensation problems, it may be time to consider installing replacement windows. Give Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA a call at 610-798-1708 or contact us online and we’ll be glad to introduce you to a variety of high-quality, energy-efficient models.

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At Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA, one of the most common questions we’re asked is, “How much do replacement windows cost?” The answer to this question varies. The simple truth is that each job is a custom project, and there are many factors that cause the cost to vary. The only way to accurately assess cost is with an in-home consultation, where a design consultant will talk to you, listen to your needs and offer education and a custom solution for your biggest investment – your home.

The Evaluation Process

With a simple evaluation of your home and the windows to be replaced, a design consultant from Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA can determine the condition of your windows and their frames, measure the window openings and evaluate options. This is a sizable investment for any homeowner, so it’s important to know how to cut costs while still ending up with high-quality, energy-efficient windows. For example, one of our consultants may suggest replacing an existing two- or three-window configuration with one larger window, which will make a statement while saving you money.

Why a Design Consultant Is Invaluable

By having one of our design consultants confer with you in your home, you’ll have access to an expert in the window world. Instead of spending hours researching which window styles will work best with your home’s style, you’ll benefit from a professional who listens to your wants and needs and offers customized solutions.

Our consultants can also advise you on current design trends and offer design solutions to reduce costs. They’ll ensure the window style you choose will increase the beauty and curb appeal of your home and work well with its architecture. The most important point is that our design consultants won’t pressure you. They’ll listen, offer customized solutions and leave you with a detailed estimate containing exact pricing information.

Schedule a Consultation With Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA

The next time you wonder how much it will cost to replace your windows, give Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA a call at (610) 849-2800 or contact us online. One of our design consultants will be happy to set up a free in-home consultation to plan a custom solution for your home.

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For Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA, the time of year we’ve anxiously been waiting for has arrived. Home show season is finally here! Our marketing teammates have laced up their most comfortable shoes and are ready to answer all your questions about replacement windows and patio doors (all while following current guidelines to keep you safe). This is our most exciting time of year because we get to bring our showroom to you, tell you about Renewal by Andersen and help you find the best solution for your replacement window and patio door needs.

How to Get the Most Out of a Home Show

Attending a home show can be a daunting task for many people. Aisle after aisle of home improvement companies showcasing their products, the newest inventions and the greatest deals of the year can wear out a home show attendee very quickly. This is why our home show marketing veterans at Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA came up with this list of tips for anyone planning on attending a home show this year.

1. Plan ahead. Before you do anything else, ask yourself WHY you’re attending the home show. Is it to get landscaping ideas? Do you need new windows? Do you like the idea of granite countertops in your kitchen? Or maybe you’d like all three! Make a list and number your goals based on level of importance. New windows may be a necessity because your current ones are leaking cold air, or perhaps the landscaping needs to be done around the pool you had installed last summer. You may also want to give your kitchen a fresh new look with granite countertops. Once you’ve figured out your why, find out which companies at the show can handle your anticipated project.
2. Research. Home show attendees are more informed now than ever before. Walking into a show, many already have a particular home improvement project in mind and have Googled the show map and compiled a list of vendors they’d like to speak with. By following this same plan, you’ll become better informed, which can save you a lot of time and hassle. Check out the companies’ websites, compile a list of the ones that are the most reputable and have the best reviews, and make it a point to visit with them. This will help you maximize your time at the show and prioritize the appointments you make with potential companies.
3. Set appointments. Most home improvement companies can’t give you a quote on the spot at a home show, especially if the majority of their work is custom. Therefore, you’ll be asked to set up an appointment to get an estimate on a particular project. Most in-home consultations involve all homeowners and take approximately 60-90 minutes. Our recommendation is to walk the entire show and talk to those who are on your list. Then, take a few minutes and circle back around, stopping at the ones who stood out to you. Set up appointments with the best of the best, limiting them to no more than three similar companies per home improvement project. You’ll be able to make an informed decision and compare pricing – all while keeping your sanity intact!
4. Enjoy. Home shows are meant to be enjoyable. Our marketing team has fun at home shows, and our goal is to make sure you enjoy them, too. Be sure to allow yourself enough time to talk to everyone and take in the atmosphere of the show; some people who get too harried don’t appreciate that the businesses are there for the benefit of potential customers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, try samples, test new products and learn what’s best for you and your home. And, most importantly, have fun!

Get the Best Products & Services

If you want to install new windows and patio doors in your home but don’t have time to attend a home show, give Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA a call at 610-798-1708 to schedule a free in-home consultation. If you need help choosing the best windows and patio doors for your home, our experienced designers and product specialists are always happy to help.

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As spring draws closer, many homeowners welcome the approach of the new season by beginning their yearly spring cleaning. Windows may be one of the least popular of these essential cleaning annual tasks, but replacement windows from Renewal by Andersen^® are a cinch to clean and maintain!

What to Use to Clean Windows

Did you know that using standard glass cleaner and paper towels to clean windows is one of the least effective methods? You’re basically moving the dirt around while creating a static charge on the glass that will only attract more dust and dirt. It’s much better to follow the example of professionals and use a lint-free cloth, squeegee and mild soap and water (or vinegar and water) to clean the glass. Never use newspaper to clean because the ink may stain your window frames.

Steps to Clean Renewal by Andersen^® Double-Hung Windows

1. If your window has an interior grille, remove it from its clips and set it aside.
2. Unlock the window and lift up the lower sash enough that your closed fist will fit between the bottom of the sash and the frame. Pull down the wash assist tabs from the top of the window and press them into the top of the lower sash frame until you hear a clicking sound, and then grasp the top corners of the lower sash and tilt it in.
3. Once the glass is clean, rest the sash on the sill or a sturdy object such as a stool. You’ll then push the tabs back up to the top of the frame before lowering, and lower the upper sash until you can safely reach into the top of the upper sash. Inside the top of the sash, you’ll find two small clips. Squeeze these in, and you can then tilt the window in and continue your cleaning.
4. When you’re finished, push the upper sash back into the frame. Pull it down slightly until you hear it “twang” back into place, and then raise it all the way back up. Do the same with the lower sash, listening for the twanging sound.
5. Replace the grille, if applicable, and that’s all there is to it!

Click here to see these steps demonstrated in our window cleaning video

Contact Us Today for More Information

Feel free to check out our Window Care & Maintenance page for more tips on how to clean Renewal replacement windows. If you have further questions, contact us at 610-798-1708 or submit our online form. Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA is the company homeowners can trust for top-quality windows and patio doors!

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In addition to replacing your old, dysfunctional windows with newer models, you can also utilize window treatments to make your home more energy-efficient. Here is a list of treatments that can make your replacement windows even better:

• Draperies. Depending on the type of fabric and its color, draperies have the capacity to reduce heat gain and loss. Conventional draperies can reduce heat loss up to 10%, while medium-colored drapes with insulated backings can reduce heat gain by more than 30%.
• Shades. Shades are the simplest type of window covering, yet they have the highest capacity for energy efficiency. They are also fairly easy to install. Shades can add style to your interior, and they work well with other window treatments such as draperies.
• Blinds. Unlike shades, with blinds, you can adjust the slats to control light and ventilation. Highly reflective blinds reduce heat gain by approximately 45% and can also be adjusted to block direct sunlight.
• Hinged shutters. Not only do shutters help reduce heat gain and loss in your home, they offer weather protection and increased security, as well. In addition, they can be installed on either the interior or exterior of a property and bring a touch of traditional design to any home.

All of these window treatments are effective at saving energy and protecting your home from the elements, and any of them would be an ideal complement to your new replacement windows from Renewal by Andersen®.

Learn More About Our Products

When you choose Renewal by Andersen® for replacement windows and patio doors, you’ll enjoy lower maintenance and increased energy efficiency. When installed by our team of professional home improvement experts, Renewal by Andersen windows are the most beneficial ones you’ll find. Give Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA a call and we’ll tell you more about it. Our number is 610-798-1708, or you can complete our online contact form to request more information.

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