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art_eric
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RE: Ever notice how double glazing can cut down on street noise too?
I hear this a lot from customers - stick-on films just don’t cut it for real noise. I’ve seen folks try layered curtains, even bookshelves in front of windows, but honestly, double glazing’s the only thing I’ve seen make...
RE: Keeping rooms bright but cool - how do you do it?
Low-e coatings are a solid choice - honestly, I recommend them a lot, especially for older builds where you’re fighting both heat and drafts. Interesting you didn’t see much impact on the plants. I’ve had clients get ner...
RE: Dealing with sweaty windows: Which Energy Star brands actually help?
Did you notice if the condensation is mostly on the glass or right around the frame? Sometimes folks swap windows but keep the old interior trim, and that can make a difference. Also, how high are you running the humidif...
RE: Cellular shades vs. heavy curtains: which keeps the house warmer?
That’s a solid experiment - actually measuring the temp difference is more than most folks do. I’ve seen similar results in a bunch of older homes I’ve worked on, especially where the windows are original and drafty. Cur...
RE: Cheap tricks for keeping car windows clear in the morning
That’s a solid rundown. I’ve seen folks slap silicone on just about everything, but you’re right - it rarely lasts on cars, especially with all the flexing and temp swings. Seam sealer really does hold up better, even if...
RE: ENERGY TAX CREDIT PAPERWORK IS DRIVING ME NUTS - ANYONE ELSE?
That hits a little too close to home. Last week, I spent almost an hour trying to get a straight answer from a supplier about whether a patio door met the latest U-factor threshold for the credit. I swear, every time I t...
RE: Trying to decide between Andersen and Pella windows - any thoughts?
You’re right to be cautious about installation - honestly, even the best window can be a headache if it’s not put in right. I’ve seen jobs where the crew rushed and left gaps or didn’t square things up, and then the home...
RE: Can skylights and patio doors count for those energy tax credits?
Yeah, the whole “looks the same but doesn’t qualify” thing happens more than folks realize. I’ve had homeowners swear their new slider would get the credit, only to find out it missed by a hair on the U-factor. Skylights...
RE: Torn between Simonton's contemporary vs traditional picture window styles
I've installed quite a few contemporary-style windows lately, and honestly, noise levels can vary quite a bit depending on the glass package rather than just the style itself. Last summer, I replaced a client's tradition...
RE: Rain sneaking in around my window - caulk or weather stripping?
Yeah, that's exactly it. Have you checked if the window frame itself is still in good shape? Sometimes tiny cracks or warping in the wood or vinyl can let moisture sneak in, no matter how well you caulk or weatherstrip. ...