Windows discussions and local services.
katier75
Discussion activity
Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Ever notice how old houses have weirdly sized windows?
That’s a familiar scenario - those deep sills and heavy curtains really do trap moisture, especially in older homes with less insulation. I’ve tried drilling discreet vent holes at the top and bottom of the window recess...
RE: South-Facing Vs. East/West Windows for Winter Warmth - Which Works Better?
I get what you’re saying about the challenges with retrofitting overhangs - sometimes it’s just not worth the hassle, especially on older ranch-style homes where nothing is quite square. But I’d push back a bit on the id...
RE: How I Broke Down the Costs for New Windows Without Losing My Mind
I get wanting every line item broken down, but sometimes that level of detail isn’t practical - especially for smaller outfits. I’ve had a couple contractors who did solid work but just weren’t great at paperwork. Someti...
RE: Is it worth going solar for the panels or just for the rebate?
That nails it. I had a similar experience - jumped on the solar rebate, but my winter bills barely budged until I tracked down drafts and beefed up attic insulation. If your envelope isn’t tight, you’re basically heating...
RE: WHAT DID YOU WISH YOU KNEW BEFORE REPLACING YOUR OWN WINDOWS?
That condensation issue is more common than people expect, especially in older homes that suddenly get a big upgrade in airtightness. It’s wild how much just swapping out windows can change the way a house “breathes.” I ...
RE: Getting approved for window financing: how strict are they really?
When I did mine, the lender looked at debt-to-income ratio a lot more than I expected. My credit was decent but not stellar either, and they still wanted to see proof of income and even asked for a copy of my last utilit...
RE: Trying to pick between energy-efficient and standard windows for that tax break
That’s been my experience too. I did a full-frame window replacement in my 1950s ranch last fall - went with triple-pane, low-e glass, and made sure to use closed-cell spray foam around the rough openings. The difference...
RE: Why do my smart window sensors keep disconnecting?
Moisture’s a sneaky one - I’ve noticed condensation inside the window frames can mess with sensor contacts. Lithium batteries do help, but even then, if the sensor housing isn’t sealed well, humidity creeps in. I had to ...
RE: Swapping Out Old Windows for Jeld-Wen Casements: Worth It?
I’ve run into the same thing with Jeld-Wen casement operators. The crank handles look and feel decent, but it’s really that internal worm gear and housing where things go sideways. I took one apart after it started skipp...
RE: WHAT MADE YOUR WINDOW QUOTE JUMP? MATERIALS VS. INSTALLATION
Funny you mention newspapers - I found a bunch of old Sears Roebuck ads stuffed between the studs when we pulled the sashes. The insulation was basically non-existent, just some horsehair plaster and bits of what looked ...