Diamond Certified Resource Home Windows & Skylights Guide
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Read MoreOAKLAND — Planning to replace your roof? If so, you’ll want to make sure your new roof meets your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few considerations to make when designing a roofing system: Long-term plans How long do you envision yourself living in the home? If you plan on moving in five years, a practical, mid-range roofing system will likely make more sense than a high-end, cosmetically appealing one. Aesthetics Do you have specific ideas about the visual look of your roof? In this case, your roofing contractor can tailor your roofing system to include aesthetic features like copper flashings and designer shingles. Fire risk concerns Wildfires have become a major concern in the Bay Area during the last several years. Read more
PLEASANTON — Before hiring a contractor to replace your home’s windows, siding or stucco, make sure they’re willing and able to handle building permits. The permitting process for exterior renovations can be quite daunting—there are Title 24 questions, floor plan questions, material questions, etc. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a company with the experience to fulfill all requirements needed to obtain a permit for your project. One reason it’s important to hire a company that’s experienced with permits is the complexity of modern building code. For example, at least one window in any residential bedroom must qualify as an “egress window,” which means an occupant can easily climb out in the event of an emergency. Read more
NOVATO — If you want to maintain your windows in between professional cleanings, you’ll need to have the right cleaning tools and techniques at your disposal. Start with the tools: Go to your local hardware store and pick up a strip washer (sort of like a mop that’s used on windows) and a squeegee. Once you have your tools, follow this technique: 1. Use your strip washer to wet and scrub the window. If you have baked-on dirt, you can use some #4 steel wool (the finest grade available) to get more abrasive power. 2. Starting at the top of the window, use your squeegee to “fan” the window by moving briskly from one side to the other in a downward direction. Read more
BURLINGAME — When planning for a window replacement project, it’s crucial to hire the right contractor. Here are some attributes to look for in a window contractor: Longevity If a window contractor has been in business for many years, it indicates an ability to provide ongoing customer satisfaction. Top products Any quality window contractor uses quality products. Top manufacturers are always improving products with the newest building code and energy efficiency standards—plus, they typically have the best warranties. Ongoing training In addition to staying current with the latest products and installation methods, a good window contractor will provide their sales and installation staff with regular training. Read more
PETALUMA — In the past, homeowners who wanted to replace their windows were somewhat limited in their choices. Today, consumers can choose from a wide variety of window options and find a product that best fits their lifestyle, budget and personal preferences. Here’s some information about the most popular styles of window frames on the market today: Vinyl Window Frames Vinyl window frames were originally created to replace aluminum, which were the most common frames installed in houses throughout the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. Here are a few attributes of vinyl windows: Improved energy efficiency Virtually maintenance-free Less likely to collect condensation Almost all manufacturers offer lifetime warranties. Read more
