#windows in Appleton and Wausau

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Things to look for when choosing windows in Appleton and Wausau for the home

A front door that looks great improves a home’s curb appeal. Whether one is buying a door for a new home or one wants to replace the doors of an existing property, making the right choice may seem overwhelming. There are so many varieties to choose from! However, the thing to remember here is that when one is overwhelmed with the choices of sliding doors in Green Bay and Oshkosh available, looks should not be the only consideration. Here are things to consider when shopping for doors or windows in Appleton and Wausau.

Safety

When it comes to selecting doors and windows, no matter what some people think, safety should be the primary concern. After all, these are the vital parts of the security of any home and the quality is really important. So making sure that a contractor who understands the same is a necessity. From steel-reinforced vinyl sashes to fusion-welded corners, there should be choices available to a homeowner as far as safety is concerned. The doors and windows should also be sturdy and strong to withstand the elements as well as human intrusion. Foot lock, key lock and dead bolt options should also be researched.

Energy concerns

Today, homeowners are more energy-conscious than ever before. Saving money is easy when the sliding doors in Green Bay and Oshkosh one chooses is energy-star certified. For this, the homeowner needs to choose a contractor who has such products available. Being energy-efficient is definitely the cool thing to do because apart from saving significant money in energy bills, it gives a homeowner bragging rights!

Aesthetics

For something that is so visible from the outside, it is no wonder that the door should look good. There are great options available and it is up to the homeowner to decide what kind of look is preferred. However, the smart thing to do is to choose a door that goes with the rest of the house. The windows too should be chosen likewise. This will provide a kind of symmetry to the whole house, which is ultimately going to bring the look together.

Getting the fit right

Upgrading one’s home with new doors and windows is a great idea but one needs to choose well. This is because if the fit is not right, a lot of time and money will be wasted. So the choice of contractor is superlatively important here as well. A contractor who makes replacement doors and windows in Appleton and Wausau according to the client’s requirements is the best choice. Also, installation is another thing that really makes a difference. A quality installation will ensure a quality fit so that the look and feel of the house is complete.

Today, people put a lot of value o the aesthetics of a home and for that, the doors and windows in Appleton and Wausau one chooses is really important. Investing in a little time and effort in getting these elements right will improve the curb appeal of any home.

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ARC Contracting is a certified and fully insured replacement roof contractor. Our experts also specialize in installing replacement windows, siding installation, replacement gutters, and more in the Appleton, Fond du Lac, Milwaukee, Green Bay, Marinette, West Bend, Neenah, Greenville, Oshkosh, Middleton, Waukesha, McFarland, Peshtigo, Kimberly, Suamico, Little Chute, Madison, Wausau, Stevens Point, and Rhinelander WI areas. When it comes to replacing the roof of your home or business, our expert crews and other knowledgeable team members use only the highest quality of materials and make sure the job gets done the right way. Visit our website arccontracting.com/ and call us to get an estimate today!

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Tips For Cleaning Your Replacement Windows

Check out these tips for cleaning your replacement windows and patio door and how to prevent damaging them when cleaning.

GLASS  Use a mild liquid window cleaner and a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the glass surfaces.  Clean the interior and exterior in opposite directions. This way if you see a streak, you’ll know which side it is on.  Example: Clean the interior using horizontal movements and the exterior using vertical movements. If you see a horizontal streak, you’ll know it’s on the inside of the glass.  To avoid streaking, avoid cleaning glass in direct sunlight.

SCREENS  Use a damp soft, non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth to gently wipe any debris from the screens.  A mild soap solution (dishwashing soap is useful) diluted with warm water can be used if needed.  If your vacuum has a dusting brush attachment this can be used to gently vacuum any loose debris or dust.  To avoid tearing your screen use limited force when cleaning.

FRAME, TRACK, AND SILL  Vacuum dirt, pet hair and debris from the sill or track prior to washing.  Use a damp soft, non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth to gently wipe any debris from the frame.  A mild soap solution (dishwashing soap is useful) diluted with warm water can be used if needed. One of the benefits of buying replacement windows from AHT Wisconsin Windows is the ability to clean the exterior of your windows from inside your home. Below are some tips to help with exterior cleaning:

DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS  Lift the lower sash at least 4-6 inches prior to pressing the release buttons. This will ensure the sash does not rub against or crack the bottom frame.  When tilting the sash in and out for cleaning, hold from the center vs. the sides. This will help keep the window in alignment.

SLIDING WINDOWS  Open the window to the halfway open point, then lift up while tilting the lower portion towards you to release the sash.

If you are looking for a window replacement company in Appleton, AHT Wisconsin Windows has serving following areas since 1967: Madison, Shawano, Wausau, Fond du Lac, Appleton, Janesville, and surrounding areas. Call AHT Wisconsin Windows today to find out if we service your area.

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Top 6 Car Features for Wisconsin Winter Outdoor Adventurers

Top 6 Car Features for Wisconsin Winter Outdoor Adventurers

Challenging Wisconsin weather drives what you may need for successful winter expeditions.

Challenging Wisconsin weather drives what you may need for successful winter expeditions. 

You’ve packed extra hand-warmers. You have a new vacuum insulated mug. Your favorite boots are ready. So, you think you’re prepared for an adventure into Wisconsin’s winter wonderland … except for one thing: getting there and back. Before you travel to the great outdoors this winter, consider how a few vehicle features can add to your enjoyment and even impact your hunting and fishing success.

Sometimes the smallest features can make a biggest difference. Yet, it seems like every month a new vehicle advancement in convenience or safety becomes available. Some are quite pricey, too. So, before you shop for a new or used car with just the right features to help you enjoy a great winter adventure, review our top 6 vehicle features you may want in your next used car, truck, or SUV.

All- or 4-Wheel Drive

Assuming you know the routes you’ll be taking, and if these roads are paved or not, you can choose to buy a vehicle with either all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. All-wheel drive cars, trucks, and SUVs generally perform well in slippery weather conditions. And, you don’t need to activate them; they simply distribute power to wheels as necessary.

Four-wheel drive systems, most common in pickup trucks and SUVs, are excellent for driving in very deep snow and for off-roading. Once 4-wheel drive is activated, its low range allows the vehicle to drive up steep hills, over boulders, and through mud. If your route includes roads that aren’t plowed regularly, 4-wheel drive is a must.

A quick reminder: your drive system does not determine how well your vehicle will stop in slippery conditions. Traction is provided by your tires, and only a playing card-sized area is touching the road at any time. So, make sure you have winter tires in good condition. Their soft rubber compound grips better in cold weather. Look for the three-peak mountain and snowflake symbol molded into the tire’s sidewall.

Heated Side Mirrors

Being able to operate your vehicle safely is crucial, especially when you’re exploring unfamiliar territory. The key to safe operation is no surprise; it’s being able to see: in front of you, behind you, and next to you.

You may think that heated side mirrors would cool off too quickly during travel to do much good. But, the housing unit protects against wind and cold. Overall, they’re as effective as rear window defrosters/defoggers, allowing you to remove ice build-up without having to scrape, which can shift your side mirror’s sightlines.

Plus, they evaporate fog in an instant, making your early morning adventures dry, clear, and safe. Speaking of heated components, consider heated seats. Not only do they raise your body temperature when you need it most, they feel great on a sore back during the drive home from a long outdoor expedition. Oh, and a heated steering wheel can feel incredible, too.

Remote Vehicle Starting

Winter mornings can be brutally cold. Especially if your vehicle is exposed to the elements when parked. You can defrost your windows and warm up your vehicle from your home or the cabin, far before you venture out. Plus, after your outdoor fun, get things warmed up before you’ve left the woods.

Also, consider keyless entry, which comes in handy when you have a frozen armload of gear and food. Just walk up to the door and touch the sensor on the door instead of dropping your keys into the snow. Plus, many cars, trucks, and SUVs with keyless entry have pushbutton starting, so no more fishing for keys!

One more convenient loading feature: a hydraulic lift-gate (which slowly drops down in pickups and opens up in hatchbacks) and can be moved with only a finger.

Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control

The drive to your winter escape could be a long haul. And, you’re likely going to have someone with you: friend, spouse, kids. Traveling hundreds of miles while trying to agree on a comfortable interior temperature can be challenging.

Dual-zone automatic climate control is the ultimate peacemaker; giving the driver and front passenger the ability to fine-tune the temperature. Simply set it, and the system makes adjustments to keep everyone comfortable. While in “auto” mode, it keeps everything steady, so you’re decreasing adjustments and increasing safety.

Winter Windshield Wipers

Having to pull over during your trip to repeatedly knock icy messes off your wiper blades is inconvenient and a safety hazard. As their name states, winter wiper blades are built specifically for winter driving, preventing ice from building up on the blade holder. Now, ice and wet snow get lifted off the blade so it rides flat against the windshield.

Some of these special wipers do have a tendency to lift up at high speeds, which may not be an issue when driving in winter conditions. You just need to replace them after winter with summer-friendly blades because they may streak in rainy conditions.

Since we’re discussing being able to see clearly, think about automatic high beams. This feature automatically turns off your high beams for oncoming traffic, and then brings them back up after the car passes. This makes nighttime driving on back roads easier, which can be stressful due to winter driving conditions.

Ground Clearance

OK, ground clearance isn’t a feature that can be easily changed, but it’s something to consider when shopping for your winter-friendly vehicle. For most SUVs, the distance between the chassis and the driving surface is 8 inches, enough room to handle most snowfalls. With more ground clearance, you have added ability to dance over boulders, cross streams, and climb up steep pitches of dirt road.

However, with less ground clearance, let’s say 6.5 inches (still more than most cars and many minivans have), you need to carefully consider what you’ll be driving over. So, depending on your off-road needs, take the time to take some measurements.

Finding the right car, truck, or SUV for your winter outdoor adventures isn’t easy. In the end, it has to work for you, so do your research on vehicle makes, models, and features. We suggest discussing your winter trip needs with a reputable, ethical, and honest used car dealer.

Bring your needs—whether that’s off-road handling or special vehicle features—to a 199ride.com dealership: Green Bay Auto, Appleton Auto, Wausau Auto, Antigo Auto, and 199ride La Crosse.

    The post Top 6 Car Features for Wisconsin Winter Outdoor Adventurers appeared first on Morning Moss.

from Morning Moss http://morningmoss.com/top-6-car-features-for-wisconsin-winter-outdoor-adventurers/

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Why To Get Custom-Made Vinyl Windows In Appleton and Green Bay For the Home

Do you wish to change the appearance of one’s home to make it look appealing and fresh? If yes, then one just needs to change the windows to notice a positive difference in its looks. Choose good quality replacement windows for one’s home by banking on companies and brands well-known for their quality and functionality. There are credible companies that provide one with good quality and durable vinyl windows for the home. The biggest advantage of vinyl windows is that they are simple for an individual to maintain and clean. They are cost-efficient and one just needs to opt for a one-time investment when one buys them for the home.  

 Get custom made replacement windows for your home

 If an individual wants the replacement window to abide to a particular style to meet and match the exteriors and interiors of the home, one can bank on companies that provide  with custom made vinyl windows for the home. One can call in experts whom will visit the home and take specific orders. They will design the windows as per the specifications install it in your home. Replacement windows in Stevens Point and Wausau experts will visit one’s home and they will offer valuable suggestions when it comes to window design, style and frame when one wishes to replace it in their home and customize it as per the home design.

 Energy efficient windows to save on bills

 Thanks to the above companies, one can bank on energy efficient windows to save money on bills. These windows are easy on the pocket and they lock the air inside. This means in Summer, one will face no fear of cool air escaping from the house and heat during the Winters.

 Pick the frame or the style that you like

 Vinyl windows in Appleton and Green Bay are available in any style or frame of one’s choice. One just needs to consult professionals in the field and check the extensive range of options available for one’s home. One can work on colors and frame designs to enhance the appearance and appeal of the windows one wishes to choose for the home.

 Contact professionals for your installation needs

 Therefore, when one is looking for top quality and cost-effective vinyl replacement windows for the home, contact trustworthy companies in the region. Take the expert suggestions and recommendations from professionals to complement the style of their home for the windows one chooses. For instance, if one has a modern home, one should choose windows that have a modern style and frame. In case, one is confused about the color of the windows one should get for the home, consult professionals from the company. They have a team of creative designers to help one pick and choose the ideal color scheme for one’s home with success!

 Good replacement windows will last one for a long time if bought from top brands in the market. Compare prices online and always read customer reviews when one is looking for the best vinyl windows in the market for one’s home.

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Why To Choose Casement Windows In Wausau And Eau Claire

If anyone says that a window can say a lot about one’s lifestyle, then that is not wrong. Each house has a window. That window needs to be chosen carefully as it needs to be in sync with the structure or design of the building. The choice of windows in Green Bay and Appleton thus is crucial. Once the windows are installed, it will be hard getting them out once again. Plus, that would also mean a loss of money. That is why every homeowner would need to get the right windows for their house.

It is natural for homeowners to get confused as there are many companies offering a varied choice in windows in Green Bay and Appleton. Picking the one that will merge nicely with the existing structure is crucial, and hence help can be sought from the professionals in the field. They can help in deciding whether it will be a double hung window or a bow window or casement windows in Wausau and Eau Claire that one should get installed in their house. Though all choices are good, it cannot be denied that the casement windows have been a heart-winner. Homeowners tend to fall in love with casement windows as soon as they see it. The casement windows open outward, and also help in making savings in the long run. They are perfect choices to save space in the bathroom or above the kitchen sink. Not only that, there are many their benefits of installing casement windows.

The Many Plus Points of Installing Casement Windows

There are more than one reason for installing casement windows in Wausau and Eau Claire. Knowing them will help in making the right decision.

The casement windows are low on maintenance- Just installing windows will not be sufficient. To keep it functional and looking good, one needs to maintain it well. Not everyone can hire professional cleaning services all the time, or can wash it thoroughly. That is why it makes sense to install windows that do not take a lot of time in keeping it clean. Cleaning and maintaining the casement windows does not take much time. This window features just one large pane of glass wiping which is effortless. At the same time, the window pane does not fade or chip, and is crack-resistant.

Casement windows offer maximum ventilation- Windows are sources to let in natural light and air into one’s home. Casement windows allow good ventilation and helps to bring in light and fresh air that circulates well into one’s home. With the rooms well-ventilated, the rooms stay fresh, crisp and comfortable.

The windows are easy to open- Casement windows are easy to open. With the hand cranks, it is easy to reach out to hard-to-reach locations and open the windows.

Casement windows are very much energy efficient- Casement windows are energy-efficient. They help in making savings by helping regulate the interior temperature of one’s home. Casement windows are a favorite also for this reason as they are known to increase the energy efficiency of one’s home by nearly 45 percent during the cold months and 70 percent during the summer months.

The many plus points of casement windows has made it a wide pick among the homeowners. The smooth operation, security and energy efficiency has made it  a popular choice among many homeowners.

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How To Find Cheap Bay Windows In Green Bay And Wausau

When it comes to replacement windows, it’s a costly home improvement job. But there are some effective tricks following which homeowners can make significant savings.

Some useful ways to save on replacement windows are as follows:

Avoid additional features that increase the cost – Like any industry, window companies also offer special features that eventually can drive up the cost and thus fatten their profit margin. Be it TV, computer, mobile, car or anything else - people love to get extra features. And windows are no different. But are they worth the expense? Well if it’s required, then it must be opted for. But if not, it may be bypassed. However, features like energy star certification, laminated exterior super-hard glass, integrated grills may be considered.

Stick to popular designs – Common and popular shapes and styles are always cheaper than designer ones. Circles, hexagons, curves – these fun things can drive up the cost. The most inexpensive choices may include sliders, double-hung, bay windows in Green bay and Wausau, casement and last but not the least, fixed.

Avoid authorized dealers that sell only one brand – Authorized dealers usually offer a single brand and that limits the competition that help to find better deals. They are really good in terms of providing benefits. They come really handy when a warranty is called in. But by opting for such a dealer, the buyer has already trimmed down the choices before they actually begin the search. However, not all authorized deals are brand-specific. There are many that deal in different replacement windows in Green Bay and Appleton brands.

Look for cheaper yet durable materials – Fiberglass is cheaper than wood while vinyl is the cheapest. Yes, vinyl windows are the cheapest replacement windows available today. But it’s recommended to do some thorough search and decide on which material would suit the need and budget.

Price triangulation helps to save – While someone gets three estimates, one must be the lowest. There’s no doubt about this. This is the basic logic that everybody has learned in the kindergarten. Price triangulation is an eternal practice of getting three quotes.  Every homeowner should make use of this logic. It’s recommended to ask at least three windows companies to come to the home; this should be done in 3 nights in a row. Now it’s possible to get a price spread of quotes – one low, one medium and one high.

Builder grade windows are less expensive – As it’s quite evident that contractors or builders seek out lowest cost windows to ensure better bottom line. If someone is really interested in saving money, he/she may think about this option. Anything designated to be architectural grade would be expensive while replacement windows that come under the designation of contractor grade or builder grade would be really cheaper. This ensures that the basic products surely satisfy the minimum requirement without breaking the bank.

These are some of the ways for corner cutting in regards to replacement windows.

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Find the Best Contractors for Replacement Windows in Eau Claire and Appleton

There are a number of great reasons to consider installing replacement windows in your home. The technology used to construct vinyl frames and insulated has got better in recent times. Most of the replacement windows are energy efficient and look great. As an affordable option, they become immediate choice for most of homeowners.

For a number of years, wooden replacement windows were automatic choice for homeowners due to its standard of quality and longevity. Wood used to be usually chosen due to its stability and insulating properties. With changing time, notion is changing too, so is preference. Vinyl is favored now for it is easy to maintain.

Understanding Materials:

The production of vinyl replacement windows in Eau Claire and Appleton now includes a number of features that makes them so popular among the home owners. Foam-filled frames with mitered joints not just adds essence to the windows but also makes your home sound proof. Insulated glass includes tow or even three panes of glass that increasing the sound-deadening quality of the replacements.

Specialized coatings, such as Low-E combined with Argon-filled insulating spaces between the panes contribute to improve the insulating qualities of replacement windows. Due to its advanced features, the new vinyl replacements not just stops drafts but also stops the transmission of radiant heat. As you learn more about additional features, it will quickly become apparent that the cost of replacing you existing rickety wooden windows with something wonderful and unique will be worth every penny.

Measuring the Value:

Apparently it may seem intimidating when it comes to replacing the windows of your house. However, sooner or later you realize it’s not a big deal at all. Rather you need to consider several factors while measuring the value of your best replacement options. The first thing you need to consider is simply how much your heating and cooling costs will drop. Energy efficient replacement windows reduce your heating bills.

Be sure to take into consideration the value of your home itself. High quality replacement windows are likely to double the resale value of your home. The windows not just improves the aesthetic value of the home but also increases the appraised value of your home.

Finding Someone You Can Trust:

Whether it is replacement windows or patio doors in Eau Claire and Wausau, one may face the biggest challenge is finding an installer. It is advisable not to take a contractor’s credentials for granted. Be sure to check his qualification and how long he has been into the industry. The overall cost of replacing your old windows includes labor charge, which is likely to be quite high. So you need to find the right contractor when you are going to pay for it. Assess and evaluate the contractors by asking plenty of questions. Be sure to follow up on the references that a contractor provides with their estimates. If you find anything unusual, keep contacting the contractor that you trust. Remember, you pay for the service. So make sure that you are treated the way want.

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Buy Sliding Doors & Windows in Appleton and Wausau From Reputed Manufacturers

A sliding door basically has one matching panel and a fixed panel that glide sideways to the left or right or to the top and bottom tracks. These types of doors can be designed for either a left-hand or right-hand operation. As the sliding doors do not need to swing they can easily be installed in rooms with limited space.

Homes with master suites and access to an outdoor area such as a landscaped garden or a pool can get a sliding door installed. This type of door when installed can give the home a more sleek and contemporary look. Not to mention, In addition, this type of door can allow natural light to enter into the room. Apart from this, sliding doors can be installed on the balcony, home gym and the living room area as well. Furthermore, sliding doors can be installed in kitchens and other rooms that lead to the patio area or backyard of a home. This is for the reason that these areas usually get a lot of foot traffic. As the sliding door move away into a gap, there is more room for people to move throughout the space. However, it is important to note that such types of doors can be installed as internal doors only.

Following are some of the benefits that come with installing the sliding doors in Eau Claire and Wausau:

Compared to the other types of doors, sliding doors allow more natural light to come within the home. Because of the large glass pane present on these doors, the amount of light that can enter the space is considerably greater. In order to add some privacy and keep away light, one can use blinds on the sliding doors.

Sliding doors have excellent insulating properties that help to keep the home stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. These doors are also fitted with composite gaskets that provide maximum thermal insulation and also prevent sound from getting access inside.

Sliding doors are user-friendly options as they can be operated easily. One can just glide them along the rail and get quick and easy access to areas, such as backyards and patios. This is particularly beneficial when entertaining guests in case of a pool party or backyard barbecue.

Sliding doors give an illusion of more space and thus can be installed in rooms with limited space. As they have huge glass panes, they reflect light to give the impression that a room is much larger than it is in reality. This is specifically useful for homes that have small living rooms or kitchens.

Apart from all the above mentioned benefits, sliding doors can offer more safety and security and come in a wide range of colors and styles, so that can easily find the one that perfectly matches the style of their home.

Whether one is investing on a sliding door or windows in Appleton and Wausau, it is always important to choose a reliable company that offers the top quality products at reasonable prices.