Author: James Ruppel

Should Replacement Window Frames Match or Contrast Exterior Finishes?

window frame color New Jersey New York

Homeowners in New Jersey and New York metro neighborhoods who plan to update their facade may be considering how replacement window frame colors may impact the overall aesthetic of their homes. While most people tend to choose colors they like, sometimes that isn’t the best way to choose house paint. This Renewal by Andersen of Long Island article has tips and tricks for choosing the perfect color combination.

Follow the Color Formula for Success

There is a pliable, but reliable, rule that house painters follow when it comes to color combinations. It’s called the 60-30-10 rule, and relies on using three basic colors to create a well-balanced, pleasing appearance.

Here’s how it works . . .

Vinyl, wood, brick, shingles – whatever covers the largest visible surface of your house – share one common color, the 60 percent color.

A second color covers 30 percent of your visible exterior, and is often something that isn’t changeable, like the roofing material, or it may be the color used for entrance doors and the garage or other architectural elements

The third color acts as an accent color, which is typically seen on replacement window frames, trim and as a pop of color around doors, porch railings and columns. Sometimes, people paint the fascia (found just beneath the edges of the roof line) with this third color.

A harmonious color scheme considers the various unchangeable hues and shades – such as the gold flecks in red bricks or the subtle blues and grays cast from dark roof shingles.

Accent Color Pro Tip: Avoid using accent colors to draw attention to unsightly or otherwise drab elements. Creating an attractive facade means gutters, rain spouts and inconveniently placed windows and air conditioner units melt into the surroundings.

Look Around for Inspiration

Before you run to the hardware store or home center to gather a stack of paint chips, take a spin around your neighborhood. An afternoon drive gives you a chance to see what color combinations work (and, which ones don’t) in homes that have similar style and era features as your own house.

Online sites like Houzz, Pinterest and Home & Gardens also offer thousands of images that might help you identify possible color combinations.

You can also download the Renewal by Andersen 3D app and try on various window styles and color combinations so you have a better idea of what your home might look like after your upgrade.

Contrasting vs Coordinating Replacement Window Colors

The choice of whether to counter your broad surfaces with a contrasting color or to use matching colors on trim and replacement window elements comes down to what you expect from your color choices. If you want to add a bit of charm and warmth, contrasting colors emphasize your home’s character.

Keep these color facts in mind as you consider your options.

  • Light colors generally bring details closer, while dark colors tend to add an air of stability and substance.
  • Consider your landscaping. Choose colors that compliment plants and foliage, but still maintain a subtle independence.
  • Don’t be afraid to use colors that accurately reflect your personality, but do so in a way that doesn’t offend or anger those living in proximity.

Still Have Questions About How to Choose Renewal by Andersen Replacement Window Colors?

Before you make the final decision, learn how your color selections may influence your property values. Then, if you still have questions, check out our beautiful color palette in person at our showroom. Better yet, fill in the short form on this page or call 888-826-2451 to speak to a replacement window design specialist today.

 

Download our Free Guide to New Jersey & New York Metro Replacement Windows

New Jersey New York Replacement Windows eBook

Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows

Click Here to Download Now!

LEARN …
    • The Difference Between Replacement and New Construction Windows!
    • The Different Kinds of Frame Materials and What That Means to Your Windows’ Performance and Longevity!
    • How the Right Glass Can Save You Money on Your Heating & Cooling Bills!
    • The Critical Role Proper Installation Plays in the Performance, Durability and Warranty of Your New Replacement Windows!
    • What Features and Options are Important to You and What Role They Play in Your Ultimate Satisfaction Today, and for as Long As You Live in Your Home!

5 Tips to Prevent Mistakes When Replacing Home Windows

5 Tips Window Mistakes New Jersey New York

Thinking about updating your home’s exterior? It might surprise you to learn how little, subtle mistakes can make a huge negative impression on a home’s exterior. This Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro article will help you avoid four common mistakes people make when giving their home’s facade a make-over.

#1. Installing Shutters That Don’t Even Pretend to Work

Have you ever seen an otherwise beautiful home, with a pleasing curb appeal, but knew something wasn’t quite right? The reason could be the shutters were too narrow for the windows. Functioning shutters are perfectly sized to cover the window when closed. Even if you don’t plan to ever use these charming accessories, make sure they appear functional.

#2. Shutters That Don’t Complement the Replacement Windows

Another common fail also has to do with installing shutters. Adding shutters to a replacement window that looks perfect without them can be a real distraction. Some designers say that shutters and double-mulled windows clash, even if the shutters are sized perfectly. Unless you plan to use the shutters as weather barriers, skip them on bays and bows, most dormers and large, fixed windows, too.

#3. Too Many Window Styles Create Chaos

Most interior and exterior decorators will tell you not to be afraid to express yourself by unconventional design techniques. But, when it comes to mixing and matching window styles, shape plays an integral role in defining your overall aesthetic. A single window with a curved top, or several placed symmetrically across the front of your home often adds visual texture.

However, a miss-mash of random shaped windows, with different shapes and sizes can look messy instead of marvelous. Even changing window grill patterns can mess up the look.

Here’s a tip: Prairie grille patterns are endemic (seen all the time) in Craftsman, Prairie and Arts and Crafts style architecture. They can look a bit out of place in other settings. Consider using the Renewal by Andersen Window and Door Visualizer to “try on” different window shapes and grille patterns before finalizing your buying decision.

#4. Dormers that Disturb the View

Creating a harmonious curb-appeal means choosing complementary window styles and accessories. While dormers, and even miniature bay windows, offer a touch of individuality and visual interest, dormers should complement and extend the overall aesthetic.

A general rule of thumb is that the window should consume about ¾ of the dormer, anything less looks like an add-on without much thought, kind of like painting one door on a black car white. It draws the eye, but not in a good way.

You can balance a single (or multiple) dormers with existing architectural features by adding an entrance pediment with the same roof pitch and paint as the dormer or bay.

#5. Seek Professional Help to Avoid Mistakes

Fortunately, decades of helping our New Jersey and New York metropolitan friends and neighbors has given Renewal by Andersen the experience to guide homeowners toward wise choices. We can offer tips and strategies to make the process more efficient.

The easiest way to avoid making these simple missteps is spending some time looking at homes in your neighborhood with similar architectural styles and elements. Browse online design magazines. Visit the inspiration gallery to explore options for your home upgrade.

And, if you’re still not sure which grille pattern or style will help you create a beautiful facade, just ask.

Let Renewal by Andersen Help Bring Your Vision for a Beautiful Home to Life with Replacement Windows and Patio Doors

To learn more about our portfolio of replacement windows, patio doors and accessories, just fill in the short form on this page or dial 1-888-826-2451 to schedule a no-obligation home consultation.

 

 

Download our Free Guide to New Jersey & New York Metro Replacement Windows

New Jersey New York Replacement Windows eBook

Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows

Click Here to Download Now!

LEARN …
    • The Difference Between Replacement and New Construction Windows!
    • The Different Kinds of Frame Materials and What That Means to Your Windows’ Performance and Longevity!
    • How the Right Glass Can Save You Money on Your Heating & Cooling Bills!
    • The Critical Role Proper Installation Plays in the Performance, Durability and Warranty of Your New Replacement Windows!
    • What Features and Options are Important to You and What Role They Play in Your Ultimate Satisfaction Today, and for as Long As You Live in Your Home!

Updating Patio Doors Is As Easy as 1-2-3 in New Jersey & New York

update patio doors New Jersey New York

The Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro helps people turn their houses into comfortable, welcoming homes. Our precision-crafted replacement windows and patio doors instantly transform a tired home with worn-out curb appeal into an attractive space with a beautiful view from both sides of the glass.

If you’ve been putting off updating your patio doors because the process seems overwhelming, this article should put your fears to rest. Updating with replacement patio doors is as easy as 1-2-3 and you’re done.

Step One: Design Your Replacement Patio Doors

Choosing replacement patio doors manufactured for superior performance and functionality is important. We offer three distinct styles that enhance energy-efficiency, provide abundant natural light flow in your home and offer simple operation.

During the design process, you’ll decide whether you prefer a traditional hinged, French-style door or a sliding option. There are two gliding styles too, one that looks like a hinged-French door, and one that is sleek and contemporary.

You can customize your preference with unique configurations and elements that perfectly complement your existing architecture and overall aesthetic. Plus, each patio door includes:

  • Double-pane, low-e glass options constructed with argon gas between the panes to manage heat gain/heat loss through the door
  • Frames with superior insulating properties and characteristics that prevent flaking, pitting and weather damage seen in traditional wood framed doors
  • Locking mechanisms and exceptional weather stripping designed to block air and moisture leaks

While designing your new patio doors, you’ll also select hardware, frame colors, grilles, insect screens and other accessories.

Typically, homeowners complete the design phase in the comfort of their own home, or with a consultant in our showroom.

Learn more about each replacement patio door component by visiting the web pages linked below.

Step Two: Approve the Order

Whether you visit a showroom to design your patio doors, or have a private, in-home consultation, a representative will measure each door you plan to replace, and fill out an order for the factory to build your new patio entrance door exactly to your specifications.

Once you approve the order, all that’s left is waiting a few weeks for skilled technicians to buidl, deliver and install the new door. Waiting is perhaps the hardest part of the process.

Step Three: Enjoy!

Manufacturing processes, exceptional craftsmanship and superior construction materials come together to ensure your new patio door is strong and durable enough to keep performing for as long as you live in your home.

Year after year you will enjoy the crystal clear view through the glass, the fade and weather-resistant frame and trim work, and the easy-to-use functionality. We are so confident you will love your new patio entrance doors, we offer one of the most comprehensive warranties available from replacement product dealers.

Update Your Home with Beautiful, High Performance Renewal by Andersen of NJ & NYM Replacement Patio Doors

Have questions we didn’t answer in this blog post about replacement patio doors for your New Jersey or metropolitan New York home? Fill in the short form on this page to request a brochure or schedule a private consultation by dialing 1-888-826-2451.

 

 

Download our Free Guide to New Jersey & New York Metro Replacement Windows

New Jersey New York Replacement Windows eBook

Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows

Click Here to Download Now!

LEARN …
    • The Difference Between Replacement and New Construction Windows!
    • The Different Kinds of Frame Materials and What That Means to Your Windows’ Performance and Longevity!
    • How the Right Glass Can Save You Money on Your Heating & Cooling Bills!
    • The Critical Role Proper Installation Plays in the Performance, Durability and Warranty of Your New Replacement Windows!
    • What Features and Options are Important to You and What Role They Play in Your Ultimate Satisfaction Today, and for as Long As You Live in Your Home!

3 Reasons to Install Replacement Windows Before Winter in NJ & NY

replacment windows installed before winter

Is winter really a good time to update home windows with high-performance replacement windows in New York and New Jersey? It is if your old windows aren’t doing their job anymore. US Department of Energy studies suggest poorly performing home windows are responsible for up to 25% of your heating and cooling bills, and much of the conditioned air sneaks out through or around the window unit if you don’t repair or replace damaged windows. That is wasted money you could be spending on something more important to you or your family.

With Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro’s Winter Installation Method, any season is a good time to install replacement windows, and today is a great day to get started.

Below are three reasons the Renewal by Andersen team thinks winter is the perfect time for upgrading your New Jersey or New York Metro home. Continue reading 3 Reasons to Install Replacement Windows Before Winter in NJ & NY

Starting an Indoor Herb Garden on Your Bay Window Ledge is Easy

Window Herb Garden, New Jersey, New York

People who love to cook from scratch, and who have recently replaced a traditional kitchen window with a bay replacement window, may be thinking about growing an herb garden on the interior ledge to have fresh herbs all year-round. Even if you don’t have a garden window over the sink, this Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro blog post provides tips on what to plant, how to take care of the herbs and when to harvest. Continue reading Starting an Indoor Herb Garden on Your Bay Window Ledge is Easy