Get Ready to Prep Your New Jersey Windows for Cooler Weather

Cooler weather is just around the corner for most of us in New Jersey. This means your family is going to be spending more time indoors. This may might include watching your favorite team chase the pigskin up and down the field or old, black and white classics on the tube – or time spent sharing a mug of cocoa after a walk around the block. It’s time to start thinking about cozying up the atmosphere and creating inviting spaces for family and friends to hang out and “chill”.

Before you pull out the decorating magazines for ideas about redressing your windows for fall, take some time to give your windows an annual wellness exam. Windows are one of the “most frequently used” items in your home. They allow cool autumn breezes and crisp morning sunlight to come into your home and keep out intruders while you’re away. It’s a good idea to do a thorough inspection at least once a year to make sure your windows are still working properly – if you do this at the start of each season, you’ll catch any damage or minor problems early, which will most likely save you time and expense in the long-term.

A 10 Item Checklist for Healthy Windows

1. Is there any damage to glass panels or panes?
2. Is weather stripping rotting or cracking?
3. Does the glass shift or rattle when pushed or poked?
4. Does the glass have condensation on internal or external surfaces or between sheets of glass?
5. Is the sealant (glazing) that holds the glass in place peeling or cracking?
6. Does each sash slide smoothly without sticking or hanging?
7. Is there water damage on sills or frames?
8. Can you lock and unlock the window easily?
9. Can you feel any air leaks?
10. Is the paint pealing or cracking on any surfaces?

This is not a comprehensive checklist, but it’s a good place to start. If your inspection reveals any broken glass, frame damage or operational hardware that isn’t working properly, it’s time for a professional inspection. We’ll be glad to come to your home for a no-fee walk through to help you determine which windows can be saved and which ones may need to be replaced with new energy efficient windows.

After Your Inspection ….

After your inspection, you’ll want to bring in some cozy decorative elements to give your home an autumn-like feel. Warm weather is perfect for light, airy fabrics and colors, but cooler fall temperatures need more substantial window treatments. Think bamboo shades and drapes constructed with rich, warm colors ranging from gold tones to chocolaty hues. If your inspection revealed air leaks and drafts and you can’t replace your windows right now, use heavy fabrics to reduce the drafts. Add bold textures and large patterns to build visual interest while adding some insulation to keep cold drafts at bay until you get your new replacement windows installed.

Fall Style for Your Bays and Bows

If you plan to install bay or bow replacement windows this fall and aren’t planning on adding a window seat, think about using the interior ledge as a display area for fall foliage or natural elements. Ample sunlight makes the window ledge the perfect place for small plants. An eclectic mix of planter styles and sizes will make the ledge more approachable and homey. Keep in mind that if you have indoor cats, they will naturally gravitate toward the warm sunshine pouring through open drapes. It might be wise to leave room on your window ledge for your four-legged family member to nap in the sunshine.

You can create a charming fall center piece for any window sill in a few minutes. Simply collect a few twigs, small branches and vines with leaves still attached from your yard. Stand clippings in a wire basket or simple glass vase without water and toss in a few faux berries from the dime store. You can add small stones, nuts, or other finds from nature for additional texture and interest.

Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey Replacement Window Inspection & Decorating Tips for Autumn

Cooler weather is on the way for sure. It’s time to put away the beach towels and pull out the snuggly afghans and winter throws. If your window inspection revealed some problems with your windows, we’d enjoy the opportunity to stop by and do a thorough walk through with you. We’ll give you a chance to look over our selection of replacement window products to keep your home warm and inviting – even when the weather turns cold and unfriendly. Give us a call at (866) 609-5033 or fill in the form on this page for more information.