FAQ's about Siding
FAQ's about Windows

SIDING

1. What are the advantages of vinyl siding over steel or aluminum siding ?

Vinyl siding is manufactured with color thruout the panel, is made with uv inhibiters to resist fading, does not dent, crack, or peel, does not conduct electricity, and is flexible enough that repairs can be made easily anywhere in a wall .

2.What do I look for in vinyl siding?

First, look for a style that you like (straight lap, dutch lap, beaded, vertical board and batt, vertical T-111, cedar shake, etc.). Next, make sure it is at least 44 mils thick (sidings range from 35-50 mils) soffit materials should be at least 44 mils thick also.

3. I know that vinyl comes in a lot of light and pastel colors, but are there darker colors available?

YES, there are several manufacturers of darker sidings. Vinyl siding expands and contracts with the seasonal changes.(A 12' standard color panel will expand 1/2" in the summer) Extra and different additives are used in the manufacturing process of the darker color siding to offset the extra heat absorption because of the darker color. So they are a little more expensive. The first 4 pictures in our gallery are of a walnut colored siding with dark red trim.

4. Some of the houses in my neighborhood have been sided and look terrible. Why?

One reason and one reason only. POOR INSTALLATION! A quality craftsman can take an inferior product and make it look good. There are too many guys out there in a pickup that say they are siding installers, when, in fact, there're not. Make sure that whatever contractor you choose uses crews with experience, and ask to see their work. Then make sure that that crew is on your job. Better yet, use a contractor that has employees. If he has long-term employees, and has references, then he must be doing something right.

5. Anything else?

YES, ask your contractor about the insulation package he will be using. This is the only time you can add R-value or stop air infiltration easily. Also, ask if he offers any design trim pieces (nicer corners, dentil mold, gable vents, etc). Vinyl is a permanent one-time application, so make sure your home is something you can be proud of.

6. What's it going to cost me?

It varies with each home. A 20 square house with 200' of soffit and fascia, 12 window wraps, two door wraps, two garage door wraps with a couple of trim options and new gutter would cost approx. $11,000.00 to do complete. A lot of splitlevels and bilevels fall into this size catagory. Two story homes are larger so they cost more. But each home is unique and should be bid according to what your wants are, and what will fit in your budget.

WINDOWS

1. What exactly is a replacement window?

A replacement window is one that is customed sized to fit inside your existing window frame. This eliminates expensive carpentry work because your outside and inside window trim remain intact. The new window is fitted to your inside trim for a finished look and there is no need for any painting, staining, or finishing.

2. I have metal windows now, so how does that work?

Basically the same way. the new window is custom sized to fit inside your finished opening. It is installed to leave room for your window treatment (drapery, blinds, etc.). The interior is sealed and finished with either caulking or prefinished trim. The exterior is sealed and trimmed with wood and that wood is covered with custom formed prefinished aluminum.

3. Are replacement windows better than my old ones?

Yes, for several reasons. First, the vinyl or compozite materials that the windows are made of are maintainance free. They do not warp, crack, peel, or discolor. Most window sashes on single and double and sliders are constructed with an interlock that forms a positive seal against the outside elements. The sashes are also weatherstripped for added protection against the outside elements. The glass is at least double insulated (some triple insulated) to eliminate the need for storm windows. And most tilt-in for easy cleaning.

4. Will I save any money on my heating and cooling costs with new windows?

Yes, if they are installed properly. 90% of your energy loss is thru air infiltration. Your new window needs to be sealed multiple times during installation to eliminate this.We use a 5 point sealing method during our installation process to eliminate air infiltration.

5. What options do I have?

The list is endless. You can change from the style you have now to a different one. You can add low E /argon filled glass, several internal grid options, tempered glass, triple glazed, several colors are available, etc. Ask your contractor for a list of options available for the windows you choose.

5. Is lowE/argon filled glass an option I should consider?

We think so. Most double insulated glass units have an R value of 2.5 center of glass. With the argon filled option, this increases to 4.5 (triple glazed increases to 7.5). The low E reflects 99% of the uv rays, making your house feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. It also hinders fading of your carpet, drapes, and furniture. A good value at 25 to 50 dollars/window in the big picture.

6. What's it going to cost me?

Windows are sold by the united inch (width plus height). And each option adds to the total price. But, an upper end, white, double hung window, 32" wide by 55" tall with low E/argon, no grids, installed to replace a wood window would cost approx $400.00-$450.00 to complete. Metal replacements cost a little more.

DISCLAIMER: The text, pictures, and links on this website are based on the experiences and opinions of EXTERIORS UNLIMITED INC. , and are for informational purposes only. Contact us with any comments.