Windows Blog

Door Styles

Thu, 22 May 2008 14:01:00 GMT

There are tons of variations when it comes to door styles. With sliding doors, hinged doors, bi-fold doors and so much more, the possibilities are endless. You can choose doors that open forward or backward for different practical reasons, or double-acting doors that swing out in both directions.

Here is a list with descriptions of some common door styles:
Single Hinged Doors:
The most common entry doors. They are hinged on one side and swing open. They can be made to swing either backwards or forwards.

Double-Acting Doors:
Doors which are able to swing in both directions, similar to the kitchen doors in a restaurant.

Slider Doors:
Doors that are hung on a track on the face of a wall.

Flush Doors:
Doors whose faces are flat and smooth.

Panel Doors:
Doors with several panels that have horizontal or vertical strips, giving them a three-dimensional appearance. Also referred to as stile or rail doors.

French Doors:
Doors that consist of panes of glass that are separated by vertical and horizontal frames. They open and close similar to other doors, swinging in a vertical plane.

Louver Doors:
Doors that consist of a series of slats, usually arranged horizontally and fastened between vertical pieces. Desirable to use when you want air to flow through a room.

Bifold Doors:
Doors that consist of two or more panels. The doors are hinged at one side and to each other.

Pocket Doors:
Doors that slide into a cavity in the adjacent wall that is specially built for it.

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com

The Key To Choosing The Right Door

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 14:01:00 GMT

Doors, especially exterior ones, are important to homeowners for many reasons. Open doors can allow ventilation and light into a room, while closed doors give privacy and security. Doors can help control the temperature of a room by preventing air drafts from entering. Another overlooked feature of doors is their prevention of the spread of fire. Doors also act as a barrier to noise.

Doors create an impression of the aesthetics of the interior of a home. They are an important part of your home’s look, as they can be warm and inviting. Doors can blend in with the style of your home, or make a bold statement.Considering the importance of a door, you should do your research and find the right style and material for your home.

Where to begin? Choosing a door is easier said than done with the endless options that are available today. You have to consider a number of aspects.

Here are some things to take into account:
Style
Size
Material
Insulation
Security
Durability
Color and Texture
Accessories (locks, glass panels, transoms, doorknobs, etc.)

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com

How To Choose a Lock for Your Entry Door

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:01:00 GMT

Although weather elements and security should be considered when choosing an entry door, you should also spend some time thinking about the appearance you wish to create. An entry door can give a welcoming tone and raise the perceived value of your entire home. You can choose a subtle door to blend with the style of your home, or a bold door to stand out and make a statement. Whichever you prefer, there are limitless options so make sure not to rush the decision.

Consider your home’s architecture and complement it with an appropriate style. Aspects to be considered are color, texture,
and style.
Choose a material for your door- the most common options are wood, steel, and fiberglass. Things to think about when deciding on a material are your budget, the climate in which you live, and the maintenance you expect to do.
Decide on a handle type, material and lock which complements your door.

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com

Types of Windows

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 14:01:00 GMT

When choosing the type of windows for your home, it is important to consider the look, operating style, and energy efficiency you want. There are also several shapes and security factors to think about. Not only do your home’s windows affect its architectural style, but they can also save energy, provide light and ventilation, and regulate the temperature of a room.

To serve a wide variety of tastes and needs, windows are available in several types and sizes that operate and function differently. Here are some common window types:

Double-Hung Windows:
Common window style that open by sliding the bottom sash up or the top sash down. Double-hung windows allow good control of ventilation.

Single-Hung Windows:
Similar in operation to double hung windows, but only the bottom sash opens.

Casement Windows:
Hinges on one side and swings out or in when you turn a crank. Provide excellent ventilation and energy efficiency because both sides are sealed tightly when closed.

Awning Windows:
Hinges at the top and tilts out at the bottom. Awning windows are usually used for ventilation above a door
or window.

Bay Windows:
Typically three windows joined together. The center is often fixed with operating double-hung windows on the sides.

Sliding Windows:
Consists of sashes that move horizontally on a track; usually one side moves while the other is fixed. Provides ventilation from the opened sash and is weather tight when shut.

Tilt-Turn Windows:
Operated by tilting into a room. They allow for good ventilation, are easy to clean, and are ideal emergency exits.

Rotating Windows:
Open by pivoting around a central point. They provide good ventilation and are easy to clean.

Circlehead Windows:
Accent windows designed to be placed above other windows or doors. These provide light but not ventilation.

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com

Types of Window Frames

Sat, 14 Jul 2007 14:01:00 GMT

Choosing the correct window frame for your home requires thinking about the style you want and your practical needs. You need to consider various materials, finishes and styles. Also consider your budget and the maintenance required for keeping each window frame in good shape.

If your window frames can be opened for ventilation, they must also close tightly and securely to prevent intrusion. Also, different window frames have differing degrees of durability when dealing with weather elements such as rain and wind. Window frames can also provide various benefits for energy efficiency in your home.

There are different types of window frame materials to choose from. Below are common frame materials and their characteristics:

Aluminum Frames:
Strong and light-weight
Require little maintenance and very durable
Do not rust, rot, or absorb water
Resistant to warping
Less expensive than wood and composite frames
Conduct heat very rapidly; leads to poor insulation
Subject to condensation
Long lasting
Can become cold to the touch; reduces energy efficiency

Vinyl Frames:
Very strong
Good insulation
Little maintenance; do not require painting
Resistant to water
At high temperatures frames can expand and warp
At low temperatures frames can crack
Colored vinyl frames may fade from sunlight exposure
Hollow sections diminish strength

Wood Frames:
Most aesthetically pleasing and traditional choice
Highly energy efficient
Durable and strong
Can be made in any color
Sensitive to weather conditions; can expand
Require a lot of maintenance to keep them ingood shape
Expensive compared to some other frame materials
Annual maintenance is recommended to increase frames life span

Fiberglass Frames:
Resistant to cracking, peeling and splitting
Very stable and durable
Filling air cavities results in superior thermal performance
Good resistance to weather elements
Expensive because they are new to the market
Limited colors and styles compared to other frame materials

Steel Frames:
Most durable and weather resistant window frame material
Likely to outlast any other material
Very heavy
Subject to rust
Few manufacturers compared to other frame materials
Expensive
Generally not used in homes

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com

Signs that it's Time to Get New Windows

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 14:01:00 GMT

You want to give your home a new look or increase its resale value.
Your windows do not meet fire codes or do not provide adequate protection from possible intruders.
You want to save money on your energy bills.
Your old windows have damages, such as cracks, faded colors or dents.
Your old windows would require a lot of money and time to fix.

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com

Windows and Doors

Fri, 06 Apr 2007 14:01:00 GMT

Windows and doors are extremely important to your home for many reasons. First of all, their style sets the tone for the appearance of your home’s exterior. Windows and doors also have critical functional purposes. Doors and windows protect your family from unwanted intruders and harsh weather conditions. Choosing the right windows and doors can also save you money on your energy bills, by providing ventilation and insulation.

Source: Shiner Roofing, Siding and Windows, www.ShinerRoofing.com