Wednesday, September 30, 2015

"Windows" to the soul? No...Just windows!

Who know there is so much to consider when buying windows?  It seems that as technology improves, energy efficiency rises, and creativity inspires this does not only apply to most things in life but also to windows.  After we moved in and we realized that every time it's windy outside our blinds and curtains move and maybe we should get some estimates on new and improved windows.

This week we are obtaining 3 estimates, 2 local companies and one big box store.  So far the 2 companies have come in neck and neck and tomorrow we get the big box quote.  During this process I have learned a lot about windows and realized there is a lot more to learn. The salesman today told me that with new windows and their improved technology they estimate a 30% efficiency improvement in my home which correlates to better savings.  That's significant.  At around $400.00/window on average they should pay themselves off over the years but it makes me think how much am I losing due to my 23 year old, non-efficient, broken windows?

I learned that one of the biggest changes in technology is the Low-E glass which basically means greater efficiency. This glass is created by applying a microscopic, undetectable metallic coating to the glass which helps it to block heat which is key here in South Carolina.  It appears that pretty much any reputable glass company now uses this glass and along with the vinyl, double hung and argon gases in-between the panes it makes for better comfort and monetary savings.


Top 10 reasons to install new replacement windows:

  1. Curb Appeal- Older windows on your home may look outdated or unattractive. Changing out the windows with new replacement windows will help give your home the look you are aiming for and improve the curb appeal.
  2. Ease of Use- New windows are easier to clean because most are built with a tilt-in feature. This allows you to tilt the window in to quickly wash the exterior of the window instead of doing so from the outside of the home.
  3. Safety- Many older windows become very difficult to open and close over time. This can also lead to the windows not being able to remain open and falling shut.
  4. Noise Control- New windows provide better noise control from the outside commotion. If you live close to a main road or have noisy neighbors, new replacement windows could make for a world of difference!
  5. Energy Efficient- Replacement Windows will offer improved energy efficiency for your home. Older windows tends to have air leaks and let drafts into the home. The improved efficiency can help cut costs on heating and cooling bills!
  6. Value- New replacement windows will not only make your house look more appealing, but they are an investment that will add to the total value.
  7. Maintenance Free- Windows now come with great low maintenance features – including no painting!
  8. Comfort- A certain comfort can be brought to your home by replacing the windows. It can assist in  providing a warmer environment, and you can also move furniture closer to windows to help expanding your living area.
  9. Window Security- New windows can also aid in easing fears of break ins and intruders. Double locks and interlocks double strength glass for high impact resistance.
  10. Enjoying the View- Your old windows may have become foggy, scratched or dirty over time. Installing new windows with new glass can help give you a clearer view of the outside world!
 http://pennywindowstl.com/replacement-window-reasons/


Ready to move? Call me today

Jason
843.696.8627

Sunday, September 20, 2015

I went...I conquered...I enjoyed

Yesterday my friend Greg and I went to the Flowertown Funky Firken Fest and had a great time.  The weather was perfect, the people were nice and beer was great.  This was my first beer festival and I am hooked.  It was well organized and nobody there was acting like a drunk fool.  I met some really nice people who were there to enjoy the atmosphere and the beer.  One such couple was out enjoying their first date out in 10 months due to a recent addition to their family.  If David is reading this, Hi!  The vendors were from all over the state, although my bias was drawn to the more local ones and I really enjoyed the crafts by Frothy Beard and Greg enjoyed the Holy City brew made with chocolate and bananas.  Yes, you read that right. I loved the creativity the vendors brought to the festival as there was so much diversity in taste.

Than you to all who made this event happen and allowed Summerville to continue to have that "cool" factor that we have finally achieved.  My wife and I typically prefer to go downtown the 'Ville for a date night versus that big city of Charleston.
Image result for funky firkin fest
Funky Firken Fest in Summerville

Until next time,
-Jason

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Fall or Autumn?

Can you smell it?  Can you feel it?  It's a little cooler out there in the mornings and it feels so good.  If you live here in South Carolina where we often reach triple digits then you know just how great morning temps in the 60's are? I love it.  I texted my friend Jenn B. last night and said, "Do you know what time it is?"  Her response was 6:55.  She was accurate but the better answer was, "Time for pumpkin rolls" b/c she makes some good ones.

Do you call it Fall or Autumn? Odds are you call it fall and I did a little research into the difference. Why?  Because I'm just a little bit of a nerd.  The period from late September to December was originally known as Harvest which reflects the time of bringing in the crops.  The word Fall comes from the old english word feallan which means "to fall or to die."  This got changed to "fall of the leaf" because as we know the leaves change into glorious colors and fall from the tree. Hence - we get the word Fall.  Autumn has Latin roots and comes from the latin word autumnus which also means to fall.

So get out there and enjoy Harvet/Fall/Autumn and you can start tonight in downtown Summerville at the Harvest Festival between 5-8:00. Hope to see you there.

There - you are a fall/autumn expert now!

fall, autumn, trees

Tuesday, September 1, 2015


If you see these 2 fantastic ladies in or around Summerville make sure you wish them a Congrats on winning the paintings from the Summerville Farmer's Market Saturday.  Roxie (left) and Amanda (Right) are the two winners.  LiveinSummerville.com is happy to give them these amazing paintings by Brian Lariviere (a local painter) and encourages everyone to check out www.liveinsummerville.com at least weekly for updates and event information.