Category: Home Improvement

Running a Painting Company

Brodie French

Running Lou’s Painting Company is one of the most profitable types of businesses. This type of business is also easier to start than other trade businesses.

Painting Company

Many painting companies use subcontractors rather than employees to reduce costs. This practice is risky for homeowners because these companies often do not run background checks on crew members.

Whether you’re planning to start a painting company as a contractor or independent contractor, it’s important to consider your state, city and town’s business licensing requirements. These laws are typically enacted and enforced on a local level, so you’ll want to talk to a lawyer for expert advice before you hang your shingle and start working.

Most areas will require a business license for you to work professionally. This is a good way to prevent any issues with the law and protect your personal assets in the event of legal action. It’s also a good idea to open a business bank account and get a credit card, which will help you separate your personal finances from those of your company. You’ll also need to register your business and file a DBA (Doing Business As).

The structure of your company will also determine the type of licenses you need. For example, most painting companies can get away with a sole proprietorship, which is a common choice for new businesses. However, this means that your personal assets aren’t separated from those of the business, which could put them at risk in the event of a lawsuit or other disaster. A limited liability corporation (LLC) is a more secure option, and it’s often preferred by larger businesses.

Another requirement for commercial painters is a federal tax ID number, or Employee Identification Number (EIN). This number will allow you to open a bank account in your business name and receive credit cards. It’s also required if you plan to hire employees.

Lastly, you’ll need to obtain the proper equipment and supplies for your business. This includes high-quality paint and brushes, paint sprayers for large projects, and safety equipment. It’s important to choose the right tools for the job, as they’ll affect both your productivity and the quality of your work.

Once you’ve got all of the necessary information and documents in place, it’s time to get started. You’ll need to find clients, market your services and develop a business plan. In addition, you’ll need to set up a website and make sure it includes photos of your work.

Business plan

A business plan for a painting company can help you clarify your vision, set financial goals, and create a roadmap to success. It also gives you a chance to discuss your ideas with potential investors or lenders and helps you build credibility. While there are no legal requirements to have a business plan, it can help you save time and money by creating a structure and laying out your goals from the start.

The executive summary should offer a quick overview of your business, detailing your market positioning, range of painting and decorative services, and day-to-day operations. It should also include a description of how your business will integrate into the local community. Finally, it should explain how you plan to attract clients and differentiate your business from competitors.

In the management and co-founding section, describe the experience of your core team members, including their expertise in painting techniques, project management, and other skills that will support the growth of your business. Also, detail the roles that each member will play in the business. This will help you define the company’s structure and ensure that each member has a clear role in the success of your painting business.

Next, document the types of painting services your business will provide, and include a pricing strategy that reflects your quality of work and satisfies the needs of your target market. For example, you might offer package deals or loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and customer retention. In this section, you should also include any short-term and long-term financing requirements for your painting business.

Finally, your business plan should include a detailed financial forecast for the first five years of operation. This includes revenue projections, expense breakdowns, and a break-even analysis. It is important to be realistic with your projections, and to avoid overestimating expenses or overstating revenues. A small-business accounting tool like Jobber can help you track expenses and manage cash flow with a simple online interface.

Once you’ve drafted your business plan, it’s time to get started! Open a business bank account and a credit card to keep your business’s finances separate from your personal ones. You should also buy business insurance, which will protect you in the event of a disaster. Consider purchasing a small-business package policy that bundles business liability, commercial property, and business income insurance.

Insurance

While painting contractors often take steps to prevent accidents from happening on the job, they may not be able to eliminate all risk. If something slips past their risk management plan, painting business insurance policies can help cover the costs of damages that result. If the business is incorporated as a limited liability company, personal assets may also be protected.

Most painter business insurance policies start with general liability insurance, which helps protect against claims that your work caused damage to a third party’s property. This type of coverage typically includes protection against property damage, bodily injury, and advertising injury claims. For example, suppose your employee accidentally spills paint on a customer’s rug while working in their home. This could cause a significant amount of damage that would be expensive to repair or replace. A good painter business insurance policy would help pay for these expenses up to the policy limit.

Workers’ compensation and commercial auto insurance are additional coverages that you may need as a painter. Workers’ compensation is required in most states for employees, and it helps pay for medical expenses and disability benefits if they are injured or sick on the job. Commercial auto insurance covers vehicles used for business purposes, such as driving to client sites to pick up supplies or transporting employees to and from the workplace.

Having the right insurance can help you build trust and confidence with clients. It shows you care about your business and that you’re a serious, reliable contractor. In addition, talented employees want to work for companies that take their safety and well-being seriously. If a painting contractor doesn’t have these types of insurance, it might be a red flag. Before hiring a painter, request copies of their insurance documents and verify that the policy is current. This can help prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications down the line. Also, check the expiration dates to ensure that they will be valid for the duration of your project. This way, you won’t be stuck with a large bill at the end of the project.

Marketing

Marketing is a vital component of a successful painting business. The internet has transformed consumer behavior, making it necessary for painters to use digital marketing strategies to attract customers. This includes optimizing websites, leveraging social media platforms, and implementing paid advertising campaigns. It is also important to develop a marketing plan that sets annual earning goals and benchmarks for the company.

To attract more clients, a painting company should target both homeowners and businesses. It should also focus on offering a competitive price, quality service, and excellent customer support. In addition, it should invest in a solid brand image, which will help to build credibility. A well-designed logo will help to establish the brand’s identity and attract potential customers. It should be a unique, professional, and catchy design that reflects the company’s core values.

A well-designed website is another essential tool for a successful painting business. It should be mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. It should also feature a visual portfolio of past projects and testimonials from satisfied customers. Moreover, the website should contain a web chat plug-in that is either AI-driven or managed in real-time by a customer service team to quickly answer questions.

Creating a strong online presence is crucial for any small business, including a painting company. In order to gain traction, it should create profiles on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. These profiles should showcase pictures of previous painting jobs and demonstrate the company’s expertise. It should also post daily updates on its services. Lastly, it should promote its services through local search engine optimization (SEO) to reach a larger audience.

It is also important to have a good relationship with local influencers. This can be done by collaborating with a blogger who shares your content on their channel or by mentioning your business in their posts. You can even run a contest with them to gain more followers and exposure for your business.

Finally, you should distribute printed marketing materials to attract more customers. These can include flyers that are hung in strategic locations. Alternatively, you can make them yourself using free, online tools like Canva. Flyers are a cost-effective way to generate leads and promote your painting company. They can be distributed in areas with a high concentration of potential customers, such as home improvement stores and community events.

How Hardwood Floor Refinishing Can Add Years to Your Floors Lifespan

Lester Cherry

Hardwood Floor Refinishing Bergen County NJ breathes new life into floors and adds precious years to their lifespan. It’s a costly project, but it is well worth the investment.

Before starting, furniture must be removed from the room being refinished. This also includes removing baseboard molding. This can be a time-consuming task and it’s best to leave this to a professional.

Sanding

If your floors have a significant amount of surface scratches and dents, it is time for sanding. Sanding will remove the top layer of finish that protects the wood and leave you with bare timber. This is a messy job and it is recommended that you hire professionals to do the job. They will know exactly how to do the job safely, quickly and effectively.

Before the sanding begins, it is important to prepare the area. Tape over all electrical outlets and vents to prevent dust from blowing into other rooms. Also, remove furniture and cover any doors with plastic to avoid snagging on nails. Once the sanding is complete, it is important to vacuum the area thoroughly to eliminate any remaining dust particles. This can take a few hours to do properly and will make your floors look much better.

Once the floor is completely sanded and vacuumed, it is ready for the staining process. Staining is done with polyurethane or a natural oil-based stain. Polyurethane is a good choice as it is durable and has a quick drying time. It is available in different sheens ranging from matte (low luster) to high gloss. Natural oils have become more popular lately as they are environmentally friendly and give the floor a warm and natural look.

It is best to do the staining process while the floors are still sanded and dry. This will allow the stain to penetrate the pores of the wood and not sit on the top surface of the sanded hardwood. Once the stain is dry, it is important to buff the floors again with a buffer to remove any rough spots and prepare them for the final coats of polyurethane.

Buffing

Over time, wood floors can lose their top protective layer. This is due to everyday wear and tear – dirty shoes, dog nails, furniture dragging and scratching – which causes this layer to thin. This leaves the floor vulnerable to damage and dingy looking. By buffing and re-applying the top protective coat, the flooring will look great and last much longer before a full refinish is needed.

This is one of the most common fixes for hardwood floors and it’s very affordable as well. Buffing is a surface finishing process that smooths and polishes a substrate, enhancing its shine and luster. It also eliminates minor scratches and scuff marks on the surface, rejuvenating its appearance. It is often used on wood floors, but it can be applied to other materials such as metals and plastics.

To buff a floor, you’ll need a machine that can be rented from your local hardware store. Before starting, clear the area to work in and protect it with masking tape and plastic sheeting to avoid staining furniture and walls. These machines are very high-powered and can cause serious injury if you’re not careful. Ensure that you have a good grasp of the operation before using it.

A buff and re-coat should be part of a regular maintenance plan for all hardwood floors. This is a very cost effective way to protect your investment and extend the life of your wood. It’s like putting on sunblock to protect your skin from the elements – you need to apply it regularly, or it will be too late once you start getting burned. It will also help if you’re thinking about selling your home in the future. The shiny finish will make the home look brighter and can increase its value.

Polyurethane

You can find a polyurethane wood floor finish at most hardware stores. There are many options available including water-based and oil-based, the choice will depend on your cleaning and maintenance routines and the look you want. The polyurethane will protect the hardwood floor and keep it looking new. It’s best to apply three coats of the finish and sand between each coat. This will give you the best results and longevity for your flooring.

When you’re ready to recoat your floors, be sure that they are clean and completely dry before you start. It’s also a good idea to open windows and doors to help the air circulate and keep any fumes from lingering in the room. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test an area of the floor for color and reaction to the finish before applying it to the entire floor.

It’s important to remember that the top layer of your wood floor is a sacrificial layer. It is designed to protect the hardwood underneath it and will be scratched and gouged over time, as well as from furniture and regular use. If you notice that the protective layer is wearing down to the wood underneath, it is a sign that it’s time for refinishing.

Be sure to follow all the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area when you are applying the polyurethane, it may emit toxic fumes. Be sure to wear a respirator and eye protection as well. A good tip is to mix the polyurethane and stir it frequently, rather than shaking it, this will help to eliminate bubbles and achieve a more even coat. If you’re using an oil-based finish, be sure to soak your brush in mineral spirits prior to application.

Varnish

Over time the protective layer of your wood floors will begin to thin, making your floors more vulnerable to scratches and dulling. Regular buffing and re-coating will help prolong the life of your floor without needing to refinish it. It’s a lot like putting on sunblock before you go outside – if you wait until your skin is already sun-burned it will be too late.

Varnish is a liquid coating material that dries to a hard, transparent film. It is used to protect and enhance wooden surfaces such as furniture, paintings and doors. It can be either water or oil-based, and is often formulated with resins, drying oils, driers and volatile solvents.

The main difference between varnish and lacquer is the sheen level of the finish, with varnish having a more traditional satin sheen than lacquer, which can have a sheen that ranges from high gloss to ultra-matte. Varnish offers protection from chemical damage, such as acids and alkali, physical damages like scuffs and dents, and provides UV protection that helps prevent color fading.

To apply varnish, a clean lint free cloth should be used to wipe the product on. If you’re new to brushing varnish, it’s recommended that you practice on scrap plywood first, using long, steady strokes. Avoid rubbing too hard, as you can create bubbles in the finish that will show when it dries.

Once the varnish has dried, you should lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper and vacuum the dust with a tack rag. It will then be ready for another coat of varnish. Make sure to keep the room warm and dry between coats, and allow each coat to fully cure before applying the next one. It may take up to 24 hours for oil-based varnishes to completely dry, and it’s important that you remove all furnishings, quarter round trim, vent covers and pictures to ensure proper ventilation.

Installation

Hardwood floors are a beautiful addition to any home, but over time they can become scratched and dull. Resurfacing or refinishing is one way to restore your floor’s appearance and extend their life. The best method depends on the condition of your floor and your desired look. For example, refinishing may be necessary to change the color of your hardwood floor. However, if your floor has deep gouges and discoloration, resurfacing might be a better option.

Refinishing can be done on solid 3/4-inch hardwood or engineered wood, but it’s best to leave this project to the professionals. Engineered wood has a layered construction and a thinner wear layer than solid hardwood. It’s also important to note that refinishing will cause dust to gather in unprotected areas of your home, so it’s best to cover vents and seal doorways with plastic sheeting.

Before refinishing your hardwood floors, remove all furniture and other items from the room. This will allow you to focus on the job at hand and avoid re-sanding unnecessary areas of your floor.

Once the sanding process is complete, it’s a good idea to vacuum your floor and sweep any remaining dust particles from unprotected areas. It’s also important to install base shoe moldings and quarter-round trim to protect the edges of your new finish from damage.

It’s also important to choose a high-quality hardwood floor finish for your refinishing project. A water-based polyurethane dries quickly and is easier to clean up, while an oil-based poly is slower to dry but allows you to create a smooth, glossy finish. Be sure to read the product labels carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

A Comprehensive Guide To Ceiling Repair

Damian Steele

Ceilings may get the least amount of attention when it comes to home maintenance, but properly caring for them can make a big difference. Learn how Ceiling Repairs Perth fixes common issues such as water damage, sagging ceilings, and textured ceilings.

Water damage in ceilings must be repaired immediately. Otherwise, the material could deteriorate and compromise structural integrity, threaten safety, or foster microbial growth.

ceiling repair

Water Damage

Water damage to your ceiling is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Not only does it cause cosmetic problems, but it can also lead to severe structural damage and health issues. In many cases, water damage to your ceiling is irreversible and will require complete removal. However, it’s possible to save your ceiling if you take the proper steps to address the problem right away.

The first step in repairing water damage to your ceiling is to work out the source and severity of the problem. This will help you determine the level of immediate repairs required, as well as any long-term fixes to prevent future problems. Water is prone to traveling some distance from its source, which may make pinpointing the exact location of the leak difficult.

Once the source of the leak has been identified, it’s important to dry the affected area. This will help prevent microbial growth behind the drywall and reduce the likelihood of future problems. To speed up the drying process, you can use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers.

If the water damage is limited to a small section of your ceiling, you may be able to touch up the damaged area and repaint. However, if the staining is widespread, it may be necessary to remove the entire section of the ceiling and replace it.

In addition to stains, water damage can cause discoloration of wallpaper and paint. This is caused by tannins deposited by the water, which can then bleed through the new paint when applied. It’s recommended that you use oil-based primers to avoid this problem.

If your drywall is stained, you’ll need to sand the affected area down to the substrate before priming and painting. This can be a daunting task, especially if the staining is widespread, but it’s essential for ensuring that your repaired ceiling is water-resistant. Water-resistant drywall will help to protect your ceiling from further damage and will make it much easier to clean. It will also make your home safer, as it will be less likely to collapse in the event of another flood.

Sagging Ceilings

A sagging ceiling can not only detract from the appearance of your home, but it may also cause structural damage or even pose health risks. It’s important to embark on the repair process without delay, whether that means mitigating water damage or reinforcing the structure of the ceiling.

Often, sagging ceilings are caused by deterioration of the materials that make up the ceiling. This is especially common in older homes that feature plaster ceilings, which can start to crack and sag over time. In this case, the repairs will involve removing and replacing the damaged materials.

In other cases, sagging ceilings are related to water damage or issues with the home’s foundation. For example, if the land beneath the house is poorly graded or if it was constructed on poor soil, the structure can sink into the earth. This can lead to sagging ceilings and a variety of other problems, including cracked drywall and other structural damage.

Other causes of sagging ceilings include a lack of support or poor installation. For example, if the ceiling was installed incorrectly or if the plasterboard was not properly attached to the joists, it can start to sag. This type of problem is typically related to issues with the construction of the house, which should be addressed by a qualified tradesperson.

Water leaks can be a serious problem for a ceiling, as the water can weaken the drywall or plaster and cause it to sag or collapse. To prevent this, it’s important to regularly check for and repair any leaking spots in the ceiling and attic. If a water leak is not repaired quickly, it can lead to costly ceiling repairs down the road.

In some cases, sagging ceilings can be caused by a failure of the drywall tape to hold the drywall together. To fix this, it’s necessary to remove the old drywall and apply a new layer. It’s important to use a high-quality primer and ceiling paint, which is mold and mildew-resistant. Finally, it’s important to sand and smooth the surface before applying a fresh coat of paint.

Textured Ceilings

A textured ceiling adds character and interest to a room, but it can also mask damage and other issues. Textured ceilings can hide drywall cracks and imperfections. They can also provide acoustic benefits in large rooms. However, textured ceilings can be harder to repair than smooth ceilings. Additionally, textured ceilings are more susceptible to water damage. Because of this, if your textured ceiling has developed cracks or is displaying signs of deterioration you should make a note of it and hire a professional to assess the problem.

Different textured ceilings require different types of paint and mud to create their unique look. For example, some require skid trowels while others are sprayed on. The best way to determine what type of mud and texture to use is to research the specific style of ceiling you have.

For example, if you have a popcorn ceiling, then you will need to find a popcorn texture paint. There are aerosol cans of texture paint at home improvement stores that are easy to use and match most modern popcorn textures. However, it is recommended to practice applying this type of texture on a piece of cardboard before trying it on your ceiling to ensure you don’t make a mess and ruin the finish.

Other textured ceilings can be cleaned using an air compressor. You can also buy orange peel spray textures at home improvement stores that will work well on your ceilings. This type of texture looks similar to a stucco finish and works well in rooms with natural or soft colors.

Textured ceilings can be difficult to clean, but it is important to keep them clean. Nothing destroys a room’s ambiance like a dirty ceiling. Textured ceilings are often a magnet for dust, cooking oils, and other debris, so it’s a good idea to regularly vacuum your textured ceilings or have a professional perform a cleaning service to keep them looking their best.

Cracks in a textured ceiling can be repaired with drywall mud and a hand trowel. If the cracks are significant, then you should hire a professional to assess the damage and determine whether it is structural and should be addressed by a pro. For example, significant cracks can indicate a leak and should be repaired immediately.

Ceiling Leaks

A leaking ceiling is the most dangerous type of problem that can occur, and it must be addressed immediately to minimize water damage throughout the home. Water leaks can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage. They may also cause electrical problems, such as short circuits. A professional should be called to make the necessary repairs, but homeowners can take some precautions to prevent further damage until the plumber arrives.

Begin by identifying the location of the leak. Look for puddles or pooling water on the floor and follow them upward to locate the source of the leak. The puddles often form an invisible line that leads to the leak. If the drywall is saturated, it may be necessary to remove it and replace it.

If the ceiling is sagging or if there are stains, these will also indicate that it is time to call a roofer. Also, consider whether the leak occurs only after rain or during certain times of the year. This can help determine if the issue is related to the weather or plumbing.

Water leaks can also originate from electrical wires, drywall, or insulation. If the drywall is soaked, there is a risk of structural damage to the home and personal belongings stored above the ceiling. Moreover, if the drywall isn’t replaced quickly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other unwanted organisms.

Before removing the damaged drywall, protect it by placing a tarp on the floor. Also, put down buckets to catch the water. If the drywall is saturated, the insulation underneath will likely become contaminated. The contaminated insulation must be removed, along with the drywall and the beams beneath.

After the drywall is removed and the area thoroughly dried, it is time to install the replacement. Before installing the drywall, it is a good idea to add waterproofing solutions to the attic, soffit, or gutter to minimize future issues. The products available are relatively inexpensive and are easy to apply. In addition, they can be purchased at most hardware stores.

The Benefits of Replacing Windows

Brodie French

Replacement Windows MA can make your home feel brighter and more welcoming. The right windows can also maximize natural light and improve your view.

Replacing Windows

A new window installation is less disruptive than other renovations because it does not require removing siding or changing the home’s trim. This makes it a good choice for homeowners who want to maintain their carefully curated exterior appearance.

A home’s windows play an important role, offering both a view of the outside and natural light. They also provide a way to add character and curb appeal, and when they are outdated or damaged, homeowners often upgrade them with replacement windows. In addition to their aesthetic value, however, they can also offer several energy efficiency benefits.

ENERGY STAR(r) certified windows conserve energy to help reduce utility bills, while improving comfort and adding to a home’s resale value. By using double or triple-pane glass, a warm edge spacer bar and quality frame materials, energy efficient windows are designed to reduce heat transfer. This helps lower cooling and heating bills in the summer and winter, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Replacing old windows with new ENERGY STAR(r) energy-efficient models can save 12 to 13 percent on your home energy bills. In addition, modern replacement windows have better UV protection than older window types, helping to prevent the fading of carpets, furniture and other organic fabrics.

The improved insulating properties of quality replacement windows also help block noise from outside, providing a more peaceful environment in your home. Many manufacturers now offer a variety of frame options, from wood to vinyl and aluminum-clad wood to fiberglass, allowing consumers to find the perfect look for their homes.

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the economic and environmental impact of their energy usage, with air conditioning and heating responsible for 20% of the average residential home’s greenhouse gas emission. Replacing outdated windows with high-efficiency models can significantly reduce this percentage.

New windows can also boost the security of your home, with features such as impact-resistant glass and advanced locking systems available. These extras can be a selling point to potential buyers, as well as making your home safer for your family.

Increased Home Value

When it comes to home improvement projects, many homeowners are interested in upgrading their property to increase its market value. While this is a worthwhile endeavor for anyone, it can be especially beneficial to those who are considering selling their home in the near future. Many home upgrades, including window replacement, are able to provide a substantial return on investment.

When looking at your existing windows, it is important to remember that they are likely outdated and may not be operating as efficiently as newer windows. Additionally, they may be showing signs of wear and tear and may not fully open or close. These are all indicators that it is time to replace your windows. Newer replacement windows are designed with modern features that will add to the overall appearance and functionality of your home.

One of the biggest advantages that new windows can offer is increased energy efficiency. As a result, homeowners are able to save on their energy bills. These savings are an added benefit for potential buyers who are seeking a more environmentally friendly property. Additionally, many local utility companies offer rebates for ENERGY STAR certified windows. These rebates can help offset the initial cost of the installation.

Other benefits that new windows can offer include enhanced privacy. With options like frosted glass, tinting, and decorative patterns, modern windows are able to block out unwanted noise from the outside world. This can be especially appealing for families who live in a busy area or on a street with a lot of traffic.

New windows can also provide a more spacious feel to your home. Many homeowners opt for replacement windows with slim sashes, or frames that hold the glass, to create a more contemporary look. This modern look is another appealing feature for prospective buyers, who are often looking for a more open and airy home.

With all of these benefits, it is clear why replacement windows are a great way to improve your property and increase its market value. If you are ready to upgrade your home, contact the team at DaBella to learn more about our products and services. We are happy to help you find the perfect replacement windows for your property, and ensure a smooth installation process.

Better Appearance

If you have old windows that are hard to open or that let in more air than they keep out, new replacement windows can dramatically improve your home’s appearance. They come in a wide range of styles, with frame materials and glazing options that can cut energy bills and make your house look more stylish.

When choosing new windows, consider your goals for the project. If energy efficiency is your primary goal, choose a model with Low-E glass that reflects infrared heat and blocks ultraviolet rays. If curb appeal is important, choose a window with an attractive color and profile that complements your home’s architectural style.

Another factor to consider is whether you want a full-frame replacement or an insert that fits into the existing frame. Both models can be improved with the addition of trim and moldings that provide a custom look.

Replacement windows are available in vinyl, wood, and aluminum-clad frames, with each material offering specific advantages. Vinyl is the least expensive, requires little maintenance and comes in a wide range of colors and finishes. It’s also impact-resistant and doesn’t fade or rot, but it may not offer the aesthetic of wood or fiberglass.

Wood frames are typically more expensive but provide superior weather protection and insulation. They are available with or without a finish; those that don’t require staining can be painted to match your decor. Some manufacturers also offer composite frames, which are made of a combination of materials for the best of both worlds.

If you’re considering a replacement window, consult Consumer Reports ratings of major brands to see which ones perform best. Check for the Energy Star label, which signifies that a window meets certain government-set energy efficiency and other performance requirements. Many models also have features that can make your home more comfortable and healthy. For example, some models allow you to separate the panes of glass within a window to reduce the amount of dust and allergens that can enter your home. This can help people who suffer from allergies or who live with asthma.

Increased Natural Light

Having more sunlight in your home will boost your mood, help you focus on tasks and projects, and minimize energy costs throughout the day. Adding new windows that let more sunshine into your home can also make rooms feel larger and brighter, increasing your property value and creating a warm, inviting living space for friends and family.

New replacement windows are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and finishes. They are made to fit into an existing frame, minimizing disruptions to your walls and trim. Replacement windows are often less expensive than new construction because they do not require a whole new window sash to support them.

Many modern, narrow framed window styles, such as those found in Great Lakes Window’s ComfortSmart and ecoSmart lines, are designed to maximize daylight. Their sleek, attractive appearance not only enhances your interior décor, but can also add resale value to your home because buyers appreciate the look of natural light and the benefits it brings.

To ensure you’re ordering the right size window, measure the width and height of your existing window frame to get a precise measurement. Start by measuring the horizontal distance from the outside edge of one side jamb to the inside edge of the other side jamb, then compare your measurements. The shortest number is the rough opening width, which will serve as your reference when ordering replacement windows.

Next, take three vertical measurements from the top to the middle and bottom of your frame, then circle the smallest measurement to determine the rough opening height. These are your final measurements that will be used when evaluating your options and placing your order.

To find the best way to increase natural light in your home, consider installing bay or bow windows that offer a deluge of sunshine from multiple angles. They are a great option for bedrooms, family rooms, and kitchens where more natural light will make everyone happier and more productive. Another great way to maximize daylight is by installing single hung or double hung windows with a high visible transmittance (VT) rating. These windows are designed to filter in a maximum amount of sunlight while blocking out heat and UV rays.