Are You Ready For Vista? What You Need To Know About The Next Microsoft Windows

Vista is coming soon to a computer near you, are you ready?

Unlike past editions of Microsoft Windows this new version

seems to be generating a lot more pre-launch buzz. Maybe it

has to do with all the new improved browsing and computer

features that the Vista will supposedly deliver.

What is Vista?

Vista is the new version of Microsoft Windows, which will offer

users a greatly improved browsing and computer experience mainly

through more dynamic 'live' windows and faster presentation. It will

offer a more robust security (direly needed!) and more business features

in its corporate OS with encryption, Unix services, and virtual

machine capabilities.

You will be able to use different graphical tools to more efficiently

manage your information and applications on your desktop. If you read

the information on the official Vista site, you may come away believing

your desktop will never look or feel the same again.

Vista Homepage: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/

There is one underlying reason why this may just be the case.

According to the Longhorn Statement of last year, RSS will play a

major role in these applications and in the OS itself. Longhorn

is the name for the Microsoft Windows Server code. RSS stands

for 'Really Simple Syndication' and Microsoft should be applauded

for bringing RSS to the forefront. Many believe RSS will change

the very nature of how we use the Internet and our computers.

Regardless of what it may contain, the new Windows Vista has

many consumers delaying the purchase of their next PC or laptop

until the new Windows arrives. Many were hoping for a pre-Christmas

release but...

When Will It Arrive?

According to Microsoft's own official site on Vista, Windows Vista

will be available in early 2007. However, Vista (as of Sept.22, 2006)

is already in Beta testing with over 30,000 testers from around the globe.

Read more about this at the Windows Vista Team Blog:

http://blogs.technet.com/windowsvista/default.aspx

Vista will have TWO Interfaces

Vista Windows will have two interfaces, Basic and Aero. The Basic

Interface will be similar to Windows XP and will run on most current

PCs and Laptops. The Aero Interface is more advanced and you will need

higher system requirements to take advantage of all the new features.

(See Below)

Actually, Vista will have six versions in all. According to the Vista

web site these versions will range for the very basic up to the highest

performance level.

* Windows Vista Starter which runs only on 32-bit systems and will be

so on new machines in India, Thailand and other emerging markets.

* Windows Vista Home Basic which is very comparable to XP Home which

will not offer the high-end graphics and media features.

* Windows Vista Home Premium which will offer these graphics and media.

* Windows Vista Business which is similar to the current XP Professional.

* Windows Vista Enterprise will be only available to those customers

with volume licenses - will offer Unix service, encryption and virtual

machine capabilities.

* Windows Vista Ultimate will combine Vista Enterprise and Vista Home

Premium which will give customers the highest version of Windows.

There will also be "N" versions of Vista Business and Vista Home Basic

for the European market that will have Window Media Player removed.

Microsoft is catering to all levels of the marketplace and its a prudent

business move because many current PCs and laptops don't have the system

requirements to take advantage of the highest version of Vista Aero.

Your System Requirements for Vista?

Your system requirements for the new Windows Vista will depend on which

version of Vista you're buying. For the basic Vista you will need a

modern processor (800MHz or more) with at least 512 MB of system memory.

Your graphics processor should be DirectX 9 capable.

For the fully loaded Vista you will need a little more

robust system with at least 1 GHz processor with 1 GB of

system memory. This should be supported with DirectX 9 graphics

with 128 MB of graphics memory. A premium graphics card like ATI

or NVIDIA is recommended and you will need a 40 GB hard drive

with 15 GB free space. In order to watch and record

live TV you may have to add additional hardware.

Still not sure your current system will support Vista, just

run the free Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor RC found here:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/upgradeadvisor/default.mspx

This program will tell you if your system can currently run Vista

or if you will need to upgrade your computer.

What noteworthy features will Vista give you?

If we get over the improved features like better organizing

of information, better security, and more reliability - what new

features will the Vista deliver?

One that really jumps out: INSTANT SEARCH

Instead of using the slow cascading "All Programs", you

can just type in a file name or task and you will find what

you're looking for. The new instant start menu will

be a lot quicker, saving you time.

This also jumps out: DYNAMIC WINDOWS

Perhaps, one of the major improvement will be in the

appearance and use of the new desktop with transparent

"glass-like" windows and animated windows on the taskbar.

It will have live thumbnails on the taskbar, place your

mouse over these and you will see the live contents without

having to bring it up on your screen. You will also be able

to create a three-dimensional stack of open windows on your

desktop and you will have smoother performance in dynamic

content or windows such as video.

And this one: SPEECH RECOGNITION

Speech Recognition will play a major role in the new

Windows Vista which promises to feature all the

latest Microsoft speech technologies with 'unparalleled

voice recognition accuracy' supported with multiple

languages and a more human-sounding synthesizer --

step aside Stephen Hawkins!

Plus, you will be able to control your computer by

using your voice. It will provide you with a list

of smart choices, whether it's selecting a word or

choosing an application. Mouseless and hands-free

computing tasks -- might be worth seeing.

And this: WATCH AND RECORD LIVE TV

You will be able to watch and record live TV with Vista. You

may have to use additional hardware to access this feature.

It is only a matter of time before the union of the Internet

and full TV broadcasting services. Windows Vista may help in

furthering this rather slow process. Integration, Integration

Integration.

Also this: BETTER SECURITY AND ENCRYPTION

The new Window Vista offers improved security and has a

few new encryption programs. There is something called

the Windows BitLocker(TM) Drive Encryption which help protect

the sensitive data on your hard drive - especially important

in our ever increasing mobile lifestyles and workforces.

This program will encrypt your entire Windows system and

protect your information in the case of a stolen or lost

PC or laptop.

Then there is the Encrypting File System (EFS) which will protect

user-level files and folders. This is important when two

or more people share the same computer as in a company network.

Companies will be able to use smart cards with EFS keys to allow

employees or workers to access only the content that's appropriate

for them to access. In addition, companies or users will be able

to restrict use of USB keys and other removable storage devices,

thus hampering the quick removal of data from your computer.

Wildcard: What role will RSS Play?

For interested techies and web watchers, the role RSS will

play in the new Vista is an intriguing question. What about

all those new RSS applications? The list extensions? What will

it bring? Read more here http://blogs.msdn.com/rssteam/

Will RSS (via Vista) be given the means to finally turn the

Internet into a Billion Channel Universe? Turning every web site

into its own mini-broadcasting system sending out its content

to all interested parties. Don't come to us, we will deliver.

Changing static content into dynamic content. Furthermore,

will speech recognition turn this dynamic content into a fully

interactive hands-free browsing experience. Might give a whole

new meaning to the expression 'Look Ma - no hands!'

All kidding aside, Windows Vista does offer some unique features

that will change how we use our computers. It offers greater security

and more integrated networking and applications. It does promise

to make our desktop interaction more responsive and smoother

with 'live' social bookmarks and windows. One can only hope

Vista lives up to its name and gives us a whole new viewing

experience.

...
The author is a full-time online marketer who runs numerous web sites, including two sites on Internet Marketing. For the latest web marketing tools try: Internet Marketing Tools He also runs an online Laptop Guide and has a keen interest in RSS and Computers. Go here for the latest Gaming Laptops Copyright c 2006 Titus Hoskins. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

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In the Window Cleaning Business, It's all About Keeping Your Focus: Proper Focus Equals Success

Hey Folks:

This month, I wanted to talk to you about the benefits of keeping your focus in your window cleaning business.

So what do you say we get right to it? Here we go...

**********************************

The benefits of keeping your Focus

**********************************

Without beating around the bush, I see a lot of window washers trying to either:

1. work other businesses in addition to window washing hoping something clicks.

and/or

2. offer many, multiple services in addition to window washing.

Let's talk about number 1 first.

1. Working other businesses in addition to window washing hoping something clicks.

This is probably the hardest thing for me to do...keeping focus on one business/one opportunity. Can you relate to that? I think that's a problem with many people.

I mean there are soooooo many business opportunities out there, and they all sound great when reading

about them. They really do. So what do we do when we're surrounded by all these supposedly "great" opportunities?

Well...I used to buy into or join lots of them. But I'll tell you the first thing I did when entering the window washing business. I looked back over the years and analyzed the successes and failures I've had. I knew that window washing was the last stop for me, so failure wasn't an option. The wheels had to stop spinning.

After my little "realty check", it finally hit me like a ton of bricks...

It simply all boiled down to having too many irons in the fire all the time. It's tough to spread yourself out among 2 or more businesses. Not only in terms of time, but in terms of deciding which ones to invest in.

Something has to give, so the end result was nothing really took off. In one time period, I was selling asset protection to high income prospects, servicing a bunch of payphones I bought, and talking to day care centers about buying some personalized books for the little kiddies.

Needless to say, bah humbug on that. And the bank account showed it.

But being a "business start up junkie" required some discipline as my window washing business grew. Whenever a business looked appealing or an opportunity arose, my blinders had to come on. Contrary to popular belief, the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence.

After my initial success of capturing window washing customers, I quickly realized that the profit potential in the window washing biz can be absolutely enormous. Why veer off course and dilute that profit by spending time building or doing another business?

One of the reasons I think I was so intent on forming another business is because of the philosophy of "don't put all your eggs into one basket".

This was drilled into me from a very young age. But here's the thing-windows are NOT going anywhere. We'll have glass forever, and more of it is appearing every day. It's a business that will never dry up and blow away unless people start living in caves. :o)

So I encourage you, regardless whether you're in the window washing biz part-time or full-time, give it 100% part-time or 100% full-time effort. The rewards can be tremendous as I am seeing all across the country from hundreds of my students.

2. Offering many, multiple services in addition to window washing.

This is a killer way to make lots of additional profits on top of window washing profits, but my experience has shown that if you do this BEFORE you've established a certain level of trust with the customer, it'll be much harder for you to accomplish this smorgasboard approach.

At the completion of a window cleaning job is a perfect time to go after the add on business like cleaning ceiling fans and mirrors like I discuss in my manual How to Start Your Own Residential Window Washing Business. But before you even secure them as a customer, it's way too early to bombard them with lots of other stuff.

Just plant a seed. Be subtle about it. The best way I've found to handle it is to use a "leave behind card" after the job is done, and then cement it further throughout the upcoming months, and throughout your entire relationship with that customer by sending out periodic correspondence.

Your little leave behind card could be similar to a tent card that you see in hotels. Inside the card is a listing of your additional services. Or have a flyer made up that details all your additional services and leave that with the customer.

And as far as "future correspondence", below is a letter you're more than welcome to use in case you

want to capture additional business besides your window washing jobs:

Dear John and Nancy:

Thank you so much for the opportunity to regularly

maintain the cleanliness of your glass.

As you may be aware, in addition to cleaning and

maintaining the windows of our ever-growing cust-

omer base, we have recently expanded our services

to include:

--pressure washing

--blind cleaning

--gutter cleaning

--driveway sealing

--awning cleaning

And if you are in need of assistance with anything

else, please let us know. Although window washing

is, and will continue to be, our main focus, our

customers are continually asking us if we do any

additional services, so if we have the knowledge

and tools to get your desired job done for you,

we'll be glad to take care of it. If not, we'll

point you in the direction of a reputable person

or company who can.

Thank you once again for the opportunity to be of

service to you and we'll see you soon for your next

window cleaning.

Sincerely,

Steve Wright

Clearview Window Washing Service

There's a goldmine sitting with each customer if you stroke 'em over the years using the above approach vs. using the one time "hit 'em over the head" approach.

The above letter also serves the dual purpose of keeping your company name in front of your customers, so even if a customer didn't need any additional work done, you'll still benefit from the exposure.

Now I talk about customers above, but what about prospects?

Well...when dealing with prospects, the trust factor definitely hasn't been established yet, so it makes

it an absolute necessity to focus on capturing the window washing job and forgetting about the myriad

of other services you perform.

I mean if you're marketing for window washing prospects, and they respond to your window washing

advertisement, it only makes sense to hone in on window washing, right?

Yet I see a few folks try the "jack of all trades" approach where if the prospect doesn't make a decision to get their windows cleaned after the estimate has been presented, the window washer will immediately turn their attention to service #2, service #3, etc.

I know the theory is that if you offer 10 different services, they have to pick one, right?

Not necessarily.

Too much stuff presented can cause confusion and indecision. People really don't like to make decisions, so too many choices forces them into making a complicated decision. Therefore they don't make

ANY decision.

If you try and push too much down their throat, they may resist, and then you walk away with zilch, nada,

zippo. A lot of income could be lost over the years as a result.

I'm sure you've heard about the saying that goes like this: "Jack of all trades, master of none". That fit me like a glove for years UNTIL stepping into the window washing biz.

As I mentioned earlier, that's when I looked back over the years and wised up, and then instead of

"master of none", it was more like "master of one". The results were extraordinary.

So try it if you don't already. Present your window washing estimate, attempt to close the deal, or through your proper follow up strategy get the deal closed for window washing. Turn them from a

window washing prospect into a window washing customer.

THEN step back and watch your relationship with that new customer turn into all kinds of additional services and jobs, in addition to you raking in the profits by regularly cleaning their windows.

In conclusion, resist the distractions and resist the urge to branch out into other "things". Focus, focus, focus! If you're in the window cleaning business, then BE in the window cleaning business.

'til next time.

Best Wishes,

Steve

Steve Wright is the author of How to Start Your Own Residential Window Washing Business, and has started hundreds of individuals on the path to success in their own window washing business as evidenced by reading what some of his students have said here. Mr. Wright has also developed a revolutionary online web-based system called The Customer Factor to assist all window washing business owners in maintaining and growing a successful business. Using both of these resources provides the one-two punch needed for maximum success in the window washing business. For more information, give Mr. Wright a call at 256-546-2446 or visit either of the websites posted.

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Window Replacement Guide - Learn About Maximum Window Efficiency

Before you can appreciate just how much a window can save you on your utility bills, you must understand the actual working of an energy efficient window. This window replacement guide will attempt to help you in this understanding. The theory is fairly straightforward: windows that are designed to be energy efficient are capable of slowing the heat transfer process between the inside of your house and the outdoors. We all know that heat travels from warm to cold spaces. In this way, the window becomes an agent of energy loss. During the winter, the warmth inside the house tends to dissipate out through the window and during the warmer season, the hot air outside tries to rush into your house via the same window as well.

Windows are central to the heat transfer process because they don't provide as good insulation as other parts of your wall assembly. For example roofs, floors and walls are better insulated against heat loss. The old single pane windows or inadequately installed double pane windows, or cracks on the window or frames are all prime candidates to facilitate this process. To exacerbate the matter, even the best-sealed windows also allow some form of heat loss through the glass, as the glass is a natural conductor of heat through conduction. This windows replacement guide will explain the technologies used to lower air flow and subsequently heat transfer.

These are the glazing technique, low-U values, low-E coatings, as well as gases like argon or krypton between panes. As a result, these efficient windows will block the cold of winter away, while keeping you cool during the hot season. Additionally, this guide will also deal with how to avoid the condensations formed inside the windows. The performance indicator of an energy-efficient window is down to the construction of the window frame and a spacer material, and the object used to separate the main window glass and the individual frames of glass within the pane.

If you are serious in obtaining a LEED certification for your household, then it is imperative for you to know that correct windows choice can enhance your qualification. LEED accreditation is awarded based on window's size, solar heating gain, U-factor and a host of other considerations.

Glazing

Glazing is the word used to define the glass in a window. A double-glazed window describes two panes window; triple-glazed contains three. An "energy-glazed" window has a layer of lamination and a gas filled within the panes of glass. The reduction in solar gain goes is proportional to the numberamount[/size] of glazing. If the solar gain is overly high, carpet, furniture and floors tend to fade easily and you need more energy for cooling to offset the solar gain; still, a decent amount of solar gain is necessary to counter the cold of winter. A double-glazed can trigger a 10 percent reduction in solar gain; triple-glazing by 20 percent. This windows replacement guide urges that households with single-glazed or single-pane windows upgrade to double- or triple-glazed windows. It will make a world of difference for your utility bills.

Low-E

Low-emissivity (low-E) coating also restricts the amount of energy transfer through the window. This coating is a transparent lamination that applies itself onto the window pane directly. It can be coated on either the inside surfaces (surfaces on opposing ends) or the exterior. Low-E coatings facilitates passing through of sun light but can cut down the heat transfer process via the window glass. In addition, businesses have also made available low-E squared and low-E cubed, which are effectively the extensions of low-E coatings and denotes two or three layers of coatings of low-E respectively.

There are two variations of low-E coatings, i.e. soft and hard types. Soft-coat low-E is comparatively not as robust and it can disintegrate under prolonged exposure to moisture and air. Conversely, while hard low-E coatings are able to withstand harsher conditions, their energy efficiencies are not comparable to those of soft coatings. As per guideline provided by U.S. Department of Energy, low-E coated (both soft and hard variations) windows are typically priced around 10% - 15% more than conventional windows, which more than compensate the 30 to 50 percent enhancement in energy loss reduction. Low-E coated windows have come a long way from its early days of make-to-order status to become standard on windows.

U-Value

As pointed out earlier in this windows guide, R-value defines the efficiency of insulation of ceilings, walls, etc.; its reading is in direct relationship with the extent or effectiveness of the insulation. However, it is not practical to use R-value alone to measure windows insulation. They are different in the sense that they are subject to several external factors, such as wind, rain, sunlight, inside and outside air temperatures, just to name some of them. It is only natural that a different measurement system is applied on to windows. This measurement system is called U-value, also known as U-factor.

The U-value here is a more useful calculation of heat loss via the window, or heat transfer. (R-values may still be listed on windows on sales, but the values have no real significance as they are just readings on the center portion of the window, thus not an accurate measurement for the entire window.) When one is referring to U-value, the lower the reading, the higher the energy efficiency is. In cold weathers, U-value of.35 or lower is preferred. Windows with multi-glazing and have krypton or argon filled are also effective in reducing heat loss and generally have low U-values.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient(SHGC)

The SHGC is an indicator used to measure how well solar radiation is blocked from the sun. Lower reading of SHGC means less solar heat is transmitted across. The ENERGY STAR program includes guidelines and criteria for doors and windows for three climate zones in the U.S. Manufacturers would be in a better position to tell if the product is ENERGY STAR-certified or not. For ENERGY STAR certification criteria, all products are required to be rated, certified, and labeled for both SHGC as well as U-value according to the procedures of the NFRC (or short for National Fenestration Rating Council) or able to satisfy the ENERGY STAR qualification criteria in at least one of the climate zones.

Gavin Berman is a regular contributor to the website http://www.EnergySmartDesign.com. He regularly writes about ways to make your home more energy efficient, through innovative design.

To view the original article with images please visit the Window Replacement Guide at Energy Smart Design.

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What to Know About the Different Types of Windows For Your Home

Finding the perfect window for your home can be a daunting task when you are not familiar with the different types of windows available. Finding the perfect windows for homeowners is our mission as we take a great deal of pride in our expertise in windows. We are always ready to help with the installation and offer free estimates.

Windows are like the eyes of the home, bringing in light, creating spaciousness, providing ventilation and giving you access to a view outside.

There are lots of stylish types to choose from. Below, we'll talk about the Pros & Cons of each window type, as well as proper placement and home decor. Looking to install a window in your basement, for instance? Try a hopper window. Want a window that can open fully? A casement window may be just what you're looking for. Check out the windows below, then browse through our convenient Window Gallery to for top design photos.

There are many types of windows to choose from. Below we will discuss about the Pros & Cons of each window type, as well as proper placement and home décor. For example, if you want a window that can open fully, try a casement window. Trying to install a window in your basement? Try a hopper window. Check out the window types below and browse through our convenient window gallery to look for your perfect window type

Bay Windows

Pros - Bay windows are perfect for creating an open, peaceful feel indoors. Their multiple views allow light to stream in from different angles. Plus, the sides of the window can be opened for air circulation. Bay windows have the ability to dress up any home with uniqueness and style. Replacing a flat window with a bay can completely change the amount of light that room receives. They're primarily used for kitchens, but can also add character to family rooms and master bedrooms.

Cons - Only the sides of bay windows open and typically don't come with screens, so incoming pests could be a problem.

 

Awning Windows

Pros - Awning windows are designed to provide light and breeze. They can be opened slightly to allow ventilation. These windows are also great for maintaining privacy while allowing light to stream in. They can be positioned in a variety of places: next to other windows, arranged in columns, or placed above large patio doors to create a wall of light and fresh air.

Cons - Screens for awning windows are set on the inside, which can mean that all the dirt and dust that normally falls into the sash makes its way onto your floors instead.

Double Hung Windows

Pros - Double hung windows are chosen for their unique style, ease of access and superior ventilation capabilities. They are great for kids' rooms as the top of the window can be opened while the bottom remains closed. Double hung windows be installed practically anywhere in your home. They're perfect for kitchens, offices and bedrooms.

Cons - Double hung windows tend to leak more air than other windows. Also, only half of this window opens up, whereas different types can open completely.

Casement Windows

Pros - Casement windows open outward for light, fresh air and side breezes. They're tightly sealed for energy efficiency and great for hard-to-reach places, such as over sinks and appliances in the kitchen. Casements crank open, as opposed to sliding up and down, making them easier to maneuver.

Cons - If you're moving into an older home, check on the stability of your casement hinges and hardware. Though casements are usually tough to break into, faulty or rusty hardware increases your risk factor. Make sure to consult with a professional for replacement parts or quality new casements.

Picture Windows

Pros - Picture windows create unobstructed views of the outdoors. They're best in areas where ventilation isn't a big concern. If you want better lighting, try installing them high on the walls of dark rooms and hallways. When combined with patio doors or open-and-close windows, picture windows can bring the perfect balance of light and ventilation.

Cons - These windows are for looks only. In addition, the large expanse of glass can make them more vulnerable to breakage.

Jalousie Windows

Pros- Jalousies are made of glass slats set in metal clips that can be opened and closed in unison. Also called a louvered window, a jalousie is made like a glass shutter. This type of window is manually rotated to open or close the overlapping panels as required, and can be opened by degrees to control how much air or light passes through.

Cons - Jalousie windows are best suited for areas with year-round comfortable climates as they help cool a home, but are impossible to seal, making it difficult to keep heat and A/C air inside and extreme weather out.

Hopper Windows

Pros- These popular windows are most often installed in basements. The hopper window is basically a casement window flipped on its side. The entire pane tilts inward to open, allowing for maximum ventilation.

Cons- Hopper windows can make privacy and home decor an issue. Because they tilt into the room, blinds, shades and other window dressings are difficult to use in conjunction with hopper windows. Also, they're usually placed in basements, so there's an added security risk for any windows installed at ground level. Their tilt designs also make them a poor choice for ventilation on a rainy day; water will drip right into the room.

We hope you have a better idea of the different types of replacement windows [http://betterwindowsupply.com] and what kind of window you're looking for. The next step is to consult with a professional for quick, same-day installations.

Find a local window contractor near you [http://betterwindowsupply.com].

Megan Cassidy

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Four Misconceptions About Replacement Windows

There are many misconceptions that homeowners have about replacement windows that can keep them from choosing to replace their windows. The four misconceptions below touch on a few (but major) issues that are commonly brought up by people hesitant to replace their windows. By dispelling these misconceptions about replacement windows, homeowners will feel more comfortable making the decision to start a window replacement project.

1. U-value is the most important factor to determine energy efficient windows

U-value is defined as the measurement of the amount of heat transfer through the window. The lower the U-value, the less heat is transferred across the window. While it is a good measure for the window, the U-value is only one factor used to determine the energy performance of a window. Other measures like the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) and the visible light transmittance are also used to determine the performance of the window.

In addition, the climate you live in will also determine how important U-value is to your situation. If you live in a colder climate you will want the lowest U-value you can find. A low U-value means that the heat inside the house will stay inside. However, if you live in a warmer climate, the solar heat gain coefficient is more important because it measures how much of the sun's radiant heat is transferred across the window. The lower the SHGC the better the window is in a warmer climate.

In a colder climate you want to try and capture as much of the sun's radiant heat as you can so a better SHGC number is not as important as a good U-value rating. While U-value is important when selecting a replacement window, it is not the most important factor when determining energy efficiency.

2. You must use vinyl windows if you want replacement windows

While vinyl is the most popular material used in replacement window frames today, there are other options for replacement windows. If you live in an older home you have the option of replacing your old wood windows with new, energy efficient clad/wood windows. These windows can often times be installed inside the "pocket" of your old windows without having to tear into the house or disturb the existing trim. The windows have a clad exterior, usually vinyl or aluminum that protect the windows from the elements, and a wood interior to keep with the look of your existing windows.

Fiberglass is a newer material available for replacement windows. It has thermal properties similar to wood window (wood is the best insulator available) and it is stronger than vinyl or aluminum. Fiberglass is very durable and is hard to dent or scratch. The material is also paintable which gives you options other than the standard white and tan offered by most vinyl window manufacturers.

You will pay more to have wood or fiberglass replacement windows. Vinyl is the least expensive of the three, but you also have product limitations, and quality issues with vinyl that you do not see as much in clad/wood or fiberglass replacement windows. You should always look at all of your options for replacement windows because vinyl is not the only choice.

3. Replacing windows will require extensive renovation to your home

Many people are hesitant to undertake a window replacement project because they are afraid that it will require tearing out brick, stucco, sheet rock and more to have the windows replaced. Usually this is not the case. Most good window installers can replace a window without disturbing the existing structure. This is nice because it limits the amount of finish work required and it allows the project to be done fairly quickly.

Most window installation projects are complete within two days and do not require any additional masonry, stucco, or sheet rock work. Find a window installer that is comfortable explaining their installation process to you so that you know what to expect when they start installing windows.

4. Anyone can install a replacement window

This, unfortunately, is the biggest misconception people have about installing replacement windows: anyone can do it. While it is not rocket science, installing windows is an acquired skill, and the better you are at it, the better the installation will be. There are many contractors out there that say they can install windows, but few that will say they can do it well. It is important that you determine your window installers comfort level with installing replacement windows before you hire them to do the work.

A window will only perform well if it was installed correctly. A poorly installed window can be difficult to open and close, it can leak, it can be drafty, just to name a few. It is as important to find the right window installer as it is to find the right replacement window for your project. Take the time to find the right window installer and ask the right questions before they start the work. This will insure a well executed window replacement project and long term performance of your replacement windows.

Summary

There are a hundred other misconceptions that homeowners have about replacement windows, but these four detail some of the most common. The process for replacing windows is not that difficult, however, it pays to know the facts about the product and the process. Research for yourself before you select a replacement window, and you will be sure to make the right decisions, from energy efficiency, to product choice, to how they are installed, to, finally, who installs them for you.

Justin M. Howe
The Window Replacement Experts
http://www.window-replacement-experts.com
11765 West Ave. #127
San Antonio, TX 78216
Your San Antonio Window and Door Experts

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