Energy-Efficient Windows: Are They Worth It?

Cozy living room with large fiberglass windows.

Cozy living room with large fiberglass windows.

Did you know you can save an average of 12% on your utility bills by opting for energy-efficient windows?

That can mean a savings of between $200 and $600 yearly, depending on the windows you choose and your local climate. Because energy-efficient windows are made with materials that reduce heat exchange and air leaks, you don’t need as much energy to heat or cool your home, even during Arizona’s hottest days. They also help protect your health and the environment.

In our book, installing new energy-efficient windows in your home is a terrific option for cutting costs and improving indoor comfort levels. Open Enclose offers top-quality window installation, replacement, and repair services that are a cost-effective way to keep your home comfortably cool or warm all year long.

 

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows in Arizona Homes

Installing ENERGY STAR® windows in your home provides numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved indoor comfort and temperature regulation to enhance comfort.
  • Increased home value and resale appeal.
  • Environmental plusses like reducing your home’s carbon footprint and contributing to sustainability efforts.
  • Potential tax credits and rebates that offset the initial investment.

If you want to be a part of a clean energy future while saving money at the same time, upgrading to energy-efficient windows is a great place to start.

Energy-Efficient Window Installation Process

Professional window installation performed by Open Enclosure’s skilled team ensures the job’s done correctly, safely, and to a standard that supports the performance and durability of the windows, all while adhering to necessary legal and warranty requirements.

Our step-by-step installation process includes:

  • Walking you through the entire project.
  • Adhering to safety and cleanliness measures to keep your home as clean as possible.
  • Removing windows either section by section or room by room.
  • Installing new windows in their place to avoid leaving the house wide open.
  • Finishing touches like caulk, weather sealing, and removing the glass’s protective film.

You can help speed the installation process by trimming all shrubs and bushes around existing windows, moving furniture away from windows, and removing all blinds, curtains, drapes, and other window treatments.

Energy-Efficient Window Repair Process

Common window issues requiring repair include:

  • Drafts
  • Leaks
  • Condensation
  • Cracked panes
  • Malfunctioning hardware

Timely repair of these and other problems is critical for maintaining energy efficiency, preventing further damage, and saving money. The window repair process typically involves assessing damage, selecting appropriate materials, and making repairs to restore function and insulation properties.

Neglecting issues with windows or other energy-efficient components can lead to a gradual decline in performance, ultimately costing you more in the long run through higher utility bills and potential structural damage.

Proactive maintenance and prompt repairs are essential for maximizing the benefits of any energy-efficient home improvement.

Energy-Efficient Window Replacement Process

Signs your windows need replacement include:

  • Persistent drafts
  • Condensation between panes
  • Difficulty operating
  • Visible decay

Replacing inefficient windows includes removing the old windows, preparing the frame, installing new windows, and ensuring airtight sealing.

Choose Open Enclose for Energy-Efficient Windows

Installing energy-efficient windows lowers utility costs, improves home comfort, reduces noise pollution, and enhances UV protection, making your home more sustainable and comfortable throughout the year.

Are you ready to upgrade to new, energy-efficient windows for your Arizona home? Open Enclose has been providing homeowners in the Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, and Tanque Verde areas with top-rated ENERGY STAR® windows that significantly reduce energy consumption.

Contact us online today or call (520)-485-4546 to request a free estimate or learn more, including the warranties and guarantees we offer and our competitive pricing and financing options.

How To Prepare for the Heat: Arizona Window & Door Checklist

backyard of a an Arizona home with a pool & a wall of windows

backyard of a an Arizona home with a pool & a wall of windows

Summers in Arizona are notorious for their intense heat. For many homeowners, this means that their cooling system works hard to keep their home at the perfect temperature. However, many don’t realize that failing to prepare their doors and windows for summer can make this task even harder.

In this article, the experts at Open Enclose provide tips and tricks for preparing your property for the Arizona summer to ensure that your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient on even the hottest day of the year.

Preparing Your Home: A Guide

There are many ways that homeowners can prepare for Arizona’s hottest season, including:

  • Clean glass windows & doors
  • Inspect caulking or sealant & repair any that is cracking, peeling, or bubbling
  • Ensure the holes at the bottom of your windows are open for drainage
  • Trim back any landscape that touches windows or doors
  • Install shades or blinds that block the heat
  • Beware that wood windows are likely to expand in the heat

Signs Your Doors or Windows Need Repair

Your doors and windows are your home’s primary defense against the sun and heat. If they need care, it’s best to do so before the summer season, as damage can impact your home’s efficiency, security, and comfort. Homeowners should be aware of the signs that they need professional repairs:

Cracked Glass

If your windows or doors have cracked glass, it’s essential to get this repaired before the summer heat. Broken glass can also cause air to seep into and out of your home, reducing the impact of your HVAC.

Leaks

The frames of your windows and doors should be airtight. If you have any leaks, have a professional use weatherstripping, caul, or expanding foam to prevent air infiltration.

Difficult Operation

Difficulty opening or closing your doors or windows means that something is misaligned or damaged. This will prevent you from getting fresh air when the temperatures cool off and may leave you with a window that won’t close in the blazing heat.

Warping

Heat and humidity can cause your wooden door and window frames to expand and warp. We recommend more rot-resistant materials like vinyl or aluminum if you require replacements.

Deteriorated Seals

When the weatherstripping or seals on your doors and windows deteriorate, your insulation is reduced, and you can experience drafts. Maintaining these seals is vital to ensure optimal energy efficiency for your home.

Choose Open Enclose for Window & Door Services

For superior window and door services in Arizona, trust Open Enclose. We’re your full-service residential experts for window and door repair and replacement and can work with you to ensure your home is protected against the summer heat. We offer a lifetime warranty on our new products, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee always backs our work.

Call (520) 485-4546 today for a free, no-obligation estimate for window and door services to prepare for summer or to schedule service with our professionals!

 

Knowing When It’s Time To Buy New Windows: Replacement Signs

custom window installation in Tucson, AZ

custom window installation in Tucson, AZ

Your windows are more than just part of your home’s overall aesthetics. They also play an important functional role, providing fresh air and protecting you from outside elements. Your overall comfort can suffer when your windows are no longer in good condition. That’s why knowing when to buy new windows and schedule a replacement is essential. Below, we discuss the signs that it may be time for new windows for your Tucson home and how often you should buy new windows.

When you’re ready to schedule window replacement services, call Open Enclose at (520) 485-4546!

Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Windows

It can sometimes be challenging to determine when your windows need replacing. While issues like physical damage may be more pronounced, others may be less noticeable while still dramatically impacting your overall comfort and safety.

Signs that you may need replacements include:

  • Visible damage, like foggy class or cracks
  • Issues with drafts or leaks
  • A sudden increase in electrical bills
  • Condensation on the inside of the window
  • Faded carpet or furniture around your window
  • Minimal noise dampening
  • Difficulty opening and closing
  • Increase in allergy symptoms
  • Outdated style or unattractive aesthetics
  • Desire to increase your home value

 

How Often Should I Replace My Windows?

The average life span for a window is between 15 and 30 years. However, this doesn’t mean you must wait this long to get replacements. Generally, it’s best to upgrade your home’s windows once they impact your ability to keep it comfortable due to drafts or negative impacts on HVAC efficiency. In addition, many older homes have single-pane windows, which are no longer the most energy-efficient option.

With window replacement service from Open Enclose, you’ll get high-quality windows and professional installation to ensure that you end up with windows that last. We carry the best brands on the market that offer innovative designs that will meet your needs and provide you with the curb appeal you desire. We offer a wide range of window styles made from various materials and can help you select the best option for your home. Plus, with our 100% satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty on all new windows we install, we know you’ll love your results.

Choose Open Enclose for Window Replacement

When you need window replacement in Tucson, trust the team at Open Enclose. Our locally owned and operated company offers high-quality products and unmatched customer experience that will exceed your expectations.

With our haggle-free, upfront pricing, there’s never a surprise when it comes time to pay the bill, and with free, no-obligation estimates, there’s never been a better time to discuss your window replacement options with our experts!

Call (520) 485-4546 today to book window replacement services in Tucson, AZ!

5 Common Door Problems: Solved

open front glass door into Red Rock house

open front glass door into Red Rock house

We all know how important the doors to our home are. They provide safety and help create our aesthetic. But beyond that, we probably don’t think about our doors very often — until something isn’t working correctly.

At Open Enclose, we know how irritating door issues can be. From squeaky hinges to doors that won’t open, here are five of the most common door problems and what homeowners can do about them.

For expert door services, count on Open Enclose — call (520) 485-4546 to schedule your door service today.

Door Problems & Their Solutions

Every door in your home has its own character; sometimes, they develop quirks or challenges. Here are some of the most common door problems and what homeowners can do about them.

Why Is My Door Sticking?

If you have a sticking door, it’s likely the humidity. If you’re trying to open or close your door, but it’s stubbornly resisting like it’s grown roots, the main culprit is usually the humidity, especially in our climate.

Humidity causes the wood in your door to expand, making it stick in the frame more tightly. But sometimes, it’s your house, subtly shifting on its foundation and throwing the door frame out of alignment.

To solve the problem, zero in on the part of the sticking door and sand it down or adjust the hinges. The result? Your door swings open and shut smoothly, with no more drama.

Why Won’t My Door Close All the Way?

If your door won’t close all the way, the problem often lies with the hinges. Over time, hinges can loosen due to regular use and the natural settling of the house, causing the door to hang incorrectly. This misalignment prevents the door from closing smoothly.

Tightening those hinges is a simple but effective solution to fix the problem. Sometimes, it may require more than just tightening, realigning, or even replacing the hinges can be necessary. Remember, ensuring your door closes appropriately is not just about convenience; it’s also a matter of security and energy efficiency for your home.

 

Why Won’t the Door Stay Latched?

Have a door that won’t stay latched? It’s likely the source of the problem is a misaligned strike plate or a worn latch mechanism. You can find the root cause of the issue with a thorough inspection. Watch to see if the latch fully slides into the strike plate. If it does, then check the latch mechanism.

Once you determine the source of the problem, you can make the necessary adjustments — either realigning the strike plate or replacing the latch.

Why Is My Door Warped?

Doors warp from exposure to harsh sun and varying temperatures. That means our weather in Tucson can take a toll, leaving your door bent out of shape and struggling to perform its function.

When a door becomes warped, it’s often time to replace it so you can have the safety you need. At Open Enclose, we offer a variety of beautiful, sturdy doors that can replace your warped ones, transforming your home’s style and functionality.

Why Is My Door Squeaking?

Dry hinges usually cause a squeaking door. Squeaking doors can quickly become massive irritations. Thankfully, a little lubrication on the hinges is often all it takes to silence the squeak. Make sure to use the correct type of oil or lubricant to keep your door operating quietly.

If the squeak persists, the hinges must be cleaned or replaced. Our team has the know-how to diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your doors are as silent as a whisper.

Why Choose Open Enclose?

At Open Enclose, we recognize that your doors are more than just entryways. Your doors are vital components of your home’s functionality and security. With our expertise in handling various door issues, we are dedicated to ensuring that every door in your Tucson home operates smoothly and efficiently.

Whether it’s a minor annoyance like a squeak or a more significant concern like a warped door, our team is equipped to provide effective solutions. We’re committed to resolving your issues promptly and effectively, enhancing the comfort and safety of your living spaces. Trust Open Enclose for all your door repair needs — where quality service meets customer satisfaction.

Schedule your door service with Open Enclose by calling (520) 485-4546 today.

A Guide to French Doors

White, interior French doors


If you’re looking to let more natural light into your home from your entryway or patio, or if you want the space between two adjoining interior rooms to feel more open, French doors might be the right door installation choice for you.

French doors are made up of a pair of doors paneled with glass. Depending on the design you choose, they can consist of a single pane or multiple panes. French doors often swing open to patios or balconies, or they can be used to create a grand entrance or exit between interior rooms.

What Are the Benefits of Installing French Doors?

Because of the unique way they let in natural light, French doors can add an open feeling to enclosed spaces that other door types can’t. The benefits of French door installation include:

  • Beautiful views of the outdoors from inside
  • More sunshine and warmth, especially in winter
  • Indoor and outdoor spaces bridged effortlessly
  • Interior adjoining rooms expanded when opened (and separated when closed)

Are French Doors Energy-Efficient?

Many homeowners worry that installing French doors will allow cool air to escape their home during the summer and warm air to escape in the winter, increasing utility bills while their HVAC systems run constantly. However, this is no longer an issue. French door frames are constructed to make French doors energy-efficient. There are also advanced glazing options available that allow sunlight in while stabilizing the temperature indoors.

Are French Doors Less Secure or Durable?

Depending on whether you’re installing exterior or interior French doors, they are fortified to protect you in different ways.

Exterior French doors are equipped with weather-proofing elements, and you can adjust opaqueness to meet your needs. Many exterior French doors require a three-point locking system and have double panes for additional security.

Interior French doors can also be paned in opaque glass for privacy, and specialists can install locks that meet your specific needs.

Start Your Custom French Door Project With Open Enclose

For a streamlined French door replacement experience that will bring your unique home aesthetic to life, contact Open Enclose in Tucson, AZ. We handle every step in the French door installation process in-house so that you won’t have to juggle multiple sub-contractors. When you work with us, you receive a lifetime warranty on our products, and we guarantee your 100% satisfaction. If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration, we showcase our past work on our gallery page.

Request a free, no-obligation estimate for a French door installation in Tucson. Call us at (520) 485-4546 or contact us online.

Window Replacement Considerations for Older Homes

historic home in phoenix, Arizona
historic home in phoenix, Arizona

Are you the proud owner of a historic home? You probably love all the unique features and design elements you could never find in a modern home. Of course, living in an older house means some things could be worn out, including your windows.

Glazing and window frame technology has improved by leaps and bounds in recent decades. So even if your old windows are in relatively good shape, they probably contribute to uncomfortable drafts and high energy bills. Here are some factors to consider when replacing the windows in your older home.

Why You Should Replace Your Old Windows

Your home has lasted this long without getting new windows, so why should you replace them now? Consider the many ways you can benefit from replacing your old windows:

  • Enhance security and safety with advanced locking mechanisms and impact-resistant glass
  • Reduce drafts to eliminate hot and cold spots and improve home comfort
  • Increase energy efficiency and lower your utility bills
  • Insulate against noises outside for a more peaceful interior
  • Restore functionality to broken or painted-shut windows
  • Boost home value in case you decide to move someday

How To Choose New Windows That Preserve the Style of Your Older Home

Because older homes have unique architectural elements, your windows probably don’t match today’s standard sizes. This means if you order pre-made versions, you’ll probably have to widen or reduce the windows openings to make them fit. This could affect your home’s historical appeal and add an unnecessary construction expense.

Fortunately, you can avoid these problems with custom windows for older homes. These come in any size, operating style, and material you want to fit your needs exactly. Keep in mind that most older homes have wood windows, so you should look into installing this material over more modern alternatives such as fiberglass and vinyl.

When To Repair or Retrofit Your Old Windows

Older homes often have windows built with high-quality wood frames. This may be why yours have lasted this long. As a result, it might be possible to repair or retrofit your windows instead of replacing them. Here are your options:

  • Repair damaged locking mechanisms and moving parts.
  • Fix sections of rotten wood window frames using epoxy.
  • Install new glass in the existing window frame.
  • Install storm windows as an extra barrier between the interior and exterior.

Should You DIY Your Window Installation?

Once you decide to replace your windows, you have two options — order the windows direct from the manufacturer and install them yourself, or hire a window installation company to install them for you. Don’t make this decision lightly. Poor window installation can negate some of your investment’s performance and aesthetic benefits.

In general, you should only attempt a DIY window installation if you have advanced carpentry skills and access to the proper tools for the job. You also need a second knowledgeable person to help you, and the job is most feasible if your windows are all on ground level. If any of these factors don’t apply to your situation, you may prefer the peace of mind that comes with professional window installation.

Maintain Your Older Home’s Appeal With Replacement Windows in Tucson, AZ

As you can see, you have many choices for revitalizing the windows in your older home. If you decide to replace your windows, Open Enclose can help you preserve your home’s historic appeal and accuracy. We partner with numerous trusted window brands to make sure you find the exact product you’re looking for in your price range.

To learn more about your window replacement options for older homes, please contact Open Enclose in Tucson by calling us at (520) 485-4546.

Are Fiberglass Windows Better Than Vinyl?

Cozy living room with large fiberglass windows.

Replacing your windows can both increase resale value and noticeably improve the aesthetic of your home’s exterior and interior style. With all the options currently available, selecting new windows may seem like a daunting task, but both vinyl and fiberglass windows are well-liked choices for homeowners and builders.

If you need help selecting new windows for your home, contact the experts at Open Enclose by calling 520-485-4546 today.

Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Windows: Pros and Cons

Pricing

Compared to wood windows, both vinyl and fiberglass are an economical choice, but vinyl windows are less expensive than fiberglass. If cost is your main concern, you should look at available vinyl window styles.

Life Span and Durability

You can expect a good quality vinyl window to last up to 30 years, while fiberglass windows’ life span can stretch past 50 years. The reason for the difference is that fiberglass windows are not subject to sun damage. Vinyl starts to melt at temperatures over 165 degrees, which can cause warping and distortion of the window frame on hot days.

Energy Efficiency

Fiberglass windows are better insulators than vinyl windows. The glass fibers in a fiberglass window frame ensure that the frames won’t expand, contract, or conduct heat or cold.

Noise Insulation

Fiberglass windows are also better sound insulators than vinyl windows. The glass fibers that enable fiberglass windows to insulate against heat and cold also block outside noise from entering your home.

Maintenance Requirements

Fiberglass and vinyl windows are both low-maintenance options and require very little care over time. Vinyl windows are made with color built into the material. As a result, they won’t fade, peel, or need to be repainted. Fiberglass windows are subject to all three of those issues: Their color will eventually fade, peel, and need to be repainted. Vinyl windows tend to warp due to sunlight and will require occasional touch-ups with caulk to prevent air leaks.

Which Style Looks Best for My Home?

Both vinyl and fiberglass offer a variety of window styles and brands to choose from when replacing your home’s windows. Other style considerations include:

Vinyl

  • Vinyl windows have a visible join line at their corners, and fiberglass ones do not.
  • Versatility is a big plus when choosing vinyl windows. Vinyl can be molded into almost any form, which allows for unique window shapes.
  • Due to this flexibility, vinyl windows are a great choice for virtually all home styles and aesthetics.

Fiberglass

  • Fiberglass frames are able to mimic the appearance of wood frames.
  • A wider variety of style and color options are available for fiberglass windows, due to the fact that they can be painted.
  • Fiberglass is stronger than vinyl, which means fiberglass windows can have a thinner frame for a low-profile, modern look.
  • Like vinyl windows, fiberglass offers myriad color options and frame styles to suit any home’s architectural style.

Choose Open Enclose for All Your Window Replacement Needs

Open Enclose is a locally owned and operated window and door contractor in Tucson, AZ. We offer haggle-free, upfront pricing and use only the best-quality products. Every aspect of our window installation process is handled in house, we don’t subcontract any work, and our expert window technicians are able to do any needed touch-up painting or stucco work. We’re so confident in the quality of our workmanship that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime warranty on all products that we install.

You’ll love your new windows, guaranteed! Contact us at 520-485-4546 to schedule a window replacement estimate.

Most Popular Entry Doors in 2020

Wooden entry way door

Green Leafed Potted Plants in Front of New Entry Door in Tucson, AZ

Installing a new entry door is one of the most noticeable home improvements you can make. It also offers a great return on investment, making it a wise project if you’re planning to move soon. With so many materials, colors, finishes, and features to choose from, you may have a hard time narrowing down your choices. Luckily, you can achieve the perfect balance of style, functionality, and security with these popular entry doors of 2020.

Explore this year’s entry door trends here. Then, contact Open Enclose at (520) 485-4546 to ask about our entry door replacement services in Tucson, AZ.

Fun, Eye-Catching Colors

Statement doors are nothing new, but they’re bound to stick around in 2020. Bright red, aquamarine, or sunshine yellow will set the tone as guests approach your home. They know that once they enter, they’re bound to have a good time!

Natural Wood Stain

The timeless beauty of a solid wood door can’t be denied. If your home’s interior has other natural wood elements, consider extending the look to your front door by staining rather than painting it. You can create a look that ranges from country charm to Tuscan elegance to mid-century modern—it all depends on the door’s design, wood species, and stain color.

Wood Alternatives

Wood is a traditional, time-tested material, but affordable, low-maintenance fiberglass and steel entry doors are also trending in 2020. Fiberglass doors can be painted or even stained to resemble solid wood for the aesthetic you want without the cost or upkeep. Then, steel offers exceptional security and energy efficiency. All of these options are worth considering.

Glass Elements

This 2020 entry door trend provides an excellent source of natural light in your home. You might opt for a full-glass entry door or prefer small glass panels for visual interest. When shopping for glass doors, make sure you choose a model with advanced features for efficiency and security, including double glazing, low-E coatings, and gas infill. You can also explore privacy glass options to blur the view while still allowing light to enter.

Fresh Hardware

Changing the look and functionality of your entry door doesn’t necessarily mean replacing it. If the door is in good condition, simply swapping out the hardware can make a big difference. Hardware finishes that are trending in 2020 include brushed steel and champagne bronze.

Increased Security

While this isn’t necessarily an aesthetic trend, it’s definitely on many homeowners’ radars in 2020. People are spending more on home security than ever before. This doesn’t just mean alarms and surveillance cameras, but more secure entry doors as well. Features such as six-pin locks, strike-resistant deadbolt plates, and theft-proof hinges are designed to increase your peace of mind.

Smart Features

Entry doors are no strangers to technology. Smart homes have taken the world by storm, and one of the most popular trends is the ability to lock and unlock the front door from anywhere using a smartphone. Keypad entry is also handy for granting access to delivery people and maintenance crews when you’re not at home. These features are sure to go great with a video camera doorbell, another trending home security feature.

Replace Your Entry Door in Tucson, AZ

No matter which 2020 entry door trends interest you the most, Open Enclose is here to help you implement them. Our haggle-free, upfront pricing lets you start your project with ease. Choose entry doors from some of today’s top brands, including Andersen, Ironwood, and many others. We have years of experience as a locally owned and operated door installer, and we promise to meet your expectations with a 100% satisfaction guarantee!

Contact us today at (520) 485-4546 to begin your entry door replacement project.

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