The second the Thanksgiving leftovers get packed away, many of us start decorating for the holidays. We get up on ladders and string lights around all the windows, and attach little plastic flickering candles to each sill. We get a chance to get up close and personal with our windows in the winter, and we can see just what kind of shape they’re in. 

Even if you’re not a big holiday decorator, winter is a time when families look at the to do list on their house. What were those home projects you were so keen on completing this year? Perhaps you had grand plans of a summer or fall window replacement? Well, even in the dead of winter, you didn’t miss your “window”.  Home window replacement doesn’t really have a dedicated season, and there may be some hidden advantages to closing or opening the year with new windows. 

It’s almost no different from a summer installation.

Some home improvement projects can drag on and on, and you just resign yourself to living with the mess (kitchen renovation, anyone?). If you’re at all hesitant about winter home window replacement, it’s probably because you’re imagining your house wide open to the elements, with all those icy breezes swirling through. 

Here’s the thing though: you don’t have to live in an icebox while the project is in motion. Installers do the glass replacement one window at a time, minimizing the amount of heat they’re releasing. They’ll seal off whatever room they are working in, and in larger spaces, they can install a wall of plastic that helps you keep toasty. There’s a deliberateness to window replacement in the winter, and that kind of time and care is what we want when we invite people to work on our homes. 

All of the sealers and foams they use are just as effective at setting and sealing in the winter as they are in the summer. Trained window installers can even install and seal a window in temperatures as low as -4 degrees Fahrenheit! 

You’ll save piles of money on your heating bill.

Besides the obvious curb appeal factor, you’re probably already thinking about the savings that new energy efficient windows bring. Ever since the electricity companies started sending out those graphs and year-end statements about home energy consumption, a whole swath of us have gotten a little competitive about our usage. We all know that energy consumption can take a huge slam in the dead of winter. “Throw a sweater on!” only gets us so far, and replacing your windows with more efficient models can save you big on those bills. 

Your bill will take a little ding on the days you have an installation, there’s no way around that, but the long-term impact on your energy bill goes on and on. All those little leaks and cracks in your old windows will be sealed up tight, and you can actually get more of the warmth you’re paying the electricity company for. There’s nothing better than opening that heating bill right after you’ve gotten your replacement windows in. The little line on the graph goes down, and stays down. 

You’ll get your new windows faster, and probably at a discount.

Winter is the slow season for many window replacement companies, which can work to your advantage. Some window replacement companies will run end of the year specials, and you’ll end up paying less for the work. Also (and this is a big one), you can get scheduled more easily. It can be frustrating to finally decide to take the plunge on a home improvement project, and then wait forever to get the work scheduled. During the summer months, it can be tough just to get window companies to give you an estimate. 

Things are different in the winter. Once you decide to get the project done, you can get it done fast. At Window Nation, we can often get you energy efficient windows just days after you call!

So yes, there is some kind of rule of thumb about only eating oysters in months that have the letter r, and you should always stock up on candy bars the day after Halloween, but there’s no such rule about window installation. Winter home window installation is a good move — it’s minimally disruptive, easy to schedule, and will start saving you money on your energy bills right away. 

You’ve had your initial consultation with an exterior design consultant, and you decided to your purchase replacement windows from Window Nation. Welcome to the family! We’re honored you chose us to help with your home improvement project. We don’t take your decision to work with us lightly, and we strive to provide each of our customers the best possible experience with our company. Home improvement projects are a big undertaking, and we understand your upcoming installation might seem daunting. To make the process easier, our team of window replacement experts explain the next steps you’ll need to take after you purchase your replacement windows, doors, and siding.

Measurements

Once your windows have been purchased, the next step is for a measure technician to come to your home and measure each opening. We measure each window three times to guarantee accuracy. Each of our windows is measured down to the millimeter to guarantee a tight seal. Once your windows have been measured, we’ll send the measurements to our ordering team to begin production.

Window Production

Once your windows have been ordered, our team will begin manufacturing your order. Each of our windows is custom-made, so production might take longer depending on the type of window and the number of windows ordered. Once your windows have been built, our team will contact you to schedule your installation day. You’ll receive a courtesy phone call a day or two before your installation to ensure everything is running on-schedule.

Installation

Pre-Installation

Once your installation date is set, we ask that you prepare the area around your windows to create a clear workspace for our installers. Move all furniture from the area around your windows and be sure to remove all valuables and knickknacks. We also ask that you remove all blinds, drapes, and window coverings from your windows and disable any alarm systems.

Installation Process

Our installers have installed over one million windows in their careers. Each of our installers is specially trained in window installation, guaranteeing your windows will be installed correctly the first time. Your installation team will be led by an installation team leader who has over 15 years of experience installing windows. Our installers will remove each window from its frame and then install the replacement one-at-a-time to ensure your installation is done correctly. We use the highest-quality materials to keep your windows protected for years to come.

We pride ourselves on our attention-to-detail, and we’ll treat your home like we would our own. Our team will use drop-cloths and protective mats to keep your home clean. Any leftover debris will be cleaned once your installation is finished. Your window frames and sashes will also be cleaned once installed. After your windows have been installed, your crew leader will conduct a walk-thru of your home for final approval. We use a twenty-point checklist to ensure your windows are installed to the highest standards of excellence.

Multi-Product Installation

We’re proud to offer replacement vinyl siding and doors to meet all your home improvement needs. If you’re having multiple products installed, our installers will work in a specific order to ensure your project is done correctly. If you’re having a roof installed, this will be done first, followed by windows and doors. Siding is installed last to ensure there is no issues with your windows. In some instances, multi-product installation might require a multi-day installation depending on the size of your project.

Post-Installation

Once your installation is finished, it’s time to sit back and enjoy your windows! We ask that you do not operate your windows for 72 hours post-installation to ensure the caulk adheres properly. Be sure to activate your warranty online to keep your windows protected should any issues arise. If you have any additional questions, please contact our customer service team.

Thank you again for choosing Window Nation! We’re grateful you trusted us with your most valuable asset: your home.

WINDOW NATION EXPANDS TO GREATER CHICAGO AREA DUE TO INCREASE OF RESIDENTS INVESTING IN THEIR HOMES

This marks the company’s largest community to-date and its 13^th market opening.

CHICAGO (January 4, 2021) – Chicago… is our kind of town indeed! Window Nation is getting ready to call the Windy City home, with the opening of its latest showroom at 1263 Lakeview Drive, Romeoville, adding new jobs to the market. Window Nation, which is the 5^th largest replacement contractor in the U.S. with deep Midwest roots, also brings expert home solutions to the area, including servicing homeowners between Illinois and Indiana. This marks its largest service area in company history.  

Although Window Nation is new to this particular market, it is not new to the industry, with 2021 marking its 15th year in business and installing over 1 million windows.

Window Nation selected the Chicago region based on several factors, including the city’s growing housing market. Research shows Chicago-area residents continue to invest in their homes; as such, home values throughout the city have increased by 5.6 percent over the last year and are projected to rise 8.1 percent in 2021, according to Zillow. The Real Deal real estate publication also reports the greater Chicago area experienced the largest surge in home sales this past August since September 2013. Additionally, Chicago’s diverse demographics and psychographics align with those in other cities where Window Nation continues to cultivate successful customer bases.  

“We’ve been visiting Chicago for as long as I can remember and have the best memories of our time there, from the culture, people, architecture and of course, sports history,” said Aaron Magden, president of Window Nation who co-founded the company with his brother Harley. “It’s now coming full circle as we grow our business here and help a whole new generation of customers create the home of their dreams. We feel overwhelmingly grateful for our loyal customers and employees who continue to support us after all of these years, especially amid a year full of such tremendous challenges, loss and fear. That has not and will never be lost on us.”

The Chicago showroom will sell replacement windows to fit every style, as well as budget, and will have experts on hand to walk customers through the home renovation process, including vinyl options, colors, sizes, styles and more. Customers are encouraged to schedule an appointment prior to visiting the showroom. Window Nation is following strict CDC guidelines including social distancing, enhanced cleaning practices, protective equipment and screenings for every appointment.

In an effort to ensure the safety of all customers, employees and their families amid COVID-19, the company is also offering residents the option to receive a virtual consultation and estimate via video conferencing. Homeowners can upload photos to receive precise measurements, and installs are completed outside with minimal disruption. Depending on a customer’s individual preferences, needs and circumstances, Window Nation experts are still available to provide in- home consultations and education, while strictly adhering to CDC safety and sanitation guidelines.

The Window Nation team currently services 12 other locations throughout the U.S. and brings decades of home remodeling experience to residents. Co-founders and brothers Harley and Aaron Magden grew up in the business as third-generation window replacement experts before starting the company in 2006. Additionally, Chicago’s Sales Manager has over 25 years of experience providing home improvement solutions to customers throughout the local area.

In 2020, Window Nation was re-named the 5th largest replacement contractor in the U.S. by Remodeling Magazine and the second largest non-franchise window retailer, marking the fourth year in a row Window Nation was recognized as being in the top five. The magazine looks at nearly 100,000 home remodeling companies in the country and makes its decision based on revenue, growth, surveys, customer input and more. Qualified Remodeler Magazine ranked Window Nation as the seventh largest remodeling firm in the U.S. for its total gross sales, remodeling gross sales and the number of remodeling jobs completed annually. The company also earned a spot-on last year’s Inc. 5000 list, being honored as one of the fastest growing private companies in the U.S. Other industry powerhouses, including Microsoft, Intuit, Oracle and Patagonia have also been recognized.  

Beyond providing exceptional home expertise and customer service, the company plans to have an active presence in the local community to support and foster relationships with new customers, especially throughout these unprecedented times.

About Window Nation:

Window Nation was started in 2006 by two brothers who literally grew up in the window business, learning about home improvement, customer care and the difference a quality window can make. The company provides an unsurpassed selection of premium windows, doors and siding installed by highly skilled, licensed professionals. The company has replaced over 1 million windows in Boston, St. Louis, Kansas City, Maryland, Washington, D.C., northern Virginia, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Indianapolis, Charlotte, Columbus and northeast Ohio. Learn more here.

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Let’s face it: we all need a fresh start after 2020. This year was challenging for us all, and as you spent more time in your home, you may have adopted some habits you don’t want to take into the new year. You might be ordering out instead of cooking at home, or you might be spending more time watching Netflix than reading a book. Your home might also be feeling some the effects of 2020: you might notice higher energy bills than normal, or your home might feel extra cluttered from all the online shopping you did throughout the year. Luckily, there’s no better time than the beginning of a new year to replace old habits with new ones. While we can’t help you curb your Netflix addiction, the home improvement experts at Window Nation shared their best New Year’s resolutions you can make for your home.

Create a Designated Work from Home Space

As offices around the country shut down due to the pandemic, most of us started working from home. Dining rooms and bedrooms were transformed into offices, with beds and kitchen tables being turned into desks and workspaces. For many companies, remote work doesn’t seem to be ending any time soon, and it’s important to create a distinction between your personal space and your workspace. We know it’s tempting but try to avoid working out of your sleeping areas, especially your bed. We recommend purchasing a desk to create a designated workspace. If a desk isn’t an option, consider sitting at the dining room table and purchasing storage bins or a tote bag to store your belongings. Your home will feel more organized, and you’ll appreciate having the separation between your work life and your home life.

Reduce Your Energy Consumption

The more time you spend at home, the higher your energy bills. This New Year, take steps to reduce your energy consumption by making changes to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Start small by simply turning off the lights or unplugging electronics when not in use. You can also make a bigger impact by replacing your old, outdated windows with energy efficient vinyl windows from Window Nation. Our windows are built with premium energy efficiency features to keep your energy bills low no matter the season. We offer both double and triple pane windows, so you can choose between windows with the best value or the best energy efficiency. You might also consider upgrading your doors or siding for an additional energy efficiency boost.

Purge Your Space

We were all guilty of going on a few online shopping sprees while we were in quarantine. However, your home might be feeling a little more cluttered than usual thanks to all the new goodies you purchased. Take advantage of the time you have at home to purge your space of any unnecessary clothes, books, or home accessories you no longer need. Our home improvement experts recommend tossing out anything you haven’t used in the past year. If you don’t want to throw all your items out, consider donating them to local area shelters to give back while also de-cluttering. No matter what you choose to do with your things, be sure to clean just one room at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed by the process.

Create a Cleaning Schedule

Cleaning your house might not be the most enjoyable task, but it needs to be done. Consider creating a cleaning schedule for your home so you know what needs to be cleaned and when. For example, your bedroom might only need to be cleaned once a month, while your bathrooms and kitchen need to be cleaned each week. You can create a loose schedule for all the rooms in your home, or you can get down to the nitty gritty of when even the smallest of chores need to be done, like doing your laundry or doing the dishes. Creating an organized system will help cleaning your home feel less daunting, while also helping you keep on top of the chores in your home.

Perform Routine Maintenance on Your Windows

As we’ve spent more time than ever in our homes, you might have noticed some wear-and-tear on your home that you just haven’t gotten around to fixing. 2021 is the year to perform all the maintenance tasks you’ve been putting off. Be sure to seal any drafts and leaks, particularly around your windows and doors. Weatherstripping and caulk can often fix the issues; however, if the issue still isn’t fixed, it might be time to upgrade your windows and doors. You should also look out for condensation between the panes of glass, as this is a sign of seal failure, a major issue for your windows. If you notice any glaring problems with your windows, contact our team at Window Nation to schedule your consultation with an exterior design consultant to discuss your options.

Our home was more important than ever in 2020. As we spent more time than ever inside, you might be considering a home improvement project to give your home a much-needed makeover. 2021 is the perfect time to make the upgrades you’ve been putting off. Start off small by adding simple touches, such as adding new accent furniture or replacing existing lighting fixtures. If you’re looking to make major changes, consider upgrading your windows, doors, and siding with modern replacements from Window Nation. Our home improvement experts shared their best home improvement tips for 2021 and beyond:

Update Your Paint

After spending more time than ever in your home in 2020, you might be getting tired of looking at the same old paint colors day after day. Give your home a refresh by updating the paint throughout your home. Calming blues and inviting neutrals are among the most popular choices for 2021 according to Better Homes and Gardens Magazine. Many homeowners are opting for shades of grey and nude to create a calming oasis.

Bring in More Light

If your rooms feel dark and dingy, consider purchasing new lighting fixtures to bring in additional light. Look for the Energy Star seal on the products you purchase for maximum energy efficiency. For a bigger change, replace your existing windows with casement windows from Window Nation. Because they open left-to-right instead of up-and-down, these windows offer an unobstructed view, perfect if you’re looking to replace the windows facing your backyard or garden.

Invest in Wallpaper

Today’s stick-and-peel wallpaper isn’t your grandmother’s wallpaper. This removable wallpaper is affordable and easy-to-use, ideal for those renting their home or just simply looking for a temporary upgrade. You can choose from a variety of patterns, from trendy florals to geometric shapes to find the perfect fit for your home. Many homeowners are opting to put wallpaper in unique locations, like bathrooms, hallways, and even inside closets. You can even purchase wallpaper that looks like tile to upgrade your floors! The possibilities are endless.

Upgrade Your Space

If you’re looking to make big upgrades to your home in 2021, consider upgrading your windows, doors, and siding with modern replacements from Window Nation. Our replacement windows are custom-made in a variety of styles and colors to give your home the upgrade it needs. For a total home makeover, consider replacing your outdated siding and doors with our vinyl siding and entry doors. Each product is built with style and durability in mind, so you won’t have to compromise your home’s aesthetic for long-lasting products. Whether you’re simply replacing a few windows or giving your home a total makeover, you can feel comfortable knowing you’re getting top-of-the-line products built for your home.

Ready to Make Home Upgrades in 2021?

When you’re ready to start your window replacement project, schedule an estimate with one of our exterior design consultants. Our team will discuss your project with you and go over your options so you can find the best windows, doors, and siding for your home. You’ll then receive a quote good for up to six months. Schedule your in-home estimate today at WindowNation.com.