Mending Your Window Screens

With the warmer weather comes open windows at night and bugs right along with it. Now's the time to make sure your window screens are in working order with no tears allowing in pests.

    April 22, 2008 | Comments ()

Find a Spot For a Window Seat

Window seats are a great addition to any room that provide not just extra seating, but more storage and decorative space. If a window seat is something you've always wanted but never thought you had the room for, don't give up until you’ve read this article from DoItYourself.com.

    April 1, 2008 | Comments ()

Window Decals for Privacy and Pretty

Earlier this month Real Simple launched a bunch o' blogs including Home and Organizing which counts Erin Doland of Unclutterer and Holly Becker of Decor8 as contributors. They should both bring a unique and complimentary voice to this blog and we welcome another shelter blog to the mix.

Today Holly extols the virtues of window decals which add an interesting design element to your home as well as provide privacy. The semi-permanent nature of these decals also allows for complete customization and an opportunity to change the decals as you choose.

    March 17, 2008 | Comments (4)

Restoring Wood Frame Windows

Over at HouseinProgress they've documented the window restoration of their 1914 Bungalow and pulled together a great matrix for determining if you should restore or replace your wood windows. Their post may have inspired this article from the Chicago Tribune that similarly advocates the path to wood window restoration for economic, environmental, and quality reasons.

For more details on restoring your wood windows, check out this article from OldHouseWeb.

    November 28, 2007 | Comments ()

Leaded Glass Windows

Leaded glass windows are often referred to as 'stained glass' but typically are not colored at all. The trend towards hand-blown glass windows is surging and according to the LA Times

Whether for a faux chateau in Encino, a pseudo palazzo in Beverly Hills or a super-sized Craftsman in Venice, custom stained-glass windows made with handblown glass are now considered the ultimate finishing touch in some of L.A.'s most lavish new homes.

We feel these windows look best in period homes where the original glass would have closely resembled the new custom glass which tends to have the imperfections such as tiny bubbles and waviness that pre-industrial revolution glass would have.

    June 19, 2007 | Comments ()

Hiding Ugly Windows

An undesirable view, utilitarian casements, or ugly shutters can all be cause for you to hide your windows. As a homeowner you may have more options to replace windows or make changes to their appearance, but renters probably have to live with what they've got. Here are some tips that focus on deflecting attention from your windows not covering them up.

    June 19, 2007 | Comments ()

The Sky Factory

These virtual windows and skylights from The Sky Factory give that home office or bedroom the view you've always wanted. The backlit screens open up enclosed interior spaces with soaring views and natural light. The wall images range from island beaches to mountain lakes and the ceiling views include skies with clouds, overhanging trees, even early morning light.

    September 18, 2006 | Comments ()

Installing a Window

Window maintenance is important, especially in an older home. Drafts can raise your energy bills and windows that aren't properly seated can also allow water to enter your home and cause damage.

We've gathered some resources for buying and installing your own windows. Start here to select your window type.

Buying Windows
FAQs About Buying New Windows [Readers Digest]
Buying New Windows [Metafliter]
Buying a House? Check Out The Age, Condition Of Windows [Realtytimes]
Factors to consider when buying new windows [Southcoast Today]
Home Buying Checklist - Windows [FSBO]

Window Installation
Replacing a Window [Hammerzone]
Installing and Replacing Windows [Hometime]
Window Removal and Vinyl Window Installation [DIYNet]
Window Installation and Tips [Andersen Windows]
Window Installation Message Board [Improvenet]
Log Home Window Installation [PaulandEllen]

    June 20, 2006 | Comments ()

Modern Window Treatments

The Shade Storeis the best collection of window treatments we've found online. It's easy to buy shades, blinds, and drapes that you won't find anywhere else directly from the website. They also have a measure and install section which should make it very easy to get your treatments up in no time.

    May 22, 2006 | Comments (2)

Window Types

Andersen Windows has provided an easy window selection tool that explains the different types of windows and how to identify them.

Window Types [Andersen Windows]

    April 23, 2006 | Comments ()