Window replacement can be quite the investment, which is why some homeowners may be willing to overlook their window problems until a replacement is absolutely necessary. But putting off that much-needed replacement has consequences. One of the area’s trusted roofers and window contractors, Homecraft® Inc. shares the four best reasons to have your windows replaced immediately.[…] Read More
If you’re planning to get a new siding this season, you should consider investing in a vinyl. This particular siding material used to have a bad rep, but technological advancements in the industry have turned it into something stronger and better. Still, there are still some common myths and misconceptions surrounding vinyl siding. Homecraft® Inc., the premier siding contractor in the area, debunks four of them here.
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Windows play a big role in keeping your home lovely, comfortable and energy-efficient. You’ll want to make the most of their service life and performance, which means setting aside some time and effort for their upkeep. Window maintenance can be fairly simple, but there are a couple of things you’ll want to avoid. Homecraft® Inc., the premier replacement windows company in the area, shares the three worst window maintenance habits.
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One simple way to enhance the look and feel of your bathroom is by adding more windows. But what kind of window will actually suit your space? One of the most trusted roofers and window contractors in the area, Homecraft® Inc. shares some of the essentials you need to consider when picking a window for your bathroom.
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Vinyl windows are among the most popular replacement window options on the market. If you’re considering them, read on as local replacement window and siding contractor Homecraft Inc. answers frequently asked questions about vinyl windows.
Thermal bridging is a phenomenon that causes thermal tracking or ghosting. In today’s post, local vinyl siding company Homecraft Inc. discusses what causes thermal bridging, its effects on your home, and what you can do to prevent it.
Thermal bridging is a phenomenon that results from temperature differences between the framing and the insulated sections in walls and ceilings. This causes thermal tracking or “ghosting,” where the shape of the underlying framing is tracked on the walls and ceilings, sometimes even on siding. The cooler parts of the wall or ceiling form a barely noticeable layer of condensation, which attracts soot, dust, and other fine particles.
Thermal tracking is barely noticeable at first. By the time it becomes noticeable, it’s difficult to remove. The only practical way to address it is to repaint the wall or replace the wallpaper. Siding may also be repainted, depending on the material.
To prevent thermal tracking, you need to address its cause, thermal bridging, as well as other factors:
Insulation — Your home has an insulated enclosure known as the energy envelope, which is made up of the exterior walls, the attic, and fenestrations (windows, entry doors, and skylights). Thermal bridging happens when the framing doesn’t have enough insulation, resulting in temperature differences. Therefore, wall and attic insulation needs to be applied. Installing insulated vinyl siding can bolster exterior wall insulation, and is less likely to form exterior thermal tracking.
Indoor Air Quality — Thermal tracks are formed accumulated particulates in the air, typically a combination of soot and dust. If your home is heated using a fuel-burning heating system, you need to make sure the exhaust is not leaking into your indoor living spaces. You also have to make sure that HVAC air filters are replaced when clogged. Installing a whole-home air purifier can also help remove indoor air pollutants.
Relative Indoor Humidity — Condensation is the third factor that contributes to thermal tracking. Keeping indoor humidity at 50% relative to outdoor humidity levels can help prevent indoor condensation. Running exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen can help control sources of indoor condensation. An indoor humidifier/dehumidifier, integrated with your HVAC system, can help maintain relative indoor humidity levels all year round.
Homecraft Inc. is your leading provider of entry doors and insulated vinyl siding. Give us a call at (302) 703-1109 or (610) 215-2562. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Newark, Wilmington and Middletown, DE.
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