Basically there are three types of materials used. Aluminum windows, with their easily scratched painted surfaces, conduct both heat and cold, so they're very poor insulators. Wood windows, which require constant painting and caulking, can absorb moisture, making them difficult to open and close. They can even rot. Our solid vinyl windows, however, never need painting and won't show scratches, because the color goes throughout the material. This is why vinyl windows are quickly becoming the most popular choice for both new construction and replacement applications.
In addition, you should certainly consider custom-sized windows for the very simple reason that they'll fit better. Stock-sized windows require extensive carpentry work both inside and outside your house. That can be very costly and inconvenient. Seven Sun custom-sized windows, on the other hand, are manufactured to fit your existing window opening. You get the style and options you want while maintaining your glass area.
There are two basic types of construction: Mechanically fastened windows are screwed together at the corners. There are also welded windows, becoming more and more popular that use a chemical or heat process for joining. Our manufacturer produces mechanically fastened and welded windows. Our mechanically fastened windows feature a unique overlap corner design for extra strength, while our welded versions utilize state-of-the-art heat welding equipment. Beware of windows with mitered corners screwed together or chemically welded corners, as they probably won't perform as well for you.
Certainly, because we offer a wide variety of custom window styles and shapes for whatever style of your home may be. You may want to consult our design specialist to find the type of window that best complements your home's natural design. No matter what style or combination of styles you choose, however, our manufacturer can custom-manufacture it all for you.
Not at all. Many companies buy their parts and glass from various outside sources. Our manufacturer extrudes most of their own parts from the raw vinyl (PVC) resin themselves.
You should also know that although a lot of manufacturers claim their windows are American-made, many in fact may be imported from Canada and other foreign countries. We're proud to say that every window Seven Sun Windows installs is manufactured right here in the U.S.A.
You should look for a window that offers both superior strength and energy efficiency. Our windows are manufactured using a computer-controlled process that ensures a perfectly square window sash and mainframe with superior strength. And for exceptional energy efficiency, a full interlock at the meeting rail helps protect your home against the elements, or unwanted intrusions. In addition, our insulating glass unit traps either Argon or Krypton gas (that depends on your choice), creating an exceptional comfort barrier.
Moreover, homeowners with windows installed by Seven Sun say there's a noticeable reduction in the amount of noise that enters their homes. A full interlock system at the point where upper and lower sashes meet helps stop air infiltration while providing an additional barrier against unwanted intrusions.
Because our frames and sashes are made of vinyl, you can say goodbye to painting and caulking. Our windows won't stick, and you don't have to go outside or use a ladder to clean them. In fact, you can do it all from inside your home. An occasional wipe with a damp cloth will keep your windows looking like new for years to come.
Be careful when looking at extremely specific results since many of them do not really indicate how well the window will work for you. Some apply to just certain parts of the window, like the center of the glass and its R-value, and do not give an overall picture. Tested in nationally-certified labs and our manufacturer’s own modern test facility, our windows are engineered to provide the optimum in energy savings and are monitored by the National Fenestration Rating Council.
Since 80% of a window is glass, real heating and cooling savings come from what is known as "improved glass performance," not a high R-value on the frame. Our windows are made using the latest technology, known as a high performance warm edge spacer system. This spacer system helps to improve the performance and the longevity of the insulated glass unit, and is standard on all Seven Sun windows. For more information go to our section: Glass-the engine of your window.
You should give careful consideration to the TG2 Triple Glass Insulated Glass Package. This package features not two but three panes of Low-E (low emissivity) glass with two chamber of argon gas. Low-E glass is an excellent barrier against ultraviolet rays which fade carpet, furniture, draperies, and even woodwork. In regular double -glass window there are 2 layers of Low-E coating. TG2 package features 4 layers of soft-coat Low-E that is applied to the inner part of glass making it impossible to damage or scratch while cleaning. Argon gas is colorless, odorless, nonflammable, nontoxic, and above all, a safe, inert gas that is heavier than air.
Not only does argon gas help to increase the energy efficiency of a window, but helps to make your home quieter as well. When your windows are equipped with the TG2 Triple Insulated Glass Package, they automatically exceed the energy-saving requirements for all four climate zones set forth by the ENERGY STAR® Window program. Or you can get the Triple glass package with Krypton gas that provides even further energy efficiency as an option.
The ENERGY STAR® program was created by the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to help consumers in the recognition of energy-efficient products. This program also promotes the environmental and economic benefits of these products through the ENERGY STAR label and other program activities.
Yes, for a variety of reasons. First, you may realize savings on your heating and cooling bills. Second, they're virtually maintenance-free, which eliminates painting costs. Third, the transferability of one of the strongest warranties in the business may easily add to the resale value of your home. And finally, our professional installation and post-installation service will ensure years of trouble-free operation. And this simply saves your valuable time and energy.
Not really. There are as many warranties as there are window manufacturers. Some brand name factory warranties cover just the sash and frame. The rest is left up to the local fabricator who may or may not cover it. Your warranty is only as good as the company behind it. With Seven Sun, your window is warranted from the extrusion and parts to the glass and construction by our Lifetime Limited Warranty*, with transferability provisions. It's one of the most comprehensive available, just what you'd expect from the professional company.
All windows from Seven Sun Windows are custom made. Unlike consumer grade stock windows sold through the home improvement retailers, professional-class windows are customized to your exact measurements for a better fit and more secure and energy efficient windows. Please allow 2 to 4 weeks before we install your new windows – tailored just for your home.
While it may take anywhere from 1 to 5 days, we finish most (about 75%) window installations in just 1 day. Factors that decide about the timeframe of your window project are:
In order to make the installation process more efficient, we ask that our customers move the furniture, if necessary, so that installers have easy access to the windows that need to be replaced. However, if you feel that you may not be able to do it by yourself, please let us know in advance so we can plan the installation accordingly and have our installers do it for you.
Our installers always cover the floor in the working area with drop cloth and use special care not to damage your floor regardless of its type. We take respect your home and take great pains to protect it during installation.
It is entirely up to you. If you feel more comfortable to be home during installation, let us know what day would work best for you so that we can fit the installation day into your schedule. However, if you are, for example, a busy professional or you are planning a vacation at the time of installation, let us take care of your window project so that you can take care of your busy life. There’s really no need to change your plans because of the window project.
Yes. Upon completion, we will clean up all the debris and will haul away your old windows. You don’t have to worry about going to the landfill or paying for dumpster.
Over the years we tried using different types of insulation from batt insulation to the foam insulation that is already attached to the window frame. And we learned that the best solution is professional grade spray-in window and door foam insulation. It fills all the gaps around the window securely without bowing the frame. The problem with batt insulation is that if too much insulation is inserted in the window opening, it loses its insulating value. On the other hand, if installers put in too little batt insulation it is easy to overlook and leave gaps in insulation. That may cause drafts around the window. Sometimes foam wrap, which is basically a thin piece of insulation wrapped around window perimeter, is used. The two problems with foam wrap are that: first, it does not insulate entire width of the window jamb, simply because it’s usually narrower than window jamb, second, often it leaves gaps in all four corners of the window frame. Although it is a little more time consuming, for every window and door project we use spray-in foam. It is a minimal-expanding foam with a low pressure build that forms a durable, airtight and water-resistant seal between a window or door frame and its rough opening without bowing or bending the window frames. In most European countries, this type of insulation has been, for decades, the main choice for building professionals.
Normally, if the interior trim is in good shape, we will re-install it after new windows have been installed. However, we can, at your discretion install brand new interior trim for the more complete window project. Just ask us about your interior trim options during an in-home estimate.
In 99% of homes, there’s no need to replace existing trim. We will cap an existing exterior trim with professional grade PVC aluminum. The benefits of capping exterior trim by Seven Sun are:
Yes, Seven Sun installs windows during winter months so you don’t have to wait till spring. During cold winter months, you may see the highest energy bills of the year due to the old inefficient windows. Seven Sun installs only high performance energy efficient windows that will start saving you money on energy bills right away. We will replace your old window with a new window one window at the time. This method will minimize the exposure to the cool air and will allow us to keep you as comfortable as possible.
It is entirely up to you. However, we recommend that old storm windows be removed and exterior trim be capped with professional grade PVC aluminum. Your home’s exterior will look newer. Plus, our windows are so energy efficient that your old storm windows will provide only marginal benefit in regards to the energy efficiency.
Yes. Our shutter collection features the natural look of textured wood with colors that go clear through. They are available in a variety of styles and sizes to complement the scale and architecture of your home. The strong, one piece polymer construction makes these shutters nearly impervious to water and airborne pollutants. The ability to resist the fading, chipping and cracking caused by the hot summer sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, is more important than ever. In the winter these shutters stand up beautifully to the effects of bitter cold, driving rain, sleet and snow. You can count on years of beautiful service on your home.
50% due at signing. 50% due upon completion.
Yes. We accept all major credit cards.
Please refer to the care and operation of your new windows section.
In a way, it's almost no contest. When compared to wood, brick, stone, stucco, and metal sidings on the basis of initial cost, maintenance costs, appearance, durability and value, vinyl siding is clearly superior.
Seven Sun offers a broad range of vinyl siding products, so you can choose one that's easily affordable. Whichever you choose, you can expect the highest quality and lasting beauty. And our vinyl siding never needs painting or staining. It doesn't chip, peel, dent or rot, so you can forget costly repairs. Just rinse occasionally with a garden hose.
In addition, Seven Sun vinyl sidings are backed by a strong Lifetime Limited Warranty*. And because vinyl is the preferred siding for more and more homeowners, it retains most of its installed cost. Moreover, our premium insulated siding provides all the beauty of expensive wood sidings with your choice finely milled grained surfaces; rich, low-gloss colors; and a variety of classic siding profiles. Seven Sun insulated siding is also one of the best performing sidings in the market in regard to energy efficiency.
Maybe you're tired of dealing with peeling paint and rotting clapboards. And you wonder, "Will another coat of paint really hide the weather-worn condition of my wood siding? And even if it can, is it worth the cost?" Or maybe you're thinking about replacing warped hardboard siding...or getting rid of dated asphalt or asbestos siding...or eliminating dented metal siding...or giving a fresh, contemporary look to masonry walls.
Then now's the time to switch to the easy-care beauty of Seven Sun premium vinyl siding. A wide choice of styles, colors and trim options makes it simple to create the look you want for your home-whether it's a contemporary colonial or a 120-year old farmhouse.
New siding will rejuvenate an older home, give it a completely new look and significantly reduce costs for home upkeep and maintenance. For over 60 years, our manufacturer has been helping millions of Americans create homes that match their dreams and fit their budgets. And with a full range of trim, soffit and accessory options available in a host of different decorator colors, virtually any look can be achieved to improve the appearance and durability of your home's exterior.
If you plan to move within the next three years, the answer is probably "yes." But if you plan to stay in your home longer than that, the calculations begin to heavily favor vinyl siding.
Of course, if your home has special problems-for example, warped clapboards that have to be replaced or lead-based paint that has to be scraped and sanded off-the cost of painting can become truly staggering.
According to the NAR/Remodeling magazine's 2005 Cost vs. Value report, homeowners can recoup 103.6% of the cost of vinyl siding in terms of resale value added to the home.
"Siding makes a huge difference in a house's resale value, because it's one of the first things you see. It really defines the condition of the home," says Moe Veissi of Veissi & Associates Inc., in Miami. "If other houses around you have old aluminum or vinyl siding and your siding is nicer and newer, buyers will notice you. With this project, you make your house more attractive -- you're not just improving your insulation value."
Compare the ongoing costs of painting every three to five years to a one-time investment in new vinyl siding. For most homeowners the conclusion is obvious-vinyl siding is by far the better long-term value.
Not when it comes to siding. Vinyl siding's outstanding features and benefits have made it the most popular siding material in America today. And because vinyl is the preferred siding for more and more homeowners, it retains most of its installed cost (see previous question for details). It's the material of choice on new luxury homes...and the first choice for remodeling projects large and small.
Leading home improvement companies such as Seven Sun offer a broad range of vinyl siding products, so you can choose one that's easily affordable. Plus, our vinyl siding never needs painting or staining. It doesn't chip, peel, dent or rot, so you can forget costly repairs. To maintain a like-new appearance, just rinse occasionally with a garden hose.
And our vinyl siding offers flexible design options that make it ideal for contemporary homes...and for stately century-old Victorians. You can choose from smooth or grained surfaces; rich, low-gloss colors; and a wide variety of classic siding profiles-plus low-maintenance trim products and accessory options that add to both the beauty and value of your home.
What's more, vinyl sidings from Seven Sun are backed by a strong Lifetime Limited Warranty*, so you can count on getting all the quality you paid for.
Exceptional beauty. Durability. Economical price. Easy maintenance. Long-term value. Outstanding warranty and post-installation service. If these are your criteria, there's no better choice than vinyl siding installed by Seven Sun.
In terms of adding resale value to your home, vinyl siding is one of the best investments you can make. In its annual survey of project cost versus added value, Remodeling magazine said that "the highest payback comes from projects that give an older home the same features that have become standard in new homes."
Exterior improvements such as the installation of vinyl siding also make a home more attractive on the market. According to a real estate agent interviewed by Remodeling, "Things like new siding and new windows will not add dollar for dollar value... (but) they will cause the house to sell quicker for more money."
Another point to keep in mind: if, like many homeowners, you add insulation to an older home at the same time you're having vinyl siding installed, you add even greater value and market appeal to your home.
Vinyl siding is one of the most versatile exterior design products you can work with. Seven Sun, for example, offers many different vinyl siding lines. That broad selection lets you choose among a wide variety of design options, including horizontal and vertical siding; traditional clapboard and authentically detailed "shaped" sidings; wide and narrow panel exposures; smooth, subtle and deep wood grain textures; plus a wide assortment of traditional and contemporary colors.
Not sure what "exact look" you want? Just check out the many styles that are available, right here on our website. Or when you call Seven Sun for a siding quote, ask for a copy of Siding Trim and Accessories or The Color Guide for Your Home's Exterior. Both are filled with ideas and suggestions that can help you plan your special remodeling project.
When you design the exterior of your home, you should think about more than just siding. You'll need trim for windows and doors, and at inside and outside corners. You also may need soffit to finish the underside of eaves, or for a porch ceiling or entry overhang.
With Seven Sun, creating a finishing touch that sets your home apart is easy. Because we offer a complete range of easy-care accessory and trim options. Standard trim lets you merge siding and trim pieces to create a balanced, uniform look. Trimworks® decorative accessories provide the premium look of hand-crafted beauty. These trim products give you an exceptional way to add special elegance at windows, doors, corners and other key accent areas.
Sure. Vinyl siding is extremely versatile and can be used with just about any exterior building material-brick, cinder block, even natural logs and field stones.
If you have special installation concerns-such as running vinyl siding along a natural stone chimney, for example, schedule a free consultation. We will come out at look at your particular situation and check if vinyl siding is a good way to go with your project.
Absolutely. The correct technical name for the material used in vinyl siding is polyvinyl chloride. It's a strong, durable, proven material that has earned a solid reputation for its beauty and permanence. It's used in automotive applications, medical devices, defense weapons, appliances, floor coverings, and of course, home construction.
It's ideal as an exterior material because vinyl siding doesn't rot, crack, dent or warp. Plus it never peels or blisters. And because the color goes completely through Alside siding, it never has to be scraped, sanded or painted.
First and foremost, make an informed decision. Require references and look at previous work. Word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors or friends who have recently re-sided their houses are an excellent start. You may also want to ask about liability insurance, customer satisfaction policies and professional credentials.
The relationship you have with your home improvement professional is extremely important. Choose someone whose skills you trust, someone qualified to perform the task required, and someone you can work with comfortably.
It's simple. There really is no maintenance, just occasional cleaning.
Ordinarily, the cleaning action of a rainfall will be adequate to wash your vinyl siding. However, vinyl siding and soffit should be washed periodically by hosing with a garden hose and clear water, particularly in those areas not exposed directly to rain. If you desire to do a more thorough cleaning, or where high soil collection conditions occur, use a soft-bristled, long-handled washing brush. It attaches to your garden hose and makes washing your siding easier.
Do not rub vigorously. This may create glossy areas over the vinyl siding finish. For hard-to-remove dirt, such as soot and grime found in industrial areas, wipe the siding down with a solution that's recommended by the manufacturer. If you wash the entire house, start at the bottom and work up to the top, as less streaking will result. It is important that immediately following all washing operations, the entire surface be thoroughly rinsed with fresh water from a garden hose.
Not really. You can have your vinyl siding installed in any season, as your schedule and budget allow. But keep in mind that some professionals are more available during the off-seasons. Regardless of when you have your new siding installed, you'll enjoy the immediate benefits of improved appearance, as well as the long-term benefits of durability and easy maintenance.
It really depends on variety of factors such as: size and style of your home, type of the siding material, weather etc. But average siding projects takes about 1-2 weeks.
While it costs a little more to remove the old siding, we recommend that old siding be removed. Your home will benefit from the straighter look of your new siding. Plus, we will be able to inspect the walls of your home for any possible damage done by water/moisture over the years. If damage is found, rotten walls can be fixed right before new siding is installed.
To answer the second question: yes, it is still possible to install new siding over existing siding.
Yes. Insulation makes your home more energy efficient saving you money on energy bills. Additional benefits are: increased comfort inside your home and outside noise reduction.
Answer:
“When new siding is to be installed, it is a good idea to consider adding thermal insulation under new siding."
-The United States Department of Energy
When using insulated siding, it is virtually impossible to skip insulation on any area of the wall, because insulation is laminated to siding panels in the manufacturing process.
There may be a hidden energy leak in your walls that you don't even know about and it's costing you money every day! The culprit is the wood studs in your walls: heat by-passes the batt insulation (pink stuff) in your wall cavity and transfers through these studs, allowing energy to leak through your walls. This process is called thermal bridging.
How dramatic is thermal bridging? Nearly 25% of your home's wall surface is made of studs that typically aren't insulated, so it's like having one entire wall of your home with no insulation.
Yesterday's siding products were not designed to solve the problem of thermal bridging, but today, Fullback is the answer! Fullback siding insulation is rigid foam insulation placed behind vinyl siding during installation or laminated to it during the manufacturing process. Because the insulation is contoured to fill the gap between the siding and your home, it delivers maximum energy efficiency, along with lasting beauty, durability and low maintenance.
Fullback can make your siding thermally superior to all other exterior cladding options. It has 3 to 6 times the thermal performance of traditional vinyl siding.
It is always a good idea to get new gutters along with new siding for the better visual effect of the entire project. You will be able to choose the color of new gutters that will complement the color of siding, soffit, and that of facia. However, you may want to keep the existing gutters, if they’re not too old and they do not show signs of significant wear. Keep in mind that details matter. If you’re investing in new siding it may make more sense to replace the gutters, too.
When homeowners are considering making improvements to their home, one of the most important questions they ask is “How much will it cost?” This also tends to be one of the most difficult questions to answer, primarily because each home is unique and every homeowner’s preferences are different.
When it comes to siding, there are many factors that can influence how much it will cost, including but not limited to:
Keeping all these variables in mind, we recommend that you have a qualified remodeling company such as Seven Sun come out to your home to provide accurate pricing for the project you’re thinking of starting. We will take accurate measurements of your home, assess your unique situation and generate an accurate price based on your needs.
According to Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value report, the additional cost of installing new foam backed insulated vinyl siding (vinyl siding with insulation laminated to the back during the manufacturing process) is about 22%.
Consider these additional that benefits that insulated siding provides:
