Preparing your home for winter
Vulnerable parts of your home’s exterior can be exposed suddenly by winter’s icy grip. Now is the time to fix it—not January. Here’s how Empire Window Company can help.
Drafty windows become noticeable when outside temperatures drop. Now is the time to replace them and enjoy greater beauty, comfort and energy efficiency.
Northeast Ohio winters are bitter, even compared with the rest of the state. That’s because arctic air regularly dips into our region but doesn’t reach southern Ohio. That, along with our proximity to Lake Erie and the snow belt, means we see an average of 55 inches of snow each year. So, in the Cleveland area, winter has a way of exposing everything that needs fixing on your home’s exterior.
“Freezing temperatures, wind, snow and ice can wreak havoc on vulnerable parts of your home that need attention,” explains Empire Window Company owner Bill Gartner. “And the time to take care of these issues is right now—not in January.”
With more than 60 years in business, Empire can replace many of the important exterior components of your home that are vulnerable to winter’s icy grip, including windows, siding, entry doors, patio doors, gutters, and gutter guards. Let’s start with windows.
Windows
You likely won’t feel a draft from an older window on a beautiful 65-degree fall day because the difference between the inside and outside temperatures is not significant. But you’ll sure feel that draft when 25-degree January air comes pouring in.
“Don’t wait until the first cold day to remember which rooms are drafty,” Bill advises. “New windows installed now can reduce drafts, improve heating and cooling efficiency, reduce outside noise, and help block damaging UV rays. Plus, they actually operate properly. A window should open, close and lock. It should not be painted shut, broken, or impossible to use. New windows also improve your home’s appearance—inside and out.”
Siding
New siding features insulated backing to improve your home’s energy efficiency. And with Empire’s wide selection of styles and colors, you can create the home you’ve always dreamed of without moving.
“Our siding is virtually maintenance-free,” Bill says. “No more scraping and painting or worrying about strong winter winds tearing loose corners away. In addition to the beauty and energy efficiency, you likely enjoy stronger resale appeal.”
Entry Doors and Patio Doors
The front door of your home is one of the first things visitors see. “A new entry door can completely change the personality of a home while improving security, operation and energy efficiency,” Bill explains. “Especially if you see light or feel air coming through the edges of the door. And with new patio doors, you enjoy better views, easier operation, improved efficiency and UV protection.”'
Gutters and Gutter Guards
Properly functioning gutters are essential. They direct water away from your home instead of letting it overflow. “Overflowing gutters don’t just damage landscaping; they can also damage your home’s fascia or foundation, or contribute to basement water problems,” Bill says. “A new gutter system also helps prevent winter ice dams that can cause melting ice to leak into your attic.”
If your gutters are in good condition, consider installing gutter guards for safety and convenience. “No homeowner should be climbing a ladder every fall to clean gutters,” Bill cautions. Our gutter guards keep debris out while allowing water to flow in. This keeps you safely off the ladder while protecting your home.
Why Empire
Choosing windows, siding, doors and gutters is only part of the decision -choosing who you trust to install it may be even more important. Empire is local, family-owned Northeast Ohio company -not a franchise. They have served Northeast Ohio since 1960. Longevity matters combined with its purchasing volume and buying power, to offer quality products at some of the most competitive prices around.
“We’re proud to maintain A+ ratings backed by nearly 70 years of trusted references,” Bill says. “Ask a friend or family member, chances are, we’ve installed windows or siding for someone you know.”
Empire serves all of Northeast Ohio from its headquarters in Solon. Call or visit the website to schedule a free in-home estimate.
Empire Window Company
Serving Northeast Ohio from its headquarters in Solon
Five Minute Fall Home Check List
Walk around your home and ask yourself:
• Do all of my windows open, close and lock properly?
• Can I feel drafts around my windows or doors?
• Is my siding faded, damaged or requiring maintenance?
• Are my gutters overflowing or filling with leaves?
• Does my front door make the first impression I want my home to make?
If you answered yes to any of these questions. Call 216-925-0170 now to schedule your free consultation.
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