Are you guilty of shopping for something before doing your research? I am. Take my dog, for example. A little over a year ago, I fell in love with this fluffy little face on a social media page hosted by a local shelter. She was almost eight years old, perfect size for me (35 pounds), and she needed a home. I am a sucker for a sweet little face and I just had to have her.
I literally spent all of 10 minutes reading her cute little “adopt me” ad before I committed to becoming her mommy. Now, just so you know, I have successfully “mommed” two other fluffy babies for the last decade—so, I thought adding a third fur babe would be a breeze.
I was wrong.
She’s a terror and she’s a lover all in one. I love her and she is mine—but I had absolutely no idea what I had signed up for. My sweet little fluffy girl has altered my life. I don’t sleep in late anymore (she likes breakfast at the crack of dawn) and I am now one of those grown-ups who must go home to “potty” her dog. She’s allergic to everything, so I make her home-made food. Yep, I’m THAT dog-mom. And, she likes to “herd” her cat brothers. Not cool, Little Lady.
My point is, we all tend to get excited about new prospects, be it a dog or a new hairstyle, or something big—like a home window replacement project.
Thinking about new windows for your home? Here at The Screen Shop, we like to do our due diligence and make sure you’re prepared to take a plunge! Now, I don’t mean you need to become an expert on windows—that’s our job. But, before you “window shop,” learn some of the lingo:
Double-hung windows: These may be opened from the top and the bottom.
Casement & awning windows: These open with a crank (easy operation).
Sill: The horizontal “bottom” of a window which rests on the foundation of your home and supports the window frame. Often, there’s space for picture frames (or for a cat to perch…)
Picture window: Doesn’t open, simply provides a “picture” of natural light (usually for large spaces).
Slider window: Much like a sliding-glass porch door, only smaller.
Double-pane windows: Two pieces of glass with space between, often filled with argon or krypton gas for extra insulation.
Sash: The stationary and/or operating part of the window that is separate from the frame. Often commonly referred to as the “pane” or “panel.”
Mullion: Vertical or horizontal dividers (give a very traditional look to a window).
Active Panel: The primary operating sash.
Of course, there is more lingo to learn, but this should get you started! Just please, heed our advice: take your time in deciding what works for you and your home. New replacement windows in Sunnyvale, CA should not be an impulse buy! Our team here at The Screen Shop would love to help you choose the best windows for your home. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
The Screen Shop | 601 Hamline St.| San Jose, CA 95110 | 408.295.7384 | contactus@thescreenshop.com