Window Wrap Up: Universal Windows Direct Updates

Hello friends!

It's been a busy few weeks for everyone as we wind down October.  Here is some of our great content you may have missed!

Universal Windows Direct works Fall Home ShowsHome Improvement  & Remodeling Show Pictures

Did you see us at the Convention Center?

Replace your windows  - just a few at a time!

Community Involvement - Pinewood Phantom Fun Run

Me and my helper at the Pinewood Fun Run

Fall Pasta Recipe:  Pasta with Pumpkin and Sausage

We're on Pinterest! Let your obsession continue by checking out our boards!

Also, don't forget to visit our Facebook page to see what we're up to every day!   Thanks so much for checking out our blog and enjoy this beautiful fall weekend and Happy November everybody!!

Author:  Melissa Brager

Universal Windows Direct, MN

Free Quotes and Current Specials

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "B"

Balance

A mechanical device (normally spring-loaded) used in single- and double-hung windows as a means of counterbalancing the weight of the sash during opening and closing.  UniShield windows come with a true balance system, and no weights for a cleaner look and for consistent performance.

Bay Window

An arrangement of three or more individual window units, attached so as to project from the building at various angles. In a three-unit bay, the center section is normally fixed, with the end panels operable as double-hung or casement windows.

Bow Window

A rounded bay window with 5 or more sashes – often all of them open.

Building Permit

A requirement in most cities to ensure the installation meets state building code requirements but also they always ALWAYS look to make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working. .

 For more information on window terminology, and to get your free quote on replacement windows from Steve the Window Guy click the button below.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "D"

Double Casement

Style of window where two individual casements are mulled together.

Double glazing

In general, two panes of glass separated by a spacer and air space within an opening to improve insulation against heat transfer and/or sound transmission. In factory-made double glazing units, the air between the glass sheets is thoroughly dried and the space is sealed airtight, eliminating possible condensation and providing superior insulating properties.

Double-hung window

A window consisting of two sashes operating in a rectangular frame, in which both the upper and lower halves can be slid up and down.  Sashes also tilt in for easy cleaning. A counterbalance mechanism usually holds the sash in place.

Double pane glass

Two panes of glass separated by a window spacer, creating the sash of the window.  UniShield replacement windows come in double pane and triple pane options.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "E"

Egress Window

Is a law that specifies that a window opening must be able to open wide enough for a person to get out or a firefighter to get in.    MN requires egress windows in every room used as a bedroom.

Energy Star

ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.

Exterior Stop

The removable part of the window that holds the glass or panel in place when looking at the window from the outside.   Also called outside stops.

Exterior Wrap

Finishing option where the outside of the window and the exterior stops are wrapped in aluminum.   Wrap may be smooth or textured and comes in a variety of colors to add visual interest to the room.

Extrusion

The process of producing vinyl shapes by forcing heated material through an orifice in a dye. For example, our windows are all extruded so the entire window starts as one color… only changing if you choose an upgrade to a wood interior or a painted exterior. 

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "F"

Factory Direct Pricing

Reduced cost pricing where you don’t pay any middle man markups on your product.   When the vinyl windows pass from the factory directly to the person you buy them from, you save money.

Fire Code

City or State Code that define requirements needed to keep a family safe from fire.

Fixed Panel

The side  of a sliding window or slider glass door that doesn’t move.

Fixed Window

A window that doesn’t open.  Also called a picture window.

Float Glass

Glass formed by a process of floating the material on a bed of molten metal. It produces a high-optical-quality glass with parallel surfaces, without polishing and grinding.  Makes the finished product very easy to clean.  This is a feature on the UniShield Window

Foam Fill

An option on the UniShield window where insulation is blown into the air chambers of the window frame, providing even more insulation.   Perfect for a climate like MN where every bit of insulation counts.

Fogging

A deposit of contamination left on the inside surface of a sealed insulating glass unit due to extremes of temperatures or failed seals.

Frame

The outer part of the window that holds the sash or casement as well as hardware.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "G"

Garden Window

A window type that is 3 dimensional and projects from the exterior wall.  Usually there is glass on all sides except the bottom.   Generally used in kitchens or spaces looking for more light.   Also called a Greenhouse window.

Gas Fill

Term given to describe how the space between the panes of glass are insulated.   Usually argon or krypton is used in windows and patio doors.

Glass

An inorganic transparent material composed of silica (sand), soda (sodium carbonate), and lime (calcium carbonate) with small quantities of alumina, boric, or magnesia oxides.   Technical, right?   Glass is why we can see through the window.

Greenhouse Window

A window type that is 3 dimensional and projects from the exterior wall.  Usually there is glass on all sides except the bottom.   Generally used in kitchens or spaces looking for more light.   Also called a Garden window.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "I"

Insert Window

A window that does not require altering the opening of the home, or re-framing the window space.   Insert windows are installed in the existing opening as is and then re-insulated.   Also referred to as “pocket” windows or “replacement windows”

Insulating Glass Unit

Two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer and hermetically sealed to form a single glazed unit with one or more air spaces in between.

Insulating Value

See U-factor.

For more information on window terminology, and to get your free quote on replacement windows from Steve the Window Guy, click the button below.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "K"

Krypton

An inert, nontoxic gas used in insulating windows to reduce heat transfer.  Krypton is more dense than argon and therefore provides an even higher insulating value to windows.   UniShield windows offer Krypton gas as an upgrade in both double pane and triple pane replacement windows.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "M"

Maintenance Free

Term used frequently with vinyl windows.   There is no scraping, painting, staining, sanding or caulking required to keep the windows looking great.

Meeting Rail

The part of a sliding window, a sliding glass door, or a hung window where two panels meet, and create a weather barrier.

Metal Spacer

Spacer used in lower end windows.  Conducts heat and cold through the window and typically carries a lower warranty.

Mullion

A major structural vertical or horizontal member between window units.   UniShield windows can be factory mulled, or mulled in the field.

Muntin

Another word for “Grids”.   A decorative window option that gives the appearance of a multilight sash, but in a single panel.  UniShield windows offer contoured and prairie style muntins – in either etched glass or in a color matching the interior finish. 

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.

Window Terminology: Window Terms Starting with "O"

Obscure Glass

Any textured glass (frosted, etched, fluted, ground, etc.) used for privacy, light diffusion, or decorative effects.   Commonly used in main floor bathroom windows.

We are a shop at home company specializing in replacing windows, siding, roofs and front entry doors.   As we sit with you and learn about what you want to change on your home we can provide the best product and color options to you.  You can expect lots of questions from us as we try to understand what you're looking for.  For that reason,  it is best if both homeowners are there.   We commit to giving you a detailed, same day estimate.   Every time.

Steve the Window Guy for Universal Windows Direct is a full exterior remodeling company focusing on replacing windows, siding and roofing. Steve and his team of are experts in working with people just like you to create a plan for the most cost efficient way to complete your exterior remodeling project. We are part of a national dealer network that has catapulted to be a top 10 remodeling company in the nation. Locally we have an A+ rating with the BBB with zero complaints. Steve has been recognized by Universal Windows Direct as National Dealer of the Year three times for his hard work and dedication to getting things right. We are locally owned and operated in Bloomington, MN and work throughout the Twin Cities Metro. Updating your home can be easy.

We believe Steve the Window, Siding and Roofing Guy was just too long of a name.

*Source: Qualified Remodelers Top 500 List, Published September 2021.