Skylights & Sun Tunnels

June 5, 2011

Skylights have always been a great addition to a home to allow more light into rooms that dont have alot of light, the downfall being the sometimes long tunnels.  Then came along the reflective tunnel skylight which they are great for adding light into a bath room, laundry room or other room you can’t install a normal skylight.  The room has a round cover on the ceiling and then a small dome on the roof.  The downfall was you would typically not want the dome on the front of a home for appearance.  Now comes Velux with their introduction a new sun tunnel with the same great interior appearanceand still allow natural light in an interior room but no dome on the outside, it can now look like a skylight!

Now the options are endless.  Want a simply skylight, maybe a 2′x2′ or 2′x4′.  You can go big with a 4′x4′ or get into venting or shaded skylights too.  When you don’t want the long ceiling tunnel you can go to a sun tunnel.  Dependant on your choice and options, tax credit may be eligible.

For any questions on skylights or windows, let Modern Homes, Inc. in conjunction with our Exterior division help with any questions. Contact Modern Homes, Inc now.

Things to Think of When Remodeling an Older Home!

February 24, 2011

There are a lot of things to considering when you are remodeling an older home. Some areas of you home might offer superb quality and craftsmanship that deserve to be restored rather than remodeled or replaced.

Trim – Molding and baseboards and even casing an important element that often offer intricate detail. Consider striping and staining the trim, or paint it a color to help it “pop” away from the wall and add visual appeal.

Entry and staircase have been a focal point in homes for years. most older staircases have quality craftsmanship with hand turned post and cut treads and risers. A restored staircase can offer irreplaceable appeal.

Hardwood Floors are a common staple in home and even the most beaten up floors can be restored by a professional.

Although replacement windows are a great idea for energy efficient. It is possible some careful weatherstripping and sealing your windows can improve the efficiency of your window. If replacement is necessary ensure you pick windows that will fit the character of your home.

If you are plaster walls and ceiling in your old house, keep then if you can. They offer character, as well as soundproofing modern drywall cannot.

Careful examine your doors for you home and you may not need to replace them. With some elbow grease and time you may be able to strip away the paint that have covered them for years and be able to restore them to be once again beautiful doors.

Tips for Deciding When to Replace Windows

September 18, 2010

Tips for Deciding When to Replace Windows

Are you looking for tips to help evaluate the effectiveness of your windows and doors in a home, or a home your looking to purchase? Consider some of there for starters:

You can determine how many panes of glass are in the windows.  Single-paned windows are the least energy efficient. You can replace them with double- or triple-paned Energy Start compliant windows to enhance energy efficiency and make a home more comfortable during all seasons.
Look for condensation inside the glass on double- or triple-glazed windows. This could indicate seal failure or an inefficient window.
Do your windows open and close easily? If your windows are hard to open or close—or they won’t stay open or locked—this could be a sign that the windows need replacing.
Have someone stand outside your window. With a small flashlight, stand inside and “travel” around the window’s perimeter. If the person outside sees areas of light coming through, this is an indication of seal failure—and probably energy loss.
Does it seems especially noisy in your house? Do you live near a busy street? You can  consider replacing your windows with laminated glass windows to help reduce noise transmission.
Did your neighbors just build a new home that’s too close to your bathroom? For added privacy, request decorative obscure glass in your windows. This will allow light to flow into the home, but will keep your privacy!

For any questions on windows, Contact Modern Homes, Inc.

Simonton Replacement Window Incentive

July 16, 2010

Looking to replace the windows in your home? Now may be the time to upgrade the the premium Simonton Reflections 5500 series windows. Here are a few reasons why!

1) Recieve a free upgrade to Low E 366 and also to the Super Spacer System (which is an upgraded glass spacer system). (limited time offer)

2) Receive $150 credit for your 2010 tax preparation @ HR Block with an eligible purchase.

3) Receive your Energy Tax Credit!

For any questions on Simonton Replacement Windows, Contact Modern Homes, Inc.

Feeling the winter chill?

January 19, 2010

The cold months in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin are here. Is it not just cold outside but cold inside too? Making you not to want to leave the warmth of your cozy blanket.

The plus to this all is that you can get rid of the drafts and lower your heating bill. These upgrade will easily pay for them selves. There are options like solar, wind or even geo-thermal, and other leading technologies. Are these worth while?? Well they all need to be looked at dependent on home location and specific circumstances. Typically I would recommend to first focus on the shell of the home. The less energy that a home needs, is the less energy that there is to be saved.

First start with the shell of your home, which can include air sealing, insulation, windows, siding etc. Attic insulation and properly installed Energy Star windows are two of the easiest ways to increase efficiency. Air sealing is very important and even more important on older homes. Siding and sheathing the home with foam board can also help your insulating value and air infiltration to your home.

Once the shell of the home is preforming the way it should your mechnical needs can dramatically change. Then one can determine the proper mechanical needs for your home.

As additional incentive to increase the efficiency of your home, many of these options have tax credits right now too. If your liking the idea of the savings on your electical and gas bill, and getting some tax credits, contact us to find out what options may be right for your home.

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