With another winter now (hopefully) behind us, Minnesotans are slowly coming out of hibernation. You’ve probably already started jotting down your seasonal to-dos. While checking your home’s windows for any winter damage, give them a good cleanse, too. Ensure they’re ready to shine in the summer sun with these tips for spring window cleaning and care.

The Framework

The glass is probably the most widely recognized element of a window because that’s the part we look through. But the framework that holds the glass in place is just as important and deserves attention as well.

With a soft rag or brush and a mild soap and water mix, wipe down every part of the window framing. That can include the trim, sash, jambs, and sills. Also, wipe down the casings and any ledges on the outside.

If you have wooden framing around your windows, take note of the wood’s condition. Is it flaking or peeling? Is it jagged and rough? You may need to scrape or sand the surface and then repaint or stain it. But this kind of TLC will keep your windows looking great.

If the windows are older or you notice extensive wear and tear, you may want to upgrade to sturdier, more energy efficient windows. The Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless can answer any questions.

The Accessories

To ensure optimal function, be sure to complete some spring window cleaning of the fixtures and accessories. Vacuum the track to remove any dirt, debris particles, or even little bug bodies that may have collected over winter.

Rinse off or wipe down hinges, rollers, and locks and allow each piece to fully dry. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to any moving parts to keep them functional and make for easier window operation. If you notice any missing or broken components, talk to a trained window expert for replacement parts or window replacement.

The Glass

Your home’s windows have likely been sealed up since fall. And maybe you’ve noticed a build-up of gunk or film on the glass over the past few months. Give the glass panes a thorough wash, inside and out to get rid of that winter grime.

Choose your preferred cleaning solution, whether that’s a store-bought cleaner, soap and water, or a homemade solvent. Then go to town, using your favorite method of streak-free cleaning. Maybe that means using a microfiber cloth, sponge and squeegee, or yesterday’s newspaper.

Once your windows are shiny and clean, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and be all set for the sunny season.

Are you ready to get your home out of its winter hibernation? You can start crossing things off your list with these tips for spring window cleaning and care. If you notice your home needs window repairs or upgrades, ask the home exteriors experts at Spotless & Seamless for guidance. Our crew can offer recommendations to fit your style and budget. Contact us today with any questions.

The calendar is turning toward spring, but your home may still feel the harsh effects from winter. The best way to know for sure is to walk around your yard and take note of anything in need of attention. If you don’t know where to start, we can help with these exterior care to-dos for your spring list.

Roofing

Your home’s roof has endured a lot – cold, wind, ice, and snow – over the past several months.

Give the roof a good examination and look for signs of distress, such as loose, missing, or curled shingles. Pay attention indoors for signs of leaks originating from the outdoors. Take note of the roof’s appearance, as indentations or depressions may indicate larger issues beneath the surface.

Any and all of these issues should be addressed as quickly as possible. Taking care of them now will help you avoid bigger and more costly problems down the road.

Gutters

More than likely, you cleaned out the gutters last fall. Now, you’ll want to make sure the snow and ice melting from the rooftop have a designated and safe route for escape.

Give the gutters another look in case branches or other debris got stuck in them over the winter. Or maybe you notice gaps in the system or loose connections. Replace and repair anything that’s broken or loose or reach out to a trained professional to handle the fixes.

Maybe now is the time to upgrade your gutters and consider a LEAFAWAY® protection system. You won’t have to clean your gutters or worry about drainage again.

Siding

Check the siding for any pieces that may have come loose or become damaged or warped over the winter months.

You’ll want to take care of any issues right away to prevent moisture from getting in as the spring thaw continues. Moisture can wreak havoc by causing wood rot or issues with mold, creating costly headaches and potential health issues for your family.

If your home’s siding is in need of full repair, United States Seamless® Steel Siding provides a superior option for ideal performance and protection.

Windows

Seasonal temperature fluctuations put your windows to the test, and winter’s frigid conditions are especially brutal. Thoroughly clean the windows so they’re ready for warmer weather, and check for cracks in the glass or damage to the panes or sills. Determine what, if anything, should be mended immediately to protect your home. You want to be sure to keep the unconditioned air and water outside where it belongs.

Perhaps this is the year you upgrade to energy efficient windows. Save on heating and cooling costs while increasing comfort, safety, and curb appeal with high-performance Ply Gem windows.

These are just a few ideas of exterior care to-dos for your spring list, but they’re enough to get you started. If you notice any issues that seem troublesome, Spotless & Seamless is here to help. Our Twin Cities home exteriors experts can assess roofing, gutters, siding, and windows and go over ideas for repair or replacement to fit your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today.

Thinking about adding a little something extra to your living space but unsure where to start? Take a look at and out your windows. Maybe you want to increase luminosity, capacity, or versatility. Keep reading to learn a few ways you can enhance your home with bay windows.

What Makes a Bay Window?

First off, what is a bay window and is it different from a bow window? We’ll discuss bow windows in our next blog, but for now, let’s talk about bay windows.

Bay windows jut out from your home and usually have three sides set at varying angles. Most bay windows are shaped like isosceles trapezoids, with the smaller side windows – called flankers – set at similar angles and the larger picture window parallel to the home.

More Light

By way of its unique design, a bay window can help add an abundance of natural light to any room. This is essentially a large wall of windows facing slightly different angles, so it easily increases the amount of sunlight coming in throughout the day in any direction.

The additional light can help cut down on energy expenses and improve your mood. You may find you’re using in-home lamps less and saving electricity. Furthermore, the extra daylight aids in the brain’s regulation of serotonin, which helps you feel calm and more focused.

Extra Space

Because bay windows protrude out from your home, the overall space inside seems larger while the actual space increases only slightly. The glass panes provide an unrestricted feel and expansive views that open up the room.

Additionally, the extra space adjacent to the window is often used for seating, storage, a cozy reading alcove, or a place to nurture houseplants. Combine seating and storage with a flip-top bench and really take advantage of that added area.

Value and Versatility

Adding a bay window adds a classic look to your home’s exterior and often increases its overall value.

Large walls are optimal spaces to install these features, and they complement any room in the home. Brighten up your living room or home office. Get better outdoor views from the kitchen. Add a reading cubby to any or every bedroom.

Whether you want to add light, space, value, versatility, or altogether fun, Spotless & Seamless can help you enhance your home with bay windows. Consult with our Twin Cities home exteriors professionals to select a personalized look for your space that fits your needs and budget. Contact us today with questions or to get started on your home’s new look.

When it’s frigid and blustery outdoors, most people want to stay snuggly warm indoors. This is especially true right now, during winter’s coldest months. Your home’s windows are one safeguard from the chilly temps outside. Be sure to watch for winter window damage so you can protect your home and enjoy the season without being left in the cold.

Cracking

Thermal stress cracks are caused by abrupt temperature changes, such as extreme cold. That chilly air can create tension with enough force to crack the glass. A tiny crack can often spread across the window, creating a bigger, more visible, and immediate issue.

Blasts of wind from a wicked winter storm can knock tree branches against and occasionally into a window. This can scratch or even break the glass and possibly require an urgent fix to keep the cold air outside where it belongs.

Warping

Some materials, especially wood, are prone to warping and bending under intense heat (and humidity) or severe cold. Untreated window frames are put through the wringer in areas with humid summers and frigid winters, both of which are staples in Minnesota. That continuous fluctuation can cause wood to lose its structural integrity, putting your windows and your home at risk.

Malfunctioning

In wintertime, window locks, handles, hinges, or other hardware elements may be difficult or impossible to operate. This could be due to ice or snow accumulation or from the cold weather freezing things in place or cracking them altogether. You probably don’t plan to open your windows much if at all in the winter, but for safety and security reasons, you don’t want them rendered inoperable, either.

Icing

Windows can also freeze shut from ice buildup. Moisture seeps through window edges and hardens once it hits the cold air, freezing the window in place and causing damage to the weather stripping. That creates a snowball effect of moisture escaping and freezing, leading to more ice formation in and around the windows.

Ice can also cause problems when it collects on eaves, gutters, or rooflines. Once those icicles or ice formations become too heavy to hang, they can break off and potentially impair or break any nearby windows. Be sure to keep an eye on what’s happening outside so that it doesn’t come crashing inside.

The cold Minnesota weather can cause all kinds of disturbances and destruction, including window damage. But with the right tools, like high-performance windows from Spotless & Seamless, you can be prepared and protect your home. Our team of certified and trained home exteriors professionals is ready to help you add safety and value to your home. Contact us today to learn about window replacement options.

The colder weather is well on its way. You can feel the chill in the air and see the barrenness of the season through any window in your home. Though these portals to the outside will likely be closed up for a while, be sure they get the TLC they need to keep your home toasty warm. These hints for winter window care might be helpful.

Clean

Dirt and other debris often gets trapped in window tracks. This prevents the windows from closing properly and tightly.

Keep your windows clean to make sure they’re doing their best job to maintain comfortable indoor temps. Vacuum the screens, edges, and tracks to remove any grime or other elements that may hinder a secure seal.

Inspect

Look for cracked or chipped glass and repair or replace as needed. Watch for gaps around the frame or the wall where the window sits. If you notice any air leaks or cold drafts, fill them with caulking or apply weatherstripping as a stopper. Check to assure each window readily opens, closes, and locks as designed.

Protect

If you have older windows or detect drafts, consider sealing the windows with plastic insulating film. This simple and inexpensive process, usually done with an at-home kit and a hairdryer, can save a significant amount in utility costs.

Also, condensation buildup on the glass can damage or rot wood window frames. Keep air moving across your windows by arranging vents and fans for directional flow and prevent moisture development.

Replace

Perhaps your windows simply don’t seal and protect as well as they used to. The best fix for overly damaged or drafty windows may be to replace them as soon as possible. Our home exteriors professionals can assess your situation and suggest the best, most energy efficient options.

The team at Spotless & Seamless hopes these hints for winter window care will help keep you and your family cozy this season. If you have questions or need to replace your windows, contact us today to learn more or request an estimate.

Regular maintenance check-ups are useful for keeping just about anything – or anyone – in stable working order. This includes your house. Inspecting your home’s windows can help reveal any issues that need to be addressed before outside temperatures plummet. Stay one step ahead with these tips for late-summer window care.

Clean More Than the Glass

Standard household chores usually involve cleaning windows. Be sure to clean the non-glass areas as well. Dirt, dead insects, and other debris can collect in the sill or track and prevent an adequate seal, allowing conditioned air to escape. Check these areas thoroughly and clear them with a vacuum hose or soft brush, as needed.

Examine the Frame

A good coating of paint or stain can shield window frames from the harsh weather elements. But look for signs of deterioration, such as peeling or chipping, and plan accordingly for repair or replacement.

If the window frame can be repaired, follow these steps:

• Scrape off any loose paint or stain and sand the surface smooth. Take care to avoid scratching the glass.
• Wipe the frame with a rag to remove any dust.
• Prime the surface.
• Apply two coats of new paint or stain.

If you need to replace all or some of your windows, the installation experts at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors can help determine the best option for your home.

Look for Signs of Moisture

Storms or high humidity can cause moisture issues. Keep an eye out for cracked walls or floors or other damage in your home that could be signs of water damage. If you notice water seeping in around your windows, have a professional assess the situation and recommend a solution.

Fix Sticks and Strips

Open and close the windows to determine if any of them slide irregularly or stick. If you notice sticky windows, spray a dry cloth with a silicone-based lubricant and wipe the window tracks. Avoid applying the lubricant directly to the window, as this can be messy and leave a permanent mark.

Additionally, replace any missing or torn weather stripping and secure any pieces that have come loose.

Survey the Seals

Some of your cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter can escape because of poor air seals. Check for old, cracked caulking around your windows, especially in areas of direct sunlight or high-impact rain. Remove any defective caulking and replace it to create a tight seal.

Protect your home and be ready for changing temps with these tips for late-summer window care. Your Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless can answer your questions or discuss repair and replacement options for your home. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Summer is an ideal time for home renovation projects, and maybe a window upgrade is on your to-do list. Two common types have similar hinge-style openings and offer many of the same benefits. Keep reading to find out more about casement and awning windows and how these modern modifications can open the possibilities of function and style.

Casement Windows

Homeowners often install casement windows in main living spaces, such as the family room, kitchen, and dining room. They are ideal for areas in which the window opening is taller than it is wide. Casement windows have hinges on either the left or right side and open with the use of a crank.

Advantages to installing casement windows include:

• Ventilation. Sliding windows open halfway vertically or horizontally, but casement windows open completely to allow for greater ventilation throughout your home.
• Efficiency. These windows have an air-tight seal. When closed they prevent air from seeping into or flowing out of your home, keeping your conditioned air where it should be.
• Effortless operation. No need to push, slide, or reach to open casement windows. Easy-to-use hand cranks are conveniently found at the window base.
• Security. The locking mechanism on these types of windows is encased within the frame for increased security.

Awning Windows

Like casement windows, awning windows have a hinge opening. The windows hinge along the top and open outward from the bottom, like an awning. These types of windows are used for spaces in which the width of the opening is greater than its height. Homeowners choose awning windows for bedrooms, in bathrooms, and above kitchen sinks for many reasons.

Awning windows allow for greater airflow. Because of their design, they can remain open even on a rainy day. The sash prevents rain from coming into your home while the fresh air streams throughout.

Since awning windows are usually smaller in size, they can be placed higher up on walls. This creates added security and privacy while still allowing plenty of natural light and ventilation. Additionally, you have more wall space available for home décor or for placing taller pieces of furniture.

Views from these windows are less obstructed, if at all. The single-sash design makes dividers unnecessary, so all you see is everything when looking out the window.

Awning windows are extremely efficient. They have a weathertight seal that prevents air seepage in or out. Many of them use energy efficient Low-E glass that helps keep heat out during the summer, so your home stays comfortable.

Whichever hinge-style window option you prefer, the home exteriors experts at Spotless & Seamless can help make sure you’re making the best choice for your needs. Contact us for an estimate and let us explain how to open the possibilities of function and style with casement or awning windows.

Want to give your home a bit of added whimsy and charm this summer? Consider a small but unique upgrade that will bring in an abundance of natural light while being both functional and practical. Keep reading to find out how to cultivate character with a garden window.

Unique portal

Garden windows are designed to extend a few inches beyond the edge of your home’s exterior. Encased in glass from every side, these unique portals allow light to shine in from every direction. The bottom panel can serve as a shelf for storage, while adding a middle shelf provides extra space for display.

Adding openness

The addition of a garden window helps open up any room and makes it feel larger. This brighter and welcoming environment can also provide a pleasant and positive energy.

Some homeowners may choose to put a garden window in a home office, adding sunlight and a sense of nature by way of impressive views to the outdoors. In most cases, these types of windows are installed above the kitchen sink. This way, the contents on display are easily accessible, making the idea of a garden window even more appealing.

Multi-purpose

Add quick and easy flavor to home-cooked meals by growing herbs in a kitchen garden window. Keep fresh chives, basil, rosemary, or oregano within arms’ reach and away from backyard garden pests.

With a garden window, you can also grow houseplants year-round to:

• Breathe easier: English ivy and peace lilies naturally help purify and remove mold from the air. Likewise, the Boston fern helps filter airborne toxins.
• Quiet your mind: Geranium plants are pretty, and their scent is thought to promote calmness.
• Help with anxiety: The aroma of lavender helps with relaxation. Additionally, studies have shown that looking at roses creates a sense of comfort.
• Boost your mood: The year-round bloom of an orchid helps increase positive energy.

Furthermore, a garden window provides space for displaying trinkets and collections, for storing books, or for showing off arts and crafts projects.

If you want to bring in more light and add some unique flair to your living space, cultivate character with a garden window. The Twin Cities home exteriors experts at Spotless & Seamless install top-quality windows designed with a weathertight seal. Available in two styles, these windows will maintain their charm for years to come. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Whether you are outside looking in or vice versa, windows are an essential element of your home. Residential windows usually last 15 to 20 years, and maybe some of the ones in your home need replacing. Spotless & Seamless Exteriors offers a full range of customized window solutions, depending on your specific needs. Today, we will look at the ways both you and your home can benefit from double-hung windows.

What are double-hung windows?

A sash is the part of a window that holds the glass panes together and slides up and down or side to side. Double-hung windows have one frame with two stacked sashes, each with the capability of moving from the top down or the bottom up so that both can be open at the same time.

Double-hung windows usually are more expensive up front. However, this type of window is one of the most popular and functional choices for homeowners for several reasons.

What do double-hung windows offer?

Better ventilation. Increase airflow in any room by installing a double-hung window. They are extremely advantageous in rooms that retain moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Having both sashes open at the same time forces warm air out through the upper sash and brings cool air in through the lower sash. Adjusting each of the openings allows you to find that perfect temperature for your comfort level.

Cleaning convenience. Usually the best way to wash windows is from the outside. The chore can be difficult for upper-level windows. But double-hung windows have an extra feature for cleaning convenience. Both sashes slide up and down for easy access to hard-to-reach areas. In addition, the panes slant inward to make cleaning the outside of the windows from inside your home a simple reality.

Energy efficiency. When properly installed by a qualified installation team like our experts at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors, double-hung windows can save energy on cooling your home over time. Our windows are designed with Ply Gem Low-E, or low-emittance, glass that allows heat from the sun to penetrate but sends radiant heat waves back toward their source. This process helps warm your home in the winter and keep it cool in the summer.

If you’re looking to replace some or all the windows in your home, the Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless are here to assist throughout the process. We can go over the options that will work best for your needs and even discuss how you and your home can benefit from double-hung windows. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Spotless & Seamless Exteriors, a Maple Grove siding contractor, is the exclusive Twin Cities provider of United States Seamless^® Steel Siding products.

What is Seamless Steel Siding?

Maintenance-free seamless steel siding is the most durable exterior siding product available today. Made from multiple layers of finish adhered to a galvanized steel core, the weather-resistant siding delivers a consistent color application and the texture and grain of wood.

The siding is manufactured on-site, custom-fit to the exact length of your home. This eliminates unsightly seams and splices for a smooth, beautiful look. Unlike vinyl siding, steel is non-toxic, fire-resistant, and can be recycled.

Spotless & Seamless Exteriors offers a wide variety of color and profile choices for an exterior that best suits your personal style, including these exclusive U.S. Seamless collections:

• Platinum Collection – An inspiring color palette to fit any style.
• Mountain Cedar Collection – The look of real stained cedar in seamless steel.
• Northwoods Collection – A rustic log cabin look without the time-consuming up-keep of real wood.

Why Choose Seamless Steel Siding?

There are many benefits to choosing seamless steel siding, whether you are remodeling or building a new home, including:

• Various color and style choices for siding, accent siding, soffit, fascia, and trim accessories.
• Stain-resistant, maintenance-free finish.
• Exclusive finish technology that protects against excessive fading and chalking and improves your home’s energy efficiency.
• Limited lifetime warranty against fading and chalking.
• The beautiful look of wood with the strength of steel, year after year.
• Added home value.

Why Choose Spotless & Seamless Exteriors?

Spotless & Seamless Exteriors is your local siding contractor. We live and work in the Twin Cities, and we understand the needs of homeowners in the area. Whether you are building a new home, have recently experienced storm or hail damage and need repair, or it’s time to refresh the look and feel of your home’s exterior, count on the steel siding experts of Spotless & Seamless Exteriors. We have the knowledge and experience to help with any of your home exterior remodeling needs, from seamless steel siding and gutters to roofing, windows, and doors.

Combine the beauty of genuine wood with the durability and convenience of maintenance-free seamless steel siding. Contact Minnesota siding contractor Spotless & Seamless Exteriors to learn more.