Many Central Texans are letting in the light this summer by replacing or expanding windows in their homes. These remodeling projects not only increase Vitamin D levels, they often offer valuable energy-efficiency and lower energy costs.

In Austin’s landscape of older, character-filled homes, many homeowners strive to upgrade their homes while maintaining the house’s original flavor. According to Steve Melton, manager of Marvin Windows Planning Center, a BMC West company, they offer many options in the window arena. “The new Marvin Windows and Doors Ultimate Replacement Casement windows are designed specifically for remodeling purposes,” he says. “They install easily as a frame-in-frame insert because the entire window doesn’t have to be removed. The versatile narrow jamb size makes it a perfect replacement solution, especially for old wood windows.” In addition to the ease of installation, these windows rotate inward, allowing both sides of the glass to be cleaned from the inside.

As energy costs increase, BMC West is providing homeowners with more energy-saving solutions. Triple glazing glass inserts with LoE² coatings minimize drafts, water and dust.

They selectively filter the sun’s rays in the summer and reduce heat loss during the winter. “While letting in the light is great, some people living on the lake might choose glass that cuts the glare from the water by filtering out some of the light,” said Melton.

Enlarging smaller, older homes is another common trend Melton has witnessed in the Austin market. “Many people love the look of older homes but want to gain more square footage,” said Melton. “BMC West can assist in this expansion by coordinating with the architect or designer to help create the most energy-efficient window and door design. It might seem like an extra step, but it will save the homeowner time and money in the future.”

Peter L. Pfeiffer, FAIA, principal of Barley & Pfeiffer Architects, known for incorporating energy-efficient architectural engineering, said BMC West is renown for supplying higher quality building materials to higher quality builders. “Window replacement is one of the top five ways to make a house energy-efficient,” he says. “BMC West’s salespeople always provide my clients with a myriad of options, create accurate orders and follow up on their work. I’ve personally utilized their services since 1984, and wouldn’t go anywhere else.” 
 

BMC West is located at a new showroom that is located at 11212 Metric Blvd in north Austin. Visit them online at www.bmcwest.com or call them at 512-977-7440.

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