TALLAHASSEE, FL – Attorney General Bill McCollum today issued a consumer advisory warning Floridians about window film companies that have sold or are selling products to residential homeowners as “hurricane protection.” The implied benefits leave homeowners with a false sense of security, and ultimately very vulnerable to the destructive forces of hurricane winds and flying debris.
Through information gathered from the International Hurricane Protection Association (IHPA), investigators have determined that aggressive sales tactics may have misled some homeowners to believe the hurricane protection for windows has been approved for residential as well as commercial use, when in reality the film protection advertised has only been approved for commercial use. The Florida Building Code compliant forms of hurricane protection contain no approval(s) for film applied to a residential structure. The consumer must be aware that passing some but not all testing does not qualify a product for approval.
Purportedly, some window film companies are also falsely claiming that by purchasing the window film for residential use, the homeowner will be eligible for an insurance discount. In reality, the insurance industry may not recognize this discount because the window film does not meet the standards for use in a residential home.
Recently, the International Window Film Association (IWFA) has began issuing manufacturer and dealer alerts in an effort to make sure companies are adhering to proper business procedures. While most members are following proper advertising and sales practices, some are not. Additionally, not all film manufacturers are part of the IWFA, therefore they are not held to the same standards.
Attorney General McCollum offers the following recommendations to consumers to avoid falling victim to dealers who may be misrepresenting the film’s capabilities:
· Ask to see the product approval and the corresponding number;
· Go to www.floridabuilding.org and/or www.miamidade.gov/buildingcode/ to assure that the number supplied is verifiable;
· Check with your local building department. Most building departments require a permit to install hurricane protection; and
· Report any company that is making fraudulent claims about window film.
Consumers who believe they may be victims of fraud may contact the Attorney General’s fraud hotline at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226) or file an online complaint at http://myfloridalegal.com.
Betterliving by Majors Home Improvement | Pensacola Sunrooms
Pensacola sunrooms - Customer Testimonials regarding BetterLiving Sunrooms. Add new living space today with a new sunroom. Sunrooms bring the outdoors inside regardless of inclement weather and biting bugs.
How to Replace Your Windows for Energy and Tax Savings - Pensacola windows
There may be a window in your home that is old and drafty, or even falling apart. You may have a window that sticks, or one that you have to prop open. You’ve tried caulking, taping, driving screws into that old window but there is nothing that you can do to fix it. It is probably time to give up on fixing that old window and consider a replacement.
If you have one old window, chances are you have others. These windows can be robbing your house of energy making it hard for you keep your house at the right temperature in either summer or winter. Since windows can account for fifty percent of a home’s heating and cooling needs this wasted energy can equal a lot of wasted money on utility bills.
Now may be the best time to replace your windows for more than one reason. The weather outside is mild in most of the country, so opening up large holes in the side of your house will not create any major discomfort during the operation. Plus, the government is offering tax credits for installing energy efficient windows. These tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year so get your money while the gettin is good!
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides tax credits for homeowners who improve the energy efficiency of their homes including the installation of new windows. A window’s measure of efficiency is based on how well it keeps the outside out and the inside in. Tax credit eligible windows must meet minimum criteria of efficiency known as the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain coefficient (SHGC). The U-Factor measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping and the rating scale ranges from .20 to 1.20. The lower the number the greater the window can resist heat flow and the better its insulating value. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a window blocks heat from the sunlight while letting in the visible light. The SHGC rating scale ranges from 0 to 1. The lower the SHGC the less solar heat can get through.
To reach tax credit levels both the U-Factor and the SHGC must be equal to or less than .30. Each window you buy should have an energy-performance label on it supplied by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). This is the only rating council recognized by the federal government when issuing tax credits. You can check out energystar.gov for more information on qualifying windows and how you can go about getting your credit.
The next big question is whether or not you should attack this project yourself. Watching a pro put in a window looks easy, but there is a lot more to it than meets the eye. If you have never put in a new window before, replacing all the windows in your house by yourself is asking for trouble. Replacing one window may be within the grasp of most do-it-yourselfers, but swapping out a dozen or more becomes a huge project. Where will you store the windows when you buy them? How will you dispose of all the old windows? Do you really have the time to finish the job once you start? For Pensacola windows replacement consult with a professional licensed contractor in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
A seasoned professional window installer can replace all the windows in a typical home in just one or two days. They can guarantee their work and handle all the purchasing, disposal, and paperwork for permits if necessary. You may be surprised just how inexpensive it is for a pro to do the work. If your time and/or skills are limited, hiring a pro is the way to go.
When hiring a pro always get three estimates and get everything in writing. This includes start and finish dates, the brand, type, efficiency levels of the windows, and the total cost of the job. Never pay in full up front and don’t make final payment until the job is 100% complete.
If you are confident with your skills and want to give it a go yourself here is an idea of what you are in for and some things to keep in mind when replacing your own windows.
Before you begin, check with the local building codes to see what types of windows may be required, such as impact resistant or tempered glass, and whether or not you are required to pull a permit to do the work.
Essentially, when installing a replacement window you will be removing the old window sashes and the tracks they run on, leaving only the window’s jamb. The new window will slide into place from the inside and secured to the old jamb. It is important that the window fits comfortably inside this jamb.
This is where most people make mistakes. Sometimes it is hard to tell how big the new window should be, and it is necessary to delicately remove the interior trim of the window to get an accurate measurement. If you buy a window that is even slightly too small for the opening and it leaves gaps, you’ll end up with same or even worse drafts than the old window. If you buy a window that is too big for the opening the window can stick or not open at all.
If the jamb is damaged and needs to be replaced it may impact the exterior finishes of the home such as the siding or trim. This is a situation that would require more time and skill on your part, but one that a pro can easily handle.
The width of the jamb should be measured at the top, middle, and bottom. The height is also measured in three places. Take the smallest measurement of height and width and subtract ¼ inch. Ideally, this will give you the size of the replacement window you need to buy.
Replacement windows
are different than new construction windows. Replacement windows are designed to slide right into the existing window jamb from the inside of the house. New construction windows come with a nailing flange and are designed to be put in from the outside of the house into an opening without a jamb.
Don’t be surprised if you have to custom order your replacement windows. This process can take a few weeks, and most custom order windows are not returnable. Never pull out the old window until you have the new window in hand. You don’t want to have a piece of plywood on your house covering a hole for a few weeks while you wait for your window to arrive.
To remove the old window you have to remove the small stop trim on the sides of the window that hold the sashes in. Remove these carefully as you will be using them again later. With the trim removed you should be able to pull the sashes out. If they are connected to the wall by a weight, cut the cord or disconnect the chain and let the weight drop into the wall. You won’t need it any longer. Remove the tracks that held the sashes in place and clean the jamb of any debris.
If all is in your favor, the new window is ready to go in. Set the bottom of the window on the jamb and tilt the window into place. Push it all the way into the opening until it is seated against the stop trim on the outside. Check that the window is sitting level in the jam. It may be necessary to use small shims to make sure the window is sitting level. Measuring the window diagonally from corner to corner and make sure the measurements are the same. This will insure the window is square and will operate properly.
Screw the window into the jamb according to the manufacturer’s specifications and seal the window into the jamb with caulk, both inside and out, to prevent drafts or leaks. Replace the small stop trim to finish the job.
It sounds easy in theory, but there are dozens of things that could pop up when replacing windows that can make the job quite challenging. Start with one window to test your skill. Don’t bite off more than you can chew and attempt to replace all your windows yourself right off the bat if you have never done it before. It could end up costing you double if you have to hire a pro to fix your mistakes.
About the author: Jason Gurskis is a licensed home improvement contractor based in Mystic Island, New Jersey dedicated to making homes more comfortable, durable, and energy efficient.
Published FoxNews.com
How To Select The Most Qualified Home Inspector
Looking to buy a new home?
Buying a place where you will live for many years can fill you with anticipation and excitement. Now you've finally found the home that is just right for you.
You've walked through the place, probably more than once, and everything looks perfect. But this could be the largest investment of your life to date. Is your roof up to par? Do you require window replacement? You need to be sure.
You need a home inspection. Today, it's required by most lenders before the deal is closed, but who do you choose to do it?
Your real estate agent can provide several names for your perusal. Here are some questions to ask when interviewing them.
* Certifications: Check for affiliations such as those from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO).
* Experience in building: The inspector has to be able to look at a wall, for example, and know how it's put together. Many home construction features are hidden from view.
* Experience as a home inspector: Check how long he or she has been in the business. Experience, training and insight are required for a thorough inspection.
* Ask to see their typical inspection plan and checklist. It should have space for written details and advice.
* What types of equipment will be used? Cutting-edge inspectors use more than a ladder and flashlight. They may bring electrical circuit analyzers, a carbon monoxide and fuel gas analyzer, a digital moisture meter and a digital camera to document their findings.
The report should contain a detailed picture of the house on the day of the inspection. It should itemize major components and their condition.
It should include a listing of items in need of normal maintenance or attention. And the report must list major repair items, any defect that could present a significant expense to repair and estimated repair costs.
When choosing, don't pick the cheapest inspector. For about $50 more, you could get a more complete picture of the property.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. Specializing in Replacement Windows, Sunrooms & Enclosures, Screen rooms and Patio Covers, Entry Doors, Vinyl Siding, and Fabric Awnings – Majors Home Improvement is the local home improvement company of choice for Northwest Florida and South Alabama.
Buying a place where you will live for many years can fill you with anticipation and excitement. Now you've finally found the home that is just right for you.
You've walked through the place, probably more than once, and everything looks perfect. But this could be the largest investment of your life to date. Is your roof up to par? Do you require window replacement? You need to be sure.
You need a home inspection. Today, it's required by most lenders before the deal is closed, but who do you choose to do it?
Your real estate agent can provide several names for your perusal. Here are some questions to ask when interviewing them.
* Certifications: Check for affiliations such as those from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO).
* Experience in building: The inspector has to be able to look at a wall, for example, and know how it's put together. Many home construction features are hidden from view.
* Experience as a home inspector: Check how long he or she has been in the business. Experience, training and insight are required for a thorough inspection.
* Ask to see their typical inspection plan and checklist. It should have space for written details and advice.
* What types of equipment will be used? Cutting-edge inspectors use more than a ladder and flashlight. They may bring electrical circuit analyzers, a carbon monoxide and fuel gas analyzer, a digital moisture meter and a digital camera to document their findings.
The report should contain a detailed picture of the house on the day of the inspection. It should itemize major components and their condition.
It should include a listing of items in need of normal maintenance or attention. And the report must list major repair items, any defect that could present a significant expense to repair and estimated repair costs.
When choosing, don't pick the cheapest inspector. For about $50 more, you could get a more complete picture of the property.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. Specializing in Replacement Windows, Sunrooms & Enclosures, Screen rooms and Patio Covers, Entry Doors, Vinyl Siding, and Fabric Awnings – Majors Home Improvement is the local home improvement company of choice for Northwest Florida and South Alabama.
Majors Home Improvement Ranks 140th in Remodeling’s Top 550 National List
Majors Home Improvement is named for the prestigious distinction of top 550 Replacement Contractors nation-wide.
Pensacola, FL (September 8, 2010) – Majors Home Improvement, a leading Milton, FL-based home improvement company specializing in sunrooms and vinyl replacement windows and doors, has been ranked 140th place among Replacement Contractors in the United States by Remodeling 550 which lists and rates the largest national remodeling and home improvement companies.
Ranking higher on the list than any other replacement contractor or remodeling firm in the Greater Pensacola area, Majors Home Improvement improved seven places over its 2009 ranking of 147th.
“Our primary goal is to create lifelong customers, and this award reflects our commitment to that goal,” said Mike Majors, President of Majors Home Improvement. “Strong customer relationships are the key to promoting growth in a challenging economy. Take care of your customers, and they will take care of you.”
Based on residential remodeling revenue, the Remodeling 550 is a list of the largest remodeling and home improvement companies in the U.S. Data for the 550 is based on a survey jointly developed by Remodeling, its sister publication Replacement Contractor, and Specpan, a consultancy and business data collection provider. Additional information was obtained through survey mailings, phone calls, and public information sources.
About Majors Home Improvement
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. Specializing in Replacement Windows, Sunrooms & Enclosures, Screen rooms and Patio Covers, Entry Doors, Vinyl Siding, and Fabric Awnings – Majors Home Improvement is the local home improvement company of choice for Northwest Florida and South Alabama.
For more information, visit www.majorshomeimprovement.com
Thinking About New Replacement Windows?
Check out our new Squidoo Page for Window Replacement. We have compiled a list of articles, videos and other pertinent information that may be of interest to you.
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
Majors Home Improvement Earns High Customer Recommendation Rating In GuildQuality Surveys
Majors Home Improvement, a leading Pensacola door and window replacement contractor who specializes in sunroom construction, has achieved a 99% Customer Recommendation rate through GuildQuality's independent customer surveying and performance rating service.
Pensacola, FL September 1, 2010
Majors Home Improvement, a full service sunroom and vinyl replacement window remodeling contractor in the Greater Pensacola, FL area, has achieved a Customer Recommendation Score of 99% through GuildQuality’s customer satisfaction surveying and performance reporting service. The real-time feedback service allows customers to relate their service by giving a thumbs up or down among other satisfaction-oriented criteria. Majors Home Improvement earned the rating after accumulating over 100 completed surveys by phone and email.
“In light of these difficult economic years, it’s reassuring to know that everyone at Majors Home Improvement remains committed to providing an unsurpassed customer service experience,” said Mike Majors, President of Majors Home Improvement. “Happy customers are the lifeblood of our business. Lifelong customers and word of mouth referrals are simply priceless, regardless of the national economic outlook.”
“Majors Home Improvement is known as a leading sunroom builder and window replacement contractor in the region,” said Geoffrey Graham, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of GuildQuality. “The company’s track-record and focus on delivering outstanding customer service makes them an ideal fit for our network.”
About Majors Home Improvement
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. Specializing in Replacement Windows, Sunrooms & Enclosures, Screenrooms and Patio Covers, Entry Doors, Vinyl Siding, and Fabric Awnings – Majors Home Improvement is the local home improvement company of choice for Northwest Florida and South Alabama.
For more information, visit www.majorshomeimprovement.com or contact.
About GuildQuality
GuildQuality provides customer satisfaction surveying and performance reporting for over 500 homebuilders, remodelers, and replacement contractors in North America. GuildQuality collects feedback directly from homeowners and reports back to the building professional through a web-based service. GuildQuality achieves a 70% response rate to its surveys, which includes comment-rich qualitative feedback in addition to quantitative ratings.
For more information, visit GuildQuality.
# # #
Pensacola, FL September 1, 2010
Majors Home Improvement, a full service sunroom and vinyl replacement window remodeling contractor in the Greater Pensacola, FL area, has achieved a Customer Recommendation Score of 99% through GuildQuality’s customer satisfaction surveying and performance reporting service. The real-time feedback service allows customers to relate their service by giving a thumbs up or down among other satisfaction-oriented criteria. Majors Home Improvement earned the rating after accumulating over 100 completed surveys by phone and email.
“In light of these difficult economic years, it’s reassuring to know that everyone at Majors Home Improvement remains committed to providing an unsurpassed customer service experience,” said Mike Majors, President of Majors Home Improvement. “Happy customers are the lifeblood of our business. Lifelong customers and word of mouth referrals are simply priceless, regardless of the national economic outlook.”
“Majors Home Improvement is known as a leading sunroom builder and window replacement contractor in the region,” said Geoffrey Graham, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of GuildQuality. “The company’s track-record and focus on delivering outstanding customer service makes them an ideal fit for our network.”
About Majors Home Improvement
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. Specializing in Replacement Windows, Sunrooms & Enclosures, Screenrooms and Patio Covers, Entry Doors, Vinyl Siding, and Fabric Awnings – Majors Home Improvement is the local home improvement company of choice for Northwest Florida and South Alabama.
For more information, visit www.majorshomeimprovement.com or contact.
About GuildQuality
GuildQuality provides customer satisfaction surveying and performance reporting for over 500 homebuilders, remodelers, and replacement contractors in North America. GuildQuality collects feedback directly from homeowners and reports back to the building professional through a web-based service. GuildQuality achieves a 70% response rate to its surveys, which includes comment-rich qualitative feedback in addition to quantitative ratings.
For more information, visit GuildQuality.
11 Things That You Should Know Before Buying A Sunroom
Do higher gas prices and clogged highways have you spending more time at home? Do you wish you had a great space for your kids and their friends to hang out? If you've had the idea to turn your deck or patio into that wonderful sunroom addition, now is a great time to add a sunroom. There are many different designs and decisions to make so here is a list of some of things you may want to consider before you buy. Not all sunroom dealers and manufacturers are the same!
Here are 11 things that you should know before buying a sunroom, along with how Majors Home Improvement sunrooms answers these concerns.
1. SEE THE SUNROOM
Ask if the contractor if you can see full size models. Seeing an actual sunroom can give you a sense of the different designs and decorating ideas. Ask if the contractor has a display home where you can see their finished work on someone's home, or request to see some pictures of sunrooms of previous customers.
2. COMPARE THE COST AND VALUE OF A SUNROOM
Make sure they offer a free, no obligation consultation - measuring at your home to provide you with an exact cost for your project. Consultants can offer great ideas on how to utilize your current deck or patio as a foundation for your sunroom addition. Watch out for contractors who offer sunroom cost over the phone. This can hide the true cost of a sunroom project. Scheduling an appointment will be the only true way to be sure you can compare the sunroom cost and value of each product before selecting a sunroom company.
3. ASK ABOUT UL® APPROVAL
Would you live in a home where the electric system was not UL approved? Be sure the sunroom has UL approved wiring systems. Electrical raceways should not only be safe but they shouldn’t interfere with the sunroom décor. Watch for contractors who only offer electric as an afterthought by using awkward surface mount electrical boxes and conduit to run wiring and mount outlets.
4. CHECK THE ROLLER WHEELS ON WINDOWS AND DOORS
When building a sunroom, the sunroom windows and doors are an important centerpiece to the room’s decor. The quality of the windows and doors not only provides the outdoor feel but they’re a key a factor in a fully insulated sunroom that allows you to entertain for four seasons. To maintain durability, it's the rollers that keep the windows and doors operation smooth for the long term. Steel rollers on stainless steel tracks are the best system for heavy windows and doors. Be sure the rollers are covered under the warranty.
5. WHAT ABOUT ENERGY STAR®?
ENERGY STAR is a national program that rates the energy efficiency of consumer products. You’ll hear the term four seasons sunroom used frequently and it refers to sunrooms designed for year round heating and cooling. These sunroom designs are eligible to earn the ENERGY STAR. If you are considering a four season sunroom, be sure the windows and doors are ENERGY STAR qualified in all 50 states.
6. ASK ABOUT INSURANCE
Workers compensation insurance is a big expense that many contractors don't want to absorb, so they cut corners by hiring sub-contractors to do the installation. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you could bear the liability and the original sunroom cost presented by the contractor becomes a huge loss.
7. SCREENS SHOULD BE GLARE FREE
Many companies will show you pictures of sunrooms and screened porch photos that have fiberglass screens. Black aluminum screens minimize the obstruction of your outdoor view, and are stronger than fiberglass screens.
8. CHECK OUT THE HANDLES
Your sunroom will get lots of use, so the door handles should be strong and easy to use. Color matched handles with mortise locks look better - and last longer. Screen handles should be full size and well fastened.
9. ASK IF SUB-CONTRACTORS WILL BE USED ON THE CONSTRUCTION
If so, find out how and what part of the work will they do. If sub-contractors are used for specialty work on your installation, be sure they are fully insured and that your sunroom company will stand behind their work. Using installers whose only job is building a sunroom helps ensure that the sunroom cost doesn’t begin to inflate.
10. BE SURE YOU GET THE RIGHT PERMITS AND THE NECESSARY INSPECTIONS
Identify what permits will be required and how they will be processed. Find out who will schedule the inspections required by your local building department.
11. WHAT TYPE OF WARRANTY IS INCLUDED?
How long is the labor guarantee, and what does it include? Ask about the Manufacturer's Warranty, and who stands behind it!
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. We are proud to be the local home improvement company of choice for the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast. Majors Home Improvement is proud to be a dealer of Betterliving Sunrooms. "Not all sunrooms are created equal!"
Hurricane Shutters FAQ
Q: Should I tape my windows when a hurricane threatens?
A: NO! It is a waste of effort, time, and tape. It offers little strength to the glass and NO protection against flying debris. After the storm passes you will spend many a hot summer afternoon trying to scrape the old, baked-on tape off your windows (assuming they weren't shattered). Once a Hurricane Warning has been issued you would be better off spending your time putting up shutters over doors and windows.
Q: Should I put shutters over my doors?
A: Obviously sliding glass doors, french doors or any door with considerable glass in it should be protected. Some double doors or garage doors should either be shuttered or reinforced. In Hurricane Andrew many of these type doors gave way.
Q: Why should I get hurricane shutters?
A: People who live in coastal counties from Texas to Maine, and those in other hurricane prone areas, such as most of the Florida peninsula, will find shutters an excellent investment for protecting their lives and property. They protect against wind and wind-borne debris. These shutters protect not only the windows or doors they cover, but also possessions and people inside the building. Once a window or door has been breeched by hurricane winds tremendous pressure is brought to bear on interior walls and upward pressure on the building's roof. This can lead to roof failure which exposes the entire contents of the building to the storm. Shutters are a first line of defense against the hurricane. Much of the damage and building failure in Hurricane Andrew could have been prevented by well installed hurricane shutters over windows and doors.
Q: Why should I bother with shutters if I live in an evacuation zone?
A: Shutters will protect your house and possessions from wind damage whether you are there or not. If the storm surge should reach your home then the shutters won't protect against the flood of water. But not every place in the evacuation zone will flood. You should take every reasonable precaution to protect your property.
Q: What are the best kind of shutters?
A: The best kind are those that are affordable, are easy to install, and offer the greatest protection. Which of these properties is most important to you depends on individual circumstances. For a disabled or elderly person it may be ease of installation with either an automatic closing mechanism or accordion type shutters. For those with limited incomes plywood shutters may be the only affordable option. For most people the best compromise would be steel panels, which offer good protection, but are expensive and take effort to install. Aluminum panels are lighter and easier to install, but offer less protection and may not meet the building code for your area.
Which ever type you decide on it is important to remember that shutters are only as good as the quality of their installation. Ensure that the shutters or their anchors are installed by qualified workmen and that quality materials that meet the building code for your area are used.
Q: What about the plastic film and shatter resistant windows I've heard about?
A: Although these are remarkable products that are being improved every year, they are no substitute for shutters. If you have windows that for some reason, such as access, can't be shuttered then you may wish to consider using the film or installing the shatter resistant glass.
Remember that the film only protects the glass. The frame is still under pressure and the whole window could fail. Windows with these treatments will still suffer damage from the impact of debris and may have to be replaced after a storm, whereas a shutter would take most or all of the energy of such an impact. Films and special glasses also might not meet the building code for your area.
Q: How do I choose an installation company I can trust?
A: The same way you go about choosing any company that performs a service. Make sure they are licensed, get references, and then check the references. Ask your neighbors and friends about who installed their shutters and if they had any complaints or recommendations. Check out a company with the Better Buisness Bureau, your local licensing authority, or contractor accociation.
Q: When is the best time to get my shutters installed?
A: The best time to have shutters installed is when the house is built so they can be a part of the design. If you own a house without shutters have them installed as soon as is pracitcal. Keep in mind that the beginning of hurricane season may be a busy time for most installation companies. Do NOT wait until a Hurricane Watch is issued for your area.
At the start of each hurricane season you should test out your shutters. For permanently installed shutters try closing each one to make sure they work smoothly and lock tight. For panels and plywood shutters try a couple of windows and doors to ensure the hardware works and check the time you need to complete the job. Check all panels for warpage or other damage which could compromise its integrity. Repair any problems at this time so that everything is ready when a storm threatens.
When a Hurricane Watch is issued for your area check all mechanisms and hardware again, and maybe pre-install the more difficult shutters. If you live in an evacuation zone and it will take 2 or 3 hours to complete your shutter installation, you may want to start during the Watch phase. If you are not in an evacuation zone you should time your installation early in the Warning phase so that you are not struggling with panels during high winds.
Q: What if I can't afford commercial shutters?
A: The least expensive, effective method of protecting windows is probably using plywood. The key to plywood shutters is thickness and installation. Use at least 5/8 inch exterior grade plywood, it makes the shutters heavier but safer. They should be cut to fit inside the window frame, installed prior to hurricane season, marked for which window they are made for, and stored with their hardware, preferably in a dry location. Heat and moisture over time will warp plywood, and a good fit is essential to their effectivness. For full instructions on how to make these shutters click here.
If even these shutters seem too expensive consider making them for two or three windows at a time, starting with the most vulnerable. After a few years you will have your whole house ready.
Q: Can condominium associations prohibit shutters?
A: The short answer in Florida is NO. Chapter 718 of Florida Statutes of the Comdominium Act (1991) permits each board of administration to adopt specifications as to color, style, etc., but all specifications "shall comply with the applicable building code". The Florida statutes further state "... a board shall not refuse to approve the installation or replacement of hurricane shutters conforming to the specifications adopted by the board."
SOURCE: NOAA
---------------------
Majors Home Improvement is a fully licensed contractor who is a member of the NAHB and BBB (with an A+ rating). Call today for a FREE estimate.
Hurricane Shutters Buyers Guide
There are a host qualified hurricane protection products for your home. Each of the listed options below meets current Florida Building Code (FBC) standards, and can also satisfy insurance requirements. FBC is in most aspects similar to the International Building Code (IBC) with respect to the testing and approval of hurricane shutters.
Furthermore, the Miami-Dade County norms, often considered the most stringent requirements for hurricane shutters, rely on self-developed testing methods referred to as TAS.
Passing the tests prescribed by the TAS norms is required only for shutters approved for use in the Florida HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zone). FBC will accept testing performed by TAS methods for inclusion in the FBC Database of approved building products. Both Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida maintain web-searchable databases of products approved for use as hurricane protection.
Aluminum Hurricane Panels
Hurricane panels secure to the outside of a house using bolts or tracks. They deliver excellent protection for doors and windows without changing the look of your house.
The panels are measured and cut to cover the opening, and can be affixed to the house with a track or secured directly to the structure. The window will be completely covered when installed, and you can’t see out of the window once they are in place.
This is generally the least expensive type of shutter protection. The panels are lightweight, making them easy to carry, but can be awkward when installing over large openings. When not in use, storm panels should be stored in an easy to reach location.
• Inexpensive
• Removable
• Simple to Store
• Easy to Install
Clear Polycarbonate Hurricane Panels
Also known as Lexan panels, polycarbonate hurricane panels are transparent allowing light through the opening. The panels are heat-formed into a corrugated shape to further increase impact resistance.
Like aluminum hurricane panels, they are lightweight and strong and can be installed vertically or horizontally to meet the needs of the opening. These panels are put up when there is threat of a storm, and taken down after.
The panels are measured and cut to cover the opening, and can be affixed to the house with a track or secured directly to the structure. The window will be completely covered when installed, and you will be able to see out of the window once they are in place.
The panels are lightweight, making them easy to carry, but can be awkward when installing over large openings. You will also need a place to store the panels when they are not in use.
• Lightweight
• Removable
• Simple to Store
• Easy to Install
Accordion Hurricane Shutters
Accordion shutters unfold easily to cover and protect during a storm. When not in use, they remain permanently affixed to your window, which eliminates the need for storage.
They are made from a lightweight aluminum and installed into tracks on the top and bottom that guide the movement of the shutters as well as hold them in place. The top track holds a wheel carriage that adds to ease of movement. These are manually operated.
Accordion hurricane shutters need to be maintained by lubricating and cleaning annually. You won’t need to worry about storage as they are left in place retracted when not in use.
• Can double as a security measure.
• Easy to deploy by one person.
• Eliminate the need for storage.
Bahama Hurricane Shutters
Bahama hurricane shutters resemble decorative shutters that typify the look and feel of a tropical home.
These one-piece hurricane shutters attach directly above your windows. Prop them open to shade the window and lower and secure them the wall for quick storm-ready protection.
• Minimum maintenance.
• Easily operated by one person.
• Aligns with architecture of your home.
• No storage necessary.
Colonial Hurricane Shutters
Colonial hurricane shutters are also permanently affixed to the structure, and considered “decorative”. Like Bahama hurricane shutters, when they are made of material strong enough to withstand hurricane force winds, and installed to meet current building code standards, they serve as viable protection for your home. They can also be easily closed in the event of a storm.
• Minimum maintenance.
• Can be automatically deployed.
• Easily operated by one person.
• Aligns with architecture of your home.
• No storage necessary.
Manual or Electric Roll-Down Hurricane Shutters
Properly installed rolling shutters have minimum impact on the architectural integrity of your property. When not in use, they are stored in an enclosed box above your window. When needed for storm protection, you can manually lower them with crank handles from inside or outside the building or, automatically lower them with a motor, in which case manual overrides are included.
Electric or motorized roll-down shutters are a popular solution for lanai area of a home. They can be installed to easily enclose the entire lanai. In addition to storm protection, rolling shutters function for security, light and sound control and insulation.
• Can be automatically deployed.
• Easily operated by one person.
• Aligns with architecture of your home.
• No storage necessary.
• Excellent theft deterrent.
Impact Resistant Hurricane Windows and Doors
Impact resistant hurricane windows and doors are not considered “shutters”. They are an alternative to shutters that offer full-time protection against the elements, intruders, UV rays and noise. This is generally going to be the most expensive option in hurricane protection.
The benefit of total home replacement of windows and doors with impact resistant products is that you never have to think about it again. Once installed by a qualified, licensed professional your protection is in place 24-7-365.
If your windows and doors need to be replaced, you might give serious consideration to replacing them with impact resistant hurricane windows and doors. The cost of replacing a window or door with a non-impact product and then adding a shutter to meet current codes is very close to replacing the opening with an impact product.
• Always deployed.
• No maintenance.
• Least obtrusive of all protection systems.
• No storage necessary.
Final Considerations
Typically the least expensive option will be the most labor intensive and conversely, the most expensive options will be the most worry-free. Keep in mind that the front of your home has the highest aesthetical priority. You want protection in place that doesn’t detract from the architecture.
The back of your home will take the next level of priority, and typically will be the most expensive area to protect due to the fact that you generally see the most glass in the back. You can generally save a great deal on the back of the home with shutters vs. impact-resistant doors and windows.
The sides of your home usually are the last priority. Although they can’t be seen, it is still vital to protect the openings as they are vulnerable.
Since each application has Florida Building Code approval, your choice should be based on your lifestyle and which product best fits the specific opening. You should consult with a professional licensed building contractor to determine what the best option is for an opening. Each application needs to be installed according to Florida Building Code specifications to meet the requirements of protection, which should satisfy your insurance company as well.
PNJ feature People on the Move - Majors Home Improvement
From staff reports
Majors Home Improvement has been selected by Remodeling magazine to join the Remodeling Big50.
Each year since 1986, the Remodeling Big50 inducts the owners of 50 remodeling companies that have set exceptionally high standards for professionalism and integrity through exemplary business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community or the industry at large.
Remodeling editors, columnists, industry leaders, and the companies themselves make the nominations each year. Winners are selected in these categories: business savvy, fine design, industry impact, market wise, movers and shakers, niches, sales and marketing, and teamwork.
Majors Home Improvement was selected for the teamwork category.
Pensacola News Journal
Majors Home Improvement has been selected by Remodeling magazine to join the Remodeling Big50.
Each year since 1986, the Remodeling Big50 inducts the owners of 50 remodeling companies that have set exceptionally high standards for professionalism and integrity through exemplary business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community or the industry at large.
Remodeling editors, columnists, industry leaders, and the companies themselves make the nominations each year. Winners are selected in these categories: business savvy, fine design, industry impact, market wise, movers and shakers, niches, sales and marketing, and teamwork.
Majors Home Improvement was selected for the teamwork category.
Pensacola News Journal
Up to 14 hurricanes predicted for Atlantic storm season
Up to 14 hurricanes predicted for Atlantic storm season
"(NOAA) forecast 14 to 23 named storms, with 8 to 14 developing into hurricanes, making it one of the most active ever."
"(NOAA) forecast 14 to 23 named storms, with 8 to 14 developing into hurricanes, making it one of the most active ever."
Enter to WIN $10,000 Sweepstakes
Enter to WIN Our $10,000 Home Improvement Sweepstakes. Sign up for our newsletter HERE.
WEAR TV 3 features Majors Home Improvement's Big50 Honor
SEE VIDEO HERE
ESCAMBIA COUNTY - Majors Home Improvement has been selected by remodeling magazine to join the 'Remodeling Big-50.'
The Big-50 Award is presented to companies who set high standards with their business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community.
As you may remember....in 2008... WEAR was awarded a ten thousand dollar grant through Oprah's Big Give project... To support two local agencies: ARC Gateway and United Cerebral Palsy.
The owners of Majors Home Improvement stepped in and matched the grant... Allowing us to give each agency 10,000 dollars cash.
Big-50 winners are featured in May's issue of Remodeling...Which is read nationally by almost 100,000 contractors.
ESCAMBIA COUNTY - Majors Home Improvement has been selected by remodeling magazine to join the 'Remodeling Big-50.'
The Big-50 Award is presented to companies who set high standards with their business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community.
As you may remember....in 2008... WEAR was awarded a ten thousand dollar grant through Oprah's Big Give project... To support two local agencies: ARC Gateway and United Cerebral Palsy.
The owners of Majors Home Improvement stepped in and matched the grant... Allowing us to give each agency 10,000 dollars cash.
Big-50 winners are featured in May's issue of Remodeling...Which is read nationally by almost 100,000 contractors.
REMODELING's 2010 Big50 Profile - Michael Majors
Michael Majors
Majors Home Improvement, Milton, FL
Award category: Teamwork
Speciality: Exterior remodeling
13 years in business
2009 volume: $2.6 million
Staff: 3 office, 10 field
Many companies that specialize in siding and windows are founded by salespeople. Majors Home Improvement, launched by former window and siding installer Mike Majors, is an exception. What Majors saw in the field indicated to him that superior customer service was a huge competitive advantage. “I thought I could do a better job,” he says.
Exemplary service fueled his company’s growth for a while, but after four years he ran up against a problem: he wanted to hire a salesperson but didn’t have the leads. So Majors decided he needed to find key people to help him grow.
Today both his marketing manager and his sales manager have advanced degrees, and both have been with the company for more than five years. “You have to find the right people and take care of them,” Majors says. Forty percent of business originates as repeat or referral, a fact the owner attributes to employees’ willingness to go the extra mile and to incentives that encourage them to do so. “I am going to do the right thing for them and for the customer,” Majors says. “I put my needs and wants last.”
BEST PRACTICES
* Exceptional customer service: Company installers use dropcloths and booties, and salespeople are required to visit the job while it’s in progress.
* A recent collective effort substantially cut company overhead, reducing expenses such as the phone (by 70%) and truck maintenance. Smarter use of marketing dollars reduced that expenditure from 8% of revenue (when it was budgeted for 10%) to 5.4%.
* Having evolved from salesman/installer/secretary to the leader of a capable and efficient team leaves Majors looking for ways to expand his operation, both with new products and new branch locations.
- Jim Cory
REMODELING: http://bit.ly/blRbyv
Majors Home Improvement, Milton, FL
Award category: Teamwork
Speciality: Exterior remodeling
13 years in business
2009 volume: $2.6 million
Staff: 3 office, 10 field
Many companies that specialize in siding and windows are founded by salespeople. Majors Home Improvement, launched by former window and siding installer Mike Majors, is an exception. What Majors saw in the field indicated to him that superior customer service was a huge competitive advantage. “I thought I could do a better job,” he says.
Exemplary service fueled his company’s growth for a while, but after four years he ran up against a problem: he wanted to hire a salesperson but didn’t have the leads. So Majors decided he needed to find key people to help him grow.
Today both his marketing manager and his sales manager have advanced degrees, and both have been with the company for more than five years. “You have to find the right people and take care of them,” Majors says. Forty percent of business originates as repeat or referral, a fact the owner attributes to employees’ willingness to go the extra mile and to incentives that encourage them to do so. “I am going to do the right thing for them and for the customer,” Majors says. “I put my needs and wants last.”
BEST PRACTICES
* Exceptional customer service: Company installers use dropcloths and booties, and salespeople are required to visit the job while it’s in progress.
* A recent collective effort substantially cut company overhead, reducing expenses such as the phone (by 70%) and truck maintenance. Smarter use of marketing dollars reduced that expenditure from 8% of revenue (when it was budgeted for 10%) to 5.4%.
* Having evolved from salesman/installer/secretary to the leader of a capable and efficient team leaves Majors looking for ways to expand his operation, both with new products and new branch locations.
- Jim Cory
REMODELING: http://bit.ly/blRbyv
WSJ.com - The New Rules of Remodeling
This is a good read regarding the current home improvement market: http://on.wsj.com/byBoUq
Majors Home Improvement Wins REMODELING's Big50 National Award
PENSACOLA, FL – MAY 17, 2010 – Majors Home Improvement has been selected by REMODELING magazine to join the REMODELING Big50. The Big50 awards were presented at a gala dinner at the Remodeling Leadership Conference in Alexandria, VA, on May 14, 2010. The 2010 Big50 winners are featured in the May issue of REMODELING, a national trade publication read by more than 80,000 professional remodeling contractors.
Each year since 1986, the REMODELING Big50 inducts the owners of 50 remodeling companies that have set exceptionally high standards for professionalism and integrity through exemplary business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community or the industry at large. Big50 remodelers run successful, often growing, companies of various sizes that have taken the lead in raising industry standards.
The Big50 selection process has become increasingly rigorous in recent years. All 2010 inductees stood up to detailed examinations of their businesses and their books, and they all demonstrated an admirably deft ability to restructure, retrench, and hustle to remain viable in a challenging economic climate.
“This distinction is quite an honor,” says Michael Majors, President of Majors Home Improvement. “This award represents our organization’s shared vision, and we are privileged to be named to this select group of remodelers.”
REMODELING editors, columnists, industry leaders, and the companies themselves make the nominations each year. The editors select the owners of 50 companies that exemplify the best of the industry that year. Winners are selected in these categories: business savvy, fine design, industry impact, market wise, movers & shakers, niches, sales & marketing, and teamwork. Majors Home Improvement was selected for the category of Teamwork.
REMODELING magazine, published by Hanley Wood Business Media, is the leading publication in the home improvement industry. Designed to address the specific concerns of residential remodeling pros, the magazine is both a business tool and an industry leader for a market that topped $300 billion in 2008. See the magazine online at www.remodelingmag.com.
Since 1997, Majors Home Improvement has delivered premium products, quality workmanship and unparalleled service – all at an affordable price. We are proud to be the local home improvement company of choice for Northwest Florida. See us online at www.majorshomeimprovement.com.
# # #
Biz expo adds more fun
Each year the Gulf Breeze Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo and Family Fun Fest expands.
This year, organizers have added Expo Café to the line up of events featured 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the Gulf Breeze Recreation Center. The café will feature local nonprofits serving treats in the theater room while visitors enjoy entertainment, including a fashion show.
The outdoor Family Fest will feature face painting, games, inflatable bounce house, door prizes, and new this year, a dog fly-ball demonstration.
The main focus of the event is to allow area businesses and nonprofits to showcase their goods and services.
"Our goal is: shop local, buy local, support the local economy," said Meg Peltier, president and CEO of the chamber. "A lot of people don't realize how many great businesses we have here in our own backyard."
The indoor and outdoor show features 100 vendors, including Majors Home Improvement, a participant for nearly a decade.
"It's great to have a booth so people can come in with coffee in hand and kick tires and talk to someone about a project they want to do," said Jonathan Wells, Majors' operations manager.
In these economic times, that face time is important, Wells said.
Josie Cotti, vice president of the chamber's membership services, said attendees will find a "broad spectrum" of vendors to chat with.
Among them: Banks, medical and elderly services, health care providers, builders, and cosmetic, sunglass and gift basket vendors.
PNJ
This year, organizers have added Expo Café to the line up of events featured 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the Gulf Breeze Recreation Center. The café will feature local nonprofits serving treats in the theater room while visitors enjoy entertainment, including a fashion show.
The outdoor Family Fest will feature face painting, games, inflatable bounce house, door prizes, and new this year, a dog fly-ball demonstration.
The main focus of the event is to allow area businesses and nonprofits to showcase their goods and services.
"Our goal is: shop local, buy local, support the local economy," said Meg Peltier, president and CEO of the chamber. "A lot of people don't realize how many great businesses we have here in our own backyard."
The indoor and outdoor show features 100 vendors, including Majors Home Improvement, a participant for nearly a decade.
"It's great to have a booth so people can come in with coffee in hand and kick tires and talk to someone about a project they want to do," said Jonathan Wells, Majors' operations manager.
In these economic times, that face time is important, Wells said.
Josie Cotti, vice president of the chamber's membership services, said attendees will find a "broad spectrum" of vendors to chat with.
Among them: Banks, medical and elderly services, health care providers, builders, and cosmetic, sunglass and gift basket vendors.
PNJ
4 Tips for Buying New Replacement Windows
When purchasing replacement windows for your home, you are probably hoping to never be forced to buy new windows ever again. Let's face it. It aint cheap.
So keep these tips in mind when deciphering this hefty investment:
1) Research window manufacturers. Settle on one with positive growth, a solid financial history, and, of course, a comprehensive warranty.
2) Avoid standard size-only windows. No window opening is truly uniform. Although the initial cost outlay will be greater, getting custom windows to fit every opening of your home will pay off in the long run due to increased energy efficiency, plus the finished product will simply look better.
3) All components are not equal. Vinyl should be virgin vinyl, not recycled vinyl, commonly referred to as regrind. Regrind will crack and yellow over time. Many times, this is the very reason why some windows are drastically priced lower than others.
4) Check the label. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)is a non-profit organization who provides unbiased assessments regarding energy performance ratings so consumers can compare different products and make informed product choices. Do not buy any window lacking the NFRC label.
As with any big purchase, the more you know about replacement windows, the better off your buying experience should be.
Good luck!
Big Green Egg Giveaway Winner
Congratulations to Martha Corn of Milton, FL! Martha won Majors Home Improvement's Big Green Egg Newsletter Giveaway.
Thanks to everyone who participated. Stay tuned to this site (and stay registered for the newsletter). There is yet another contest just on the horizon!
For replacement windows, hurricane shutters, sunrooms & screenrooms, and kitchen & bath remodeling - Let Majors Do It!
Customer Service: The New Marketing Craze?
It's a sentiment that many share, "Marketing is the promise one makes in order to get another person to buy something." And, in the land of Home Improvement, there is marketing aplenty. "Buy 3 Windows, Get 1 FREE!" Or, "Call TODAY and we'll double your tax credit!" And my favorite: "Buy your sunroom NOW and enjoy your FREE wicker furniture set TODAY!" Seriously... wicker?
However, in this down economy, less and less conventional marketing can be afforded due to declining revenues. Consequently, the buzz phrase "Customer service is the new marketing" has found a foothold in many business conversations.
And it's completely plausible. Talk is cheap, and no marketer would argue that word of mouth referrals are not a thing to be highly coveted. After all, lead cost is nominal, perhaps a small referral fee to the referrer... Plus, the probability of converting a sale is much better than, say, a Yellow Page prospect.
But does all of this honestly mean that customer service is the NEW marketing? Perhaps when the glitz of TV spots and the glam of magazine spreads are gone, some businesses are only left with the option of re-dedicating themselves to the ideal of treating a customer the right way. Too little too late?
I maintain that a down economy is only part of the reason some companies are currently on hard times. It's the very lack of customer service that has been the primary force for many a downturn. Solid companies with ethical practices are still thriving and marketing even in these uncertain times.
Same-day-only discounts and other high pressure sales gimmicks are usually the harbingers of what is to come after signing a contract with an unscrupulous home improvement outfit. Poor communication, delays in installation and lack of proper service after the sale are certain to follow.
Therefore, it's prudent to inspect all details from the very onset. Request all warranties in writing. Inspect every aspect of the itemized contract (accept nothing scrawled on the back of a business card). And don't be sheepish about requesting customer referrals who can speak on the contractor's behalf.
Customer Service is the new marketing? On the contrary, customer service is the very fundamental aspect of marketing... nothing new about it.
Window Tax Credit and Reading the NFRC Label
It's tax time and it's cold! Therefore, there is no better time to review why it's a good time to buy energy efficient vinyl replacement windows for your home, and get tax credit up to $1,500.
To get in on the energy cost savings, as well as the attractive tax incentives:
* Purchase qualifying windows or doors from Majors Home Improvement, then save your sales receipt and the NFRC/ENERGY STAR label with your tax documents. **
* Have your windows or doors installed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010.
* Claim the tax credit on your federal filing for the 2009 and/or 2010 tax year.
A “qualifying” window or door is one that carries both a U-Factor equal to or less than 0.30 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) equal to or less than 0.30.
HOW TO READ THE NFRC LABEL:
1. Find Your NFRC Label
It comes in the form of a sticker right on the window, itself. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a nonprofit organization who provides energy performance ratings for windows, doors, and skylights. NFRC administers a third party certification and labeling program to provide consumers with verified product rating information.
2. Compare Product Performance
The NFRC label provides standard information on how a window or entryway system performs. NFRC ratings evaluate whole product performance for standard conditions. By reviewing the NFRC label information, consumers can make informed choices. The most important energy ratings are U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.
3. Look For The ENERGY STAR® Label
By meeting certain energy performance criteria a product may receive an ENERGY STAR® Designation. For more information about ENERGY STAR® windows, see www.energystar.gov.
Out of Space?
Is your bathroom too small? Perhaps a bathroom remodeling project is in order? Many older homes simply lack the square footage of today's spacious floor plans. Remodeling that cramped space only makes sense for both aesthetic and practical considerations.
Check the adjoining rooms to determine if you can gain a few square feet by removing a closet or shifting a wall. Make sure to consult with a qualified contractor before attempting any interior demolition. A good bathroom remodeling specialist will be able to determine how and where your bathroom can safely and efficiently be expanded.
In some cases, restructuring the floor plan is not an option. However, simply replacing old fixtures can free up a considerable amount of space. Look to add sleek new door knobs and vanities, and you might find astonishing results. Also, consider switching the traditional bath tub for a space-saving standing corner shower, especially if the room is not a Master Bath.
There are ways to improve any bathroom however big or small. If a tiny bathroom is a problem in your home a little imagination and advice from a bathroom remodeling specialist will allow you to turn tiny into terrific far more easily than you might think.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
