Bring in the Natural Light
Is your office dark and gloomy feeling? We say utilize the Arizona sunshine to the fullest and bring in the natural light. Research done by Professor Alan Hedge at Cornell University in 2017 revealed that workers exposed to more natural light reported a 56% decrease in drowsiness, a 51% drop in eyestrain, and a 63% drop in headaches. 
With those stats, natural light should be at the top of your list to incorporate into your space. Take out the old windows or patio doors that stay covered due to the inefficiency, and install new windows in your office space to bring in light and increase your productivity. While installing windows and patio doors requires remodeling, it’s worth the investment for your health and well-being. 

A Desk Does Matter
When you work from home with a laptop, you can typically work from anywhere, right? But how productive are you really on the couch? Couches are programmed into our society as a place to relax and rest, so we can be working against ourselves when we choose to work on the couch.  For optimal productivity, a dedicated office space with a desk is what you need. But if that’s not an option, try the dining room table or kitchen island where you have the space to stay organized and focused. Get more done in less time by creating the productive space you need to spin your work out proficiently.
 
Create Focus with Organization 
Declutter your workspace by getting organized. Add built-in shelves, bins, and drawers to your home office to create a clean and simple work environment. If your office space is a multi-purpose room, section the room off into work zones, this will naturally give you more consistent focus and make it easier to stay organized.
 
Plants Count
Happiness can be found in small things. We spend a lot of time in our office space, so it makes sense to decorate it to your liking. Bring in small green plants or small meaningful items that bring your joy. Happiness brings more productivity, so why not add those little essential touches to your space.

So whether you are planning a full home office remodel or just some simple upgrades, incorporating a few of these simple tips will make a  difference in your productivity levels. When you are ready to tackle that home office remodel but don't want to DIY it – our professional team is here to help.

​As temperatures start to cool down and the busyness of summertime slows, it's the perfect time to give your outdoor space an upgrade. Whether you are looking to expand your entertaining area by adding in the right patio door, building that outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, or installing new furniture – here are four outdoor living spaces ideas to bring your patio to the next level.

​The Right Patio Doors Makes All the Difference.
The ultimate outdoor living space experience utilizes both indoor and outdoor areas to their full advantage. But how do you do that in a tasteful way that complements both? With multi-slide patio doors. Not only will they bring in more natural light during the winter months and fresh air year-round, but they can seamlessly bring your living spaces together.
 
Multi-sliding doors can be made to fit your home and your lifestyle. With up to 10 panels that slide open and tuck into pockets in the wall, you can utilize your indoor-outdoor living space to the max. Treat yourselves and your guests to the ultimate open concept party: no more cramped spaces, no more stress. 

​Choose Outdoor Furniture that Matches Your Interior
A simple yet creative way to design a cozy and stylish outdoor living space to relax and wash the day's stress away or to entertain guests is with comfy outdoor furniture. Be unique – incorporate sofas, tables, benches, hammocks, and garden chairs. And don't forget the lighting! It can be the one small piece that ties it all together. Whether it's solar lighting, hanging pendant lights, or string lights – the addition can make all the difference.

​Premium Outdoor Kitchen Equals Next Level Grilling 
Love entertaining outdoors? Then an outdoor kitchen is a must. Whether you are smoking meats, grilling burgers, having a potluck, or cooking a gourmet pizza in your pizza oven, the outdoor kitchen can give you more space to serve and seat your guests. 

​Enjoy Your Customized Fireplace or Fire Pit Year-Round
Want to take the standard fire pit to the next level? Create a warm and inviting outdoor living area with an outdoor fireplace. It's the perfect piece that brings any social gathering together. Or up the game on the standard ring fire pit and design a custom fire pit to enjoy year-round. 

Ready to create your ideal outdoor living space or want to learn more about Pella's multi-sliding patio doors? As a Pella® Certified Contractor and remodeling pro we got you covered! You bring your ideas and designs, and we'll build them into reality. Get ready to enjoy those beautiful fall days!

​So you are getting ready to replace your patio door but have a few questions before you start making decisions. We’ve compiled the top four most frequently asked questions about patio door replacement and the answers, so you don’t have to hunt to the far corners of the world wide web or try to get around the robots to talk to a real-life person just to answer a few simple questions. Let’s jump straight into it. 

Are patio doors secure?
Yes, your patio doors can be secure. Pella® patio doors come with a few different door handles and locking mechanisms options. If you want more security than the locking mechanism that comes with the door, here are a few other ways to increase your patio door and home security.

• Install motion-sensor lights by the patio doors to deter potential intruders.
• Upgrade to multipoint locks. 
• Insert a security bar
• Update your vinyl sliding patio door with an integrated foot bolt.
• Check out Pella® Insynctive® Technology. It is a hidden security sensor system that can be controlled from your phone, giving you the ability to keep track of what’s going on at home at all times. 
• Look into a professionally monitored home security system.  

 
Is it possible to replace a hinged door with a sliding patio door?
Yes, we can replace a hinged door with a sliding patio door and vise versa. Our window experts will walk you through the important points that you will need to consider in this situation. Simply swapping out the style of your patio door can be a simple way to refresh your homes appearance and provide a change of pace. 
 
Are patio doors energy efficient?
This depends on a few things: the patio door style, the glass option you choose, and your local climate. As a Pella Certified Contractor and your local neighbor who understands our climate here in northern Arizona, we can help you find the best energy efficient patio door for your needs. 
You can learn more about Pella’s glass options here and learn more about Pella’s patio door style options here.
 
Can I modify my patio door to match my windows?
Yes, you can. We highly recommend sitting down with our window expert so you can see the array of options you have. We can match your patio door to your windows, your home, and your lifestyle.
 
Are you thinking of getting new patio doors? We compiled all the information you need to know about the patio door replacement process, warranty, industry jargon, and installation process here.  Let’s find the perfect patio door replacement for your home today so you can look forward to enjoying those cool fall days that are right around the corner. We do in-home consultations, or you can stop by our showroom to browse Pella’s available options.

​Clean Gutters and Drains
We all know what monsoons are like in northern Arizona. They can bring deluges without warning and only last a short time. Unfortunately, these are the types of storms that cause damage because the water doesn’t have time to soak into the ground. So don’t forget to clean your gutters, drains, and any other draining systems you have before the rains come. This can help prevent thousands of dollars in damage to your roof or to the foundation of your home. 
 
Clean your Chimney 
If you have a chimney, summer is the perfect time to clean it. Get it done and out of the way so you can enjoy your fall and be ready for winter. Plus, it’s a bit of a dirty job, so it’s better done when the roof is dry for safe and easy access. 
 
Inspect the Roof
Roof repair and maintenance go hand in hand. Regular maintenance such as reapplying sealant or replacing damaged shingles can prevent major repairs down the road. If you need a new roof, we recommend calling three to four different companies to make sure you are getting a fair and accurate quote. 
 
Exterior Painting and Siding 
Check your home's siding for extreme weathering, warping, chips, and cracks. Sometimes all you need is to power wash it to bring the exterior of your home back to life, but if there is damaged sections or you need a fresh coat of paint, the project may take a bit more time. You may want to call a professional to tackle these more extensive projects. Either way, doing a yearly inspection can help you catch problems early and save you money in the long run. 
 
Repair or Replace Decking
If you have a deck, now is the time to clean, repair or replace it. Another option to consider is adding a deck shade so you can enjoy summer year-round. 
 
Windows and Doors
Here in Arizona, summer brings extreme heat and thunderstorms. This is the best time to do an energy inspection and start the planning process to upgrade your windows to be more energy-efficient.
 
A few things to check in your energy audit:

• Check all weather stripping for dryness or cracking.
• Check window caulking for any corrosion. 
• Check for leaks and cracks in the glass. This includes condensation between the window panes.
• Check hardware. Make sure windows and doors can open and close smoothly and lock securely. 
• Inspect the frame. Clean window frames and inspect for any warping or water damage. 

 
Clean Your Windows 
While you are taking the time to inspect all your windows and doors, it's a good time to clean your windows to remove pollutants such as dust and pollen that stick to the glass and prevent the natural light from coming in. Bring the cleaning supplies with you while inspecting and make those windows and patio doors shine with a thorough cleaning.

1. ​The best time to clean your windows is when the sun isn’t directly on your windows. This prevents streaking from the water or cleaner drying too fast.
 
2. We recommend a glass cleaner that doesn’t contain ammonia, bleach, or alcohol for both interior and exterior cleaning. These substances leave residue on your windows and can cause dust to cling to the windows. 
 
3. Here is an at-home window cleaner that works really well: mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 10 cups of warm water. 

4. Use a microfiber rag. They absorb a lot of water and will leave your windows clear, shiny, and streak-free. 
 
5. Dry the window thoroughly and wipe the frame and ledge with a separate rag to ensure no streaking on the glass and that the cleaner did not get on wood, vinyl, or fiberglass frames as the cleaner could discolor the finish.
 
There you have it. Your home maintenance list and tips on how to clean your windows. Now all you need to do is get started! If you need any major home repairs or want a pro to inspect your windows and doors, contact us today - we'd be happy to help!

​Are you considering building a Passive Home or net-zero energy home? Then finding high-performance windows that comply with the passive home standards can be difficult. But don't worry, we've got your back. With Pella's Reserve windows and our extensive knowledge of the installation process, your windows are no longer the weakest link in your home. 

​What Is a Passive Home?
A passive home is a highly energy-efficient structure that produces as much energy as it uses within an average climate year. Here is a 90-second video describing the standards of a passive home. 
 
Why Are Windows an Important Part of Passive Homes?
Your home's thermal performance is only as good as your windows. You can spend a lot of time planning and building highly-insulated walls but not reach passive energy with your house because of the quality of your windows. On average, windows are responsible for losing 25%-30% of your heating and cooling energy use. That's a big difference – especially in a passive home. So how can you plug that massive hole in the wall and save energy?
 
Advantage of Passive house certified windows in your home.

• Thermal Comfort – cut out the "pockets of cold air" that develops with lower efficiency windows.
• No temperature swings inside the home.
• Passive House windows don't drop below 62 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
• The window's efficient insulating properties make it less necessary to have heaters near your window area, adding space and design freedom.

 
Choosing the Right Windows Makes All the Difference
Windows in a passive house have to meet specific requirements such as a high thermal insulation value. We recommend Pella's Reserve windows, they are certified by Passive House Institute U.S. (PHIUS) and available in a variety of styles. Not only are you cutting your building's carbon footprint and enhancing your living comfort, but you can make your windows the focal point of your home as well. 

​Passive windows are for all building types.
If you are remodeling an older home, passive windows can be used to lower your energy bill and your home's carbon footprint. Did you know that according to the High Performance Building Coalition - "Buildings use about 40% of the primary energy and 70% of the electricity here in the U.S." Why not lower it as much as you can – no matter what type of home you live in?
 
The bottom line – if you are looking for windows for your new or remodeled home. Passive windows will cut your energy bill down significantly as well as bring thermal comfort to a whole new level so you can live comfortably for years to come. Ready to learn more about Pella's Reserve windows? Contact our window professionals today. We'll walk you through the whole process so you can find the right passive window for your needs.

There's more to the window and door replacement process than just picking a window/door for your home. Whether you're new to the window and door buying world or an experienced veteran, there's no denying that there are a lot of factors to consider. From finding a competent contractor and energy efficiency rating numbers to reading warranty and maintenance specs, there is a great deal of information to research and keep straight. So how do you keep everything together so that you end up getting the windows/doors you want with no regrets? At Triple E, we've cut out all the extra noise for you and compiled our most essential tips every homeowner needs to know when replacing their windows and doors. ​

​What is Thermal Comfort?

Thermal comfort is a concept that refers to a person’s satisfaction with their surrounding temperature. It’s a subjective concept that can’t be measured by a thermometer reading but is instead measured by people communicating how comfortable they are. Essentially, you've reached thermal comfort if you're not too hot and not too cold in a specific space.
 

Why Do We Want Thermal Comfort?
​

• Health and Well-being: Thermal comfort is good for your health. A room with extreme temperature differences on either side of the spectrum can cause stress to people’s immune systems – especially young children, elders, or chronically ill people. The immune system has to work harder to regulate body temperature – whether warming someone up constantly, or cooling them down. Long-term exposure to this puts extra stress on the body.

 

• Productivity: Thermal comfort can affect productivity as well. If you are too warm, you start to feel sluggish and tired. All you can think of is finding a way to cool off. When the room is too cold, you become restless and distracted. Your brain and body are trying to get you to move around so you can warm up. These distractions that come as a result of too hot or too cold of temperatures result in decreased productivity.

 

• Energy Efficiency: Thermal comfort causes you to use less energy heating or cooling your home. This means you'll save money on your electrical bills!

 

How can Homeowners Achieve Thermal Comfort in Their Homes?

If you are remodeling your home and want to achieve thermal comfort, choosing the right replacement windows can make a huge difference in the comfort of your home. Window technology has evolved quite a bit over the last few years. There is an energy-efficient window choice for everyone, from injecting insulated glass systems with inert gasses, to adding extra glass panes. You have more options to ensure a comfortable home if you are building from the ground up. Insulation, heating, and window choices will all impact the thermal comfort in your home.
 
Want more information on thermal comfort and which windows would be the best fit for your home? Chat with our window experts today.

Are you on the fence about replacing your windows and doors because it's hard to find the right time to go through with a project like this? It's a tricky balance to make sure all of the stars align for season, budget, and the time you have available. This is a common frustration for many homeowners. The stress of it all can make replacing windows and doors frustrating and unpleasant. Don't worry – we're here to help!
 
To ease those frustrations, we’ve compiled a few tips to help guide you through it all.

​Replacing Your Windows and Doors Based on Seasons

When it comes to replacing windows and doors in central Arizona, the seasons can play a significant role. Most people choose to schedule the installation process during the mild seasons. However, this means that the mild seasons are usually the busiest for window companies. If you decide to replace windows or doors during the temperate seasons, be sure to schedule early because spaces fill up quickly.

​Choosing the winter or summer months for your home improvement project can certainly have its perks. Window companies tend to offer better discounts and can be more flexible with project timeframes. 
 
Tip: Beware of monsoon season from June to September. While we can replace windows during this time, we recommend replacing any old, broken, or leaky windows beforehand for your safety and security.
 

Replacing Your Windows and Doors Based on Budget
​
Windows and doors are one of those purchases you will typically only have to make once or twice in your lifetime. If you know that you will need to replace your windows in the near future, we recommend doing your research early. Give yourself plenty of time to find out which type of window frames and features you like best. Once you've done this, get 2-3 quotes and base your budget on the research you've done. More often than not, people don’t have a large enough budget for the windows they end up falling in love with and have to settle for less. So don’t forget to give yourself plenty of time to research early, set a budget, and start saving! 
 
Tip: On the off chance that you need to replace your windows right away due to damage or security issues, most window companies offer great financing options to make it simpler and more convenient to get the work done now and pay later.
 
 
Replacing Your Windows and Doors as Part of the Home Remodeling Process
​
One of the biggest mistakes people make undertaking the massive task of remodeling their home room by room is not knowing when to replace the windows and doors. Windows are a structural element, so replacing them early in the remodeling process will be one factor in ensuring the integrity of your home structure. 
 
The new window style you choose will also impact the interior design choices you make. Consider what happens if you decide to replace your current double-hung windows with a bay window or a beautiful picture window. Your view and perspective of the room will change dramatically and will therefore have a strong influence on which cabinets, flooring, light, or even décor you want. 
 
​
The first essential step to the window or door replacement process is to understand your options. We hope these tips help you choose the right time to replace your windows or doors. If you have questions or would like to window shop, discuss financing options, or talk installation scheduling timeframes – stop by our office or get in touch with us today. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to work with our team of professionals.

It can be a significant investment to replace windows in your home. The good news is that not only will new windows will add value to your home, but also the energy savings you get from this upgrade will put cash back in your wallet. New windows are a necessary improvement to protect your home from the extreme temperature changes we experience here in Northern Arizona. Here are three ways you can save energy and money with your replacement windows. ​

Window Placement Affects Your Home's Energy Efficiency
Before you head out for some window shopping, take note of the different directions your windows are facing. Are they north, south, east or west-facing? You can increase your home's energy efficiency by selecting specific Low-e (low-emissivity) glass coatings for each window placement in the different areas of your home. You can choose Low-e glass that:

• Reflects heat and retain interior cooling
• Reflects cold weather and retains interior heat
• Blocks harmful UV rays to help prevent sun damage to the interior of your home

 

Window Energy Star Rating Matters
Did you know that if you replace your single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors, you could shrink your energy bill by an average of 12 percent nationwide compared to non-certified products?  Over an extended period of time, that's a big difference! When finding the best window choice for your home, don't forget to look for the energy-efficient window labels that indicate their efficiency benefits. Plus, you'll have the added comfort of knowing that windows with ENERGY STAR® and NFRC labels have been thoroughly tested and meet the energy performance standards for your state. 
 

How Window Treatments Save You Money
Replacement windows will take you a long way in saving energy. Don't overlook the significant additional benefits of window treatments!

• Awnings: In our hot Arizona climate, install awnings to the outside of your windows to help protect your home from the sun's heat. Window awnings can help reduce solar heat by 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows. 

 

• Interior blinds: Interior blinds are effective at reducing heat gain rather than protecting against heat loss. This is because of the many openings between the blinds. However, blinds offer more flexibility in controlling glare, light, and heat during Arizona's summer months.

 

• Drapes: Drapes are dual-purpose. Summertime drapes can help reflect the heat and keep your home cool. In the winter, they can help reduce heat loss from a warm room by up to 10% when installed right. For maximum efficiency, install drapes close to the window and let them reach all the way to the floor.

 

• Shades: Shades in the center of the glass help increase insulation and protect your home in the same way interior blinds would. One major benefit to between-the-glass shades is that you don't have to dust them, and unless a window actually gets broken, it's unlikely they'll get damaged from children or pets.

 

• Solar window screens: Solar window screens reduce solar heat gain, UV glare, and damage. 

 
Whether you are shopping for window replacements or just looking for ways to increase your existing windows' energy efficiency, these window options can help increase your home's energy efficiency and save you money. Want more information on which windows would be the best fit for your home? Chat with our window experts today.

​
​Winter has finally decided to show its face here in Northern Arizona, and with it comes the gusty wind and drafty windows. We put together a window and door winter preparation checklist for you to keep your windows and doors in prime condition and prevent damage from occurring. This will ensure your home is ready for whatever winter storms come our way this year.

Leak and Draft Inspection
​
First, start with a detailed inspection of the window area to check for leaks. Do you see any signs of rot, decay? These are clear indications of leaks. The next things you want to look for are small gaps or old damaged caulking. Schedule an appointment for immediate repair with your local window and door company if this check reveals anything worrying. Don't wait to make repairs! If moisture leaks in, it can cause extensive damage to not only the window or door but the walls surrounding it as well. 
 

Window Frames

​Take a minute to inspect your window and door frames both inside and out. For fiberglass and vinyl, check for warped areas. If your window frames are made of wood, be sure to inspect the frame and the sash for damage or warping. You want window frames that are up to par to withstand the extreme temperature changes Northern Arizona experiences during the winter months. 
 

Weatherstripping 

Weatherstripping often gets left to the wayside but is a big contender when it comes to drafty windows. Weatherstripping is used to keep your windows and doors seal uptight. Inspect the weather stripping and if it's torn or dry rotted, scrap the old away and install new stripping. You can find new stripping at any home improvement store for next-to-nothing. Make sure to follow this step and you can significantly reduce your energy consumption during the winter.
 

Storm Doors

If you have a storm door, we recommend you use it as much as you can. It will act as an extra layer of protection from the elements and guard from any potential damage. 
 

Repair or Replace

​If you see any signs of rot, warping, or mold growth, get repairs done as soon as possible or consider replacing your windows or doors if they are old and inefficient. If you don't wait to make repairs, you'll save yourself money and stress in the long run.
 

Once you have these items checked off your list, you and your home are ready for a comfortable winter. If you're in need of new windows and doors, check-in here. Our team brings excellence, experience, and ethics to every project and will make sure your home is ready for whatever winter may bring.

​Want a Pro to inspect your windows for you? We now offer Contactless Window & Door Consultations. This means we inspect your windows and doors entirely from the outside, to minimize contact and help keep you safe. Call 928-778-3056 to schedule yours today.