Rushing the Decision Making
One of the most common mistakes most homeowners make is rushing the decision and buying whatever is readily available at the local window supplier.  Take the time to research your options and find a high-quality product that can meet your needs and budget. Make sure the windows you choose tick all the boxes in the areas that are important to you, such as energy efficiency, noise reduction, and privacy.

Don’t Forget to Consider Future Maintenance Costs
Many people only take into consideration the initial cost of windows and installation, but it's important to remember that windows are an investment. Depending on the type and material of the windows you choose, you may need to factor in costs for maintenance, cleaning, and painting down the road. 

What about Security?
Another mistake is ignoring security. While windows are great for providing a view and bringing in natural sunlight, they should also keep you safe and secure. When buying windows, be sure to consider the safety and security features that are available. Ask your window provider or contractor what add on security options they have available to see if any fit your needs. 

Hiring the Wrong Window Installers
Finally, hiring the wrong window installer can be a costly mistake. Be sure to do your research and hire a reputable, experienced window installer who can get the job done right. One way to know you are getting qualified installers is to choose a company that is certified. Check for certification such as Pella Certified Contractor or Andersen Certified Contractor – they are highly trained to install your windows to manufactures specifications. 

Here at Triple E Construction, we want you to get the best possible windows for your home and your lifestyle. We’ll walk you through the window buying process with ease. Gone are the unnecessary headaches and stress – enjoy peace of mind in knowing that you have made a quality investment in your property.

What other mistakes do you think people make when purchasing new windows? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 
 

​As a homeowner, your windows and doors are one of your most significant investments. Like any other investment, you want to make sure you’re choosing the right product, installation method, and warranty. As homeowners ourselves we get it, that's why we’ve simplified the window replacement process in this window and door buying guide, so you’re equipped with the information to find the right windows and doors for your lifestyle and home.

Start Your Window Replacement Process with a Little Inspiration
 
First, it is helpful to do a bit of inspirational research to understand better what you like and don’t like. Here, we put together some of our inspiration and design tips for window replacements. 
 
Learn to Speak Window Language
 
When you first begin looking for new windows and doors, the industry terminology can be overwhelming and make you feel lost rather quickly. Here are some standard terms and definitions that will help you navigate the window and door buying world more easily.
 
•       Double-hung – Two operable sashes on a window.
•       Double-pane – Two sheets of glass within the sash of a window.
•       Grille – The decorative piece that divides window panels and gives the appearance of multiple panes of glass.
•       Mullion – The structural part that attaches two separate windows.
•       Sash – The operable or stationary framework that sits inside the frame and holds the glass.
•       Single-hung – One operable sash on a window.
•       Single-pane – One sheet of glass within the sash of a window.
•       Triple-pane – Three layers of glass held together in the sash
 
At this point in the window buying process, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with all the information. Be easy on yourself. You don’t have to become an expert yourself. You only need a basic understanding of it all to feel confident in making the right decision. Write it down when you find yourself stressed or don’t understand something. These are great questions to ask the experts. 
 
Select Your Replacement Windows Materials to Fit Your Lifestyle
 
It is crucial to choose a window frame material that fits your lifestyle and climate. This will ensure that you will get optimal performance and total life expectancy for your windows and doors. Here are three of the most common window frame materials and their benefits:
 
Wood:  Wood window frames offer low maintenance, durability, energy efficiency, and beauty. 
 
Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows and doors resist warping, dents and rot. The maintenance and upkeep are minimal, while performance is reliable year-round. With the ability to withstand extreme weather and damaging UV rays, it is our most popular material preference in Northern Arizona. 
 
Vinyl:  Vinyl is tried and tested to withstand the effects of weathering. They are energy-efficient and easy to care for, while the design lends strength and durability to prevent sagging, warping, buckling, and bowing. 
 
 
Understanding Your Installation Options
 
In the window and door world, most installs are done one of two ways. 
 
Method 1 - Remove the glass and slip a new window inside the old window frame (that remains in the opening) and install sticky vinyl trim to span over the old structure to the new frame. With this method, the inefficient old frame is still in place, causing heat/cold loss, and it also decreases the amount of glass to view through. 
 
Method 2 - Remove the old window by pulling the frame towards the center of the opening to remove it without disturbing the surrounding exterior finishes. Then, slip the new finless framed window into the hole and squirt caulking around it to prevent moisture or wind from infiltrating the home. When the caulking fails, moisture will enter the wall and cause damage. Failure can happen with the slightest human error or slowly over time. 
 
As you can see, these install methods are not without their risks; the reason for this being that “window replacement companies” are not allowed to touch/modify the surrounding structure. 
 
Instead of replacing windows using conventional, quick-install methods (like above) – we replace the entire window and integrate the new windows nail fin with the existing moisture barrier previously installed on the house when it was initially built. This ensures that you end up with a superior product that lasts the window’s lifetime.
 
Window Warranty
 
After the window installation and clean-up are done, one of our team members will show you how to operate your new windows properly. This includes opening, closing, locking, and showing you the proper way to clean your windows. 
 
If a problem with your windows comes up and needs servicing, we’re here to help. At Triple E, we work closely with the window company of your choice to solve the problem as quickly as possible. 
 
Choosing the Right Window Replacement Contractor
Choosing the right window replacement contractor to install your new windows is essential in the window replacement process. In our book, it’s as important as choosing the right windows. But how do you know if you’re choosing the right one for your needs? Here are a few things to consider when choosing your contractor:
 

• Go with your gut feeling. 
• Make sure the contractor or window replacement service is licensed, bonded, and insured. 
• Ensure they specialize in window replacements. Look for certified badges such as Pella or Andersen. This ensures that they went through extensive training.
• Check their years of experience in the window industry.
• Think local – local contractors have a better understanding of your climate and can offer better advice on what windows handle the weather in your area best. 

 
 
As Northern Arizona’s local remodeling experts, you can rely on us to give you our honest opinion and professional recommendations. Let us help revitalize your home — Call 928-778-3056 to schedule a free window consultation.

​If you’re in the market for new windows, one of the first things you need to do is measure them! This can seem like a daunting task because if you get it wrong, it can lead to leaks, fogging, and rising energy costs - but don’t worry, it’s actually pretty simple. Today we’ll walk you through how to measure your replacement windows and give our top tips so you can ensure accurate measurements the first time.

How to Properly Measure a Window

1. First let’s measure the width of the window. Take your tape measure and measure from the inside jamb of one side of the window to the inside jamb of the other side. Do this for the top, middle, and bottom of the existing window – then record the shortest measurement.  
2. Now, let’s measure the height – this will be from the bottom (windowsill) to the top (head of the window). Again, take measurements on the left, center, and right sides of the window for best accuracy and record the shortest measurement. 

​What to do with Your Window Measurements
Along with the measurements you’ve taken, record the style of window you have, what room the window is in, the direction the window is facing, and any problems you’ve been having with the window. Once that is done, get in touch with a window expert to get a rough estimate for your window replacement and begin the process of choosing your replacement window style.

Tips to Remember When Measuring Replacement Windows
 

• Be sure to take all of your measurements from the inside to keep everything consistent.
• If your numbers are slightly off, that’s normal, but if the measurements are significantly off, do your due diligence and remeasure. 
• Choose the smallest number for the overall measurement. That way, your replacement window will fit in the smallest places.
• While you need to measure your windows in three different spots, you should also measure your windows a total of three times to get the most accurate measurement. We recommend doing this to catch any mistakes. 
• Don’t be surprised if the middle of the window is slightly bigger than the edges with different styles of windows. 

 
Ask Professionals to Measure for Replacement Windows
Still worried about DIY window measurements? That’s okay; most window companies will send experts out to take the measurements for you for free. 
 
When you work with Triple E Construction for your window replacement needs, we’ll schedule a time to measure your windows, talk about your replacement options and answer any questions you have with a free consultation. We’re here for you from the first phone call until the finished product is installed, and you are happily enjoying your new and improved view. 
 
Ready to get started with your window replacements? Contact us today to get started. 
 

​When it comes time to buy new windows and doors, Northern Arizona homeowners often dismiss the fact that climate plays a significant role in how well their windows will perform. The truth is most homeowners don't want to deal with wasting time and energy researching hundreds of different window options to only be more confused than when they started. So more often than not, they head over to the local home improvement store and go with the run-of-the-mill, budget-friendly vinyl windows. These windows and doors may work fine for a while until they don't. Noise pollution, drafts, fogging - all these minor problems add up to more significant issues, and you end up replacing the windows sooner than you need to. But what if it doesn't have to be that way? 

The Truth About Vinyl Windows in Arizona Climate
Here's the thing, vinyl doesn't work in every climate; the intense sun, strong wind, and extreme temperatures of Northern Arizona are brutal on our windows and doors. The seals and hardware take a beating. If something isn't installed correctly or the workmanship isn't up to par, it won't take long before the problems reveal themselves. 
 
What are the Best Windows for Arizona Climate?
We've found that Pella's Fiberglass Impervia windows and doors solve this problem for Arizona homeowners. 
 
But don't just take our word for it, let's look at the science behind these windows. In both the heat and cold, fiberglass expands and contracts at the same rate as the glass, whereas vinyl stays relatively unchanged. Therefore, with the fiberglass window, the seals are not continually pushed and pulled against, keeping the door airtight and thus outlasting the seals in a vinyl window.
 
If you aren't a fan of Fiberglass windows but still want a window that works well in Arizona's climate, try Pella's wood frame Lifestyle Series. It offers durability, low-maintenance and has the option for aluminum-clad protection. 
 
Quality Vinyl Windows
While you will find us making a strong case for fiberglass and wood windows due to how it holds up in our climate, let's look at vinyl frame options for those who find vinyl to fit their needs best. 
 
To ensure you are getting a good vinyl product, here are a few things to look for: 

• Check the frame joints. Joints that are heat-welded or metal-reinforced interlocking sashes have more robust structural integrity vs. frames that are joined together with fasteners such as screws.
• Check the color for uniformity. The color should be consistent throughout the entire frame. 
• Count the number of chambers in the frame. Multi-chambered frames help reinforce the window frame, giving it more durability and improving performance. The smaller the chambers, the better the frame's integrity.

 
 
What’s a Good Vinyl Window Brand?
When choosing vinyl windows, go for high-performance options such as Pella's Vinyl Windows:

• Pella's vinyl windows are 52% stronger than regular vinyl.
• With foam insulation and triple-pane glass, Pella's vinyl windows are 62% more efficient than single pane vinyl windows. 
• You'll get a wide variety of options when it comes to window styles and exterior colors.

 
In the long run, choosing the right windows and doors for your climate saves you money. You'll have a consistently lower energy bill, you won't have to spend money on repairs, and you won't have to replace your windows again. With Triple E's knowledge of the local climate and our superior installation process combined with Pella's extensive testing and exceptional warranty on all their products, you'll get quality products and services that will last you a lifetime. Together we can make your life easier and breezier for years to come. Contact us today.

When is the Best Time to Install Window Replacements?  
 
There are typically three different times people choose to schedule their replacement windows:

• Based on the Seasons- The most popular time to replace windows is during the mild seasons – spring and fall. Remember to schedule months in advance to get the best time slot to fit your schedule. Selecting the winter or summer months for your home improvement project also has its perks. Window companies tend to offer better discounts and can be more flexible.   
• Budget- Some people choose to replace their windows when it meets their budget.  
• More often than not, people choose to replace their windows during their home remodel. This way, they can update the style of the windows to match the new interior design. 

​What Type of Replacement Windows are Available?
As a Pella Certified Contractor, we can help you find a window to match your needs. Window types include: 

• Casement
• Double-Hung
• Single-Hung
• Bay & Bow
• Awning
• Sliding
• Picture
• Custom & Specialty​

​What are the Most Popular Windows for Northern Arizona? 
The two top performers for Northern Arizona's climate are:

• Pella's Lifestyle Series
• Pella's Impervia 

 
Do Replacement Windows Really Pay for Themselves?
Yes. It's estimated that when replacing single-pane windows with ENERGYSTAR® certified windows, the average U.S. home saves between $125 to $465 annually.
 
Is Fog/Condensation on My Windows a Bad Sign?
Condensation on your windows' exterior or interior indicates high humidity levels, and there is no reason to worry. If you are experiencing fog or condensation between the glass, this could mean the seal between the window panes has failed, and moisture has leaked in. 
 
Are There Benefits to Replacing Windows?
To keep it simple: reduced noise, energy efficiency and curb appeal are just a few key benefits of window replacements. 
 
Where Can I get More Information?
If you would like more information on Pella® windows here, you go.
 
You can also contact us to learn more about Pella Products and our remodeling services. If you are curious about the working and looks of the Pella Products, visit our Showroom. 
 
What Type of Window Replacement Installation Will I get When Working With Triple E?
Our headache-free process meets or exceeds the original building standards by replacing the entire window and frame. We do this by integrating the new window nail fin with the existing moisture barrier. You can learn more here about the different window installation methods to watch out for. 
 
Is Financing Replacement Windows a Good Idea?
Replacing windows in your home can uncover more problems to fix than planned for. A window leak can cause damage to the surrounding walls which could increases the cost of the original job. Financing can give you a bit of breathing room in these types of situations and help you get your windows replaced on time so you can get back to living your best life.

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.