ArchivesSeptember 29, 2010Renovating A World WonderWhen you mention New York City, the iconic Empire State Building is one of the first images that come to mind. This landmark is in the process of receiving a makeover that will be an example for all large scale energy efficient retrofitting projects in the future. Our partner, Serious Materials, is responsible for retrofitting the building’s 6,500 windows. Their goal is not to replace the windows, but enhance them through Heat Mirror technology and other energy saving techniques. No windows, in working condition, will be thrown away. Conserving material is essential in creating a “zero waste” project, a major concern for the building’s owner Tony Malkin. Read more… September 28, 2010Making Window Replacement Look EasyA few weeks ago, I was able to visit a window replacement project in Leesburg, VA. Over the course of the day, the team of 4 was charged with replacing 8 windows. These windows were of different shapes and sizes and located in very hard to reach places. Undaunted by the task before them, the Long Windows crew went to work and made the entire process seem easy. Window installers must have a bit of daredevil in them. They brave terrifying heights without so much as an apprentice to steady the ladder. Though I was not able to film the entire project, I was able to capture the replacement of one second floor window. The video above shows how our installers work with efficiency and professionalism. Ultimately, they make this complicated process seem like a walk in the park. September 24, 2010Kitchen Countertops: 4 Ways To Spice Up The KitchenKitchen countertops are often taken for granted. They are used and abused more than any other surface in the kitchen, but we only think about them in passing. Even when we are thinking about remodeling our kitchen, we tend to think more about color scheme and adding functional features like islands and overhead lighting. We’ve reviewed the benefits of quartz and granite countertops in a prior blog post. However, there are other options to consider. Keep in mind; it is very important that the kitchen countertop is both functional and appealing to the eye. September 23, 2010An Energy Efficient Frame Of MindWe’ve talked plenty about the features of our windows. Everything from krypton gas to Heat Mirror provides our clients with the best windows on the market. What is often overlooked is the frame which houses the window. As you can see in the video, most standard window frames are just that – a housing element. Long Windows realized the frame is another opportunity to improve our product’s performance. The video shows how our window frames are equipped with insulating foam to help protect your home from extreme temperatures. The worker from Serious Materials wore the suit only to protect her clothing; the insulation is non-toxic. Insulation in the frame may not seem like a big factor, but when it comes to saving energy every little bit helps. September 21, 2010Sandtown Habitat For Humanity: Window InstallationLast Friday, Long Windows began installing their best windows into the Habitat for Humanity home in Baltimore, Maryland. The four man crew got started early to complete the installations on the street facing side of the home. There is still much work to be done, but we will work with Sandtown Habitat for Humanity and Under Armour to create the first LEED Platinum house in Baltimore City. The home itself is coming along at a remarkable pace. You can follow the project’s progress through their blog. More pictures of the window installation after the jump. |