If you’re tempted to take advantage of Window Factory’s nocost low e3 glass upgrade, you should understand what this product really doesfor your home’s energy efficiency.

Low e3 stands for low-emission cubed. It helps reduce theamount of ultraviolet (UV) light and radiation. By keeping the warm air out insummer and cool air out in winter, properly installed low-e class can reduce overall energy bills by up to one-third.

Because low-e glass contains a microscopically thin metallicoxide coating, it helps suppress noise and provides protection against sun damage and fading.

So – upgrade to low e3 for free – and win at energy efficiency.

If window replacement is on your tax rebate fix up list, think outside the big box. This is an area where specialization counts. The lowest price (if it is actually lower) may not be the one-stop-shopping you need.

Why?

 

1. Service. If you're selling cameras one day and windows the next, your level of expertise just isn't the same. It's a window and you need it to be measured, manufactured and installed expertly so your family stays warm, cool and dry.
2. Price. The big box stores might not have the savings a window specialist would. End to end (measure to installation) companies can often provide a better price.
3. Made to measure vs. off the shelf. No contest here.
4. Warranty. Your house is your home. Their warranty is their word and you want it to last a lifetime.

Call today for a no-obligation free estimate!

You love your home - but hate your windows. They may not be energy efficient - or maybe they just don't fit the home's style. Windows do more than let light and air in. They're a design feature that's visible from both inside and out. So how do you marry replacement windows to your home's design? Here are a few ideas:

• Sliders - these modern windows provide an unobstructed view of the outdoors while providing excellent ventilation.
• Single or double hung - this traditional style provides with grille pattern options and energy-saving with double hung and tilt out for easy cleaning with single hung models
• Geometric - need special shapes? How about a curved window over your reading nook?
• Picture windows - let the light in without obstruction when you don't need an operable window
• Bay or bow windows - increase the square footage and look of your home
• Garden windows - provide the space of a planter with greater beauty and light

For more information, contact the Window Factory, 888-819-3898.

If you’re thinking of replacing your home’s windows, wheredo you start? It’s easier if you break the project down, say the experts at theWindow Factory. Here’s a quick how-to checklist:

1. Count and list all the windows you want toreplace.
2. Determine the type of window you’re replacing –do you need sliders, double hung, picture windows– or a combination?
3. Are they Energy Star rated (low-e glass)?
4. Do you need safety windows anywhere?
5. Are there any specialty windows (bow, bay) ordoors – French doors, patio doors or pet doors?

With these answered, your window measurement will be thatmuch easier.

We don’t fear snow in Southern California, but rain canstress homeowners out, especially if their house has older windows. If wood, ill-fitting windows are letting rainin, it may be time to look at replacement windows. But before you replace oldleaky windows (and doors – which can be tricky), make sure the new ones willfit, are properly sealed and eliminate all of your water leakage problems. Howdo you do this? By selecting a window specialist, a company whose only businessis windows – from manufacturing to installation. Your installer will ensureevery step of the process is done professionally so you’ll never need to fearthe weatherman again.

For more information, contact the WindowFactory, 888-819-3898.

Does energy efficiency really matter if it doesn’t freeze and snow in the winter and reach 114 in the summer?

According to the U.S. government’s Energy Star program, replacing old windows wherever you are will save 7-15 percent on your household heating and cooling bill. And, by lowering your consumption will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants as well as your home’s carbon footprint.

If that’s not enough, Energy Star windows, like those from the Window Factory, can help make you more comfortable year round. With their special coating, it’s like a sunscreen for your house.

What could be healthier?

When most homeowners think about increasing safety, the first things that come to mind are locks and outdoor lighting. But the area where they could make a substantial safety difference is with their home’s windows.

It is estimated that one-third of home entries are through windows. Burglars don’t like breaking glass, and many homeowners make it easy for them by having open, unsecured windows.

What can you do? No, bars aren’t the answer. But a safety window such as one from the House Armor™ line could be. With two levels of defense, these windows provide an outer pane of glass that will make a loud noise on impact and an inner pane made of glass similar to that in your car’s windshield.

They’re available in a number of styles to fit your home. So if safety is on your window replacement list along with quality and value, contact Window Factory at 888-819-3898.

Whatever your choice, it will not only let the light in – it will let you out.

We love windows. They add light to a room, provide ventilation and sometimes even a great view. But what about when you’re tired of just looking at the view and would really like to have access to it? Maybe it’s time to change that window to a door.

Where do you start? We would recommend asking an expert – a window installer. He could determine the best way to make this structural change, depending on the size of the window and exterior material of your home (stucco, brick, etc.). And then, based on room and exterior space, you can select which type of door best suits your style: French doors (swinging or on rails), a single swing door or a sliding or swinging patio door.

Call today for your free estimate!

You ran into the big box hardware store for grout, but your wife stopped at the window section. Maybe it’s time to replace those leaky old windows in the den. But with what – and from where?

Is the lowest price from the biggest chain the best deal? Not necessarily. So how do you determine where to go: big box or window specialist? Here are some key things to think about:

• Service. You want to be certain your windows will be supported with service, since they will last many years. A sales associate who is also selling appliances will not necessarily have the expertise that a window specialist has. You want a free estimate, expert measurement and post-installation service and support.
• Choices. Nothing about windows is off the shelf. You want to make decisions based on your home, your needs and your wallet. Windows are a custom product and should be treated as such.
• Cost. Cheaper isn’t necessarily cheaper. If you have a window supplier that does every step of the process – from manufacturing to installation – you will likely save in the end.

So, maybe the message is that you don’t need to purchase your grout and your windows in the same place.

Call today for your free estimate!

You've decided to make that move and replace your windows but think you need to choose: character over comfort. But here are some thoughts to make you more comfortable when choosing replacement vinyl windows.

You don't need to change the character of your home. You can add French doors or specialty shaped styles. If you loved your window box but hated (secretly, of course) what it looked like, choose a Garden Window for the kitchen. These choices don't need paint, are more cost-effective than wood and last longer.

What could be easier or more in character with your life?

Contact the Window Factory today for your free estimate.

When it is time to make upgrades to your house, it's important to keep an eye on what's going to continue to provide a payback, look good and fit with the entire project. And that can mean replacing windows.

You know they look tired against the newly renovated room - and are not energy efficient or especially safe, but you thought it was outside the budget. It's time to think again.
It's simply smart to replace old windows with good looking, energy efficient ones that will keep you cooler through the summer and warmer through the winter.

When you replace your old windows with quality vinyl, you immediately upgrade your upgrades.

Contact the Window Factory today for your free estimate.

It's almost spring time again and that means it's time to enhance the comfort and look of your home with energy efficient vinyl replacement windows and doors.

Those old window frames haven't looked good in years. Haven't you imagined the improvement new windows could add to your home?

The Window Factory offers the best long term value and a commitment to the continued
maintenance of your windows.

Visit our new office and showroom at :

7550 Miramar Rd. - San Diego, CA - 92126

Call today for a no-obligation free estimate!

Vinyl replacement windows are the best choice for your family for a variety of reasons. Vinyl replacement windows are the most commonly used in the market because they are highly energy efficient, affordable, and available in a wide range of styles, easily customizable and maintenance free. Here are some of the benefits of vinyl replacement windows:

• Save on heating and cooling costs
• No need to paint or stain
• Durable and long lasting
• Affordable
• Wide range of styles
• Customizable
• Quick and easy installation

Vinyl windows from The Window Factory are immune to harsh weather and pollutants, and they won't ever rust or corrode. And, you'll never have to paint our vinyl windows because the color goes through the entire frame.

Many consumers often ask, "Is there a factory direct replacement window company?" Most of the time your average consumer can't buy windows directly from the manufacturer. First, you have to buy the windows, then you have to pay a contractor to install them.

At The Window Factory we handle the whole project from start to finish. We are the manufacturer, retailer and installation technician.

Call today for your free estimate!

There are choices when it comes to replacement windows. Some windows will add real value and curb appeal to your house and others, not nearly as much.

Wood replacement windows are widely available but they're a costly option.

Aluminum windows are visually unappealing and not very energy efficient at all.

Vinyl windows are always the best choice. They look sharp and they're the most efficient window material. Made with insulated glass and solid vinyl frame, Window Factory windows are the best in the business.

Our windows reduce heating and air conditioning bills and our House Armor windows increase the safety of your home as well.

The Window Factory stands by its 13-year history in the business, providing Southern California with cost -ffective and energy efficient window replacement solutions.

Call to schedule a free in-home estimate today!

Do you feel a draft coming through your windows? Is it time to upgrade and add value to your home?

It's time to get a free estimate.

The Window Factory has kept up with new technologies over the last 13 years of business, making the manufacturing and installation of replacement windows more precise and more effective.

Making a window change on your home using the most effective manufacturing technologies maximizes the overall energy efficiency of your house by as much as 40%.

Add to this a discount on your insurance (up to 65%) and an Energy Star compliant rebate (up to $1,500.00). That's a substantial savings for you and your family.

Contact The Window Factory today and we can help you improve the look of your home, increase the value and help keep your home safe and warm.

With home values on the decline there are 2 questions you're probably asking yourself; "Will I keep my home or will I sell it?" No matter the answer to the first question, the next question will probably be; "Should I invest in my home or save my money?"

Whether you choose to stay or sell, making small changes to your home enhances the look as well as giving you a substantial Return on Investment (ROI).

When it comes to getting the most for your hard-earned money, most people think a splash of paint, landscaping or bathrooms, all of which will help maximize a home's ROI. Window replacement is the most rewarding ROI, improving the look and feel of your home, increasing energy efficiency and ensure your family's safety.

A window replacement program will average an 80% return on investment. No other upgrade will give you an ROI as strong as window replacement.

Replacing your windows can make this kind of ROI a reality.

Call today for your free estimate!

The Window Factory cares about saving energy costs and saving homeowners money. The Window Factory uses Super Spacer, which goes between two pieces of glass, used to reduce heat transfer and significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Many other companies use spacers that use metal, which could be a conductor of heat and cold. The Window Factory also uses Super Spacer because it provides maximum condensation resistence.

The Window Factory maintains two vinyl-welding machines supported by a computer driven CNC corner cleaner to deliver exact cuts and minimize vinyl waste from the fabrication process. Other companies have to rely on separate manufacturers to be exact.

At The Window Factory, we are the manufacturer, retailer and installer.

It's not only doing the job right - it's about doing the best job!

With 20 years in the business as a full service company, The Window Factory has over 13,000 customers and have installed over 50,000 windows and doors.

The Window Factory takes care of its customers every step of the way, from the manufacturing to the installation and maintenance. All of your new windows and doors come with a lifetime warranty for the vinyl frames, the glass and the installation.

When you choose The Window Factory to install your new windows and doors, you're choosing the best.

Sign up soon! Time is running out to get your Federal Tax Credit. Sign up today! Tax Incentive expires December 31^st, 2010.

The reality of today's economy means that many homeowners are fixing up rather than trading up, and doing the work themselves. These do-it-yourself projects range from painting to changing hardware to upgrading a bath with new mirrors.

One project that is not for the average homeowner, or even the average handyman, is window replacement.

You might end up with the wrong size window. A small mistake in installation or being just a little off in measuring means that you can end up with a draft around your new windows which lets in the heat in summer, and lets the heat out in winter. A mistake in the installation may even compromise your home's security.

This is why the Window Factory makes sure that its factory installation technicians are the best in the business.

Call today to have a trained technician from The Window Factory install your new windows.

Go with the best choice, call The Window Factory and treat your home to a professional upgrade.

On August 10^th a 22 year old woman woke up at 4am to find a strange man fondling her. She screamed and he ran off but this kind of thing should not happen in La Jolla and should certainly not happen in your home.

The stats are scary 60% of rapes happen during home invasions. The Window Factory has the windows you need to keep your loved ones safe while they sleep. The House Armor windows from the window factory will keep those you care about safe. Unlike traditional burglar bars, these don't bring down your home's value.

House Armor is made up of two panes and features deadbolt locks. The outer pane is a pane of traditional glass which shatters loudly letting you know of a disturbance. The inner pane of glass is laminated to stand up to the most brutal attacks without shattering.

The Window Factory is the only place to get House Armor. Get House Armor Windows now so you can sleep a little better tonight.

First two followers that tell us the color of Chris Martin's shoes worn in the fight tonight win a set of autographed boxing gloves when you buy three or more windows.

Tonight The Window Factory sponsors Champion fighter Chris "SD Kid" Martin (19-0-2, 5 KOs) as he takes on veteran Mexican slugger Jose Luis Araiza (32-2, 23 KOs) in an eight round junior featherweight clash. Event is at Four Points Sheraton and televised nationally on Telefutura.

Sunday, September 12 is Family Energy Day and Street Smart San Diego. Please stop by the Window Factory booth where you will have an opportunity to fill out an in-home estimate form and receive 40% off listed price! This is an exclusive offer for Sunday only, not applicable with other offers. Also, find out if you're eligible to get up to $1500 tax credit.

Are you going to Family Energy Day and Street Smart San Diego on September 12? The Window Factory is going hopefully we will see you there. You can test drive the latest electric cars and scooters. The solar cars are not just for adults either; there will be electric cars in kid-friendly size and power too.

The Window Factory is happy to be helping our environment and your wallet with our low energy windows. Not only does Uncle Sam help cover the cost of new windows for your home, but these windows keep you at the temperature you set with your thermostat so you save on your bills.

So come by the California Center for Sustainable Energy on Sunday, enter a couple of contests, eat some great food with racing driver, Leilani Munter and be sure to say hi at the Window Factory Booth while you and your kids are enjoying a great Sunday.

The San Francisco Chronicle knows a thing about getting the most out of a dollar. The paper has been staving off bankruptcy for a couple of years and in a recent article listed new windows as one of the "Top 5 Home Renos for Your Money."

The recession has made it harder to sell your home. That is a simple fact. So if you do plan on selling, renovations are a great way to set your home ahead of the pack. Even without current tax incentives which help cover new energy-efficient windows for your home, you can expect to get 85% of your investment in new windows back when you sell your home.

The cost of heating and cooling your home is going up and will keep rising. New energy-efficient windows from The Window Factory will cut your energy bills. Your heating bill can drop by 25% and you can expect to see what you spend on air conditioning go down by 15%. So even if you don't sell your home for several decades, you can make your money back and get a better looking home with new windows from The Window Factory.

August 27^th brought some justice in one of the worst home invasion cases in San Diego. A case that likely could have been prevented if the home had been equipped with House Armor from The Window Factory. The residents of this Redwood Village home were assaulted, raped and doused with lighter fluid. They were told they were going to be lit aflame.

Thankfully the criminal is serving 76 years to life for his crimes but the residents likely should have considered House Armor, which would have kept them safe. House Armor is a tough window made up of layered glass which keeps you and your loved ones safe from the sick scum that sadly are part of this world.

The outer pane of House Armor shatters loudly on impact alerting you to a disturbance. The inner pane remains intact despite repeated impacts from a potential attacker. This gives you plenty of time to call the authorities so undesirables can be put behind bars, where they belong.

This year the California Center for Sustainable Energy has combined two popular events into one awesome day for you and your kids to enjoy. The Window Factory is excited to be part of Family Energy Day and Street Smart San Diego on Sunday September 12^th.

Rising Nascar star and Carbon-Neutral racer Leilani Münter will be there an there are some great prizes like Chargers tickets, electric bicycles and solar water heating systems up for grabs. There will also be delicious locally grown sustainable food for sale.

Adults can test drive the latest electric cars and bikes (some of which aren't even for sale yet) while kids can have lots of fun in child-sized solar cars.

Be sure to learn about federal tax programs for discounts and refunds on products that save you money off your bills. Like new windows or doors from The Window Factory. A home upgrade that will make a great upgrade to your house and your wallet.

So while you're enjoying a great day out with your family, stop by the Window Factory Booth and say hi.

The time to finally upgrade the windows on your home is here! Uncle Sam wants you to cut down on how much energy your home uses. The federal government is so determined to get you to cut down on your energy use that they are willing to help you pay for new, energy star approved windows from The Window Factory.

During the summer months, sunlight pours into your home through your old inefficient windows. This jacks up the temperature and means you have to pay more for air conditioning. With our new low-energy windows you can cut what you spend on air conditioning by 15% while keeping your home beautifully lit with sunshine.

In the winter months those same old windows that keep your home unnecessarily hot in the summer let cold seep in. This makes it even more expensive to heat your home. With low-energy windows you keep the cold out. These windows actually keep the cold out so much that you can save 25% on your heating bill. So with our windows you save a ton of money on your bills and Uncle Sam will cover 30 % of the cost of the actual windows. Why did you put this off for so long?

Do you really think that you are safe with burglar alarms? The fact is a burglar alarm goes off when someone enters your home. Wouldn't a form of security that keeps people out of your home be better? Traditional bars on your home's windows are effective but they also look terrible and can bring down the value of your home.

With House Armor from The Window Factory, you get more protection than window bars offer, without the disadvantages. House Armor is made up of two panes of glass. The outer pane will shatter loudly on impact, alerting you of a possible danger. The inner pane will not shatter despite repetitive, forceful attacks. House Armor windows also look like normal windows and have deadbolt locks that can be locked even when the windows are partially open.

How safe are your family when they are sleeping at night? Living in California means you get some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country right outside your window. It also means that your home is under constant threat from earthquakes.

When an earthquake happens your windows can shatter and shards of glass spray onto whatever is nearby. If your children or other loved ones are sleeping near a window when this happens, they could be severely injured. With House Armor windows from The Window Factory, the inner pane of glass will not shatter. This keeps both you and those you love safe in one of California's famed earthquakes.

How safe are your family when they are sleeping at night? Living in California means you get some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country right outside your window. It also means that your home is under constant threat from earthquakes.

When an earthquake happens your windows can shatter and shards of glass spray onto whatever is nearby. If your children or other loved ones are sleeping near a window when this happens, they could be severely injured. With House Armor windows from The Window Factory, the inner pane of glass will not shatter. This keeps both you and those you love safe in one of California's famed earthquakes.

Stop by the Window Factory's booth over at the San Diego Fair by Sunday for your last chance at giveaways, prizes and FREE Padres tickets! We've already had a tremendous turnout with dozens of winners and familiar faces, come by booth 1236 in O'Brian hall for your chance!

With record-breaking attendance (over 1.3 million visitors!) , this year's fair finale is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Headliners like Joan Jett and OneRepublic will be rousing crowds as the Monster Truck and Demolition Derby wreak havoc in the background all weekend long.

Swing by the booth to claim your prize and enjoy what is sure to be a spectacular finale!

The EPA has just announced an extension of the Renovation Repair and Painting Rule's certification requirement deadline. Renovators now have until October 1, 2010 to register for training courses in remodeling projects that may disturb more than six square feet of "potentially" lead-contaminated painted surfaces for all residential and multifamily structures built before 1978. RRP regulations also warrant against the use of any high-heat guns or high-speed equipment such as grinders and sanders (unless equipped with a HEPA filter) or open torch burning.

Renovators have until December 31, 2010 to complete training and certification programs. The latest RRP requirements have left many industry specialists' irritated as the lack of approved trainers in most states has jeopardized their chances of becoming certified, costing thousands in lost projects.

For more information on the EPA's RRP Certification regulations, visit the National Home Association's website.

The Window Factory is one of the most popular businesses in the U.S. So popular in fact; we are in the top one percent of Google's local business listings. Less than 250,000 businesses in America achieve this level of global recognition.

As one of Google's Favorite Places, we now offer fans access to the latest of Google's viral communities. Google's new program gives users the opportunity to scan special QR barcodes with their smartphones which will lead to The Window Factory's profile and Google review community.

Check us out or drop us a line!

-JJ

The Window Factory is proud to announce a giant win for San Diego's rising homegrown sensational boxer, Chris Martin who scored a victory in a six-round match Friday night, maintaining his record of 18 wins, no losses and two draws.

Martin's Window Factory sponsored bout was part of the Solo Boxeo Tecate series which was broadcast to millions of viewers on the Telefutura network. These viewers all bore witness to a triumphant victory by Martin who fought in shorts pride-fully emblazoned with The Window Factory name.

We'd like to thank our Tecate partners for their overwhelming broadcast support, look for The Window Factory in headlines early next week!

Here's your chance to win big: visit the Window Factory team at the Del Mar "Taste the Fun" fair for your chance to win cash prizes, gift certificates to local restaurants or even Padres tickets!

We'll be offering fair fans the chance to enter our hourly drawings on Saturday and Sunday throughout the month of June. Stop by our booth 1236 in O'Brian hall and win big!

Are your home's dilapidated or dated windows decreasing your property's value? Recover the sparkle and appeal that made you fall in love with your house in the first place by replacing those broken and energy inefficient windows today and save up to 40% (when purchased before June 30, 2010)!

With a wide selection of cost-saving and indestructible vinyl windows, The Window Factory team seamlessly creates and installs custom windows to instantly beautify your home while beating out the competition.Contact us today for your FREE estimate!

-JJ

 

 

 

Our neighbors at MyGreenHomeBlog.com recently informed us about DSIRE: a database of state incentives for renewables and efficiency (www.dsireusa.org). With this easy to use tool, you don't have to scour through numerous lackluster government websites full of environmental jargon.

DSIRE covers renewable energy (think solar and wind power) and energy efficiency (everything from ceiling fans to geothermal heat pumps). For both categories, there are financial incentives including rebates, property tax incentives, and grant programs offered by local, state, federal, and non-profit entities.

MyGreenHomeBlog warns: ".. its not QUITE as simple as point and click-you do have to read some of the details-but the DSIRE site does an adequate job of translating much of the legal language in the government legislation into plain English."

Visit our energy-efficient, low-e glass window gallery for a great selection of cost-saving products!

The Window Factory's incredible fans have honored us once again with a nomination as San Diego's 2010 Best Home Improvement and Window Replacement specialists! Providing Southern California with superior installations and customer service for over 20 years, we continue to appreciate your tremendous support.

Let your voice be heard, nominate the Window Factory online at the 14^th annual San Diego Best's Readers' Poll before May 23^rd to see your favorite window experts make it to the final round!

Thinking of selling your home? Consider adding value to your investment first. Houses with newer windows indicate to prospective buyers that their energy costs will be lower. Remodeling Magazine found that replacing a home's windows returns (on average) 91.6 % of the investment, while adding curb appeal.

Studies have shown that up to half of all home-buyers decide within 60 seconds of entering a home where aesthetics and energy efficiency are two key attributes. Offering custom, environmentally friendly and cost-efficient solutions, the Window Factory will help increase your home's value today!

Earn money by contacting the Window Factory experts for your free custom quote!!

California's $4.1 million green-auto campaign will begin offering rebates worth up to $20,000 for eligible zero-emission and plug-in vehicles. All new compact, trucks, commercial medium and heavy-duty vehicles will qualify. Trendy models like the Tesla Roadster will earn purchasers nearly $5,000 according to Autogreen Magazine.

Buyers are encouraged to act fast as program funds are capped and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Batteries Included: The World's 1^st Lithium Powered Home

Los Angeles-based green construction experts recently broke ground in Lancaster, CA on the world's first solar and lithium-FE battery powered home.

According to KB Home Director Craig LeMessurier, the garage-stored 2 by 3 foot, 15 pound batteries hold enough energy to power the house for up to 3 days, regardless if the solar panels are shadowed by June's notoriously gloomy character.

In a recent Ecohome interview, Alamosa county Mayor R.Rex Parris acknowledged green-lighting a community home-comparison study that will monitor the cost and energy saving benefits of transitioning California homes to this innovative technology. Partnering with KB Home in supporting eco-friendly projects, the city of Lancaster has waived all of the municipal development fees for the eco-home.

Save today with UV-reducing e-glass today!

Spring is officially underway, time to start clearing out those winter time bugs! Rid your windows of dust and grime with toxin-free, all natural, money saving cleaners that are already in your pantry:

Vinegar - White vinegar makes windows, counter tops, and hardwood floors sparkle. Add a few tablespoons to a gallon of water to make your home shine.

Lemons - The juice of these citrusy gems remove lime scale from metal fixtures. Mix with equal parts backing soda to clean copper, brass, and chrome.

Baking Soda - Often used as refrigerator deodorizer, baking soda can also be added to cat litter and laundry to neutralize odors. Tip: Make organic fabric stain remover by adding together 2-parts soda, 2-parts water and 1 part kosher salt.

Californians take the green movement from the window to the bar!! Tri-Ced, a materials recovery facility in Union City is converting disposed window glass and miscellaneous debris into recycled wine bottles. Hand sorters sift through over 7 tons of cardboard, metal, plastic and glass (per hour!) to produce an astonishing 2.5 million hued bottles every single day. These facilities hope to create over 2 billion bottles per year, off-setting the carbon footprint of a single Northern California vineyard.

Obama Introduces HOMESTAR's "Cash for Caulking"

Incentive Program

President Obama recently proposed an incentive-based solution sure to create thousands of jobs, save tax-payers millions and reduce the nation's dependency on fossil fuels. The "Cash for Clunkers" reminiscent HOMESTAR program would reimburse homeowners for residential energy upgrades such as air sealing, insulation, new light bulbs and new appliances. Aiming to increase demand for energy efficient goods and services, HOMESTAR would also generate thousands of desperately needed jobs within the construction and manufacturing industries.

Consumer-rewarding HOMESTAR programs include:

• Silver Star: Rebates between $1,000 and $1,500 for a variety of home upgrades including: adding insulation, sealing leaky ducts & replacing water heaters, HVAC units, windows, roofing & doors. Rebates are capped at $3,000 per home.

• Gold Star: Rebates for home energy audits & design upgrades reducing energy costs by at least 20% would be eligible for a $3,000 rebate, (additional rebates would be available for savings above 20%).

Homeowners may also take advantage of local and state government provided financing options for approved efficiency improving upgrades.

HOMESTAR incentives would be capped at 50% of total project costs and a portion of projects would require contractors to be certified to perform efficiency installations. Offering homeowners numerous tax-deductable, energy- saving window & door solutions, The Window Factory's certified Master Installation^TM team provides expert installation at factory low prices. Take advantage of these stimulus programs before they run out; click here for a free estimate!

-JJ

Web- heads at Google now offer pollution and emissions tracking for all U.S. counties. The EPA and Google Earth partners have developed a powerful tool for residents to track the exact toxins circulating in their neighborhoods (and by whom). These annual summaries are also holding big businesses accountable for their carbon-emissions as residents begin to call for action against industrial giants responsible polluting their neighborhoods.

A recent study by Forbes magazine sited Los Angeles and Bakersfield as the nation's most polluted cities. Surrounded by steel mills, car exhausts and smokestacks, Southern California is a breeding ground for murderous pollutants like carbon monoxide, lead & nitrogen oxide. These toxins have all been linked to Cancer, anemia, kidney failure, hearing loss and even death.

How safe is your neighborhood? Find out here.

Properly sealed windows and doors reduce the risk of these toxic fumes entering your home. Energy efficient, low-E glass will also reduce the effects of UV radiation on your family and home furnishings.

Protect your family my filtering the air circulating in your home with custom-fit windows and doors today and check out The Window Factory's latest energy-efficient windows!

Reducing utility costs and making your home more energy-efficient can be costly and time consuming. Here are 5 quick-fixes for short-term energy savings!

1.Inspect the indoor / outdoor caulking around the electrical hoses and water pipes entering your home. Fill any holes or gaps with temporary caulking to better insulate your home.

2. Install cost-effective insulation gaskets and child-proof covers for unused electricity outlets.

3. Repair water heater leaks. A dripping tap will waste over 2,000 liters a month. Install low-flow fixtures for around $10 to reduce water bills by 60%.

4. Turn down your thermostat by 1 degree and reduce your heating bill by 10%. Get chilly? Snuggle up with a blanket or a loved one.

5.Buy a clapper! At $5.99 this cost-effective energy saver will reduce your utility costs by turning off unneeded lighting.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a massive recall of roll-up window blinds and Roman-style shades made by Vertical Land Inc. The faulty "Cellular" series blinds do not feature inner-cord stop devices that prevent potential strangulation opportunities for curious young children.

In 2000, more than 200 infants and children died due to strangulation involving window cords. If you have children and blinds in your home, inspect the window coverings immediately to see if the cords can be separated to form a loop that could present a strangulation hazard.

Vertical Land blinds are sold throughout the U.S. by Target, JC Penny, Ace Hardware, Pottery Barn, IKEA and Wal-Mart. This recall affects more than 50 million blinds and shades that have been sold since 1994.

Consumers can contact the Window Covering Safety Council at www.windowcoverings.org or 800-506-4636 for a free repair kit. For Roman shades, these kits will substitute rings for cords. For roll-up blinds, the kits offer breakaway cords that separate under force.

For UV filtering, family-safe window solutions visit The Window Factory's latest energy efficient windows!

-JJ

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act expands federal income tax credits for homeowners who make energy efficiency home improvements. The consumer tax benefits has been extended through 2010; tripling the total available tax credit from $500 to $1,500; and increasing the tax credit to 30 percent of the cost of each qualified energy efficiency improvement.

Click here to find out how to take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity and increase your home's value today!

Energy efficient windows and doors can save you up to a third on your utility bills. BAD efficiency attempts will damage your home and cost you hundreds. Here are a few "tips" to avoid:

Tip 1: Covering windows with an after-market window film as to reduce damaging sun rays.
Truth: These films may claim to reduce ultraviolet (UV) radiation when applied to glass on windows or doors, but they may also cause glass breakage. A better solution is to choose the most energy-efficient, factory-assembled, Low-E glass windows to meet your home insulation and UV radiation protection needs.

Tip 2: Sealing windows shut is an effective way to conserve energy.
Truth: Sealing windows is ineffective and threatens your family's safety! Windows used as potential emergency exits must be operable to provide ventilation and a possible escape route in a fire or emergency.

Tip 3: Putting towels or rugs around leaking entry or patio doors will keep cold air out and warm air inside.

Truth: This short term solution to poorly installed windows & doors is ineffective. When replacing entry doors for best performance, safety, or to improve energy-efficiency, select entry door systems that are factory-built to quality standards, like The Window Factory's entry door systems, rather than doors assembled on-site from pieces or components.

-JJ

High wind and heavy rain damage from recent storms in Southern California has left many residents with hefty home-repair expenses. Just this past weekend, FOX 5 News reported an astonishing 3 inches of rainfall, many California homeowners are not prepared for these extreme weather conditions.

One way homeowners can protect their homes from deteriorating in unpredictable weather, is through weep hole maintenance.Weep holes, are small, protected openings at the base of the window that allow water inside to move outside the window and evaporate. Older metal frame and wood windows on the other hand, often have cracks that create leaks. Water entering the window, unable to drain, can infiltrate window seals and walls leading to water-damaged frames and even mold.

To protect homes from damage, licensed architect George Wolfson recommends replacing windows with American Architectural Manufacturer's Association (AAMA), R-rated window systems that are explicitly developed to weather (excuse the pun) specific climates and environments.
The Window Factory's vinyl windows, are designed with weather-proof weep hole protection.. Check out the latest Window Factory vinyl window systems. Our unique window designs and certified expert installation,by AAMA Certified Installation Masters® are guaranteed by The Window Factory's lifetime protection warranty.

-JJ

The easiest way to start saving 10% on your energy bills while ridding your house of toxic fumes? Insulate. Ridding your home of drafts can reduce your expenses as well as your carbon foot-print.

10% of heating is lost through inefficient, ill-fitted windows and 31% through floors, walls and ceilings. Investing in high-quality window and insulation systems, custom fit for your home, can save you a bundle.

The latest leaders in organic insulation? Sheep! Wool home insulation is a cost-efficient, biodegradable and easy to install solution that has been scientifically proven to remove toxic gases like formaldehyde from the air in your home. Most home ventilation is circulated through windows.By using professionally installed, energy saving windows with Low-E3, you can ensure an energy efficient home.

Protect your family and bank account today!

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As we've noted on The Window Factory blog before, replacing your old windows with double-paned, low-emission vinyl windows from The Window Factory can reduce your heating bills by up to thirty percent by helping to keep the cold air out and trap warm air indoors.

The same holds true in San Diego for keeping your home cool in the summertime by reducing the air conditioning that escapes due to insufficient insulation or old single-pane windows.

Arianne Cohen put up a great post this week on The New York Time's "The Fix" Blog, with some other practical tips for winterizing your home by identifying air leaks, installing weather stripping and other techniques for insulating your living space.

"One good way to locate air leaks inside, is to hold a lighted candle around the frames of windows, doors and electrical outlets, checking to see if the flame quivers. Unused outlets commonly expel cold air and can be plugged with outlet covers, available for a couple of dollars at any home supply store.

Weather-stripping installation kits - which usually come with three strips of metal, vinyl or wood (about $20) - and door sweeps (about $10) can help prevent leaks around doors. Nail or screw the strips into the door frame, and then attach the sweep to the bottom edge of the door.

Old windows can be particularly drafty. One easy fix is to buy an inch-thick strip of foam, sometimes called a draft stopper, that can be cut to size and inserted in the gaps along the sashes (around $10 for a canister). It can also be used along the edges of air-conditioning units installed directly in the wall or permanently in a window.

Another solution is to attach window-insulating shrink-wrap film around the frame with double-sided tape, and then seal it in place with a hairdryer (about $10 for enough to cover a couple of windows). There's one hitch, though: for the duration of winter, your windows will be covered in the film, which many people find unsightly.

Thick curtains can work wonders at blocking drafts, and they look much nicer, but make sure to open them when it's sunny so that the natural light can heat up the space."

Over the course of owning your home, the most cost-effective and energy efficient solution will be to have new windows and doors installed by experts . And with the tax credits available through 2010, no money down and deferred interest financing, it's only a few clicks of the mouse to make the change. But, if you need a quick fix to beat the winter chill or summer heat, hopefully these tips will come in handy for you.

-JJ

The Holidays are right around the corner... Christmas lights are going up, those pesky in-laws are coming to town and I've already packed on five pounds from the cookies being left in the Window Factory coffee room.

To get in the spirit of the season, the Window Factory is making a special holiday offer to all of our customers with a free upgrade to Low-e3 glass when purchasing new replacement vinyl windows or doors before December 30^th.

Energy-efficient Low-e3 glass provides three layers of year-round thermal protection, a clear coating that blocks solar gain and reflects heat while letting the light stream in.

The full-year benefits of LoĒ³-366 can be clearly seen. When the temperature soars in the summer, ordinary window glass just can't beat the heat. And tinted glass spoils the view. LoĒ³-366 is formulated to reject solar heat while maintaining attractive visibility. So it keeps the heat out while letting light in. As a matter of fact, LoĒ³-366 glass is our ultimate in performance and clarity among all of Cardinal's clear coated products.

What is more, LoĒ³-366 provides the ultimate in fading protection. It blocks 95% of the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays - a leading cause of fading (visible light also contributes to fading) - so your furniture, carpets, curtains and wall coverings stay beautiful for years.

We're kicking off a new feature on The Window Factory blog called "From the Field" where we'll highlight some of the custom window and door installations we're doing around the county.

This week, we've got some pictures to share from a newly improved home in Oceanside. The owner of this home was tired of his old single-pane aluminum windows which were prone to cracking and would rattle when heavy vehicles passed by or planes flew overhead.

The homeowner wanted new, custom vinyl windows that would add curb appeal to his property, provide added safety for his family, reduce the ambient noise, and improve his home's energy efficiency.

Our master installers Sid and Francisco snapped these shots of the new, double-pane Solana Windows manufactured in our San Diego factory using special low-e (low-emission) glass.

Not only do these new windows look great and instantly add value to the home, but we expect this customer will see a nice drop in their monthly heating and A/C bills as a result of going with the highly energy efficient low-e glass.

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There's nothing easy about running a business in today's economy. Organizations in every sector are being forced to take a hard look in the mirror and make very difficult decisions in terms of where to focus their energy and where to make reductions.

It's no secret that the home remodeling and construction space has certainly taken a hit over the past two years. At the Window Factory, we've had to carefully examine and rethink every aspect of our business to maximize productivity and find a balance between our incoming business and our operational overhead.

Throughout this process, a few key themes have emerged that I think any business owner or entrepreneur can benefit from while trying to weather this economic storm:

• Never lose track of where you are financially. Track it day by day if you have to.

 

• Don't be afraid to re-evaluate every aspect of the business.

 

• Recognize that those employees who have been a staple of the company for years may not be a good fit now.

 

• Focus on the customer and his/her needs.

 

• Remember that your vendors can be your best allies.

 

It's definitely a challenging time to keep any business afloat, but with great challenges come great opportunities. Here at the Window Factory we've taken advantage of this chapter of our company history to get innovative in how we manage our operations, how we communicate with customers and how we work with our vendor partners.

By keeping these tips in mind on a daily basis, we're confident that we'll emerge a stronger company once the economy does turn around.

-JJ

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The folks over at San Diego Gas & Electric are getting serious about energy efficiency these days. They've just launched a new web campaign called Go Green Save Green, designed to help the San Diego community find the best deals on green appliances and home improvements, do an energy analysis on their homes or learn techniques for improving the energy efficiency.

There is also a handy tool to sign up for paperless billing in order to reduce paper waste and the energy required to transport the mail. Talk about saving green...have you seen the price of stamps these days?!

While you're on their site, check out the Complimentary Home Energy & Water Savings Kit, a free kit that includes three faucet aerators and a low-flow showerhead to maintain a high-pressure flow while reducing water usage up to 11%.

They also provide a great overview of alternative energy sources that are already being used to meet the energy needs of San Diego County. Check out the full details after the jump.

-JJ

Renewable energy comes from resources that are considered to be constantly replenished and environmentally beneficial.

Wind

Wind turbines typically use two or three long blades to collect the energy in the wind and convert it to electricity. The blades spin as the wind blows over them and converts this movement into electricity as the spinning blades turn a connected generator.

Solar

There are two general ways to convert solar energy into electricity: photovoltaic and solar-thermal technologies.

Photovoltaic systems have wafers made of silicon or other conductive materials. When sunlight hits the wafers, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in the release of electricity.

Solar-thermal technologies concentrate the sun's rays with mirrors or other reflective devices to heat a liquid to create steam, which is then used to turn a generator and create electricity.

Biogas (Landfill And Sewage)

Biogas is created when microorganisms cause organic waste, such as food wastes and paper, to decompose in landfills.

In biogas energy projects, landfill gas is burned in boilers, reciprocating engines, and combustion turbines to produce electricity.

Biomass ("Green Waste")

Biomass facilities use wood, paper, tree trimmings or other similar products as fuel.

These products are burned, producing heat that is then used to turn a steam turbine, which in turn moves a generator to produce electricity. These facilities must meet all local and state emission requirements.

Geothermal

Uses heat from beneath Earth's surface to provide heat and generate electricity. There are currently three ways to generate electricity from geothermal resources:

• In Dry Steam plants, dry steam is fed directly into a turbine for power production
• Flash Steam plants use pressurized water from below ground to flash into steam to be run through the turbine with the excess water reinjected into the underground reservoir
• Binary power plants transfer the heat of the geothermal fluid to a separate "working" fluid, which boils to vapor and is directed into a turbine for power production.

Hydroelectric Power Technologies

Hydroelectric power uses the movement of water to produce electricity. California law severely limits the types of hydroelectric power that can be considered as renewable due to growing concerns about effects on fish and other wildlife.

These facilities must be smaller than 30 MW and typically consist of hydro generators placed in water aqueducts. The generator spins as water flows through the aqueduct, producing electricity.

Friends of the Factory

This week I headed out to Fillippi's Spaghetteria in Little Italy for a birthday celebration honoring Bobby Fillipi, a long time friend of ours here at the Window Factory. Aside from making a mean slice of pizza, Bobby is also one of the main boxing promoters in San Diego who has worked hard to keep the sport thriving in our area.

As some of you may know, I'm almost as crazy about baseball as I am about boxing. So you can imagine my surprise when some world champions walked into the party to wish Bobby a happy birthday.

Here I am with the boys from Park View in Chula Vista, winners of the 2009 Little League World Series. The "Baby Blue Bombers" represented San Diego with a 6-3 victory over Chinese-Taipei in the championship game, played in front of a stadium crowd with over 30,000 fans and millions of TV viewers around the world.

Let's hope the Padres' farm team has some of these players coming to training camp soon! The full story on Park View's championship game is below.

-JJ

 

From NBC San Diego:

Things did not start well for Park View. Chinese Taipei hit back-to-back home runs in the third inning to take a 3-0 lead.

 

But a three-run lead is not much against Chula Vista.

 

In the bottom of the fourth inning, Chula Vista was able to close the gap to 3-2 with their slugger, Kiko Garcia, at the plate. Instead of a home run, Taiwan's catcher let's one get away, allowing just enough time for the player on third to come home on the passed ball. After an intentional walk to Luke Ramirez, Bulla Graff singled to right field to give Chula Vista its first lead, at 4-3.

 

In the fifth inning the crowd was chanting "P-V-L-L" and the team listened. They weren't giving anything up.

 

Chinese Taipei threatened in the very next inning. With runners on first and second, Garcia walked the next batter to load the bases with one out. The next batter for Chinese Taipei grounded to short stop Andy Rios, who tagged the runner headed to third, and then threw to first for a double play to end the inning and the threat.

 

Park View got some breathing room in the bottom of the fifth. With two out and two on base in the inning, Seth Godfrey connected with a drive down the left field line to plate Park View's fifth run. The next batter, Rios, also delivered an RBI hit to make it, 6-3.

 

Later in the inning: Chinese Taipei's worst nightmare. The bases were loaded for 6-foot-2 Luke Ramirez as he stepped to the plate. The first baseman connected, sending one deep -- really deep -- to center field. Thoughts of a Grand Slam ran through fans' heads -- but it wasn't meant to be. The center fielder caught the fly ball only inches away from being a home run. Park View still led, 6-3, going into the final inning.

 

In the final inning, Garcia retired the first two batters and then hit the third. That put a runner on base with two out. But Garcia was too much for the Chinese Taipei batter, who struck out to end the game.

 

For Park View fans that couldn't travel to Williamsport to see the game in person, there was one place to be. Fans arrived at Oggi's pizza hours before the game's first pitch just to get a seat.

 

"It's awesome, it's incredible, so surreal, it's like a dream," Brett Joiner said.

 

Some stood and others chose to dine in the waiting area. Everyone had their eyes glued to the national broadcast carrying a team's dream of winning it all back to the home town.

 

"It's crazy, it's beautiful. At times like this everyone is united. You can hear the noise," Nick Milligan said amid an excited crowd.

 

Were they keeping their emotions in check? Not at Oggi's.

"Three up, three down," one fan shouted in elation.

 

The bar erupted as Park View squashed a late rally with an inning ending double play and then came the hugs and even tears.

 

"Oh my gosh, this is unreal, this is awesome, they deserve it," Carol Ruiz said. "All the way, world champs. Woo hoo Park View!"

 

Park View is now the first team from San Diego County to win the Little League World Series in more than 40 years. So, now that they've won it all, what happens next? Well, let the celebrations continue.

http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/sports/Baby-Blue-Bombers-in-the-Lead-in-Explosive-Game-.html

From the Factory

When designing our manufacturing processes here at The Window Factory, we consider the environmental impact that every action may have on the environment.

Over the past 13 years, we've learned that the best way to reduce manufacturing waste is not to create it in the first place. We've made significant investments to acquire specialized equipment, such as the computerized glass cutting saw seen here, that enable us to make precise cuts and get the most windows from each slab of raw glass that comes into the factory.

Once a slab of raw glass is cut into sections, our technicians working on the factory floor cut them down by hand based on the custom specifications for the home where they will be installed.

The same is true for all the durable, vinyl housings we use for our windows.

The raw materials are broken down with specialized saws, then finished by hand to ensure that the majority of the material ends up as part of a window and not in the waste bin.

Greetings Window Factory Friends and Family,

John Jedynak here…..As you can see, a lot of changes are afoot here at WindowFactory.com. We’re pretty excited about our brand new website design which will give you access to special offers and online coupons, fancy features like our online energy efficiency calculator, as well as loads of information on the latest window technologies employed in our factory and techniques used by our expert installers.

One the big changes we’re especially excited about is our new company blog which will be dedicated to covering the latest Window Factory company developments, and providing helpful tips and expert insight into home remodeling, energy efficiency and green construction. You’ll even get some colorful commentary on the local San Diego economy and business community, especially if I need to set somebody straight!

The main point of the blog is to have some fun and stay in constant communication with our customers, partners and colleagues in the San Diego within community and worldwide. We hope you’ll bookmark the blog and check in often. Please leave a comment when you read something that is helpful, want to share your expertise, send us a tip or leave a rant about a topic we’ve covered…all feedback is welcome.

Thanks for taking the time to check out our new site and blog. It’s certainly a new era for The Window Factory as we make the leap into the blogosphere and we appreciate you’ll come along for the ride.

-JJ

All Low-E Windows are NOT Created Equal

If you're in the market for replacement widows, it's important to remember that not all low-e windows are created equal. In fact, just because a window or manufacturer has an Energy Star certification doesn't mean that the window they're trying to sell you will qualify for the federal tax credit.

We wanted to share some insight from the Efficient Windows Collaborative into the four main factors to consider when evaluating the energy efficiency of a window's components: Insulation Value (U-factor), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), visible transmittance, and air leakage.

Insulation value (U-factor) When there is a temperature difference between inside and outside, heat is lost or gained through the window frame and glazing by the combined effects of conduction, convection, and radiation. The U-factor of a window assembly represents its insulating value.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) Regardless of outside temperature, heat can be gained through windows by direct or indirect solar radiation. The ability to control this heat gain through windows is measured in terms of the solar heat gain coefficient of the window.

The SHGC is the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window or skylight, both directly transmitted, and absorbed and subsequently released inward. It is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window's solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits, and the greater its shading ability.

Visible Transmittance (VT) Visible transmittance is an optical property that indicates the portion of in- coming visible light transmitted through the window (also referred to as visible light transmittance - VLT).

It affects energy by providing daylight that creates the opportunity to reduce electric lighting loads and thus, indirectly, reduce cooling loads through reduced lighting use.

Air Leakage (AL) Heat loss and gain also occur by air leakage through cracks in the window assembly. This effect is measured in terms of the amount of air that passes through a unit area of window under given pressure conditions. Air leakage may also contribute to summer cooling loads by raising the interior humidity level.

Well, it turns out that Wall Street isn't getting every last dime of stimulus money from Uncle Sam. The feds are offering some pretty impressive tax credits for homeowners who improve the energy efficiency of their properties...up to $1500!

One of the best ways you can take advantage of this stimulus fund is by installing EnergyStar certified, low-emission (low-e) windows from the Window Factory. We're an EnergyStar certified manufacturer so you can trust us to help you save some green by going green.

According to the EnergyStar website, the $1500 tax credit for home improvements are based on the following rules of eligibility:

- Improvements must be "placed in service" from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010

- Improvements must be for taxpayer's principal residence, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, and small wind energy systems (where second homes qualify)

- $1,500 is the maximum total amount that can be claimed for all products placed in service in 2009 & 2010 for most home improvements, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, fuel cells, and small wind energy systems which are not subject to this cap, and are in effect through 2016

- Materials used must have a Manufacturer Certification Statement to qualify

- For record keeping, save your receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement

- Improvements made in 2009 will be claimed on your 2009 taxes (filed by April 15, 2010) - use IRS Tax Form 5695 (2009 version) - it will be available late 2009 or early 2010

One important thing to remember is that not all EnergyStar labeled windows qualify for the tax credit. Any window purchased after June 1st, 2009 must have U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings of 0.30 or less. Not only do our low-e windows fit this stringent energy efficiency standard, but the Window Factory will provide you with the Manufacturer Certification Statement that you'll need to take advantage of this tax credit.

Sound Confusing? Don't worry.... Just give us a call at 866-945-0567 to discuss how you can get in on the tax credit and increase the value of your home with EnergyStar certified low-e windows from the Window Factory. Better yet, swing by our showroom and come say hello.

-JJ