Get matched with top window treatment pros in Mango, FL

It’s easy to tell if you have low-E windows. Light a match or grab a pen light and hold it up to your windows. You should see multiple reflections in the window—four for double-pane windows. If one of the reflections is a slightly different color than the other three, you have low-E windows. If you don’t have low-E windows, all the reflections will be the same color.

In addition to protecting your home from costly storm damage, storm windows increase your home's value if you live in an area that’s prone to severe weather. Storm windows offer about an 80% return on investment (ROI). Therefore, if you install $10,000 worth of storm windows, you can expect to get around $8,000 back if you sell your home within a few years of installation. Additionally, highly hurricane-prone areas, like the Florida coast, offer even higher returns, with ROIs on storm windows reaching up to 86%.

There are several ways to reduce noise coming through your windows. You can seal gaps around the window frames with acoustic caulk or fresh weatherstripping to reduce noise and air leaks. Installing sound-dampening curtains, thick blinds, or shades can also help deaden sound vibrations. For an additional interior barrier, consider installing an acrylic or plexiglass sheet inside the window, which stifles sound while still allowing for outdoor views. Another strategy is to add external barriers, like dense shrubbery or a sturdy fence, to block neighborhood noises. If these methods are not effective enough, it might be time to install new noise-canceling windows.

You should avoid using abrasive materials and harsh chemicals when cleaning windows. Abrasive tools like scrubbing pads, rough cloths, or steel wool can permanently scratch and damage the glass. Harsh chemical cleaners containing alcohol or ammonia can damage window treatments, frame materials, and special features like tinting. It is also best to use distilled or filtered water instead of hard water, which can leave spots or streaks. For best results, use a clean microfiber cloth to wash the glass and old black and white newspapers to dry it without leaving streaks.