"Russ is fantastic. He is very professional and made our decisions easy. He brought several samples and explained the benefits of each tint. I would recommend him to anyone needing windows done."
"We looked at several options for replacing our siding. We settled on Hardiplank on the front and Cedar Impressions on the sides and back along with new gutters and leaf guard. Then came the task of finding the right contractor and reviewing multiple bids. Not all contractors we found worked with these (particularly the Cedar Impressions). Bel Islands made a great first impression. I found Bel Islands from an online search and all the reviews were very positive, especially about the responsiveness, personal attention and quality of work. Andrei came over within a day or so to review the job and understand what we wanted to do. He provided valuable suggestions on some detail work that would both make it look nice and be more functional. He treated the job and made suggestions as if it was his house. He was very responsive as we went back and forth on color selections and some additional ideas. The team that did the work was great. They worked not only quickly (through some very hot days), but the attention to detail was great and it showed in the finished product. We had reviewed proposals from several contractors. Bel Islands pricing was very reasonable for what was being done and the overall value was fantastic as we were very pleased with our interactions with both Andrei and the installation team....as well as the great quality of work. I am not sure what better reference can be provided than just saying.....I would definitely use Bel Islands again for future projects."
"I needed someone to put two window AC units in place and Thiago has taken care of this for me for three seasons now. He is super and he has a person who helps him with the installation and removal of two units. He always reaches out to schedule time to do this for me and he always notifies me of his arrival time. He is professional, polite, efficient and caring."
"Konstantin has become our first call when we have any questions about our house. He personally came to our home and spent a few hours talking with me about possible solutions to the many problems our Cape Cod home had. In the end, the investment of time and money was substantial, but we could not be more happy with the end result: new windows, siding, roof, doors and an extensive interior architectural reconstruction that no one else wanted to touch. The entire Kreative Barnes team is professional, friendly, respectful and talented. Whoever is able to secure Konstantin's expertise will be very happy they did."
Depending on size, material, and labor, two windows can cost between $600 and $1,600.
Impact windows are a type of window made with impact-resistant glass, designed specifically for hurricanes. The glass, treated with ethylene-vinyl, can withstand winds up to 200 mph, as well as flying debris. Brands sometimes test their impact windows with large missile impact tests.
Impact windows may be required in some places. For instance, the Florida Building Code requires homes to have impact-resistant windows if they live within a mile of the coast where wind speeds can reach 110 mph or more.
In addition to window well covers or bars, you can take a few more steps to boost basement window security. Try motion-activated lighting; it scares off potential intruders by lighting up when someone gets too close. Strengthening your window glass with impact-resistant security film can also deter forced entry. A dependable home security system with window sensors and cameras offers real-time monitoring and alerts for added protection. Lastly, fostering good relationships with neighbors can establish a supportive community watch network, enhancing your home's safety.
Casement windows are safer against intruders than double-hung windows because they are extremely difficult to pry open from the outside. However, if you’re concerned about young kids or pets, double-hung windows have safety features you might prefer. With double-hung windows vs. single-hung or casement windows, you can lock the bottom sash and open just the top sash to keep children and dogs or cats safe.
Yes, storm windows should be tempered. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, tempered glass is stronger and can withstand temperatures higher than laminated glass. Tempered glass is important for storm windows because it protects against outside elements and household accidents by not producing sharp, jagged pieces when it breaks or shatters.
The Brewster, MA homeowners’ guide to window services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Bigger windows mean more natural light in your space and better views of the outdoors. Learn about the cost to enlarge windows and what affects your total.
Buying windows can be complex. There are a ton of things to consider before buying to ensure you’re making the right choice for your home. Explore more here.