"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."
Soundproof windows can be energy efficient, depending on the window type and manufacturer. Overall, triple-pane windows are more energy efficient than double-pane windows. However, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, a window’s energy-efficiency level is determined by multiple factors, including the frame material, if there’s any low-emissivity (low-E) glass, and the addition of spacers.
If you live in a colder region, consider installing double- or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings, which can trap heat and keep your house warm. In hot areas, windows with reflective coatings and insulated frames help keep cooling costs down. If you experience a lot of extreme weather, then impact-resistant glass might be a worthwhile investment.
The biggest disadvantages of low-E windows have to do with cost and, depending on your personal taste, appearance. Low-E windows cost more than traditional windows—typically between $300 and $1,000 per window, plus installation costs. Though they can save you money in the long run, low-E windows have a hefty upfront price tag. Additionally, low-E windows have a slightly different look than traditional windows. While some people don’t notice it, others say the low-E coating gives windows a hazy look.
Because egress windows are meant for emergency exiting and entering, they need to be an accessible size. The smallest an egress window is allowed to be is 15 inches in width and height, with an opening of around 4 square feet.
Look for stickers at the top or inside of the frame, like in the tracks when the window is open. Some brands also stamp their name onto the frame itself or place it between the panes of glass, although this is less common. If you can’t find the info on the window itself, consider asking your neighbors or HOA.
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.
The cost of new windows heavily depends on their size, but other factors come into play as well. This guide breaks down window costs based on various factors so you can make an informed budget for this project.
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.