Accessorize Your Windows and Add Interest and Function

If you’re planning on replacing your windows, consider going a step farther with your upgrade and add acessories that will increase functionality and add beauty.  Just as the right jewelry can put the finishing touches on a woman’s outfit, the right window accessories can complete the look and add curb appeal.  Here  are just a few of the things you can include:

• Shutters and Shutter Dogs.  Shutters add a traditional charm and appeal to a home like few other things do.  Shutters can either be functional, which is especially helpful in areas that experience high winds, or they can be non-operable and serve merely as decorative accents.  Shutter dogs work to hold back the shutters when open (on operable shutters) or an additional decorative accent on fixed shutters.  Dogs come in a wide variety of style options, from the classic swirl to fruits or animals.
• Latches.  Window latches serve a dual purpose – they keep windows closed and in place, and they prevent entry by uninvited visitors.  Many window companies offer both contemporary and traditional old-world spoon-type latches in a variety of metal and painted finishes.  Specify your latch choice when you order your windows so that you get the right ones for your particular window model.
• Locks.  Window locks are an additional safety feature and work along with – but not in place of – window latches.  Locks are usually key operated and provide a higher level of safety, making the windows much more difficult to open from the outside.  These can be bought at most hardware stores.   If you do install locks, make sure the residents of your home know where to find the key!
• Grilles. Exterior grilles are different than the wood or vinyl mullions installed in window panes (usually called divided light).  Exterior grilles provide increased safety if that is a concern for your area.  Usually made of wrought iron, window grilles are normally custom made and are permanently installed on your window frames or exterior walls.  You can choose from many design options, from sleek contemporary to styles reminiscient of ornate Spanish or Mediterranean architecture.
• Guards.  If you have children and a home of more than one story, window guards can provide extra piece of mind.  They consist of two or three bars installed over the interior of the window to prevent a child from falling out an open window.  They do not interfere with operation of the window or screen.
• Tinting Film.  This film acts much like sunglasses for your windows.  It is especially helpful for windows which get a lot of direct sun.  Window tinting film helps reduce the glare from bright sunlight and actually can improve your view while cutting down on the amount of heat entering your home from the sun to keep your home cooler.  Window tinting film is available as a do-it-yourself kit, but best results are usually obtained by hiring a professional.  Some window manufacturers offer window tinting as an option when you order new windows.

Whatever style of new replacement windows you choose, consider adding one or more of these options to complete the look and function.  If you have questions about what’s available with today’s high tech replacement windows, contact Window Outfitters today at 952-746-4661 in the Minneapolis area, or 651-209-1001 in St. Paul.

Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.