Give Windows a Spring Clean

Window washing is a dreaded task that most homeowners don’t bother doing it. But there is nothing like clean glass to help bring the outdoors in and make your house feel really clean. If it has been a while since you gave your windows some love, here are ten of my favorite tricks, tips, and hacks to simplify the job and get your glass gleaming again.

1. Never clean windows when it’s too cold or too warm. A cloudy, overcast day is your best bet for this job. 

2. Instead of relying on reams of paper towels, stop into your local hardware store and grab an eight-inch squeegee for those small panes. They make the job a lot easier with much less waste.

3. Don’t forget to wipe your squeegee blade between swipes to remove access cleaning solution and dirt. Otherwise you’ll just be spreading it around.

4. Here is a great DIY window cleaning solution. Combine one cup of hot water and one cup of white distilled vinegar. Mix in a spray bottle and there you have it. For very grimy windows, clean with hot soap and water first, followed by the vinegar mixture for a nice shine. 

5. To get rid of really pesky streaks, use a dryboard eraser. Unlike paper towels, an eraser can do away with streaks without leaving lint behind. 

6. If you really hate washing windows, take an extra step, and apply a window protectant. The clear polymer coating will help protect the glass from dust, dirt, and grime for longer. 

7. Hard water spots can be tough to remove with a regular window cleaner. A dryer sheet will do the trick, just buff in circular motions. It works on mirrors and shower doors too. 

8. Caterpillars love building nests in window tracks. Clean them out with a thin screwdriver and then follow up with a firm, toothbrush-sized bristle brush. 

9. Hate cleaning blinds? Wrap a pair of kitchen tongs in two microfiber cloths and secure them with an elastic band on either side. Run the tongs between each slat to remove dust and pet dander. 

10. Have a can of WD-40 in the garage? A quick coat on freshly cleaned window sills will prevent dirt and grime from sticking.

If you swear that this round of window washing will be your last, consider upgrading to vinyl windows. The seamless, tilt-in design makes them so easy to clean and they are energy efficient too. It’s one of the best upgrades you can make to your home to save both time and money in the long run. 

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visithttp://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Mold in the Home: A Common Problem in Spring 4-4-24

Mold is an issue that most homeowners have to deal with at one time or another. It’s the damaging by-product of excess moisture that can wreak havoc on your home, and more importantly, your health. With spring in full swing, now is a good time to inspect your house for mold and get rid of it before it does any kind of serious damage. 

You might be familiar with mold or mildew from your shower or bathtub. Since the shower is often wet and the tiles are waterproof, water can sometimes seep into the grout. If the grout is old and can’t handle its repelling duties properly, it becomes a breeding ground for mildew which can generally be cleaned with a good scrub. But what happens when mold starts to grow in the places you can’t clean as easily – places like your ceiling, inside your walls, or in the attic? You’re probably saying, “Not in my house”. Well, guess again.

At least half the homes I visit for remodeling projects have a major mold problem and the owners don’t even know it. How? Because mold generally grows in places that you can’t see – like inside the walls and in the attic. What most people don’t realize is that mold reproduces by releasing spores that you’re breathing in day after day.

How common is this? If you’ve ever had a leak, you’ve most likely had a mold problem. So what can you do about it? You can prevent mold by ensuring your home stays dry. Here are my top tips:

1. Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and clear so water can drain away from the foundation of your house. 

2. Make sure the ground around your house doesn’t slope inward towards the foundation where water can idle.

3. Don’t let a leaky roof go unfixed.  Get it patched up immediately and ask your contractor to inspect for any mold growth.

4. Inside the house, beware of any discoloration on the ceiling.

5. Ensure high moisture areas like bathrooms are well-ventilated with good ceiling fans that don’t vent into the attic.

6. If a leak happens in a carpeted area, don’t just leave it to dry. A damp area can attract mold in less than 48 hours.

7. Ensure large appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines have a catchment tray in case of a malfunction.  

8. If you think your house or basement is susceptible to high moisture, consider purchasing a dehumidifier to regulate the humidity and remove any excess moisture from the air.

If you’ve had a mold problem that you’ve tried to control by scraping, cleaning, and repainting the area, don’t make the same mistake twice. If the mold keeps coming back, that means the issue runs deeper than the eye can see. It’s time to call in the pros.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Upgrade Your Home Comfort with Replacement Windows

If you're considering an energy-efficient upgrade that adds value to your home, replacement windows might just be the answer. Whether you're tired of being cold during Connecticut winters or you’re sick of cleaning sticking, stubborn windows, finding the right product can make all the difference. Let's dive into what you need to know to navigate the world of replacement windows like a pro.

Weatherproof Warriors: Snowstorms in winter, scorching summers, and everything in between - that's Connecticut for you. When it comes to replacement windows, durability is key. Opt for materials like vinyl or fiberglass known for their ability to stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws their way.

Chill Out on Energy Bills: Who likes throwing money out the window? Look for windows with top-notch energy efficiency ratings. Think double or triple-pane glass with Low-E coatings to keep your home cozy in winter and cool in summer without breaking the bank.

Seal the Deal: Ever feel a draft even when your windows are closed? That's a sign it's time for an upgrade. Insulated frames and tight seals keep the elements where they belong – outside. Say goodbye to chilly drafts and hello to snug, comfortable living spaces.

Let There Be Light (but not UV): Sunshine is great until it starts fading your furniture. Look for replacement windows with UV-resistant coatings to protect your home's interior while still letting in plenty of natural light.

Stay Strong Against Storms: While hurricanes might not be a daily concern, strong winds and storms can still pack a punch. Choose windows with impact-resistant glass to safeguard against unexpected surprises from Mother Nature.

Style Points: Replacement windows aren't just about function – they're a chance to amp up your home's curb appeal. Explore different styles, colors, and grille patterns to find the perfect fit for your home's vibe.

Leave It to the Pros: Sure, DIY projects can be fun, but when it comes to replacement windows, leave it to the experts. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation, maximizing your windows' performance and lifespan.

Check for Perks: Before you sign on the dotted line, do a little digging. Are there any local rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient windows? Every little bit helps so check out EnergyStar.gov or EnergizeCT.com and talk to your contractor about what’s available. 

In a nutshell, replacement windows are a game-changer when it comes to home comfort and energy efficiency. By choosing durable, energy-efficient windows and enlisting the help of professionals for installation, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a cozier, more stylish home – no matter what the weather throws your way.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.