Window Replacement & Exterior Services in Smithfield, VA & the surrounding Southside

FAQ


WINDOWS, SIDING, AND MORE

Frequently Asked Questions


Have a residential replacement window or exterior service-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!

Do you offer glass repair and replacement?

No, we don’t handle glass repair or replacement, but we specialize in full window replacements.

What areas do you serve?

At Southside Exteriors, we proudly provide window replacement and installation services throughout the Southside of Virginia, Smithfield, and the surrounding areas. Whether you need energy-efficient window replacement in Franklin, custom window installation in Surry, or affordable replacement windows in Wakefield, our experienced team is here to help.

We also serve homeowners across the Southside, including Isle of Wight, Carrollton, Windsor, and Ivor. No matter where you’re located in the area, our local experts deliver top-quality products and professional installation to keep your home comfortable and beautiful.

Looking for the best window replacement in Smithfield, Surry, or Franklin? Contact us today for a free in-home estimate and discover why homeowners across the region trust Southside Exteriors.

Why should I consider getting replacement windows?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the average home loses more than 30% of its heat through windows. Modern replacement windows are durable and help to lower monthly energy costs, increase the value of your home, reduce maintenance hassles and add beauty to the interior and exterior.

Do replacement windows really pay for themselves?

It’s true if you select high-quality, energy-efficient windows. Replacement windows with insulated frames and energy-efficient glass packages can prevent the transfer of heat and cold into and out of your home all year long. With vinyl or fiberglass windows, maintenance is virtually eliminated – no need to scrape or paint. These energy and maintenance savings may allow you to recoup your window investment within a few years.

How do I know if a window is energy-efficient?

Look for a label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) on any replacement window. The NFRC tests and rates windows based on energy performance, ensuring that the windows meet industry standards. This label guarantees that the windows you select will be energy-efficient for your needs.

What window frame material is the most energy-efficient?

Vinyl or fiberglass frames with multi-chambered construction and fusion-welded corners are the best for energy efficiency. When paired with an insulated frame and a Low-E glass package, they provide superior thermal performance.

What is insulated glass?

Double-pane and triple-pane windows create layers of insulation. In general, the more airspace there is between panes, the better the window’s insulative value. Inert gas fills, such as argon or krypton, slow the transfer of heat or cold into your home. Controlling the amount of convection between the panes of glass means you’ll need less energy to heat or cool your home.

What is Low-E glass?

Among the best options you can have on your windows is a Low-E coating. “Low-E” is short for low emissivity. Low-E glass has a very thin coat of metal on the glass surface to reflect heat, keeping exterior heat out in the summer and interior heat inside in the winter. Low-E glass can also prevent furniture and carpet fading by reducing the amount of ultraviolet radiation that enters your home.

How do I decide which siding material to use?

There are several choices when siding your home. From traditional wood siding to more advanced materials like fiber cement, what’s best for your home depends on many factors including how long you plan to remain in your home, weather conditions, budget, and your tolerance for maintenance.

Wouldn’t it be cheaper to continue painting my wood siding?

Compared to the cost of painting your home every few years, which could add up to more than $50,000 over the life of your home, low-maintenance siding is the best option. Service life is counted in decades so your initial investment in siding your home will be paid back fast.

Does vinyl siding require maintenance?

You should wash vinyl occasionally with mild soap and a garden hose to keep it looking its best.

What is insulated vinyl siding?

Insulated siding has a layer of strong foam insulation attached to the back of the siding panel. The extra layer keeps your home warmer during winter nights and cooler during the summer months. This translates into lower monthly energy bills that over the life of the siding will save you a lot of money.

What is fiber cement siding and how is it made?

Is made of wood fiber, Portland cement, sand and water. The fiber cement mixture is molded and cured under high heat to create a look like wood but lasts longer with minimal maintenance required. James Hardie uses fiber cement siding.

How long does fiber cement siding last?

James Hardie fiber cement siding provides a warranty of 30 or 50 years if it is installed by a certified contractor. When properly maintained, it can last much longer.

Do you offer matching trim and accessories for my siding installation?

Yes. We offer a variety of trim packages to match the aesthetics of your siding and your home.

How much money will I get from my insurance company?

The value of the claim will be made by your insurance company based on a report from the insurance adjuster. The amount to be paid depends on the age of your roof. It may be less than the full cost of repair or replacement because of depreciation. Sometimes, this figure can be negotiated.

What is an ice dam?

Ice dams are formed by the thawing and freezing of melted snow at the eaves. The ice dam can force water up and under shingles, causing leaks. In areas where winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, ice dams can cause serious and expensive damage to a roof and the structure of a home.

Can you represent me during the insurance inspection?

Yes, our inspector can be on hand when your insurance adjuster arrives to inspect the damage and make sure all areas of concern are included in the final report. This ensures you get all the compensation you need for quality repairs.

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