Chicago Roofing, Windows, Doors, Sunrooms & More

Chicago Awnings Make for Great Summers, and Great Savings

Written by Envy Home Services on August 5, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Imagine for a moment you are sitting on your deck in your back yard, a cold drink in hand and nothing but the afternoon ahead. The cool summer breeze is gently rolling across your skin and an attractive awning is perfectly placing a protective and enjoyable shade between you and the summer sun. This is a perfect summer afternoon, all made possible by the comfort of an affordable awning that Envy Home Services can install.

Retractable Awnings in Chicago can not only provide you with amazingly enjoyable experiences, but they can also help protect against unwanted annoyances once inside your home as well. Often there can be blinding glare from unprotected porches, pools, or even windows that an awning can guard against.

In addition to being a wonderful and functional addition to your home, they can also help reduce your monthly energy costs. According to one study retractable awnings can lower air conditioning use by an astounding 77%. They are also believed to reduce both the indoor and outdoor temperatures by as much as 20 degrees. Having Envy Home Services install an awning in Chicago can not only serve as a benefit to your family and budget, but also the future resale value of your home. To top it all off, there are no maintenance costs when winter comes around when the awnings is retractable and can easily be put away.

Envy utilizes award winning Betterliving awnings, which blocks out 94% of harmful UV rays. Contact Envy Home Services for an estimate at 888-847-2531, and see how truly enjoyable your summer can be.

Posted in Awning

Things to Consider When Replacing Chicago Exterior Doors

Written by Envy Home Services on July 29, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Although it is sometimes subtle, when you walk up to a person’s home and knock on their front door we get a sense of who they are. This comes from what the front of their home, and what their front door looks like. When replacing a door, there is a lot to consider and Envy Home Services can help you through that important decision. From assisting in a home’s energy efficiency by cutting down on air leaks and drafts, to the appearance and overall security of your home, there are three things to consider when buying and replacing a new door.

First, consider how the door will fit with the overall look and feel of your home. It is important that the door matches with the architecture of your home and the right front door can increase the initial appeal of your home, whereas the wrong one can actually cause the value of your home to decrease.
Take into account the weather. Chicago and the surrounding area have cold, windy and snowy winters, but also hot and humid summers. With this in mind it is important to make sure that the door you choose is made to not only withstand these extremes, but also be durable and last. This is an important investment.
Safety is critical. Choose a product that will protect you from outside intruders. Doors can be found constructed from a wide variety of materials such as steel, fiberglass, and vinyl, and Envy Home Services has experts available to ask for recommendations on what door will best serve you.

For more information about the doors that Envy offers click HERE, or call (888) 847-2531.

Posted in Doors

Lead-based Paint and Our Commitment to Safety

Written by Envy Home Services on July 20, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Whether you are adding a new sunroom, replacement windows, or updating your old roof

Envy Home Services wants you to know that lead-based paint is a danger to both you and your family. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission the poisonous substance can cause “irreversible brain damage and can impair mental functioning” in youth. In addition to this lead paint has been known to have a profoundly negative effect on mental and physical development including the reduction of a child’s attention span. Even with extremely low levels of lead the substance can have a destructive effect on fetal development.

In adults it can cause notable irritability, difficulty in muscle coordination, and damage to nerves tied to sensory organs including those responsible for controlling the body.

Who is at risk for coming in contact with lead-based paint? Although most new buildings do not contain lead-based paint, a staggering 38 million homes built before 1978 have been constructed with paint that contains lead.

To ensure that the public is safe and that lead-based paint is taken care of properly the Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA) sought to craft a law that would address this important subject. As of April 22, 2010 federal law requires that training for providers be conducted and accredited by the EPA.

Renovation firms now must be certified under the EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule. Individuals who work with lead paint must be trained in l

ead-safe work practices. Envy Home Services is proud to be certified as a Lead Safe Firm by the EPA. We are qualified and committed to making your home improvement project safe and effective. To learn more about lead in paint, dust, and soil visit the EPA website at http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/toolkits.htm

Posted in News

Why is Being a National Sunroom Association Member Important?

Written by Envy Home Services on July 13, 2011 — Leave a Comment

When you are looking for that peaceful retreat to sit and relax in sunrooms are beyond compare. These enclosed outdoor living rooms are installed on a wood or concrete foundation. Sometimes called a patio room, these tranquil rooms allow you to enjoy the wonders of the seasons with out the inconveniences of the outdoors. Not only are they the ideal solution to having a wonderful place to enjoy the environment in complete comfort, but it is also an affordable home improvement that will add to the resale value of your home.
When the time comes to begin a sunroom project it is important to pick a home service that is a member of the National Sunroom Association. The National Sunroom Association is a professional organization devoted to furthering the standards and quality of the sunroom industry. They are an eclectic group of professionals that range from master manufacturers, designers, material suppliers, and the skilled hands of those that install these beautiful rooms.
There are several important reasons why you should work with a NSA member. With the expertise of the organization behind them you will increase the beauty, functionality, and resale vale of your home. Your addition will be professionally designed and engineered in a way that is not only affordable but also crafted to be mindful and respectful of your everyday home living.
Envy Home Services is a proud National Sunroom Association member and Chicago sunrooms are a sincere passion of ours. To request a FREE estimate for your new sunroom call us at 888-847-2531.

Posted in Sunroom

Give Your Old Home a Facelift with Vinyl Siding & New Chicago Windows

Written by Envy Home Services on July 5, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Few exterior improvements will freshen up the look of your home like new vinyl siding and replacement Chicago windows! Replacing old siding with high-quality vinyl siding installed by the certified contractors at Envy Home Services can breathe new life into an older design, dramatically improving curb appeal, increasing energy efficiency and reducing the need for maintenance.

As a leader in siding replacement in Chicago, Envy understands that homeowners want a siding product that will provide lasting performance, year in and year out. That’s why we’re proud to offer premium vinyl siding from Alside, a leading manufacturer of low maintenance exteriors since 1947. Alside siding never needs to be painted, and its color won’t fade or become uneven like inferior vinyl products. Alside vinyl siding provides greater durability, rigidity and wind resistance. This vinyl also offers some unique benefits, such as superior insulation for improved energy efficiency and decreased heating and cooling costs. We can help you select the design and color that will complement your home and your individual sense of style.

Whether you plan to sell your home or stay for decades to come, new Chicago windows are a great investment that can wake up both the interior and exterior of an old home. At Envy, we use the most energy-efficient windows on the market manufactured by Serious Windows. The 301 Series is a low-cost way to increase your home’s value, indoor comfort and save on energy costs. Our 501 Series exceeds ENERGY STAR specifications and is proven to reduce your energy costs, while increasing the value of your home.

If you are considering improvements to your older home, vinyl siding and new Chicago windows are excellent options. Give Envy Home Services a call at 888-847-2531 to learn more about the quality products and superior service we offer. You’ll be glad you did!

Posted in Replacement Windows, Siding, Uncategorized

Choose the Best Chicago Roofing Products

Written by Envy Home Services on June 30, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Your Chicago roofing is the single most important protective barrier between you and the elements, yet it’s often the most neglected component of a home. Your roof helps to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It keeps out snow and rain that would otherwise come seeping right into your living space. The importance of maintaining the quality of your roof cannot be overemphasized. If you have noticed a leak or two, some flashing or shingles out of place, or other damage, it’s time to call Envy Home Services to schedule a comprehensive diagnostic report. Our Chicago roofing experts can recommend repairs that will extend the life of your roof. When needed, we can help you select a high-quality replacement roofing system for your home.

Choosing a new roof for your home can be stressful. What brand is best? How do you know you’re hiring the best subcontractor? With Envy Home Services, you can rest easy knowing that we guarantee all of our products and work. We hire only the most qualified, licensed subcontractors to perform roofing projects and carry the finest roofing brands on the market: GAF and Owens Corning. Timberline Prestique High Definition shingles from GAF-Elk are the top-selling shingles in North America for good reason. They are as attractive as they are tough. If you are looking to replace your entire roofing system, look no further than Owens Corning. From the shingles down to the waterproofing and ventilation, Owens Corning roofing systems are the highest performing and most energy-efficient available.

Have questions? Call 888-847-2531 or visit Envy Home Services today! Our Chicago roofing experts will help you find the new roofing system that is just right for you and your home.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged chicago home improvement contractors, chicago roofing, chicago roofing contractor, roofing chicago

Save Time & Money with Vinyl Window Replacement in Chicago

Written by Envy Home Services on June 22, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Replacement windows from Envy Home Services are available in a wide variety of styles, each offering unique features and benefits. If your next home improvement project will involve windows, vinyl window replacement in Chicago may be the perfect choice for your home. Vinyl windows provide some important advantages for homeowners:

• They are a less expensive replacement option than wood windows.
• Vinyl windows are not susceptible to rotting or termites.
• They require virtually no maintenance to keep them looking attractive.
• Vinyl windows can result in significant savings in the form of reduced heating and cooling loss.

Vinyl is a very durable material that resists most damage from weather and flying objects. It holds up well in extreme weather conditions due to its ability to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. When installed correctly, vinyl window replacement in Chicago can significantly enhance the value of your home, and decrease maintenance costs.

Many folks don’t realize that a large percentage of heat loss from windows happens via the spacer, the channel that separates and holds the two panes of glass in place at the top and bottom of a window. Traditional wood or metal spacers allow nearly 20% more thermal transmittance than their vinyl counterparts. Vinyl windows come in a variety of styles to allow you to achieve any exterior look that you want, so you can revamp your Chicago home at a fraction of the cost of other materials. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why vinyl windows have been increasing in popularity and market share since they were first introduced almost 40 years ago. Call 888-847-2531 to schedule a free introductory consultation, where an Envy Home Services specialist can help you choose the vinyl window replacement in Chicago that meets your needs and price range.

Posted in Replacement Windows, Uncategorized | Tagged chicago windows, replacement windows chicago, st charles window replacement, window replacement chicago, windows aurora, windows chicago, windows naperville, windows schaumburg

3 Tips for Buying the Best Replacement Windows in Chicago

Written by Envy Home Services on June 22, 2011 — Leave a Comment

If your home’s windows are failing, the purchase of replacement windows in Chicago can greatly reduce heating and cooling expenses, as well as increase the overall value of your home. Though this sort of home improvement project can be daunting and often carries a sizable price tag, an experienced window contractor can simplify the process and help you keep costs within your budget.

Here are the most important factors that will influence your purchase and help you find the best windows to meet your needs.

Window location. When selecting windows, always keep in mind the area of the home where each window will be located. Write down the location of each window you want to replace, and its functions. Do you need good air circulation in that area, or is security a more important consideration? Do you need to be able to open and clean the window? Is low maintenance important? Prioritizing the functions of the window will help you choose the best replacement for your needs.

Energy efficiency. Windows in Chicago are often the cause of major heat loss, discomfort and condensation problems. Today’s energy-efficient window options have dramatically reduced these issues. Use government ENERGY STAR ratings to find the window that satisfies your requirements for energy savings. Keep in mind that these ratings can also influence your receipt of tax credits.

Storm windows. Storm windows not only protect against Chicago weather, they also add an extra layer of insulation to your home. Some studies estimate they reduce heat and cooling loss by more than 30%. If energy-efficient windows are out of your price range, adding storm windows could be a good alternative.

Replacement windows from Envy Home Services provide consistent, reliable performance, cost-saving energy efficiency and exquisite beauty. Our attention to how our products are installed and the follow-up service are great reasons to partner with us for your home improvement project. Call us at 888-847-2531 for a FREE estimate!

Posted in Replacement Windows, Uncategorized | Tagged chicago home improvement contractors, chicago windows, replacement windows chicago, st charles window replacement, windows naperville

Determining the Cost of Chicago Sunrooms

Written by Envy Home Services on June 8, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Envy clients have found that adding beautiful new Chicago sunrooms to their homes is a cost-effective way to increase living space and enjoy the outdoors in comfort. There are many variables that influence the final price tag of a sunroom, and prices can vary widely between companies. According to CostHelper, building costs for a modest, four-season sunroom can range from $15,000-$35,000. Remodeling Online estimates that the average national cost to build a four-season sunroom, complete with slab foundation, framing, insulation, windows and flooring, runs from $45,000-$55,000.

If you are considering a Chicago sunroom addition, Envy Homes Services can help you achieve your goal while keeping costs in check. Here are the most important price-determining factors:

Size. The average size of a sunroom project in most parts of the U.S. is about 16′ x 12′. However, sunrooms can be as small as 8′ x 8′ or run the entire length of your home! How you plan to use the room will help to determine the perfect size for your needs.

Materials. The three most commonly used materials in sunroom construction are wood, vinyl and aluminum. Wood combines natural beauty with good insulation properties, but requires more maintenance and is on the high end of pricing. Vinyl sunrooms offer exceptional energy performance, low cost and require little to no maintenance. Aluminum is one of the most popular choices because it is inexpensive, structurally strong, creates more space for windows and comes in a variety of colors. However, it is not a better insulator than wood or vinyl.

Amenities. This category includes many custom features, such as HVAC, flooring, skylights, glass, electrical components, decking, doors and roofing. From luxurious to simple, sunroom options can tailor the room to ideally fit your needs and budget.

For detailed sunroom pricing, as well as important information about your local building and zoning codes, contact Envy Home Services today. Chicago sunrooms are our passion, and customer service is our specialty! Call us at 888-847-2531 to request a FREE estimate.

Posted in Sunroom, Uncategorized | Tagged chicago home improvement contractors, chicago sunrooms, sunrooms chicago

Vinyl Windows in Aurora, Illinois

Written by Envy Home Services on May 1, 2011 — Leave a Comment

Welded vinyl windows have extremely high insulation properties. Not only do they use super insulated glass, but they are also framed by a vinyl system that provides strong insulation around the entire window, not just at the center.

If you’re considering vinyl windows in Aurora, IL, you’ll want to learn more about Envy Home Services. Envy is a local, family-owned company that emphasizes environmentally friendly design. Their vinyl windows are guaranteed to lower energy bills by up to 40 percent through a combination of high-quality materials and first-rate construction.

In the Aurora area, energy-efficient vinyl windows are critical to insulate against extreme temperatures. Just a few of the ways Envy’s SeriousWindows line of vinyl windows improves energy efficiency include:

Multi-chambered profiles with foam insulation
Deep receiver head pocket
Dual durometer glazing for a strong seal
Double seal meeting rail insulator for a tight seal
Deluxe locking systems

Vinyl windows from Envy Home Services are attractive, energy-efficient choices for both new homeowners and families struggling to lower their energy bills. Learn more about the options that are available and request a free quote on vinyl windows in Aurora by calling us today at (888) 847-7954.

Posted in Uncategorized

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