Monday, April 15, 2013

Open Porch to Sunroom with Styleline

Enjoy outdoors without the bugs
Existing Porch into a four season room.











Got an open porch that you want to enclose? Looking to grow your living space without breaking the bank? Want to increase your home enjoyment?

Imagine sun-soaked days and moon-drenched evenings with your own Custom Styleline Patio Enclosure.

Construction takes less time than a regular addition. There is minimal disruption to your  property. And, you will be able to utilize your deck space long into the seasons. Styleline's Custom Patio Enclosure systems flow with your home's architecture. Either your a contractor or homeowner, we will help you step by step to get you in your space. We can even have it designed to install from the inside of your space. This helps installation of the room on a second story porch.

We can custom build to your specifications right here in Wisconsin and have it delivered to your door.   With high quality products we can customize your space with Riviera Slider windows or our new product the Riviera 4 track memory vinyl windows.  The Riviera 4 track memory vinyl windows are popular with enclosing that hot tub or pool, so you have year round enjoyment.

Give us a call to talk to a sales representative or find a dealer near you at 1-888-323-0594.

Riviera Sliding Windows 
Riviera 4 Track Memory Vinyl Windows



Monday, April 8, 2013

Spring Cleaning Check List

With the hard winter behind us we now are feeling the spring cleaning fever.  Here is a check list for you to help with maintaining the outside of your home.

1.  Make sure your windows and doors are functioning properly.

2.  Repair any screens that may have been damaged.

3.  Check your locks and hinges. Make sure they are working smoothly.

4.  Pressure wash the outside of your home and touch up any paint.

5.  Check the flashing around your window and doors make sure all gaps are filled with caulk.

6.  Clean out your gutters look for sagging and repair as needed.

7.  Remove any birds and insect nests from our exterior to prevent damage.

8.  Clean screens on roof vents.

9.  Check foundation for signs of termites.

10.  Clean your air conditioning unit and change the air filters.

If you have more handy spring cleaning tips share with us below in the comments. Happy Spring Cleaning!

To help with your cleaning, we have included a how to remove sashes for our 2 track Storm windows, see below.





Monday, April 1, 2013

Going Green with Awnings

Reduce your carbon footprint with Styleline Awnings
Saving money with the benefits of helping the environment can be achieved in one home improvement addition.... Awnings.

Awnings have been around since the Egyptian era. Egyptians used awnings as a way to keep cool on hot days and to protect the goods they are selling from the elements.  It was not til the 19th century that aluminum awnings replaced fabric awnings in colder weather climates. Aluminum awnings could stand up to the snow and heavy rains, where the fabric awnings would need more maintenance.

By decreasing the amount of heat and air conditioning you use, can reduce the overall energy in the community that is fueled by fossil fuels.  This reduces your carbon footprint and costs of heating and cooling of your home.  When it is extremely hot, the sun is heating up our homes. When it is cold, we want the sun to warm up our homes. and with extreme weather we want to protect our homes and windows.  Awnings can provide this to your home. Other benefits of awnings can be add extra room for parties outside with protection from the weather, protect your furniture and carpets from fading and shelter children and pets from direct contact of the sun.

Styleline awnings and canopies are constructed of the finest materials. Side venting allows maximum air flow. Panels are bonded together with aircraft rivets, not sheet metal screw, eliminating rattles and vibration noise.  Louvered panels let in diffused light so rooms are bright, yet furniture and carpets do not fade. They block harmful ultraviolet rays and protect and shield your home from harmful weather. Each awning is custom made to fit the exact window or door in your home. With virtually no maintenance adding comfort and elegance to your home.

Go Green with Styleline Awnings call 1-888-323-0594.







Monday, March 18, 2013

DIY is it for me?

DIY is trending in the home improvement industry. Television and the Internet instructs us how easy home improvement can be.  It is really so simple?  Can DIY really save you money?  These are some good questions you should be asking yourself when you take on your home improvement projects.  Investing in your home improvement is a important decision that can be rewarding or a money pit if you are not prepared or have the proper skills to do it yourself.

Here is a couple of quick questions you should ask yourself to see if you are ready to tackle a big project as home improvement.

1. Are you a hard worker that is patient and enjoys physical labor?

2. Do you have the skills and tools to complete the project?

3. Are you familiar with the city codes and building permits that are required?

4. Will you be able to get all the materials you need?  If not will your supplier deliver?

5. How long will your project take to complete?  Do you have the spare time?

6. What happens if you have a mistake, do you have the extra funds to get it fixed?

If you could answer "yes" to all these questions, you might be ready to take on you home improvement project. If  "no" was your more common answer you should consider hiring a contractor.

You have looked at your home improvement project and decided it is time to hire a contractor.  Hiring the right contractor for you can save you money, time and stress. Here is some crucial questions to ask a contractor before you hire them for your home project.

1. Do they have creditable references?

2. How long have they been in business?

3. Do they pictures of the work they have completed?

4. Do they have the proper licences for their business?

5. Will they give you a written agreement outlining what work will be done?

6. Will they give you an exact price or just an estimate?

7. Will they take care of the permits and inspections?

8. Is the work they do guaranteed?

Weather you decide do it yourself or hire a contractor, do your homework.  Be prepared, do a budget, and know the project you are going to tackle.





Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Window Cleaning Tips



Spring is almost here.  We are getting that itch to open our windows and get fresh air back into our homes.  When you go to open those windows, what do you find but a winters worth of dust and grime.  So, the spring cleaning bug has begun.  

Washing windows can be a daunting task. To help you with this chore we have tested out some techniques that may be useful for you. Take a look and let us know what time saving methods you use in the comments below.  





































In our first test we tried the store window cleaner.  As seen in the picture above after wiping down it seemed to leave streaks.  Next, we used store dish washing liquid.  The dish washing liquid left no streaks.  

We tackled glass windows, but what if you have a vinyl window? What can you use?  Extreme care must be taken when cleaning the vinyl window.  Do not use any harsh cleaners or detergents.  Bleach and formulas containing bleach should be avoided.  It is important not to use a pressure washer.  We recommend a special vinyl cleaner.  This has been specially formulated for the vinyl windows.  This cleaner can be purchased from Styleline just call 1-888-323-0594.

For best results, your windows needs to be cool before washing.  Make sure all dust and loose sand and grit has been removed from all areas of the frame.  Best way to do this is use a soft brush attachment with your vacuum cleaner.  

Give us you opinion below. Let us know what you use for effective window cleaning.






Monday, March 11, 2013

Preparing for Storms

Protect your home from extreme elements with storm windows!

Every change of season we can experience a variety of extreme weather. One day it will be an ice storm or a thunderstorm, the next, extreme wind (possible tornadoes and hurricanes).

Severe storms can cause large destruction to our electric systems.  It takes a while to clear away debris and repair damage.  People could be without power for a few days. Take the necessary steps ahead of time to be prepared.

Another reason is flying objects and high winds. These conditions can be havoc on your home. Taking action now to protect your home and your family can save lives and reduce damage.


How to Prepare for Power Outage and Wind Storms

1. If power goes out you need to report it right away.  If you smell gas call your gas company immediately.  Have your power and gas company phone number available.

2. If someone in your household has to depend on a life support device have your special 24 hour hotline number ready.  Have an evacuation plan for all locations. Consider home, work, and school/daycare. Check in your area and see if you have any neighbors with special needs that may benefit from your assistance.

3. Learn how to manually open your garage door, security doors, or any electronically operated devices.

4. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged.

5. Keeping the refrigerator and freezer door closed helps keep your food cold. Turn off stoves. Unplug any devices.

6. Make sure your gas is filled in your car, in case you need to travel to a safer location.

7. Fill your bathtub with water and any other buckets or containers you can find.  You will need this to flush your toilets and have spare water for cleaning.

8. Get cash.  It is always good to have emergency cash available unexpected expenses.  And with the power out you might not have access to buy items with your debit card.

9. Plan your family food and lodging needs.  If you are unable to use you electric stove have a gas or charcoal grill with matches available. Plan an alternative destination if you need to evacuate your home.

10. Put together a disaster supply kit, include garbage bags, duct tape, put matches and important papers in plastic bags, disposable wipes, batteries, flashlights, battery operated radio, candles, tools, first aid kit, pet supplies, manual can opener.

11. Find a safe room in your home,  pick a room with no windows preferably a in basement.  If evacuated  because of a hurricane find a alternative location away from the storm.

12. Plan one week of  meals. In your safe room put canned food, water, paper plates, cups and silverware, and a garbage can. Put these items in totes for easy travel if evacuated.

13. Conduct a safety check of your home.  Fix any torn roof shingles.  Keep gutters clear of debris. Consider replacing windows or protecting them with storm windows to protect against flying objects. Windows should be weather tight and trimmed. Put away any lawn furniture or loose objects outside your home, like potted plants and shovels. Repair any broken fences.

Stay calm, be alert and stay up to date on weather conditions. Taking these steps helps you get peace of mind that you and your family are ready when the extreme weather hits.






Monday, March 4, 2013

Screen Enclosures vs Big Box Screen Enclosures



Before you decide on a patio enclosure, know that every porch is unique.  We want you to choose the room that will fit your family and lifestyle.  Comparing the total costs, materials, and work associated in both choices will help you get into the space you have been dreaming of.  We have put together a comparison chart for you to make the best choice for your needs.


      Enlcosure Options


Styleline Screen Enclosure

Big Box Screen Enclosure
Maintenance
Aluminum roof and panels
Maintenance free
Galvanized metal with vinyl roof  may need replacing within a year from tears and shrinkage
Warranty
20 year limited
1 year against normal wear and tear, no warranty against acts of nature
Roof
Aluminum Pan Roof
2 Ply Vinyl Roof
Sturdy in heavy weather
Never has to be disassembled, may add glass windows for a 4 season effect.
Has to be taken down during heavy weather
Size
Unlimited possibilities
Limited sizes, rectangle or square option only
Color
10 colors
3 colors

Cost (144 sq. feet room)
Aprox. list $4000.00
With labor

Aprox. list $1800.00
Self install and $400.00 + per year for replacement of roof or parts damage from weather.
Customer service
One on One design and personal service
Limited knowledge from a part time employee


At the end of the day do you want to spend your time taking down and putting up your room and replacing the roof every year? Or, would you like to enjoy time in your room and with a good book and a warm drink? The decision is yours. Dream about the unlimited possibilities.


Call us for more information and a quote at 1-888-323-0594.