The 5 Top Benefits of Window Replacement 

1. Energy Efficiency: The harsh winters and hot summers in the Northeast can lead to high heating and cooling costs. Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, According to the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy-efficient windows, such as those with Low-E glass and advanced insulation, help reduce energy consumption, maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, and lower utility bills.
2. Improved Comfort: Old or poorly functioning windows can lead to drafts, condensation, and temperature imbalances in the home. Replacement windows can significantly enhance indoor comfort by eliminating drafts and maintaining a more consistent temperature.
3. Enhanced Aesthetics: Upgrading windows can transform the curb appeal of a home. Homeowners often replace windows to give their properties a fresh, updated look, or to match the architectural style of their homes. New windows can also improve interior aesthetics by letting in more natural light and offering better views.
4. Noise Reduction: Windows with acoustic insulation or laminated glass can help create a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.
5. Home Value: Replacing windows is an investment that can increase the resale value of a home. Modern, energy-efficient windows are attractive to potential buyers and can lead to a higher selling price. Homeowners often see a good return on investment when selling their homes with upgraded windows.

It’s important to consider the specific needs and goals of your home when deciding to replace windows. Factors like the age and condition of your existing windows, budget, climate, and personal preferences will influence the decision. Consulting with a local window professional such as Riverhead Building Supply can help you choose the right windows for you.

Replacement Window or Insert Window – What’s the difference?

The choice between a full replacement window and an insert window depends on several factors, including the condition of the existing window and frame, your design preferences, and your budget. If the existing window frame is in good condition and you want a simpler installation, an insert window may be a suitable choice. However, if the frame is deteriorating, or if you want to change the window’s size or style significantly, a full replacement window may be the better option.

Full Replacement Window:

• When you opt for a full replacement window, it typically involves removing the entire existing window unit, including the frame, sashes, and all components. This means that you are essentially starting from scratch, and a new window is installed in its place.
• Full replacement windows are often used when the existing window and frame are in poor condition or when you want to change the window’s size or style. The entire window opening is reconfigured to accommodate the new window, which may involve modifications to the wall structure.
• Since a full replacement window includes its own frame and jamb components, it may result in a slightly thicker frame profile compared to insert windows. This can impact the visible glass area and the overall aesthetics.

Insert Window:

• Installation Method: An insert window, also known as a pocket window or retrofit window, is designed to fit into the existing window opening without disturbing the surrounding frame, interior trim, or exterior siding. It’s a more straightforward and less invasive installation process.
• Preservation of Frame: With insert windows, the existing frame and trim are left in place. Only the old sashes and window unit are removed, and the new window is installed within the existing frame. This method is less disruptive to the home’s structure and aesthetics.
• Thinner Frame: Since an insert window doesn’t replace the existing frame, it typically has a thinner profile than a full replacement window. This allows for a larger visible glass area and can be an advantage if preserving the original frame and trim is desirable.

Our top Replacement Window Solutions from Andersen, Marvin, and MI Windows

When it’s time for window replacement, explore Riverhead Building Supply for windows from Andersen, Marvin, and MI Windows. With a wide variety of styles, quality materials, customization opportunities, affordability, and a commitment to energy efficiency, these trusted brands provide a gateway to improving your home’s comfort and aesthetics. Make your home more beautiful, efficient, and eco-friendly by choosing the right replacement windows and professional installation services for your unique needs.

Read on for our selections of full replacement windows and insert windows.

The Andersen Woodwright Replacement Window and The Andersen Woodwright Insert Window both offer a traditional wood window aesthetic with customization options, but they differ in installation methods and frame profiles.  The primary difference between these two options is the installation method. The Replacement Window is a complete window unit designed to replace the entire window, while the Insert Window is meant to fit into an existing window frame, making it a suitable choice for homeowners who want to upgrade their windows without a full-frame replacement.

The Narroline Replacement Kit is a unique product designed to enhance the energy efficiency of existing Narroline double-hung windows, making it a specialized solution for Andersen’s own product line. 

When choosing among these options, consider your specific needs, including whether you want a full-frame replacement, an insert, or an upgrade for Narroline windows.

Marvin Windows offers a range of replacement window types, with the Ultimate series emphasizing traditional wood or wood-clad materials and a high degree of customization, while the Elevate series utilizes Ultrex fiberglass for durability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in standard sizes. Your choice will depend on your style preferences, budget, and the specific requirements of your home renovation or replacement project.

MI Windows – Affordable Quality

If affordability and quality are your top priorities for replacement windows, MI Windows has you covered:

• Diverse Styles: MI Windows offers a wide variety of replacement window styles to suit your home’s architectural design.
• Quality Materials: MI Windows provides a range of window options crafted from vinyl, aluminum, and composite materials, each offering unique benefits in terms of durability and energy efficiency.
• Energy Efficiency: MI Windows provides energy-efficient replacement windows with features like Low-E glass, advanced weatherstripping, and thermal barriers to reduce energy consumption.
• Customization: MI Windows understands that every home is unique. Their replacement windows can be customized with various frame colors, grid patterns, and sizing options to create a window solution that perfectly complements your home’s aesthetics.
• Affordability: MI Windows is committed to providing affordable window solutions without compromising on quality.
• Warranty: MI Windows stands by the quality of their products and offers solid warranties to provide peace of mind to homeowners. Be sure to review the specific warranty details for the replacement windows you select at miwindows.com.

Window Installation Service – The Key to a Successful Replacement

Window replacement is more than just swapping old windows for new ones; it’s an opportunity to enhance your home.Whether you choose Andersen, Marvin, or MI Windows for your replacement windows, it’s crucial to consider professional window installation services. Installation by Riverhead Building Supply professionals ensures that your new windows are fitted correctly, maximizing their energy efficiency and longevity. Currently, Riverhead Building Supply offers installation services for residents of Nassau and Suffolk Counties in New York. To learn more or to get a quote, call us at 631-591-7810 or fill out our short form.

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Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist to get your home winter-ready

There’s a slight chill in the air and you know what that means – winter is on its way. 

As you conduct your annual autumn chores of raking leaves and putting away your swimsuits to make room for sweaters, take some time to focus on preparing your home for winter and beyond. 

The following are some fall and winter home tasks to add to your to-do list: 

Ensure your windows and doors are sealed, insulated and energy-efficient

Properly sealing and insulating your windows and doors is essential for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Here are some steps to help you prevent moisture and cold air from entering your home. 

First, check for air leaks by inspecting your windows and doors for any visible gaps or drafts. Look for cracks and openings around the window and door frames. If any are found, use caulking to seal any gaps or cracks you find around windows, door frames, and other penetrations. Silicone or acrylic latex caulk is typically used for sealing windows and doors. Make sure to apply a smooth and even bead of caulk to create an airtight seal.

For added energy efficiency, consider Window Replacement. Riverhead Building Supply has replacement solutions from Andersen Windows and Marvin Windows to suit any style of home. For example, if your home has Andersen Narroline double-hung windows, we have a replacement kit that makes replacing windows quick and easy, and we can even do it for you. You’ll get brand new Andersen double hung windows, with very little disruption to your home. The windows fit into your existing frame so that siding or drywall and trim is not disturbed. The new windows give you better energy efficiency year round, as well as new warranties on glass and parts. Find out more by contacting our installation department.

Installing storm windows or doors can provide an extra layer of insulation, particularly for older windows and doors. They create a buffer zone that helps to reduce heat transfer. Call us now to install a new Andersen Storm door over your entry door. It’s an affordable option that can reduce heat loss, and provides more light in your home on milder days. The Andersen 8 Series storm door has a retractable screen  – go from weather protection to ventilation without having to remove and store a panel. The storm door is weatherstripped on the top, bottom, and sides to help reduce drafts.

Properly sealed and insulated windows and doors can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce heating and cooling costs, and make your living spaces more comfortable. It’s an investment that can pay off in terms of both comfort and energy savings.

If you are in need of replacement windows, visit your local Riverhead Building Supply Showroom 

Check your heating system 

Have your heating system cleaned and serviced. Clean or replace filters in your HVAC system or air purifiers. If you use a fireplace regularly in the winter, have your chimney cleaned and professionally inspected.  Test your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. When it comes to safety, you can never be too prepared. 

Assess your home toolkit and ensure you have those “must-have” tools 

Even if you are not a serious DIYer, every homeowner should have a collection of hand tools and power tools to tackle small repairs or tasks around the house. Save money by doing some simple jobs yourself. 

Whether you want to hang up a picture, fix a leaky faucet, or assemble a chair, having a well-equipped home toolkit will help ensure that you have quick access to the tools required to complete your project. 

Some tools to consider for your home toolkit include a drill, a hammer, screwdriver and wrench sets, and a hand saw. When choosing your tools, look for premium brands such as Stanley, DEWALT, Bostitch® and Makita that manufacture quality products that will make your work easier.  A basic hammer is something everyone should have, choose the one that’s comfortable for you from our selection of different weights and types in stock. This DeWalt cordless drill kit with 20V atomic battery will help you power through home tasks with ease. And no home should be without a set of screwdrivers, or this handy Lutz 15-in-one screwdriver that is a true multi-tasker.

Add insulation

A well-insulated home is crucial for the cold winter months. Adequate insulation will help you stay comfortable and make your home more energy efficient. If you need more insulation, don’t wait until you feel an icy breeze in your bedroom. Add spray foam insulation now to fill in gaps between wall and attic framing studs. You’ll keep frigid air out and your heating costs down. Check your pipes, and add pipe insulation if needed.

Inspect your roof; clean gutters and downspouts

Maintaining your roof and gutters is essential to protect your home from water damage andensure its longevity. First, examine your roof for loose or damaged shingles. Look for signs of missing, curling, cracked, or broken shingles. Pay attention to any shingle granules in your gutters, as excessive granule loss can indicate shingle wear.  If you find damaged shingles, replace them promptly with one of the many GAF shingles we have in stock.

Be sure to check the flashing around roof penetrations, like chimneys, vents, and skylights taking notice that the seals are intact and not cracked as damaged flashing can lead to leaks. 

Make sure to remove leaves, branches, and other debris from your roof and gutters, as they can trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration and water damage.  In addition, check the slope and alignment on gutters and downspouts and adjust if necessary. Make sure the gutters are securely attached to your fascia and properly aligned.

Keep pests out in the cold

Check the exterior of your home and garage for small gaps or cracks that could allow mice, squirrels, or other pests to get inside.

Drain outdoor faucets

Disconnect and store hoses; shut off outdoor faucets; and drain any remaining water to prevent frozen pipes. Check pipes in unheated spaces inside, such as crawl spaces, to make sure they are insulated.

Test outdoor lighting

It’s getting dark earlier, make sure you have adequate outdoor lighting to illuminate walkways and your driveway. Test everything to make sure all lights are working and pointed in the right direction to keep you and your visitors safe.  

Store or cover outdoor furniture

Store outdoor furniture, or cover it for the winter to protect it from the elements.

This fall maintenance checklist can help you to get started on preparing your home for colder weather, ensuring that your home is comfortable, safe and energy efficient throughout the winter. Need help with window replacement installation, roofing, insulation or other ways to winterize your home? Visit a Riverhead Building Supply location or contact us today and our team of experts can help guide you. 

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Did you know that your existing Andersen Narroline windows (manufactured between 1968-2013) can be upgraded with a single phone call or click?

An upgrade means there are NEW features to love!

• High Performance Glass options:
  

  Low E-4 glass– Reflects heat in the summer and helps keep heat inside in the winter, therefore decreasing energy costs.

  SmartSun Glass– get the benefits of a Low E-4 glass plus it helps shield your home from the sun’s heat and filters out 95% of harmful UV rays while letting the sunlight shine through.

• Easy-to-clean tilt wash feature allows you to conveniently clean both sides of the glass from inside your home.
• New style options for hardware, grilles, exterior trim and glass
• New 20 year warranty on the glass
• New 10 year warranty on parts

We can determine if your Andersen Narroline windows are suitable for conversion and take care of the rest. 

Are My Windows Andersen Narroline Windows? 

As part of our replacement services, a complete inspection of all your windows is done to determine whether you have Andersen Narroline windows. If your windows have the following four items, the you have Andersen Narroline windows that can be converted!

• Two sash, both slide up and down
• Thin nylon cords in side jamb
• Andersen logo in the lower corner
  of the glass
• Recessed sash lift

Replacement Services

Our Installation Services Technician will inspect your Andersen Narroline windows to ensure they are suitable for conversion. If they are, we will provide you with a detailed written proposal.

You will have the opportunity to review and approve the proposal. With your approval, the new windows will be ordered and installation will be scheduled at your convenience.

Disposing of old windows

With the conversion kit there is no need to paint or do trim work once the new windows have been installed. The only thing left is getting rid of the old windows. Our team will take care of disposing of your old windows while you enjoy the new view.

Get started on your window replacement today!
Call 631-591-7810  or fill out the form below.

Contact Us

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Garage Door and Opener Maintenance and Repair

There are a few things a homeowner can safely do to ensure proper garage door function.  Let’s start with some basics and review the key components of your garage door and garage door opener.

Garage Door Tracks and Rollers:

Both the metal rails or tracks, made of steel, which the garage door rollers ride along are a key component to smooth operation of your door.  It is important to keep these clean and clear of debris.   The best way to clean them is with a soft, lint-free cloth damped with water or gentle household cleaner and wipe along the interior of the track.  The garage door can get misaligned if debris is caught in the rails or if the garage door was installed improperly or is imbalanced causing screeching, scratching or scraping noises upon use.  If these noises persist, it is recommended to call a garage door service technician to inspect and make appropriate repairs and adjustments – call here 631-591-7810 or complete an appointment form here and someone will contact you.

Garage Door Cables:

These cables do a lot of the heavy lifting – literally!  These long strands of galvanized steel rope help lift the door, which can weight up to 200 pounds.  These cables connect to the large springs that lift the door.  Without these cables, or a broken cable, will not allow the door to open – becoming one of the major issues that can cause a garage door to become stuck closed.  Garage door cable replacement and repair should be left to the professionals as they interact with the strong garage door springs that store a lot of energy and can cause harm to the novice repair person.

Garage Door Springs:

Springs are the power behind the door operation.  When in good condition you can lift the door easily as the springs provide the counterbalance and tension to give you an assist.  If a garage door spring breaks or becomes disabled the garage door becomes impossible to open.  Replacing garage door springs on your own is dangerous.  The springs are under tremendous tension that can unwind and cause serious injury.  Call a professional to replace garage door springs.

Garage Door Remotes and Keypads:

If either the remote or keypad are not functioning properly the first order of business is to check the batteries.  If the garage door remote still does not appear to work, check the manufacturer’s instructions on how to train or ‘program’ your remote control – search for instructions online if you do not have paperwork handy.  First, you will need to safely access the garage door opener motor to press the ‘Program or Learn’ button to initiate programming mode; usually an LED light will signal the unit is prepped.  Then the button on the remote is pressed to make a connection.  This is the basic idea, check your brand and find specific manufacturer instructions online.  If your efforts fail or the remote/motor still does not function, call our local garage door service technician to troubleshoot more options or set up an appointment at 631-591-7810.

Garage Door Weather Stripping, Sweep or Bottom Seal:

This is the soft, flexible material that compresses when the door closes, sealing the gap along the floor to keep out water, dirt, cold and critters.  If debris and air are getting in underneath your garage door, likely the bottom seal or weather strip is in need of replacement.   This might be the only repair a do-it-yourselfer can safely manage.  Of course if you have multiple issues with your garage door, the best course of action would be to contact an expert that can address all issues on one visit.

• First you need to measure the width of your garage door and purchase a roll of corresponding size bottom weather strip or rubber seal.
• Next, the garage door needs to be securely positioned in about an 80% open position so you have access from side to pull the sweep out of the astragal so it passes in front of the door tracks or rails.
• There is likely a screw a few inches in on each side along the bottom that is holding the current weather strip in place. These two screws should be removed and set aside to reinstall later.
• Pull out the old rubber strip from the side pulling evening and slowing. Sometimes the strip is so worn or damaged it can be pulled out from the bottom of the door.  Cutting along the entire bottom can assist in fast, easy removal as well.
• Cut your new garage weather strip to the exact width of the bottom of the door. To facilitate installation give coiled rubber strip a soak in water and dish soap.
• Curve the weather strip into a ‘U’ shape with the ribs on the outside and start to feed into one side of the astragal of the door (metal channels at bottom that rubber weather strip is fed into). This can be most efficient with two people, one feeding the strip in and the other gently pulling it across.
• Last step is to replace the two screws, one on each end, to secure the weather strip in place.

If you find you have multiple concerns with your garage door and opener, feel free to call our installation team of experts for a consultation at 631-591-7810 or complete a request form here.

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Where do you start on the road to replacement windows? With all of the choices available, it’s hard to decide. Let Riverhead Building Supply be your GPS – you tell us where you want to go, and we’ll give you the step by step directions to make sure you get there.
At home shows, community fairs, on TV, and in your neighborhood, you are being encouraged to renew the look of your home with replacement windows. Not a bad idea, but is it worth it? We’ve lined up some other options to consider. Before you get pressured into replacing all of the windows in your home, learn about the choices you have and make a decision that is comfortable for you.
 

When to replace?

The first decision can be the toughest. Is it time to replace windows? Here are some top reasons to consider replacement windows.

• Are your windows able to close tightly, and lock? No? Replacement is something to consider.
• Are there air gaps where you feel cold air coming in around the sash or window frame? If you can feel a draft, and you are not able to manage the air flow by caulking around the windows, it may be time for new ones.
• Do the windows operate smoothly? Do the screens fit well, and keep bugs out? If the frame has become racked or out of square, the sash may not operate smoothly. You may find that you can’t put your screens in easily either. Time to think about replacing.
• Is there any damage to your window? Are wood frames showing signs of rotting? Is there any visible water damage? Cracked, split or rotting wood frames should be replaced.
• Are your windows more than 20 years old? Old windows do not necessarily need to be replaced based solely upon age. If they have been well maintained, a good quality window can last for years. If, however, you have any of the problems mentioned above, replacement may be the way to go.
• Do you live in an area that requires you to have impact resistant glass, or to have storm shutters ready to hang if the forecast calls for high wind, hurricanes, etc.? It may be time to consider replacing windows with impact resistant glass.

 
With a new window, you will get the benefit of the latest materials, energy efficiency, and higher performance glass. And some newer windows come with great features such as sash that can be cleaned on both sides from the inside of your home.

Choices for replacement windows

Once you have decided to replace, there are several options. You can do a full replacement, which means removing siding on the exterior of your home, and trim inside, and doing a complete replacement of the window unit.
If your exterior and interior window frames are in good shape, you can opt for other solutions.
Narroline® Windows from Andersen®, manufactured between 1976 and 2012, can be converted with ease using Andersen Tilt Wash replacement windows. These wood windows give you new sash and jamb liners that fit into your existing window frame. Some of the advantages are obvious – there is little to no disruption to your home, and you have a brand new window unit. That means a new 20 year warranty on the glass, and a new 10 year warranty on the window, plus all of the updated features that you expect from a newly manufactured window. These windows, purchased from us and installed by Riverhead Building Supply’s Installation Partners or your carpenter, can end up costing you far less than hiring a franchised installer to handle replacement.

Replace windows at your pace, all units in the home do not need to be replaced at the same time. For any brand of wood window – that is, a window that has a wood frame, wood jambs and stops – consider an Andersen insert window. The insert window works in your existing frame, with little disruption to the interior or exterior of your home. Keep in mind that by using the existing frame, the new unit you install within that opening may have a slightly smaller visible glass surface, and therefore let in a little less daylight. For most people, the convenience and ease of installation outweigh the slightly smaller size of the window. It is something to bear in mind as you consider your replacement options.

Replacing screens

Sometimes you just need a new screen, and we can help with that too. We stock a variety of Andersen window screens in popular sizes to fit Andersen patio doors, double hung, casement and awning windows. The screens that we stock are intended for use with Andersen 400 Series windows. Windows carrying the Andersen name that are from other suppliers may not accept the same screens. If you are having a franchised installer put in new windows, your screens should come with the window unit, and are only available for purchase from the franchise. Similarly, Andersen Windows purchased through some big box stores are a different series. We are able to order screens to fit as long as you are clear about where your windows were purchased. The differences are small, but evident enough to create a nuisance. The overall screen size may be the same, but the wing locks that hold the screen in place are positioned differently and may not align with your window, meaning the screen cannot be properly secured in place.
How do you decide what window screen you need? For Andersen brand windows, there is a glass code etched into a corner of the window which tells us the glass size. From there, we can backtrack to the type of window and the kind of screen needed.
 
Be sure to contact us for help when you are considering window replacement. A call or a visit to the showroom can help to answer your questions and make your selections.

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