Windows & Doors

Attic Insulation

1. Why Add Attic Insulation?
2. What To Look For

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We take pride in our craftsmanship, which has made us one of the leaders in the home improvement industry.

Count on BGE HOME Home Improvement to deliver superior products, unmatched craftsmanship and responsive service all at very affordable prices. That’s the
BGE HOME Advantage, and it comes from our longstanding commitment to our customers.

At BGE HOME, we make things easier for you.

When you need windows, doors, siding, attic insulation or a gas fireplace for your home, we offer unprecedented advantages. We’ll manage your home improvement project from start to finish with honest, dependable service you can count on.

Take a look below and see why BGE HOME is the company you need to perform your next home improvement.

• Budget-fitting, affordable prices
  
• Expert, professional installation
  
• The finest quality materials
  
• Convenient financing, no matter what your budget
  
• Professional designs
  
• Licensed and bonded
  
• Energy saving products
  
• No payments for 90 days*
  
• No down payment required*
  
• Quality service before, during and long after the job is done

*with approved credit using alternative financing.

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Why Add Attic Insulation?

A properly insulated home can help reduce energy consumption, while making your home more comfortable all year round.

Insulation is a key factor when trying to get the most out of your energy dollars. Even the most energy efficient heating and cooling systems will be forced to work harder in homes that are not properly insulated.

Attic Insulation from BGE HOME creates a more comfortable living environment by making your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Extra comfort benefits include noise reduction by absorbing sound to create a quieter home.

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What To Look For

BGE HOME offers the finest in home insulation products and services to provide you with energy savings and home comfort.

When looking to insulate your attic, there are a variety of factors to consider:

• Amount of insulation required
• Insulation effectiveness
• Where the insulation will be installed
• How the insulation will be installed
• Accessibility of insulation area
• Availability and price of the insulation

Insulation is rated using a thermal resistance measurement known as an R-Value rating, which is a measurement of the resistance to heat flow. When insulating, the higher the R-Value, the greater the insulation effectiveness. A variety of factors affect the R-Value of your insulation, including the type of material, its thickness and its density.

The following chart shows the typical R-Values for blown-in fiberglass attic insulation:

According to Energy Star, the recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.

For more information, visit www.energystar.gov or www.doe.gov.

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Attic Insulation

1. Types
2. Features and Benefits
3. Accessories

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Types of Attic Insulation

Attic insulation from BGE HOME can create a more comfortable living environment by helping to maintain a constant temperature throughout your home, all while saving you energy and money.

BLOWN-IN FIBERGLASS:

Blown-in fiberglass insulation is more efficient than traditional insulation. Traditional insulation must be designed to fit the shape of the area where it is installed and wires, pipes and other obstructions decrease its effectiveness. Our blown-in fiberglass insulation is installed using a blowing machine, which allows our installers to easily access all hard to reach areas, eliminating any problems that may occur with traditional insulation. When adding insulation to your home, it is not necessary to add the same kind of insulation that is currently in your attic. Blown-in attic insulation can be successfully added on top of traditional fiberglass insulation without decreasing the effectiveness.

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Features and Benefits

BLOWN-IN FIBERGLASS:

• Environmentally sustainable, consisting of up to 40% recycled post-consumer glass and sand.
• Naturally non-combustible, therefore it requires no additional fire retardant chemical treatments.
• Does not settle over time, therefore it does not decrease the R-Value rating.
• More effective than traditional insulation, as it is able to be blown into hard to access areas.
• Reduces noise transmissions by absorbing sound to create a quieter home.
• Conserves energy.
  
  
  

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Accessories

ATTIC COVER:

The attic cover works as a shield between the attic and your home by insulating and sealing your attic entrance. By creating an air-tight barrier, the attic cover helps to reduce energy costs, by minimizing air leakage, and maintain a healthy indoor air quality, by preventing insulation and other particles from entering your living area.

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Siding

1. Pay back value
2. Why Replace?
3. What To Look For

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We take pride in our craftsmanship, which has made us one of the leaders in the home improvement industry.

Count on BGE HOME Home Improvement to deliver superior products, unmatched craftsmanship and responsive service all at very affordable prices. That’s the
BGE HOME Advantage, and it comes from our longstanding commitment to our customers.

At BGE HOME, we make things easier for you.

When you need windows, doors, siding, attic insulation or a gas fireplace for your home, we offer unprecedented advantages. We’ll manage your home improvement project from start to finish with honest, dependable service you can count on.

Take a look below and see why BGE HOME is the company you need to perform your next home improvement.

• Budget-fitting, affordable prices
  
• Expert, professional installation
  
• The finest quality materials
  
• Convenient financing, no matter what your budget
  
• Professional designs
  
• Licensed and bonded
  
• Energy saving products
  
• No payments for 90 days*
  
• No down payment required*
  
• Quality service before, during and long after the job is done
  

*with approved credit using alternative financing.

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Which Improvements Pay Back?

Ever think of ways to increase the value of your home?

As you are thinking through the many options you have, consider the payback for each project.

When it comes to resale value, all home improvements are not created equal. The average payback for installing a new heating or air conditioning system is a 100% return on heating and 75% return on air conditioning. Also, siding replacement has an average cost recovery rate of 95% to 104%. Other options to increase the resale value of your home are available, like installing new energy efficient windows or remodeling a basement.

Consider these payback estimates for the most typical home improvement projects.

Project	Cost	Average Payback
Add a new heating or air conditioning system	$2,000 to $4,500	100% for heating; 75% for air conditioning
Siding Replacement	$6,000 to $12,000	95% to 104%
Basement Remodel (mid-range)	$25,00 to $50,000	90%
Replacement Windows	$8,000 to $16,000	88% to 90%
Family Room (mid-range)	$40,000 to $50,000	83%
Sunroom	$20,000 to $35,000	75%

*Source: REMODELING Online, 2005.

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Why Replace?

Thermal Backed Siding is like a warm blanket around your home.

Thermal Backed Siding from BGE HOME significantly reduces air infiltration and delivers up to 400% more "R" value* vs. conventional siding. When BGE HOME replaces your siding your home immediately increases in value because it looks newer and is more energy efficient, which saves you money. Extra comfort benefits include reduced noise transmission to provide a quieter home and enhanced breatheabilty (allowing more water vapor to escape).

Choosing BGE HOME’s vinyl siding will not only increase your home’s beauty and value, its easy maintenance will leave more time for family and fun. So cross off scraping and painting, and add relaxation and enjoyment to your schedule, because BGE HOME is on your side.

BGE HOME offers Thermal Wall Plus insulation with our vinyl siding. Benefits of this Thermal-Backed Siding are:

• Durability - Improves impact resistance by more than 300%
  
• Beauty - Keeps seams flat and wall lines straight
  
• Comfort - Reduces noise transmission to provide a quieter home
  
• Energy Savings - Delivers up to 4 times the "R" value vs Conventional siding
  
• Breatheability - Allows water vapor to escape (up to 500% better)
  
• Added Value - Double-Lifetime Warranty; environmentally friendly and recyclable.
  

*R value is the standard measure used to evaluate the effectiveness of insulation materials.

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What To Look For

A quality siding panel will last as long as you own your home--bringing years of maintenance-free enjoyment, beauty and value. In addition to the availability of the right color scheme for your style of home, there are other features to look for in a siding panel that will ensure peace-of-mind in the years to come.

• Reinforced nail hem (siding is hung, not nailed on tightly. Nail hems need to be strong so they do not tear.)
  
• Interlocking nail hems (locks panels together for straighter walls and stronger wall holding power)
  
• Extra PVC in nail hem for stronger, straighter wall
  
• Vents (at least every 12 feet) to resist moisture behind panels
  
• Non-recycled vinyl ensures quality
  
• Designed and manufactured to resist fading, chalking, dents and warping
  
• Lifetime Warranty on materials and installation
  
• Color is manufactured into the vinyl panel
  
• All trim options available (allows flexibility to custom finish your home and keeps quality consistent)
  
• Thicker panel (more wall strength and insulating qualities)
  
• Insulation board used behind the siding, at least 3/8" thick (helps insulate home)

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Selecting a Contractor

Selecting a contractor is an important decision. You must do the research and take the time to find one that you are comfortable with. Consider the contractor’s reputation for supplying and installing quality products. Ask for references and call them

• Make sure the contractor is fully insured and licensed as required by law.
  
• Look at some examples of the contractor’s work. Ask to see pictures of work the contractor has done, similar to the style of home improvement you are considering.
  
• Be sure to get a written warranty on the materials and the workmanship.
  
• Ask up front if you will be treated as a partner in the project. Be sure to work with someone who understands exactly what you want.

When comparing companies, some other options to consider are: professionally trained personnel, use of quality products, free in-home estimates with no obligation, long standing reputation and dependable service, and lastly check out your financing options.

Windows & Doors

1. Types
2. Features and Benefits
   

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Types of Windows & Doors

Let BGE HOME Home Improvement help protect your home against the elements, beautify your exterior, make your home more energy efficient, and increase its value. We can install the best, most cost effective, energy efficient windows available today in your home. Find out how affordable and convenient it is with BGE HOME.

We are proud to carry Uniframe replacement windows by Great Lakes. We offer garden windows to lighten your home, double hung windows, picture windows, horizontal sliders, bay and bow windows, and casement windows. Let the sun shine in with new energy efficient, maintenance free custom vinyl replacement windows from BGE HOME.

WINDOWS:

DOORS:

BGE HOME carries doors of lasting beauty, with decorative glass and an array of designer colors.

Select From:

• Patio Doors (vinyl only)
• Entry Doors (steel and fiberglass)
• Storm Doors
• Steel and Fiberglass patio Doors
• Stainable, paintable steel Doors with the look of authentic wood
• Woodgrain patterned Doors
• Security Doors

WINDOW AND GLASS OPTIONS:

BGE HOME offers vinyl windows in colors and wood-grain finishes to beautifully complement any decor, from traditional to contemporary. Add unique Designer Glass for dramatic results, without sacrificing energy efficiency. Choose Classic, Original or Contemporary design styles and select from among ten stained glass color choices to complement your home.

For more information call BGE HOME today at 1-888-BGE-HOME or email us.

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Benefits of replacing your windows

Replacing old, inefficient windows can be a very beneficial investment. New windows from BGE HOME will beautify your home from the outside-in, adding style and value to your home. New technological advancements have increased the energy efficiency of windows, thus dramatically reducing the transfer of hot and cold air between the inside and outside of your home. Furthermore, you will find that new windows will be easier to operate, easier to clean and will save you money.

Replacement windows are relatively inexpensive to install and significantly reduce energy loss with advancements in heat stabilizing glazing, polyurethane insulation, and air-tight weather stripping. By installing new replacement windows from BGE HOME, you can save up to 30% on energy consumption.

Uniframe Windows from BGE HOME:

Fusion welded for added strength. An entirely fusion welded window, both sashes and mainframes use the advanced manufacturing method. UniFrame windows weld vinyl sections together for a solid one-piece unit that won’t split or weaken over the years, unlike windows that use staples, screws or caulk to hold their window frame corners together.

Maintenance Free New Generation^TM Vinyl. Every UniFrame window is constructed with rugged maintenance-free uiPVC(polyvinyl chloride). UniFrame New Generation Vinyl windows will never stick like wood or metal windows because they don’t sweat or deteriorate from corrosion, pitting or rot. Wash them with soap and water and they’ll look great year-after-year. Additionally, the highest quality locking and operating hardware available is utilized. E-Gard^TM hardware is chemical, corrosion and ultra-violet resistant.

Air Tight Construction. Air infiltration is a major cause of energy loss, so sashes feature heavy-duty polyurethane weather-stripping, while double-hung and sliding windows feature full meeting rail interlocks. The construction method creates a double barrier to air and water for higher thermal efficiency.

Superior Insulation and Reduced Condensation. The Hi R+Plus multi-layer vacuum-deposition soft-coat Low-E glass series is designed to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The Hi R+ Plus combines ultra-low emissivity with the optimal balance of shading and solar heat gain. The odorless, colorless, non-toxic gases between the panes provide better insulation and a lower U-Factor. The comfort level of your home is increased, while the window condensation is virtually eliminated with one of the best insulating glass systems available.

Photochemical Damage Control. Damage to furnishings, carpets, and draperies is the result of a photochemical process that is influenced by many variables, including: the level of visible light, the intensity of heat, the strength of infrared radiation, and the amount of violet radiation.

Exterior Sound Management. Uniframe windows can reduce the level of exterior noise up to 300% better than single pane windows.

Advanced Easy-CleanGlass with PPG Technology. The Advanced Easy-Clean^TM Glass system is a remarkable advancement in glass design that eliminates the frequent exterior window cleaning. With the Easy-Clean^TM Glass system you’ll clean glass half as often, and in half the time.

UniFrame windows are Energy Star qualified for the Mid-Atlantic region.

By choosing UniFrame windows from BGE HOME, you can cut your heating and cooling costs, make your home more comfortable and reduce air pollution -- all without sacrificing versatility or style.

UniFrame windows from BGE HOME...good for you, good for your home and good for the environment.

For a free no obligation in-home estimate, call BGE HOME today at 1-888-BGE-HOME or email us.

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Siding

Revitalizing your home has never been simpler! Vinyl siding, the preferred choice of homeowners, will update your look, enhance curb appeal and protect your home from the elements and your children’s baseball practice. You will want to carefully choose the style and type of vinyl siding that is best for your home.

Is painting more cost effective than vinyl siding?
From a short-term point of view, painting is certainly less expensive. However, after approximately three years, the pendulum begins to swing in favor of vinyl. Not only will you boost your resale value, but you will also enjoy the ease of caring for vinyl siding.

What other types of siding are available?
Todays choices include vinyl, wood, aluminum and steel. The preferred option: Vinyl.

Why is vinyl so popular?
It is virtually maintenance free. The color does not peel, blister or flake, so there is never the need to paint. Another advantage is that it does not contribute to termite infestation, rotting or moisture buildup. You will also discover that vinyl has no effect on television or radio reception.

Energy Savings

1. Energy Efficient Windows
2. Thermal Backed Siding
3. Attic Insulation
   

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Energy Efficient Windows

Approximately 45% of the average home’s annual energy budget is consumed by heating and cooling costs. Energy experts estimate that up to 30% of energy costs can be saved by installing ENERGY STAR qualified windows. Visit www.energystar.gov for more information.

Windows can be one of your home’s most attractive features, providing views, day-lighting, ventilation, and solar heating in the winter. Selecting the appropriate ENERGY STAR certified window is essential to ensuring that you are conserving the maximum amount of energy possible. Every window featuring the ENERGY STAR label meets the specific energy efficient performance standards developed by the EPA and US Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR labeled windows are twice as efficient as windows purchased just ten years ago and forty percent more efficient than products required under most common national building codes.

The ENERGY STAR Window Program is a voluntary partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy and participating window manufacturers. ENERGY STAR performance requirements are tailored to fit the energy needs of the country’s different regions - north, central, and southern states.

For a free no obligation in-home estimate, call
BGE HOME today at 1-888-BGE-HOME or email us.

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Thermal Backed Siding

Thermal Backed Siding is like a warm blanket around your home.

Thermal Backed Siding from BGE HOME significantly reduces air infiltration and delivers up to 400% more "R" value* vs. conventional siding. When BGE HOME replaces your siding your home immediately increases in value because it looks newer and is more energy efficient, which saves you money. Extra comfort-benefits include reduced noise transmission to provide a quieter home and enhanced breatheabilty (allowing more water vapor to escape).

*R value is the standard measure used to evaluate the effectiveness of insulation materials.

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Attic Insulation

Heating and cooling account for up to 45% of the energy used in the average home and inadequate insulation and air leakage are leading causes of energy waste. A properly insulated home can reduce heating and cooling costs, reduce air infiltration and ensure proper ventilation.

BGE HOME’s blown-in fiberglass insulation is certified for indoor air quality by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute’s GREENGUARD for Children and Schools^SM standard. GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified is a product certification program for low emitting interior building materials, furnishings, and finish systems. All GREENGUARD Certified Products have been tested for their chemical emissions performance. For more information, visit www.greenguard.org.

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What We Do

                            

At BGE HOME, we put all of our energy and experience into every energy-saving home improvement we do.                    

BGE HOME is your best choice to make your home more valuable, beautiful and energy efficient.        

Our goal is to ensure your complete satisfaction with our products and services. That’s why we provide quality materials and the finest workmanship available.                                                                                    

• Free In-home no obligation estimates
• Superior energy-saving products                               
• Budget-fitting prices and financing                               
• Incomparable personal service - before, during and long after the sale.                           
  

Before The Installer Arrives

WINDOWS AND DOORS:

Before the installer arrives at your home for your new windows, it is important that you remove drapes, shades and/or blinds from your existing windows.

We ask that you also remove valuable artwork or table top items from work areas.

SIDING:

Choose the right siding system to provide your home with beauty, comfort and easy care then leave the rest to BGE HOME.

INSULATION:

Before the installer arrives at your home, it is important that you clear any items that may obstruct the installer from properly insulating your attic.

Maintenance Tips

Cleaning Your Glass

Interior Glass Panel
If your window or door has a removable interior glass panel, remove it to clean the inside. This may require an additional person, depending on the size and/or location of the glass panel. If the removable panel has a blind or shade mounted on it, pull it up and secure the cord to make it easier to handle.

To wash interior glass, including both sides of any removable interior panels, use a premixed vinegar-based cleaning solution (or make your own with 10% vinegar and 90% water) and a soft, lint–free towel (paper or cloth). Or you may use Windex® Glass and Surface Cleaner (clear liquid) or Sparkle Glass Cleaner (purple liquid). Be generous with the amount of cleaner you apply. Rinse with clear water if streaks remain after cleaning. Do not use brand-name glass cleaners that are ammonia or alcohol-based. They may leave streaks or produce a film that attracts moisture or dust.

Outside Glass Surface
To clean the outside glass surfaces, use a vinegar-based solution (as previously described) and a squeegee. If streaks still appear after a thorough cleaning, rinse the glass with clear water. To remove grease or sealant on the glass, use mineral spirits sparingly, then wash with a vinegar-based cleaning solution.

Cleaning Your House
Vinyl and aluminum siding are virtually maintenance free, clean with a simple wet brushing or hosing off. Sometimes stubborn areas of dirt could use harder brushing with 1/3 c. laundry detergent, and 6 gallons of water. Add some chlorine bleach if fighting mildew. Work from the bottom up to about 5 ft. vertical sections. Rinse with plain water, going over previously washed sections so the runoff doesn’t dry on an already cleaned area!

Solar Attic Fans

  

Why Install a Solar Attic Fan?

Attic temperatures can reach up to 150 degrees creating heat related issues in your home, such as higher cooling bills and increased wear and tear on your roof. A solar-powered attic fan cools your attic, using a renewable energy source, the sun, and provides a solution to potential issues related to extreme temperatures in your attic.

Solar Attic Fan Benefits:

• Reduces attic temperature
• Reduces cooling load on the air conditioning unit, which can save you money on your cooling bill
• Helps reduce moisture and mold
• Prevents ice damming when operated year round
• Increases fresh air circulation, providing better indoor air quality
• Cools the roof and extends the life of roofing materials
• Utilizes a renewable energy source, the sun
• Quiet operation
• High quality construction
• 25 year warranty available†
• Qualify for up to 30% tax credit on total purchase price, including installation*

Contact BGE HOME today to have your solar attic fan installed and you’ll realize the benefits for years to come. We take care of everything from helping you select the right fan for your needs to providing expert installation. Our solar attic fans are available with up to a 25 year warranty and are eligible for a 30% energy tax credit up to $1,500*.

General Guidelines for Fan Selection

BGE HOME’s Energy and Comfort Consultants are available to answer any questions you may have on which model to choose. Our consultants will assist you in selecting the appropriate model to ensure the most appropriate coverage for your home, and our expert installers will provide worry-free installation.

For more information, contact BGE HOME at 1-888-BGE-HOME or CLICK HERE.

*You may be eligible for tax credits under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Visit www.energystar.gov to learn more. Consult a tax advisor for more information. †On select models only.