The first tenants in downtown's 777 Main apartment tower moved in 20 months ago, and now the building is 95 percent leased.

But the place, surrounded by scaffolding on street level, still looks like a construction zone.

The staging hasn't been removed because the developer confirmed he is replacing "hundreds" of the original 1,900 windows in the tower damaged during the $85 million conversion of the former bank building into rentals. And the troubles are tangled up in long-running legal wrangling between the apartment developer and the general contractor over who is responsible and who should pay for the new windows.

"We've left up the scaffolding as an extra precaution," Bruce Becker, the project's Fairfield-based developer, said. "I don't like having it there. But safety has to be the priority."

The scaffolding obscures the storefront of Blue State Coffee, which opened in September, 2015, just a few months after the first tenants moved into the tower.

The staging has hurt the cafe's visibility and its goal of becoming part of the community, said Carolyn Greenspan, Blue State's chief executive.

"We do think it's an issue," Greenspan said. "It's not helping to let people know that we are there. It's not welcoming the way we want to be with the scaffolding there."

And you can't see that CVS is outfitting a space in another space on the ground floor.

In the apartments above, window replacement started in November and has been done mostly as apartments have turned over to new tenants. If tenants were in the middle of a lease, they were relocated to a furnished apartment elsewhere in the tower.

The east and south faces of the 26-story building are the priority, Becker said, because that's where the scaffolding is set up. Becker hopes the staging will be removed by late spring.

"I do look forward to it being gone by the warmer months," Nick Addamo, an urban planner who has rented an apartment in the building since October, said. "It will be nice to have the block back."

The 286-unit apartment building is the largest downtown rental development tackled so far by the Capital Region Development Authority, using taxpayer-subsidized loans and equity investments. Of the $85 million development and construction costs at 777 Main, CRDA committed a $10.2 million loan and a $7.5 million equity investment.

Becker said he is close to a settlement with the contractor, Viking Construction of Bridgeport and one of its subcontractors, Armani Restoration of Hartford. The settlement will help speed up the window replacement, but it won't cover all the costs of the new windows. The settlement is expected to be paid for by insurance carriers for Viking and Armani, Becker said.

Becker declined to discuss the terms of the settlement. He said the total number of windows to be replaced must still be determined.

Attorneys for Viking and Armani declined to comment for this story.

Becker said each window cost less than $1,000, but that does not include installation.

Becker said the damage to the 9-foot high windows original to the 1967 structure occurred after Viking hired Armani to clean the building's facade. Becker said the glass became "pitted" around the edges, compromising the views from the windows and their strength.

Under most weather conditions, Becker said the damage to the windows wouldn't present a safety problem. But if, say, a hurricane struck, the damage could cause a window to break, he said.

Becker said the exterior damage to the windows was separate from windows that broke during construction. Viking in court documents blamed that on the installation of interior storm windows designed to further insulate against heat and cold, a contention disputed by Becker.

Soon after the first residents started moving into 777 Main in June, 2015, a portion of the scaffolding along Main Street was removed. But days later, a shard of glass from a window on the sixth floor plunged to the sidewalk below. No one was hurt, but the staging was put back in place.

Although Addamo said he won't miss the scaffolding, it has had its benefits in bad weather this winter.

"I've actually been a little thankful for it in the rain and snow," Addamo said.

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Hundreds Of New Windows Needed At Hartford Apartment Tower - Hartford Courant

Ann Gregory and Laurie Scarborough, the sister team behind Door Store and Windows, actually started their careers crunching numbers as accountants, never thinking that they would be selling doors. It was their father, who happens to turn 85 this week, whose personal investment in a door manufacturing company set the wheels in motion for Door Stores creation and for his daughters next careers. Ann started at The Door Store first, 11years ago, and convinced Laurie to join her more than three years ago. What was meant to be a six-month job has turned into a wonderful partnership. Thesesisters are best friends and business partners, whose main goal every day is to make Louisville a better town to live in, one house at a time! You will never think about your doors or windows the same after meeting these two dynamos. Welcome Ann Gregory and Laurie Scarborough as todays FACES of Louisville.

Laurie Scarborough and Ann Gregory are the sister team behind Door Store and Windows, and today, theyre our FACES of Louisville!

Actually, the business was started 20 years ago. I would love to take credit for the idea, but it was actually our father. Dad had invested in a door manufacturing company and quickly realized that most of their dealers were window replacement companies that were not focused on doors. His idea was to open a retail establishment that sold and installed only entry doors. His partner at the time was charged with finding an owner/manager who would be responsible for the day-to-day activities of the business as they were only going to be investors. Dads only restriction was to NOT hire one of his children. He interviewed 30+ candidates and told Dad that he wanted to hire me.

Basically, I begged her. We had grown to the point that I was feeling overwhelmed. Laurie brought a set of skills and talents that I did not have. She initially said that she would help me out for six months. She wouldnt allow me to buy her a desk and worked on two folding tables for five or six years. Eventually, she cracked and decided that she would be my equal partner in the business, and we bought a real desk for her. We still laugh about that!

Ann Gregory

Ann: Laurie and I are very close in age (18 months apart), and we both have very strong personalities. But, family comes first. So prior to working together, we sat down and agreed upon some ground rules, which were basically that family trumps business. If business ever comes between us, we walk away. Its been a wonderful journey, and I couldnt ask for a better partner.

Laurie: Its actually great working together. Imagine working with someone you really trust, who believes in your business just as wholeheartedly as yourself and looks out for your best interest as well as her own.

Initially we struggled with the idea of working together. We talked about it for about three months before taking the plunge. (True story. I agreed to stay for only six months.) We knew our work gifts were uniquely different and complementary. But we also knew we were both extremely independent, inpatient, maybe even bossy and definitely competitive; and working together would be a risky proposition. We were dear friends and just about as close as sisters could be. We did not want to lose our friendship. So we made heartfelt promises to each other to keep our sister relationship first and foremost. So yes, we have had disagreements and hurt feelings, but we talk it out in a kind but direct way. Apologize, if necessary. Weve been working shoulder to shoulder now for 11 years and we are still friends.

Laurie Scarborough

Laurie: Doors and windows are a part of a larger market segment called the fenestration industry, which is built around the design, construction or presence of openings in buildings. So its a very natural progression from doors to windows. Most window and door companies in the replacement business start with windows, then add entry doors. We started in the entry door business, then added windows.

Entry doors are bit more personal to homeowners and require more design knowledge. After all, many people use their entry door daily. Their doors need to add to the exterior architecture of their home as well as enhance the beauty of their interior entry halls. As a result, many homeowners tend to have more concerns about their entry door choices. We have been selling and installing entry doors for 20 years, and we are always happy to help customers select their entry doors.

Ann: Continue making homes in Louisville beautiful.

Laurie: Our business passion is bringing beauty and comfort to homes in our community. So we are always looking for the brightest and best people to add to our team and help with this mission. Plus we are on the hunt for new products to add to our lineup.

Ann: Its not so much a challenge but an awareness that your partner is more important than just a co-worker. I think both of us try to be considerate of each other, and we are both very aware of each others hot buttons. Sometimes we slip, but at the end of the day, we respect and love each other. The biggest advantage is the trust that we have in each other. There is never any doubt that Laurie has my back and I have hers.

Laurie: The biggest challenge? Of course the obvious, too much of a good thing! Trying not to talk business at family and celebratory gatherings. What are the advantages? Trust. You know your back is covered, and you know you are safe with them.

Ann: I start my day very early, typically rising around 5 a.m. I usually walk three to four miles, six days a week. I usually get to work between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. Due to the retail nature of my business, I spend a good deal of time in the showroom. I do run sales calls, but we have such a wonderful sales team, so that doesnt happen as much as it used to. One thing that I still try to do is to take a minute when a customer is in the showroom to stop by and introduce myself. I love the design element of my job, and helping customers select the perfect windows and doors for the their home is the best part of what I do.

Laurie: My typical week includes a bit of everything. I have a lot of leadership responsibilities keeping the team focused on strategic, tactical and operational goals. I spend time reading and monitoring the business environment. I will send 25%-plus of my time on marketing and advertising. I also volunteer weekly as a member of two choirs and a helper with a 3- and 4-year-old choir, all at our church.

Ann: Loyal, passionate, decisive

Laurie: Overcommitted (I want to do it all), passionate, driven

Ann: I have two different answers to that. My mother always told me in order to be happy, you have to decide to be happy. It comes from within. Andwhen we opened the business, someone that I thought very highly of told me to always remember that no one will love this business as much as you love the business.

Laurie: Some early advice from our father. I remember trying to understand what my bosses wanted from me, wondering how I could be more successful and meet their expectations.Generally my supervisors were men members of the mature/silent (the Korean and Vietnam War) generations. Dad told me that a commanders wish was an order. I learned to listen for the expectation framed in wishes as well as for direct orders. His advice has been invaluable.

Ann: You will never see me without my baby shoe necklace by Aaron Basha. It was my mothers, and I wear it every day.

Laurie: My Fitbit. But truly you will often see me with my sister work, lunch and weekend dinners out. Oh, and lets not forget shopping when time allows.

Ann: By far, Jack Frys is my favorite followed closely by Lillys.

Laurie: A longtime favorite is Lillys. We will head to Germantown to eat at Eiderdown. Our neighborhood fave eat in or carry out isMojitos.

Ann: One of my favorite book series is Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. I have read the entire series but would like to read them again. Currently, I am reading The Virginian, by Owen Wister

Laurie: The New York Times, online news organizations and industry publications are getting most of my attention. I also enjoy daily meditation and read from a spiritual anthology. I have two books queued up: one on digital content marketing and a spiritual book written by Henri Nouwen.

Ann: By far, my favorite thing is my 3-and-a-half-year-old granddaughter Katie. Its so much fun watching her personality develop and watching my son and daughter-in-law work through the challenges of parenting. Also, this time of year we are turning a corner into my favorite season Spring! I love watching the days get longer and having those few warm days here and there to let us know that warmer weather is just around the corner.

Laurie: My new dog Mercedes (recently adopted 4-year-old Havanese), renovating our 60s house, and Sunday night TV like Masterpiece Theater or The Walking Dead.

Door Store and Windows is located at4625 Shelbyville Road, Louisville KY 40207. Learn more at (502) 896-1717.

And thank you toAdele Reding Photographyfor the wonderful photos of Ann and Laurie!

************

Read about more inspiring women in Louisville in our FACES of Louisville weekly featureshere.

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Ann Gregory & Laurie Scarborough from Door Store and Windows: FACES of Louisville - StyleBlueprint (blog)

The general public has been wrong before about the popularity of something. Although some critics have said Google+ is dead, we happen to see it as very much alive and kicking for Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, FL (PRWEB) February 13, 2017

Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Express Glass, Fort Lauderdales expert sliding glass door repair service, is proud to announce new posts on Google+ for February, 2017. While many pundits have announced Google+ to be "dead," Express Glass is seeing growing interest in its Google+ page and social media posts on glass repair for Fort Lauderdale residents. Helpful information for sliding glass door repair has shown a steady following.

The general public has been wrong before about the popularity of something. Although some critics have said Google+ is dead, we happen to see it as very much alive and kicking for Fort Lauderdale, commented Yaniet Santos, general manager of Express Glass. Our informational posts about sliding glass door repair have recently had a lot of views. Thats why we continue to post new glass repair information to Google's proprietary social media network.

Several new posts for sliding glass door repair can be found on the Google+ site at https://plus.google.com/u/0/109417325208521643861. Fort Lauderdale residents and the surrounding Florida community can also view information for emergency sliding glass door repair and window replacement at http://www.expressglassfl.com/fort-lauderdale-glass-window-repair/, and then click 'up' to the blog to read posts in full.

Sliding Glass Door Repair in Fort Lauderdale and Alt-Smart Posting on Google+

Recent outcomes in the last election have proven pollsters may not always be correct when predicting a winner. In Fort Lauderdale, the general public may be more interested in helpful glass repair information than previously determined, including reading timely posts on Google+. Google+ has recently experienced a rise in postings for sliding glass door repair and replacement. The topics might not be exciting to pollsters, but Fort Lauderdale residents have shown an interest in reading helpful glass repair information!

Express Glass, a five-star rated sliding glass door repair service in Fort Lauderdale, has recently announced a rise in Google+ postings. Trending topics covering conservative values vs. progressive values for sliding glass door repair service have been noticed by the public. Other popular topics such as repairing vs. replacing sliding glass doors and fixing a jammed patio door have been posted and viewed. Google+ may have been counted out by critics, but Florida residents might have other priorities. Alt-smart posts for residential and commercial sliding glass door repair can be found in Google+. Interested parties are urged to visit the company's Google+ page or contact the company for interview opportunities.

About Express Glass Repair and Board Up

Express Glass and Board Up Service Inc. is a family owned and operated glass repair business with more than 20 years of experience. Professional technicians and the large variety of inventory make Express Glass the top sliding glass door repair service. If customers are looking for Fort Lauderdale sliding glass door repair as well as glass repair in Delray Beach or West Palm Beach glass repair, please reach out to the company for a free estimate. If customers need a 24/7 Sliding Glass Door repair service in Ft. Lauderdale or Boca Raton or Miramar, technicians are standing by. The company specializes in sliding glass door repair and window glass repair; technicians will handle any glass replacement situation efficiently. Home or business glass repair is the company's main priority. Express Glass Repair and Board up http://www.expressglassfl.com/

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Fort Lauderdale's Favorite Sliding Glass Door Repair Company, Express Glass Announces New Google+ Posts to Its ... - PR Web (press release)

Henri de Marne, About the House 12:46 a.m. ET Feb. 11, 2017

About the House(Photo: Getty Images)

Q. Dear Sir: May I start by remarking how we have enjoyed and learned from your articles over the years. My wife and I hope your new endeavors bring you much joy and maybe a bit of relaxation. Thank you for everything. Now onto our question.

In pondering some replacement windows soon, we recall some choices you have mentioned, especially companies that back their product and quality. Of course we are at a loss as to remembering your printed wisdom. We should have saved the info. We currently have mostly Air Tight windows and have been pleased, but our 2nd story garden window is in need of replacement (not an Air Tight product) and with so many companies out there we would appreciate your input. Thank you in advance. Respectfully submitted. Illinois via email

A. Thank you for your kind words. It is rewarding to know that I have been helpful over the years.

If you are satisfied with Air Tight windows, you may wish to contact them and replace the garden window with the appropriate Air Tight product. I have had no experience with these windows.

My many earlier comments on windows over the years made reference to Marvin Windows (and doors), which, over the years, I have found to be a quality brand with exceptional service and very competitive pricing.

Q. Can I use Kaboom with OxyClean on acrylic surfaces? Via email

A. Kaboom with OxyClean is recommended for use on ceramic tile, porcelain, plastic, but is not recommended for use on marble, fabric, carpet, brass or aluminum.

Acrylic surfaces are a form of plastic, so you should be OK.

Q. My home was built in 1937. My cellar has both a cement floor and cement walls. I call it a wet cellar because after a very heavy rainfall water appears on the floor of the cellar. I leave nothing on the floor and the moisture eventually leaves on its own. The fact that the furnace is down there helps.

Here is my question. My painter wants to paint the cellar floor. I might be selling the house in a year or two and he thinks that painting the floor will help the cause. I am afraid that the paint will slow down the ability of the cement floor to dry after taking in water. Should I paint the floor? If so, what kind of paint should be used? Thank you. Really like your column. Rutland via email

A. Painting the concrete floor is likely to turn into a disaster and make the sale of your house more difficult. The leakage you are experiencing would simply cause the paint to peel.

Moreover, concrete is a somewhat porous material, its porosity depending on how it was finished.

It is most likely that, in a house built in 1937, when technology was not as advanced as it is today, the concrete was poured directly on the soil without the proper stone bed and plastic vapor retarder.

Capillary attraction, not broken by stones and plastic (or XPS foam, used today as a vapor retarder), is causing moisture to travel through the concrete and evaporate in the cellar, which would cause the paint to peel.

My advice is to leave the slab alone.

The leakage after a heavy rainfall may be the result of deficiencies in grading and water disposal around your house.

Most houses suffer from flat or negative grade around the foundation. In heavy or long-lasting rainfall, and when snow melts, water percolates down to the footings and finds a way inside.

Final grade should slope gently away from the foundation to drain water away from it, and be covered with a healthy stand of grass. Flowerbeds and shrubbery are best planted a few feet away from the foundation, as they encourage water retention.

Downspouts need to discharge on splashblocks that follow the grades gentle slope. Patios, walks, driveways, etc. must slope away from the foundation as well.

If all those elements are properly done, the chance is great that leakage will be eliminated unless you are experiencing an underground spring or rising water table after a deluge.

Q. I sent you an e-mail last year about the icicles hanging from my gutter on my attached garage which is unheated. There were also icicles on the gutter near the front door and above the back door from the heated laundry room. Your reply indicated that the icicles were forming due to the heat escape from the house.

In the fall we removed the gutter guards (white plastic with screening and another layer of plastic with 3/8-inch diameter holes). We then cleaned whatever garbage was left in the gutters that the gutter guards did not filter out and left them uncovered for the winter.

Interestingly, this winter after heavy snow and below freezing temperatures here in Illinois in December, nary an icicle had formed on these gutters. It appears that the gutter guards were the problem although I dont know why. I wonder if this icicle problem occurs with any type of gutter guard.

Thought youd be interested to know what I discovered. Illinois via email

A. Icicles form when the snow cover on a roof begins to melt, either from natural causes (warming temperatures or the suns action) or from an attic in which the temperature is above freezing.

In the case of icicles forming at your unheated garage, they are the result of natural causes.

As the melting snow travels toward the eaves and meets colder surfaces, it freezes and turns into icicles. If there are gutter covers, it freezes on top of them and continues outside the gutters.

If there are no gutter covers, the gutters and the downspouts fill up and icicles will form as the subsequent water overflows.

If you havent yet seen any icicles this winter, it is either likely that the conditions have not yet been met for their formation or that the gutters are not yet full of ice. Time will tell.

Send questions via email tohenridemarne@gmavt.net or mail your questions to Henri de Marne, c/o Dennis Redmond, Burlington Free Press, 100 Bank St., Suite 7, Burlington, Vt. 05401. Henri de Marnes book, About the House, is available at http://www.upperaccess.com and in bookstores.

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It's time to find replacement windows - BurlingtonFreePress.com

Indianapolis, IN - No matter where you live or the season, theres no bigger energy user in your home than your heating and cooling system.

Todays angies list report focuses on an efficiency investment you can barely see. The best part, it save you some green every time you pay a power bill.

Angie Hicks, Angies List founder, says Installing high-efficiency windows can be a great investment but its also expensive and costs thousands of dollars. If youre looking for a more affordable option, window film is a great alternative.

Solar window film is a thin material applied to window glass. Without it, most of the solar energy that hits the glass comes right on through into your home. With the film, most of that energy stays out. How much depends on the type of film you use.

Kevin Koval, owner of SOLARIS window film company, says Window film will be a much better option in terms of improving the performance and matching the performance of a new replacement window, typically a fifth the cost of going through the replacement of those windows.

Jay Dunbar said he earned his investment in window film back in energy savings within three years and resolved an issue of uneven temperature in his house right away.

Jay Dunbar, homeowner, says First thing that we noticed, because we had it applied I think it was in late fall, we noticed that when it got cold, all of a sudden our bedroom wasnt 10 degrees colder than the rest of the house, which was very nice.

You can install window film yourself, but doing that could void your window warranty. Reputable pros will replace your warranty with their own. Theyll also install the film without bubbles, which will prevent cracks or peeling later on. Some will even let you transfer the warranty if you sell your house.

Angie Hicks says, Only a few states actually require trade licenses for window film installers, so you want to do some additional homework to see their affiliations with different trade associations and also what kind of guarantee they have behind their work.

Window film offers more than energy efficiency. It shields you from the glare of sunlight, filters out potentially dangerous ultra violet light and even helps protect your furniture from fading from prolonged exposure to the sun.

Installing film on a typical sliding glass door will cost between $300 to $500. An average double-pane window costs between $100-$150. Window experts say you can expect energy savings of five to 10 percent.

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Using Window Film to Lower Energy Bills - IllinoisHomePage.net

NORWALK The cost for the window and door replacement project at West Rocks Middle School has more than doubled since it was approved and included in the Board of Educations 2016-17 capital budget.

The discovery of PCBs, an existing steel window wall system and the need to include a vestibule at the main entry due to new regulatory safety and environmental standards are all unexpected factors that drove up the cost from an estimated $1.38 million to $3.12 million, according to a memo sent to school officials by John Ireland, the project manager from architectural firm Silver/Petrucelli and Associates.

The scope of work can be a long wish list paired with a guestimate, Ireland said in the memo. While I believe this project is better defined than that, it remains a blind process. No testing, no uncovering of existing conditions, no as built drawings at the start ... and no analysis followed by no design. In short, the scope of work and grant estimate was underestimated.

Though the original plans were already approved, under the states school construction grant procedures the Board of Education must approve the final plans and cost estimates prior to submitting the plans to the State Department of Administrative Services Office of School Construction Grants.

Several concerns were brought up by Board of Education members over the magnitude of the cost increase as the plans were discussed at the boards Tuesday evening meeting.

Board member Erik Anderson questioned when the original cost estimates for the project were made and expressed concerns as to why the architecture firm couldnt have known about the cost-driving issues earlier on in the process.

Tom Hamilton, chief financial officer for the school district, said original estimations were made in late 2015 and that the issue of not identifying the unforeseen obstacles comes down to how much should be invested early on in the project planning process.

Hed to go here

Original Estimated Project Cost $1,375,000

Phase 1 Phase 2 Total

Original Estimated Project Cost: $1,375,000

Revised Estimated Project Cost: $1,338,254 $1,785,773 $3,124,027

Projected State Reimbursement (24%): $321,181 $428,586 $749,766

Local Cost: $1,017,073 $1,357,187 $2,374,261

The cost-driving issues came to light over the past several months as the plans for the project moved forward.

PCBs organic chlorine compounds used as insulators until the 1970s when they were found to have harmful health effects on humans were discovered in the window material at West Rocks Middle School leading to the largest increase in costs. Testing for PCBs and remediation increased the project cost by roughly $370,000 for abatement and $76,000 for additional testing and monitoring during construction.

The second largest increase in project costs stems from the discovery of an existing steel window wall system. Ireland called that a surprising and unusual unforeseen condition.

The discovery of that system requires the addition of steel plates, new supports and other details. Those changes added approximately $350,000 to the total costs.

The third largest increase centers on a secure and energy efficient main entry. The Connecticut building code now includes the requirement for a vestibule at the schools main entry, Ireland said. That change has increased the project cost by $200,000.

The additional scope of work and details, for items such as counters, window surrounds, blinds and AC panels added roughly $150,000, Ireland said.

Because of the new discoveries, the project has been separated into two phases, Hamilton said. Half of the project will be undertaken during the summer of 2017 and the second half will be undertaken during the following summer.

The architects determined that the now larger scope of the window replacement would run the risk of not completing the entire project during summer break. They said it would be advisable to divide the work into two phases as to ensure no interference with the opening of school in August.

The architecture firms fees increased by $15,000 to administer two bid packages and two separate summer construction periods.

Officials said the districts current appropriation of $1.1 million for the project is sufficient to cover Phase 1 of the project. School officials said they are currently working with city officials to identify potential ways to finance the remaining balance of Phase 2, and will bring forward a formal recommendation at a later date.

The board approved an updated Phase 1 of the plans Tuesday in a 5-2 vote.

Hamilton said a meeting is scheduled with the state Feb. 14 to review the final plans for the project.

KSchultz@thehour.com; 203- 354-1049; @kevinedschultz

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Cost to replace windows, doors at West Rocks more than double - Thehour.com

Window World can put a fresh face on homes

If you cant sell your house, you might as well improve it.

Thats the approach many homeowners have taken during the recent housing slump, and their improvement projects have often led them to Window World of Myrtle Beach.

People are staying in their homes and are upgrading their homes and making them energy efficient, said local Window World co-owner Scott DeHollander. What a lot of folks are doing is theyre air-sealing their homes, theyre increasing efficiency in their heating and cooling units and then replacing the windows is just part of it.

DeHollander and his wife Ronda have been operating a Window World business in Myrtle Beach for 15 years.

Before opening the store, Scott DeHollander had been looking to start his own business. He just happened to bump into the founder of Window World one day.

Thats kind of the end of the story, he said. Weve been here ever since.

The DeHollanders opened store No. 7. Window World, the largest window replacement company in the country, now includes more than 220 stores nationwide.

Although Window World offers everything from vinyl siding and entry doors to storm doors and hurricane protection, its primary product, as the name suggests, is windows.

The store offers bay, sliding, double-hung and garden windows, among others. In recent years, Window World has seen a greater interest in energy-efficient windows.

Just replacing a single-pane glass window with a Low-E insulated window can generate about 35 percent savings in energy bills, Scott DeHollader said.

We have had customers that have seen up to 50 percent, but thats kind of unique, he said. The windows in your home are always going to be your greatest source of heat loss. If theres anything that we can do to improve that, it just makes it that much better in

your house.

Along with meeting all coastal codes, Scott DeHollander said his windows carry the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval. Theyve earned a reputation for quality in the community. In 2013, Window World received a J.D. Power Award for customer service.

With great success, comes great responsibility. Through the Window World Cares program, Window World has raised $4 million to date for St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital and has flown over 53 missions for Veterans Airlift Command, flying injured vets as their needs arise.

Window World has been voted the best window company in the area by the Myrtle Beach Heralds readers for 13 straight years.

Scott DeHollander appreciates the positive feedback from his customers.

Our customers are our best salespeople, he said. I know Im giving our customers a good product at a fair price. So I can sleep in peace at night.

Window World is located at 131 Causey St. in Myrtle Beach. The store is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment on Saturday. For more information, call 445-9921 or visit windowworldofmyrtlebeach.com.

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Window World - Myhorrynews

MAKE DORNEY A GATHERING SPOT Although national concerns have recently occupied everyones minds, we cannot forget what is locally occurring. In regard to the $600,000 planned renovation of Dorney Plaza, I believe the intent of a community plaza is being entirely lost in the process of downscaling for the sake of money and security. There are many flaws noted in the most recent plans. Most glaringly, omitted are benches and an area for our community to gather, as the late Mr. Dorney had envisioned originally. If security was such an issue (earlier articles stated concerns about the courthouse lower windows, with the anticipated cost of window replacement as a possibility), why is the north sidewalk exactly next to this concerned area? And, why does it appear that the private owners of the newly renovated townhouses will benefit the most from this newest plan? How will the grass area be maintained, and what about the cherry tree debris? As Marathon has completed the lovely new green-spaced gathering area for their employees on Main Street, one could only hope for something similar for the common citizens as well. As Findlay studies reasons why it is difficult to find employees and retain youth, we need to explore what attracts people to up-and-coming cities. Walkable, inviting downtown spaces where people can gather are part of this equation. As planners proceed with downtown Main Street ideas of bumping out curbs, more medians and crosswalks, to entice more foot traffic to the wonderful array of restaurants, art galleries and entertainment, is it not short-sighted to be removing gathering areas in an already established public area? And yes, even workers peacefully gathering during strike negotiations is an integral necessity within our community. In a safe area, rightfully placed next to our courthouse, where rights have been established. The Day of Prayer space needs to be maintained and areas for other various community opinions and events as well. Are we really removing gathering spaces and benches because of the budget constraints? Our community deserves to have a gathering spot that is aesthetically pleasing, safe and open to all. Cathy M. Weygandt Findlay

RADICALS PUSHING THEIR AGENDA Anne Heche, Jessie J, Sen. Bob Dixon, Julie Cypher, and Gillian Anderson are a few of the celebrities who were in homosexual relationships who are now heterosexuals. A simple internet search will reveal many more. Jim Flechtner (letter, Feb. 1) now knows of homosexuals who have decided theyre straight. In my last letter (Jan. 24), I was referring to my own personal experience of homosexuals who turned straight. It would be extremely insensitive to name those who may be embarrassed by their past. Flechtner mentions epigenetic factors may cause inane homosexuality, but scientists admit this would be difficult to test. A four-year study by Dr. Neil Whitehead showed If an identical twin has same-sex attraction the chances the co-twin has it are only about 11 percent for men and 14 percent for women. Twins share the same DNA and the same womb; how can Flechtner explain this? He also asks, How can you possibly believe that anybody would voluntarily choose a lifestyle which would lead to the hatred, insults, mistreatment and even violence that gays must contend with every day? How does anyone become an alcoholic, porn or drug addict? Perhaps in a stressful or confused state, wanting to be accepted, wanting to be loved (sounds kind of like adolescence), they find comfort in a drug or behavior that allows them to escape their troubles. Or perhaps it is forced upon them. Even if we allow for some predisposition, we cannot deny the power of environment and choice. The 2016 fall issue of The New Atlantis contains an article by Lawrence S. Mayer and Paul R. McHugh, which concludes, Some of the most widely held views about sexual orientation, such as the born that way hypothesis, simply are not supported by science. They also found the majority of children who identify as the gender opposite their biological sex will not continue to do so as adults. The radicals among us insist we accept their views of sexuality as they push their agenda upon our children; as our public schools and the Boy Scouts become child abuse enablers. Don E. Waaland Findlay

ARE SPAS A WISE INVESTMENT? Apparently, all the medical needs of our community have been met. At least thats what I assume now that Blanchard Valley Health System announced that they are investing our health care dollars in not one but two med spas for vital services like Botox and hair removal. Is the emergency room so overstaffed that no one has to wait more than a few minutes for care? Is everyone in our community getting 100 percent of their health care needs met? Will they be offering a sliding scale fee for those they serve who cannot afford these expensive services but still want better cheekbones? The answer to these questions must be yes. Otherwise, how does the board of trustees justify spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on spas that only provide elective cosmetic procedures? The BVH website states, You are the fabric of this community, and we are truly honored to have been entrusted with serving your health care needs. Is this the health care need you thought you were entrusting them with? What I see is a health care system that has lost sight of its purpose in our community and a board of trustees that should be ashamed of its irresponsible financial oversight. Dennis Armstrong Findlay

ONE SIDE OF STORY A contributor to Readers Views recently wrote: When only one side of the story is told, it is called fake news. Since there are two sides to every story, I dont think I would call that fake news; I would just call it one side of the story. Dave Uitto New Riegel

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Letters to the Editor 02-09-17 - The Courier

Replacing old windows is often a worthwhile investment for homeowners. Energy-efficient windows can prevent heating and cooling loss and keep homes more comfortable throughout the year. Such windows also can improve a home's resale value, proving a good return on investment for homeowners who want to upgrade their homes before putting them on the market.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners might find it more cost-effective to replace old and/or inefficient windows to improve their energy efficiency. Such an upgrade can save homeowners substantial amounts of money on heating and cooling costs.

Window replacement projects can be costly, so it pays to get the job right the first time. Before beginning a window replacement project, homeowners should research which windows will meet their specific needs, learning the subtleties between finishes and features, as well as comparing prices for the windows and installation.

Choose the right time of year

The best time of year to plan window replacement is when the weather will be warm, ideally in the spring or early summer. However, homeowners do not want conditions to be too warm, as each room where new windows will be installed will temporarily be exposed to the elements. Furthermore, caulk adheres better in warmer weather and will dispense easily.

Locally, getting the job done in the warmer months still holds, but the main reason is to avoid the rainy season.

Basically what you dont want is downpouring rain, said Dave Crawford, co-owner of Battle Ground Building Supply.

He said precipitation is the biggest concern when installing new windows in the region, adding ambient temperatures around 50 degrees were desirable.

Consider available features

When replacing windows, homeowners may want to install the same style windows they currently have. But the problems that led to the need to replace windows may still exist even when new windows are installed. When replacing windows, consider energy performance ratings based on the locations of the windows in the house. To make sure they make the most educated decision, homeowners can investigate the solar heat gain coefficient, U-factor, visible transmittance and light-to-solar gain. Explanations of these ratings are available at http://www.Energy.gov.

For those looking for more energy efficiency, Crawford said it might be time to replace if current windows are aluminum-framed, as the metal isnt an insulator. Some of the older vinyl framed windows may also not be as energy efficient, but newer vinyl and fiberglass frames tended to be better suited for insulation.

Don't ignore

maintenance needs

Maintenance costs involved with cleaning, repairs and painting can add up. When shopping for windows, consider the amount of maintenance they will need. Wood-framed windows may require more upkeep than aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl. Also, consider if certain window types, such as double-hung windows,

casement windows, awning windows, or slider windows, would be practical.

Keep home style in mind

A poor match between windows and the style of the home can produce unwanted changes in the appearance of the home. Replacement windows should match the style and appearance desired.

Expect minimal disruption

When homeowners hire professionals who are good at their craft, window replacement projects should not be a terrible inconvenience. According to American Window Products, Inc., seasoned professionals will be able to complete a replacement window upgrade in a short amount of time depending on the size of the home and the number of windows being replaced.

Replacing windows can be a costly task, but one that will provide a more energy efficient home that can help homeowners save money in the long run.

Shop around

Before making the final decision of purchasing windows, looking at multiple retailers might also be a good idea, as Crawford explained prices can vary depending on who the vendor was.

You could get the same window from one company as you do another, and theres maybe a $300 price difference between one company versus the other, yet they all pay the same to get them, Crawford said.

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How to find the right replacement windows - The Reflector

As tradition has it, we enter a New Year by taking stock of what 2016 had to offer in order to assess whats to come.

This years annual Industry Pulse report is a bit of an anomaly, however, considering the recent election. Note that the survey ran just after Election Day through the end of November, when emotions were still running very high. Those reactions will have some bearing on some of the reported projections and, considering much of the nation is still holding in a wait-and-see pattern as the new administration takes the lead, there is still an air of uncertainty. Even so, the overall tone of the data suggests we are on the same path of general health and prosperity that weve documented the past two years.

The challenges of the industry take on the same themes as in the past as well. Respondents told us they are still concerned with overregulation, the still-recovering economy and a housing market that has yet to completely stabilize. Controlling costs, maintaining quality, keeping up with demandespecially during a labor shortageattracting new talent, and turning a profit are all still keeping our industrys finest up at night.

But despite these challenges and the ambiguity of the near future, sales are widely up, companies are seeking to hire and there are more products available to the market now than ever before.

If 2016 had a word, many would say it was uncertainty. The industry reported signs of hesitation among customers as the world speculated about an unprecedented United States election. Every election year, I see much of the same thing, says Joe Mills, Sunrise Windows & Doors. You talk to a lot of people, you give a lot of estimates, and hear a lot of well get back to you.

But, as the speculation finally gave way to a conclusion, the market at large improved. In fact, builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes jumped seven points to a level of 70 on the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index published in December. This is the highest reading since July 2005, NAHB reports.

This notable rise in builder sentiment is largely attributable to a post-election bounce, as builders are hopeful that President-elect Trump will follow through on his pledge to cut burdensome regulations that are harming small businesses and housing affordability, said NAHB Chairman Ed Brady. This is particularly important, given that a recent NAHB study shows that regulatory costs for home building have increased 29 percent in the past five years.

Many of those who opted to answer queries regarding the outcome of the election cited this very reasonDonald Trumps stance on federal regulationsas why they believed the new administration could have a positive impact on the industry. Those who believe the incoming administration will have a negative impact widely cited Trumps foreign and domestic trade policies as potential hazards to the industry, as well as economic and education policies. The respondents who have a positive outlook almost unanimously cited tax code reform and Trumps stance on federal regulations as a potential benefit. Another popular opinion among this segment was that the workforce skills and job training programs stand to improve under the new administration.

No matter your opinions on what the new administration will do for our industry, what really makes a difference, says Scott Gates, CEO of Western Window Systems, is businesses that try to make things better. You can overemphasize or over-define your strategy on what you think legislation is going to do, he says. But what we try to do is address what the customer wants. Because the customer is who actually makes decisions, and we feel like very rarely are you punished for making things better.

To put some of the product and sales trends in context, its important to understand which companies are doing business in new construction versus replacement. Of the manufacturers surveyed, 44% sell a majority of their products for replacement, 23% split their efforts evenly and 33% sell more products for new construction.

As for dealer respondents, 62% focus more than half their efforts on the replacement sector. Note that, of the remaining 38% that focus more on new construction sales, 77% are serving both commercial and residential markets.

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The 2017 Industry Pulse - Window and Door