Practical Home Improvement is Popular

When it comes to home improvement, taking on the challenge yourself is in. Today’s savvy homeowners are tackling practical renovations, like adding energy-efficient replacement windows to update their home and save money on heating and cooling costs.

Tackle this checklist to help spruce up and maintain your windows and doors:

• Inspect interior and exterior finishes around windows and doors. Look for peeling or chipped finishes. Refinish if necessary.

• Check windowsills and tracks for dirt and debris. Clean out the area with a dry paintbrush. Do the same for patio doors.

• Feel for uneven sliding and sticking when you open and close a window. Try using a non-oil lubricant, like paraffin wax, on surfaces to help the window glide more easily.

Is it time to replace?

For safety’s sake, replace windows and doors that are jammed, painted or nailed shut. Also make sure you can open them quickly to escape during an emergency.

You can find energy-efficient ENERGY STAR-qualified replacement windows and doors, like those from Pella at your local Lowe’s. Look for ThermaStar by Pella vinyl windows with maintenance-free frames and advanced Low-E energy-saving glass. Walk through the Pella Design Center at Lowe’s for more inspiring options or visit lowes.com/pella.