What to Expect When Buying Doors and Windows

Wood Streets - Riverside California

When it comes to upgrading your home, choosing the right doors and windows is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Not only do they impact the look and feel of your home, but they also affect energy efficiency, security, and long-term value. Here’s a guide on what to look for and what to expect when buying doors and windows for your home.

1. Consider Your Home’s Style and Design

Doors and windows come in a variety of styles and materials. Whether you’re looking for classic wooden doors, modern sliding doors, or energy-efficient vinyl windows, it’s important to choose products that complement your home’s aesthetic. A trusted door and window contractor can help you find the right options for your Riverside home.

2. Prioritize Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient doors and windows can help reduce heating and cooling costs while keeping your home comfortable year-round. Look for products with high Energy Star ratings, low U-factor, and proper insulation. Modern window replacements often feature double or triple panes, low-emissivity coatings, and durable frames.

3. Security Matters

Home security should never be overlooked. Consider doors with reinforced frames, multi-point locks, and solid cores. For windows, laminated glass or impact-resistant options can provide extra protection. Security doors and security screens for doors are also excellent investments to enhance safety without compromising style.

4. Quality of Materials and Durability

Doors and windows are long-term investments, so quality matters. Look for trusted brands and materials designed to withstand Riverside’s climate. Your contractor can guide you toward durable options that resist warping, fading, and wear over time.

5. Professional Installation

Even the best doors and windows can underperform if not installed correctly. Hiring an experienced door installation contractor or contractor for window replacement ensures proper fit, sealing, and alignment. Professional installation also helps prevent drafts, leaks, and other common issues.

6. What to Expect During the Process

When working with a reputable Riverside doors and windows contractor, you can expect:

• A free consultation to assess your home’s needs

• Guidance on materials, styles, and energy-efficient options

• Accurate measurements and precise installation

• A clear timeline and minimal disruption to your home

7. Budget and Warranty Considerations

Finally, consider your budget, but remember that quality often pays off in the long run. Look for products that come with warranties, both on the materials and installation, to ensure peace of mind.

Conclusion:

Buying doors and windows for your home is an investment in comfort, security, and curb appeal. By focusing on style, energy efficiency, durability, and professional installation, you can make a choice that enhances your Riverside home for years to come. If you’re ready to upgrade your doors and windows, contact Hawks Doors and Windows today for a free consultation. Our expert team specializes in door installation, window replacement, security doors, and more in Riverside and Corona, CA.

Shades vs. Blinds: Pros and Cons for Your Home

Shades by Pella

When you invest in new door and window installations, the finishing touches matter just as much as the glass and frames. One of the most common design choices homeowners face is deciding between shades and blinds. Each offers unique benefits in terms of style, privacy, light control, and maintenance. At Hawks Doors and Windows, our Riverside-based contractors work closely with homeowners to make sure every detail—from windows to window coverings—fits their vision and lifestyle.

Bamboo Shades

The Pros of Shades

1. Elegant, Soft Appearance Shades create a clean and modern aesthetic, with fabric options ranging from light-filtering sheers to bold blackout designs.

2. Improved Energy Efficiency. Cellular and insulated shades work hand-in-hand with energy-efficient windows, reducing heat transfer and lowering energy costs.

3. Enhanced PrivacyFabric shades provide complete coverage, giving you privacy without sacrificing natural light.

Cons of Shades:

• Fabric can collect dust and may require more cleaning.

• Less durable in homes with pets or kids compared to blinds.

Wool Blinds

The Pros of Blinds

1. Superior Light Control blinds allow you to tilt slats for just the right amount of sunlight, making them versatile for any room.

2. Long-Lasting Durability. Available in wood, faux wood, vinyl, or aluminum, blinds hold up well in high-use spaces.

3. Easy Cleaning. Dusting blinds is simple—just a quick wipe-down compared to fabric shade maintenance.

Cons of Blinds:

• They provide a more practical look, which may not feel as cozy as shades.

• Slats can bend or break if not carefully handled.

Which Should You Choose?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Shades are ideal for homeowners looking for comfort and design variety, while blinds are best for durability and flexibility. Many homeowners in Riverside, Corona, and Moreno Valley choose a mix—blinds for kitchens and bathrooms, shades for bedrooms and living areas.

Why Work With Local Contractors?

At Hawks Doors and Windows, our trusted contractors don’t just handle door and window installations—we also provide guidance on the finishing details that elevate your home. Whether you’re upgrading with a retrofit or planning a new construction project, we’re here to help.

👉 Call Hawks Doors and Windows today for a free consultation and discover how we can make your home more stylish, efficient, and comfortable.

Why Laminated Windows Are a Smart Upgrade for Your Home

Laminated Glass

When it comes to upgrading your windows, homeowners often prioritize energy efficiency first. But there’s another powerful option that can bring safety, comfort, and peace of mind to your home: laminated windows.

Laminated glass has long been used in car windshields, but it’s becoming increasingly popular in residential settings—and for good reason. Let’s explore what laminated windows are and why they might be the perfect fit for your home.

What Are Laminated Windows?

Laminated windows are made of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a durable interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This interlayer holds the glass in place if it breaks, preventing dangerous shards from scattering.

Think of it as a sandwich of glass and plastic—strong, secure, and designed to perform in ways traditional single-pane or standard double-pane windows cannot.

UV Protection

The Benefits of Laminated Windows

1. Enhanced Safety & Security

• Break-in resistance: Laminated glass is significantly harder to shatter, acting as a deterrent to burglars.

• Shatter protection: Even if the glass cracks, the interlayer keeps it intact, reducing the risk of injury from sharp fragments.

This makes laminated windows an excellent choice for entry points, ground-floor windows, or large glass doors.

2. Superior Noise Reduction

The PVB interlayer also acts as a sound barrier, absorbing and dampening outside noise.

• Great for homes near busy roads, airports, train tracks, or loud neighborhoods.

• Provides a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment.

3. UV Protection

Laminated windows block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting your home’s:

• Hardwood floors from fading

• Furniture and upholstery from discoloration

• Artwork, rugs, and other valuables from sun damage

This helps preserve the beauty of your interior for years.

4. Storm & Impact Resistance

In areas prone to high winds, heavy storms, or earthquakes, laminated windows provide an added layer of protection. The interlayer keeps glass intact even under strong impact, reducing the chance of dangerous breakage and protecting the home’s envelope from exposure to wind and water.

5. Energy Efficiency & Comfort

While laminated glass isn’t the same as insulated glass units (IGUs) with argon gas, it can be combined with low-E coatings and double-pane designs to boost energy efficiency. This means you can enjoy both:

• Lower heating and cooling costs

• More consistent indoor temperatures year-round

Energy Efficiency

Are Laminated Windows Right for You?

Consider laminated windows if you:

• Value safety and security for your family

• Live in a busy or noisy area

• Want to protect interiors from fading

• Reside in a storm-prone region

• Are you upgrading to a high-end or long-term investment home

While laminated windows typically cost more than standard glass, the benefits—especially in terms of safety, comfort, and property protection—often outweigh the initial investment.

Final Thought

Laminated windows combine the best of modern glass technology with peace of mind that’s hard to put a price on. Whether your top priority is home security, noise reduction, UV protection, or storm safety, laminated windows are a versatile upgrade that adds lasting value to your home.