April 1997
The remodeling bug has hit. In 1996 alone, $120 billion was spent on home improvements in the consumer market. By the millennium, consumer remodeling will sky-rocket to $180 billion annually, according to the national Association of Home Builders.
These figures show that today's homeowner is choosing to remodel instead of buying new. That is why many homeowners are concerned about the performance of their homes' existing features and are choosing to update these features with modern alternatives.
A remodeling item that has received a lot of attention is windows. A small change in windows can make a dramatic impact on the feeling that emanates from a room as well as improving the efficiency of the home, says Ron Clark of Clark Construction.
"A good portion of the work we do involves window replacement, sunrooms and additions that require more windows," Clark says. "And no other feature can make a positive effect on both the inside and outside of a home like a window can."
Today's technology in the window industry allows the homeowner to have a perfectly fitted window to replace existing, worn out windows. This feature not only adds beauty, but it saves money as well.
"Today's homeowner is concerned about the energy efficiency of a room, and replacement windows provide that benefit, as well as aesthetic value." Ron adds.
The frame of a window alone can make a difference in terms of energy efficiency. For instance, aluminum is a natural energy conductor, causing it to more readily lose heat in the winter and gain heat in the summer. Wood, on the other hand, is 1,770 times more efficient as an insulator than aluminum, according to the Wood Products Promotion Council. Wood windows provide the efficiency but can also be covered on the exterior with maintenance free materials.
Clark Construction has been selected by Pella Corporation and the local Pella distributor for designation as the #1 Certified Pella Contractor in all of Western Pa. They best demonstrate quality home remodeling and building skills. Pella's program provides members with on-going educational and marketing support, special training on the installation of windows and doors to help ensure the best fit and performance.
Clark Construction is located at 3180 Industrial Blvd, and has been serving the South Hills area for 26 years. The company, specializes in kitchen and bath remodeling, Corian fabrication, windows and doors.
For free information about making window decisions contact Clark Construction at 412-833-7222 or visit the Pella Windows web site at http://www.pella.com or call 1-800-847-3552.
Sue Clark, Clark Construction
April 1997