Once you have determined whether you want internal or external shutters, choose what style you prefer. Solid or louvre panels are most common – some louvre designs are adjustable so you can control the amount of light that you let in. Manufacturers may offer a range of other options, such as tongue-and-groove, solid panels with designs cut out of them, or shutters that only cover the lower half of the window. Shutters can be made of traditional wood, as well as aluminum and a range of other materials. Wooden shutters require more regular maintenance than other materials such as aluminium. Whatever material you choose, it is worth buying pre-fininished shutters – louvred shutters are very time consuming to paint. Shutters are sometimes supplied with cathes to hold closed and tie-backs to secure them in an open position.

I’ve used bubble wrap on windows for two three years now, and I’m amazed how quick and easy it is.  This year, we are even covering the windows in the guest room — we just take the bubble wrap down when guests come, and put it back up when they leave — 15 seconds a window.

According to the US Department of Energy, as much as 10-25% of your heating and cooling bills can be attributed to energy lost through leaky windows. If your windows are outdated, your home’s energy efficiency may not be up to par. Well sealed new windows can lessen the heat transfer in and out of your home and ultimately be the answer to your energy cost savings. If you don’t think window replacement is a do-it-yourself job for you, save time and aggravation by hiring a contractor.

Contractor Hiring Tips
Before you hire a windows contractor here are a few things to consider:

• Determine the style, materials and fixtures you want. Be as specific as possible for a more accurate estimate
• Create a budget. Educate yourself on what is available and pair it with what you want.
• Get three estimates from licensed, reputable contractors. Use online referral sites and ask your friends and neighbors. Make sure each contractor has the same specifications so the estimates are comparable.
• Compare the pricing, materials, and lead times for each estimate.
• Make sure you have a written home improvement contract with your contractor including your contractor’s name, address, and phone number. The document should include: start and end dates, a detailed description of the windows installation, a list of the materials to be used, details of payment, and the contractor’s signature and license number.

Once you have a signed, written contract that details the job, there’s no disputing the original agreement. In the end you’ll enjoy the view from your window and energy savings.