There are many benefits to living in an HOA community. With your monthly dues, you can trust that your sidewalks are cleaned and cleared, home exterior standards are maintained, and your neighborhood is safe from unwelcome visitors. However, when living in an HOA community, exterior home changes may need to be approved by your HOA board.

Beyond approving your window choice, there are a few additional factors you’ll need to consider during window installation in an HOA. Failing to meet your HOA’s standards for installation may result in major fines and problems down the line. Thankfully, a reliable window replacement team should be able to help you navigate this with ease.

If you are preparing for an upcoming window installation in an HOA and want to learn more about how to prepare and what to expect, keep reading. 

Start by Reviewing Your HOA’s Window Replacement Requirements

Before you schedule any window installation in an HOA community, it is essential that you take a look at your community’s replacement requirements. HOA communities generally have strict exterior standards. They want the homes in their community to look cohesive, and choosing the wrong window can result in project rejection.

When it comes to window installation in an HOA community, the standards for your new windows include matching the following:

• Style
• Color
• Material
• Grid Pattern
• Glass Tint
• Security Bars

By double-checking the community’s window replacement standards, you can ensure the installation goes as smoothly as possible. It is crucial that you do not skip this step. Your HOA will not be lenient in this regard, and it can result in costly replacements and much more significant headaches than you realize. 

Get HOA Approval Before Scheduling Your Window Installation

Before scheduling window installation in an HOA community, you need to receive approval from your board. Even if you have reviewed the community’s window requirements and believe your chosen windows meet every standard, you should never assume approval is automatic. Most communities require you to submit an architectural review request before making changes.

This request may include information about your chosen window style, color, material, grid pattern, and installation plans. Your HOA may also ask for product specifications, photos, or documentation from your window replacement company. Because the approval process can take several days or weeks, it is best to begin this process as early as possible.

Do not schedule installation until you have received written approval from your HOA. Starting a project without permission can result in fines, project delays, or requirements to remove and replace your new windows. Taking the time to secure approval beforehand helps protect your investment.

How to Prepare Your Greenville Home Before Installation Day

While it is important that you reach out to your board before window installation in an HOA community, there are also things you need to do to prepare your home. There are expectations held by your board, but you also want to ensure the interior of your home is protected before this project begins.

If you want to keep your home, belongings, children, and pets safe before your window installation project, do the following: 

• Remove any large, bulky furniture that is located beneath or within 6 feet of your windows that may compromise installation. 
• Disconnect any major appliances or arrange for professional help disconnecting gas lines and hardwired dishwashers. 
• Take down any fragile wall hangings and store valuable belongings that may otherwise be damaged during your installation. 
• Make a plan for your pets and children, as they may otherwise be exposed to loud, disruptive tools, work, and installation teams. 
• Ensure your team has clear, unobstructed access to your home through your driveway 

What to Expect While Your New Windows Are Being Installed

Once installation day arrives, there are still going to be a few expectations put in place for you and your installation team. Window installation in an HOA includes ensuring your installation team removes the windows without damaging surrounding vinyl siding, flashing, trim, landscaping, and other properties. 

They will need to promptly haul away old window frames, glass, and packing materials. Beyond this, your team also needs to ensure common spaces, including sidewalks, are free from any debris that may make navigation difficult or impossible. This can result in major fines from your HOA community, which can make a costly project even more expensive. 

When you are partnered with a reliable window replacement team, you shouldn’t have to worry about anything during installation. They should have experience with window installation in an HOA community, and understand the expectations from the board. With their support, you can trust that you’ll have new windows without much hassle. 

Final Inspections, Cleanup, and What Happens After the Completion

Before your window installation team leaves, they should perform a final inspection on your windows. They will ensure that your windows operate properly, lock as expected, and aren’t damaged in any way. If problems arise during this inspection, they will need to be addressed before they leave to ensure your home is protected from potential problems down the road.

They will also need to perform comprehensive cleanup. If your team doesn’t perform proper post-project cleanup, you may open the door up to major fines from your HOA. This cleanup should include exterior debris sweeps, magnetic sweeps, and the removal of tarps, tools, and ladders from walkways and shared lawns. 

Any major debris should be disposed of in appropriate dumpsters. Shared community dumpsters shouldn’t be used for waste removal unless you’ve received permission from your HOA board. You’ll also need to submit proof of compliance to your HOA and clear any architectural review requirements to complete your project. 

Schedule Window Installation in an HOA with Surface Bella

Window installation in an HOA isn’t as straightforward as in other neighborhoods. However, if you partner with a reliable window replacement team, like our team at Surface Bella, you can avoid major obstacles. Our team will work closely with you and your HOA board to ensure everything meets community standards and expectations. You can avoid hefty fines, major replacement costs, and legal battles with your HOA when you partner with our experts on this upcoming installation.

If you would like to schedule window installation in an HOA community in the Greater Greenville area, please contact our team today. 

Greenville, South Carolina, was incorporated in 1831. With almost two centuries of history, there are several neighborhoods across the city with historic homes. From the Hampton-Pickney District to the Overbrook Historic District, there are several neighborhoods across the city with beautiful, unique homes that require specialized updates to maintain their style. 

If you’re considering upgrading the windows on your home in one of Greenville’s historic districts, you may be on the fence about whether casement or double-hung windows are right. Each option offers unique advantages and drawbacks, and it is essential that you take time to consider this information before making a decision for your space.

If you’re preparing to purchase new windows for your historic home and you’re unsure whether casement or double-hung windows are right, keep reading. 

How Casement and Double-Hung Windows Differ

Before you begin the window installation process, it is crucial that you understand the key differences between casement and double-hung windows. The biggest difference between these windows is their operation. However, there are a few other differences, including the following: 

	Casement Windows	Double-Hung Windows
Operation & Airflow	These windows operate on a crank system, opening outward. This allows for 100% opening and maximum airflow.	These windows slide up or down on a track, letting you open it simultaneously for the best air circulation.
Energy Efficiency	Casement windows press tightly against their frame when closed via a hook-and-lever mechanism, creating airtight compression.	These windows feature weatherstripping, but there is still a risk of air leakage because there are more moving parts.
Maintenance	If you want to clean these windows, you will either have to reach outside of the window or go outside to reach the glass.	Double-hung windows typically tilt inward, allowing you to clean the interior and exterior from inside your room.
Placement	Because they swing outward, they will need exterior clearance or they will block spaces like walkways, paths, and decks.	They operate entirely within their own plane, making them the ideal window choice near walkways, pushes, trees, and patios.

Why Double-Hung Windows Work Well in Historic Greenville Homes

When upgrading your historic home, you want to ensure you’re choosing a window style that is authentic to your home’s style. The best way to do this is by determining which style was popular when your home was built. For homes built around the 19th century, like those in Hampton-Pickney and the West End, double-hung windows are the ideal choice. 

These windows match the traditional proportions of Victorian, Craftsman, and Queen Anne style homes. You won’t have to worry about altering the historic facade of your home when installing these windows on your property. Instead, you can easily slot these windows into the existing openings without much concern about major exterior changes.

Beyond their aesthetics, these windows also allow for ample ventilation for those who are prioritizing comfort. The functional top sash allows homeowners to remove warm air, while the bottom sash can draw in cooler air. Whether you’re concerned about climate control or aesthetics, double-hung windows are the ideal solution for your Greenville historic home.

When Casement Windows Are the Better Choice

Although casement windows aren’t the most authentic to some historic home styles in the Greenville area, there are a few situations in which they are the better choice. Homeowners who have a Tudor, Craftsman, or early colonial cottage may be able to incorporate casement windows into their home without compromising on its style. 

Additionally, if you are looking for the most energy efficient window or an option that offers increased ventilation possibilities, this may make casement windows more appealing than double-hung windows. With their tight seal against their weatherstripping, these windows far outperform their sliding counterparts. 

It is important to consider the tradeoffs though. You will need to ensure there is ample clearance outside of the windows, and that they won’t interfere with outdoor spaces. Additionally, the open sash is more prone to damage during high winds. Finally, some historic review boards may not allow this choice, so it is essential that you check with them before making upgrades. 

What You Should Know Before Making Upgrades to Your Historic Home

While your energy efficiency goals are incredibly important when upgrading your old windows, it is still incredibly important to match your home’s historic style. In many cases, historic homeowners cannot simply make updates to their home that will impact their exterior without approval from their local historic review board. 

The Greenville Historic Review Board has developed a design guideline to help preserve each district’s unique appearance. If you are planning to replace the windows on your historic home, it is best to reach out to the board for their support. They can help you find the ideal replacements without compromising the appearance of your property. 

Without approval from the board, there is a risk that you’ll face legal penalties, fines, and stop-work orders. This can lead to costly pauses in your project and far more money spent than you originally budgeted for. If you want to protect yourself and your home, it is essential that you reach out to the board as soon as possible for support. 

Choosing the Right Windows for Greenville’s Climate 

In addition to choosing windows that match your home’s historic style, it is equally important that you find windows that are equipped to stand up to Greenville’s climate. The city deals with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and humidity throughout the year. Choosing the wrong windows for your historic home can lead to major discomfort during inclement weather conditions.

Consider talking to your window installation team about their double- or triple-pane window options, low-E coatings, and other energy efficient upgrades. With these more advanced windows installed on your property, you can match the exterior style of your home, increase everyday comfort, and avoid problems during storm season. 

While it might seem like a less important factor, choosing windows that match your historic home’s style while protecting you from poor weather conditions makes all the difference. Ultimately, it is important that you try to avoid making compromises when looking for an energy-efficient, climate-smart choice for your property.

Let Surface Bella Deliver Your Beautiful New Windows

Whether casement or double-hung windows are right for your home, our Surface Bella team is here to support you through every step of the installation. With years of experience helping homeowners across Greenville find their ideal window solutions, we’re confident that we can do the same for you. From the moment we arrive until our team leaves, we’re committed to providing you with expert support.

If you would like to schedule a consultation to begin discussing casement or double-hung windows for your historic home, contact us today. 

While Greenville is an incredibly beautiful place to live, you may want to enjoy the views and weather conditions without having to sit outside. Many homeowners who want to achieve this may invest in a new sunroom or screened-in porch build. But, as an important part of this process, you need to consider which windows are best for this space. 

Not all window styles are created equal, and you want to ensure you’re choosing the right style when building your dream sunroom or screened porch. Although it might not seem all that consequential, choosing the wrong windows for this space can majorly affect the appearance and comfort of this space.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common window style options to help you ensure you’re choosing the best windows for your Greenville home. 

Why the Right Window Style Matters for Outdoor Living Spaces

As you begin looking at window styles for your sunrooms and screened-in porches, you may be overwhelmed by how many options are available to you. You may be anxious about making the wrong choice for this space, and then spending thousands of extra dollars to replace them. It is true that the wrong window styles can majorly affect these rooms. 

Your windows act like an architecture bridge between your home’s interior and your outdoor living area. Your chosen window style can help create a more open, connected space, perfect for hosting your family and friends. Additionally, choosing the right window styles can boost airflow, which may be of the utmost importance to you. 

Finally, the right window styles can provide you with unobstructed, panoramic views. Whether you want views of your backyard, pool, or surrounding environment, the right windows can help you reach this goal. That’s why it is so important to take your time when going into the window selection process, and to not make a knee-jerk decision. 

Why Sliding Windows are a Practical Choice for Your Home

As you begin browsing through different window styles, one of the most common styles homeowners will consider is sliding windows. They are a popular choice due, in large part, to the fact that they are often the most practical addition to sunrooms and screened-in porches. These windows don’t require exterior clearance for everyday operation. 

This sliding function allows you to open windows without worrying about furniture placement in your home. These windows also allow for great ventilation and can maximize natural light. For homeowners who are prioritizing this natural light and ventilation, something like Eze-Breeze windows can perfectly meet this need. 

Finally, unlike some other window styles, sliding windows are lower maintenance than some other options on the market. If you are looking for a low maintenance option that is easily operable, it may be best to speak to your chosen window contractor about their sliding window options for your Greenville property. 

Casement and Awning Windows for Maximum Ventilation

While sliding windows are a good option for sunrooms and screened-in porches on your property, they aren’t the top option for anyone trying to maximize their in-home ventilation efforts. In situations where homeowners are trying to optimize their ventilation, it may actually be best to invest in casement or awning windows for your screened-in porch or sunroom. 

These windows open outward, either from the side or bottom, and can catch breezes as they blow past your home. This air is then funneled into your indoor living spaces. You also don’t need to worry about potential pest, dust, and debris intrusions. With interior screens, you can keep tiny insects and other loose debris out of your home. 

However, it is important to consider where you want to place your outdoor furniture and the maintenance of these windows. These windows are generally higher maintenance than other window styles, which may not be appealing to you. Additionally, if your outdoor furniture is situated right next to the windows, casement and awning windows may not be ideal. 

Picture Windows to Showcase Greenville’s Scenic Views

When you live in a place as beautiful as Greenville, you want to be able to capture every beautiful view you can see. That’s why, when considering your window style options, you may find yourself considering picture windows. When you live in historic neighborhoods like North Main, you want to take advantage of every beautiful view you can get. 

Picture windows will provide you with plenty of unobstructed views, allowing you to take full advantage of your beautiful neighborhood. However, these windows may also require more frequent cleaning. Even minor debris buildup can obstruct these views, so it is important to consider this before making the final choice for your home. 

How to Choose Your Perfect Window Styles

If you’re still on the fence about a few window styles, it may be in your best interest to reach out to your window contractors for support. However, before reaching out, consider each of the following to begin eliminating options for your sunroom or screened-in porch:

• Maintenance requirements
• Upfront cost
• Energy efficiency 
• Frame materials
• Window type and function
• Local climate
• Installation

With all of this in mind and the support of a trusted and trained window installation team, you should be able to make the best decision for your home.

Let Us Deliver Expert Windows Today

No matter what window styles you’re considering, our team at Surface Bella is here and ready to help. Our team is committed to providing you with expert support from the moment you reach out to us. Whether you’re on the fence about a specific window style or you’re ready to purchase and schedule installation, we are dedicated to making this process as simple and stress-free as possible. Don’t spend another day working on your own when our team is here and ready to help.

If you are ready to schedule a no-obligation consultation, contact us today.