Torgie’s Point of View

     A quote by Russel Baker expresses an accurate thought when speaking about summer, “Ah, summer what power you have to make us suffer and like it.”  This is certainly accurate when we think about the enjoyable days of summer, spending time with family and friends. However, the heat and at times extreme temperature may cause us to suffer. What can be done to help make our homes here in Wilmington, NC, more comfortable during that time of year?

     Some have seen the wisdom of installing exterior solar shades on their windows, patios, and porches to help with summer’s heat and glare. For example, the most energy efficient home in the country shown on FOX TV  in Chicago uses solar controlled window shades to reduce energy costs. These shades when installed outside the home reduce temperature in the home, blocking up to 90% of the sun’s UV rays.  Exterior solar shades are made of  all weather, woven, breathable fabrics in a variety of colors to fit any home. For ease and convenience these solar shades are retractable using a hand crank method or a motorized wall-mounted or remote device.  These shades also give you extended living space outdoors if used in patio, or porch areas. Something else to keep in mind is these shades protect windows while still allowing you to see outside.

     There are many products on the market to choose from. It is important to be well informed when making a decision about solar shades. SouthWest Sun Control is one company that carries a good variety of these shades. One product they offer is Phifer Suntex shade made of vinyl coated polyester that has a great deal of strength. For those environmentally concerned, Draper Screens offer “GreenScreen Revive Shade” made from recycled material. This shade uses “Microban”, an antimicrobial protection that works to stop the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew which may stain or damage the shade.

     Exterior Solar Shades while very helpful in summer, are also of value in the winter months. They work to reduce energy costs all year, saving you money. Functional, durable and fashionable, exterior solar shades do help keep you cool in the summer. To find the best value, best advice, and best selection contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-in-Home consultation. Be prepared, summer will soon be here!

Torgies   (KP)

     Hurricane season is from June to November. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and extreme weather inflict much damage to private and public property each year. North Carolina and three other southern states lead the nation in number of billion dollar weather related disasters. As a result, people here in Wilmington, NC have concern for the welfare of their homes and families. Doug Hoell, Director of Emergency Management states,”We do not know when the next big storm will come, but we do know it will come. Are you Ready? Be Safe and Be Prepared.”

     Protecting our homes and families by installing hurricane or storm shutters is one very important way to be prepared. These type of shutters are available in several different styles and designs. Colonial hurricane shutters are a Southern standard for many homes. These are two pieced louvered shutters that attach to the wall beside each window folding together to protect the window. Colonial hurricane shutters are easy to use, decorative, adding curb appeal to your home. Roll-Up and Roll-down custom built hurricane shutters are some of the most expensive and of  high quality. They attach above the window and can be lowered manually by a hand crank or automatically by push button. Another added feature, they roll-up and store in an enclosed box when not in use.

     Atlantic Premium Shutter Company offers several storm shutter designs. Bahama Storm System is a design based on shutters from the Caribbean. A one-piece louvered shutter attaches directly above the window and is held open to provide shade. They are easy to use and storm ready when lowered and secured with a camel-back locking system. They are described by Atlantic Shutters as having, “elegant, light appeal to deliver exteriors with a dramatic flair.” The Classic Collection hurricane shutter by Atlantic is available in Raised Panel, Faux Louver, Board and Batten designs. Strong aluminum storm bars are used to secure the shutters closed during severe weather. Each shutter is available in some 40 different colors and also custom colors.

     Storm ready shutters are economical, decorative and provide year round protection. Hurricanes strike North Carolina on the average every three years. “It only takes one,” is the 2009 message from the NOAA. Hurricanes are a part of life, get prepared. Contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington,NC for a free in home consultation to get your family and home hurricane prepared.

Torgies    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Designers around the world have long admired textures for the way they add design, depth, and character, to a home. There are virtually endless combinations of fabric, texture, and color to choose from when thinking about home fashion. Window treatments are no exception. With the variety of shades, blinds, drapes, and shutters to choose from, any decor can be yours. A somewhat recent addition to window treatments is the availability and affordability of faux iron inserts for shutters and specialty windows such as arches, transoms, and sidelights. Any room of the house is dressed up with the added texture and design of Tableaux Faux Wrought Iron.

     Tableaux Faux Wrought Iron products are constructed out of 100% post industrial recycled wood fiber with formaldehyde free resin, making this product affordable and Eco-Friendly. Faux iron is lightweight, about 10% the weight of conventional wrought iron and therefore has unlimited design options. It can be formed into any shape, square, rectangle, circular, or custom designed, with ornate, geometric, or floral patterns. There are two finishes to choose from, faux and organic which is based on a natural chemical process. Some traditional color options are, Antique, Gold, and Bronze Brass. Other colors to choose from include Amazon Emerald, Shanghai Sunrise, and Pacific Pearl, to list just a few. For decorative purposes it comes double-sided when both sides of the design are visible such as in a front door entry way or single-sided when only one side is visible such as used for high transom or arch windows.

     Faux iron inserts add interest and dimension to the home. They complete the look for any style shutter, changing them from simple to elegant. The addition of a valance or cornice with the faux iron insert, creates beauty and variety. For a more personalised effect, it is possible to incorporate logos, monograms, or crests, into custom designed faux iron inserts.

     Faux iron inserts are not just limited to window treatments. They can be used in a variety of ways, on doors, ceilings, skylights, both inside and outside the home. To get a complete look at what can be done with faux iron inserts contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgies     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     A quote by an Unknown Author states,” America’s number one energy crisis is Monday morning.” While many of us can identify with this statement, we are aware there is a much more serious energy crisis that we all face. As a result, many companies have seen the wisdom in designing products that help save the environment and provide us with energy saving options for our homes. Here in Wilmington, NC we are interested in energy saving products that are available.

     Window treatments and window coverings  have made great improvements in energy saving designs. One of the most effective and affordable ways to reduce solar heat through windows is to use window tint or film installed by professionals. Window tint has been shown to reduce up to 99% harmful UV rays. The advantages of using window tint are reduced energy bills, reduced fading of rugs and furnishings, reduced glare, and provide increase in safety. Reduced glare is important in rooms such as the office, den, or family room where television and computers are used. Window tint adds to the safety of your home as it can act as a deterrent to home invasion through the window. In a severe storm window tint can be a protection if the window shatters, holding it together providing safety for your family. Various types of window tints are also recommended by the Skin Cancer Institute as a protection against indoor exposure to UV rays that are harmful.

     Johnson Window Films is one company that offers Design Plus Solar Films and Safe Plus safety and security window films that are scratch resistant, easy to care for and last for many years.  Vista Window Energy Saving Film is also a product that gives maximum protection yet allows for a neutral look out the window from the inside. This window tint by Vista is recommended by the Society of Interior Designers because it adds to the beauty of your home.

     Every little bit helps. That is certainly true when we talk about saving the environment and saving money by saving energy. Therefore, it is important to contact a window treatment specialist in the Wilmington, NC area for a free in home consultation to view the many window tint ,window film options for your home.

Torgie          (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     One of the current trends in window fashion is the grommet drape for home or office. This style of drape is a popular choice because it is versatile, affordable and though they have a contemporary feel, can be incorporated into nearly any decor. These drapes will certainly enhance the beauty and function of your Wilmington, NC home and office.

     According to Webster’s New World Dictionary, grommet: an eyelet, as of metal, plastic, protecting an opening in cloth, leathers, etc. Grommets are available in different colors, and metals, such as brass, brushed silver, and nickel, to achieve just the right design. Grommet drapes are drapes made with a variety of un-pleated fabrics and have stylish circular grommets at the top that slip through a stationary rod hung across a window. This style of drape is easy to manually open and close, controlling the amount of light in the room.

     Grommet drapes can be purchased in basically three styles, lined, unlined, and sheer in nearly any material. For the energy conscience , grommet drapes can be lined with acrylic suede, blackout material, or other fabrics that add privacy and insulation, saving on energy bills. Sheer fabrics are a great choice where more light or air is desired, such as a kitchen or child’s room. Heavier fabrics such as silk, velvet, and chenille, add drama and sophistication to any living room or master bedroom. Bamboo, cottons, and canvas fabric grommet drapes have great appeal for those looking for a more natural decor. Grommet drapes in twill, canvas, and woven polyester used in the patio give privacy, protection, and comfort when outdoors.

     Grommet style drapes are designed from the simple to the elegant, depending on the fabric, rod, and finials you choose. The beauty of this drape comes from the natural way the fabric falls from the grommets and rod, which results in soft rounded pleats. Grommet drapes are a fashion trend that will complete any room decor in your home, office, and outdoor living space. With all the grommet drape choices available, talk with a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation. Grommet drapes are a popular trend here to stay.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Is your home in Wilmington, NC solar screen smart?  Solar screen smart means being aware of the benefits solar screens offer. These screens not only save you money, they add beauty and value to your home, now that’s smart.

     Here are a few reasons it is smart to choose solar screens for your porch, balcony, patio, and sun deck. Solar screens are a special screen mesh that deflect a large amount of the sun’s UV rays before they reach your home, reducing indoor temperatures up to 20 degrees  in certain rooms. Solar screens designed with Sunbrella shade fabric in various densities and colors, can block up to 93% of the sun’s heat and light. This results in substantial savings on electric bills, up to 60% in air conditioning costs.

     Solar sunscreens help protect your valuable rugs, drapes, and other important furnishings from fading or bleaching caused by the sun. One product that works very well is Sun Setter EasyShade, it is not only durable, heat resistant, but also fashionable.  This solar screen product will block out 80% of sun, wind, and mist, yet allow as much light and air as needed. Sun Setter EasyShade is available in three colors, cream, charcoal, and Desert Sand, complimenting any home.

     Solar screens can increase your living space and make living outdoors more comfortable, offering added protection against the natural elements.  They provide privacy, allowing you to see out, yet do not allow others to see in. Solar screens are a smart choice because they are easy to clean, simple to use, rolling up and down easily, retracting  completly when not in use.

   Being solar screen smart means it is important to take advantage of the benefits these screens offer.  It is solar screen smart to contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington , NC  for a free in home consultation.

Torgie    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     It’s that time of year again, the lazy, crazy, days of summer are here. The time of year when people here in Wilmington, NC look forward to the outdoors, chilling and grilling spending time with family and friends. However, outdoor living in Wilmington, NC has it’s challenges.  At times the weather can be humid, warm, even hot.

     One way we can enjoy the outdoors even during these summer months is to install outdoor awnings. Awnings are popular again and there are many reasons to consider having them installed at your home.

      Awnings block the sunlight before it reaches your patio, deck, or windows, which prevents all that heat from reaching your home. Some studies suggest that awnings can lower air conditioning use by 77% and reduce temperature indoors and outdoors up to 20 degrees. Another advantage of awnings is that they create a shaded environment that increase your outdoor living space, giving added protection to people, plants, furnishings, and pets. There is also less maintenance on your house, patio, or deck, because awnings can protect them from rain, humidity, and direct sunlight. Awnings are a great way to save on electric bills and add noticeable value to your home.

Patio and window awnings vary in style, fabric options, and price. For example, vinyl laminated polyester and woven acrylic are some recommended types of fabric to use depending on where you live. Awnings are available as either retractable or stationary depending on your individual area and needs. To determine what type of awning will best fit your style and budget, it is important to contact a professional Awning company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation. Awnings can be simple to dramatic and add beauty, style, and value to your Wilmington, NC home.

Torgie     (SW)

Wilmington, NC

Its almost that time of year again.  Spring is just around the corner.  In under 3 weeks, we will again Spring forward by adjusting our clocks to daylight savings time for the Wilmington, NC area.  This means warmer and longer days, giving all of us the chance to spend more time outside in the wonderful Wilmington, NC climate.

Many Wilmington, NC residents have a porch, deck, or patio in which they are preparing for those wonderful outdoor gatherings with friends and family.  There are many options that can be added to make that porch your home away from home.  One such option is a Retractable Awning.

Retractable Awnings provide shelter from the sun or protection from light rain.  They help protect from those harmful UV rays and  they give you that added shelter making the porch or patio an extension of the home.  Awnings are easy to operate, look great, extremely durable, and tie in nicely with any home.  A quality awning isn’t usually visible from just a quick glance.  A professional awning dealer can help you make a great decision when it comes time to purchase one for your Wilmington, NC home.  Available in a wide range of fabrics and colors, from hand crank to motorization, there is an awning to fit your needs.

Call a knowledgeable dealer today and see how one of these amazing products can add protection and functionality to your Wilmington, NC home.

Torgie

Wilmington, NC