A Guide To Skylights Vinyl Windows

by: Rene Knops

A definition and description of the different types of skylights vinyl windows that can be installed in a home. Skylights vinyl windows are a familiar architectural sight in most modern day homes. They are usually situated in smaller rooms that don't have a lot of light because of a need for privacy (such as a bedroom or bathroom) or in larger rooms that are leant a sense of majesty from having the sunlight pour in through a vast gap in the roof.

The reason it is important to have skylights that are seamed with vinyl is that they help keep cold air out and warm air in. However this can be a drawback if you live in a hot climate and the sun is beating down through your skylight vinyl windows all day. In hotter climates tinted skylight windows or ones equipped with automatic shades are more useful so that the cost of your air conditioning does not rocket sky high. Skylight vinyl windows are best utilized in colder, damper climates where insulation from the elements is needed.

The larger they are the better skylights vinyl windows look in any room. The usual size of skylight vinyl windows is between one and four square feet. Cubbyhole sized ones just look tacky unless they are highlighting a sculpture or a plant.

However sometimes you only have room for a small vinyl sealed skylight in which case it is recommended that you buy one that has a funnel shape that is wider at the bottom. This allows more light than normal to be filtered into the room from the skylight and then be spread and reflected over a larger area. Light adds heat. Make sure that this type of skylight is also vented to allow heat to escape if you live in a hot climate.

In essence there are three different types of vinyl sky light windows.

Vented Skylight. The vented skylight is more of a modern entity, as before the late eighties most skylights did not have the ability to open or close. These types of skylight vinyl windows can be opened either electronically or manually. The vinyl stripping around the frame of the window prevents them from leaking rain.

Sun Tunnels. Sun tunnels are essentially holes that are about a foot wide that allow sunlight through to dim areas of your home. They are installed to allow more natural light into bathrooms, basements, attics and even closets!

Skylight Window Shades - These are skylights that come with a lid. Sometimes it isn't always ideal to have the sunlight brightening your room especially if you want to take a nap or view a movie in the dark. These types of skylights come with a remote that allows you to adjust the amount of light in the room.

Skylight vinyl windows are so secure and water proof that the need to frame the skylight with wood is no longer necessary. The vinyl also prevents double paned windows from sweating. However if you prefer the more elegant, finished look of wood wrapped windowpanes they can be easily fitted around skylight vinyl windows to achieve a more traditional appearance.

About The Author Rene Knops helps you get a clear view for choosing beautiful window blinds, shutters or window treatment at lowest prices. for Details visit: http://www.ChoosingWindowBlinds.com.

Caring For Your Vinyl Siding

by: Henry Gallant

A low maintenance and durable material, vinyl siding is an increasingly popular home exterior. Even though it is a low maintenance material, you will still want to clean your vinyl siding from time to time. Just make sure you know about the best cleaning methods before you get started.

Simple maintenance cleaning of your vinyl siding is fairly straightforward. Use a long-handled brush with soft bristles or a soft cloth to wipe it down with soap and water. If your vinyl siding has textured surfaces to it, you will want to use only the brush with soft bristles so as to avoid wiping stains into the grooves with a cloth. Start with the vinyl siding at the bottom of your house and work your way up. This will help to prevent streaking from the soapy water running down your house. If you have other materials, such as brick, on parts of your home, cover them so that runoff from your vinyl siding will not affect it. Lastly, always make sure you rinse the area before the cleaning solution dries.

If you want to speed the process of cleaning your vinyl siding along, you can buy or rent a power washer. First of all, however, make sure you have read the instructions on the power washer thoroughly. Second, always make sure you use the power washer at eye level. If you try to point upward, you may end up with water and cleaning solution behind the vinyl siding. These can later leak and cause streaks that can eventually lead to decay.

From time to time, you may find spots of mold or mildew on your vinyl siding. If these spots are small, then you can simply use a name brand household cleaner. Just always be sure to test it on a small portion of your vinyl siding in an inconspicuous place to make sure it will not damage it at all. If, however, the spots of mold or mildew are a little larger, you can use a solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water. Another common homemade solution is mixture of powdered laundry detergent, powdered household cleaner, liquid bleach, and water. It is best to just find the one that is most convenient and effective for you.

Not all vinyl siding stains, however, are mold or mildew. You may end up with dirt, soot, or even animal stains on the outside of your home. If that is the case, there are a number of general cleaners that are approved for use on vinyl siding. Check your local store for simple household cleaners, and then read the containers carefully to find out if they are effective and safe for use on vinyl siding and specifically on whatever the stain is that you have found on your vinyl siding.

Increasingly, vinyl siding is a common home exterior. It is low maintenance, attractive, and easy to install. You may, though, from time to time need to clean your vinyl siding in order to keep it in good working condition. Before you do, make sure you understand what is necessary and what the proper procedure is so that your vinyl siding will look good and last a long time.

About The Author Henry Gallant is an expert author at http://www.vinylsidingetc.com, a comprehensive resource on vinyl siding. Visit http://www.vinylsidingetc.com to get more information for your next vinyl siding home project.