The Cut Rate Glass Blog

Mirror

The Advantages of Using Mirrors in Interior Design

15Jan2021

Did you know that modern-day mirrors actually originated in 1835?

This was the year when Justus von Liebig, a German chemist, found a way to apply an incredibly thin layer of metallic silver onto a sheet of clear glass. It was the first time anyone made anything like the mirrors we know and love today.

Since then, mirrors have cemented their place in the world of interior design. From stylish offices to dining rooms around the world, you can find a mirror in almost every building you visit!

But, what’s so important about mirrors in interior design, and what could they add to your interiors?

Create an Illusion

One of the main arguments for using mirrors in interior design is the fact that they create an illusion. We’re not talking about making people see double or conjuring up things that aren’t there; mirrors actually create the quite simple illusion of more space. Although as an illusion it’s not that impressive, in the world of interior design making a room look bigger is as good as magic!

If you’re working with a small space, a mirror can help open it up and add depth. Give it a go and see what it does for your interior.

Let the Light In

Clever mirror work in interior design can make rooms not only look bigger, but brighter too. Let the light in my placing your mirror near or opposite a window, helping maximize the amount of natural light in your room. No matter how gray it is outside, your mirror will reflect any light there is and help brighten your rooms.

If you’re wondering how to use mirrors in interior design, a lot of designers opt for mirror walls in dark spaces, such as walk-in-closets. Just like natural light, the artificial lights in these rooms will bounce off the mirrors, making the space seem much better lit than it actually is.

If you’re going for a more ambient vibe, mirrors can help. By placing candles in front of your frame or angling it to reflect a fireplace, you can make them more of a statement piece. Their flickers will be reflected in the mirror, creating double the effect!

Add a Statement Center Piece

When it comes to the best ways to use mirrors in interior design, a lot of designers opt to make them a feature piece. Rather than hiding your mirrors in the corner, make sure they stand out. In large rooms, an oversized mirror can create a grand, modern look.

If you’re working with a smaller space, you can still opt for large mirrors, but stick to frameless options. These are incredibly stylish and won’t lead to your room feeling cluttered, and you’ll still get the space-illusion benefits we mentioned earlier.

Bathrooms are one of the spaces that can benefit the most from a statement mirror. Not only do these serve a practical use when getting ready, but they can also lift a dull space, adding a luxurious feel to the room. Wall-mounted mirrors are best for bathrooms and many designers like to add additional lighting to help them suit their purpose and create a contemporary look.

If you have a large bathroom, a wall-length, rectangular mirror is a great option. Or, why not create a more unique look by having a set of many smaller mirrors? Play around with ideas to see what works best in your space.

Hide Small Imperfections

Mirrors are a saving grace if you’re struggling with wall imperfections. From cracks to peeling paint, the right mirror can hide pretty much any problem! If you don’t have the funds or time to fix the issue and it won’t become more of a problem over time, a mirror is a perfect cover-up.

Remember, too, that no mirror is ever too big as long as you have the wall space for it! If you’re dealing with a large area of paint damage, an even larger mirror will cover it up without looking out of place.

Have Fun With Shapes

For some people, a well-designed mirror can have the same eye-catching effect as a painting or photograph hung on the wall. It’s a design feature, so let it stand out! Play around with the shapes of mirrors available, using circular designs for an ultra-modern look and abstract shapes for something a little more fun.

There are also plenty of options when it comes to frames, helping mirrors become a work of art in their own right. For a grand dining room, an ornately carved, gold frame is perfect for a touch of sophistication. In the bedroom, keep things casual with a simple wooden frame, leaning your mirror against the wall for laid-back chic.

A brilliant way to make an art piece out of mirrors is by having more than one. Place the biggest one at the back, leaning it against a wall, propping the medium-sized frame in front, and finishing with the smallest. This is such a simple way to add a bespoke feel to a room, creating a center-piece for your space in an instant!

Play Around With Mirrors in Interior Design

There’s no arguing the importance of mirrors in interior design. Any qualified designer will tell you that they can draw a room together, creating an impact that other furnishings just don’t.

If you’re missing out on mirrors in your home, Cut Rate Glass are here to help. We can design and install bespoke, wall-mounted mirrors to liven up your spaces and add that finishing touch your room has been missing. If you’d like to find out more, feel free to get in touch with our team today!

Windows

How to Install Windows: Why You Should Avoid DIY Installation

8Dec2020

Are you considering adding new windows to a home? With the expense of good quality frames and glazing, it can be tempting to install them yourself. However, before you consider a DIY installation, you should know the process and procedures you must go through.

Knowing them can help you get a better idea of the time, cost, and labor involved in the process. Below, we give you a must-read guide on how to install windows.

Pros and Cons of DIY Installations

The main reason you would do a DIY installation is cost. Undoubtedly, it will save you a lot of money. However, the reason window installation can be expensive is that it is a very skilled job that will cost you more to fix if you get it wrong.

As well as being a specialist job with multiple processes, replacing a window is actually dangerous. If you are above ground level, you will be handling glass while working up ladders. Even on ground levels, a mistake can be extremely costly.

As you will soon see, the process is also extremely long and labor-intensive. To do it correctly needs a lot of fine-tuning and balancing. A poorly installed window can seriously damage your curb appeal, property value and decrease the energy efficiency in your home.

Measuring New Windows

Installing windows begins when you take the measurements for your new windows. You must make sure you have the correct width and height, measuring inside the existing frame. This is quite complicated, as you need to measure in multiple places.

Firstly, measure the height at the left, middle, and right of the window. Then do the same in the horizontal axis, going from the bottom, middle, and top. It would be best if you took the smallest measurement from each as your size guide so that they fit properly.

If you happen to make a mistake here, you will end up with a big problem. The window frame will be too large, leaving huge gaps. A professional will know how to measure both the windows and frames correctly.

Removing Old Windows

The type of window you are removing will determine how you remove it, though there are some universal methods that apply to all windows. Once more, a professional will know the specifics, so if you have a particularly difficult window style, call in help.

If your windows look like they wear made before 1980, they may contain lead paint. This is one instance when you should hire a professional with the correct equipment, as you will be dealing with poisonous materials.

If you have a storm window, start by removing this. You may be able to lift it out, or you may have to remove some screws or score the edge with a knife.

Older windows have sash springs and weights, which need to be removed very carefully. As the springs are under tension, they can snap back into the track. You need to be wary of the springs and plastic covers, and it is another instance where you may be better off hiring contractors.

Windows that are on weights need to fall inside the frame. Do this by cutting the cords.

Next, you need to identify and remove any stops on the window. You are looking for any interior stops, parting stops, and exterior stops. If you are installing windows from the outside, you can leave the interior stops in place.

Removing stops becomes tough when they are embedded in the frame. This will require an oscillating saw. Contractors will have the correct tools for this.

Any holes should be filled with wood filler. Damaged, weathered, and rotten wood will need replacing. Any weight chambers will also need to be filled with insulation.

How To Install Windows Yourself

Start by cleaning the sill and applying flashing tape. Flashing tape should fit on the sill and reach up the vertical.

The sill must be level before you progress. If it is not, you will need to install shims to even it out. If you are not familiar with them, check online, or call a professional.

Place the window in the space to see if it fits. Do not add any adhesive or mountings; this stage is purely to check they fit. Heavy windows will require assistance.

Before securing the window, you will need to apply the caulk. This is a specialist process that you could try on your own. However, you will need to get it correct and need the tools and materials.

Once the caulk is in, place the windows in against the stops. Secure the window using more shims. Drill the screws into the shims through the pre-drilled window holes.

Check the sashes sit in the frames and use more shims if required. Check the window is even and operates correctly. Apply more shims as appropriate.

Fill any gaps, applying foam insulation from the outside. Larger gaps may need backer rod weatherstripping, which an expert could provide for you.

Next, you must cut the sill adaptor to the appropriate height. You will need to drill weep holes into the adaptor to let out any moisture. You can then begin sealing the window and applying the exterior trim.

Hire a Professional

Now you know how to install windows, you can see that it is not an easy or quick process. Yes, you may save time doing it yourself. But do you want to take the risk with something so valuable, doing a specialist skill?

If you are installing new windows in the Las Vegas area, then contact Cut Rate Glass. We are experts in window installation, with affordable prices. Contact us today for a quote, saving you time and money on a window fitting.

Cutrateglass, Windows

This Is How to Choose a Window Installer in Las Vegas

16Nov2020

You’re looking to install new windows on your home. You need a window professional to help you with the task. The only trouble is that you don’t know how to choose a window installer.

What characteristics should you be looking out for, anyway? Good question, and one that we can answer. Without further ado, here are the keys to choosing a window installer in Las Vegas.

Make Sure the Installer Has Some Experience

Every window installer has to get their start somewhere. But there’s no reason to let that start be at your house. Utilizing the services of a new window installer is inherently risky, as the installer doesn’t have the experience necessary to have corrected their mistakes or to have honed their skills.

As such, you’re advised to avoid inexperienced window installers like the plague. Instead, you should choose an installer with at least 2 years of experience under their belt. 2 years is sufficient enough time for sharpening skills and moving past rookie mistakes.

Once an installer has 2 years of installation experience, they’re bound to be just as effective as someone who has been installing windows for 10 years. It’s all about breaking through the threshold.

Find an Installer With Quality Suppliers

When you hire a window installer, you are indirectly choosing the types of windows that are available to you. Different installers work with different suppliers and some of these suppliers aren’t quite up to snuff. So, before making a hire, you need to make sure that your chosen installer is, indeed, working with quality suppliers.

Often, window installers will list their suppliers on their websites. If you can’t find a list of suppliers on an installer’s website, you’re just going to have to make a call and ask.

Once you’ve obtained the installer’s list of suppliers, research them to make sure they manufacture high-quality products. Comb over their websites, look up customer reviews, and make sure you’re getting something of substance. These windows will be on your home for years to come and you want to make sure that they’ll give you what you need.

Make Sure the Installer Can Install the Window of Your Choice

Not all window installers are capable of installing the same windows. Whereas some installers can install every type of window under the sun, others are only experienced in the installation of basic windows, like hung and casement windows. In fact, some won’t even offer alternatives to these.

As such, before making a hire, you need to be sure that the installer can accommodate your project. Take a look at the installer’s website and see if it lists the types of windows that they’ll install. If it doesn’t list these windows, you’ll have to make a call.

Most importantly, don’t settle for a window you don’t like for the sole purpose of avoiding research. Again, you’re going to have these windows for the foreseeable future. It’s vital that you enjoy them.

Consult Google

Just as you should use customer reviews to assess different window suppliers, you should also use customer reviews to assess different window installers. Where can you find these customer reviews? Google!

Just type “window installer Las Vegas” into the search engine and wait for the results to pop up. You should receive results from Google, Facebook, Yelp, and a few other platforms.

Sift through these results and see which installers have the best star ratings. Try to focus on installers with a star rating of at least 4 stars. Then, click on them and see what past customers have to say about them.

This will help you determine the pros, cons, and in-betweens of every installer. It will also help you to compare different installers against one another.

Ask About Cost

Not every window installation contractor is going to charge the same rate. Rates will vary based on experience, the types of windows being installed, and the contractor’s business model. So, before hiring a window contractor, make sure to ask around and get estimates from several candidates.

Any decent window installer will provide you with an estimate without complaint. If a contractor won’t give you an estimate, you shouldn’t utilize their services.

It’s important for you to have a full picture of the expenses you’ll face. That way, you won’t be hit with any surprise bills after the project has ended.

Make Sure the Installer Is Insured

When it comes to hiring a window installer, few factors are as important as insurance. If a window installer is uninsured and causes damage to your property, you could find yourself embroiled in a lawsuit as a means of trying to recoup money for those damages.

There’s also a risk of the installer’s employees getting injured on your property. If this occurs, and if the installer doesn’t have insurance, you could actually be held liable for the employee’s injury. This could lead to court appearances and money lost.

As such, before making any hires, you need to see proof of insurance first. Not only do you need to see general liability insurance, but workers’ compensation insurance as well.

If your prospective installer can show you both of these, you’ll be good to go. If they can’t, you’re advised to start looking elsewhere.

Need a Reputable Window Installer in Las Vegas?

Still haven’t found a reputable window installer in Las Vegas? Look no further! We here at Cut Rate Glass have you covered.

We install everything from residential windows to Sliding Glass Doors and more. Offering a huge variety at exceedingly low prices, we’re sure to have something that suits you.

Cutrateglass

5 Qualities of a Great Glass Repair Service: Find the Right Company

11Oct2020

If you need to find a glass repair service, look no further.

No matter what kind of glass repair you need, you can find a service that will suit your needs. However, finding an excellent service that offers affordable repairs can be difficult unless you know what to look for.

Whether you need a glass shower repair service or window glass repair service, you’ll need to look for the same qualities. All glass repair services offer similar things, but they operate a bit differently. While it may seem confusing at first, you just need to look for things that ensure you have a positive experience.

Read on to learn about five qualities to look for in a glass repair service!

1. Good Customer Service

When it comes to finding a great class repair service, one of the main things that separate great services from others is customer service. Customer service is something that many businesses struggle with, so you can guarantee that a company is reliable if its customer service is good.

If you have a problem with something, you should be able to get a solution for it as soon as you contact the glass repair service. For example, if someone from the company installed a window incorrectly, the glass repair service should offer to fix it as soon as possible without charging you.

You should never work with a service that doesn’t offer good customer service because it shows that they don’t care about its customers. In most cases, you can learn about whether a company has good customer service by reading its Google Reviews.

2. Reputable Services

Whenever a sliding glass door lock glass repair service or any other type of glass repair service becomes popular, it’s because they’re great at what they do. You’ll have an easier time trusting a company that’s known for its reputable services.

When a glass repair service builds up its reputation, you’re more likely to see positive reviews. Keep in mind that you should still check the negative reviews to see what everyone has to say. However, you’ll most likely have a positive experience if that’s what most people experience.

While you can find smaller companies that offer great services, it’s best to stick with those that are well-known. Should you find someone that interests you, see if they have hype around its name. Popular companies often offer deals and various services that attract people to maintain their reputation.

3. In-Person Estimates

If you need a sliding glass door repair, glass shower installation, or window repair services a great glass repair company will want to see the job in person. This allows them to fully understand your specific job needs and allows them to provide an accurate and fair estimate for services.

That is a part of the great customer support that glass repair companies provide. If you can’t find a service that’s willing to give you a free in-person quote regarding the repair service, you may want to avoid them. You shouldn’t take it personally if they decline, but you can find better services elsewhere.

When it comes to glass repair, you won’t be charged the same for each service as requirements change with each job. You can get a quote with a glass repair service to see how much it will cost to replace something, and they’ll come up with a value that makes sense for your situation based on the facts.

To determine the full job requirements a visual inspection is incredibly important. It also saves potential misunderstandings and unexpected charges after the job is completed.

4. Flexible Appointments

Scheduling an appointment can be frustrating when a service has strict hours. Fortunately, great glass repair services operate at flexible hours that make it easier for clients to schedule an appointment at any time.

Here at Cut-Rate Glass, we work from 6 AM to 4 PM from Monday to Friday, giving you plenty of time in the day to fit in an appointment. If a company does something like only offering appointments in the afternoon, look for someone else that’s more flexible.

The only time it’s understandable that a company would be strict about its appointments is if you’re trying to schedule something on a day that’s dedicated to something. For example, if a company won’t work on Sunday, you can’t expect them to repair your glass on that day.

5. Updated Website

When glass repair services are trying to attract customers, they’ll create professional-looking websites filled with information. You should never work with a company that doesn’t have a website.

Finding a company with an updated website is important because you’ll find what services they offer, you can get a quote, and they may have a blog that talks about its industry. When it comes to glass repair, its website should talk about the types of repairs that they do so you can tell if they have what you need.

Start Working with a Glass Repair Service Today

After reading this article, you know now what you need to do to find a great glass repair service. Providing that you look for all of these qualities, you shouldn’t have a problem finding someone to help you with your repair.

If you need to get something replaced, we encourage you to start looking for a glass repair service as soon as possible. To find services, go on Google and search for something like, “Glass repair service near me.”

Anyone that lives in or near Las Vegas can contact us today to learn more about our glass repair services!

Cutrateglass, Windows

When to Replace Windows: 5 Signs It’s Time for Window Replacement

9Sep2020

Besides serving a functional purpose, windows are also an aesthetic highlight for most homes. They are also among the most prominent features of your home. That’s why if your windows look worn out, the entire house looks old and dingy.

However, windows don’t have to look worn out and old for them to be in bad condition. Windows with aluminum frames could last you well over twenty years without looking the slightest bit old. So it’s a bit difficult to tell when to replace windows.

There’s no fixed period after which you should replace your windows. That’s because of the variety of window frame materials and types of glass for different homes. The conditions of the region and how well you take care of your windows also determine their longevity.

So how do you tell whether your windows are due for replacement? Keep reading as we highlight a few telltale signs that tell you it’s time to get some new windows for your house.

1. Worn Out Frames and Leaking Windows

The most obvious sign it’s time to get new windows is when your frames look tired and worn out. Most homeowners can’t stand old-looking frames and will replace them ASAP. This is the best move because ignoring it doesn’t make it look newer but only worsens the situation.

Wooden frames are the most prone to wear and tear. You knew what you were getting into when you signed up for wooden frames. Wood quickly decays when exposed to moisture, and everything goes downhill from there.

If you don’t replace your wooden frames early enough, they might become a safety hazard. They may be too weak to hold up the panes, and the panes might come crashing down. Hopefully, they don’t crash down on you and the family.

What comes next after deteriorated frames is leaking windows. When your frame starts to decay, your windows start to leak. Don’t be surprised if you come home to a huge puddle under your window if it rains.

If puddles start to form beneath your window every time it rains, you don’t even need an article to tell you it’s time for window replacement.

2. Windows Are Harder to Open and Close

Walk around the house and try opening and closing each window. Do they open and close smoothly, or does it feel like you’re prying them open and banging them shut? If it’s the latter, then maybe it’s time to look for new windows.

Opening and closing windows should require minimum effort. If it takes a bit of energy to open or close them, then they’ve outlived their lifespan. If they have been that way since the beginning, then you had the wrong people install your windows.

3. The Windows Have Visible Signs of Damage

If your windows are warped, cloudy, or broken, then it’s high time to get some new ones. However, you don’t need to replace a window for minor damages. Some damages don’t merit window replacement; a simple repair will do for simple exercises like weatherstripping.

For most people, if the windows still work, then there’s no need to replace or even repair them. However, even if the windows work, the problem will only get worse if you don’t act fast. If your windows show visible signs of damage, then its best you replace them as soon as you can.

You can explore the various types of replacement windows, then find one that suits your fancy. The damaged windows are probably an eyesore anyway.

4. Your Energy Bills Are Skyrocketing

There could be several reasons why your energy bills keep getting higher and higher. One of the most common reasons for high energy bills is faulty windows. Before you call your HVAC guy, first confirm whether the problem is with the windows.

There’s a simple way to know whether your windows are the root of the problem. When it’s cold, stand next to your windows. If the window feels noticeably colder than the rest of the house, then it might need replacing.

Next, touch the windowpane, and if it’s very cold, then the window is the problem. It means that heat from your AC cools as soon as it comes near your windows.

You can also use an incense stick to know whether the windows have a problem. Move the incense stick close to the window, starting with the corners before getting to the middle of the pane.

If you notice any flickering of the flame or smoke, then that’s probably smoke billowing through the windows. If the situation is too bad, you’ll see a stream of light passing through the window. In either case, that’s an obvious sign that you need to replace the windows.

5. You’re Doing a Home Makeover

A home makeover with the wrong windows can make the entire exercise look off. As mentioned earlier, windows are one of the most prominent features of your home. Doing an entire home makeover without getting the windows is like doing zero work.

A home makeover gives you the perfect opportunity to explore new window styles. For instance, you can switch from single pane to double pane windows. Alternatively, you can liaise with your interior designer to find out which windows work best for you.

Do You Know When to Replace Windows?

If you’re like most people, you’re somewhat reluctant about replacing your windows. Now that you know when to replace windows, you should take action before the situation completely worsens. It’s okay to replace only one window, or you can have every window in your house replaced.

Make sure you get the right people for your window replacement or you’ll regret it. For professional, world-class window replacement, contact us today, and we’ll see to it.

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