The Cut Rate Glass Blog

Shower

7 Factors to Consider Before Installing a Glass Shower in Your Home

16May2022

Did you know that bathroom remodels are one of the most common projects to date?

One of the most important decisions for designing a dream home is choosing the best shower. Thanks to its minimal and contemporary design, a glass shower is one of the most popular and trendy shower options for homeowners.

Are you considering renovating your bathroom? Take a look at these considerations for glass showers!

Cost

While planning your bathroom remodel, you should make a budget. In this budget, you should include the prices of the items you need, the cost of installation, and any compromises you are willing to make in case the budget runs out.

Glass showers look great, but they are one of the more expensive shower options. These showers come with a glass door or walls, which can add to the cost of the shower.

The price of this product is determined by its quality, which can vary.

In some cases, homeowners purchase a cheap shower that cracks after a few uses. Instead, you can opt for a shower with a glass door instead of walls to save money. The door only takes up a small amount of space, and it is easier to clean.

Design

A glass shower design can be as simple as a rectangle. The glass is usually on one side and left plain in these showers. A more creative design can consist of glass all around the shower, creating an elegant and modern look for your bathroom.

You should not choose a design that will take up too much space in your bathroom. Glass showers are ideal for small bathrooms and lack a lot of storage.

It can also make the space look bigger, as it does not crowd the area.

Durability

Glass showers are much more durable than their counterparts. Tiled showers will run into issues such as mold, mildew, and moisture that can cause damage to the shower and the bathroom.

With a glass shower, you do not have to worry about this. Glass is easy to clean, which means the shower will be less susceptible to mold or mildew.

Glass showers will last you for about 20-30 years.

Maintenance

The great thing about glass showers is that they require little maintenance.

After each shower, you can wipe down the glass with a damp cloth or clean off the water with a squeegee. This is all you need to do to maintain the shower, other than the occasional cleaning as you would any other shower.

If you have hard water that contains a lot of calcium, you might need to do the occasional deep clean with vinegar to clear off any buildup.

However, our cleaning experts suggest that a magic eraser can do wonders in cleaning off any soap scum and calcium.

Functionality

A glass shower may look great, but they are also functional. They are easy to clean, are protected from mold and mildew, and allow steam to escape, making it easier to breathe.

However, you should consider the placement of the door to optimize the functionality of the shower. If you install the door on the wrong side, it might get in the way of some other essential items in your bathroom.

If you don’t have a lot of space, you should consider getting a sliding glass door. You’ll maintain the beautiful sleek look without compromising its functionality.

One thing to point out with sliding doors is that it might be a little harder to get into the nooks and crannies. However, you’ll notice that it is a piece of cake with the proper tools.

Space

We’ve already mentioned that glass showers are great in small bathrooms a few times. But why?

Well, glass showers can make small bathrooms look bigger. This is thanks to the unobstructed view of the shower.

You can really see how much room you have to work within the shower with glass showers.

You can also keep the clutter outside of the shower and place the items in a cabinet or under the sink.

Style

The biggest reason why homeowners choose glass shower installation is for the style.

Glass showers provide a high-end look to any bathroom, not just the contemporary look. If you want a more traditional look, you can also opt for a framed glass shower.

When you have a framed glass shower, you can add a border or a pattern to enhance the look.

Glass showers are very versatile in terms of the styles and designs that they can incorporate. For example, you can have a simple shower with a single glass door or have two doors that both swing in and out.

You can also incorporate glass walls and doors with a tub. This is a great option for homeowners that want both the look and the functionality of a dual-purpose shower and tub.

You can also consider having a corner glass shower. This is also a great option for smaller bathrooms, as it takes up less space.

Installing a Glass Shower: Get It Right

The benefits of installing a glass shower are numerous. It doesn’t need to be difficult as long as you have the proper experience and know exactly what you’re doing.

However, if you are looking for professional services, take a look at our selection. At Cut Rate Glass, we offer various products and services that will satisfy your needs.

Please take a look at our services today!

Windows

What Are the Best Types of Windows to Have In Las Vegas?

4May2022

Whether you’re doing home improvements or looking for windows, you might be surprised to learn that you can recoup 73.1% of your investment into a new window. That’s a lot of savings!

But to get your true money’s worth, you might want to know what types of windows you should get. If you’re in the Las Vegas area, this guide is for you.

Double-Hung Windows

A double-hung window has two slashes. Meaning, two halves that you can move up or down. It allows for excellent ventilation during the spring or fall months.

Double-hung windows are perfect in rooms where a cool breeze is welcomed, such as living rooms or family rooms.

Single-Hung Windows

These windows are similar to double-hung windows, but only allow their bottom half to be lifted. The top half remains fixed to the upper part of the frame.

Single-hung windows are excellent at having good seals, meaning less air leakage into your home. If you’re concerned about good air quality and a cheaper AC bill, a single-hung window might be the choice for you.

Sliding Windows

A sliding window provides uncompromised, clear views of the outside. They are good in areas with wide walls and low ceilings.

Sliding windows have the added advantage of being easy to move since they move left or right. They make for a good choice in harder-to-reach areas, such as above kitchen sinks or countertops.

Casement Windows

Casement windows swing inwards to open. If you want a window that can open completely, you might consider a casement window. Casement windows also provide a high level of security, since they open with a crank and are self-locking.

Picture Windows

For homes with wide, expansive views, a picture window makes for an excellent choice. Picture windows are much larger than regular windows, and having one in your living room is akin to having a panorama of the outside.

Where ever your picture window is placed, you can be sure that it’ll make your rooms feel expansive.

Bay Windows

Bay windows provide an extension to a home’s exterior. They allow for exteriors to be more detailed and for living areas to seem larger. Excellent lighting and detail allow for bay windows to act as a focal point for any home.

Custom Windows

For unique sizes, shapes, and designs, custom windows are another option for homeowners. With the right installer, window installation will be easy.

Current Window Trends

Right now, you might consider giving your Las Vegas windows a rustic feel. Reclaimed woods for shutters, barn doors to close off your windows, and pastels to lighten up your room. When it comes to your windows though, it’s important to think of utility first.

Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows are low maintenance, cost-effective and energy-efficient. Three things that are great for windows.

Due to vinyl’s material properties, vinyl windows are resistant to warping and fading. They won’t need repainting or resurfacing during the window’s surface life. If you want to keep your windows up to shape for many years, choosing a vinyl window allows you to do that.

Multi-pane Windows

Multi-pane windows refer to windows with multiple layers of glass. These multiple layers act as insulation, separating ambient air from indoor air, with less of a medium for heat to travel through.

These windows most commonly come in their two-pane variety. But it’s possible to buy three-pane windows, which add a layer of insulation to the window.

Las Vegas Considerations

Purchasing windows in the Las Vegas area comes with more consideration than in other areas of the country. With Las Vegas summers as brutal as they are, you’ll need all the protection you can get. When you’re indoors, the right window will protect you.

Energy Savings

According to the Department of Energy, a bad window can contribute 25-35% of residential heating and cooling costs.

That’s a lot of money that you could be saving. It’s also a lot of cool air being lost to the wrong choice of windows. If your window isn’t up to the right quality for defending against the heat, you’re missing out on the benefits of a good window.

Windows that excel in giving you the best savings are referred to as “low e” windows. In other words, low-emissivity windows. Low emissivity allows for the glass to transfer substantially less heat than other windows.

If your window is exposed to the sun throughout the day, you should look into how a new window might bring you to cost savings. In a city like Las Vegas, having energy-efficient windows is almost guaranteed to give you cost savings.

UV Protection

With the sun as prevalent as it is in Las Vegas, it’s a good idea to consider your skin health. Even when it comes to indoor settings.

While most glass windows will protect you from most UV rays, they still allow for low-power UV rays to enter your home. These UV rays contribute to skin wrinkles and certain forms of skin cancer.

These UV rays may not be an immediate issue to most people, but if you’re photosensitive or concerned about skin health, you might be interested in UV protection for windows.

Retrofitting Windows

Want to make these savings but are still hesitant on new windows? That’s alright. There’s always the option of retrofitting your current windows.

Retrofitting a window is a good choice in older homes, where the glass might not be up to modern standards. If you notice air leaks or issues with the inner and outer glass of a window, you may already need a retrofitted window.

To retrofit a window, installers will replace the window glass but retain the window frame. This process involves no demolition, reconstruction, or damage to your interior.

Whether you have an old window or a faulty window, you can rely on a retrofit to give you the benefits of a new window. Most of the time, at a lesser price. It won’t give you the same quality as a brand new window, but it’s worth a consideration.

Find the Right Types of Windows for You

Las Vegas window replacement and installation don’t have to be hard. But with so many types of windows and options to decide on, it can get confusing.

If you are in Las Vegas, Nevada, and want to consider all your options, contact us at Cut-Rate Glass. We can also help you with Las Vegas glass repair.

Shower

Upgrading Your Bathroom? Get to Know These Types of Shower Enclosures

4Mar2022

In 2020, Americans spent an average of $13,000 on home projects – 50% more than they did in previous years.

Almost 30% of those renovations were bathroom upgrades! Are you looking at that moldy shower curtain and wondering whether it’s time to upgrade your bathroom, too?

The answer is yes. There are many types of shower shapes and designs to suit different styles and needs.

Learn more about the types of shower enclosures in this must-read guide.

Quadrant Shower Door

A quadrant shower door is a popular enclosure style with a partially round frontage. This style is perfect for smaller bathrooms as it takes up limited space.

Sometimes bathrooms have an unusual layout which becomes a challenge during a home renovation project. The quadrant shower enclosure is the ideal solution. It can fit in tight corners without compromising on style or comfort.

Square Shower Enclosure

The square shower enclosure offers a stylish and modern look without taking up too much space.

Because the shape is a perfect square, you have more options for doors and frames. For example, a matte black door frame would complement an all-white bathroom.

A square shower enclosure can be installed against any flat wall. Don’t worry if you have a smaller space. This type of shower will fit snug beside the tub, too.

Rectangle Shower Door

If you want more space, then go with a rectangle shower enclosure. Instead of a curved glass front, your shower will have two or three walls of glass in a complete rectangular design.

There are many benefits to choosing a rectangular shower enclosure. They include extra shower space, no size restrictions, and a complete choice of doors and frames.

For a more relaxing shower experience, the rectangular shower enclosure is for you.

Tile and Glass Shower Enclosure

When it comes to creating a luxurious bathroom, don’t be afraid to mix and match materials. Instead of a full glass enclosure, opt for a mixture of tile and glass.

For example, try having three marbled tiled walls and a single glass screen to create a warm neutral backdrop.

Or combine deep blue-colored wall tiles in a double walk-in shower with a partial glass shower screen covering each shower head.

Hinged Shower Door

Homeowners often struggle to decide on what shower door to install. Hinged glass shower doors are a popular choice for their ability to swing outwards to open.

This creates a large opening and safe entry for parents, seniors, or people with mobility issues. They’re also easier to clean and maintain and provide a minimalist aesthetic to any style of bathroom.

A hinged shower door is a perfect choice if you have the space.

Sliding Shower Enclosure

If your bathroom doesn’t have space for a hinged shower door, you might like to choose one that slides. Sliding doors save space and create the illusion of more space.

They’re also easy to clean and maintain. Better yet, they can prevent water from spilling onto your tiled floor.

Sliding doors are customizable to any shape and size and affordable for homeowners sticking to a tight budget.

Walk-in Shower

As the name suggests, a walk-in shower allows you to walk straight in and avoid the awkward process of stepping into the tub.

Walk-in showers are a popular design choice for master ensuites as they have a touch of luxury and create a spacious sanctuary.

With a walk-in shower, you are flexible in picking the dimensions of your enclosure, unlike a shower/tub combo which comes in a standard size.

Tub Enclosure

But fear not, the tub enclosure isn’t going anyway. People with smaller bathrooms often combine the shower and tub to save on space.

For people with children, having a bathtub is essential. As they grow up, they can choose to have a bath or a shower.

One of the many downsides to having a tub/shower combo is using a shower curtain. You don’t have to worry about mildew and mold again with a glass tub enclosure.

Dual Entrance Shower Enclosure

Couples rejoice! The dual entrance shower enclosure is ideal for contemporary homes with spacious bathrooms.

Dual entrance enclosures offer a spa-like experience with a real luxurious feel. Better yet, if you’re remodeling to sell your home, you’re in luck. Dual entrance enclosures can add value to your home.

In terms of practicality, dual shower heads allow two people to get ready simultaneously. And better yet, two shower heads will make cleaning twice as easy.

Frameless Shower Enclosure

More people have been choosing to invest in frameless shower enclosures in recent years. That’s because there are many benefits to a frameless shower.

They allow natural and artificial light to flow into the space and improve visibility. Frameless shower doors can make a space feel larger. Plus, there is less chance of mold build-up.

And last but not least, they’re easier to clean and come in any size or shape.

Different Types of Shower Enclosures Explained

The type of shower enclosure you choose should fit your space, match your style, and has all the functions you need.

When it comes to your new glass shower enclosure, it pays to choose the right company for the job.

Cut-Rate Glass is your Las Vegas glass shower enclosure specialist. We only use the highest glass quality to bring the wow factor to your bathroom.

With so many types of shower enclosures available, we can help you decide which enclosure is suitable for your space. We also offer free in-home estimates and installation services.

Request a free quote today! Let’s help you get the bathroom of your dreams!

Cutrateglass, Mirror

5 Essential Tips to Consider When Buying Wall Mirrors for Your Home Gym

15Feb2022

What if a bit of self-reflection was the real key to making gains?

No, we’re not talking about quietly meditating over your place in the universe. To make the most out of each workout, you need to check your reflection in some home gym mirrors.

However, not every mirror works well for your fitness journey. How can you pick the best mirrors for your home workout needs? Please keep reading to discover our comprehensive guide!

Why Use Home Gym Mirrors?

We’ve put together a solid guide for factors you should consider when buying mirrors for home gyms. First, we need to answer the obvious question: Why does your home gym need a mirror?

The short answer is that it helps you keep track of your progress and maintain motivation throughout your workouts. The longer answer is that mirrors are essential for any workout routine.

The most basic reason is that a mirror helps you check your form. If you are using an incorrect form when working out, you may not get the results you were hoping for. Worst case, you may get seriously injured!

This also applies to anyone you are working out with. If your partner, child, or friend is working out in your home gym, a large mirror can help you check that their form is correct.

And, of course, mirrors are one of the best ways to motivate yourself each day. When you can see your fitness progress from day to day and week to week, it provides a powerful motivation to work out that much harder!

Now that you know a bit more about why you need wall mirrors for home gyms let’s explore some of the factors you should consider before making your purchase.

Size Matters

People like to joke about whether “size matters” or not. But when it comes to mirrors for your home gym, bigger is better!

Think about some of the smaller mirrors in your home. Isn’t it frustrating when you have to bend down or otherwise adjust your body to see your reflection?

That won’t do for your home workouts. Because your fitness routine affects your entire body, you need large gym mirrors that let you see your whole body.

That is why good home gym mirrors are sometimes referred to as “wall mirrors.” When you have that much reflective space, you can check the progress of your entire fitness routine with a single glance!

Aesthetic Appeal

Some people don’t consider the aesthetic appeal of their home gym. While this may not be a consideration if you are working out in the garage, it’s a significant consideration when you have converted one of your interior rooms into a gym.

At that point, you should consider how a large mirror affects the room’s overall look. For example, putting a wall mirror on two sides of the room may feel like overkill at first. But doing so can make the whole room look much larger than it is!

Aesthetic consideration is another reason you may want to skip those cheap vanity mirrors that you can find in department stores. They may save you a few bucks, but things like a gaudy mirror frame may end up making the whole room look cheap and ugly.

Check the Lighting

Do you know how some mirrors seem naturally better for selfies than others? That has nothing to do with the glass and everything to do with the lighting in the room.

For fitness purposes, you need to get a light amount that is “just right.” For example, if there is too little light in the room, you won’t be able to get a good look at your body. But if the mirror reflects any direct light, the same thing happens: you can’t get a good look at your reflection.

If possible, you may want to set up a wall mirror in a room with lots of natural lighting. That natural light will make your body look great, and that light reflecting off of the mirror will make areas like darkened corners seem that much less gloomy.

Consider Your Budget

Earlier, we mentioned that you shouldn’t settle for cheap department store vanity mirrors. However, you don’t have to break the bank to get great wall mirrors for home gyms.

First, you should seek out the best glass specialists in your area. These vendors will offer the selection and variety that you deserve.

With a variety of mirrors comes an array of prices. You’ll be able to find the perfect mirror for any budget. Just think: you can take those savings and invest in additional home gym equipment!

Safety vs. Accuracy

One rookie mistake that many people make is not considering the best material for home gym mirrors. That’s right: glass isn’t your only option!

Acrylic, for example, is a safer material. You don’t really have to worry about acrylic glass shattering and injuring you. At the same time, acrylic doesn’t offer the best reflection (more on this in a minute).

Glass offers the best possible reflection, but there is always the potential that it may break. To maximize safety and accuracy, you should invest in tempered-glass mirrors because they are far less likely to break.

Thicker Is Better

You know that a bigger mirror is a better mirror. But did you know that thicker mirrors are better as well?

Thicker mirrors are going to be more stable and less prone to breaking. On top of that, thicker mirrors are less likely to flex.

Flexing often happens with thin, acrylic mirrors. When that happens, you get a frustratingly blurry reflection. That kind of defeats the purpose of having home mirrors in your gym!

For your home gym mirrors, try to get the glass with a thickness between 3 and 3.5 millimeters.

Your Fitness Journey: The Next Steps

Now you know what to consider when buying home gym mirrors. But do you know who can help you find the mirrors you need?

We specialize in all things glass, including custom wall mirrors. To see what we can do for you and your home gym, come request a quote today!

Cutrateglass, Retrofit, Windows

How Is a Retrofit Window Different From a New Construction Window?

9Feb2022

Getting new windows has an 85% return on investment.

It’s one of the top ten ways you can improve your home for both value and comfort. If you want to lower your monthly energy bills and update the look of your home, windows are a great place to start.

You may have already heard the terms new construction window and retrofit window. These are the two common ways new windows get installed in your home. The similarities end there, and if you have wondered what makes them different, read on.

New Construction Windows

Windows classified as new construction windows are replacement windows that licensed contractors can install. What sets new construction windows apart is the amount of work that goes into them. A contractor will build the entire frame, siding, trim, and glass from scratch. This means they can make sure everything fits together perfectly and looks exactly how it should.

New construction windows completely replace the old windows. Even the frames of your old windows get removed. The outside siding often cuts back, and the new window frame is installed. If you have a homemade from brick, stone, or stucco, then remember that they may have to remove some to put in new windows.

Retrofit Windows

Retrofitting a window will involve replacing the glass. The window frame inside the stucco itself stays then a new glass, and energy-efficient window is installed. The process is known as retrofitting because you take a new window and place it into an older frame. The process can be completed without stucco, drywall, or paint damage.

In some instances, the frame may have to be repaired and can cause difficulty if it is not plumbed to the wall. This process is an excellent choice for those who don’t wish to remove the window frames or who don’t need to.

Advantages of a New Construction Window

By their very definition, these windows are brand new. If you have substantial damage to your window frames that would require expensive repair, this may be a good option for you. Areas with high moisture, mold, and rot can sometimes benefit from new frames.

Another advantage of new construction windows, they are uniform and will fit flush to the house. This is because the window frames are secured to the home’s frame. Work can begin once the space is prepared and the old material is removed.

Advantages of a Retrofit Window

A retrofit window is quick and easy to install. If no substantial repairs are needed to the window frame, this kind of replacement can save you money. The process of retrofitting windows does save the window frame. If you live in an older home, this can be key to retaining the value of your home.

With a window retrofit, you won’t have to repair any damage to the outside of your home. There will be no change to the placement and size of the window. Any original materials will not have to be reconditioned or replaced either.

Disadvantages of New Construction Windows

If you have new construction windows installed, your home will change. The contractor will have to remove a section of the exterior wall of the house. This is because the new frame will have to be placed in the wall.

Once this is done, you will have to repair or replace the siding or other building material that was disturbed during the installation. This can add to the cost of what is already an expensive proposition. Repairing and replacing siding can cost between $600 to $1,200.

New construction windows can also change the look of your home. They will look modern, and if that doesn’t fit your home’s exterior, it may be jarring. This is more pronounced in older homes, but it can also be evident if a house has a more rustic theme.

Disadvantages to Retrofit Windows

A retrofit window will have one major disadvantage. It relies on the older window frame for the process to go fast. If the window frame is not flush or has settled, the installation can be more difficult. Even with these difficulties, it’s unlikely to cost as much as a new construction window.

If you wish to change the shape and size of your windows, a retrofit would not be appropriate for you. In that case, you’d need to have the entire frame replaced. This isn’t what happens in a retrofit operation, so only those who want to retain their original frames should consider it.

When to Choose Retrofit vs. New Construction Windows

Whichever way you choose to go, the process will improve your home’s value and look. While the frame may be the same, a new retrofit window will look nice. If you switch from single-pane to double-pane windows, you can expect to save money on energy with both.

Having windows replaced and repaired will benefit your home either way. The core of the question comes down to what you need and what you want. Both options are viable, but a retrofit would be appropriate if you don’t want to spend a lot and like your current window configuration.

If you want to change the look of your house entirely and are comfortable spending the money to do so, a new construction window might be better for you. You should also consider the area you live in, and if you are in an HOA, you might have to consider the bylaws.

Retrofit/Replacement Window vs. New Construction Window

Any form of updating to your windows is a positive step to take. The value of a retrofit window is in the cost-saving and time-saving aspects. New construction windows cost more and take more time to install.

Both forms of window replacement will supply the same benefits once work has been completed. Remember that you won’t be able to recoup your improvement investment on windows alone fully.

If you are in Las Vegas, Nevada, and want to consider all your options, contact us at Cut-Rate Glass. We can help get you the windows you want and make your dream a reality.

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