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  • Window Removal & Installation Best Practices

    Window Removal & Installation Best Practices

    When it comes to home improvements that help with temperature regulation, few know how beneficial a window remodel can be. It seals off gaps, replaces inferior or worn-down materials and improves the energy efficiency of the entire home.

    Whether you hire someone or plan on attempting it yourself, it helps to know the right and wrong ways to do window removals and installs . Let’s go over a few best practices.

    Plan Ahead

    There are quite a few factors involved with window removal, which is why so many use a professional instead of attempting a DIY replacement. If you do go the self-sufficient route, remember to plan ahead around the things you typically forget. Take notes again so that you can improve again and then repeat the process.

    Choose Windows Wisely

    One area that homeowners tend to forget about with window removal and installation is where they live. Texas is notoriously hot, yes, but the state has its share of temperature fluctuations as well, so it’s important to choose materials that can handle those times when it’s hot outside and cold inside.

    Think About Energy Efficiency

    It’s tempting to get consumed by the details of window removal, like design and fit, when more important areas are impacted. One of those areas is energy efficiency, which impacts cost of living, comfort levels and resale value. If there’s an important area you’re concerned about, just make sure you compare it to bigger-picture items like energy efficiency.

    Properly Dispose of Waste

    It’s becoming a lost art these days but disposing of waste properly after a window removal and/or installation goes a long way. Even if it doesn’t mean a lot to the individual customer (and it will), it will let others in the industry know you care about the details. This is especially important if you had to sign an agreement to adhere to local regulations.

    Look Forward

    Speaking of, remembering the details is a must in this industry. From weatherproofing and sealing to trim, finish and maintenance/care prep, there are a variety of details to think about even after the bulk of the job is done. Once all forms of dirt and debris are removed, you want to treat the area with Texas’ heat and your home’s unique comfort, style and energy efficiency considerations you desire.

    If you’re planning some sort of window replacement —whether a remodel or installation—contact us at Expo Home Improvement today.

  • Why Wait for Your New Shower?

    Why Wait for Your New Shower?

    The bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms of your home, but there’s no question that it is one of the most important! So, shouldn’t it be a functional, beautiful, and comfortable space that you actually enjoy spending time in? When it comes to the functionality of the bathroom, showers are an essential feature for many families. From speeding up your morning bathing routine to saving room in a tight bathroom space, showers are an ideal option for a stylish and accessible bath.

    Unfortunately, many homeowners are left dealing with outdated, grimy, or broken-down showers that simply aren’t living up to expectations, and planning out a bathroom remodel can be a stressful (and expensive!) process. At Expo Home Improvement, we know that you don’t have time for having your bathroom out of commission for weeks on end. After all, daily life is hectic enough as is without the mess, hassle, and costs of a bathroom remodel adding to your stress!

    That’s why we are proud to offer stunning, fully customizable new shower systems throughout the region—at a fraction of the time and cost of traditional remodeling. With our expert services, you’ll be getting a new shower that offers:

    • Lightning-Fast installation : How would you like to have a new shower in just one or two days? That’s what our skilled team can offer with our innovative, quick installation services that minimize demolition and get your bathroom back up and running fast.
    • Exceptional Quality : Just because we offer fast installation doesn’t mean that you will be sacrificing on quality! All of our new shower systems are crafted from American-made acrylic.
    • Low-Maintenance Ease : Scrubbing a grimy, old shower is a thankless task, but you can say goodbye to hours spent scouring mildew and soap scum! Unique Silver Shield technology protects your shower from mold and mildew, giving you an easy-to-clean, fresh space.

     

    Quick installation isn’t the only reason that homeowners throughout the area choose Expo Home Improvement ! We also offer an industry-leading selection of custom products and full-service support to give you the new shower systems of your dreams, whether you need a barrier-free, accessible solution or want a one-of-a-kind, spa-like shower. Just give us a call today to learn more, or fill out our online form now, and we can get you started with a free, no-obligation estimate!

  • Why To Consider a Bath-Shower Combo

    Why To Consider a Bath-Shower Combo

    Why do fast-food menus include combination meals? To save people time and money by giving them a combination of things they already want at a reduced price. Combos are great in several areas of our lives, from meals to homes.

    Take bath-shower combinations, for example. From maximizing your bathroom remodeling budget to saving precious space, a bath-shower combo can be a great option for homeowners. Installing a tub-shower combo can also be easier and less time consuming to install versus installing a new shower and new bath separately.

    Not convinced? Here are four reasons why to consider a bath-shower combo.

    Reason #1: Save Space

    New shower? New bath? If you want both of these, it’s going to require a significant amount of space in the bathroom. Unless you get a bath-shower combo, that is. With a bath-shower combo, you’ll get the benefits of a new shower and a new bath, but only taking up the space of a single unit. The space that your existing shower or bath was occupying is now free for a cabinet or other bathroom feature.

    Reason #2: Maximize Budget

    It’s often more affordable to get a bath-shower combo than it would be to get a new shower and new bath individually. If you’re doing an entire bathroom remodel, choosing a bath-shower combo will help your budget go further and you can choose an additional feature you didn’t think you could afford or find space for on your blueprints.

    Reason #3: You Need a Replacement

    The third reason for why to consider a bath-shower combo is that you already have a bath-shower combo and you still want to have a bath. This ties back to space, but also plumbing and the general scope and budget for the remodeling you have planned. If you already have a bath-shower combo… then this may be the main reason why you should consider a bath-shower combo: a replacement vs. bathroom overhaul.

    Reason #4: Maintain Flexibility

    Oftentimes, homeowners will feel like they have to choose either a new bath or new shower, whether due to budgetary or space concerns. But this can negatively impact the person in the household who, say, enjoys showers when you installed a new bath only. Or vice-versa. With a bath-shower combo, you maintain the flexibility of having both options available.

    The reasons of why to consider a bath-shower combo aren’t limited to this list, but we figure these four reasons are the most convincing. If you’re interested in a bathroom remodeling project like a bath-shower combo install, contact us today for a free quote.

  • What Uses More Water: a Bath or a Shower?

    What Uses More Water: a Bath or a Shower?

    In today’s modern world of energy conservation and awareness it is important to keep an eye on the resources you use daily, not only for the planet, but for your wallet as well. A common question that many homeowners ask is how much water do they use and what activities in their home contribute to water waste and energy loss? An everyday shower or bath can flush gallons of clean water down the drain and knowing which method of self-care uses less resources can help. Keep reading to find out what uses more water, a shower or a bath, and how to cut back on any energy wasting habits.

    Why a Shower?

    Many of us love a hot shower at the end of a long day and do our best thinking under the shower head. The good news for shower lovers is that, on average, a ten-minute shower uses less water thana fully filled bathtub. The average bathtub holds up to thirty-six gallons of water or more, while a ten-minute shower usually uses about twenty-five gallons or less, depending on the duration. If you’re looking for a more energy efficient way to clean the day off, a shower may be the right way to go for your home and your wallet.

    Shower Gallons Per Minute

    If you’re wondering how long your shower should be to make the most of your water bill, you’re not alone. On average, each shower uses approximately two gallons per minute, coming out to a little less than twenty-two gallons for the entire process. How long is the average shower? The consensus is about eight minutes. So, if you take a roughly ten-minute shower, you’re using less water than a standing bath, and you’ll see yourself start to save money every month. If you want to cut your water bill down even further, you can try shaving your shower time down to five minutes, using half of the total amount of water at about eleven gallons.

    Bath vs Shower Water Usage

    So, how many gallons in a bathtub get filled with water when you take a bath? A typical bathtub takes upwards of forty-two gallons of water to fill to the brim, already pushing it well over the threshold of a ten-minute shower. Some baths even require as much as seventy gallons or more to get the job done. Of course, your bath using more water than your shower does heavily depend on the duration of the showers you take. If you take a forty-five-minute shower you’ll be using almost fifty gallons of water, which may come out to more than your forty-two-gallon bath. At the end of the day, your water usage depends on how large your tub is versus how long your showers last. Weighing these two facts may help you determine which one is best for your needs. Also, consider that bath water gets colder over time, and you may end up filling your tub with additional hot water to figure out how to keep your bathtub water hot.

    How to Take Shorter Showers

    The shorter the shower, the more money you’ll save. But have no fear; if you’re one of those types of people who want to save water by taking showers, but enjoy showers that last more than ten minutes, there are many tips and tricks you can use to cut your shower time in half. An enjoyable trick that you may find useful is creating a “shower playlist” of music that times out to exactly ten minutes. Set your phone aside and let the music play as you wash, and once the playlist is done, make sure to shut the water off. Another good idea that can help you save time and water is switching to a water efficient shower head or learning to take navy showers. Learn more about how to reduce your daily hot water use on the Energy.gov site.

    Of course, the most important aspect of enjoying your time in your bath or shower is having the right one installed in your home. A shower with all the proper energy conserving features, paired with an aesthetic and style that you love, will make your time in it more enjoyable and energy efficient. If you’re looking to research more about the various styles of showers or tubs that you can have installed in your home, Expo Home Improvement offers a variety of services at your disposal, including one-day installations. Sift through the various options and figure out what style shower or bath is right for you, then put your energy savings tactics into practice.

  • Picking Materials for a Bathroom Remodel

    Picking Materials for a Bathroom Remodel

    Remodeling a bathroom in your home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. On one hand, you’ll be getting a brand-new bathroom, designed to meet all of your needs. But on the other hand, it can be a costly and time-consuming project that will take a lot of planning to get right. One of the most important steps when pursuing a bathroom remodel is choosing which materials you want to use for different areas of your bathroom. You’ll want to consider aspects like appearance, durability, and price. Some of the most common bathroom items that you’ll need to consider include:

    Countertops

    Countertops are one of the first things you notice when entering a bathroom, and they play a large role in the overall aesthetic. Some of the most popular countertop materials are:

    • Granite – An extremely popular countertop material, granite provides a high-end look for homeowners who are looking to add elegance to their home. Granite countertops are available in a variety of patterns and offer superior durability. However, they are one of the more costly countertop options.
    • Marble – Providing a beautiful and graceful look, marble has long been associated with wealth. However, it has become more affordable due to the improvements in production. Marble is resistant to chipping and denting and complements almost any style, making it an excellent choice for homeowners.
    • Laminate – A very budget-friendly material, laminate is a great option for homeowners looking to make the most of their money. It is available in a number of realistic stonelike and wood-like finishes, so you can get the look of a high-end material without the price.

     

    Flooring

    While looks are important when it comes to flooring, you’ll also want floors that can stand up to water, since they will likely get wet very often. Some common bathroom flooring materials include:

    • Ceramic tile – Ceramic tile is waterproof, attractive, and doesn’t cost too much, making it a great flooring option. This tile can be customized in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to create a design that is just right for you.
    • Vinyl – For rooms that will endure a lot of water exposure, such as kids’ bathrooms and laundry rooms, this is a great option. It is very durable, cost effective, and available in a seemingly endless amount of style options.
    • Engineered wood – This type of material delivers the beauty of solid wood combined with the ability to stand up to moisture. It can be a little costly, but it’s a great option for homeowners who can afford it.

     

    Bathing Area

    Choosing the right material for your bathing area is also important because you’ll want a tub or shower that looks attractive and can stand the test of time. Some popular options include:

    • Acrylic – Acrylic is durable and easy to clean, making it one of the most popular materials for tubs and showers. It is affordable, but doesn’t sacrifice beauty for the price, and can be customized in a number of options to meet your aesthetic needs.
    • Fiberglass – Fiberglass is another cost-effective option and offers many of the same benefits as acrylic. However, it is not as durable as acrylic and tends to fade, crack, and scratch over time.
    • Cast iron – This is an ideal option for homeowners who want a tub that offers a timeless look. It is very durable and has excellent heat retention. However, it is very heavy and can be difficult to install, and may require reinforcement of the floor in some situations.

     

    For a Beautiful New Bathtub or Shower – Turn to the Experts at Expo Home Improvement

    When you’re looking to have a bathtub installed in your home, consider working with the professionals at Expo Home Improvement. We install tubs and showers that are constructed from an extremely durable acrylic material that is resistant to fading, denting, and chipping. This will allow you to have peace of mind that your investment will last for the foreseeable future.

    To learn more about the bathtub and shower options we have available for homeowners throughout the Central Texas area, contact Expo Home Improvement today.

  • Replacement Window Price Comparisons in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

    Replacement Window Price Comparisons in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

    We Knew We’d Been Coming Out on Top in the Price War for Years…

    BUT WE WERE SHOCKED WHEN WE SAW QUOTES FROM TWO OTHER WELL-KNOWN WINDOW COMPANIES IN THE DALLAS-FORT WORTH AREA

    We knew that our formula for selling high-quality windows at a low price was a winner. After all, Expo Home Improvement has grown EVERY year since we started in 2006 because people love value pricing on high-quality windows.

    But after we conducted a blind price quote comparison, even we were surprised by just how much better our prices are. Our two biggest competitors WERE ALMOST DOUBLE our prices in the comparison. If you are getting several windows replaced, this would mean THOUSANDS of DOLLARS WASTED for any customer choosing these well-known companies.

    Another competitor came closer, but even they were almost 10% higher than us. If you are replacing multiple windows, this will add up to hundreds – sometimes thousands – of dollars.

    Energy Efficient Windows Save You Money!

    Just to be clear, our windows stack up “”pound for pound”” in quality, in energy efficiency, and professional installation against these competitor windows. The only “competitors” we can’t beat are those selling lesser quality windows along with a poor record of service.

    We also hear stories all the time from customers who shop at the Big Box stores with national reputations. They tell us they just assumed that these chains will have the best prices because of the volume they do. WRONG. We consistently hear prices that are significantly higher than Expo Home Improvement prices in “apples to apples” comparisons.

    Expo Home Improvement Can Deliver Both Low Prices & Quality and Can Prove It To You with a Free Quote. We’ve got Energy Efficient Windows Backed by Outstanding Warranties. We’re an A+ Rated Better Business Bureau Company and Well-Established Local Business with Proven Installers. Usually, you expect to pay a premium for this kind of track record. But as our price comparison shows, we give you the BEST of BOTH WORLDS.

  • How to Replace a Tub with a Walk-in Shower

    How to Replace a Tub with a Walk-in Shower

    ​​​​Replacing an existing bathtub with a walk-in shower has become a popular upgrade for many homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio areas. This is mainly because homeowners appreciate walk-in showers for their convenience and beauty, and often no one in the home uses the bathtub anyway. If you’re considering taking on this task yourself, here are the general steps you will need to follow:

    • Remove the existing tub and wall surround – The first thing you’ll need to do is remove your existing tub, as well as any tile and backerboards so that your installation area is down to the original skeleton.
    • Upgrade plumbing – While your plumbing is exposed, have it inspected by a licensed, insured plumber and ask them to make any necessary upgrades. If your tub didn’t have a showerhead installed, you’ll need to ask your plumber to add one.
    • Replace the framing and subfloor — Inspect the wall studs and subfloor for mildew, mold, and rot and replace or repair as needed.
    • Install a vapor barrier and cement backerboard — Staple your vaper barrier (at least 4-mm thick) to the studs. The vapor barrier must cover the entire walls and floor of your shower area. Then install cement backerboard on the walls over the vapor barrier. Use concrete backerboard screws to secure the backerboard to the studs. Do not use drywall to build your shower walls.
    • Apply seam tape and a waterproof membrane — Apply cement backerboard seam tape to the places where the edges of the cement backerboard meet. Coat the tape with thinset mortar. After the thinset is dry, use a paintbrush or roller to apply two coats of waterproof membrane.
    • Choose and install your shower pan – You will have to choose what type of shower pan you want to use and then install it into the floor of the existing bathing space. For a walk-in shower, you’ll want a shower pan with the lowest lip possible to minimize tripping hazards.
    • Install the tile or other wall surround – Now you have to install the tile or wall surround to cover up the walls and to give your new walk-in shower the style that you want.

     

    Let the Experts at Expo Home Improvement Replace Your Tub with a Walk-in Shower

    Since our founding in 2006, Expo Home Improvement has helped countless homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Central Texas areas replace their tubs with walk-in showers. Our installation experts have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right, and we only use beautiful, high-quality products. If you’re ready to replace your old and outdated tub with the walk-in shower of your dreams, contact Expo Home Improvement today.

  • How to Paint Exterior Doors

    How to Paint Exterior Doors

    Because your exterior door will often be one of the first things that people notice when they look at your house, it’s important to keep it in good shape. If you have an exterior door that is old and fading, painting it is a great way to bring it back to life. Those who aren’t quite sure how to paint a front door can follow these simple steps:

    • Remove the door and set it down on a clean, flat surface that’s covered with newspaper, a drop cloth, or some other kind of protection.
    • Take off the doorknob and any other hardware such as locks and door knockers, and then place painter’s tape around the edges of any glass on the door so you won’t get paint on it.
    • Scrub the surface of the door with a wet sponge to clean it off, let it dry, and then lightly sand the door to remove any remaining dirt or rough spots.
    • Apply a primer to the door, let it dry, and then apply a coat of paint. Let the paint dry and then flip the door over to repeat all the steps over again.
    • Hang the door back into its place and reattach the hardware.

    For Beautiful and Secure Exterior Doors, Turn to the Experts at Expo Home Improvement

    Since 2006, Expo Home Improvement has been providing homeowners in the Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio areas with the highest-quality exterior doors on the market. The exterior doors we install are available in a variety of size, style, and color options, allowing you to customize your new door to your exact preferences. Plus, all our exterior doors are ENERGY STAR certified, so you can be sure that regardless of which type of door we install for you, it will be equipped with several energy-efficient features that could possibly contribute to lower energy bills.

    To learn more about the exterior doors that Expo Home Improvement installs for homeowners throughout Central Texas, contact us today. We look forward to working with you to give you a gorgeous new exterior door.

  • 6 Features the Best Walk-In Baths Have in Common

    6 Features the Best Walk-In Baths Have in Common

    At first glance, it may be difficult to tell which home improvement options are the best to prioritize. Should you replace your windows? Is a new front door more important? What about insulation? This even applies to bathroom remodeling options like bathtubs.

    Speaking of, walk-in baths may be more important than you might think, as it benefits both your safety and comfort. If you do end up considering a walk-in tub, here are several features the best options have in common.

    1. Low Thresholds

    A low step-in threshold is a must with a walk-in bath, as it allows for easy entry and exit. It also minimizes the risk of tripping or falling. The best walk-in baths have a threshold of just a few inches high and some are even available at floor level, which makes for a seamless transition into the bathing area.

    2. Non-Slip Flooring

    Another important safety feature is a non-slip surface, specifically in the flooring and seat areas. You want traction in a walk-in bath to provide stability while bathing, which is inherently more difficult because of moisture. Non-slip floors and seats ensure a safe bathing experience for individuals of all ages.

    3. Built-In Grab Bars

    The top walk-in bathtub options these days will have strategically placed grab bars for added safety and support. These are essential for certain people, as they help with balance while entering, exiting or maneuvering inside the bath. Grab bars don’t have to compromise the aesthetics of the bathtub, however, and the best walk-in baths are ergonomically designed to do just that.

    4. Hydrotherapy / Jets

    Bathtubs with jets are a sought-after home improvement in general, but did you know that you can get a walk-in tub with jets as well? Hydrotherapy features are luxurious and provide a soothing massage effect, easing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. Jets also add bubbles to enhance your bathing routine and make it feel similar to a hot tub.

    5. Quick-Drain Technology

     

    Traditional baths can take a while to drain, but the best walk-in tubs are designed with quick-drain technology. This is especially important for walk-in baths because you usually have to wait for the water to drain before exiting the bath. Quick-drain technology is a must for convenience purposes alone.

    6. Customizable Options

    Everyone has unique needs and preferences, so having options with features that you can customize is an added benefit. The best walk-in baths will let you have choices when it comes to add-ons like handheld showerheads, aromatherapy, finishes, styles and more.

    If you’re looking for the best walk-in baths in Texas (and the best walk-in bath installer), look no further than Expo Home Improvement. We’d be happy to go over your bathroom remodeling ideas and help you decide which walk-in bath features are right for you.

  • Should you be Leary of Inexpensive Window Replacement?

    Should you be Leary of Inexpensive Window Replacement?

    Should you be leery of cheap replacement windows?

    Everyone loves a good deal, especially when it comes to home improvement. With so many options for cheap replacement windows, it’s hard to know a truly great deal when you see one. When you’re making this kind of investment in your home, it’s important to weigh three factors into your decision-making process.

    Energy Efficiency

    A big benefit of new windows is energy efficiency savings. High-quality windows can drive down your monthly energy bill. But you won’t always see big savings if you choose a window poorly.

    Some cheap replacement windows lack features such as gas-filled double panes that reduce heat transfer into your home. Filled windows use an inert gas like argon in-between panes to keep heat out of your home in the summer. Cheap window alternatives may also lack low-E glazing, which makes the panes of glass close to the temperature of interior air. Without these two components, homeowners choosing a lower-cost window don’t reap the cost-saving benefits of energy-efficient windows. The amount saved by purchasing cheap windows is completely lost when a homeowner’s heating/cooling bill arrives.

    Investing in these kinds of features will save money in the long haul and make your family much more comfortable throughout the year.

    Return on Investment

    Low-cost windows are only one bottom line factor. When you purchase new windows, you are making an investment in your home. Consider that when you purchase your windows, you’ll also need a qualified team to install them and a strong warranty to ensure that your investment doesn’t go to waste.

    Often, cheap windows aren’t backed by a double limited lifetime warranty like Expo Home Improvement’s. That means over time if you experience any issues like pitting, cracking, peeling, or chipping, your windows may not be covered. Also, many companies that offer cheap windows simply do not install them properly, nor do they guarantee their installation work.

    Because we want you to be our customer for life, our highly-trained professionals are the most experienced in the industry. Their work is also covered by an installation warranty, which is rare and hard to find in our industry.

    Replacement Window Life Span

    If you’re attracted to a window because of its low price, consider the life span. Many inexpensive windows will only last 5-7 years and are warrantied for that short amount of time. How long do you plan to stay in your home?

    These types of windows are often made with lower-grade vinyl that may contain filler ingredients that lose color over time or are less resistant to decay. You’ll also be limited on options and features that add curb appeal.

    All of this means that you can expect to purchase windows again during the time you own your home. If you’re planning to live long-term in your home, choose a window that will last a lifetime. You’ll not only avoid additional expense but save time by making the best decision the first time.

    We’re here to help.

    Trying to sort out the best way to replace your windows and reap the long-term benefits? We’re always finding new ways to add value for our customers through financing options and innovative products. Contact us for a free quote and we’ll walk you through the benefits of choosing a high-quality window from Expo Home Improvement.