Five Mile Glass, Inc. Blog

As Spokane’s chilly winters approach, preparing your windows can save money, keep your home cozy, and protect against the region's unpredictable weather. With snowfalls averaging over 40 inches a year, making sure your windows are winter-ready is an investment in comfort and efficiency. When you need glass repair or replacement in Spokane, WA, give the experts at Five Mile Glass a call. Inspect and Seal Start with a thorough inspection. Look for cracks, gaps, or damaged caulking that might let drafts sneak in. Even tiny gaps can lead to significant heat loss. Use weather-resistant caulking or foam sealants to fill the voids. Self-adhesive weatherstripping provides an excellent solution for moving parts like sashes. Upgrade Window Treatments Thermal curtains or insulated blinds can block cold air while trapping heat inside. Consider layering curtains for added insulation; it’s a simple yet effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Add Storm Windows If your home has single-pane windows, installing storm windows can provide an extra layer of insulation. They not only reduce heat loss but also shield against ice buildup, which is a common concern during Spokane’s freezing nights. Embrace Window Film An often-overlooked option is applying heat-shrinking window film. This transparent layer minimizes heat transfer while maintaining natural light, making it a favorite among homeowners. Regular Maintenance Matters Clean your windows inside and out before the snow hits. Dirt and grime can reduce their effectiveness in absorbing sunlight during the shorter winter days. Check locks and hinges for smooth operation, ensuring a tight seal against the cold. Window Installation Specialists in Spokane Properly prepared windows don’t just fend off winter chills; they also lower heating costs and enhance your home’s value. In a city like Spokane, where temperatures frequently dip below freezing, taking these proactive steps ensures a warm, inviting home no matter how harsh the season. When you need glass repair, new windows, or any other type of glass installation for your home or business, be sure to get in touch with an experienced specialist. For glass installation in Spokane, contact the experts at Five Mile Glass at  509-213-0612  . We offer a variety of styles to suit your needs. Give Five Mile Glass a call today to ask for a glass installation estimate in Spokane!

Choosing the right glass doors for your business can make a powerful first impression on clients and customers. With various options available, it’s important to understand the benefits of each type and select the best fit for your business needs. Here’s a guide to help you choose the most suitable glass doors. If you’re interested in new glass doors for your business in Spokane, Washington, give the experts at Five Mile Glass a call first. Frameless Glass Doors for a Modern Appeal Frameless glass doors, often seen in upscale retail and office settings, provide a sleek, modern look that creates an open and inviting atmosphere. These doors are ideal for businesses highlighting interior designs or showcasing products through clear, uninterrupted views. Made of tempered or laminated glass, frameless doors are durable and shatter-resistant. However, they may not offer as much insulation as framed doors, so they’re best suited for indoor or temperature-controlled environments. Tempered Glass for Safety and Durability Tempered glass doors are designed with safety in mind. They’re heat-treated to increase strength and shatter into small, blunt pieces if broken, reducing injury risks. These doors are ideal for high-traffic businesses like retail stores, medical offices, and restaurants, where durability and safety are priorities. They come in framed and frameless options, offering flexibility for both interior and exterior applications. Sliding Glass Doors for Space Efficiency If space is limited, sliding glass doors are a practical solution. They save room by moving along a track instead of swinging open, making them ideal for tight entryways or indoor spaces that require separation without losing visibility. Sliding glass doors are often used in retail spaces, cafes, and offices. Insulated Glass Doors for Energy Efficiency For businesses looking to improve energy efficiency, insulated glass doors are a great option. These doors feature double or triple-pane glass with an insulating gas layer between the panes, reducing heat transfer and keeping indoor temperatures stable. Insulated glass doors are beneficial for restaurants, office buildings, and storefronts, as they lower energy costs and create a comfortable environment for customers and employees. Frosted or Tinted Glass for Privacy For businesses like law firms, financial services, or healthcare providers, privacy is essential. Frosted or tinted glass doors can provide a professional look while maintaining confidentiality. Frosted glass offers a diffused view that allows light to pass through but obscures details, while tinted glass reduces glare and sun exposure. Both options can be combined with tempered or insulated glass for added durability and energy efficiency. Storefront Doors in Spokane Five Mile Glass sells and installs glass storefront doors for all types of businesses, such as restaurants, medical offices, theaters, retail shops, and commercial centers. We install aluminum pivot doors, multi-slide doors, bi-folding doors, butt-hinged doors, center-hung doors, and even automatic doors. You can rely on our team to meet the specs of your new build or commercial remodel. Give us a call at  509-213-0612  to learn more.

Installing Low-E (low-emissivity) windows in your Spokane home can be a wise decision, offering a range of benefits that enhance comfort, energy efficiency, and cost savings. Spokane’s climate, with cold winters and warm summers, makes Low-E windows particularly useful by helping regulate indoor temperatures year-round. When it’s time to update your windows in Spokane, Washington, give the experts at Five Mile Glass a call first. How do Low-E Windows Work? Low-E windows have a special coating that reflects infrared and ultraviolet light. This means in the winter, the windows allow sunlight to enter while preventing heat from escaping, keeping your home warmer without overworking your heating system. In the summer, they reflect heat away, reducing the strain on air conditioning units. This energy efficiency can result in noticeable savings on utility bills for a city like Spokane, where temperature fluctuations are common. Block UV Rays Low-E windows reduce harmful UV rays, which can cause fading in furniture, carpets, and even flooring. By blocking up to 90 percent of UV light, these windows help preserve the interior of your home, protecting your investments while also providing a more comfortable living environment with less glare. Reduce Energy Consumption Another reason to consider Low-E windows for your home is their environmental impact. By reducing energy consumption, these windows lower your home’s carbon footprint, aligning with growing concerns about sustainability. Over time, the energy savings can offset the initial cost of installation, making them a cost-effective long-term investment. Boost Your Home’s Resale Value Homebuyers increasingly seek energy-efficient features, and Low-E windows can be a strong selling point, especially in a region like Spokane, where winters can be harsh. Glass Installation Specialists in Spokane When you need glass repair, new windows, or any other type of glass installation for your home or business, be sure to get in touch with an experienced specialist. For glass installation in Spokane, contact the experts at Five Mile Glass at  509-213-0612  . With more than 50 years of experience, we offer a variety of styles to suit your needs. Give Five Mile Glass a call today to ask for a glass installation estimate in Spokane!

Selecting the perfect glass for your windows is more than just a matter of aesthetics; it’s about balancing beauty, functionality, and energy efficiency. Different window styles require specific types of glass to enhance their performance and appearance. Below, we discuss how to choose the right glass for various window designs. When you need window repair or replacement in Spokane, Washington, give the experts at Five Mile Glass a call first. Casement Windows Casement windows, hinged at the sides, open outward like doors. They provide excellent ventilation and unobstructed views, making clear, low-emissivity (low-E) glass ideal. Low-E glass minimizes heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, all while maintaining a crystal-clear view. Double-Hung Windows Double-hung windows, which slide up and down, are a classic choice for many homes. For these windows, consider double-pane insulated glass with a low-E coating. This combination reduces energy loss while allowing easy operation, making it perfect for all-season comfort. Bay and Bow Windows Bay and bow windows extend outward, creating a panoramic view. To enhance their appeal, use tempered glass for safety and low-E glass to control temperature fluctuations. The right glass will not only protect against UV rays but also maintain the indoor climate, ensuring comfort year-round. Slider Windows Slider windows glide horizontally and are often used in spaces where vertical space is limited. For these, consider laminated glass, which adds an extra layer of security and noise reduction. This type of glass is particularly useful in urban settings or for homes near busy streets. Picture Windows Picture windows are large, fixed panes that don’t open, designed to frame outdoor views. Since they don’t need to open, consider triple-pane glass for maximum insulation. If you live in a region with extreme temperatures, adding a low-E coating can further enhance energy efficiency while still letting in plenty of natural light. Glass Installation Specialists in Spokane When you need glass repair, new windows, or any other type of glass installation for your home or business, be sure to get in touch with an experienced specialist. For glass installation in Spokane, contact the experts at Five Mile Glass at 509-213-0612 . With more than 50 years of experience, we offer a variety of styles to suit your needs. Give Five Mile Glass a call today to ask for a glass installation estimate in Spokane!