(ARA) - Thinking of remodeling? You are not alone. The majority of money spent by homeowners on home upkeep goes toward improvement projects versus maintenance and repairs.

Homeowners spent an estimated $226.4 billion in 2007 on home improvement projects and repairs, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Home improvements accounted for 75.8 percent of total spending, while another 24.2 percent went into maintenance and repairs.

However, not knowing what to expect during remodeling can be very daunting. Don’t let fear hold you back from needed or desired home improvement projects like upgrading leaky windows or drafty doors. The added energy savings, plus the improved style and comfort of new windows and doors, will help you save money on utility bills, and add to the overall value and look of your home.

To help reduce replacement anxiety, it’s important to select a company with professional installers who are able to do the job efficiently and correctly. Here’s what you should look for:

* Installation should take place in most any weather, since the inside of your home is protected.
* For your safety and security, installation professionals should wear proper identification.
* Your installers should park where it’s convenient for you.
* The installation team leader should share the schedule and answer your questions.
* The installation crew should cover the area with drop cloths to protect your home.
* Cutting of materials should take place outside.
* The installation team leader should give you frequent updates on the progress of your window and/or door replacement.
* Upon completion, the replacement team should clean your new windows and doors, vacuum the work area and haul your old windows and doors away.
* The installation team leader should demonstrate the operation and care of your new windows and doors, review your warranty, give you an owner’s manual and answer final questions.
* Then it’s time to celebrate, enjoy compliments from the neighbors and relax in a quieter, more comfortable home.

When installing Pella doors and windows you will get all of these benefits. “It’s evident that Pella understands and places emphasis on the importance of proper installation and installed our windows properly,” said Prescott Gaylord, Baltimore Green Construction project manager, regarding the non-profit Rebuilding Together project where Pella crews installed new Architect Series windows in the Community Mediation Program’s headquarters.

The time is now
In a recent national survey by Kelton Research, two-thirds of homeowners agree it’s not okay to delay window replacement despite the dread and anxiety of home improvement projects for many people.

And, those who did replace window reported their energy efficiency priorities were met as well as savings, style and comfort. Almost half (49 percent) reported their utility bills actually went down after their last window replacement project. They also found their homes more comfortable (48 percent), more valuable (38 percent) and their new windows aesthetically more pleasing (48 percent).

For more information about how to create a better view in your home and what to expect during a window and door replacement project, call (888) 84-PELLA or visit http://www.pellareplacement.com to request a free Window & Door Replacement guide.

(ARA)