Adkins & Sons, established 1979

Resources
and Blog

Plain answers on replacement windows, doors and siding, written from the jobs we have done across Southeast Michigan since 1979. Read what you need, then ask us the rest at the free in-home estimate.

Replacement Windows

Replacement Windows
Articles

How long they last, what moves the price, what the materials are actually like to live with, and what the permit and insurance questions come down to.

Adkins & Sons installer on a ladder setting a replacement window in a brick wall

Replacement Windows

The Right Time of Year to Replace Windows in Michigan

When to replace windows in Michigan: what winter, spring, summer and fall each mean on installation day, how lead time works, and how to decide.

September 23, 2026 · 7 min read

Upper and lower double-hung windows on a brick cape in Southgate

Replacement Windows

Double-Hung vs. Casement Windows: How to Choose

How double-hung and casement windows open, seal, clean and vent, where each one fits in a house, and how to choose between the two styles.

September 23, 2026 · 7 min read

Adkins & Sons installer finishing the interior sill of a new replacement window

Replacement Windows

How to Choose a Window Replacement Company

What to ask before you hire a window replacement company: who installs the windows, license and insurance, certification, the quote, and the warranty.

September 23, 2026 · 7 min read

Tall black-framed windows on the upper story of a Livonia home

Replacement Windows

Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows for Michigan Homes

Vinyl or fiberglass replacement windows for a Michigan home: how each frame handles freeze and thaw, what upkeep each needs, and how to choose.

September 23, 2026 · 7 min read

Full front elevation with the windows replaced on a brick two-story in Livonia

Replacement Windows

Vinyl vs. Wood Windows: Pros and Cons

Vinyl or wood replacement windows? Compare the interior look, the upkeep, Michigan weather, how each holds heat, and which houses suit which.

September 23, 2026 · 8 min read

Brick two-story with new black-framed windows, Livonia

Replacement Windows

Do New Windows Increase Home Value?

Yes, new windows increase home value, and in Michigan’s competitive real estate market the impact can be more significant than you might expect.

May 21, 2026 · 11 min read

Gable end with a new arched window on an Ann Arbor brick home

Replacement Windows

Pella vs. Andersen: Which Window Brand Is Better?

Choosing between Pella and Andersen windows is one of the biggest decisions southeastern Michigan homeowners face when planning a window project.

April 30, 2026 · 9 min read

Chimney-side double-hung windows on a brick cape in Southgate

Replacement Windows

How Long Do Replacement Windows Last?

Replacement windows are one of the bigger investments you’ll make in your southeastern Michigan home.

April 30, 2026 · 8 min read

Picture window with casement flankers in a sitting room, Canton

Replacement Windows

Why Are Replacement Windows So Expensive?

Understand what drives replacement window costs, from product quality and installation method to what's included in the quote.

April 11, 2026 · 9 min read

Double-hung replacement window set into brick, Southgate

Replacement Windows

Full-Frame vs. Pocket Window Replacement

Learn the difference between full frame and pocket window installation, when each method is the right call, and why installation quality matters most.

April 10, 2026 · 9 min read

White double-hung replacement window in brick, Southgate

Replacement Windows

How to Replace Windows in a Brick Home

Replacing windows in a brick home can seem daunting due to the risk of damaging the brickwork.

May 5, 2025 · 9 min read

Stucco two-story with a stone chimney and new windows, Canton

Replacement Windows

Does Home Insurance Cover Window Replacement?

Does a home insurance policy cover window replacement? It depends. Most policies cover damage caused by events like storms or vandalism.

May 5, 2025 · 10 min read

Adkins & Sons crew carrying a new window unit to the opening

Replacement Windows

How to Replace Basement Windows

If you’re looking to learn how to replace basement windows, this guide is for you.

May 5, 2025 · 10 min read

Brick and stucco two-story with new windows and garage, Livonia

Replacement Windows

Do You Need a Permit to Replace Windows?

Learn whether you need a permit to replace your windows, including state-specific rules and expert insights.

March 28, 2025 · 6 min read

Newly installed bay window on a brick home

Replacement Windows

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Window?

Discover the time required to replace a window and what factors influence the process. Get the facts and plan your project effectively.

January 3, 2025 · 7 min read

Two new double-hung windows beside the chimney on a Southgate brick cape

Replacement Windows

Should I Replace 20-Year-Old Windows?

Considering replacing your old windows? Explore key factors to determine if it's time for an upgrade.

December 26, 2024 · 10 min read

New double-hung window beside the chimney on a Southgate brick home

Replacement Windows

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Windows

Is it time to replace your home’s windows? How do you know? Click here for some tips on recognizing the signs that your home needs new windows.

January 24, 2024 · 2 min read

Doors

Doors
Articles

Entry, patio and storm doors: how they are measured, hung and maintained, and the choices that matter before you order.

White storm door with a glass panel on a Southgate brick home

Doors

Storm Doors vs. Screen Doors: What Is the Difference?

A storm door and a screen door are not the same door. What each one does, full-view and ventilating styles, and how to choose for your entry.

September 23, 2026 · 7 min read

Side entry door and double-hung window on a brick cape in Southgate

Doors

Should I Replace the Door Frame or Just the Door?

Find out when you can replace just the door slab and when a full frame replacement is the smarter investment.

April 12, 2026 · 9 min read

Brown entry door with a glass insert on a Southgate brick home

Doors

Steel vs. Fiberglass Entry Doors

Compare steel and fiberglass entry doors on durability, security, energy efficiency, and maintenance.

April 12, 2026 · 9 min read

New storm door and double-hung window on a brick home in Southgate

Doors

What Is a Storm Door?

A storm door is an outer door that protects your main door from bad weather and improves insulation.

May 5, 2025 · 8 min read

Doors

Can You Paint a Storm Door?

Discover if and how you can paint a storm door the right way with our expert tips for a smooth, lasting finish.

March 21, 2025 · 6 min read

New patio door set into a deck-side wall during installation

Doors

How to Measure a Sliding Glass Patio Door

Follow our easy step-by-step guide on how to measure a sliding glass patio door accurately for a perfect fit.

February 11, 2025 · 6 min read

Adkins & Sons installer on the company ladder at a window opening

Doors

How to Remove a Sliding Patio Door

Learn how to remove your sliding patio door efficiently with our straightforward guide. Follow these easy steps to simplify the process.

January 17, 2025 · 7 min read

Picture window, double-hung, and storm door on a vinyl-sided cape in Taylor

Doors

Why Are Storm Doors Installed Opposite of Entry Doors?

Find out why storm doors are installed opposite entry doors at Adkins and Sons Windows. A quick read on function and design.

December 26, 2024 · 8 min read

Kitchen casement windows looking onto the trees, Canton

Doors

Seasonal Tips for Maintaining Your Windows and Doors

Learn seasonal maintenance tips for windows and doors with Adkins & Sons Windows. Keep your home efficient and secure all year long.

February 8, 2024 · 3 min read

Siding

Siding
Articles

Vinyl siding from the inspection to the last panel, including the questions worth asking any contractor who bids the job.

Freshly hung vinyl siding on a detached garage

Siding

Signs You Need New Siding

The outside and inside signs your siding is finished, from cracks and warping to peeling paint indoors, and when a repair is still the better call.

September 23, 2026 · 7 min read

Siding

How to Measure for Siding

Measuring for siding is crucial for a successful installation.

May 5, 2025 · 6 min read

Full front of a vinyl-sided cape with new windows in Taylor

Siding

Can You Put Siding Over Brick?

Yes, you can put siding over brick. This process offers a way to refresh your home’s look without taking down the brick.

May 5, 2025 · 9 min read

Two-story home after a full exterior job

Siding

Questions to Ask a Siding Contractor Before You Hire

Ask the right questions before hiring a siding contractor. Check out our top 10 essential questions for peace of mind.

March 14, 2025 · 10 min read

White double-hung window and shutters in fresh vinyl siding, Taylor

Siding

How to Replace a Window Without Removing the Siding

Learn how to replace a window without removing siding. Save time and effort with these expert-approved techniques.

February 18, 2025 · 5 min read

Siding

How to Remove Vinyl Siding

Remove vinyl siding like a pro with these top tips for a smooth, damage-free process every homeowner can follow.

February 4, 2025 · 8 min read

Siding

How to Tell If Siding Is Discontinued

Learn how to identify discontinued siding and what it means for your home. Get practical tips and guidance to make informed decisions.

January 10, 2025 · 6 min read

Siding

How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?

Discover how long vinyl siding lasts and the key factors affecting its lifespan.

December 26, 2024 · 8 min read

Areas We Serve

We Serve All of
Southeast Michigan

One family company out of Southgate, working across Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, and Washtenaw counties since 1979. Find your city below for local details.

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