Glass & Window Blog

Practical guides, project tips, and honest advice from the Colfax Glass team to help you make informed decisions about your home.

Latest

Recent Articles

Window ReplacementFeb 24, 202614 min

The Complete Window Replacement Guide for Sierra Foothills Homeowners (2026)

Sierra Foothills homes face one of the toughest climates in California for windows, with temperatures swinging 50 degrees or more between summer days and winter nights. This guide covers everything you need to know about window replacement in Colfax, Auburn, Grass Valley, and the surrounding foothill communities. From choosing the right glass and frame material to understanding permit requirements and real project costs, John at Colfax Glass shares what he has learned from 25 years working in the foothills.

Read article

Window ReplacementFeb 24, 202610 min

How Much Does Window Replacement Cost in California? (2026 Local Prices)

Window replacement in California runs $400 to $1,400 per window installed depending on type, glass package, and where you live. This guide breaks down real 2026 pricing for Sierra Foothills homeowners in Colfax, Auburn, Grass Valley, and the Northern California coast, with cost tables, hidden fees to watch for, and what Colfax Glass customers actually pay.

Read article

Window ReplacementFeb 24, 20268 min

Do You Need a Permit to Replace Windows in California?

In most California jurisdictions, a straight like-for-like window replacement does not require a permit. But enlarging an opening, adding a new window, or working in a historic district changes the equation. This guide covers exactly when a permit is required, what it costs in the Sierra Foothills, and what Colfax Glass does to handle the permit process for you.

Read article

Window ReplacementFeb 24, 20269 min

7 Warning Signs Your Windows Need to Be Replaced (Not Just Repaired)

Most windows last 20 to 25 years, but Sierra Foothills homes take more punishment than average. Here are the 7 signs John at Colfax Glass sees most often that mean it is time to replace, not repair.

Read article

What We Cover

Topics We Cover

Real questions homeowners ask us — answered with 25+ years of field experience in the Sierra Foothills and along the Oregon-California coast.

Window Replacement

How to know when it's time, what to expect during installation, and how to choose the right windows for your climate.

Single-pane vs. double-pane upgrades
Retrofit vs. full-frame replacement
Energy savings after window replacement
How to choose Low-E glass coatings

Doors & Entryways

Front door curb appeal, sliding door maintenance, and choosing the right door system for your home.

Entry door materials compared
Sliding glass door maintenance
French door vs. sliding door
Weather sealing for exterior doors

Shower Glass

Frameless vs. framed enclosures, cleaning tips, and what to know before your bathroom remodel.

Frameless shower door buying guide
Glass thickness options explained
How to keep shower glass clean
Shower enclosure layout planning

Skylights & Natural Light

Skylight types, placement strategies, and how to bring more natural light into your home.

Fixed vs. venting skylights
Skylight placement for maximum light
Preventing skylight leaks
VELUX product options

Energy Efficiency

How glass and window choices affect your energy bills, comfort, and home value.

How Low-E glass reduces energy costs
Argon vs. krypton gas fill
Window U-factor and SHGC explained
Climate-specific window selection

Maintenance & Repairs

Practical care tips to extend the life of your windows, doors, and glass installations.

How to fix a foggy double-pane window
Window seal failure warning signs
Seasonal window maintenance checklist
When to repair vs. replace

Have a Question About Glass or Windows?

If there's a topic you'd like us to cover, let us know. In the meantime, browse our service pages for detailed information on each type of project we handle.

Browse Services Ask a Question

Ready to Start Your Project?

Skip the research and talk to our team directly for expert guidance.

Get a Free Quote Call 530-545-1385