Frequently Asked Questions

Hodges offers a wide variety of windows and doors from manufacturers including Marvin, Ideal, Jeld-Wen, ProVia, Clark Hall, and IWP. Window styles include awning, bay & bow, casement, double hung, garden, picture, sliding/gliding, and specialty options. Door options include exterior, patio, luxury, historic, and commercial styles.

Most installations take one to two days, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Yes, someone must be present at the start to allow the installers access and at the end to answer any questions and learn how to operate your new windows or doors. Before your installation, Hodges will provide a preparation checklist. You'll want to remove window treatments, clear furniture from pathways, and take down wall hangings near the windows.

Yes. Hodges carries windows that can significantly reduce noise transmission. Soundproof replacement windows use multiple layers of glass with laminated surfaces and special coatings that block and absorb sound waves while minimizing vibrations. Window inserts, an additional pane added over your existing window, are a more budget-friendly option and work by trapping air between the layers to create a sound buffer. Both solutions can reduce noise by 50% or more. Hodges also recommends sealing any gaps and replacing worn weatherstripping around frames, as cracks and worn seals are the most common source of noise infiltration, regardless of the window quality.

Bay windows are a popular offering at Hodges, and for the right home, they deliver real value. They create additional interior space, flood rooms with natural light from multiple angles, and add strong curb appeal, a meaningful advantage in competitive Northern Virginia real estate markets where buyers form opinions about a home within seconds. They work particularly well in living rooms and master bedrooms. As with any premium window style, the quality of the product and the installation both directly impact long-term performance and energy efficiency.

An insert replacement swaps out only the window unit itself, leaving your existing interior and exterior trim in place. It's faster, less disruptive, and generally less expensive. A total renovation goes further; the trim is removed and replaced along with the window. A total renovation is the better choice when existing trim is damaged, rotted, or if you want a completely fresh look. Hodges can walk you through which option makes sense for your home during a free consultation.

Yes. Hodges can modify existing openings to create the look you want for your home. Whether you're looking to add a new entry point, create a patio door from a window opening, or change the configuration of your exterior, their team can work with you to make it happen.

Yes. Modern keyless locks are considered highly secure and in many ways more secure than traditional keyed locks. Because they lack an exposed keyhole, they eliminate vulnerabilities like lock picking and key bumping. Reputable manufacturers use military-grade encryption (such as AES 128-bit) to protect against cyberattacks, making unauthorized digital access nearly impossible. They also eliminate the risk of key duplication. In a power outage, keyless locks continue to function on internal batteries (typically AA), and most systems warn you in advance when battery levels are low. Options range from keypad locks ($100–$150) to smart locks ($200–$400) to biometric systems. Professional installation is strongly recommended over DIY to ensure proper alignment, Wi-Fi integration, and warranty protection.

Keeping sliding glass doors operating smoothly comes down to regular cleaning, lubrication, and roller inspection. 

• Monthly: vacuum the track to remove loose dirt, then scrub stubborn debris with an old toothbrush or wire brush. Clear the drainage holes with a small pin or wire to prevent water buildup. 
• Every 3–6 months: lubricate the track and rollers with a silicone-based lubricant — never oil-based, which attracts dust. Apply a thin, even layer and slide the door back and forth to distribute it. 
• Annually: inspect rollers for wear, flat spots, or debris. You can adjust roller height using the adjustment screws at the ends of the door panel to keep the door properly aligned. If the door goes off track, clear any debris, inspect for bent tracks, and gently lift the bottom of the door to realign the rollers. For a thorough check of hardware, seals, and frame integrity, Hodges recommends a professional inspection every few years to catch issues before they become costly repairs.