Blog
Welcome to MTB Windows & More blog about our home improvement expertise.
Mt. Tabor Builders for Custom Home and Major Addition Projects
If you need help with building a custom home or adding a major addition, visit our parent company’s website at Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. The professionals at MTB and Mt. Tabor have decades of construction experience in the Tri-state area. That means they understand the best way to build and the needs of local homeowners. Click here to see the Mt. Tabor Portfolio of custom homes and construction projects.
The Perfect Time for Home Improvement Projects
Fall is here and it’s a great time for home improvement projects.
Have you been thinking about a home improvement project? If so, we think this is the perfect time to move on it, because a number of great factors are in place. The first factor is the time of year. Late September and early October can offer some perfect weather in the Tri-state, making for the perfect time to work and upgrade areas of your home. It’s also two months before Thanksgiving and three before Christmas. There’s plenty of time to make a mess and have the house back in order before family arrives.
This time of year is also perfect for projects that will make your home energy-efficient. The cold weather is a ways off, but it is coming. Heating bills are often dreaded in the winter. Electric, oil and gas prices go up and so do utility bills. But many home improvement projects can help cut those bills down, while adding value to your home.
Rising Real Estate Prices Mean Lots of Equity
Everyone has heard about the hot real estate market. The greater Hagerstown, MD market is strong and it is tight, meaning there is high demand and limited inventory. This means that your property value is likely increasing every day right now. This means you probably have plenty of equity. This also means you can probably take some cash out of your investment and re-invest it in upgrades to your home. Some upgrades — like a remodeled bathroom or kitchen — can add more value than they cost. Other upgrades — like replacement windows, exterior doors, heating system, etc… — will save dollars for years to come.
Types of Home Improvement Projects by MTB
MTB Windows and More home improvement experts specialize in replacement windows, replacement exterior doors, roof replacements and more.
The MTB professionals suggest that you take advantage of the cool fall nights to inspect your windows and exterior doors. As the air moves, 
inspect the edges for air leaks. Tissue paper can be used if it is difficult to feel the air.
How old are those gateways to the outside? Do they seal tight when closed? Do your windows and doors feel more like the indoor or outdoor temperature on the hot and cold days of the year? The answers should tell you whether or not you are wasting valuable energy through your windows and doors. You may be losing so much heat and air conditioning that the savings from replacement windows and doors may quickly pay for the upgrade. After a few years, you may need decide what to do with the extra money in your household budget.
High-Quality Replacement Windows and Doors
MTB uses high-quality products, like Andersen Windows and Therma-Tru Entry Doors, because of the superior ratings for efficiency and security. You can read about the quality of the products, but MTB can also boast about the professional installation services. Sometimes, these services are 
taken for granted, especially when shopping for the cheapest price.
The MTB home improvement professionals are trained by the manufacturers to install the products correctly. This ensures the work will be done right and the energy-efficient products will work as intended. The last thing a homeowner wants is to spend good money on good products that don’t work well. Owners want windows that are air tight and doors that seal perfectly when closed. The added security that comes with these products is no small bonus.
Contact Us for Home Improvement
You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here to discuss your replacement windows, doors or other home 
improvement projects. We also replace roofs with the GAF Shingle System.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. is our sister company and can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
We also recommend BlueBox Rentals if you need to rent a dumpster.
This August Heat will Turn Into Cooler Weather
August brings the unofficial close of summer and cooler temperatures will likely be coming to the Tri-state area soon.
Officially, summer is only two-thirds over. Unofficially, students are in school, football is being played and fall plans are being made. The hope is that the summer has been a great one for families and friends. And everyone will keep wearing shorts and flip flops for a few more weeks, but a 
break in the weather is coming. That means cooler evenings and long sleeves and hats. A short time later, that furnace will need to be turned on.
Is your home ready to keep the warm air in and cold air out?
Well, if it isn’t ready, the good news is that it can be. Contact us at MTB Windows and More to schedule a meeting about replacement windows and replacement exterior doors. These are often the biggest culprits for out-of-control utility bills. Many people wait until the cold air is blowing the curtains or hearing the whistling of winter winds. But, if you meet with an MTB representative now, the home improvement work can be completed before the winter coats are out of storage.
While you’re checking your available dates for an MTB Windows and More meeting, enjoy these interesting August facts and trivia.
August Facts & Trivia
The name “August” was given by Roman emperor August, in 8 B.C. Until then, the Romans called the month “Sextilis,” meaning the sixth month of their calendar. August claimed this month his own because most of his victories occurred during this month. Many other versions of the name designate this month as Harvest Month.
August 19th is National Aviation Day, chosen for the birthday of Orville Wright who piloted the first recorded flight of a powered heavier-than-air machine in 1903.
Aug. 2, 1776 – The official signing of the United States Declaration of Independence took place.
Aug. 3, 1936 – Jesse Owens won the 100 meter dash, beating ‘the world’s fastest man Ralph Metcalfe at the Berlin Olympics.
Aug. 4, 70 A.D. – The Second Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans.
For more important August event dates, click here.
MTB uses ONLY High-Quality Building Products
Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are top-quality in the industry, since they help insulate a home so well and add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature (pardon the pun) of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among 
the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. NOTE: Faulty roofs are another place for heat loss, since warm air rises.
MTB Windows and More experts also do other home improvement work. Just ask us. If our technicians can’t do, they will recommend a professional who can.
MTB representatives are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Mt. Tabor Builders Inc. for Custom Homes and Major Building Projects
If you are looking to build a home or complete a major addition, see MTB’s sister company’s site www.mttaborbuilders.com. Mt Tabor does major remodeling and custom building throughout the Tri-State area. This area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.Replacement Windows are a Great Investment!
Replacement windows are one of the best ideas for an older home, especially one with higher utility bills.
Many define an “investment” as something that puts money in the investors pocket. We believe replacement windows are an investment, because lower utility bills will put more money in a homeowners pocket through savings. Now is a good time to consider such an investment with temperatures at their highest in the peak of summer. How much was your June electrical bill? How much was your January heating bill? If those numbers make you a little queasy, keep reading.
The June number is due in part to the cool air leaking out of old windows and hot air seeping through the opening around those old windows. New windows are energy-efficient and can save up to 12 percent on utility bills. The Tri-state area has months of highs in the 80s and 90s and winters with lows in the teens and 20s.
Andersen Windows are a Great Investment
Andersen was the first window manufacturer to be named an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year. What this means is that the product is well-
made with high-quality materials. After all, the design and materials are what separate the cheapest from the better building materials. Plus, Andersen windows come in many styles, to lower bills and upgrade the look of your home.
Quality installation is the second part of saving money with replacement windows. The MTB Windows & More installers are trained by the experts at Andersen Windows. The quality product and quality installation add up to savings that pay for the windows in a few years and eventually add money to the household budget’s bottom line.
To learn more about the product, visit the MTB Windows dedicated website page.
Contact MTB to Discuss Replacement Windows
You can contact us here or call MTB’s Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161 to talk to an company representative. They are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.
If your home upgrade goes beyond “home improvement,” contact MTB’s parent company Mt. Tabor Builders. Mt. Tabor specializes in custom homes, major additions and whole-house renovations. Read this month’s blog on creating an in-law suite.
Celebrating America’s Birthday on July 4th
Happy Independence Day from all of us at MTB Windows & More!
The fireworks are ready to go. Picnics are being planned. And, for the first time in two years, the July 4th activities in Hagerstown are scheduled to proceed with few limitations. We hope your family and friends enjoy this great summer holiday, because there is reason to celebrate.
Even after 244 years of freedom, we still enjoy it, because of the U.S. Constitution and our rights as citizens. You can read this great document at this link. The opening sets the tone from those who drafted it to protect future generations. It reads, We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
We hope this means as much to you as it does to us at MTB home improvement company. We know that our Union isn’t perfect, but we understand that we can work each day to make it a more perfect one.
A More Perfect Way to Upgrade Your Home?
Contact us here if you need a home improvement company to upgrade your home. The MTB pros are THE Tri-state area experts in roofing, windows, doors and siding projects. They use high-quality products like Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingle Systems. And, unlike some other companies, they’re trained by the manufacturers to install the products the right way. Call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
US History Questions and Answers
Celebrating America’s birthday on July 4th is the celebration of our country’s most important date. Those who supported independence, put their lives and wealth on the line. However, there are MANY important dates and events that helped define the United States of America. When and where was the first English settlement? Which battle was the turning point in the American Revolution against the British forces? Where did the American Civil War officially end? For these answers and more, click on this link. Click on this link to another MTB blog to read more specific information about Independence Day.
MTB Home Improvement Testimonials
“I just wanted to take the time to say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W. of Boonsboro, MD
Have a Great Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer season and a return to “normal” gatherings.
The Memorial Day holiday is about remembering. It’s about remembering those who have served our country. This year will also be about remembering what the last 14 months have been like for the world. Memorial Day will be the first holiday of 2021 without most of the pandemic restrictions. That means parades, concerts and family get togethers will soon look like they did in 2019.
We encourage people to move forward, while being wise to still keep others safe. If you’re sick, stay home and get well. Continue to wash your hands frequently AND don’t be shocked if there are some who still want to wear a mask and stand at a distance. Being cautious is never a bad thing when it comes to transmitting germs.
Click on this link for a list of all the Memorial Day weekend events in the greater Hagerstown, MD area.
Memorial Day Facts
Did You Know: Memorial Day is Monday, May 31, 2021. The holiday began after the American Civil War in 1868, when the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans established it. It was started as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of those who died in the war. By the 20th Century, competing Union and Confederate holiday traditions merged and Memorial Day honored all Americans killed while in military service.
From everyone at MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD, we say “thank you” for all who have served to protect and defend our nation.
Why MTB Windows & More for Your Home Improvement Project?
The professionals at MTB are THE replacement window and home improvement experts in the greater Hagerstown, MD area. MTB Windows & More is a full-service home improvement company that specializes in replacement windows, exterior doors, roof installation and more.
MTB’s professional installers use Andersen Windows for all replacement window projects. Replacement exteriors doors and roofs are other specialties of MTB pros. They use Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingles, which add significant value to a home.
From a MTB Client
“I just wanted to take the time to say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W. of Boonsboro, MD
Contact Us About Your Home Improvement Project
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. is our sister company and can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Easter from MTB!
Happy Easter from all of us at MTB Windows & More!
Photo by Pixabay
We are in the midst of the Easter season, with Good Friday and Easter Sunday just days ahead. We hope this time of renewal is a special time for you, your family and your friends. This year, as we emerge from a year-long pandemic, this time will likely be extra special for so many.
For us at MTB, it’s a time to reflect on a special blessing, because of the Easter season. That blessing is knowing and understanding the ultimate sacrifice that God made and the victory of an empty grave.
Did You Know: Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. In the Bible’s New Testament, the resurrection occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died in roughly 30 A.D. The Easter holiday concludes the “Passion of Christ,” a series of events and holidays that begins with Lent—a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and sacrifice—and ends with Holy Week, which includes Holy or Maundy Thursday (the celebration of Jesus’ Last Supper with his 12 Apostles); Good Friday (on which Jesus’ death is observed); and Easter Sunday, also known as Resurrection Sunday.
Interesting Easter Facts: Eggs represent the new life found in Jesus. Eggs are dyed to represent the blood of Christ. And Americans will eat more that 600 million Peeps during the Easter season. Click here to read more Easter facts.
We hope that you will consider the reality of the Easter events as you celebrate with family and friends this coming weekend.
MTB Uses Quality Products for Home Improvement
The professional installers at MTB Windows & More use Andersen Windows for all replacement window projects. Replacement exteriors doors and roofs are other specialties of MTB pros. They use Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingles, which add significant value to a home.
Please contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office during the week at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Mt. Tabor Builders Celebrates 20 Years!
MTB’s parent company is celebrating 20 years of building custom homes in the Tri-state area.
Two decades ago, Willie Eby established a company with the goal of building quality homes and major additions. The foundation of that new company — Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. — was to partner with clients to make the building process a smooth and enjoyable one. Mt. Tabor is the parent company of MTB Windows & More.
“I’m humbled and thankful to look back on how we started and where we are today,” says Willie, who learned the building trade while working with his father. He started Mt. Tabor as a framing company, but quickly grew it into a full-service building company. Not much has changed since those early days, even with the formation and operation of a home improvement company. MTB specializes in window replacements and exterior door upgrades.
“Everyone has challenges, says Willie, referring to meeting with prospective clients about building projects. “With the young families, they’re having or raising children and are often moving up in their careers. The older folks have any number of challenges: from health issues to adult children with needs and just about anything you can think of.”
Many of those meetings led to great building projects. Below are the words from several of Mt. Tabor’s satisfied clients.
Mt. Tabor’s Satisfied Clients Over the Last 20 Years
“We brought a picture with us of a floor plan that we thought might meet our needs, and several pictures of how we would like the house to look. We had a wonderful experience talking about all of the options and felt comfortable with Mt. Tabor from the beginning. Willie worked with us to acquire the perfect piece of property and, along with (Mt. Tabor designer) Royce Eby, helped us design a custom home that both met our needs and reflected our style.
“Everyone we worked with — the bank, appraisers, subcontractors and various suppliers — all commented about the high quality of Mt. Tabor’s work. We really couldn’t be more pleased.” — Steve and Debbie S., Sharpsburg, MD
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“Since the beginning, Willie and the team at Mt. Tabor have been a pleasure to work with and have made our building experience a positive one. That’s not to say everything went as planned. I doubt it ever does. But, the folks at Mt. Tabor had solutions for every possible issue.
In the end, we have an attractive, quality home that should meet our needs for years to come.” – John and Irene, Keedysville, MD
Contact Mt. Tabor Builders or MTB Windows & More
You can call MTB at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here to discuss your replacement windows, doors or replacing a roof with the GAF Shingle System.
Our home builders and improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. can be contacted here. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
February is Cold, so do an Energy Audit Now
The winter temperatures are in full force, so do an energy audit of your home.
It’s cold outside. For those that just weather the winter weather, the good news is that we are nearly half way to spring. More good news is that this is a great time for a “do-it-yourself” energy audit of your home. Don’t worry, it’s not too hard. First of all, ask yourself if it’s cold INSIDE your house? If so, determine where that cold air is coming inside. The best places to check is around windows and exterior doors. The next place to check is the attic. The easiest way to do this, is when there is snow on the roof. After a snow, how long does it take to melt when the temperatures are still 32 degrees or lower? If it melts quickly, warm air from the house is escaping. After all, warm air rises. However, homeowners want that warm air to stop rising at the top floor’s ceiling.
Lastly, be aware of how this year’s energy bills compared to those of previous years. With a shift towards cleaner energy, fossil fuel will become more costly. At least have your furnace cleaned and tuned up. That, combined with replacement windows, replacement doors, some insulation upgrades, etc….should make a huge difference.
Contact Us Now and Enjoy February Celebrations
Have you ordered the flowers and made the dinner reservations? Okay, you do have a few days to get this under control. Even if your not into celebrating Valentine’s Day, there are plenty of things to enjoy (see below) about the second month of year. We’ll make it easy for you with just a few clicks. Click here to connect to MTB’s Clear Spring, MD office or call 301-766-7161 to talk to an MTB representative. We are always available to give a 
quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, and more.
Click below to learn more about the February celebrations.
February Highlights
American Heart Month – Get a physical, eat better and get more exercise.
Black History Month – Take time to learn about African-Americans who helped make the United States a great country.
Women’s History Month – Learn about the women whose accomplishments made them role models for young girls.
Lincoln’s Birthday (the 12th) – Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of United States who led the country through the Civil War.
Valentines Day (the 14th) – Time to celebrate the great American love story.
To learn about more February celebrations, click here.
Why MTB Windows & More For Home Improvements
MTB Windows & More is a home improvement company that specializes in replacement windows, exterior doors, roof installation and more. MTB is a 
subsidiary of Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc., the top-rated custom home building company in Clear Spring. Mt. Tabor, under the leadership of Willie Eby, has been at the forefront of the custom home building industry in Western Maryland since its inception more than 20 years ago.
Mt. Tabor is an award winning builder and that level of quality is what MTB customers can expect. Our home improvement specialists are trained to install the quality products (Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Exterior Doors and GAF Shingle Systems) we use. That means the products are great and they are installed to work at an optimal level.
Words of a Satisfied MTB Client
“I just wanted to take the time to say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W. of Boonsboro, MD
Does “Upgrading Our Home” Top Your Resolutions List?
If you’ve resolved to upgrade your home in 2021, then our home improvement experts want to help with that New Year’s resolution!
Some people love their home. Some of those same people still desire to upgrade their house with home improvements to make it even better. Winter is the time of year when cold winds – and expensive winter utility bills — are on many homeowners’ minds. If you find yourself in this category, know that MTB Windows & More are the Hagerstown, MD-area experts for replacement windows and replacement exterior doors.
Replacing windows and doors can save the average local homeowner between 12 and 23 percent on their heating bills. And those numbers are similar to the savings during the warmest summer days. Remember, extreme temperatures happen winter and between June and September. In addition to such savings, new windows and doors can take the beauty and security of your home to new level.
Why MTB for Replacement Windows and Doors?
Most people think that replacement windows and doors are all about the quality of the product. Quality is very important, which is why we use Andersen Windows and Therma-Tru Exterior Doors. However, that is just a part of it, because the windows and doors don’t install themselves. MTB Windows & More hires and trains home improvement experts, who are trained by the manufacturers to install these quality products exactly the right way. This ensures it will be done right and will last like the makers intended.
We know that home improvement projects are not limited to windows and doors, even in relation to energy savings. That’s why our experts are trained for replacing roofs and siding. Contact us to talk about the biggest home improvement need at your house.
Contact MTB for Home Improvement
You can contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161 to talk to an MTB representative. We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.
If your home upgrade goes beyond “home improvement,” contact our parent company Mt. Tabor Builders. Mt. Tabor specializes in custom homes, major additions and whole-house renovations.
Christmas Season Plans
The Christmas season is here and it’s time for shopping, planning parties and decorating the house.
We love this time of year. The chill in the air and the anticipation of Christmas, along with a new year and new beginnings. Even in the time of 
quarantine and social distancing, we hope you can safely spend time with friends and family. Below are some suggestions for making the the best of the holidays.
Now, if that chilly air is coming in through your old windows and doors, contact us soon about replacement windows and doors. You can contact us here, or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301.766.7161.
Decorating the House & Planning a Christmas Party
Click here to read all about planning the perfect Christmas party. The article includes a checklist of important ideas for your party, including theme 
suggestions. It also includes great party games and activities like gift relays, gingerbread house competitions and karaoke. Just imagine an evening of eggnog and song. It will an event that will be remembered for many years.
But before the guests arrive, the house should look festive. For some, putting us Christmas decorations is a labor of love that results in a proud homeowner lighting up the house and neighborhood. For those who think of it as just labor, here are some suggestions to make it easier this year. It could be as easy as hanging some fresh wreaths or wrapping a bicycle with Christmas lights and parking it by the front door.
This article has some great ideas for easily decorating the interior. These simple ideas will make guests think you have been planning this gathering for months.
Be Safe While Shopping
The use of the word “safe” in 2020 has been more about keeping the COVID-19 virus at arms length, but the Christmas shopping season includes that and more. Yes, wearing masks, washing your hands, using hand sanitizer and fighting the urge to touch your face are still important. In addition to that, make sure you are aware of your surroundings while helping Santa get the house stocked up for Christmas morning. One of the simplest things to stay safe is to keep your package load light. Many packages can make a shopper vulnerable.
Click here to read the top five ways to stay safe while Christmas shopping.
Christmas Quotes
“Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day.” – Helen Steiner Rice
“Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” – Janice Maeditere
“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens
Have a Merry Christmas!
Happy Thanksgiving from the MTB Staff!
We hope you have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
We at MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD truly hope that on Thursday, you stop and reflect on all your blessings, even as we wrap up one of the toughest years ever. It’s easy to reflect on all the negatives of 2020, but if you have been blessed with family, friends, children, faith, a job, a home and/or anything that makes life a little better, take time to reflect on those blessings. Our intention is to do the same, going into the Christmas season with a grateful attitude.
“Thanksgiving is more than turkey and football. It’s a time to get together with family and relax. It is also a time to sit back and thank God for the many blessings, as a family, as a business and citizens of this country. I hope we can all be more thankful in the next year, and not just think about our blessings at Thanksgiving.” — Willie Eby, MTB Windows & More
How to Plan a Thanksgiving Gathering
Photo by cottonbro
Are you hosting a Thanksgiving gathering at your home in 2020? If so, please remember to be safe as it relates to spreading germs. Second, put a solid plan, with a to-do list, together so you can have fewer worries and enjoy the holiday. This article offers a cheat sheet for your Thanksgiving gathering. It covers everything from guests with dietary restrictions to selecting a turkey to serving dessert.
We hope your meal tastes great, your football team wins and you make timeless memories.
The History of Thanksgiving in America
The first Thanksgiving between the Pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians happened in the fall of 1621, about 10 months after the Mayflower landed in Plymouth, MA. Only 44 of the 102 original voyagers were alive due to hardships of the first year. The celebration was for the great harvest, which happened because the Native-American Indians taught them about growing local crops. The Pilgrims were appreciated, because they had helped the Wampanoags fight back a rival tribe that attacked earlier in the year.
Thankful for our Client’s Kind Words
“I just wanted to take the time to again say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W. of Boonsboro, MD
Contact Us for Home Improvement Projects
You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here to discuss your replacement windows, doors or other home improvement projects. We also replace roofs with the GAF Shingle System.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. is our sister company and can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Energy Awareness Month
It’s Energy Awareness Month. Are you aware how much energy you are using and how much you could be saving?
This is a great time of year to take an “energy inventory” around your home and in your life. Using energy wisely makes sense for the planet and for your monthly budget. Turning out lights in unoccupied rooms and keeping the thermostat at a comfortable temperature is a good start. Another easy change is replacing traditional light bulbs with LED bulbs. However, you may want to consider some home upgrades that could payoff big in the long run.
Do you remember how much your electric bill was during the hottest months of summer? How much was your electric, gas and/or oil bill last heating season? We know those can be painful memories, but now is a great time to make a change. You will sleep better, and maybe even a little warmer. There are things that you can do and some things for which you’ll likely need a professional. Here is a great article on the top 10 things to do to save energy around the house.
Obviously a big aspect of saving energy is about keeping the inside air in and the outside air out. Most air leaks happen around windows, exterior doors and through top floor ceilings that aren’t well insulated. The energy and home improvement experts at MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD can help with these upgrades. Such improvements may save you up to 30 percent on utility bills. Our consultant can meet soon and help you start saving energy before the worst winter weather arrives in the Tri-state area.
Contact Us to Start Saving Energy Sooner Rather Than Later
Contact us online today if you want to talk about upgrading your home’s energy efficiency. Our core service area includes the greater Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas. If you prefer to call, we can be reached in our Clear Spring office at 301.766.7161.
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows, because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System we use is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
Want to Build an Energy Saving Home?
If you want to build an energy-efficient home, contact our sister company Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Fall is for Home Improvement Projects
Fall has come to Western Maryland and it’s a great time for home improvement projects.
Welcome to October, where cooler weather is giving us a preview of what’s to come. The month’s warm days and chilly nights are nearly perfect. 
However, the chilly nights will soon be frigid nights, with the furnace kicking on every few minutes. It’s a great time to think about your home and projects that might help with the winter weather. It’s a great time to consider a meeting with the pros at MTB Windows & More to discuss home improvement projects.
May we suggest that you inspect your windows and your exterior doors.
How old are those gateways to the outside? Do they seal tight when closed? On hot and cold days, do your windows and doors feel more like the indoor or outdoor temperature? The answers should tell you whether or not you are wasting valuable energy through your windows and doors. You may be losing so much heat and air conditioning that the savings from replacement windows and doors may quickly pay for the upgrade. After a few years, you will need decide what to do with the extra money in your household budget.
Superior Replacement Windows and Doors
We use high-quality products, like Andersen Windows and Therma-Tru Entry Doors, because we have found these to be the best for the money. You can read about the quality of the products, but we also boast about our installation services. Sometimes, these services are taken for granted.
The MTB home improvement professionals are trained by the manufacturers to install the products correctly. This ensures the work will be done right and the energy-efficient products will work as intended. The last thing you want is to spend good money on good products that don’t work well. You want windows that are air tight and doors that seal perfectly when closed.
You also want the added security that comes with these products, when installed correctly.
Photo from Therma-Tru Entry Doors
Contact Us for Home Improvement
You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here to discuss your replacement windows, doors or other home improvement projects. We also replace roofs with the GAF Shingle System.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. is our sister company and can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Labor Day Weekend!
We at MTB Windows & More hope you and your family have a safe Labor Day weekend!
Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer. We hope it is the beginning to a more normal part of 2020. We know this time can be a hectic time of year. It’s also a great time to look at your home and evaluate it, prior to the coming cold weather. How do the shingles on your roof look? Are your windows old and in bad condition? Do your exterior doors leak air? If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, our home improvement experts can help. 
We specialize in replacement windows, but can help with every project to upgrade your home.
Labor Day
Interesting Facts About Labor Day: Beginning in the late 19th century, as the trade union and labor movements grew, trade unionists proposed that a day be set aside to celebrate workers. In 1887, Oregon was the first state of the United States to make it an official public holiday. By the time it became an official federal holiday in 1894, thirty U.S. states officially celebrated Labor Day.
The holiday honors the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.
Labor Day is on September 7th this year in the U.S. Canada’s Labour Day is also celebrated on the first Monday of September. More than 80 countries celebrate International Workers’ Day on May 1 – the ancient European holiday of May Day – and several countries have chosen their own dates for Labour Day.
Labor Day Quotes
“Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” – Aristotle
“Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.” – Thomas Edison
“Without labor nothing prospers.” – Sophocles
“Nothing ever comes to one that is worth having except as a result of hard work.” – Booker T.
Why MTB for Replacement Windows and More?
Simply put, we use top-quality products that are installed by highly-trained professionals. Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are among the best for insulating your home and security. Insulation and security are also top features of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru.
And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. Click on this link to learn about the superior roofing material and the warranty that will help you sleep better at night.
Contact MTB for Your Home Improvement Needs
Contact us online today if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas for an assessment and quote. If you prefer to call, we can be reached in our Clear Spring office at 301.766.7161.
Happy Labor Day!
Renovate a Mountain Home as a Weekend Getaway
As city dwellers want to escape to the local mountains, buying and renovating a mountain home is a good option.
Many residents of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Northern Virginia enjoy weekend trips to the mountains of Maryland and West Virginia. The two-hour drive often leads to the desire to have a vacation home of their very own. That means building a mountain home or purchasing one and turning into that dream getaway. Building a custom home can get you exactly what you want. But, if the idea of doing some major renovations to make a good home a great one, MTB Windows & More can help.
These professional remodeling experts want to help you get even more excited about a future remodeling project. Experienced designers and builders can explain the myriad of home renovation options as part of such a project. Upgrades through MTB, or it’s parent company Mt. Tabor Builders, can include major and minor changes, depending on the need and budget.
Searching for Mountain Real Estate
The first step for those that want a mountain home, is too research the real estate market. Searches in Berkeley Springs, Paw Paw and Cacapon in West Virginia is a good place to start. Searches of the area can be expanded from there. The next step is to narrow down the options and take plenty of photos of those homes. Consulting with MTB home improvement specialists can then help narrow the decision, based on the desired outcome.
Once the purchase is made and the improvements are agreed upon, an MTB project manager will take the lead in working with the homeowners. That MTB rep will take care of the permitting process, help with any financing hurdles and then put together a work schedule. Since it will likely be a second home, the work schedule will be easy to outline. If it’s a primary home — relocating or retiring to the mountains — a schedule that fits into the homeowner’s schedule can be agreed upon.
Upgrades under the MTB purview include replacement windows, entry doors, roofing, exterior finishes and more. The products used — Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingles — bring new life to the look of the mountain home and add significant value to the property.
Home Remodeling in 2020
The types of projects expected to dominate this year and into next include the usual suspects; bathrooms, kitchens, additions and outdoor living spaces. Other upgrades include new windows and doors, roof replacements, siding and HVAC systems. This article about 2020 home improvement trends says a blend of professional renovations and DIY projects will be the norm. MTB’s project managers are flexible with such approaches, or happy to do 100 percent of the work.
Contact Us About Mountain Home Remodeling
today in our Clear Spring, MD office to discuss your mountain home project. You can also call us at 301-766-7161 or email info@mtbwindowsandmore.com.
Click here if you want to learn more about MTB Windows & More.
Click on this link to read the blog post about building a custom mountain home on the Mt. Tabor site.
Happy Independence Day from MTB!
Happy birthday America! We at MTB Windows & More wish everyone a happy and safe Independence Day.
The July 4th celebrations of 2020 might be some of the strangest in recent history. The events of the first half of this year have left some people angry toward our nation. Others are emboldened in their love of country. The rest of the people are simply focused of staying healthy, hoping things get 
better. But there will be celebrations, because this marks the 242nd year of independence from Britain.
We hope and pray these celebrations will cause unity and not division. Our hope is that everyone will focus on the accomplishments and not the mistakes.
We’ve collected some interesting facts about this holiday and our great country. Keep reading to learn more about the United States of America.
Home Improvements After the Independence Day Celebrations
Is this the summer you planned to do a home improvement project? Do you need new windows? Is your roof at the end of its life? For those jobs or others, contact our home improvement experts for an estimate today. We do home improvement projects and home repair throughout the Tri-state area of Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Our estimator for quotes on replacement windows, siding, roofing, and exterior doors.
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System we use is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
We work in Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Sharpsburg, Boonsboro, Mercersburg, Greencastle, Berkeley Springs, etc…
How Independence Came to Be
For years, the colonies and England had been at odds when the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia. In the June 7, 1776 session in the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall), Richard Henry Lee of Virginia presented a resolution. These are his now-famous words:
“Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
These words lead to the drafting of a statement presenting to the world the colonies’ case for independence. That lead Thomas Jefferson to draft The 
Declaration of Independence.
The facts below add the historical mystique of America’s early years.
Interesting Facts About America’s Birthday & Early Years
- The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 men, eight of which were British.
- The oldest signer of the document was 70-year-old Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania.
- The first reading of the Declaration of Independence was in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776. The public was summoned by the ringing of the Liberty Bell.
- Presidents John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe all died on July 4th.
- Adams was the first president to live in the White House, when it opened in 1800.
- Abraham Lincoln is America’s tallest president, at six feet, four inches. James Madison was our shortest president, standing just five feet, four inches.
- The original Capital of the United States was Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Abraham Lincoln is in the Wrestling Hall of Fame.
- Treasury Secretary Salmon P. Chase was the first face on the one dollar bill.
- The Secret Service was created on the day Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. However, it wasn’t the role of the agency to protect the president until 1901. It was created to track down counterfeiters.
#Happy4thofJuly
Happy Father’s Day
Happy Father’s Day weekend from everyone at MTB Windows & More.
We hope Father’s Day is a great one for all who take on the noble cause of being great fathers to their children! We know the job of “dad” — making sacrifices and taking a leadership role — is not always an easy one. Because of that, we hope they feel valued and appreciated this coming Sunday.
Father’s Day History
The Father’s Day tradition can be traced back to the small mining town of Monongah, West Virginia in 1907. It was there that a memorial service for a large group of miners was thought to be the inspiration for the national holiday. The push for the holiday was spearheaded by Sonora Dodd of Spokane, Washington. She proposed June 5th, because it was her father’s birthday. He had raised six children as a single parent. It took several decades to finally become a recognized holiday, as Dodd continued to promote it to those in power.
President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers in 1966. He designated the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. He would be signed into law in 1972 by President Richard M. Nixon.
Father’s Day Gift Ideas
The perfect Father’s Day gift is often as allusive as a clear picture of Bigfoot. However, the internet and online shopping make it easier to find one he’ll like, rather than just finding a tie or after shave. Searching for “Best Father’s Day Gifts 2020,” finds great gadgets for easing pain, keeping away bugs and fixing the car. Just click here for an article on the top 19 Father’s Day gift ideas.
MTB Windows & More for Father’s Day
Is you dad needing help with home improvement projects? If so, maybe setting up an estimate should be part of of this year’s gift. We do home improvement projects and home repair throughout the Tri-state area. Our estimator is available to give a quote on replacement windows, siding, roofing, and exterior doors. We work in Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Sharpsburg, Boonsboro, Mercersburg, Greencastle, Berkeley Springs, etc…
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System we use is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
#HappyFathersDay
Have a Great Memorial Day Weekend!
We at MTB Windows & More hope everyone has an enjoyable and safe Memorial Day Weekend.
Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer and we hope it means the start of a return to normal life.
The upcoming holiday is about remembering. It’s about remembering those who have served, because some of those gave all so many could live free and pursue happiness. It will also be about remembering when things were different in our world. The COVID-19 virus has caused illness, death, anxiety and an incredible disruption in all areas of life. This will certainly be a Memorial Day to remember. The usual pageantry of parades, ceremonies and large gatherings of loved ones will be muted, at best. However, it might be the start of people leaving their quarantine situations, as restaurants 
and shops re-open and re-engage their customers.
We encourage people to move forward, while being wise and adhering to the restrictions that keep everyone safe. If you’re sick, stay home and get well. If you’re going out, where a mask in public places and keep a six-foot buffer from others. Wash your hands frequently and keep your hands away from your face.
Memorial Day Facts
Did You Know: Memorial Day is Monday, May 25, 2020. The holiday began after the American Civil War in 1868, when the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans established it. It was originally called Decoration Day, because the citizens were encouraged to decorate the graves of those who died in the war. By the 20th Century, competing Union and Confederate holiday traditions merged and Memorial Day honored all Americans killed while in military service.
Read more about the Memorial Day holiday by clicking here.
From everyone at MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD, we say “thank you” for all who have served to protect and defend our nation.
Why MTB for Replacement Windows and More?
Simply put, we use top-quality products that are installed by highly-trained professionals. Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are among the best for insulating your home and security. Insulation and security are also top features of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru.
And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. Click on this link to learn about the superior roofing material and the warranty that will help you sleep better at night.
Contact Us for Your Home Improvement Needs
Contact us online today if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas for an assessment and quote. If you prefer to call, we can be reached in our Clear Spring office at 301.766.7161.
April is National Month of Hope
April is National Month of Hope and our world is definitely in need of hope.
Photo by James Jester
While most of the planet is clamped down due to corona virus (COVID-19), there is reason to hope. Warmer temperatures and extra time with family are among the better outcomes from the havoc. We’ve also heard great stories of people helping people during this time. Many healthcare workers are making sacrifices to take care of those infected. Even inside the health crisis, there is some good news. Most people recover from the virus. Children often have little or no symptoms from it. The number of new cases from where it started is declining. Countries are working together on a common goal of limiting the spread and finding a cure. And, we should find hope in that the global community should be better prepared for future outbreaks.
Other stories of hope include:
- Miraculous stories of recovery by elderly patients.
- Many celebrities and professional athletes donating large sums of money to institutions and essential workers in need.
- Chefs teaching free, online cooking classes.
- Air pollution has plummeted in cities with high numbers of quarantined individuals.
- Venice, Italy’s canal waters are clear.
- Artists giving free, online concerts.
- The early release of films to watch through streaming services.
- People purchasing local goods and services to help community-based business owners.
- People making masks due to the shortage of such essential equipment.
We Have Hope
We at MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD, also have hope. Our hope that once this global pandemic is over, people will be more kind toward each other. We hope families will be closer and people will enjoy going back to work and serving alongside their coworkers.
We also hope to get to serve them as they return to everyday life.
MTB’s Services and Products
We do home improvement projects and home repair throughout the Tri-state area. Our estimator is available to give a quote on replacement windows, siding, roofing, and exterior doors. We work in Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Sharpsburg, Boonsboro, Mercersburg, Greencastle, Berkeley Springs, etc…
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System we use is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
Our sister company — Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. — specializes in building custom homes, major additions, major renovations and building outdoor living spaces.
Think Home Improvement During Heart Month
February is National Heart Month, so start thinking about great ways to strengthen your heart and home improvement upgrades.
Okay, we know one thing has nothing to do with the other, but we’re in the throes of winter — albeit a strange one — and we just want you to think about some important things. The first is that heart disease is the number one killer of men and woman in the U.S. Since we think be should be healthy and live a long life, we want to us this space to share some good news. That good news is that you make a change and live a healthier and longer life.
Below are a list of recommendations from the American Heart Association.
Wisdom for a Healthy Heart
- Be smoke-free. Click on this link to learn how to quit smoking.
- Manage your blood cholesterol. Click here to learn how to manage you cholesterol.
- Manage your blood pressure. This link to the Mayo Clinic can help with blood pressure issues.
- Manage diabetes, and get tested for it if not diagnosed with it. Read more here about this disease that impacts 10 percent of the country.
- Be physically active. Try these six low-impact cardio exercises.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Get moving and then click here for tips to control your appetite.
- Enjoy a variety of nutritious foods. Click here for 20 foods that can save your heart.
- Look after your mental health. Here are nine suggestions to help your mental health.
Meet Now for a Spring Home Improvement Project
Now, as your eating better and exercising, start thinking about the upgrades needed at your home. That’s right, spring is getting closer every day. One of the suggestions in the mental health article is to focus on one thing. We suggest focusing on a home project that adds to your home’s beauty. Right 
now, your grass and landscape are pretty dreary. But soon, they will come to life. Think about how beautiful the house would like with new siding, replacement windows, exterior doors, roof, etc….
We at MTB Windows & More want to meet with you now, while the sketchy weather keeps us inside for the next month or more. If you’ve noticed cold air coming in around your windows and doors, we want to help. If you’ve noticed your shingles breaking or water coming through your ceiling, we want to help. If your siding is ugly and you want it changed, we want to help.
If you would like expert help, contact us here for questions or to schedule a meeting.
We hope you and your family have a happy and healthy February!
Is the Cold Air Finding You Inside Your Home?
New windows, doors, roofing and siding can all help keep cold air outside and warm air inside.
Right now, the Tri-State area of Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia is experiencing the dark days of winter. This is the time to inspect your home and answer these questions. Do my windows let cold air inside? Do I hear the whistling of the winter 
winds come past my exterior doors? Is my roof breaking down to a dangerous level under the freezing temperatures?
Even if we can’t help during this winter, getting information on your home now will help when the home improvement season begins. That could be perfect timing with a tax refund. Investing that back into your home will pay off, because the savings will come through years of smaller heating costs.
If the answers to the questions above keep you up at night, plan to contact the professionals at MTB Windows & More soon. We can make a plan, get an estimate and show you the wisdom in 
replacement windows and doors. We’ll do our best to inspect roofing materials, but weather will dictate whether we can see the issues at hand.
The MTB professionals use some of the best products on the market, meaning your home’s heating system won’t have to work as hard to keep the warm air in and the frigid air out. You’re paying to heat your home. Let’s work together to keep the heat in in the winter and keep the heat out in the summer.
Top-Quality Building Products
Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are top quality for insulating your home and security. Insulation and security are the top features of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru.
And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. Click on the link above to learn about the superior roofing material and the warranty that will help you sleep better at night.
Contact Us for Home Improvement Estimate
Contact us online today if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas for an assessment and quote. If you prefer to call, we can be reached in our Clear Spring office at 301.766.7161.
New Year’s Resolutions and a Look Back at 2019
The new year is here and so are the New Year’s Resolutions that will shape 2020.
Each new year brings reflections on the old year passing and dreams of the new one to come. We are so thankful for another year of helping others and seeing our business grow and improve. We met many new friends in 2019 and hope 
those will become life-long connections. As folks are sitting down now to make their New Year’s Resolutions for 2020, we thought it would be fun to see the wisdom the internet holds for such suggestions. The typical ones of losing weight, eating better, going to church, saving money, exercising more, etc… have been replaced. The ones we found achieve similar results, but in smaller “bites,” you could say. These include building a better budget; eating vegetables regularly; doing one new exercise; etc…. To learn more, read the full article here.
If your resolutions include upgrading your home in 2020, please let us help. Our home improvement experts know how to install replacement windows, replacement doors, roofing, siding and much more. We install great products — Andersen Windows, ThermaTru Doors, GAF Singles, etc… — the right way. Our specialists are trained by the manufacturers to make sure it is done right. Great products installed correctly means the best value for the consumer’s money.
To schedule an estimate, contact us here or by calling our Clear Spring, MD office at 301.766.7161. You can also email our office staff at info@mtbwindowsandmore.com.
While looking forward to a great new year, we also thought to search for good news from 2019. Sometimes the bad news leads and the good news gets forgotten by those reporting. We know that we at MTB Windows & More heard plenty of good news in the greater Hagerstown area, but what about the rest of the world? We were surprised to find headlines like:
Good News Headlines from 2019
Ethiopia Smashed World Record for Tree Planting
Poaching of Rhinos, Elephants Drops Dramatically in Kenya
Cigarette Smoking Among Adults in the US Reaches All-time Low of 13.7%
Type 3 Polio Officially Becomes Second Species of Poliovirus Eliminated in 2019
Report Shows Children’s Lives have Improved in 173 out of 176 Countries Since 1999
According to the World Bank, India Halved its Poverty Rate in the Past 30 years.
To read more good news, click on this link. There are 99 inspiring stories (snippets of stories) that will encourage you as you boldly go into 2020. We hope you will be someone’s inspiring story as we approach the year 2021 a year from now. Until then….
Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas from MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD
Everyone at MTB Windows & More wishes you a Merry Christmas and a great holiday season!
“We wish you a merry Christmas. We wish you a merry Christmas…” Okay, now that you have the song in your head, we really do wish you a Merry Christmas, a happy holiday season and a great start to the new year!
This is also a great time for us to say “thank you” to all of our clients, who were among the highlights of 2019. We look forward to serving you again in the future. We hope and pray the new year is a great one for all, and that peace will be the main thing we celebrate this time next year.
Click here to find out more about MTB Windows & More home improvement company. If you prefer to talk to us, click here to send a message or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301.766.7161. Our techs specialize in installing replacement windows and replacement exterior doors.
And while you’re waiting for Santa and the New Year to arrive, enjoy reading about the way others celebrate Christmas around the world.
Christmas Traditions from Around the World
UKRAINE
Celebrations of Christmas around the world often include acts of charity. Ukrainians traditionally hang spider web-shaped decorations on the tree. This reflects their legend of the poor widow who didn’t have enough money to decorate her tree, but when her children awoke on Christmas day, the tree was covered in webs that glistened gold and silver in the new day’s light.
JAMAICA
Jamaicans dress in elaborate costumes to celebrate Christmas with parades and “Junkanoo” dancers, which is based on African dances. The December 26th festival may have started as early as the 16th Century.
SPAIN
The Spanish dish, turrón, a sweet dish made from honey, egg white, sugar, and toasted almonds, is served during Christmas. Recipes date back to the 16th Century.
GREAT BRITAIN
Mistletoe was first hung as a Christmas decoration in Great Britain. However, the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is thought to have originated in other parts of Europe.
HOLLAND
Children in Holland receive presents from Sinterklaas on December 5, rather than on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. And if they leave carrots for Sinterklaas’s horse, he’ll leave sweets for the kids.
ICELAND
Thirteen jólasveinarnir, or “Christmas Lads,” deliver presents to children in Iceland. Originally, the Christmas Lads were pranksters. Each showed up on a specific day around Christmas and performed a trick.
JAPAN
Children in Japan receive their Christmas presents on their pillow during Christmas night. Many Japanese families serve fried chicken as their traditional Christmas meal.
NORWAY
In Norway, people hide all the brooms in the house on Christmas Eve to prevent witches from stealing them for a midnight ride. It’s also a Christmas Eve tradition to leave a bowl of porridge in the barn for the gnome who protects the farm.
GERMANY
In Germany, it is traditional for children to decorate their Christmas lists with pictures and then leave them on the windowsill overnight. Then, the Christkind delivers gifts at Christmas. Also in Germany, it’s a tradition to leave a shoe or boot outside the front door on December 5, so that Sinterklaas will put small presents in their shoes for the following morning (Saint Nicholas Day).
RUSSIA
Here, Christmas is celebrated on January 7, and Babouschka brings gifts to children. Babouschka, meaning old woman or grandmother in Russian, is based on the biblical story of the woman who didn’t give a gift to the baby Jesus. So, to repent, she gives gifts to children. Wonder why we celebrate Christmas on December 25 anyway? Here’s where the tradition came from.
POLAND
The traditional Christmas meal in Poland is called the Wigilia. Held on Christmas Eve, Wigilia is derived from the Latin phrase “to watch.” Families here believe that what happens during Wigilia festivities predicts the coming year.
ITALY
Italian families celebrate Christmas Eve with the Feast of the Seven Fishes and eat lentils during the holiday season to ensure luck and wealth for the following year. The children in Italy receive gifts from La Befana during Christmas.
IRELAND
It’s traditional for Irish families to leave out mince pies and pint of Guinness as a snack for Santa. As kids get older, this tradition may come to an end and continue to be passed on. Learn about what to say when your child asks, “Is Santa real?”
FINLAND
In Finland, families decorate the holiday tree with geometric mobiles made out of straw. It’s also customary to enjoy a sauna on Christmas Eve before Santa’s visit; according to the ancient custom, this ritual cleanses the body and mind.
Our Services and Products
We do home improvement projects and home repair throughout the Tri-state area of Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, and exterior doors. We work in Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Sharpsburg, Boonsboro, Mercersburg, Greencastle, Berkeley Springs, etc…
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System we use is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
Our sister company — Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. — specializes in building custom homes, major additions, major renovations and building outdoor living spaces.
Merry Christmas!
Hello December!
Hello December! Bring on the holidays and the start to winter and a new year.
December can be such a great month, as long as you plan it well and execute the plan with precision. After all, there are decorations to be put up, shopping to be done, bowl games to watch, family to be entertained, holidays to be enjoyed, meetings to be scheduled and — if there is time left — relaxing to be done. Meetings to be scheduled?! Well, that is if you are planning an home improvement project soon or in 2020.
December is a busy month, but there are ways to get all of this done. Here is a link to a helpful article for some assistance, because we want you to enjoy this time of year.
Now, back to the idea of meeting with home improvement specialists during this time of year. Winter hasn’t officially started yet, so contact us now if you’re thinking of replacing windows and doors. These upgrades can save on utility costs before the furnace stays on all winter long. We usually have some holes in our schedule during the holiday season. We like to fill this time with meeting new clients and completing jobs before the frigid weather arrives.
While you’re planning your December schedule, be sure to take in some of the fun opportunities in the greater Hagerstown, MD area. Click on this link to pick and choose from all the great events. We hope your holiday season is a great one!
December Dates to Remember
December is derived from the Latin word decem, which means “ten” because it was the tenth month of the early Roman calendar.
- December 6 is Saint Nicholas Day. St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, inspires traditions around the world from hunts for presents to stockings or shoes filled with sweets.
- December 7 is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Remembering those who died during this attack by the Japanese in Hawaii.
- December 13 is St. Lucia’s Day, which has long been associated with festivals of light.
- December 15 is Bill of Rights Day, declared in 1941 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- December 21 is the Winter Solstice — the first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and first day of summer in the Southern Hemisphere.
- December 24 is Christmas Eve, the night before Christmas, marked with many family and church gatherings.
- December 26 is Boxing Day (Canada, UK).
- Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22, and ends at sundown on the 30th.
- December 31 is New Years Eve, ushering out of the old year and welcoming the new one.
December is for Meeting with MTB Windows & More
If you would like to meet to discuss your upcoming project, contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at (301) 766-7161. We do home improvement projects — including roofing — and home repair throughout the Tri-state area of Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. We work in Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Sharpsburg, Boonsboro, Mercersburg, Greencastle, Berkeley Springs, etc…
Our sister company — Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. — specializes in building custom homes, major additions, major renovations and building outdoor living spaces.
Happy Thanksgiving from MTB!
Happy Thanksgiving and thank you for a great year.
The staff at MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD is grateful and hopes that your Thanksgiving is about taking the time to appreciate everything good in 2019. Our staff members also hope that it will be a safe and happy holiday for you, your family and your friends.“Thanksgiving is more than turkey and football. It’s a time to get together with family and relax. It is also a time to sit back and thank God for the many blessings, as a family, as a business and citizens of this country. I hope we can all be more thankful in the next year, and not just think about our blessings at Thanksgiving.” — Willie Eby, MTB Windows & More in Clear Spring, MD
Did You Know This About Thanksgiving?
1. What year was the celebration that is most commonly considered to be the first Thanksgiving?
A: 1621. This is the celebration that people most often talk about when they are talking about the “first” Thanksgiving. But there are others that are claimed to be the first Thanksgiving. There was another celebration in Plymouth in 1623 and one in Boston in 1631 that people claim was the actual first Thanksgiving.
2. How long did the first Thanksgiving celebration last?
A: Three days. It was celebrated much earlier than our current celebration, possibly in late September. There were about 50 European settlers and around 90 native Americans (from the Wampanoag tribe) who attended the multi-day feast.
3. Under which president did Thanksgiving become an annual holiday?
A: Abraham Lincoln. The U.S. has celebrated Thanksgiving off and on since 1774. On November, 26, 1789 George Washington made a proclamation that the country would celebrate a day of thanksgiving to God. Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday after Sarah Joseph Hale, the woman who wrote “Mary Had A Little Lamb,” convinced Lincoln to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. That came after writing letters to him for 17 years.
4. Was turkey served at the first Thanksgiving?
A: Turkey wasn’t served at the first Thanksgiving. Legend has it that venison, duck, goose, oysters, lobster, eel, and fish were shared, along with pumpkins and cranberries. Surprisingly, it is believed that the pumpkins were served in a stew and in pies, although slightly different than we make today.
5. Which president was the first to give a turkey a presidential pardon?
A: Ronald Reagan. John F. Kennedy was the first president on record for unofficially sparing a Turkey in 1963. The Reagan administration in 1987 gave the first official presidential pardon to a turkey as a joke. The turkey was spared and put into a petting zoo. George H. Bush made it an annual tradition in 1989 and each president since has carried on the tradition.
Thankful for Kind Words about our Home Improvement Services
“I just wanted to take the time to again say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W. of Boonsboro, MD
Home Improvement Services from MTB Windows & More
We hope you enjoy the entire Thanksgiving week. If you would like help designing and completing a home improvement project or home repair soon, please contact us right away by clicking here or calling us at 301.766.7161. We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, and exterior doors in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
November is for Home Improvement Projects
Welcome to November in Western Maryland
Welcome to November, the month that reminds us to be thankful; a month to have some pre-winter fun; and a month to meet with us at MTB Windows & More, Inc. to discuss home improvement projects for the end of this year or in 2020.
November’s warm days and chilly nights is the perfect time to gather with family and friends around a fire pit. It’s also a great month for playing sports outside, going for a hike or bike ride, or even planting a fall garden.
If you want something of the lower-impact variety, go to a local park or attend a fall festival. For more Hagerstown, MD-area fall ideas, click here.
This is a great time of year for home improvement projects. If you’re thinking of replacement windows or replacement doors to help on your utility bills, let’s talk soon. The cold air is on its way and we want to help keep it outside of your home. We specialize in windows, doors, roofing and siding. If you have another need, we can probably help with it. Our sister company — Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. — can handle larger building, renovation and home repair projects.
What Makes November Special
Month-long celebrations and special days include:
Election Day — Tuesday, Nov. 5th Veterans Day — Monday, Nov. 11th
World Diabetes Day — Thursday, Nov. 14th
Thanksgiving – Thursday, Nov. 28th
American Indian Heritage Month — Learn more about this country’s native people group.
Good Nutrition Month — Commit to eating a low-carbohydrate diet, cutting process sugar and increasing lean protein and fiber intake.
Aviation Month — Learn how air travel started with the Wright Brothers in 1903.
American Diabetes Awareness Month — Have your blood sugar checked and start cutting back on your sugar intake and increasing activity.
National Stamp Collecting Month — Learn about the history of postage stamp artwork.
National Peanut Butter Lover’s Month — Celebrate this delicious concoction of Marcellus Gilmore Edson.
MTB’s Home Improvement Services & Products
We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, and exterior doors in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas. To discuss your home improvement project, contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161.
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. .
Replacement Windows to Save on Utility Bills
Having replacement windows installed now will ensure that you will save money on this winter’s utility bills.
MTB Windows and More wants to save you money. This isn’t a pitch for a week-long sale. This is about investing in your home to have long-term savings, because once the windows are paid for, the money can stay in your pocket!
MTB installers are trained by the manufacturer, Andersen Windows. Andersen is recognized as an industry leader in replacement windows.And that, combined with our expertise, means the job will be done right. Andersen Windows provide an upgrade to the security and energy efficiency you don’t find in builder-grade and inexpensive replacement windows.
Plus these windows can add style, because they come in an unlimited number of custom sizes and colors. And if you like a more natural look, you can choose wood stain pre-finishes, such as pine, mahogany, oak, maple, etc…This allows the owner of an older home to make a near-perfect match to existing characteristics of the dwelling. This is especially important if the owners want to keep the look of the original windows, but upgrade to a better window.
Warranty Options
Andersen replacement windows are maintenance-free, which can also be called, “worry-free.” Andersen also boasts having some of the best warranty options in the replacement window industry. This includes a transferable warranty for the next owner of the home. This is something that can add value to a home for sale.
ENERGY STAR® Partner
Andersen was the first window manufacturer to be named an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year, because of the materials 
and engineering that go into their products. As an example, Andersen produces products like SmartSun™ glass, blocking 95% of the sun’s harmful UV-rays. PassiveSun™ glass brings the heat from sunlight into your home, saving on fuel bills.
Contact MTB for Replacement Windows & Other Home Projects
To discuss our replacement window options, contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161. We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Our Top-Quality Building Products
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows, because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature (pardon the pun) of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. We also do other home improvement work.
Client Testimonial
“I just wanted to take the time to again say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W. of Boonsboro, MD
Welcome to October!
October is a great month for so many things, including the start to holiday season and start to a new year.
We at MTB love this time of year. Cooler weather moves into the area in October. Families and friends start planning gatherings this time of year. And, we get busy helping people get their homes ready for the cold weather, that will soon follow. Those are some facts about how we feel about October.
Do you know these interesting facts about the eighth month of the year?
October Facts
The name October comes from the Latin “octō”, meaning “eight”, because in the Roman calendar October was the eight month of the year. January and February were added to the beginning of the year after the Julian calendar reform.
The Anglo-Saxons used a term for October meaning “fullness of winter,” because it had the first full moon of the winter season.
According to folklore, if the deer have a gray coat in October, you should expect a hard winter.
The holiday of Halloween, celebrated in October, comes from “All Hallows’ Eve” or the night before “All Hallows” day (All Saints Day). In old English, “hallow” means “to sanctify.”
Famous people born in October include Angela Lansbury, Bill Gates, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon, Julie Andrews, Hugh Jackman, Alfred Nobel, Anne Rice, Arthur Miller, Auguste Lumière, Friedrich Nietzsche, Christopher Columbus and John Keets.
The birthstones for October are the tourmaline and the opal. Tourmalines display a wide spectrum of colors, such as yellow, pink, blue, red, green, black or brown. Opals exhibit different colors (green, white, yellow, blue, pink etc.) depending on the conditions under which they were created.
The traditional flower of the month of October is the Calendula, symbolizing comfort, healing, protection and grace.
Special holidays in October include Halloween (October 31), Columbus day (October 14), Yom Kippur (Oct. 8 – 9) and International Peace Day (October 2nd).
Why Contact MTB Windows & More in October?
This is a great time to contact us, because cold weather is on it’s way. Since our home improvement experts specialize in keeping the cold outside, contact us now for a meeting. We’ll be glad to tell you about our replacement windows and replacement exterior doors. We use top-quality Andersen Windows and Therma-Tru entry doors. Not only are products among the best, our installers are trained by the manufacturer to install them correctly, because we want satisfied customers. Satisfaction means a the job done right and low utility bills on the coldest — and hottest — of days.
If you need a new roof, we install GAF Shingle Systems. The system includes a high-quality underlayment for added protection between the wood sheathing and shingles. It also is a 6-nail shingle system. This 6-nail pattern allows MTB and GAF to offer a lifetime warranty to withstand winds of up to 130 miles per hour.
We serve the greater Hagerstown, Washington County and Frederick County area. We also serve customers in nearby Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Virginia.
Happy Labor Day from MTB!
Everyone at MTB hopes you and your family have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend!
Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer. We know this makes some people sad (students), while other people (parents and those who hate the heat) have been anticipating this weekend for months. Know matter your perspective, we at MTB Windows & More hope it was a great summer. We also hope the fall is even better.
We know this time of year can be hectic, but we are ready to help get your home ready for the upcoming season. Our home improvement experts love to help homeowners get a major job accomplished. This allows homeowners to tend to the more important things in life.
Other things we love are trivia questions, calendar events and kind words about our work. Well, that may be a stretch, but we do have some great facts about the Labor Day holiday below. Most people know that Labor Day in the United States is celebrated on the first Monday in September. However, many might not know it honors the American labor movement. This movement brought strength, prosperity and well-being to our country as it was booming in the late 19th Century.
This year’s holiday is Monday, September 2nd.
Fun Trivia Facts About Labor Day
September Happenings in the Tri-state
September is the start to the busy fall season. Click here and here to find out all the September events in the greater Hagerstown, MD area.
Nice Words About Our Labor
We love to hear great feedback about our work. It makes us feel good, because we know that we have met and exceeded expectations. Here are a few words from Bill, who trusted us with his home improvement project in Boonsboro.
“I just wanted to take the time to again say thank you for all that you and your people have done. The workmanship is second to none as well as the expertise of the men that you have working for you, which says a lot about you as well as your company.” – Bill W., Boonsboro, MD
Contact Us for Home Improvement Projects
To discuss your home improvement or home repair needs, contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161. We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
We use top-quality building materials. Our choice for replacement windows is Andersen Windows,because they help insulate a home so well AND add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature (pardon the pun) of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. We also do other home improvement work.
August is Here, Cool Weather is Coming
August brings the unofficial close of summer and the start of the busy fall season. Many hope cool temperatures will start soon.
We at MTB Windows and More hope the summer has been a great one for your family and friends. We know the season is not completely over, but the “Back-to-school Shopping Ads” certainly make many start thinking about fall. By the end of August there should be a break in the weather. That means cooler evenings and soon that furnace will kick on to take the chill off. Is your home ready to keep the warm air in and cold air out?
Well, if it isn’t ready, the good news is that it can be. Contact us to schedule a meeting about replacement windows and replacement exterior doors. Many people wait until the cold air is blowing the curtains and the energy bills are climbing toward four digits. But, if you contact us now, the home improvement work can be completed before the winter coats are put on.
While you’re checking your available dates for a MTB Windows and More meeting, enjoy these interesting August facts and trivia.
August Facts
The name “August” was given by Roman emperor August, in 8 B.C. Until then, the Romans called the month “Sextilis,” meaning the sixth month of their calendar. August claimed this month his own because most of his victories occurred during this month. Many other versions of the name designate this month as Harvest Month.
Lammas Day (Aug. 1): This day marked the beginning of the harvest, especially the first wheat and corn crops. It derives from the ancient English festival the Gule of August, a pagan dedication of the first fruits the early English church, which later converted to Christian usage.
August 19th is National Aviation Day, chosen for the birthday of Orville Wright who piloted the first recorded flight of a powered heavier-than-air machine in 1903.
August’s birthstone is peridot, which is said to symbolize strength and healing power. Babies born in August are lucky to be guarded by peridot’s good fortune. Peridot is the rare gem-quality form of the mineral olivine, which appears in various shades of green.
August in the Northern Hemisphere is similar to February in the Southern Hemisphere.
August’s flower is the gladiolus. The flower was discovered in Africa in the 17-18th centuries and was initally used as food (don’t try this at home!).
Famous birthdays in August include Barack Obama, Cal Ripkin, Jr., Herman Melville, Hulk Hogan, Mila Kunis, Jennifer Lawrence, Ben Affleck, Madonna, Robert DeNiro, Peter O’Toole and Cameron Diaz.
“In August, the large masses of berries, which, when in flower, had attracted many wild bees, gradually assumed their bright velvety crimson hue, and by their weight again bent down and broke their tender limbs.” – Henry David Thoreau
August Events in History
Aug. 1, 1981 – MTV network debuted on cable television, actually playing music videos 24 hours a day. The Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star” was the first video shown, followed by Pat Benatar’s “You Better Run.”
Aug. 2, 1776 – The official signing of the United States Declaration of Independence took place.
Aug. 3, 1936 – Jesse Owens won the 100 meter dash, beating ‘the world’s fastest man Ralph Metcalfe at the Berlin Olympics.
Aug. 4, 70 A.D. – The Second Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans.
For more important August event dates, click here.
Astronomy in August
- August’s full moon, the Full Sturgeon Moon, rises on August 26 at 7:56 a.m. EDT. See more about the full Moon for August.
- August is a wonderful month for star gazing! It’s also the month of the Perseid meteor shower, which reach their peak between August 11 and 13.
- A partial solar eclipse occurs on August 11; in North America, it’s visible only in very NE Canada.
August Folklore
- As August, so February.
- Observe on what day in August the first heavy fog occurs, and expect a hard frost on the same day in October.
- If the first week of August is unusually warm, The winter will be white and long.
- So many August fogs, so many winter mists.
High-Quality Building Products
Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are top-quality in the industry, since they help insulate a home so well and add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature (pardon the pun) of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. We also do other home improvement work.
We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Mt. Tabor Builders Inc.
July is Here!
Welcome to July, a great month for planning home improvement projects.
The home improvement specialists at MTB Windows and More have some time this summer to discuss your projects. Does your home need replacement windows? Are your shingles ready for summer storms and frigid weather of the coming seasons? Are your exterior doors in good shape? If exterior doors have outlived there life, they no longer provide the best security and insulation, because of broken seals or framework that has settled.July Facts
Wacky Celebrations of July
July Astronomy
On July 4, Earth is at aphelion, the point in its orbit at which it is farthest from the Sun. The distance between the two orbs will be 94,513,221 miles.
July’s full Moon, the Full Buck Moon, occurs on the 16th, at 5:38 P.M. EDT. Read about the Full Buck Moon or see more Moon phases. Look up! Summer is a great time for stargazing. See our Sky Watch highlights to know what you’re seeing above.
Folklore for the Summer Season
Misc. July Facts
Contact Us
To discuss your home improvement or home repair needs, contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.May Starts Home Improvement Season
May is a great month to get started on your home improvement project.
The month of May is a perfect month for a lot of things. It could be the best month for household projects, since the warmer weather is here to stay. Now, those spring projects you’ve been thinking about all winter can finally get underway.
Schedule Your MTB Appointment
The Month of May
May’s Fun Days
May Folklore and Symbols
May’s flower is the Hawthorn or Lily-of-the-Valley. The hawthorn means hope, while the lily-of-the-valley symbolizes the return of happiness.
Our Quality Products
Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are top-quality in the industry, since they help insulate a home so well and add a layer of security. Security is also a key feature (pardon the pun) of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains.
We are always available to give a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Use Your Tax Return for Home Improvement
Tax returns are a great way to help pay for home improvement and home repair costs that are needed to upgrade your home.
April is here and spring has finally arrived in the Tri-state area of Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. And by now, you are either getting your tax information together or you are waiting for that refund to hit your account. Now is the time to start thinking about a wise way to invest that “new-found” money.
Some will see it as a windfall for a shopping spree, while others will see it as a chance to invest in their home or family.
A Wise Choice
We think one wise choice is to consider upgrading your house to make it a better place to come home to every day. Depending on what the government owes you, your refund may only pay part of the cost. But, coupled with some savings or a home equity line of credit or 401k loan, the dream can quickly become a reality.
“I love my new kitchen and the work you have done. The more I use it, now that I’m settled in, the more I really like it, as does everyone who has come up to see it. Thanks again!” – Linda Domer, Hagerstown, MD
The home improvement specialists at MTB Windows & More would love to talk with you about a building project. We specialize in exterior makeovers; replacement windows; new exterior doors; a new roof; and much more. Not only will these upgrades change the look of your place, it will make it more energy efficient and secure. Just think about the heating bills from this past winter and cutting those down dramatically when the chill returns around November.
MTB Windows & More uses some of the best quality products available, including Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Exterior Doors and GAF Shingles. Not only are the products great, but our home repair experts are each trained by the manufacturers to install these products exactly the right way. This ensures it will be done right the first time and will last like the makers intended.
Contact Us
To discuss your home improvement or home repair needs, contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
March Starts Home Improvement Season
March brings spring, which brings “better” weather, which brings the start of home improvement project season.
Are you thinking of upgrading your home in 2019? Replacement windows are great for keeping warm air inside next winter and frigid air outside, where it belongs. How about the exterior doors. Are they whistling a tune every time the wind blows? Did your roof BARELY make it through the rough months? We can replace it with one that will hold up and look great for decades.
While you’re making a list of all the upgrades, updates and repairs at your Tri-state area home, enjoy reading some interesting facts about the third month of the year.
Great Things About March
If you’re a sports fan, the words “March” and “Madness” go together like peanut butter and jelly. But, if you aren’t a college basketball fan, then consider these great things from the Old Farmer’s Almanac about the third month of the calendar year.
Special March Dates
- March 5: Mardi Gras (“Fat Tuesday”) or Shrove Tuesday. Read more about this holiday.
- March 8: International Women’s Day. Click here to learn more about this celebration.
- March 10: Daylight Saving Time begins at 2:00 A.M. Don’t forget to “spring forward” and set your clocks ahead one hour!
- March 15: The Ides of March. Beware the Ides of March!
- March 17: St. Patrick’s Day. Read more about about the traditional Irish holiday known as St. Patrick’s Day.
- March 20: The vernal equinox, marking the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, occurs on Wednesday, March 20, at 5:58 P.M. EDT. On this day, the Sun rises due east and sets due west. In the Southern Hemisphere, this date marks the autumnal equinox. Read more about the First Day of Spring!
- March 22: World Water Day brings attention to the need for safe drinking water for nearly one-third of the earth’s population. Click here to help solve this issue.
Getting Outdoors in March
- Planning a vegetable garden? Try the Almanac Garden Planner for free!
- Wondering when to plant what? Check out our free location-based Planting Calender to see when to start seeds and transplant in your area.
- Just getting started with gardening? Check out this Vegetable Gardening for Beginners Guide, as well as this numerous veggie, fruit, flower, and herb Growing Guides.
- Do you have birdhouses? Do a spring cleaning before tenants arrive for the season. Learn how to attract birds to your garden!
- Spring means fishing! See when the Best Days to Fish this year are for better results.
Contact Us
Contact us in our Clear Spring, MD office today if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas for an assessment and quote on your home improvement projects. We use some of the best products, including Andersen Windows and GAF Shingles.
If you are thinking of building, instead of doing a home improvement or home repair, then contact our sister company at the Mt. Tabor Builder’s website.You can also call the Mt. Tabor office at 301-766-7161.
Visit Us at the Home Show on March 9th or 10th
The Washington County Home Builder’s Assoc. Home Show is a great place to talk about your home improvement project.
The home improvement specialists from MTB Windows & More are available to talk dreams and plans next weekend at Hagerstown Community College. The campus’ ARCC building is the site of the 2019 Washington County Home Builder’s Association Home Show.
“We just like to meet people, answer their questions and talk with them from a very relaxed, no pressure approach” says Willie Eby, owner of the Clear Spring-based construction and home improvement company. The MTB team — at booth number 200 — has been a regular participant at the wildly popular two-day show.
This is the perfect opportunity to “interview” those who will be personally involved in designing and implementing your building project. MTB’s designer Royce Eby encourages folks to bring pictures and lists of desires in a project to the conversation. Of course, those discussions can take a deeper dive into what can and will be accomplished at a later date.
The MTB team and those in their sister company Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. have decades of experience doing home improvement; building custom homes; remodeling homes; adding major additions and in-law suites; and finishing basements.
Client Testimonies
Many of their clients over the years are glad they chose the teams from MTB and Mt. Tabor. Hear are several testimonials:
“I had never built a home before and I’m not someone who likes making decisions. I was very impressed with Willie and Royce. The more I talked with them, the more I knew I wanted them to build my house.
“The house is really tight. You don’t hear the rain or wind. Even in the hottest month this summer, my energy bill was only seventy-four dollars.” – Linda of Boonsboro
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“We started out talking to several other builders, but as we met with and talked to Willie and Royce, we were sold and went with them. We had heard the horror stories about people who build a house or build a big addition, but they made it a smooth process. We had no issues and we know we have a quality-built home.” – Isaac of Boonsboro
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“I had all these crazy ideas and they never said, ‘no.’ Willie, Royce and all of the Mt. Tabor guys are easy to work with and down to earth. They were so close to us (in Clear Spring) and made it very convenient to meet them at the house for regular meetings.” – Burma of Clear Spring
The Home Show takes place Saturday, March 9th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday the 10th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is just $2 for adults and free for children 12 and younger.
To learn more about Mt. Tabor, contact us here or call our office at 301.766.7161.
February is Here, But Spring is Coming
February is upon on us and that means spring – and home improvement season – is closer.
We at MTB Windows & More try and complete as many home improvement and home repair jobs in the winter as possible. But a few spring-like days gets us excited about installing replacement windows, exterior doors and roofs. And of course winter can be the last straw for some roofs that were on their last shingle. If you’re tired of hearing — and feeling — the howling winds, call us for an appointment. If your roof has finally given up the fight, call us before the spring rains move in. We would love to help you be happy — and dry — in your home.
And while you’re considering that call or email to schedule a meeting, read this interesting trivia about the second month of the year. Fact: February was not always the second month of the year.
February Facts
February was originally the last month of the calendar year. It was eventually moved in 450 B.C. to its place as the second month. This was done so the calendar would reflect a standard lunar year.
February is packed with holidays and history. February 2nd is Groundhog Day; the 12th is Abraham Lincoln‘s birthday; the 14th is St. Valentine’s Day; the 15th is Chinese New Year and Susan B. Anthony‘s birthday; the 18th is President’s Day.
and the 22nd is George Washington’s birthday.
The month of February is the only month that can pass without a full moon, in common years. The last time we witnessed such a scenario was last year (2018).
In common years, February starts on the same day of the week as March and November, and on leap years, it starts with the same day of the week as August.
February is American Heart Month; Black History Month; Bird-Feeding Month; and Dental Health Month.
Amethyst is the birthstone for those born in the month.
The Violet and the Primrose are the flowers for February.
February is named for the Latin word februum, which means purification.
And, the second month of the year is a day longer every four years. Do you know why? The answer is: A common year has 365 days and a leap year 366 days, with the extra day designated as February 29. A leap year occurs every four years to help synchronize the calendar year with the solar year, or the length of time it takes the earth to complete its orbit around the sun, which is about 365¼ days.
Contact Us
Contact us in our Clear Spring, MD office today if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas for an assessment and quote on taking care of your winter blues.
If you are thinking of building, instead of doing a home improvement or home repair, then contact our sister company at the Mt. Tabor Builder’s website. You can also call the Mt. Tabor office at 301-766-7161.
New Year’s Resolution: Home Improvement
Lose weight? Eat healthier? Read the Bible? Spend more time with friends? Are these some of your New Year’s Resolutions?
These are some great New Year’s Resolutions, but we think you should add some home improvements to your 2019 list.
The home improvement experts at MTB Windows & More have holes in their schedule for opportunities to replace windows, exterior doors, roofs, siding and to complete many other jobs. Many of these will help save on heating bills this winter and spring. This means you’ll invest in your home, rather than in the local utility company.
If you’ve had it with your old doors and windows, contact us to find out how much money can be added to your monthly budget. The MTB professionals use some of the best products on the market. This means your home’s heating system won’t have to work as hard to keep the warm air in and your house. The change will also provide a solid barrier to keep the frigid air out.
Replacement windows by Andersen Windows are top-quality for insulating a home and adding a layer of security. Security is also a key feature (pardon the pun) of the great-looking exterior doors made by Therma-Tru. And, the GAF Shingle System is among the best on the market for durability and resisting mold and stains. If your roof needs replacing, this is a great time to add insulation in your attic or to your roof line.
Do you know the easiest way to check how effective your insulation is above your family’s head? During the next snow — provided the temps stay down — see how long the snow stays on the roof. Snow that melts quickly on your roof without elevated outside temperatures, means the heat from your home is rising out of the living space and leaving through your roofing materials. We can help with this problem and save you money on home heating for years to come.
Contact Us
Contact us in our Clear Spring, MD office today if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas for an assessment and quote on taking care of your winter blues.
Happy Holidays!
Everyone at MTB Windows & More wishes you and your family a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
This is a great time of year for us at MTB Windows & More and we hope it is for you too. We hope you get to find time to spend with friends and family. We also hope you find time to slow down and relax, while thinking about the highlights of the past year.
This is also a great time to say “thank you” to all of our customers, who were the highlights of our year. We look forward to serving you again in 2019. We hope and pray the new year is a great one for all, and that peace and goodwill will prevail.
Contact us if you need a home improvement company in 2019. We are experts in roofing, windows, doors and siding projects. We use high-quality products, like Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingle Systems. You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here.
And while you’re waiting for ol’ St. Nick and the New Year to arrive, enjoy some interesting holiday trivia.
Holiday Trivia
1) When was Christmas originally celebrated?
2) In what century was the first written use of Xmas?
3) The modern Santa Claus is mainly a mix of what two historical figures?
4) The four sides of a dreidel display the letters Nun, Gimmel, Hey and Shin, mnemonics for the phrase Nes Gadol Hayah Sham. What is the usual translation of this phrase?
5) What was the poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas” originally titled?
6) Who created the first electric light Christmas display?
7) How long have people celebrated the new year?
8) When did the famous New York City New Year’s Eve celebration begin?
9) When did the famous ball become part of the celebration?
Happy Holidays from MTB Windows & More!
P.S. – Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. is our sister company and can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Thanksgiving from MTB Windows & More
We hope you have a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday.
Thanksgiving Trivia
1. What year was the celebration that is most commonly considered to be the first Thanksgiving?
A: 1621. This is the celebration that people most often talk about when they are talking about the “first” Thanksgiving. But there are others that are claimed to be the first Thanksgiving. There was another celebration in Plymouth in 1623 and one in Boston in 1631 that people claim was the actual first Thanksgiving.
2. How long did the first Thanksgiving celebration last?
A: Three days. It was celebrated much earlier than our current celebration, possibly in late September. There were about 50 European settlers and around 90 native Americans who attended the 3-day feast.
3. Under which president did Thanksgiving become an annual holiday?
A: Abraham Lincoln. The U.S. has celebrated Thanksgiving off and on since 1774. In 1789 George Washington made a proclamation that the country would celebrate a day of thanksgiving to God on November 26th. Some presidents after him continued the tradition, declaring different days of Thanksgiving. But it wasn’t until a proclamation by Lincoln in 1863 that the last Thursday of November became the official Thanksgiving holiday.
4. In what year did both the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and America’s Thanksgiving Parade start?
A: 1924. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was started by Louis Bamberger in Newark, New Jersey but was transferred to New York City where it is now held by Macy’s. America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit was inspired by Eaton’s Santa Claus Parade in Toronto, Ontario.
5. Which president was the first to give a turkey a presidential pardon?
A: Ronald Reagan. John F. Kennedy was the first president on record for unofficially sparing a Turkey in 1963. The Reagan administration in 1987 gave the first official presidential pardon to a turkey as a joke. The turkey was spared and put into a petting zoo. George H. Bush made it an annual tradition in 1989 and each president since has carried on the tradition.
Contact Us
Contact us if you need a home improvement company in 2019. We are experts in roofing, windows, doors and siding projects. We use high-quality products, like Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingle Systems. You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That service area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. is our sister company and can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Halloween from MTB Windows & More!
Everyone at MTB Windows & More hopes you and your family have a safe and happy Halloween.
This is the time of year for scary decorations and creepy costumes. However, the scariest thing to us is knowing cold weather is coming and people are relying on old windows, doors and roofs to keep out the elements. If you need a home improvement company in the greater Hagerstown, MD area to help you save on energy bills, then contact us today.
While you’re taking an inventory of all the upgrades you can make in your home, enjoy this Halloween trivia about the traditions we all know and love.
Halloween Trivia
Photo from Therma-Tru Doors
Why are pumpkins part of Halloween?
A: Pumpkins are actually indigenous to the Western Hemisphere and have been found on the continent for thousands of years. Pumpkins entered into the Halloween celebration after Irish immigrants came to America and found that pumpkins were easier to carve than potatoes for the holiday.
When did the Jack-’o-lantern become part of the autumn celebration?
A: Jack-’o-lanterns have been around for hundreds of years. The legend is of a man named Jack, who according to legend, invited the devil for a drink. Jack did not want to pay for his drink, so he made a deal with the devil. The devil turned himself into coins, but instead of paying for the drink, Jack kept the coins. Later freeing the devil, he promised to change him back if he did not steal his soul. Upon Jack’s death, God would not let him into heaven because of his past and the devil would not let him into hell. Instead, the devil gave Jack a piece of coal, which Jack placed into a turnip. The legend goes that Jack used the turnip and coal to light his way as he looked for a final resting place. The original jack-’o-lanterns in Ireland were carved out of turnips or potatoes.
Why do we have Halloween parties?
A: The idea of people gathering together to celebrate dates back to the early American settlers, who celebrated the harvest. People would gather at these events and would share ghost stories, dance, sing and tell fortunes. Since that time, Halloween has become more of a holiday about bobbing for apples and candy than celebrating the harvest.
Who is responsible for bringing Halloween to America?
A: Halloween is mix of traditions from Celtic, Catholic and Roman religious rituals. Celts would dress in costumes and light bonfires to ward off ghosts, thought to return on Halloween. The Celts believe that the boundaries between the living and the dead blurred on Halloween, making it easier for ghosts and spirits to return to cause mischief.
When did candy corn become part of the celebration?
A: More than 35 million pounds of candy corn is produced each year according to the National Confectioner’s Association. Created in the late 1800s, the three colors are supposed to look like the colors in kernels of corn.
How did ghosts become part of Halloween?
A: Most cultures and civilization contain some sort of stories about spirits, many of whom return from the dead. According to legend, ghosts are “specters” and belief is based on the thought that a person’s spirit lives on after their death. Places or structures that are haunted by ghosts are thought to have some sort of connection to the ghost’s past.
How did costumes become part of the holiday?
A: Costumes were first worn to tell each other’s fortunes and for protection against evil spirits. The first costumes in Ireland were made of animal heads and skins. The modern celebration of Halloween still involves costumes, but many are not as creepy or scary as the first.
Did Trick-or-Treat start in America?
A: Trick-or-treating for candy and prizes is a common tradition in the United States. A predecessor of trick-or-treating is a Scottish and Irish practice called “Guising,” where children went from door to door in costumes collecting coins and food. Children would only receive the prize if they did a “trick” such as song or dance, before the treat was given.
How much candy is given out on Halloween?
A: One quarter (600 million pounds) of all of the candy sold in the United States every year is purchased specifically for Halloween. Ninety million pounds of that is chocolate.
Contact Us
Contact us if you are thinking of roofing, windows, doors or siding projects. We use high-quality products, like Andersen Windows and Therma-Tru Doors. You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders is our sister company that can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Labor Day from MTB!
Everyone at MTB Windows & More hopes you and your family have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend!
This is the unofficial end of summer. We hope it was a great summer and hope the fall is even better. We know this time of year can be hectic, but if you are thinking about home improvement projects or home repairs, call us soon. Out schedule is booking up, and your likely want the work done before Old Man Winter comes for his annual visit.
Another thing we love at this time of year is a good set of trivia questions. Well, that may not be completely true, but we do have some great facts about the Labor Day holiday. And while most know that Labor Day in the United States is celebrated on the first Monday in September, many might not know it honors the American labor movement, which brought strength, prosperity and well-being to our country. There are currently about 157 million people above the age of 16 in the country’s workforce.
This year’s holiday is Monday, September 3rd.
10 Fun Trivia Facts About Labor Day
1) The first ever US Labor Day was celebrated on 5th of September. 1882 on Tuesday in New York City which was planned by the Central Labor Union.Contact Us
Contact us if you are thinking of roofing, windows, doors or siding projects in the next few months. You can call us at our Clear Spring office at 301-766-7161 or contact us here.
Our home improvement professionals work throughout Western Maryland. That area includes Hagerstown, Clear Spring, Hancock, Boonsboro, Smithsburg and Frederick County in MD.
Mt. Tabor Builders is our sister company that can help with building a home or doing a major addition or renovation. Click on this link to see Mt. Tabor’s gallery of projects.
Happy Independence Day!
Everyone at MTB Windows & More wishes you and your family a safe and happy Independence Day.
As we celebrate this great American holiday, we thought it would be a great time to learn more about this pivotal period in our nation’s history AND enjoy some Independence Day Trivia. We hope you will take the time to learn a little more about our country’s legendary beginnings and then, if you’re in need of home improvement and home repair services, contact us for the expert help we can provide.
Did You Know: On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. The colonies and England had already been at odds for a year when the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776. In a June 7th session in the Pennsylvania State House (today it is called Independence Hall), Richard Henry Lee of Virginia presented a resolution with the now-famous words:
“Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
These words led to the drafting of a statement presenting to the world the colonies’ case for independence. Members of the committee included John Adams of Massachusetts, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, Robert R. Livingston of New York and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia. The drafting of the actual document — The Declaration of Independence — was given to Jefferson.
On July 1, 1776, the Continental Congress reconvened, and on the following day, the resolution for independence was adopted by 12 of the 13 colonies. The process of revision continued through all of July 3 and into the late afternoon of July 4, when the Declaration was officially adopted. Today, the original copy of the Declaration is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence. The tradition of it being a patriotic celebration became even more widespread after the War of 1812, in which the United States again faced Great Britain. In 1870, the U.S. Congress made July 4th an unpaid federal holiday. It became a paid federal holiday in 1938.
Independence Day Trivia
- Only John Hancock actually signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. All the others signed later.
- The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 men from 13 colonies. Each could have been tried for treason had the revolution failed, losing their lives and their family property.
- The average age of the signers of the Declaration of Independence was 45. The youngest was Thomas Lynch, Jr (27) of South Carolina. The oldest delegate was Benjamin Franklin (70) of Pennsylvania. The lead author, Thomas Jefferson, was 33.
- The only two signers of the Declaration of Independence who later served as President of the United States were John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.
- The stars on the original American flag were in a circle so all the Colonies would appear equal.
- The first Independence Day celebration took place in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776. This was also the day that the Declaration of Independence was first read in public after people were summoned by the ringing of the Liberty Bell.
- The White House held its first 4th of July party in 1801.
- Presidents John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe all died on July 4th. Adams and Jefferson (both signed the Declaration) died on the same day within hours of each other in 1826.
- In 1776, there were 2.5 million people living in the new nation. Today the population of the U.S.A. is 326 million.
- Fireworks are part of the tradition of celebrating this national holiday. More than 250 million pounds of fireworks will go up in smoke in 2018.
- Grilling food is also big on Independence Day. Approximately 150 million hot dogs are consumed on this day.
- Every 4th of July, the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is tapped (not actually rung) thirteen times in honor of the original thirteen colonies.
If you need expert help with a home improvement project or any home repairs, please contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office during the week at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
We use high-quality materials, such as Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Exterior Doors and GAF Shingles.
A Great Father’s Day Gift
We at MTB Windows & More salute all dads on this Father’s Day weekend. Thank you for taking the time to invest in the lives of your family members.
We hope the day is great one for all dads who take on the noble cause of being great fathers to their children and making the sacrifices that often come with being a dad.
The Father’s Day gift has become somewhat of a joke, with the punchline being an ugly tie or after shave, that is — and rightfully so in most cases — never used.
If you search for “Best Father’s Day Gifts 2018,” you will find suggestions like wireless headphones, shoes, skin care products, aviator sunglasses, etc… Now we’re not saying these would not be appreciated, but let’s think more practically. What if you gave dad the gift of “free time?” Take a look at projects around dad’s house. Maybe some have been started or maybe some are “To Dos” that may never get done if he doesn’t have some professional help.
If those building projects — like new vinyl siding, replacement windows and/or doors, roofing, etc… — were done, could you spend the day with dad at the park or riding bikes or fishing? He would probably enjoy spending an entire Sunday with family and not worrying about the home repairs that need to get done. With those being off his plate, he could enjoy the nice summer weather after enduring a long, cold winter and a long, wet spring. With that in mind, he probably wouldn’t even mind picking up part of the bill. It may not be something he would do for himself, but in the end, he would be happy for the help of getting control of the work and having some precious time with those that matter most…his family.
If you would like to help your dad with a home improvement project or any home repairs, please contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office during the week at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
We use high-quality materials, such as Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Exterior Doors and GAF Shingles.
Again, Happy Father’s Day to all the dads in the Tri-state area of Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia!
#HappyFathersDay
Happy Mother’s Day!
From all of us at MTB Windows & More, we wish every mom a Happy Mother’s Day!
We know how important moms are to every household and we want to take time to celebrate each and every mother on their special day. The hard work they put in to build homes should never be taken for granted. If you don’t know what to get your mom on Mother’s Day (a home repair or home improvement project may be the perfect gift), at least take time to tell her how special she is and how much she means me to you.
Did You Know: The modern holiday of Mother’s Day was first celebrated in 1908, when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother at St Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Her campaign to make “Mother’s Day” a recognized holiday in the United States began in 1905, the year her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, died. Ann Jarvis had been a peace activist who cared for wounded soldiers on both sides of the American Civil War, and created Mother’s Day Work Clubs to address public health issues. Anna Jarvis wanted to honor her mother by continuing the work she started and to set aside a day to honor all mothers, because she believed that they were “the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.”
In 1914, Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating Mother’s Day, held on the second Sunday in May, as a national holiday to honor mothers. Jarvis’ holiday was adopted by other countries, and it is now celebrated all over the world.
If you would like to help your mom with a home improvement project or any home repair needs, please contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office during the week at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Great Ideas for Your Tax Refund
Tax season is coming to an end. What will you spend your tax refund on in 2018?
April is here and Spring has finally arrived in the Tri-state area of Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. And by now, you are either getting your tax information together because of the looming deadline or you are waiting for that refund to hit the mailbox or bank account. Now is the time to start thinking about a wise way to invest that “new-found” money.
Some will see it as a windfall for a shopping spree, while others will see it as a chance to invest in their home or family.
We think one wise choice is to consider upgrading your house to make it a better place to come home to every day.. Depending on what the government owes you, your refund may only pay part of the cost. But, coupled with some savings or a home equity line of credit or 401k loan (where you pay yourself back with no penalty), the dream can quickly become a reality.
The home improvement specialists at MTB Windows & More would love to talk with you about an exterior makeover; replacement windows; new exterior doors; a new roof; and more. Not only will these upgrades change the look of your place, it will make it more energy efficient and secure. Just think about the heating bills from this past winter and cutting those down dramatically when the chill returns around November.
MTB uses some of the best quality products available, including Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Exterior Doors and GAF Shingles. Not only are the products great, but our home repair experts are each trained by the manufacturers to install these products exactly the right way. This ensures it will be done right the first time and will last like the makers intended.
If we can be of service to you for your home improvement or home repair needs, please contact us here or call our Clear Spring, MD office during the week at 301-766-7161. We are always available to set up a quote on windows, siding, roofing, exterior doors, etc.. in Hagerstown, MD; Greencastle, PA; Martinsburg, WV; or the Frederick County, MD areas.
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter from everyone at MTB Windows & More!
We hope this time of renewal and rebirth is a special season for you, your family and your friends. For us, it is a time to reflect on a special blessing of knowing and understanding the ultimate sacrifice that God made when he sent “His only begotten son.”
Did You Know: Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. In the Bible’s New Testament, the resurrection occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died in roughly 30 A.D. The Easter holiday concludes the “Passion of Christ,” a series of events and holidays that begins with Lent—a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and sacrifice—and ends with Holy Week, which includes Holy or Maundy Thursday (the celebration of Jesus’ Last Supper with his 12 Apostles); Good Friday (on which Jesus’ death is observed); and Easter Sunday, also known as Resurrection Sunday.
Food For Thought: Knowing that Judas would betray Him, Jesus still washed his feet in the Holy Week ceremony that was the example of humility in leadership and love toward those closest to Him.
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The professional installers at MTB Windows & More use Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingles to add significant value to your home, which is due to the quality of these product lines.
Happy President’s Day Weekend!
Everyone at MTB Windows and More hopes you and your family have a happy and safe President’s Day weekend!
Did You Know?: Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of February. The day honors presidents of the United States, including George Washington, the country’s first president. It was originally established in 1885 in recognition of Washington and is still officially called “Washington’s Birthday” by the federal government.
Traditionally celebrated on February 22 — Washington’s actual birth date — the holiday became popularly known as Presidents’ Day after it was moved as part of Uniform Monday Holiday Act (1971), an attempt to create more three-day weekends for the nation’s workers. While some states still have individual holidays honoring the birthdays of Washington, Abraham Lincoln (Feb 12th) and others, President’s Day is now popularly viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents.
President’s Day Trivia (answers below)
1) What former president was on an African hunting trip when his enemy J. P. Morgan quipped: “Let every lion do his duty”?
2) What future president was the only U.S. senator from a Confederate state to remain in Congress after secession?
3) What president’s image graces a $100,000 bill?
4) What future U.S. president received the last rites of the Catholic Church after an infection following spinal surgery in 1954?
5) What war saw James Madison become the first U.S. president to command a military unit during his term in office?
6) What document did President Andrew Johnson want a copy of placed under his head upon his burial?
7) How many U.S. states are named after a president?
8) Who is the only president to have survived two assassination attempts by women?
9) What future president cheated on an eye exam to join the cavalry reserves in the 1930s?
10) What U.S. president installed solar panels on the White House roof?
The professional installers at MTB Windows & More use Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors and GAF Shingles to add significant value to home, which is due to the quality of these product lines.
President’s Day Trivia Answers
1) Theodore Roosevelt
2) Andrew Jackson
3) Woodrow Wilson
4) John F. Kennedy
5) The War of 1812
6) The U.S. Constitution
7) One
8) Gerald Ford
9) Ronald Reagan
10) Jimmy Carter
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s Resolutions!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our Family to Your Family
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to remodel your home, please plan a meeting with us right after the holidays are over. As home improvement specialists connected to a custom home designer and builder (Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc.), we have the experts on staff to help with small remodeling jobs to whole house renovation projects.On the MTB Windows side of things, clients can expect a total exterior transformation that will bring extraordinary curb appeal to a home that has maybe lost its luster. The products we use — Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors, GAF Shingles, etc… — not only bring new life to the look of the home, but add significant value due to the quality product lines.
Once the improvements are agreed upon, MTB will take care of the permitting process; help with any financing hurdles
; and then put together a work schedule so families can function as normally as possible in a temporary work zone. MTB Windows management takes pride in the company’s policy of leaving job sites neat, clean and safe at the end of each work day.
MTB Wishes You a Happy Thanksgiving
We hope you and your family have a great Thanksgiving!
And speaking of the end of the year, we believe Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday to lead into the Christmas season. While some seem to want to jump over it or leave it behind to rush to the Black Friday sales, we treasure this day as a reminder that we have so much, for which to be thankful.Schedule Meetings Now for 2018 Major Renovations
Meet and interview home improvement specialists now if you plan to do major renovations to your home in 2018.
Many people like their current home, but they don’t necessarily LOVE their current home. The thought of selling it and buying
After Renovation
another one and then moving is not an option for some. But, if the idea of doing some major renovations to make the home go from good to great is one you like, use the winter months to lay the foundation for the job. The foundation here is meeting with and choosing a home improvement specialist who can do what you want, in a timely and budget-conscious manner.
The professional remodeling experts at MTB Windows and More want to help you get even more excited about your future building project and get ready to dive in NOW! They want to meet with potential clients and nail down the details of what the home will become after the installation of new siding, windows, doors, etc…
One of the very first things to do before such a meeting, is to collect plenty of photos and drawings of what you want included in the renovation. In this case, color schemes and window and door styles are key factors. And while MTB focuses on certain aspects of such renovations, their sister company — Mt. Tabor Builders, Inc. — can handle everything else you can imagine and have the budget to complete.
Before Renovation
On the MTB side of things, clients can expect a total exterior transformation that will bring extraordinary curb appeal. The products used — Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru Doors, GAF Shingles, etc… — not only bring new life to the look of the home, but add significant value due to the quality of these product lines.
Once the improvements are agreed upon, MTB will take care of the permitting process, help with any financing hurdles and then put together a work schedule so families can function as normally as possible in a temporary work zone. MTB management takes pride in the company’s policy of leaving job sites neat, clean and safe at the end of each work day.
Contact us today in our Clear Spring, MD office if you are in the Hagerstown, Greencastle, Martinsburg or Frederick County, MD areas and are interested in major renovations to your home in 2018.