Where is Outlook Express in Windows 7?

Many XP users who have finally decided to upgrade to a newer version of Windows are noticing they are missing Outlook Express. Windows Vista got rid of the program and Windows 7 still does not have it because Outlook Express is basically discontinued. If you are quite attached to this there are a few options that you have.
The first option is to go to Microsoft's site and download Outlook Express. The download link still exists and the program will work on Windows 7. This is what many users are doing since they are used to the program.
Another option is to use the program Windows Live Mail. This is the default mail program that is included with Windows 7 that people switched over to when upgrading from XP to Vista.
The third option you have is to actually buy Outlook online or from a store. This will be the expensive option but it's the full featured version of the software that you enjoy and better than Outlook Express. This gives some assurance that if the Outlook Express download is ever taken down at least you own the software.
The last option to consider is going with an open source mail program like Thunderbird. When Windows 7 goes to a new operating system, you switch to Mac, or decide to use Linux, Thunderbird will always be the same piece of software and won't force you to upgrade to something you don't like as much. This makes it so that you have a long term program you can use for your email.

The author has many writing interests. Visit his site to learn more about a fireplace rug and a fireplace log holder to accentuate your fireplace.

What is the Best Windows Registry Cleaner Download?

Trying to find a good Windows registry cleaner download can be a pain with the hordes of available products online today.
All cleaners have been developed to do one thing - clean out the Windows application called the "registry". The registry is a huge hub that stores all of your personal settings and information safely in a central "memory bank", letting Windows continually bring up different files whenever you use your PC. This is vital since you will want to use a cleaner to remove bad files, viruses and more.
But, there are many registry cleaners that do not get the job done the right way. Since there is so much critical information stored in the registry, every time you open your PC, Windows is continually opening and fixing 1000's of registry files in some cases. This makes Windows perplexed, so it starts saving many files the wrong way, so they become corrupted and damaged. And when registry files become bad, their contents are scattered all over your system meaning that Windows takes much longer to understand them, slowing down to a snails pace & causing numerous system errors.
Registry cleaners scan all system files and then locate and remove corrupted files and any bad files from a software you may have deleted in the past for example. This means that if you use a low end registry cleaner, you run the chance of deleting the "good" files as well. Thhs can be the source of many issues with a PC, and in the end can cause permanent damage!
The best windows registry cleaner download will be the one that can scan and fix your registry files in the safest way, and keeping your computer in top shape. And since I have used numerous popular cleaners over the years, one I found that delivers what it says is a tool called Registry Easy, which works almost every version of Windows. Registry Easy is a fairly new registry cleaner, and it is fast becoming one of the most sought after since it has numerous extra features that allow it to fix the more registry problems than most of the others on your PC. They also supply a backup tool, to make sure you do not lose any vital information

There is more to keeping your PC running at peak performance than just a registry cleaner such as avoiding hackers,bad security software and more. If you want to keep your system secure and running the way it should, visit our site for registry clean up tips and information on all the latest help for optimization and security of your computer

Bathroom Replacement Windows - Choosing Between a Glass Block, Acrylic, Wood or a Vinyl Window

Selecting a bathroom replacement window is not easy. Choosing between a wood, vinyl, acrylic or glass block bathroom window is made easier by considering 7 criteria based on the window's design, cost, looks and function. This article will provide seven practical steps to help compare window types and will help you make the right selection for your window project.

Step 1 - Determine how much operability you need in the window - If you need a window that can open completely, (whether it be a side to side slider - an up and down double hung - or a crank out casement style) then a vinyl, wood or acrylic block window will be best. These types are available with different opening options to maximize air flow. A couple in Cleveland Ohio recently replaced an old single pane metal framed bath window that was literally rusted shut with a vinyl casement window and are now able to get the steam out of the bath area while simultaneously reducing heating and cooling costs.

Step 2 - Think through your need for security - If you're worried about vandalism, break-ins, or theft a glass block window is an excellent choice. These blocks are very difficult to break (it would take a sledgehammer to knock them out) and gaining entry would require that each unit be broken out individually - a task that takes a lot of time and makes a lot of noise - something burglars aren't looking to contend with. Many of these windows are also mortared into the foundation for additional security.

Step 3 - Evaluate how much privacy you want - If the bath window to be replaced is directly in or by a shower or tub you'll want to use a glass package that offers the maximum amount of privacy. For vinyl and wood windows you can use an obscure and tempered glass assembly for maximum safety and privacy. Acrylic and glass block windows are available with high privacy frosted, diamond, ice, or wave patterns that can even eliminate the need for curtains in a wet area. A single mother in Columbus Ohio felt much safer after replacing the old and rotten wood frame double hung window in her daughter's bathroom with a high privacy block window pattern with an integral air vent.

Step 4 - Develop a budget for your bath window - When it comes down to the budget rarely does someone say the skies the limit. If you're looking for a more cost-effective window vinyl or glass blocks are best, next most expensive will be the acrylic blocks, and the priciest windows will be made of wood. The opening designs of the windows will also have an impact on costs. Double hung and slider windows are generally the cheapest and the casements are most expensive. Make sure to consider the life cycle costs of your window - a more insulated glass package will cost more today but can pay for itself with reduced energy costs down the road.

Step 5 - Get money back from the government with an energy efficient glass package and save money on your heating and cooling costs- With the $1,500 energy tax credit available on windows with a U value of.30 or better (that is comparable to an R value of 3.33 or better) you can get back your investment in new replacement windows in a very short period of time. Look for wood and vinyl windows with Low E/Argon or Krypton filled glass packages. Make sure your windows are tax credit eligible before making any purchase.

Step 6 - Consider the interior and exterior design look you desire - For a classic and traditional look it's hard to beat the wood window (which looks very nice with fancy trim packages to finish the window on the inside). For a more contemporary design the sleek look of the block window will generate a more modern appearance.

Step 7 - Use decorative, frosted, etched glass or colored glass block to add style to your bathroom window - Why be boring when you can add a cool and distinctive look to your bath or shower window? You can use decorative etchings or mural designs in vinyl, wood and block windows. In addition there are frosted and colored glass blocks that can brighten up a room and add a one of kind style. A family in Cincinnati Ohio put an etched glass block window tree mural into an area that was formerly an inefficient single pane metal picture window in their master bathroom.

Choices in Hurricane Window Protection

Hurricane shutters are the most economical, therefore the most popular solution chosen by homeowners. However, hurricane impact windows and doors are also very popular because of the added benefits of convenience, security enhancement, better energy efficiency, sound proofing and its attractiveness over shutters. The least expensive system is plywood or panels; these offer great protection, but take a great deal of time to install.

Your considerations: Cost, appearance, and convenience (this one is often under estimated).

First, understand what it is your protecting: it's not just the shards of glass from the broken window that are dangerous - having your roof blown off will really get your attention. During a hurricane, the strong wind that blows over your home creates a 'lift' effect on your roof. If a window or door opening is blown open during the storm, this creates an additional upward 'push' on the roof, thus doubling or tripling the lifting effect. This is how roofs are blown off.

Here are the vitals on your choices for hurricane window protection for your home.

Myth Buster- Window Film and a little info on Impact Windows:

Window film can reduce the sun's damaging rays into your home and it is promoted to be a theft deterrent. It may also very well reduce the chance for shards of glass to go flying through your home in the event of a hurricane, but do you really think slapping a thin piece of film on your existing windows is going to keep your roof on in the event of a hurricane? By comparison, impact windows are almost three times as thick as regular window glass. Hurricane windows are made up of two layers of glass and sandwiched between these layers of glass is a strong tear resistant interlayer (film) that keeps the glass together in the event it is broken. They are much like the windshield of automobiles.

A key factor in the strength of impact windows is how the glass & interlayer are VERY securely attached to a reinforced frame (both mechanically and through the use of industrial adhesives) so the impact glass does NOT detached even under extreme pressure. The goal is to establish hurricane window protection for all openings (whether one does this through the use of hurricane shutters or impact windows, or a combination of the two) and keep the openings sealed so as to not cause a change in pressure inside the home thus blowing off the roof. The idea of putting hurricane window film on a regular window with its lightweight frame and expecting it to even remotely resemble a Miami-Dade approved impact window is ridiculous. Yes, it would be better than nothing, but your money would be better spent on plywood.

Plywood Shutters ($2 - $4 / sq. ft.):

A popular and effective choice, installing plywood shutters to fit snugly inside the window or door frame is an efficient and affordable option for homeowners. These shutters were effective even in the highest winds of Hurricane Andrew, and are relatively easy to install. If you are going to use this method, the plywood needs to be 5/8" to 3/4" thick, and since it takes a lot of time to prepare, it should be cut to size way before we have a storm bearing down on us.

Positives:

Most inexpensive of all hurricane protective systems Strong and can provide excellent protection

Negatives:

Require storage, but can be stacked Heavy and difficult to handle, hanging may require more than one person Require the most time to install Not a safe option for 2 story homes

Storm Prep: 20 - 25 minutes per window (if pre-cut); 5 to 8 hours for an average home

Storm panel hurricane shutters ($5 - $8 / sq. ft.):

Another popular and effective choice, these hurricane shutters are typically steel or aluminum corrugated panels that attach to the walls around windows and doors. There are several mounting methods using either pre-mounted tracks and bolts or just bolts.

Positives:

Most inexpensive of the 'permanent' hurricane shutter systems Strong and can provide excellent protection Can be installed by a handy DIY

Negatives:

Require storage, but can be stacked Can be heavy and difficult to handle, hanging may require more than one person Time consuming - other than plywood, these require the 2nd most time to install Have sharp edges - can be dangerous Not a convenient option for 2 story homes

Storm Prep: 15 - 20 minutes per window; 4 to 6 hours for an average home

Accordion Hurricane Shutters ($15 - $18 / sq. ft.):

Accordion hurricane shutters are attached directly to your home at the window or door opening, folded up when they are not in use and easily unfolded, accordion-style when you need to cover and protect the opening during a storm.

Positives:

Easily deployable by one person when they are needed. Permanently attached next to the window, don't require storage. Some can be locked and may be used as a theft deterrent.

Negatives:

Bulky and not attractive. Seriously consider aesthetics before purchasing these. More mechanical parts, so may require more maintenance than other devices.

Storm Prep: 30 minutes for an entire home

Colonial and Bahama Hurricane Shutters ($18 - $28 / sq. ft.):

These are louvered hurricane shutters that attach directly to the wall beside or above the windows

Positives:

Permanently attached next to, or above the window, don't require storage. Easily deployable by one person when they are needed. Since they are decorative they can beautify the home as well as protect it.

Negatives:

Cannot be used as protection for doors, must be combined with another system. Designs and style may limit their use.

Storm Prep: 30 minutes to an hour for an entire home

Roll-Down Hurricane Shutters ($35 - $55 / sq. ft.):

These hurricane shutters attach permanently above the window in an enclosed box when they are not in use and roll down, either manually with a hand crank or electronically by motor, when you need them.

Positives:

Permanently attached next to, or above the window, don't require storage. Easily deployable by one person when they are needed. Since they can be locked, they make an excellent theft deterrent.

Negatives:

One of the most expensive systems. Requires a battery backup so they can be operated during power outages.

Storm Prep: Minimal, easiest of the hurricane shutter systems

Impact Windows ($40 - $55+ / sq. ft.):

Hurricane impact windows can withstand hurricane debris and completely eliminate the need for hurricane shutters. It costs more to retrofit an existing home, but is most cost effective if a homeowner is considering replacing old windows anyway. This is the most value added of the hurricane window protection systems, since impact windows also improve energy efficiency, are an excellent theft deterrent, provide sound deadening from outside noises, as well as give your home hurricane window protection in the event of a storm. Further, adding new impact windows is likely to increase the value of your home, more so than with any of the other hurricane protective systems.

Positives:

Eliminates the need for hurricane shutters Great for people with 2nd homes- the home is hurricane ready all the time. Excellent theft deterrent, nearly impossible to break through the glass. Added value of sound deadening & energy efficiency over regular windows.

Negatives:

Like roll-down shutters, this is one of the most expensive systems.

Storm Prep: NONE

CONCLUSION:

Keep in mind that if the aesthetics of shutters is bothering you, but the cost of impact windows is nearly out of reach, you can always combine the two. Install impact windows on the front, and possibly the sides of your home. Then protect the window openings that are cannot be seen from the street with shutters.

And don't underestimate the hassle of installing shutters every time there is a hurricane warning. I frequently go out to do estimates for impact windows on homes that have shutter panels because the homeowner is tired of dealing with installing them.

Finally, if your existing windows are in need of replacement because they are old, I encourage you to retrofit them with impact windows since the cost difference between non-impact windows with hurricane shutters versus only impact windows is marginal.

Once you have narrowed your choices to what type of hurricane window protection system is best for your situation, talk to an expert to help you in your final selection. Depending on which of the above systems best suits you, be it hurricane shutters or impact windows, there are many different style choices, and manufacturers who offer different options. Window contractors are your best experts. How to find one? Ideally, get one who is referred to you by a family member, neighbor or a friend. If they have done a good job for them, this person can provide you with a wealth of knowledge that has been learned over the years. If you must select a contractor you find online, check out their references (at least 5), call them, and go look at the contractor's work.

Glass Block Window Sizes For Basements, Bathrooms, and Buildings - 4 Steps For Success

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When sizing a glass block window panel you need to throw out the old saying "measure twice and cut once." With an interior or exterior block window project you need to measure twice and don't cut at all (this is because you can't slice through a block and have it retain it's structural integrity and energy efficiency properties). Although determining the size of the block glass window does require skill and knowledge, it does not take a neurosurgeon to figure this stuff out. In this article you'll learn the 4 step process to get the correct window size, system, pattern, color and options for your needs and tastes.
Step 1) Where do you want to use the block window? What material is (or will be surrounding) surrounding the window opening?
o Will your glass block window be used in a lower level basement, a 1st floor garage or commercial building, or a 2nd floor bathroom window that is 20 foot to the sill? If you're putting the window on the lower level you can generally make the window panel larger since you won't have to be lifting it in the air (most basement windows tend to use anywhere from 8 to 15 blocks in a pre-assembled section - weighing from 50 lbs. to 90 lbs per section). Most second floor bathroom windows tend to use 12 to 24 blocks so you might want to select a thinner block thickness (either 2" or 3 1/8") so the panel is lighter and easier to install.
o The surrounding materials the window panel will be set in (also called the head - or top, jambs - or side, or sill - or bottom) are also important. If you're doing a basement foundation window that will be set inside a masonry wall made of concrete block, sandstone, or poured concrete you may want to size your block window using a mortar joint (to match up with your surrounding masonry materials) vs. a silicone jointing process for the window. For a bathroom window inside of a wood framed opening the silicone vinyl framed glass block window system might be preferred because this window is lighter (usually built with 2" thick blocks) and easier to set, making an upper level installation safer.
Step 2) Measuring an existing opening or determining the size you'd like to create a new opening
o To replace an existing window you start by measuring the opening first. When measuring an existing masonry opening for block basement windows or upper floor windows you usually want to measure assuming the frame will be removed (this happens about 90% of the time), from side to side, and from the top of the sill to the top of the header plate. The block window will need to be sized smaller than this opening remembering that you can't cut the glass, or as my Dad used to say fit 10 lbs of you know what into a 5 lb. bag. For upper floor frame openings you usually will measure the area inside of the frame after the window sashes would be removed to size your window.
o Creating a new opening for a block window If you're creating a new opening for a block window you want to begin with the end in mind. Choose your specific block window system, pattern, design, and/or colors and find out from your glass block window manufacturer what size the window panel will be after it's manufactured. Then you'll create your opening usually about ½" larger than the size of the panel (for example if the glass panel size is 40" x 40" you'll want to create your rough opening to be 40 ½" x 40 ½").
Step 3) Choose a glass block window system and select your pattern, design, air vent, colors, and block sizes.
o Block window panels can be made either with or without a frame. For existing basement windows in masonry openings a frameless block window is more cost effective, can be mortared in place, and is usually the way to go. The frameless window panels can be joined together either with mortar or silicone. The advantage of the mortared windows is they are harder to break in through and match most foundations. The advantage of the siliconed windows are they are smaller in size when pre-assembled together (which works well for tighter fitting openings), lighter, and have an all glass look.

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o For upper level frame openings a vinyl framed block window can be an excellent choice since these windows are available in different frame colors and can be installed just like a standard replacement window. For openings you are creating, or can modify the size of, this is the way to go.
o There are a wide selection of block sizes, patterns, design possibilities, air ventilation products, and colors for your windows. A brief overview is presented below:
o Sizes and thicknesses of glass blocks - Glass masonry units are made is both metric and American sizes. Most of the blocks available in the United States are American sized. The American sized blocks are available in 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8", 8" x 8", 12" x 12" and specialty shapes to turn corners or radiuses if you're looking to create a bay or bow block window. The blocks have nominal sizes meaning the actual size of the block units is ¼" smaller allowing for a mortar joint (a 6" x 6" block actually measuring 5 ¾" x 5 3'4"). There are 3 available thicknesses - 2", 3 1/8", and 4" thick. Thinner blocks are lighter and generally easier for someone less experienced to work with.
o Patterns, designs and colored glass blocks - Blocks come in a multitude of patterns providing different levels of privacy, style, security, and energy efficiency. The block are now available in standard and custom colors and artistically decorated murals to match any interior design style. Check out a comprehensive block web site to see the possibilities.
o Air ventilation and acrylic block windows - Glass block windows are available with vinyl air vents, dryer vents, or power exhaust fans. There are also acrylic block casement and awning windows that give you the look and feel of real block with the ability to open completely as well.
Step 4) Don't worry about any of the first 3 steps and call a glass block window manufacturer and installation professional - If you really don't want to figure out what size window you need call a block specialty company who offers design, fabrication and installation services. This type of company will usually come to your home or business (without a charge), measure your openings, figure out the right window size, and install it for you with a guarantee.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York. These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks. Mike can be reached at the following:

How Can Window Shutters Create A New Modern Window Appeal That Will Match Any Window Treatment Decor

Window treatments can transform a room into a cozy warm and inviting place where friends and family can get together to relax and have fun. One of the most popular forms of window treatments are window shutters. Window shutter treatments come in many different styles and materials. There are also many different ways that they can be installed. The most chosen method of installation is inside of the window frame itself, or you can use a window strip and place it on the outside of the window frame.
Window shutters can be purchased as a single shutter that opens much like a window blind or you can purchase a two-panel shutter that opens from side to side. There are several other choices of window shutters that you can choose from to make your room into warm and cozy room, however it is important that you take into consideration the size of your room and the size of your windows to insure that the look is right for your room, with window shutter treatments, you can control the amount of light that comes into the room. Another option for window shutter treatments is shutters that have four panels. This insures total privacy especially late at night. They also can block out some of the noise that occurs on a daily basis. The best feature about window shutter treatments is that they come in so many different styles that you will have a difficult time choosing which is best for you. If you have odd shaped windows, or more than one window in a row, it is possible to order window shutter treatments to adjust for each window. By simply adding a divider rail, you can add as many shutters as you choose to cnmplete the look of your room.
Choosing the right window shutter
Among the many types of window shutters that are available today, louvers are a very popular choice. A louver is a window shutter that has horizontal slats instead of vertical. They start at one and one-quarter inch slats and can go as big as four and a half inches. It is important to remember that the size of the slats in your shutters controls the amount of light that enters the room. Louvers are typically made of polymer or wood. Both of these types of louvers add beauty and elegance to any room.
· Wooden shutters can also add beauty and elegance to a room. They are usually made of pine, however, they can be purchased in cherry or oak wood. You can purchase wooden shutters as unfinished, to stain and match the room that you are decorating. Wooden shutters can also be purchased in pre-painted basic colors that you can hang or even stencil patterns on. They are very durable, and can improve the overall quality of your home.
· Vinyl window shutters are made of polymers that allow them to last longer and makes them more durable. They resist mold and mildew that is caused by moisture. They are perfect for areas such as bathrooms because of their high resistance to moisture properties and are easier to clean then all other types of window shutters. Vinyl window shutters do not warp and clean up with a damp cloth.
Although window shutters come in all a lot of different colors and styles, they only come in three different styles however each has their own characteristics. These styles are plantation shutters, vertical louver shutters, and café shutters.
Three basic types of louvered shutters
1. Plantation shutters are designed to give your windows proportion and usually start at two and a half inches wide and go up to four and a half inches wide. They can add a decorative unique look to your room.
2. Vertical louver shutters can be found in homes and businesses everywhere. They add an air of sophistication and elegance to any room. Vertical louver shutters start at about one and a quarter inches wide and range up to twelve inches wide. They compliment any room.
3. Although a café window shutter is considered a type of shutter, it is really only a type of installation. A café shutter is designed to cover only a portion of the window, and is an excellent addition to any window. They will enhance any room that they are installed in.

Top 10 Things to Consider BEFORE Selecting a Replacement Window

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was passed and signed into law in February of 2009. Homeowners are now being generously rewarded with a tax rebate incentive of up to $1,500.00 if they make qualifying environmentally-friendly improvements to their homes by the December 31, 2010 deadline. The proverbial legislative ink had barely dried, as window manufacturers far and wide seemingly materialized out of obscurity. Suddenly, everybody and their uncle was now nobly boarding the energy-savings bandwagon, offering window deals of a lifetime. Promises were made, guaranteed to slash fuel bills, while rescuing Mother Earth from a certain impending doom. Naturally, our green inner child aspires to do our fair share in preserving our environment... not to mention our wallets. Saving a bundle on utility costs and receiving a bundle back from Uncle Sam seemed like a delightful no-brainer for many thousands. For them, wasting valuable time and money by putting off needed home improvements was simply no longer an option. Thousands of others, however, remained skeptical and are still putting off the inevitable. Perhaps they just aren't convinced that their windows really need replacing. Or maybe, they just don't know which window company to trust or even where to begin. If you fall into this latter category, then stay tuned. Saving money, saving the environment, and collecting a whopping $1,500.00 reward are good things; very good things. That said, there are a plethora of potential pitfalls lurking on the horizon if we consider energy-efficiency while neglecting everything else. Therefore, I've listed what I regard as the top 10 most important things to consider BEFORE selecting a replacement window. I encourage homeowners to use this article as a checklist prior to getting an estimate on replacement windows. 1. REPUTATION OF COMPANY/PROBLEMS WITH START-UP COMPANIES Though there are many fine reputable window manufacturers to choose from, homeowners also need to beware of start-up companies. Of course, all companies were start-up companies at one time. Nevertheless, new figures from InsolvencyJournal.ie reveal that four companies a day went belly up in the first seven months of 2010, up 22% from the same time in 2009. We've seen window companies go out of business, change their names, and reopen. We've seen companies like Republic and Kensington declare bankruptcy, potentially leaving customers holding the bag with worthless warranties and un-serviced windows. We've seen no fewer than 17 major window manufacturing corporations file for Chapter 11 in the last 3 years. A word to the wise: Check out a company's reputation BEFORE spending your hard-earned cash. Exercise caution BEFORE purchasing from a highly leveraged impersonal company or a start-up company. 2. HOW LONG WILL A WINDOW LAST BEFORE YOU NEED TO REPLACE IT? The next thing to consider is how long a window will last. All windows are NOT created equal. Windows run the gamut, from the quality of the glass package to the quality of the framing system. Investing in replacement windows for your home should only be done once. Most windows are only made to last 10 to 20 years. Some cheap windows that go for $150 to $200 may only last for 3 to 5 years. Some manufacturers claim that their windows will last for 50 years or even a lifetime, but they are often unwilling to back those claims in writing. 3. WINDOW WARRANTIES: READ THE FINE PRINT Some manufacturers not only claim that their windows will last a lifetime, but they even back it up with a so-called "Lifetime Warranty." Before you get too impressed, you'd be well-advised to read the fine print. Many so-called lifetime warranties are misleading. Many lifetime warranties refer to the lifetime of the window, not the lifetime of a homeowner. Such a guarantee is virtually meaningless. It's like saying, "I guarantee you that you will stay alive up until the day that you die." Double-talk. Take a few minutes on the Internet and look up "Lifetime Warranty Definition." You'll see what I mean. 4. DON'T GET "FRAMED" WITH FAULTY FRAMES There are a wide variety of window frames to choose from: wood frames, vinyl frames, fiberglass frames, aluminum frames, wood frames covered with aluminum or vinyl, and composite frames.Decisions! Decisions! If you wait until a window salesperson arrives at your doorstep to figure out which frame is best, guess which frame the salesperson will recommend? Naturally, the one his company sells.