As more people realize the benefits of vinyl replacement windows, we are now seeing a greater selection of vinyl window types. The most popular are the UPVC and the aluminium. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, vinyl can be installed with ease, is easy to maintain and can be considered more energy efficient than other materials such as aluminium. The only real disadvantage of using vinyl is that it is now so popular that there is now a vast range of products produced using vinyl. The reason for this is because it is cheap to produce, durable and is widely available. There is a misconception that only the rich and famous install vinyl or even that it is a waste of money. This is simply not true. Aluminium is probably the best-known material for DIY project windows, but a PVC or aluminium window can also be purchased ready made and fitted for a great deal less than a comparable aluminium one. One of the key things to remember about window replacement however is that it is a rigid material. It is therefore better to use a high quality vinyl and ensure that it has been cut properly and sanded to a proper degree of thickness. Also check that the cut edges have been squared off to ensure they are straight and that the seams are accurately sewn. A little care will go a long way in ensuring that your installation is a success and that you have purchased a product that will last for years to come. Many suppliers offer a lifetime guarantee on their products as part of their standard contract. Another thing to bear in mind when comparing vinyl and aluminium is that both require a certain amount of cleaning. When dealing with aluminium you will need to use a primer before painting or treating it with any liquid as this will significantly reduce the chemical component of the finish. Similarly, a simple wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust will do the job. If you are using a vinyl window treatment, simply wiping it down with a clean cloth will remove the majority of dust and dirt. Another key factor when comparing aluminium and vinyl is that both are prone to flammability. Vinyl is actually far more flammable than its aluminium counterpart and it is important to consider this when installing. If you are having work carried out on an air source heating system, vinyl may actually increase the risk of damage. Aluminium though is relatively less likely to ignite when exposed to fire. As with all types of installation, it is always best to seek professional advice before commencing. This ensures that you are choosing the best materials for your particular application and that your chosen company has the knowledge and expertise to deal with the task. Never undertake a DIY project without the necessary tools and equipment. As with all DIY projects, it is also important to take into account weather conditions and other factors which may affect the success of your window replacement. So whether you are looking to replace an entire window, a section or a single wall it is important to get all the facts from your chosen company so that your installation is a success.
Why Compare Window Types?
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11 Types of Checking Accounts11 Types of Checking Accounts
Checking accounts allow you to access and withdraw your funds. Unlike savings accounts, they don’t have a limit. Some checking accounts can also bear interest, granted that you keep to the minimum balance requirement.
However, there many types of checking accounts. If you plan to open a checking account, you may want to know where to put your money’s worth.
This article will explore what to consider in a checking account and the types available in banks and credit unions. By the time you have finished this article, we hope to have given you a clearer picture of your choice.
6 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Checking Account
Not all checking accounts are made equal. When opening a checking account, you must consider factors related to your situation and the account in question. For example, can you keep up with its minimum balance requirement? Do you pay taxes online? Your checking account must fit your lifestyle and finances.
Below are six factors you must consider before opening a type of checking account.
CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY
Your lifestyle must coincide with the features of your checking account.
Do you prefer to shop online or through physical stores? Do you prefer to make bill payments online or at physical locations? If you’re in a place that doesn’t have a lot of branches or ATMs, consider their online platform. Are their mobile app and website easy to use?
AVERAGE MONTHLY BALANCE
Some checking accounts will charge a monthly maintenance fee if you don’t maintain a minimum balance requirement. Therefore, when choosing an account, check its minimum balance requirement against the average monthly balance you can maintain.
Setting up a direct deposit can help you avoid maintenance fees. When your paycheck automatically goes to your checking account, it can offset any reductions on your funds.
CHECKING ACCOUNT FEES
Beyond monthly maintenance fees, some banks charge service fees such as in-branch transactions, ATM use, and overdrafts. By knowing the fees a checking account can have, you can avoid unnecessary penalties. However, as mentioned before, some banks will waive these if you maintain their balance requirement.
REWARDS
Check the rewards and benefits of the checking account. Do they offer refunds from big stores, cash back, or exclusive deals? When you check their balance requirements and charges, are the rewards worth the account for you?
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Do you prefer personalized service? Or do you prefer to be up-sold to better and higher products and services? If you prefer personalized service, consider opening a checking account with a credit union.
Credit unions are smaller and more familiar with their customers and financial situations. Since they are non-profit, they answer to members and not to shareholders. However, banks have better email, chat, and phone customer service technologies.
SCREEN THE ACCOUNT’S TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Reading the account’s terms and conditions before opening a checking account is reasonable. But, truthfully, not all of us have the time. If you’re opening an account online, you can use websites that will read the terms and conditions and summarize them for you.
Or you can install their extensions. Terms of Service Didn’t Read is currently the best website for it. TOSback also tracks updates on the terms and conditions of organizations.
The Types of Checking Accounts
Checking accounts from different banks and credit unions vary in features. Some may have higher interest rates. Others can have limitations due to the customer’s overdraft history. Others are designed for seniors and young adults. Below are the types of checking accounts in a bank or credit union near you.
TRADITIONAL CHECKING ACCOUNT
Best for: people paying bills or doing online shopping and other debit transactions.
The traditional checking account is a great start for creating a reliable foundation for your money.
This type of account gives you checks you can write. They also give you a Debit or ATM card to deposit and withdraw money. Your card is also convenient for moneyless shopping. Furthermore, your traditional checking account allows you to pay your bills online.
You can also opt for overdraft protection if you make emergency purchases beyond your balance.
Some checking accounts give you dividends. But they may be little, although credit union checking accounts have higher interest rates than banks.
Some checking accounts come with a monthly maintenance fee. However, some banks and credit unions will waive this fee if you meet certain requirements, such as maintaining a minimum daily balance.
PREMIUM CHECKING ACCOUNT
Best for: People with a five-figure balance or more.
Premium checking accounts require a high minimum balance. In return, you avoid other fees and charges. You also get better perks, rewards, and freebies.
This type of checking account can earn slightly higher interest than the traditional one. However, if you aim to invest, other accounts, such as the money market and certificate of deposit, may be better for you.
STUDENT CHECKING ACCOUNT
Best for: Students aged 18-23
The student checking account is a great start for young adults to get their first bank account. It’s similar to a traditional checking account. But it is designed for a young adult’s needs and situations, such as having lesser fees and grace periods for overdrafts.
When getting a student checking account, read the conditions that will happen once you pass the age limit. Some banks would automatically switch it to the traditional bank account, where you will have increased fees or lose some of the benefits.
SENIOR CHECKING ACCOUNT
Best for: People aged 55 or 60 and older.
The senior checking account is for retired people or those living on a fixed income. The account has no monthly maintenance fees and has perks designed for seniors.
However, even if you fit the age requirement, keep in mind your financial goals. Other types of accounts may suit your needs, even if this one is marketed for your age.
INTEREST-BEARING ACCOUNT
Best for: People with a large maintaining balance.
An interest-bearing account gives small monthly returns. The interest can be flat regardless of your balance. The account can also pay more the higher your balance.
The interest-bearing account can be competitive with a savings account but without withdrawal limits. However, check if its fees cancel the interest significantly for you. If you cannot cover the charges, look for checking accounts that give monthly dividends instead.
BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT
Best for: Business owners
The business checking account comes with business tools. The tools can include cash management services, online invoicing, and more.
This type of account can also offer freebies, such as writing several checks for free or getting a return base on your balance.
REWARDS CHECKING
Best for: People who often use debit cards.
A rewards checking account rewards you for your debit card transactions. Whether it’s part of your job or part of your lifestyle, your account rewards you with refunds, cash back, and discounts. Do consider the account’s required minimum, fees, and cap limitations.
PRIVATE BANK CHECKING
Best for: People looking for a private banker
A private bank checking account is managed by your private banker. A private banker helps only one customer with their banking needs. It is similar to a premium checking account but has higher rewards, such as lower loan rates and a free safe deposit box. It also has higher minimum balance requirements.
SECOND-CHANCE CHECKING
Best for: People denied of the traditional checking account
If a person has a history of closed checking accounts due to overdrafts, banks can refuse them from opening one again. The second-chance checking account is given to them instead.
This type of account can have monthly fees. However, if you can maintain your balance for a year or more, they can convert it to a traditional checking account.
FREE CHECKING ACCOUNTS
Best for: People who don’t want balance requirements and monthly maintenance fees.
A free checking account has no minimum balance requirement and no monthly maintenance fees. That said, they can have other fees. Some banks and credit unions offer free checking accounts with a return, like the Kasasa High-Dividend Cash Checking Account.
LOW-BALANCE CHECKING ACCOUNTS
Best for: People who can only maintain a low balance minimum requirement.
A low-balance checking account is for people who need banking services but can only maintain a small balance requirement. This type of account can have limitations and requirements, such as only having only online transactions and preventing you from overdrafts.
Which Type of Checking Account is For You?
When choosing a checking account, you must consider your convenience and certain features. What minimum balance can you afford? Do you agree with the fees? Are the rewards something you have use of?
Beyond that, there are diverse accounts to cover each individual’s different needs. There are student accounts for young adults and even senior accounts for those who have retired. There are even accounts that allow you to invest. From the types of checking accounts above, which one suits your needs the most?
By now, you may already know what account you want. See our checking accounts to see if they suit you.
To learn more, please check out Canopy Credit Union
How to prepare for a school trip to Union City, NJHow to prepare for a school trip to Union City, NJ
When I first got the news that my kids would be going to Union City, NJ, I was ecstatic! This was the kind of city where my mom grew up, and it seemed like a magical place to bring children. As it turns out, this trip isn’t so magical after all. There are a few things you need to know before you book a vacation in Union City, NJ.
Union City is a town in Hudson County, New Jersey. The area is best known for being the home of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Fort Lee. The borough has a population of just over 40,000 people and is located directly across the river from Manhattan. The main street of Union City is called Washington Street.
The town was originally settled by Dutch settlers, but later became the site of a major military fort. In 1656, the city was named “Vanderheyden” by the Dutch, and by 1659, the city was renamed “Voorheydens” to honor the first Mayor of the city, Adriaen Van der Heyden. In 1874, the city was officially incorporated as the Borough of Union City.
Union City is a great place to bring children. It is the home of the Union City Public Library, which has an extensive collection of children’s books. You can also find many of the toys and games that were popular in the 1920s and 1930s. You can take the Staten Island Ferry from lower Manhattan to Union City. It will take you 30 minutes, and there is a small museum on board.
There are plenty of activities to do while you are in Union City. The Hudson River Museum is located right in the heart of the city and has two floors of exhibits about the history of Union City. The museum features a huge collection of artifacts and photographs. The Hudson River Museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. You can also get a free tour of the city from the staff on the second floor of the museum.
Another fun activity to do in Union City is to take the ferry to Governors Island. The island is part of the National Park Service and is the site of the original Fort Columbus. You can also see the Statue of Liberty, which is actually located on Liberty Island. The ferry leaves from Battery Park in Manhattan and takes about 45 minutes.
You can also go to the Hoboken Historical Museum. The museum is located in the old train station and is filled with historical items from the area. The Hoboken Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. You can also take the Staten Island Ferry to Hoboken for a trip around the Statue of Liberty. The ferry leaves from Battery Park in Manhattan and takes about 45 minutes.
If you are looking for more history, head to the Hudson River Museum. It has many exhibits about the history of Union City, as well as exhibits about the Hudson River. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. You can also get a free tour of the city from the staff on the second floor of the museum.
Union City is a wonderful place to bring children. If you are looking for something that’s a bit more unique, I’d recommend taking the ferry to Governors Island.