Reasons to Replace Your Windows

#1 : Give Your Home a Facelift

Your home is your most important asset and your largest investment. Window and doors are one of the top choices when considering exterior renovations for your home.

#2 : Lower Energy Bills

Heating and cooling costs are two of the main expenses of keeping your home comfortable. Replacing old and/or drafty windows with new, high efficiency windows can have a big impact on your energy bills. Choosing our windows can save you an average of 8% on your energy bills as compared to a standard window.

#3 : Lower Maintenance

Modern PVC windows are made with stable, durable materials which can last for decades. These types of windows are essentially zero-maintenance, apart from the occasional cleaning or the lubrication of operator hardware.

#4 : Increased Safety

If your windows are damaged or are faulty and get stuck in either the open or closed position, it’s definitely time for replacement windows.

#5 : Reduce Noise

Newer windows are more efficient when it comes to noise protection because the technology used is newer and the sealing in, and around the window is better. As well Exterior noise is transferred through windows that don’t close properly.

Why vinyl

Here are 5 advantages of using vinyl.

Energy efficient

The outstanding thermal performance of vinyl makes it a desirable material for homeowners, There are the energy efficiency inherent in vinyl windows: Low-E glass, warm-edge spacers and a high number of air chambers within the frame.

Even within the category of vinyl windows, energy efficiency ratings can vary wildly depending on the manufacturer, glazing, insulation and more. That’s why it’s important to look for the key metrics such as U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and energy rating.

Low maintains

Vinyl is renowned for its easy upkeep. Whereas materials such as wood require lots of touch-ups due to fading, splintering or rotting, Vinyl can endure season after season of harsh weather without needing to be repainted or repaired.

Attractive

Advances in technology are continually adding to the design possibilities for vinyl windows, At Vinyl-Pro are durable, fade-resistant colours for windows. As well it allows for seamless matching with interiors and exteriors of all styles.

Durable

A lead-free uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) compound material gives windows resistance to impact, moisture and discoloration, and ensures they won’t crack, warp or blister. As a result vinyl windows will continue to look and perform like new, year after year, in all kinds of climates.

Affordable

Compared to other window materials such as wood and fiberglass, vinyl is a cost-effective option for both new construction and replacement projects.

Levels of humidity are ideal in my home.

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Levels of humidity are ideal in my home.

The human body is most comfortable at humidity levels between 20% and 50%.

The warmer the air the more water it can hold. This phenomenon is called ‘relative humidity’. Relative humidity is a way of describing how much humidity is present in the air, compared to how much there could be. The amount of humidity air can hold is relative to its temperature. Fog as an example, happens when the relative humidity of cooler air is 100%. As the temperature increases the fog dissipates because the warmer air can hold / hide the moisture. Science lesson over…

The table shows the recommended indoor humidity levels in relation to the outdoor temperature. As a result, you should lower the relative humidity levels in your home during the cold winter months.

What about condensation on the outside of my windows?

What about condensation on the outside of my windows?

Homeowners who have highly energy-efficient windows may notice condensation forming on the outside of their windows under certain weather conditions. This question is often asked by homeowners who have highly energy-efficient windows. This usually occurs in late summer and early fall when the night time temperature drops several degrees – much like dew forming early in the morning.

The moisture on the outside of the window is condensation. It will soon evaporate when outside temperature rises. As we know, condensation happens on cold surfaces. During the night, if the outside temperature drops below the dew point then condensation forms. The fact that the condensation is forming on the windows means that very little heat from inside the house is escaping through the windows. That’s a good thing and proof that you have energy-efficient windows.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for the installation?

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for the installation?

There are just a few things you’ll want to know.

  • Someone must be home to let our installers into to your home.
  • Make space available in your driveway if at all possible so our driver can park close to your house.
  • Clear furniture from the area near the location where your new windows and doors will be installed. Our installers will be happy to help you upon their arrival if you’re unable to clear the area beforehand, but we cannot be held responsible for any damages.
  • Remove all window treatments from the windows including blinds, shades, curtains, etc.
  • Turn off security systems if applicable.

How to Clean Windows

How to Clean Windows

GLASS

When cleaning either side of the glass, you can use any standard glass cleaner or mild detergent. Take care when scrubbing around the frame and glazing to avoid damage. For best results, use paper towel or a soft cloth that is clean and free of lint or other potentially abrasive materials.

Cleaning glass in direct sunlight can cause the cleaner to dry too quickly and leave an unsightly residue, so you will achieve better results working in cloudy or shady conditions.

VINYL

Vinyl windows don’t require painting or touch-ups, but they will benefit from occasional cleaning with a mild cleansing agent such as warm soapy water. Avoid using abrasive materials or a high-pressure washer, which could cause damage to the vinyl surface.

SCREEN

To clean your window screens, you can simply spray them down with a hose at low or medium water pressure. A mild soap and sponge or soft brush should allow you to remove any dirt or debris that has built up. When your screens are clean, be sure to rinse away the cleaning agent and wipe them down with a soft cloth or paper towel before reinstalling in the window.

How to choose windows

How to choose windows

A comparison of the different types of windows will reveal certain advantages and disadvantages for each one, but ultimately the decision should come down to what makes sense for the room. Although your options might be limited by the size or shape of the existing window opening, You’ve still got a lot of choice.

Awning windows

Often it’s the function of the room that will determine which type of window works best. Awning windows, for example, provide lots of ventilation while protecting the interior from wet weather, making them ideal for bathrooms.

Casement windows

Casement windows are popular choices for kitchens because of the same need for ventilation. It’s easy to operate the crank even if you have to reach over the sink, and the larger opening provides lots of natural light.

Double hung windows

Double hung windows, a traditional style often used to maintain the rich aesthetic of older homes, are well suited to most climates, but can lead to higher rates of air infiltration in excessively windy areas. Even with two sashes, though, double hung windows can be highly efficient if they are well made and properly installed. The use of warm-edge spacers and dual or triple glazed windows filled with insulating gas can also compensate for air leakage between sashes.

Sliding and hung windows

For rooms adjacent to confined or high-traffic areas such as walkways and patios, an inward-opening window offers the ideal mix of beauty and practicality. Sliding and hung windows are some of the most popular choices here because they still allow for air circulation and easy cleaning without infringing on your outdoor space.

For more advice on how to choose the perfect windows for your home, speak to us.

ENERGY SAFE

ENERGY SAFE

What you should know about energy safe.

U-FACTOR / U-VALUE

U-factor, sometimes called U-value, is a measurement of a product’s resistance to heat loss. Windows with a lower U-factor provide better insulation, meaning they don’t let as much heat escape as windows with a higher U-factor. Choosing windows with a low U-factor, since you won’t have to compensate for heat loss by running your heating system as high or as often.

SOLAR HEAT GAIN COEFFICIENT (SHGC)

Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) refers to the amount of solar radiation transmitted through a window and into a home or building. SHGC will appear as a number between 0 and 1, with a lower number indicating that the window transmits less solar heat.

Low-E glass typically reduces solar heat gain with its protective coating, which can help control air conditioning use during the summer.

VISIBLE TRANSMITTANCE (VT)

Expressed as a percentage, visible transmittance refers to the amount of visible light allowed to pass through a window. A lower number means less light will enter the home or building. This is typically the result with Low-E glass windows, which use a special coating to reduce solar heat gain.

AIR LEAKAGE

Air leakage is a measurement of the amount of air that passes through cracks in a window. A higher rate of air leakage indicates the window is more susceptible to heat loss and gain, which reduces energy efficiency and interior comfort.

ENERGY RATING (ER)

This figure captures the overall energy-efficiency score of a window. It encompasses all factors for a more convenient way to compare products. The standards for energy ratings vary, a window must have a minimum energy rating of 25 in zone 1, 29 in zone 2 and 34 in zone 3.

Short question-answer blog:

Can I get new windows during the winter?

The winter months are actually a great time to get new windows installed and we provide our services year-around.

How long does an installation take?

The time required to complete the installation will depend on the number of windows you’re having replaced. Typically, the projects are completed within one day. Call us to get a time estimation specific to your job before we begin.

Vinyl windows are a good option

Vinyl windows are a good option.

Vinyl windows are incredibly popular because of all their benefits:

 – energy efficiency and great durability;

 – economical and virtually free of maintenance as they won’t need re-painted or stained;

– moisture-resistant and won’t crack, peel, or fade.

They are for best performance because they (including our windows) are made from high-quality virgin powder vinyl.