Have you heard about the latest trend in setting goals and/or making resolutions for the year? You may have seen articles, blog posts, Twitter hashtags about this phenomenon — “the one word resolution” or #oneword.
Basically, you identify one word that describes what you would like to accomplish throughout the year. The idea is that — by focusing on one idea or theme — you will have more success in making the change you are looking for.
At EuroLine, the theme is “Passive”. Now, you might think “passive” is a strange theme for a company to adopt — but EuroLine has a Passion for Passive.
Our choice of the word “Passive”, centres around the Passive House building standard, which we believe to be the building standard that Canada will adopt in the not-too-distant future. The City of Vancouver is already well on its way, allowing relaxations for Passive House buildings.
Our ThermoPlus™ PHC window system was recently certified by the Passive House Institute in Darmstadt, Germany as a Passive House Component. We are currently the only company in Canada manufacturing a Passive House certified product. We are thrilled by this achievement, and we are resolute in our commitment to developing more products that meet the stringent Passive House requirements.
We will be focusing on our #oneword, working to increase awareness of the Passive House standard, manufacturing products that meet these standards, and provide you, our customers, with the best high-performance window systems to reduce your energy costs and keep you cozy in the winter and cool in the summer.
We’re all in the Christmas spirit around here these days. Since the beginning of December, we’ve been all about the holidays. We’ve had sugar cookies, candy canes, chocolate and our company dinner!
Of course, it goes without saying that we’ve all been singing, humming or just listening to carols and Christmas songs all throughout the office — so it isn’t too surprising that we came up with our own version of a Christmas classic.
We hope you enjoy it!
The Twelve Windows (& Doors) of Christmas
(Sung to the tune of The 12 Days of Christmas)
On the first day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
a unique door for my entry
On the second day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the third day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the fourth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the fifth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the sixth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the seventh day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
seven doors a-folding
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the eighth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
eight shutters rolling
seven doors a-folding
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the ninth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
nine pleated blinds
eight shutters rolling
seven doors a-folding
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the tenth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
ten archtop dormers
nine pleated blinds
eight shutters rolling
seven doors a-folding
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the eleventh day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
eleven window handles
ten archtop dormers
nine pleated blinds
eight shutters rolling
seven doors a-folding
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
On the twelfth day of Christmas
my builder installed for me:
twelve insect screens
eleven window handles
ten archtop dormers
nine pleated blinds
eight shutters rolling
seven doors a-folding
six casement windows
five tilt & turns
four tilt & glides
three French doors
two bay windows
and a unique door for my entry
PLEASE NOTE:
EuroLine Windows will be closed for the holidays
from Saturday, December 24th, 2016 until Sunday, January 1st, 2017, reopening Monday, January 2nd, 2017.
We wish you a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
Have you ever wondered what living in a Passive House might be like? If you are building or renovating your home, you have probably heard a lot of talk about this and other standards in energy efficient construction. You may be wondering which standard would be best for your project — which one will meet or exceed the latest building code requirements. Better performance and reduced energy usage are goals we all want to attain, but where do you start?
Photo: courtesy of Bernhardt Contracting
From November 11 – 13, 2016, you are invited to attend International Passive House days to discover what a Passive House looks like up close and personal. This three-day event, organized by iPHA, will showcase this building practice with presentations, seminars and guided tours of ultra-low energy homes.
Home owners across the globe will open their homes to the public for a first hand look at the benefits of highly energy efficient houses. Architects and builders will be available to explain how this building method works to lower energy costs, and residents will share their experiences of living in a comfortable, healthy and environmentally friendly home.
There are 18 Passive House homes in British Columbia on display for this event, 11 of them feature EuroLine Windows 4700-series ThermoPlus window system. If you are curious about Passive House and want to see how our windows can help you achieve your energy efficiency requirements, while satisfying your design specifications, come and take a look at a house in your neighbourhood. Find the closest viewing opportunities to you by visiting the iPHA’sdatabase for a searchable list of open houses where you live.
Watch this video from City TV featuring Vancouver’s first certified Passive House, which is one of the homes that will be open for the occasion.
For more information on this event visit iPHA’s website. For information on Passive House in Canada, click here.
Replacing your windows can be a considerable investment and there are lot of misconceptions when it comes to this kind of undertaking. But don’t worry, we’ve done some myth busting to help you make the best decisions for your project.
Myth #1: Replacing my windows will mean a major renovation
Fact: Usually windows can be replaced with minimum disturbance to the existing walls, depending on the scope of the replacement project and the condition of your existing frames.
There are two types of installation for replacement windows and doors — a complete tear out, which involves the removal of your old windows including the frame or a retrofit, meaning your new windows or doors are installed into the existing frames.
A complete tear out is usually recommended because an airtight insulated seal between the product and the rough opening can be constructed once the old window and frame are gone.
Myth #2: A window replacement will take weeks, and there’ll be a huge mess to clean up
Fact: Once your new windows have been ordered and made, the actual installation process usually takes a couple of days. A reputable local window company will install your windows properly and efficiently, and will leave your home just as they found it.
Myth #3: I have to replace all of my windows at once
Fact: New vinyl windows are definitely a worthwhile expense, and while it is more cost effective and less hassle to replace them all at once, you can opt to replace them in phases for more convenient budgeting. Think about which windows need replacing first — do you want to update the front of your home or do you have some “leaky” windows that are more urgent to swap out? Your sales consultant can help you plan the best course of action.
Myth #4: I must replace my windows in the summer
Fact: The truth is that you can have your windows replaced at any time of the year. While installing your new windows, your professional installation team will ensure the inside of your home stays dry. After removing the old window, they will install your new window as efficiently as possible to keep air leakage to a minimum.
Tip: If you plan your window replacement for the winter months, you may have a shorter wait time as most people schedule their projects in the summer and fall months.
Myth #5: Replacing my windows won’t make a difference to my home’s overall energy efficiency
Fact: The truth is, windows and doors can account for 30% of your home’s total energy loss. Replacing your old, inefficient windows with new high-performance products will result in lower heating bills and more comfort in your home year-round. Your sales consultant can advise you on the best energy efficient windows, doors and energy-saving options, such as LoE and Argon fills. Ask about ENERGY STAR® windows and doors.
Myth #6: Wood windows are better than uPVC windows
Fact: On average, uPVC or vinyl windows are better than wood. Wood frames can swell or rot, and are prone to mold contamination. They require regular maintenance and painting to keep them in optimum order. Harsh weather can adversely affect the condition and appearance of wood windows.
uPVC windows, on the other hand, are water-resistant, low-maintenance and never need painting. They are easy to clean with a little mild soap and water, and won’t yellow or become brittle over time. Also, uPVC windows have better fire performance than wood windows. Tests have shown that uPVC has a low ignitability, a low flame spread rate, a low heat release rate, and is easy to extinguish if burning.
Of course, a main consideration is the quality of the material itself and the construction of the window, which can vary widely among both uPVC and wood.
Myth #7: I can replace my windows myself — I’ve watched several YouTube tutorials — it looks easy!
Fact: This is, perhaps, the biggest misbelief about window replacement. Professional installers have extensive training and experience when it comes to replacing windows. They have the tools and hands-on expertise needed to do the job quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your windows and doors are level from side to side and top to bottom and that the installation provides an airtight, watertight, insulated seal. Most window companies have their own installers who know their product well, and choosing someone who understands how to properly install your windows and doors will help avoid any problems that might arise.
Looking for more information? Try these bulletins and articles:
Are you a builder, architect, contractor, or developer interested in Passive House technology and practices? Do you know what the criteria for the Passive House standard is? Are you curious about the city of Vancouver’s new zero-emission building plan and what that means for your projects?
This all-day event takes place on Thursday, October 20, 2016 and will feature experts from the fenestration and construction industry sharing their knowledge about Passive House building practices and what they mean for your business and for your clients. Discussions will range from Vancouver’s Zero Emission New Building Plan to Multi Family Passive House Construction.
There will be a tour of our manufacturing facility and our beautiful showroom in Delta, BC. Lunch is included with your ticket and there will ample time for Q&A and mingling with fellow builders, contractors and developers.
This event will be eligible for AIBC credits. Check back for more information.
Tickets are on sale now — Early Bird prices are available for a limited time.
Do you have questions or concerns about your windows? EuroLine’s professional team can help you address all your window issues.
Here are six of the most common questions we hear from our customers.
My vinyl windows have scuffs all over them, what is the best way to clean spots and smudges?
A mixture of mild dish soap and water should be sufficient to clean most dirt and stains from your window frames. Never use abrasive or caustic cleaners as they can cause permanent damage to the frame finish. Always rinse the soap completely with clear water and wipe dry with a damp cloth. For complete details on the best method to clean your window frames and glass surfaces, please refer to: Cleaning and Maintenance of Your Vinyl Windows and Doors.
I’m planning a renovation and I don’t know what kind of windows and doors to choose. Do you have any advice?
There are several different types of windows and doors that you can opt for, depending on the function you need. Do you want to add more light into a room? Are you interested in opening your living space to the outdoors? Is privacy a requirement? Some features to keep in mind are: security, ventilation, ease of operation, and maintenance.
Ask questions. Find out how each type of window and door operates to ensure that you understand the working parts of the various products. Ask about locking mechanisms, basement/bedroom egress requirements, glass options, finishing choices, and accessories. Inquire about the lead time. The more information you have about your choices, the better equipped you will be to make the best decision for your needs. Call us— our showroom is open Monday to Friday and our renovation expert can provide you with more information and helpful advice.
Summer is here and I want to open my windows to let in fresh air, but I don’t feel safe leaving them open — do you have a solution for me?
These tilt & turn systems are designed for secure ventilation, safe cleaning, and fast emergency egress. One easy-to-operate handle moves the multi-point locking hardware into place and locks the window on all sides for higher security and a tighter seal. With the handle in the “turn” position, the sash turns inwards at the side. This position allows for easy cleaning from the interior, rapid cross-ventilation, and quick emergency egress. With the handle in the “tilt” position, the sash tilts inwards at the top, providing draft-free, secure ventilation.
Take a look at our products on our website or come to our showroom to see samples of our products first hand.
I’m considering buying EuroLine windows and doors for my home renovation. Can I have my brother install your products? He’s handy with a hammer.
We recommend using our professional installers to install your new windows and doors. Our installers know our products well, and they understand how to properly install your windows and doors. They have the tools and skill needed to do the job quickly, efficiently and correctly. Remember, proper installation is crucial to the performance of your new windows and doors. Our blog post: 4 Reasons to Use a Professional Window Installer, has more details.
That being said, if your brother – or sister! – feels confident that they are able to install the product properly, we provide detailed instructions for them to follow. Just remember: EuroLine products are very heavy, so get someone to help when necessary!
Help! There is plastic film stuck to my window that I can’t remove — what can I do?
Our window and door products are shipped with a protective film on the profiles that reduces damage from handling and installation. This protective film must be removed upon completion of installation. If the film is left on the product for longer periods, it may bond to the frame material and become very difficult to remove.
Please note:
These instructions are for extruded frames only. Do not attempt on foiled profiles! EuroLine Windows Inc. does not guarantee the effectiveness of the above method. EuroLine Windows Inc. does not recommend using any other method, chemical or solvent to remove the plastic film. Other methods, chemicals or solvents may permanently damage the frame finish or destroy its UV-resistant properties.
I love my new EuroLine windows! Do you have any window treatments with a distinctive style that will complement my décor and help keep my rooms cozy?
We offer specialty window coverings custom made to fit our windows. We have a beautiful line of pleated and honeycomb blinds that are available in a wide range of colours, designs and translucency levels, so you can have the look and feel that best suits your taste.
We also sell a line of manual and motorized rollshutters for energy efficiency, weather protection and added security.
Visit our Products and Options pages for more information and details.
We love to talk about windows and doors! Call or visit us — our professional team can answer all your questions and help you find the best solution to fit your needs.
We all know that buying our food from local sources is good for us and good for our local economy. But why stop at produce? There are many other local goods and services, including windows and doors, that contribute to a vibrant and thriving economy in your community.
EuroLine Windows — Made in BC — Shop local for your windows and doors
Here are 10 reasons to shop locally for windows, doors and other products:
1. Keep your money at home
When you buy from local businesses, you are supporting your friends and neighbours, and more of your money stays where you live. Keeping your money at home promotes growth and helps to create a strong, healthy economic base in your community.
2. You get better service and higher quality products
Locally owned and operated companies rely on your goodwill — they strive to get to know you and keep you happy and satisfied. Their reputations are built upon providing you with excellent service and quality products.
Making a window in our plant in Delta, BC
3. Get hired
Domestic businesses have a vested interest in the success of your community — they are an integral part of it. They are more likely to create and keep jobs for local residents than their big corporation counterparts.
4. Local businesses care about community
Owners of local businesses are often involved in developing key decisions that shape the environment of the community. Since they typically have roots or ties to the area, they have a vested interest in making good decisions for all.
5. Reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability
Small independent, local businesses help to reduce environmental impacts — they tend to have a smaller footprint than larger corporations and so occupy less land. They typically use more locally-made goods in their manufacturing processes, and create less traffic and air pollution because they are usually located closer to their customers.
6. Local businesses give back to their community
Studies show that local businesses support and donate to community and non-profit causes more substantially than non-local businesses.
EuroLine donates windows and doors to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore
7. Local businesses support each other
Local companies tend to purchase goods and services from other local businesses, such as marketing materials, advertising, legal and maintenance.
8. Small, independent companies contribute to the diversity of your community
Local businesses tend to offer more diverse and unique products than big box stores — this helps to establish the distinct character of your community
9. More tax dollars stay in your community
Because small independent companies usually have their main operations located locally, a larger portion of their tax dollars go towards the community’s essential services such as transit, roads and parks.
10. Saves you money
You might think that big-box stores and huge multi-national corporations may offer you the best prices and save you money. You may be surprised at the savings you may see when you buy local. Shopping local can cut costs such as transportation, fuel and shipping. Often these costs savings are transferred over to you, the customer.
EuroLine Windows Inc. is a private Canadian company founded in 1993 as A.N.G. Window Tech Ltd. In 1998, the name was changed to EuroLine Windows Inc. to better reflect the advanced European technology embraced by the company. Our head office and manufacturing facility is located in Delta, BC — in the heart of the Lower Mainland.
Today, EuroLine Windows Inc. is an innovative designer and manufacturer of distinctive windows and doors for private residences and commercial buildings. The company is the largest manufacturer of uPVC tilt & turn windows and doors in North America, with installations throughout North America and countries around the globe.
More information about “Buying Local” can be found at the following links:
It’s summer! Are you dreaming about building a summertime retreat or planning a renovation of your current “home away from home”? A summer hideaway, nestled on the lakefront or near the ocean’s shore, is the ultimate vacation destination — a perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and become one with nature.
When planning a cottage, it is important to consider the placement of the windows and doors, as well as their design. You want your summer home to blend in with your surroundings and take advantage of natural light both for ambience and energy efficiency. Below we have compiled some fundamental ideas and principles of window design to help you plan your vacation retreat.
Daylight
Thinking about building orientation is important for boosting energy efficiency. Ideally, your cottage should be angled east/west* with its longest side facing south. Locating your most frequently used rooms and largest windows on the southern side will maximize the available light and heat energy from the sun, helping to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Using landscaping or an overhang that provides shade will help keep your interior cool during the heat of the day.
Energy Efficiency
Consider the performance needs of your cottage windows. Likely, your vacation home is located in an area where it is exposed to harsh weather conditions. High quality, energy-efficient vinyl windows with high performance glazing are made to keep your cottage (or home) cool during the day and warm at night.
Durability
Your windows need to be strong and durable — able to withstand elements such as wind, rain, and heat. Since it will be vacant for much of the year, you need your doors and windows to keep out would-be intruders. Look for high performance window systems that are steel-reinforced with multi-point locking hardware.
Low Maintenance
Choosing a vinyl window system makes sense for your cottage. Not only are high quality vinyl windows and doors extremely energy efficient, they are low maintenance as well. Vinyl windows never need painting and require only basic maintenance and a little soap and water to keep them operating at peak performance and looking their best.
Design and Style Choice
The style of the windows that you choose is virtually unlimited, but following some basic guidelines may make the choice a little easier. Opting for windows that fit the style and look of your cottage both inside and out is important for a unified look.
For an open feel, choose large windows and/or doors for your living space. French patio door/window combinations work well to provide an open, airy atmosphere, lovely views and maximum daylight.
In your bedrooms and bathrooms, you may want to incorporate textured glass on smaller fixed or awning windows to allow for privacy while still admitting in natural light.
For maximum ventilation, ease of cleaning and quick, safe egress — tilt and turn windows make a great choice for any room.
Call a Professional
Designing a new vacation home or planning a renovation is exciting. You know what you want. Let us help you make your ideas come to life. Come visit our showroomand speak to one of our knowledgeable sales consultants. We can provide you with information on all your options from choosing the best window system, to picking the right style of window and door for every room in your unique cottage, to professional installation and final adjustments.
It’s been a while since we talked about Bernhardt Contracting’s passive house condominium project in Victoria. If you remember, North Park Passive House was a first in Canada — the first multi-family market project built to passive house standards. All six of the 2-bedroom residences sold before completion, indicating the rising interest in highly energy efficient homes.
North Park was built with sustainability, high performance and renewable energy in mind. By integrating modern construction practices, the latest building components, and technology, North Park Passive House serves as a benchmark for multi-family passive house construction.
A high tech photovoltaic array on the roof supplies solar energy to the building’s power grid, which adds to the entire strata’s energy savings.
The insulation is made of rockwool (an insulating material made of stone and recycled slag, a by-product of steel production). North Park, like all passive houses, was made with approximately double the amount of insulation as a conventional house along with added insulation under the floors. This extra insulation, along with the use of our ThermoPlus windows, helps to keep the units warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Exterior shades on the east and west windows prevent excessive heat gain in the summer.
There is no furnace in the building. Instead, a heat recovery ventilator circulates the warm air generated by the heated floor in the bathrooms and the electric radiant panel in kitchens. This helps to keeps energy costs low.
The units feature FSC certified engineered hardwood floors and recycled glass countertops. Native plants have been used extensively in the landscaping around the building. There is secure bicycle parking on site, and raised garden beds for residents to grow their own vegetables.
In October 2015, North Park Passive House was certified by the Passive House Institute in Darmstadt, Germany. In April of this year, Bernhardt Contracting won two VIBE awards for the North Park Passive House project: Best Townhouse Development and Best Environmental Initiative.
We value you, our customer, and we are committed to strengthening our relationships with you. We invite you to be social with us! Join our social network community to stay connected with us through our social media channels. Visit us on Facebook or Twitter for product updates, news, upcoming events and other information. Stay informed through our YouTube channel, Pinterest boards, LinkedIn and Google+ accounts. Visit our Homestars page for customer reviews, and stop by our Houzz page for stunning photos of our projects.
Our YouTube channel features videos about our company, as well as shared videos on topics ranging from Passivhaus and other green building practices to interviews and media clips. Visit us on YouTube, watch our videos, post your comments and suggestions, and subscribe to our channel so you never miss a new video.
Are you a Pinner? We’re on Pinterest, too. We pin photos from our projects, tips and tricks on various subjects, things we love and helpful information about windows and doors in general. Follow our boards — we hope you will be inspired and that you will inspire us!
Stay in the loop. Our eNewsletter is a great way to keep current on our news, events and updates. When you subscribe, you can expect to receive our news in your inbox no more than 4 times per year. Don’t miss another issue! Read our last issue.
Got Something to Say?
The world wide web, today, provides many ways to connect with friends, colleagues and professionals making it easy and convenient to search for information, services and help on almost anything you need. Along with advice and instructions, there are also many ways you can make your voice heard — share your opinions, experiences and comments.
We have two channels where you can post a review about us, ask questions about our products, or view building projects that feature our windows and doors.
If you have a review about us that you would like to share — Homestars is the place to do so. It is the perfect vehicle to post feedback on Canadian companies that you have done business with. On our Homestars page, you can read what people are saying about us, write a review about your own experience, give feedback and rate our company, products and service or even ask for a quote on your project. Check it out! We’d love to hear what you think.
Come and take a look at our Houzz page. Houzz is where we share images of our products and projects that feature our windows and doors. You can also build your own Ideabook using photos of our projects, write a review, leave comments and ask questions on this site.
Connect with us!
Join us on any of our social networking channels — we want to learn more about your projects and experiences with our products or services. Share your photos, comments and questions! We love to hear from our wonderful customers, like you!
