Author: Valaria

The neighbourhood kids were having a great time playing baseball outside your house. The batter swung — it was a home run — but then THAT sound broke through the jubilant cheers!

Now the fun is over and  you have to deal with the aggravation of a broken window. Follow these 5 steps to quickly and safely manage the problem.

Assess the Mess

Take photos of the damage, before, during and after the clean up — this may be helpful when making an insurance claim.

Next survey the scene before starting your clean-up. Is your window cracked or partially broken, is the glass unstable? This can be dangerous — extreme caution is necessary when attempting to remove or secure broken glass that may fall unexpectedly.

Is the window fragmented? Shattered glass can spray farther than you might expect, so it is important to cordon off the space surrounding the breakage to protect everyone from pieces of stray glass. Keep children and pets away from the area.

Before you begin the clean-up, protect yourself by wearing safety glasses or goggles, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, heavy work gloves, and sturdy boots or closed-toe shoes.

Pick up the Pieces

Start by picking up the largest pieces first. Wrap them in newspaper or a cloth before placing them into a cardboard box. Remember to look for glass shards or fragments behind and on top of furniture and in between cushions as well as on the floor.

When you have finished collecting the big fragments, you can use a broom to thoroughly sweep the area for any stray shards. Sweep slowly and carefully to avoid scattering bits of glass into the rest of the room. Next use your vacuum to remove any small pieces that remain. Finally, wipe the hard surfaces and the floor near the window with a damp paper towel to remove tiny splinters and glass dust. You may need to repeat this step as tiny glass particles may be nearly invisible.

Finally, wrap all the shattered glass pieces in a cloth or several layers of newspaper and place in a cardboard box. Tape the box closed and label it “Danger – Broken Glass”. Deposit the box, the vacuum bag, broom and paper towels safely in the garbage.

Secure the Window

If the pane is mostly or completely gone you will need to protect your home from the weather and/or intruders. The best way to do this is by covering your window or window frame with a piece of plywood that is a bit larger than your window. A heavy tarp or a thick plastic sheet is the next best option if plywood is not available.

To prevent injury when securing the window, you may want to remove any large shards of glass that remain in the window frame. Make sure to wear gloves and carefully snap off the jagged pieces. Dispose of the broken glass safely as in the step above.

 

Contact Your Insurance Company

Whether your window was broken as a result of a friendly ball game or a spring wind storm, your homeowner’s policy may cover the cost of your replacement window. Call your insurance company; they can help you file a claim and answer your questions about your coverage.

Call Your Window Professional

Talk to your EuroLine Window sales consultant to help you decide on your best replacement options. There are many features that you may want to consider when you are ready to replace your window, including laminated safety glass and tempered safety glass. We can answer all your questions and help you make the best choice for your needs. Ask us about energy efficiency, privacy, colours and glass options, too. We love to talk about windows!

Check out the links below for more information:

Handling Broken Glass

How to Safely Dispose of Glass Garbage

Watch our “Break-In Test” video

Visit our Products page for information about our windows, doors, accessories and options

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It’s officially spring! The days are getting longer, the air is warmer, birds are singing, and people on the street seem to have a little extra pep in their steps! Spring brings a sense of renewal, of freshness, and of course, we feel like getting down to cleaning our houses inside and out. Don’t you?

Your EuroLine windows and doors are virtually maintenance free, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a little attention every now and then. So get out your buckets and sponges and let’s get to work!

Clean Your Window and Door Frames

Remove all your window screens and lay them on a flat surface.  Wash them with mild soap and water using a soft brush, then rinse and wipe dry. Don’t forget to put them back on when you are done cleaning all your windows and doors!  Watch our video for instructions on how to install EuroLine window screens.

Before you start washing your windows, get out your vacuum to clean the sill and track areas. Over the fall and winter, fine dust and dirt has probably built up inside these areas and if allowed to remain, it can result in poor operation or even damage to hardware. A soft, small brush may be helpful to loosen any dirt or dust from around frame.

Wash your window and door frames with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Mild, non-abrasive soaps are the best for most dirt and stain removal. EuroLine windows and doors are made from a high quality, pore-free uPVC material that is easy to clean, and does not support the growth of mold or mildew. Remember to use a soft cloth when cleaning the frames — never use an abrasive material like sandpaper or steel wool. Gritty or raspy articles will cause damage to the smooth surface. Also, do not use abrasive or caustic solvents to clean your frames as these will cause permanent damage to the frame finish. Consult your instruction manual for methods of cleaning heavily soiled areas or give us a call – we’re happy to help with any information or advice!

TIP: Small scratches in the finish may be repaired with matching paint pens available from our office. Call our office and speak to our service department for details.

Rinse the frames completely with clear water and wipe dry with a damp cloth — a dry cloth can build up static which will attract dirt and dust.

Make sure that the weep holes — both inside and outside the windows and doors — are clear of dirt or obstructions to ensure proper drainage. Check to ensure that the weather stripping around operable windows and door panels seals evenly.

Make Your Glass Sparkle

It is important to take care of the glass in your windows, as proper maintenance is needed to preserve the insulating properties of your high performance windows and doors.

Always use a solution of mild dish soap and water or an approved glass cleaner when cleaning glass surfaces. Petroleum-based cleaners or caustic chemicals should never be used as they could weaken the structural integrity of the glass or damage any special coatings that are present.

STOP: Never use a high-pressure spray nozzle to rinse your windows — this could cause the glass to crack or possibly loosen the seals.

For more details on taking care of your EuroLine windows and doors, download our info sheet: Cleaning & Maintenance of Your Vinyl Windows and Doors

Take a Look at the Hardware

Now is an excellent time to lubricate the hardware components of your windows and doors. Follow the instructions in your product manual to keep them operating smoothly. We recommend that you lubricate your hardware at least once a year, or more frequently, as conditions dictate. Every six months, check all hinges for tightness of fasteners and look for damage to hinges.

Complete details on cleaning and lubricating window and door hardware can be found in your maintenance manual. Or visit the Resources page on our website for detailed information – look in the Product Manuals section.

TIP: Do not use citrus, vinegar, abrasives, ammonia or siding washes on the window hardware as this may result in damage to the components.

REMEMBER: Your EuroLine windows never need painting and will never rot, split, fade, yellow or grow brittle with age. With just a little TLC and regular cleaning, your windows and doors will have years of trouble-free operation.

*IMPORTANT: EuroLine window and door products are shipped with a protective plastic film that reduces damage from handling and installation. This protective film MUST be removed upon completion of installation. Failure to remove the protective plastic film upon completion of installation may cause film to bond to the frame and permanently damage the frame finish.

Film bonded to your windows? Read How to Remove Baked on Protective Window Film for helpful information.

Want more information? Check out these pages on this site:
EuroLine Windows Resources: Instruction and maintenance manuals, brochures, videos, FAQ, and more.
EuroLine Windows Products: Information and photos of all our products and accessory options.
EuroLine Windows Project Gallery: Photo slide shows of residential and commercial projects featuring our window and door products.

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Are the windows in your home drafty or leaky? If you are considering updating your old, inefficient windows, one of the most important steps is to measure for your replacement units.

It is critical to have an accurate measurement of the rough opening to ensure that your new windows will fit into your existing framework. Knowing the measurements of your windows will also be helpful when you are requesting quotes, as the size of your units will have a bearing on the cost, though for the purposes of a quote the approximate window size will suffice.

A guide to measuring windows

House settling can change the size of your window openings and the dimensions can vary because the frame is not always straight. In order to get the most accurate measurement, it is important to measure from three different areas, both horizontally and vertically.

MEASURE HORIZONTALLY — To determine the approximate width of your window, measure between the jambs at the top, middle, and bottom of the window. Record the smallest number. The smallest measurement is used because it is much easier to adjust a window to a bit of a larger opening, than to try to fit one into a space that is even slightly smaller.

MEASURE VERTICALLY — Measure from the top of the sill to the top of the head jamb. Take the measurements from the left, centre and right of the window. Again, record the smallest of the three measurements. This will be the height of your window.

MEASURE FOR SQUARE — Over the years, your house can shift and settle, causing your window openings to become “out-of-square”. To measure the “squareness” of your windows, measure the diagonals from the upper left corner to the lower right corner and do the same from the upper right corner to the lower left corner. Record both measurements. If the two numbers are approximately the same, the opening can be considered to be square. If they are quite different, then this may cause your new windows to be installed in an out-of-square position. This can result in poor performance of your windows.

This condition can be avoided by installing a slightly smaller window so it can be installed “square” into the opening and then properly sealed for air-tightness.

PLEASE NOTE: This article is meant to be a guide only. Your window will extend slightly beyond the jamb extensions, meaning that measurements taken inside the jambs will most likely be a bit smaller than the new heel sizes you will need. For accurate measurements of your actual rough openings and the window heel sizes you will need, talk to the person who will be installing the windows.

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Appearance, style, efficiency, performance? If you’re looking for new windows and doors, you probably have a million questions. Your window sales consultant can give you all the answers you need, but here is a list of 24 things to know about windows (and doors) to help you out right now.

Energy Efficiency and Performance

1. According to Natural Resources Canada, leaky and inefficient windows and doors can account for as much as 25 percent of your home’s heat loss. You can reduce heat loss and cut your energy costs by choosing high-performance windows and doors. Think: triple-pane insulated glass, LoE coatings, high quality, multi-chambered frames, and ENERGY STAR^® ratings.

2. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) uses u-factors to rate the efficiency of windows. The u-factor measures the rate of heat transfer (or heat loss) and replaces the previously used r-values. The u-factor rating appears on the efficiency label on new windows. For more information about u-factors and window performance, visit the NFRC website.
   

3. Another important measurement is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The SHGC measures how much heat your home gains from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the less heat is gained. To help reduce solar heat gain, you can use landscaping or exterior window treatments to provide shading. For instance, according to the US Department of Energy, window awnings can reduce heat gain by as much as 77 percent, depending on the orientation of the window.

4. In Canada, the ENERGY STAR program ensures that high energy efficient products are easily identified and are available to Canadian consumers. Windows and doors must meet specific energy performance levels that have been determined for three climate zones across the country in order to be ENERGY STAR compliant.

5. You may have heard the term IGU when discussing window choices with your sales consultant. What’s that, you ask? Insulating Glass Units (IGUs) are sealed combinations of two or more panes of glass separated by an air space. The air space is often filled with an inert gas for added thermal performance.

6. Argon is one of the most common inert gases used in window glazing today. A gas, such as argon, is heavier than air and therefore offers more thermal efficiency than just having air between the panes. Argon is colourless, odorless, non-toxic and cost efficient, making it a popular choice for use in IGUs. Click here for more information about argon filled windows.

7. Low-emissivity (low-E) coatings are a thin metallic film that is applied to panes in an IGU. LoE helps to reduce energy costs by reflecting heat back to its source, keeping heat inside the house in the winter and out of it in the summer. These coatings also reduce UV rays that cause flooring, fabrics, and windows to fade.

8. Even clear glass, double pane (sometimes referred to as double glaze) windows can significantly lower your energy use, compared to single pane windows. Upgrade to triple pane IGUs and you will reduce your energy consumption even further. HINT: Double pane windows are IGUs with two panes of glass in a sealed unit. Triple pane is, you guessed it, three panes of glass.

9. It’s no secret! You can have a window system that is made here in Canada and meets Passive House, Leed and Net Zero building standards. Ask how our ThermoPlus™ windows can help you attain the stringent Passive House criteria.

10. Noisy neighbours, city traffic, low-flying airplanes? You can significantly reduce noise with a window system that has a tight seal afforded by a multi-point locking system. Reduce even more sound by using double or triple-glaze windows with a pane of laminated glass, and gas fill between the panes. HINT: Triple-pane glass does not considerably reduce noise levels compared to double-pane units, unless the panes have varying thicknesses. Because laminated glass is thicker than the other glass panes (6mm compared to the standard 3 or 4 mm), and has a layer of PVC between the panes, this filters out different sound frequencies than the other panes in the IGU.

A Bit About Style

11. Tilt & Turn windows and doors are relatively new to North America (though they have been available for well over 20 years now), but are gaining in popularity because of their practicality. These types of windows “tilt” open at the top for draft-free ventilation, and “turn” open to the inside for safe, easy cleaning.

12. Casement windows open to the outside from a side hinge, while awning windows open to the outside from the bottom with a top hinge.

13. A picture window is a “fixed” window meaning it does not open. Picture windows allow maximum natural light into any room and are used wherever a large, unobstructed view is desired.

14. Bay windows are usually a combination of one large fixed window flanked by two smaller windows available in various angled projections.

15. Bow windows are made up of four or more windows of the same size — they protrude to the outside in a curved structure producing a round appearance on an exterior wall.

16. Did you know that a window set above a door or window is called a transom? These windows are usually added for extra light and visual appeal.

17. A sidelite is a non-operable, vertical window that flanks a door. A door can have one or two sidelites.

18. What exactly is a French door? Dictionary.com defines French door as: “a door having glass panes throughout or nearly throughout its length” We define French doors as “beautiful, gorgeous, stunning” Choose this type of door when you want to add a “wow!” factor to your interior. For an indepth description of French doors, check out this blog post on Remodelista: Sourcebook for Considered Living.

19. Folding doors open your interior to the outdoors and add a dramatic element to your home. These doors are ideal gateways between living room and pool areas or wherever wide-open spaces are desired.

20. Consider a tilt & glide door for your patio entrance as an alternative to the typical sliding or French door system. Available in various configurations, a tilt & glide door combines the best features of a window and a door to create a distinctive entry. Easy one-handle operation allows the door to glide open or tilt in for secure ventilation.

Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize!

21. You can add custom grids, sometimes called grilles, to your windows for a decorative look. Ask your sales consultant about the options and costs for this accessory.

22. Window screens are available for tilt & turn style windows. They fit on the exterior of the frame, meaning you don’t have to take them out when cleaning the exterior glass pane. Screens are also available for casement style windows – they go on the frame on the interior.

23. Want privacy without using blinds or curtains? Consider obscure glass which is available in various colours and textures that provide a translucent or semi-opaque effect will capture light while limiting visibility. This type of glass is a popular choice for ground-level bathrooms.

24. Rollshutters are gaining in popularity — they reduce solar heat gain and provide an extra level of security for your home. These shutters are available with a manual crank handle or an optional motor operated by a switch on a remote control.

Visit our Products page for information on all our windows and doors.

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You’ve decided to renovate your old house, or you are building your dream house. You want your home to reflect your style and personality while standing out as an example of good taste and beauty on your street.

One way to heighten visual appeal is to include a bay or bow window in your design plan. Both styles will open up a room, allow in more natural light, and add an air of elegance to your interior. The graceful arches and angles of bay and bow windows enhance the charm of your room and the angled panes provide exceptional, unobstructed views.

But which window do you choose — bay or bow?

Bay or Bow — What’s the Difference?

Bay windows are a combination of one large fixed window flanked by two smaller windows. The smaller windows are usually operable but can be fixed. This type of window is available in various angled projections. Bay windows protrude from the wall to the exterior space, providing a little extra space in the room.

Install a beautiful bay window to create a small alcove in your bedroom or living room (great places for a window seat!) or a nook for your dining room or family room (a sunny place to gather for a meal!).

Bow windows are made up of four or more windows of the same size — either fixed or operable. These windows protrude to the outside in a curved structure producing a round appearance on the exterior wall.  They can be wrapped around the side of your house to create a unique turret shape allowing for views from two sides.

Make a stunning impression by choosing an elegant bow window configuration for your entrance or living room. Bow windows look great in any area such as your dining room or bedroom.

 

Visit our showroom and talk to our sales team. They can help you choose the best windows for your new build or renovation project. Make sure to inquire about our many options, including: accessories, glass types, colours and finishes.

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Last week, from January 19-21, we were excited to be in Las Vegas at the International Builders’ Show (IBS).

The IBS was founded by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in 1944 to promote the home building industry. It is the largest construction trade show in the world, annually hosting more than 100,000 visitors from across the globe. This year’s event was once again part of Design & Construction Week, which includes the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, the International Window Coverings Expo, and the International Surface Event.

With over 500,000 square feet of exhibits and more than 1500 exhibitors displaying all the latest products and services for the building industry, this show had it all — from adhesives to zero energy home plans. The venue was bustling with attendees taking part in seminars and hands-on workshops, and touring the exhibits.

Throughout the 3-day show, we met and talked with people from all over the globe. We had the opportunity to walk around and see some of the new and innovative products and services that are available to professionals in the building industry today.

On the last day of the show, the 2016 Best of IBS Awards were presented to eleven winners, including Best in Show to Red Horse USA, Inc., who won for their innovative product Winbag, a powerful inflatable air cushion made of fiber reinforced material that can be used to replace shims. Congratulations to all the 2016 IBS winners!

The IBS 2016 was an exciting event; a whirlwind three days. We were happy to be a part of it and we came home with lots of ideas and information about the latest in trends, products and new technology in the building industry.  Viva Las Vegas!

Mark your calendars for upcoming local trade shows. We’ll be at the Kelowna Home Show February 13 & 14, the BC Home + Garden Show February 17 to 21, and Buildex Vancouver on February 24 & 25! Plan to drop by any of these events to say hello and chat about windows and doors!

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We rang in the New Year with party hats, noisemakers and champagne; now we’re thinking of window and door trends for 2016.

According to a market research study by the Freedonia Group, demand for new windows and doors in the United States is expected to grow by 6.9% annually through 2018. Vinyl windows and doors are expected to become the fastest growing fenestration products in the market because of their energy efficiency and affordability.

The $22.8 billion US window and door industry is projected to hit $31.9 billion by 2018. Wow! What are consumers looking for in new windows and doors in 2016? Here are a few predictions on what’s trending this year:

Bigger is Better

Demand for larger windows and doors is still rising as customers want to stay connected to nature with seamless integration between the indoors and outdoors. Homeowners are choosing wide, unobstructed views allowing for maximum natural light inside their living areas. Look for large, multi-paneled folding doors that bring the outside in, French doors, tilt and glide doors, and large picture windows to be popular choices for door and windows in 2016 and beyond.

 

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Reducing their carbon footprint and saving on their energy costs remain high on homeowners’ requirements for new purchases this year, and window products are no exception. With the growing interest in Passive House, LEED and Net Zero Building, customers are demanding the ultimate in performance, flexibility and durability when choosing new windows and doors. As a result of this demand, high quality vinyl/hybrid windows are gaining in popularity, offering exceptional energy efficiency and affordability to homeowners.

Functionality

Mainstream in Europe for years, tilt and turn windows are becoming all the rage in North America. Tilt and Turn windows “tilt” inwards from the top for secure, draft-free ventilation and “turn” inwards at the side for easy cleaning from the inside and quick emergency egress. This functionality of the tilt and turn window – along with the high-performance, durability and low-maintenance of a vinyl profile – make it a favourite with homeowners.

Contemporary vs Classic

While classic look windows and doors are popular and always will be, modern contemporary styles are hot this year. As well as larger, sleek windows, architectural windows placed higher on walls – especially in homes with high ceilings – are the new look. Paired with other windows placed at conventional heights, this style adds allure to any living area.

Colour Trends in Home Decor for 2016

Benjamin Moore introduced Simply White OC-117 as its Colour of the Year for 2016  and Colour Trends 2016, a 23 colour palette to complement the timeless beauty of this year’s number one hue.

While many colour options are available for windows and doors, white endures as one of the most popular choices. White windows and doors add a quiet air of subtle elegance to any style of home – from classic to modern – and harmonize beautifully with any decor palette, including the 23 “in” colours from “Colour Trends 2016” or even Pantone’s colours of the year – Rose Quartz and Serenity.

 

For more information on our windows and doors, check out our Products page.

To see some of the many colours, finishes and other options available for our products, go to our Options page.

For photos of projects featuring our windows and doors, take a look through our Projects Gallery.

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Come and see us at our showroom in Delta, BC. Our knowledgeable sales team can help you with all your window and door needs.

We’re all in the Christmas spirit around here these days. Since the beginning of December, we’ve been all about the holidays.

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 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

*Want to see the winning photo in our photo contest? Visit our Facebook page.

PLEASE NOTE:

EuroLine Windows will be closed for the holidays
from Friday, December 22nd, 2017 until Tuesday, January 2nd, 2017
We wish you a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

 

A Short History of Window Glass

Around 100 AD, the Romans produced the first known glass used for windows, but it wasn’t until the early 17^th century that glass became commonly used in windows of the everyday home in England. Early window panes were thick and small, made from uneven pieces of glass that allowed light in, but were not very transparent.

In the 1320’s, French glassblowers developed a process of making flattened pieces of glass by blowing a hollow globe, which was then spun into a flattened disk, called crown glass. The photo on the left shows Crown glass at the Angelika Kauffman Museum.

Around 1688 also in France, a procedure for manufacturing flat sheets of glass was developed. This involved pouring molten glass onto a table, then using rollers to evenly spread out the liquid glass.

As glazing technology improved and the plate process was mechanized, it became possible to fabricate larger, distortion-free pieces of glass. However, this process was costly as it required the finished glass to be ground and polished to remove the marks on the surface caused by roller to glass contact. It wasn’t until the 1950’s that a process for economically producing high quality, flat sheets of glass was devised.

Invented by Sir Alistair Pilkington, the float glass process involves combining the common raw materials of glass – including sand, soda and ash – and heating the mixture to about 1500°C. The molten glass is drawn from the furnace in a continuous ribbon and “floated” on a bed of molten tin. The result is a sheet of glass that is smooth and flat with a uniform thickness and perfect clarity. This method of fabricating glass is still used today.

Glass Choices — What a Pane

While the manner in which glass is made today hasn’t changed much in the past decades, modern technology has developed different types of glass enabling us to have better energy efficient windows and affording us a variety of choice in the appearance and safety of our homes.

ANNEALED GLASS

Float glass, or annealed glass, is the basic type of flat glass and is commonly used to make windows.

Annealed glass has a uniform thickness and allows for maximum natural light transmission without distortion. However, it tends to break in long, jagged shards and is not recommended for use in high traffic areas where safety is a concern. Annealed glass can be tempered and/or laminated.

TEMPERED OR HEAT-STRENGTHENED GLASS

Tempered glass – or heat-strengthened glass, as it is sometimes referred to – is one of two kinds of safety glass. It is recommended for use where glass breakage could pose a danger. Standard annealed glass sheets are “tempered” by a process of extreme heating and rapid cooling.

This process renders the glass sheets four to five times stronger than before. The hardened glass, when broken, shatters into small, dull pieces instead of long shards which eliminates the danger of sharp or jagged edges.

Tempered glass is used to make skylights, glass doors, store windows, tub enclosures and shower doors. Since the process of tempering also makes the glass heat-resistant, tempered glass is also used in household items such as glass teapots and coffee carafes, baking dishes, and oven doors.

LAMINATED GLASS

Laminated glass, another type of safety glass, is made by a process that combines heat and pressure to bond a layer of polyvinyl butryal (PVB) between two or more layers of annealed, tempered, or heat-strengthened glass. This bonding process results in a highly strengthened glass pane that is impact-resistant and very durable.

When laminated glass breaks, it cracks into a spider web pattern, but the glass fragments are held in place by the PVB interlayer which prevents the glass from falling free and potentially causing injury. It also effectively reduces noise, blocks 99% of ultraviolet rays, and is used in windshields, highrise windows, skylights, glazed doors, balcony railings, elevators, etc. Laminated glass can be used for the outer panes of an insulating glass unit especially where safety or security is required.

LOW EMISSIVITY GLASS

In order to increase the energy efficiency, one or more of the glass window surfaces can be treated with special low emissivity (LoE) coatings. LoE is a thin, nearly colorless metallic coating that allows most of the light from the sun to enter freely through the window while absorbing a significant portion of the sun’s short-wave heat energy. In the summer, long-wave heat energy radiating from the sun is reflected back outside, helping to keep the inside cool. In winter, internal long-wave heat energy is reflected back inside, keeping the interior warm and lowering heating costs.

OBSCURE GLASS

Sometimes called patterned glass, obscure glass adds privacy where window coverings are not practical or desirable. Various colors and texture patterns provide a translucent or semi-opaque effect that allows maximum light while maintaining privacy, and adds a decorative element as well. Obscure glass can also be tempered for use where safety glass is required.

Shown here are examples of two of the most common types of obscure glass: rain and pinhead. Rain glass is most commonly used in bathroom windows.

TINTED GLASS

Glass is available in a variety of tints which increases privacy, absorbs some of the sun’s short-wave heat energy, and reduces the glare from the sun. Tinted glass changes the color of the window, but generally blends in well with other exterior colors. From the inside, tinted windows retain their transparency although the brightness of the view is diminished and the color is slightly changed. The most common tint colors are bronze, grey, blue and green.

For more information on glass options for your EuroLine windows and doors, visit our showroom or call and speak to our knowledgeable sales representatives.

Check out the links below for more information about window glass:

A Quick History: Window Glass

What is Tempered Glass?

Shattering Science and Glass Physics

Check Out EuroLine’s Glass Options

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Your new EuroLine windows and doors have been custom made for your unique style, you know they will provide you with the utmost thermal comfort, and they look great. Since our window and door systems are made from high quality uPVC material, they require minimal maintenance that – if done on a regular basis – will ensure that your products will operate at their peak performance. We recommend that you examine your windows and doors at every season change or at least once every year.

Now is a great time to “winterize” your home — before the big snow hits (or rain, if you live in a place like Raincouver)! The tips below will help you care for your EuroLine windows and doors so you can enjoy trouble-free operation and unsurpassed thermal comfort through the cold months ahead.

Safety First.

Always consider your safety when performing any maintenance around your house. Use the proper equipment when cleaning or servicing windows — especially those that are above ground level. Take special precautions when using commercial cleaning products — read and follow all manufacturers’ safety instructions and warnings. Always wear protective eyewear and use products in well-ventilated areas. Clean up spills immediately and follow recommended disposal instructions to prevent injury or harm.

Start with the Glass.

Use an approved glass cleaning product to clean your window panes. Make sure the products you use are not acidic or abrasive, as these types of cleaners could damage the surface of the glass, the frame and/or hardware of your windows. Avoid washing the glass in direct sunlight and never use a power washer.

Check glass panes for cracks or scratches. If you notice moisture or fogging between glass panes of an insulated glass unit, this may be an indication of seal failure.

Take a Good Look.

Inspect your windows and doors for dirt build up or scratches on the frames.  Clean clay, beige or white uPVC frames with a mild, household cleaner and a soft, damp cloth. Do not apply the cleaner directly to the frame. Always use a soft, damp cloth to avoid static that will attract dust and dirt. If your frames have a laminated colour or EuroWood™ foil,use a standard, non-abrasive cleaner to wipe any soiled areas. If the laminated foil is scratched, you may be able to repair it with a paint pen. You may be able to buff out small scratches from the uPVC profiles, but be careful not to overdo it, as the profiles will lose their sheen if cleaned too aggressively.

Make sure that drainage holes are not blocked and that all channel grooves at the base of the frames are free of dirt and debris. Examine the exterior caulking around the outer edges of the window frame, look for cracked or loose caulking and/or fissures. Replace with new caulking and seal gaps as necessary.

Remember to Check the Mechanics, too!

Carefully examine all hardware — locks, opening mechanisms, etc.  — does everything operate smoothly? Look for any damage to the hinges and make sure any exposed hardware screws are tightened securely. Take care to clean any sand, dirt or dust that may have accumulated from door and window hinges, sills and tracks. Use clean water to remove grit and grime. Never use an acidic or caustic cleaner as this may damage the special protective coatings or lubricants that are present.

Re-lubricate the hardware once it is clean and thoroughly dried. We recommend that you lubricate your window and door hardware with a light, petroleum-based oil at least once a year to maintain optimum operation. If you live in a coastal region, you must rinse and lubricate your hardware every three months or more often as conditions dictate. If you are located in a beach area, check your hardware for sand and grit more frequently.

Remember to inspect the gaskets for damage. Damaged gaskets will impair your window and door performance. If you have air or water leaks, examine the gaskets carefully and replace if required.

You can find complete details on cleaning and lubricating window and door hardware as well as general care instructions in your maintenance manual. Or visit the resources section of our website for more information or to download manuals.

A Few Words about Condensation:

Today’s modern building practices and better products have given us tighter sealed and warmer homes than ever before.

Condensation on glass is a common occurrence and can appear on either the interior or exterior window panes. This moisture formation, while annoying, does not usually mean that there is something wrong with your windows. High performance windows and doors are doing their job: preventing the cold outside air from coming into your house, and stopping the heated indoor air from escaping outside, keeping you toasty warm and lowering your energy costs. But this reduction in natural air exchange, along with the water vapour from activities such as breathing, cooking and showering, means that your home will have a high relative indoor humidity level which can result in condensation on the inside of your windows.

“According to Natural Resources Canada, a family of four will generate approximately 50 L (17 gallons) of water a week just through normal household activities.”  

Wow — that’s a lot of extra moisture!

The easiest way to control indoor condensation is to lower the relative humidity inside your house. There are several things that you can do to accomplish this, including running your kitchen fan while cooking, and bathroom fans when bathing or showering. Also, opening a window to air out the house on a daily basis and keeping your blinds and drapes open as much as possible will help to lower indoor humidity. In some cases a dehumidifier may be needed to bring humidity levels down.

The chart below, from Natural Resources Canada, Keep the Heat in – Chapter 9: Operating Your House,  shows the maximum levels of indoor relative humidity at 20ºC (68ºF) at which there will be no condensation on conventional double-glazed or energy-efficient windows at various outside temperatures.

For more tips on dealing with condensation, please check out our Condensation FAQ on our Resources page.

For additional information on condensation, check out these links:

Moisture Problems – Natural Resources Canada

Exterior and Interior Condensation on Windows – Fenestration Association of BC

Avoiding Condensation Problems – Homeowners Protection Office – Branch of BC Housing

Questions About Windows & Condensation? – National Fenestration Rating Council

Reduce Condensation, Increase Health and Comfort – BC Hydro

PLEASE NOTE:
If you have excess water on or around your window sills or notice ice forming on the inside, call your installer, builder or dealer as this may indicate that your windows or doors have been installed incorrectly.

If you find condensation between the panes in an insulated glass unit, the airtight seal may have failed and require replacement.

One Last Tip.

EuroLine window and door products are shipped with a protective plastic film that reduces damage from handling and installation. This protective film MUST be removed upon completion of installation. Failure to remove the protective plastic film upon completion of installation may cause film to bond to the frame and permanently damage the frame finish.

Film bonded to your windows? Read this document for helpful information.

 

For information about our products, click on the following links:

EuroLine Windows Resources: Instruction and maintenance manuals, brochures, videos, FAQ, and more.

EuroLine Windows Products: Information and photos of all our products and accessory options.

EuroLine Windows Project Gallery: Photo slide shows of residential and commercial projects featuring our window and door products.

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