Category: Blog

The Importance of Windows in Energy Efficiency

When building or renovating a home, choosing the right windows for the project is a major decision that can impact both the design and curbside value of the property overall. This is why most homeowners focus on the aesthetic aspect of their windows and doors when selecting new products for their home. While looks are definitely important, performance should also be a key consideration in this decision. This is because there is a significant correlation between a property’s windows and its energy efficiency and consumption.

Thermal Holes

Standard windows can actually be “thermal holes,” causing a structure to lose up to 30% of its heating or cooling energy. Usually you can actually feel the impact of poor quality windows in a space especially if you have ineffective or non-existent insulation around the window framing. The entire area will get drafty, almost like the window is open, which can be particularly frustrating come wintertime. This is why, having good, reliable windows is so important to the overall livability of your home. Furthermore, your window selection can have a huge impact on utility bills and switching to high-performance windows will create a noticeable difference in monthly heating and cooling expenses.

These “thermal holes” are also the reason why the installation of quality, efficient windows is one of the most important components in creating an energy-efficient building. If you are environmentally focused and your goal is to build a truly ecologically friendly home, then you need to start with a high-performance window. Windows play a huge role in reducing CO² emissions and preventing energy waste. In fact, window selection is one of the highest weighted elements in achieving Passive House Certified ratings.

What is a Passive House?

The term “Passiv House” or “Passive House” refers to a rigorous standard for energy efficiency in buildings. This standard, recognized in countries worldwide, is viewed as the pinnacle of truly energy efficient and ecological architecture.The passive house voluntary standard for energy efficiency results in low energy homes that require little energy for heating and cooling the interior.

Our PHC (Passive House Certified) Windows are engineered to have a fine balance between solar heat gain and heat loss that help homeowners, architects and energy advisors meet building regulations and accomplish the lowest energy consumption possible for their projects.

Other Advantages of Energy Efficient Windows

Besides reducing energy consumption, there are other advantages to installing energy-efficient windows:

Greater durability
Minimal condensation
Interior temperature control
Increased comfort
Improved air quality
Cost savings

Staying Ahead of the Curve

As standards in energy efficiency increase, homeowners want to ensure their windows and doors are up to the highest level of effectiveness to ensure their home can continue to be ranked as Passive House or Step Code compliant over time. At EuroLine Windows we are dedicated to energy-efficiency and product development. Our products already can achieve the highest rating of Energy Step Codes, exceeding the current standard for Step Code compliance in B.C, and we continue to push the envelope when it comes to manufacturing a high-performance product.

For more information on Passive House standards, Step Code compliance, and the role of windows in energy efficiency in general, please contact one of our window consultants.

energy efficiency

9 Advantages of Tilt & Turn Windows

Over the years European-inspired tilt and turn windows have become an increasingly popular choice as a premium feature in luxury homes in North America. But, having only recently gained traction in mainstream designs in this part of the world, they are still one of architecture’s best kept secrets when it comes to increasing property value and improving aesthetics. Optimal security, streamlined designs, and high-performance in energy efficiency are only a few of the many advantages of tilt & turn windows. So why are so many high-end designers choosing to incorporate them into their latest projects?

We’ve put together a list of nine advantages of having tilt & turn windows, but before we get into that, here is a quick overview of what they are and how they work.:

How Do They Work?

Using a single handle, a tilt & turn window provides the functionality of three different window types in one single window unit:

Fixed — One easy-to-operate handle moves the multi-point locking hardware into place and locks the window on all sides. Not only does this provide an airtight and waterproof seal against the elements, but it also creates a high-security closure protecting against forced entry.
In-Swing Casement — With the handle in the “turn” position, the sash turns inwards on side hinges. This position allows for easy cleaning from the interior, rapid cross-ventilation, and quick emergency egress.
Hopper— With the handle in the “tilt” position, the sash tilts inwards at the top, providing draft-free ventilation while maintaining the security and privacy.

The 9 Advantages of EuroLine Tilt & Turn Windows

3 Windows in 1: Because tilt & turn windows are essentially the three most popular window types in one design, they provide more value and functionality than traditional fixed, in-swing, or hopper windows.
Perfect for Any Size Space: Our custom windows are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate any living situation. As a result of their unique design, you can use tilt & turn windows to create oversized windows that are able to provide airflow without any visible seams in the glass. They also still look great in tight spaces as single, slender windows, while maintaining all their functionality.
Versatile & Flexible: Not only do they fit in a wide range of spaces, but these windows are also ideal for use across design styles and in a range of architectural projects. They come in a large variety of colours, finishes and shapes.
High-Performance Energy Efficiency: In general, tilt & turn windows are better at maintaining a pleasant indoor climate while keeping electric bills low than traditional, North American window styles. EuroLine Windows takes the high-performance aspect of tilt & turn windows one step further by offering the thermal performance needed for a Passive House design and, by creating windows that are rated at the highest StepCode possible according to the B.C Energy StepCode Council.
Expansive Unobstructed Views: With their seamless, single-pane designs, tilt & turn windows are the perfect design feature to highlight beautiful, unobstructed views and panoramic vistas.
Easy-to-Clean Design: The in-swing function of our windows allows for easy cleaning of exterior glass. This means you can safely clean the exterior of your windows from the inside your home. There is no need for precarious ladders or extra preparation.
Better Ventilation: Another great benefit of tilt and turn windows is the varied ventilation options they provide. These windows allow for top-only ventilation, easily enabling hot air flow out of the top portion of the window while the rest of the window remains closed and secure. Alternatively, the window can be completely opened so you can enjoy the full experience of what nature has to offer, like a fresh summer breeze, from inside your home.
Modern Aesthetics: Clean lines, slender frames, and a range of designer finishes and handle options lend to an in-demand, modern aesthetic that can elevate your space and increase the value of your home overall.
Increased Security: EuroLine’s multi-point locking system, reinforced steel frame, locking hinges, and glazed glass provide optimal security. Our tilt & turn windows also stand up to elements creating an impassive, virtually impenetrable barrier against anything mother nature may throw at them.

As you can see, there are many reasons to love these European-style windows and our tilt & turn products give you the most durable, versatile, and energy-efficient window system in their class. Take a tour of some of our latest premium home projects to get a better idea of how tilt & turn windows can enhance your living space:

The Latest Project by EuroLine Windows in Scenic West Vancouver

Spectacular Custom Windows in Vancouver’s Trendy Dunbar-Southlands

tilt & turn windows

The Latest Project by EuroLine Windows in Scenic West Vancouver

With extra safety precautions in place for the health of our employees, EuroLine is still working diligently to complete projects for expectant homeowners. We are also taking appointments for new projects in our meticulously sanitized showroom. An excellent example is one of our most recent projects in Vancouver. This 6000 sq/ft luxury home sits high on the hills of scenic West Vancouver. Our client wished for windows and doors that allow the melding of indoors and outdoors so they might enjoy both equally. This choice is proving to be an especially valuable breath of fresh air in this time of indoor isolation.

To achieve their goal, we worked with the client to install a range of Euroline windows and doors in their open and airy contemporary home.

Overlooking the City and Sea

The client’s sunlit bedroom sits on a hill overlooking the city of Vancouver. Euroline tilt and turn windows and doors allow for the sunlight and fresh air to be enjoyed in full.

Easy to Use, Easy to Clean

All the Euroline tilt and turn windows throughout the home are easy to use and easy to clean. The inside and outside panes of glass can be accessed from any floor without issue when fully open. When closed, they use a multi-point locking system to ensure optimal security.

The Beauty of Tilt & Glide

Our Euroline tilt and glide doors were perfect for this light and airy home. They are also terrific for saving space as they don’t take up real estate on the inside or outside, unlike a standard swing door. Our doors are super easy to use and can be moved around with one finger.

These doors feature gaskets on the frame and sash — so when you use a multi-point locking system to seal the door, it has gasket-on-gasket compression. This results in an incredible seal that helps conserve energy and leaves you feeling secure.

Inviting in the Light

With a breathtaking view and incredible outdoor living area, the homeowners wanted to bring the outside inside. To accomplish this, we installed a very wide set of French doors with sidelights. As a result, the expanse of doors allows the interior to spill into the outside seating area and the backyard beyond. Thin crisp lines accentuate the view and help give the home that clean, contemporary feeling.

Artful Arches

Custom arches create a beautiful focal point in this hallway, adding a classic nuance in this otherwise contemporary home. Our Euroline team made these custom arched windows onsite with amazing results.

Bathing becomes an experience under these custom Euroline arch-top windows. They can be a bit more labor-intensive to make but, the result is totally worth it as they give the room a lovely touch of European style.

We are happy to consult on how to get the most function and beauty out of your own new build or remodel. Contact us online or give us a call to make an appointment to explore our showroom and the possibilities EuroLine has to offer.

Everything You Need to Know About B.C. Government Window Rebates

Looking to replace your drafty windows with new energy-efficient ones? There’s never been a better time to do it! Not only will you reap the rewards of lower energy bills and lessening your carbon footprint on the environment, but you’ll also be rewarded financially by the government of British Columbia. We’ve created the simple guide below to help you understand everything you need to know about B.C. government window rebates before investing in your home:

What are B.C. government window rebates?

With the Better Homes Rebate Program, those who install new energy-efficient windows and doors may be eligible to receive a rebate for their efforts. Unlike the previous rebate programs, where you had to install triple-pane varieties to qualify, the current program makes receiving a rebate much more achievable with basic glass upgrades.

What are the benefits of applying for window rebates?

In 2020, you can receive up to $2000 in rebates for installing energy-efficient windows and doors or up to $100 per window or door and up to 20 windows/doors per Tier.

Rebate Tiers

Tier 1 windows/ doors: $50 per window/door (maximum $1,000). Just a note, tier 1 window and door rebates are not available in the City of Vancouver.
Tier 2 windows/doors: $100 per window/door (maximum $2,000)

Your current windows or exterior doors must be replaced with program qualified products. Additionally, this upgrade will count towards an additional Two Upgrade Bonus or the Home Energy Improvement Bonus.

Who is eligible?

Make sure your property and your choice of new windows and doors are eligible for the rebate with the following guidelines:

The invoice date for the installed windows and doors must be on or after January 01, 2020. If your invoice is dated before this date, see the “Other” section below for FAQs on what rebates are available to you.
Your upgrades must be installed by a licensed contractor with a valid BC business license for the trade applicable to the installation work.
You must have a residential utility account with FortisBC, BC Hydro, or a municipal utility.
Your home must be primarily heated with:
- Natural Gas or piped propane supplied by FortisBC
- Natural Gas supplied by Pacific Northern Gas
- Electricity supplied by FortisBC, BC Hydro, or a municipal utility.
- Oil or propane not supplied by FortisBC
Premises primarily heated by wood or other solid fuels are not eligible.
You must live in an eligible home.
The home must have a minimum of 12 months of consecutive utility billing history.

Is there a deadline or time limit for applying for the rebates?

Government funds for the window and door rebates are limited, so you’ll need to have your new window and/or door install completed and submit your rebate application before funds run out. Additionally, you’ll want to keep the following deadlines in mind:

The application form for individual upgrades must be submitted within 6 months of the invoice date of the upgrade.
The application form for the Two Upgrade Bonus must be submitted within 6 months of the second bonus-eligible upgrade. You must complete your second bonus-eligible upgrade within 18 months of the invoice date of the first bonus-eligible upgrade.
The application form for the Home Energy Improvement Bonus and EnerGuide Home Evaluation Rebate must be submitted within 6 months of the date of your post-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluation.
You must complete your post-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluation within 18 months of your pre-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluation.

Things you’ll need when applying for your rebate

Assessment records & files, including your pre-upgrade assessment and recommended upgrades, and a detailed list of completed work.
All original receipts and window product model numbers.
Retailer invoices reflecting a detailed accounting of the number of windows installed, the window types, the window manufacturers, and the date of the installation.
Proof of 12 consecutive months of energy bills from your energy provider.

How do I apply for the window rebates?

To apply for your rebate, click HERE – Remember, you have 6 months from the date of your invoice to apply for the rebates.
For more information on the B.C. Window rebate, visit betterhomesbc.ca.

If you would like to learn more about EuroLine Windows energy efficient products message our high-performance window team or give us a call at 1-800-337-8604.

energy efficiency Energy Efficient EuroLine Windows high performance window rebates

Spectacular Custom Windows in Vancouver’s Trendy Dunbar-Southlands

Sitting among the tree-lined streets, expansive gardens, and other luxurious residences of Vancouver’s Dunbar neighborhood, an upscale modern house project presented us with an exciting challenge: per the customer’s request, the house’s interior must be kept open to the beauty and breadth of the surrounding landscape and climate while remaining secure and private.

We were more than thrilled to accomplish this for her as we knew our high-performing window and door products were perfect for achieving the homeowner’s dream of feeling on top of the world as she goes about daily life. We invite you to explore the highlights of her beautiful home below as we walk you through the project details that make this house stand out:

Secure Yet Welcoming Entry Door

Wanting a unique, modern and secure door, this customer chose to use one of our highly customizable 4700-Series Entry Doors. In order to maintain privacy while keeping to a contemporary style, we incorporated an obscure, sandblasted glass panel insert with clear horizontal lines that highlight the sleek look of the door.

This door also features a high-security multi-point locking system with quality, durable hardware ensuring the safety of the home. As a bonus, it also has a barrier-free (flush) sill that allows for easy entry and egress from the house for any with mobility restrictions like strollers or wheelchairs.

Clean Contemporary Aesthetic

Something that really adds to the contemporary aesthetic of this home is the unconventional choice of finish used for the entry door. While many homeowners choose a contrasting or unique entry door, our customer wanted to keep a fluid contemporary aesthetic throughout her entire home. To achieve this she chose a finish that intentionally matches the colours of the windows and the other doors within the home.

The “gun metal” ( or “met brush anthrazitgrau”) she selected from our expansive custom colour range is incredibly sleek. It has the desired appearance of anodized aluminum but is actually our famously energy efficient vinyl. Aluminum always lends itself to a more contemporary aesthetic and looks terrific when paired with expanses of glass.

The light bounces in and through the entrance, from metal to glass, for an eye-catching visual both inside and outside.

The customer chose the Verona door handles for their security features and sleek look. The handle styles were carried throughout the home.

Let the Outdoors In

In order to fully enjoy the beauty of Vancouver’s warmer seasons and take advantage of the breathtaking city, water, and mountain views, this homeowner took advantage of EuroLine’s 3400-Series folding doors. These dynamic doors are great because they both invite the beauty of nature into the home, and help to extend functional living space. As you can see, the high performance bi-fold doors open up completely for optimal enjoyment of indoor/outdoor living.

The expanse of clear glass associated with our 3400-series folding doors makes you feel like you’re on top of the world—which is exactly what this homeowner wanted.

The ease of use the doors provide in this high-functioning unit also spoke to our homeowner’s desire for a product that could be easy and functional without obstructing the view. From a product perspective, the door is bottom hung, meaning the weight is distributed at the sill making the rolling mechanism very easy to use.

Let the Fresh Air In

To allow for optimal views and ventilation, we used tilt and turn windows in the kitchen. Typically, with a window the size you see depicted above, manufacturers would have to break the glass up into two pieces in order for it to be functional and open in any way. However, at EuroLine, we are able to build impressively large windows with a single pane. The tilting mechanism makes it so that there is no need for a vertical obstruction or separation for the window to still open and be functional.

The tilt and turn window, when it is in a vented position, moves the air around nicely. This is exactly what you want in a space like the kitchen where good air flow helps with cooking ventilation or, can wake you up with a breath of fresh air alongside your morning coffee.

In the Bedroom

To allow for views of the mountains beyond the bedroom window, the homeowner chose our 1400-Series Casement & Awning windows. They allow light and air to flow through the bedroom for a sense of well-being and communing with nature.

Tying It All Together

The homeowner was incredibly pleased with the outcomes provided by EuroLine’s products providing her with security, beauty, and ultimately, a window (and door) to the world.

We are happy to consult on how to get the most function and beauty out of your own new build or remodel. Contact us online or visit one of our showrooms to explore all the possibilities EuroLine has to offer.

Dunbar-Southlands

Transition, focus and forward: a 2019 Review from the CEO of EuroLine Windows

Transition, focus and forward: a 2019 Review from the CEO of EuroLine Windows

As we head into 2020, I begin this letter with a sense of pride in what the EuroLine team has accomplished over the last few months. It is remarkable how much we managed to achieve during this period of organizational change and economic uncertainty, not only in terms of financial performance, but also in our dedication to providing the best service and products to our clients across North America.

In the beginning of 2019, we unveiled a new logo that mirrors EuroLine’s continued focus on building products that are the pinnacle of innovation and beauty. This external change was accompanied by updates in our processes internally as we focused efforts on streamlining our production processes, and maintaining lead times. We exceeded our productivity and efficiency targets while maintaining our revenue, and a 95% client satisfaction rate across the board. This is truly a testament to the fantastic team we have working at EuroLine, as our ongoing success is only possible thanks to the passion and commitment each of our team members has shown our customers during this period of growth.

Now, with a new year in front of us, and more positive changes on the horizon, I am enthusiastic about the future of EuroLine. Earlier this month we announced our search for a new President. We are excited for the opportunity to bring on an outside perspective, with fresh passion to inspire more innovation within our organization. We also look forward to introducing new products to our loyal EuroLine clients. Amid these changes, we will remain focused on our commitment to improve and are confident in our ability to make a continued positive impact on the lives of both our employees and our customers. In closing, and with that in mind, I would like to express my deep gratitude and appreciation for the character and capabilities of the employees at EuroLine Windows.

Sincerely,

Darren J. Mark, CEO

EuroLine Windows

The 12 Windows of Christmas

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

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!

Ice Box Challenge

Two weeks ago, on August 14th, the results were finally revealed – Passive House box: 639 kg, BC Building Code: 407 kg.

In a period of 18 days, the ice block in the PH box had melted off 361 kg, while the ice block in the BCBC box lost 593 kg. That’s a difference of 232 kg, meaning almost 65% more ice melted in the BCBC box than in the PH box.

That’s pretty impressive – or is it? Some people have questioned whether the result was really all that remarkable. After all, Passive House construction is claimed to be up to 90% more efficient.

Such criticism is fair, but one should take into consideration that the structures were small and temporary. Both affect performance.

These days, windows keep getting larger and larger. The elevation these windows are on is rarely taken into consideration – except when building a Passive House. Large windows on the North or East elevation result in larger heat losses, which is why in PH construction, fewer windows are used on these elevations, and their size is relatively small. However, on the BCBC box, the window used was also a small window, hardly the size of an average window these days. With windows still being the weakest part of the building envelope, this gave the BCBC box an advantage over a typical house built to the code.

The window choice, too, gave the BCBC box an advantage. Rather than choosing a low end sliding window with an inferior seal, a high end EuroLine 1400-series casement window was used. This window not only has a tighter seal than the average window being used these days, but at 1.53 W/(m^2*K) the u-factor of the window used also far surpasses the u-factor required by the BCBC (1.8 (W/m^2*K)).

On the other hand, the PH box was at a disadvantage, as in a temporary structure it is much more difficult to achieve the same kind of seal and insulation as in a permanent structure. Of course insulation plays an integral role in the PH standard. Much attention and care is paid to not create any thermal bridges, and a smoke test is perform to find and seal even the smallest air leaks.

Finally, building codes all across the world are improving, with many cities, and entire countries, aiming to adopt the Passive House building standard as their national building code standard. While a Passive House can still be 90% more efficient than an older building, the difference will be less, compared to a new home being built to current standards. And that’s a good thing.

We still think that the results achieved in the Ice Box Challenge were pretty impressive – but we look forward to the day when both structures will perform exactly the same.

Throwback Thursday – Bernhardt Passive House

With Vancouver on its way to becoming the Greenest City by 2020, the province following closely with its BC Energy Step Code – both embracing the Passive House standard as a way to achieve the desired outcome – and events like the Ice Box Challenge bringing the concept of Passive House to downtown Vancouver, it can be difficult to believe that just a few years ago, Passive House was a foreign concept to most here in Canada, including in the building industry.

Rob Bernhardt, CEO of Passive House Canada, describes his and his family’s 3 1/2 year experience living in their Passive Home for The Province (read about it here).

Let’s travel back to 2013, when Bernhardt Contracting was recognized by the District of Saanich as a Carbon Champion.

Saanich Carbon Champions – Bernhardt Certified Passive Home from Sustainable Saanich on Vimeo.

International Mid-Year Passive House Open Days

It’s Passive House Open House Days again!

Everyone is talking about Passive House! You’ve heard the buzz around this energy-efficient building standard — and now is your chance to see first-hand what goes into attaining these rigorous ratings during the Mid-year International Passive House Open Days – June 16-18, 2017.

Sponsored by the International Passive House Association, this world-wide event allows participants to experience Passive House in their own communities ahead of the IPHA main event held annually in November.

Visit the under-construction open house in Langley, Friday, June 16th, featuring EuroLine windows and doors. Details below (click on the image for larger display).

Get in touch here or call 604.940.8485