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.
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!
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 doorsthat 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.
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 ourOptions page.
For photos of projects featuring our windows and doors, take a look through our Projects Gallery.
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!
Around 100 AD, the Romans produced the first known glass used for windows, but it wasn’t until the early 17th 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:
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 colourorEuroWood™ 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:
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.
On Tuesday, November 24, 2015, EuroLine Windows Inc. joined with a group of BC companies, organizations and cities calling for a bold new Climate Leadership Plan that will include resolute actions leading to, among other things, a robust economy with opportunities for all British Columbians, support for our environment and communities by providing cleaner air and water, and the development of clean energy sources.
As well, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, the Urban Development Institute Pacific Region, and the Pembina Institute have initiated a more in-depth declaration that calls on the BC government to set clear energy performance targets for new homes and buildings. EuroLine – along with more than 70 signatories including the cities of Vancouver, Victoria and Powell River – has also acted to support the Call For Action on Energy and Climate in the Building Sector.
“At EuroLine Windows, we believe that now is the time to make a real effort to reduce the carbon footprint of our buildings, and we welcome the initiative taken by the Pembina Institute for a Call for Action on Energy and Climate in the Building Sector. As an industry, we can leverage innovation and efficiency to drive profitable economic growth, and at the same time reduce our carbon footprint. We recognize that strong policies and regulations are needed to fight climate change and we believe it is our responsibility, as a business, to join in the effort to reduce carbon emissions. It is an honour for EuroLine to be a signatory on the BC call to action on energy and climate.” — Isbrand Funk, President and CEO, EuroLine Windows Inc.
The following is the Pembina Institute media release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 24, 2015
B.C. COMPANIES, ORGANIZATIONS AND CITIES CALL FOR BOLD NEW CLIMATE LEADERSHIP PLAN
Province can’t afford to delay the transition to a clean energy economy
VANCOUVER — As Premier Christy Clark prepares to attend the United Nations climate-change conference in Paris, British Columbia’s government is also gearing up to release its draft Climate Leadership Plan. Following Alberta’s positive announcement over the weekend, groups representing over 1,000 companies, organizations and cities are asking the B.C. government not to squander this opportunity to bring forward ambitious new measures to fight climate change.
Released today, the Call for Action on Energy and Climate seeks bold measures that will lead to a “province powered by clean energy” and provide “protection from a changing climate”. Its 145 signatories include the cities of Vancouver and Victoria, B.C. Government and Service Employees’ Union, Clean Energy B.C., the Canadian Wind Energy Association, Concert Properties, the Pembina Institute, UBC, and National Geographic Society explorer-in-residence Wade Davis.
“We can’t afford to delay. Now is the time to lead the transition to a clean energy economy,” the joint declaration states.
Meanwhile, 77 companies, organizations and cities have thrown their support behind a more detailed statement urging the province to take action to reduce carbon emissions from homes and buildings.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Urban Development Institute Pacific Region, and Pembina Institute spearheaded the Call for Action on Energy and Climate in the Building Sector. Its signatories would like to see the province set clear targets for the energy performance of new buildings. The cities of Vancouver, Victoria and Powell River have endorsed the statement. The City of North Vancouver, Richmond and Smithers are tabling resolutions to endorse it as well.
“By pursuing these opportunities, we can reduce our carbon footprint while saving money, creating local jobs, and opening export markets for B.C.-made components and designs. We can also ensure all British Columbians live and work in buildings that improve community health, happiness, and productivity,” the buildings statement says.
The B.C. government is expected to release the draft Climate Leadership Plan in December, followed by a 60-day public consultation. The final Climate Leadership Plan is slated for public release in March 2016.
Doors and windows are the most important architectural features of our homes and buildings. But, we often do not stop to think about them unless we are thinking of building or renovating our houses, and then we think mostly about their style, composition and energy efficiency…and the cost!
However, history is filled with amazing stories of fascinating doors and windows and our language and culture has many references and adages about them. We’ve always heard that: “eyes are the windows to the soul”, “no one knows what goes on behind closed doors”, “if opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door”, and “when one door closes, a window opens”.
These quips about windows and doors illustrate how important these features are in our lives —they represent a passage into or out of spaces, a way to see things clearly, or a means to keep things private.
We’ve done some digging and come up with five amazing factoids — enjoy!
The Largest Pivoting Window in the World
When Sculp [IT] architects Pieter Peerlings and Silvia Mertens renovated a tiered townhouse in Antwerp, Belgium, they envisioned an updated building that offered all three levels maximum natural light and views of the beautiful terrace below. The structure, named “Lalo”, features a pair of custom-made two-storey French windows that pivot out towards the back facing the garden. They weigh approximately 4 tons and are 19.7 feet high! That’s a lot of glass and quite the view!
How Many Windows?
From 1696 to 1891, residences in England were required to pay a window tax from 2 to 8 shillings depending on the number of windows. For example, the estate where Winston Churchhill was born, Blenheim Palace, has 1,000 windows, so the Churchills would have been required to pay a tax of 8 shillings (£48.43 or $73.55 US in today’s money). Some owners of large estates, at that time, chose to board up many of their windows to avoid paying the tax — that saved on cleaning costs, too!
Buckingham Palace, by comparison, has 1,514 doors and 760 windows — which are cleaned every six weeks to keep them sparkling.
Window cleaners have a much easier time in Washington, DC, as the White House has only 147 windows and 412 doors.
The Largest Doors in the World
Many of our customers purchase large (very large) picture windows, or huge patio doors. They are beautiful pieces that offer stunning views and lots of natural light, but we haven’t even come close to building a door the size of the operating doors of Nasa’s Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The VAB was designed to assemble large space vehicles such as the massive Saturn V moon rocket that are used for manned space exploration. The high bay of the VAB, the tallest part of the structure, houses four vertical corridors. Each corridor has its own door which is 456 feet high — they are the largest doors in the world. It takes approximately 45 minutes for these doors to open or close completely. Wow!
Do Your Windows Have Good Feng Shui?
If you follow Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art and science that explains how to balance the energies of your home to facilitate health and good fortune, you will find that windows and doors are important elements to consider when building or renovating your house.
This conceptmaintains that some window shapes are more favorable than others for facilitating the flow of chi in a positive manner. For example, a square or wide rectangular shaped window (earth element) will promote stability whereas a round window (metal element) fosters determination.
Another method of ensuring good Feng Shui in your home is to keep the walkways to your doors tidy and free of obstacles. This will, according to the practice, increase prosperity and wealth as the flow of chi will naturally follow the path from your door towards you and your family.
The Gods Must Be Crazy!
Doors and windows were important elements in ancient times, too. One of the earliest known deities in Roman mythology was Janus, the god of beginnings and endings. He was a key figure in Roman religious traditions and was known as the gatekeeper, the god of doorways. Janus watched over all entrances and passageways and was often depicted with two faces, because all doorways look in two directions.
There were five shrines built in Rome, to honour Janus, with the most important one situated at an entrance to the Forum. According to the mythology, the Roman army had to exit the Forum in the correct, prescribed, ritual manner in order to return victorious from war. It is believed that the bronze doors of this shrine were kept open during times of war so that Janus could aid the army in its fight, and would be closed only during times of peace.
These interesting factoids may come in handy the next time you play Trivial Pursuit! Do you know any amazing facts about windows and doors? Share them in the comments section below; we’d love to hear about them!
You’re thinking about replacing your existing windows and doors — they are drafty, prone to condensation, leaky and definitely not energy efficient. You also want to improve security, reduce outside noise, and increase natural ventilation and light.
There is a lot to consider when deciding on a big undertaking such as a window and door replacement. Do you want your new products to be fixed or operable? Do you want/need more natural ventilation? Are you looking to increase security and/or noise reduction? Is energy efficiency a major goal?
Once you have decided what kind of windows and doors you want to purchase, the next step is to decide which method of installation will be appropriate for your house.
There are two types of installation for replacement windows and doors — a complete tear out or a retrofit.
A complete tear out involves the removal of your old windows including the frame. This technique is usually recommended because a completely airtight insulated seal between the product and the rough opening can be constructed once the old window and frame are gone. This method can be pricey as it entails more work and may reveal problems, such as deterioration or rot, which may not have been evident before.
A less expensive method, called a retrofit, is to install your new window or door into the existing frame. A retrofit can be done only if the existing frame is in good condition and the new products can be properly sealed and insulated.
Your contractor can assess your home and help you to decide which method is best for your situation.
If you are handy with a hammer, doing the installation yourself is tempting because of the initial cost savings. However, replacing windows and doors is not as simple as changing your flooring or swapping out your old leaky faucets. Installing new windows and doors is a complicated process that requires more than a little know-how.
Need convincing? Here are four reasons to have a professional installer replace your windows and doors.
Get the Benefit of Trained and Experienced Professionals
Windows and doors are a major source of heat loss in your home, and while new technology and improved design has greatly increased thermal performance, improper or poorly done installation can adversely affect the energy efficiency of your products. For example, not every window is installed in the exact same way, and some openings may not be square and may need to be completely reframed. Any error in the installation, such as a slight opening in the seal, can diminish the performance of your new windows and doors.
Professional installers have extensive training and experience when it comes to replacing windows. They have the hands-on expertise to recognize potential problems. They have the tools and skill 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 has provided an airtight, insulated seal. Most window companies have their own installers who know the product well, and choosing someone who understands how to properly install your windows and doors will help avoid any problems that might arise.
Safety First
Windows can be located in awkward or hard to reach places. This can make window replacement a daunting task. Handling glass can be dangerous at the best of times, but you don’t need to worry as your installer will have the necessary safety equipment, is well trained on how to avoid injuries, and knows what to do if an accident happens.
Your Time is Valuable
A professional installer can complete your job more efficiently and in less time than you can. Unless you are experienced in window and door installation, there can be a steep learning curve for you to get your products installed properly in a reasonable amount of time, and with little or no frustration.
Your Replacement Windows and Doors Are a Major Investment
Your new windows and doors represent a significant monetary outlay. You have put a lot of thought into the decision, and you want your products to perform as you expected — keeping you comfortable year round and saving you money on your energy costs. Remember: proper installation is crucial to the performance of your new windows and doors. In some cases, doing it yourself may void your warranty. A professional installer has the expertise to put in your new products precisely to ensure optimum energy retention — isn’t your investment worth it?
Take a look at our products page. All of our windows and doors are custom made to your specifications and are available in a wide range of options, including glass type, colors and finishes. We have everything you need for your replacement windows and doors — including qualified installers!
Visit our showroom and talk to our renovation expert for information and helpful advice.
Sign up for our eNewsletter to find out about new products, events and more.
We definitely feel a chill in the air now that summer has gone — especially at night. Have you turned on your fireplace, cranked up your heat and snuggled up under your coziest blanket while reading or watching TV these past few weeks?
We’ve hauled out our winter woollies and put away our shorts and flip flops, we’re getting ready for the cold front to hit.
Aside from switching up our wardrobes, we’re also getting our homes ready to withstand the chilly weather. Here are six ways that you can keep the heat in and lower your energy bills this winter.
1. TAKE A LOOK AT THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOUSE
Now is a good idea to clean and inspect your roof. Get rid of accumulated dirt and other organic material that can contribute to rot or add extra weight to your roof, especially if you live in a region that experiences heavy snowfall. While you are cleaning, watch for missing or damaged shingles, soft spots, and other items that may need patching up. Call in a professional for any required repairs.
Prevent major water damage to your roof and walls by cleaning your gutters and keeping them free of debris so that melting snow and ice can flow freely from your roof to the ground below.
Turn off the water to your outside faucets to prevent your pipes from bursting during freezing temperatures.
Check to see if any caulking is needed on the outside of your house, especially around openings for pipes and wires.
2. INSPECT YOUR WINDOWS AND DOORS
Your windows and doors let in sunlight and fresh air, but did you know that they are a major source of heat loss? Leaky windows and ill-fitting doors can account for 30% of your home’s energy loss. That’s a big chunk of your heating bill!
To help reduce your energy costs and keep your home toasty warm this winter, check your windows to make sure that the glass is in good condition and fits securely in its frame. Inspect your doors — are they structurally sound? Do they need any adjustments? Look for any gaps around the door and window frames and fill any cracks with a little spray foam insulation.
If your windows and doors are old or in disrepair consider upgrading them to high-performance, ENERGY STAR® models that can save you as much as 12 percent on your heating costs and help keep the heat in. Call our officeand speak to one of our sales consultants – we can help you determine the type of windows and doors that will best suit your needs.
3. TURN DOWN YOUR THERMOSTAT
You can save up to 5% on your heating bill just by turning your thermostat down 2 degrees. Reducing the temperature to 19°C or 18°C (2 or 3 degrees below 21°C — the average Canadian room temperature) is the best range for optimum savings. TIP: Setting your thermostat lower than 18°C may raise the humidity in your house and reduce your furnace’s efficiency.
Consider investing in a programmable thermostat. You can save up to 10% on your energy bill by programming your thermostat to lower the temperature while you are away during the day, or at night while you sleep. For more information on using your programmable thermostat, click here.
4. TUNE UP YOUR FURNACE AND CHECK YOUR INSULATION
Make an appointment for a furnace cleaning and tune-up. Have the filters changed. This will optimize your furnace’s performance and help to keep heat in during the cold months.
Check your attic and basement to see if your insulation has settled or sagged over time. It may be a good idea to replace your insulation with newer, more efficient methods that can save you money and keep your home draft-free.
5. WRAP YOUR WATER HEATER
Heating hot water is the second largest portion of your energy bills, accounting for between 15 and 20 percent of your total energy costs. This winter, if your water heater is an older model, wrap it with insulation or in a blanket designed especially for this purpose. For more details about water heaters — how to buy, which kind to choose, etc. — read the Natural Resource of Canada’s Water Heater Guide.
6. MAKE THE SWITCH
If you have a ceiling fan, flip the switch so that the blades turn counter-clockwise. This reverse motion will push the warm air back into the room, helping to keep the room warmer and can save you as much as 10% on your energy bill. Find out more here.
Take a look around our site: our product pages describe our range of custom-made windows, and doors along with the wide array of options and accessories that are available. On our gallery pages you can see photos of our products and projects.
REMEMBER:The Vancouver Home + Design Show is on this week! Visit us at Booth 1129 – Drop by and say hello! Ask us how our windows can give you the best thermal comfort AND reduce your energy costs!
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.
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.
The IBS was founded by the 
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 
Doors and windows are the most important architectural features of our homes and buildings. But, we often do not stop to think about them unless we are thinking of building or renovating our houses, and then we think mostly about their style, composition and energy efficiency…and the cost!
