What Are The Different Types of Window Treatments?
Finished your window replacement project? Now looking for a neat window treatment design? Look no further, in this blog is everything you need to know about window treatments.
The Basics
The first thing you should know is there are 4 basic types of window treatment: shades, blinds, shutters and drapes. Lots of homeowners confuse different treatment types, the most common confusion being between shades and blinds, but it isn’t something one should be ashamed of, since even the best interior designers can get confused as well.
Finding the ideal treatment for your window is hard and depends on many things, but mostly it depends on the homeowner’s preferences. Do you value privacy more than aesthetics? What kind of style is your home? Do you prefer modern or traditional looks? To help you out, we are going to discuss the 4 basic types and what they can offer to a home:
1. Shades
Probably the most common choice for homeowners, shades come in different colors, sizes and materials. But, what all shades have in common is their way of functioning, opening from bottom to top, they are most practical for maintaining privacy in a home.
The most popular ones are called Roman shades, usually made from fabric. Roman shades can also be made from specific woods like bamboo. A modern variant of shades as window treatments is cellular (known as honeycomb – also opening from top to bottom) and roller. To put the cherry on top, manufacturers also create shades from highly UV resistant and energy efficient materials.
2. Blinds
The number two option for homeowners is blinds. These are more flexible than shades since they are created from slats which can rotate to 180 degrees. This makes them ideal for maintaining privacy and allowing natural light at the same time.
Just as with for shades, there are many variations for blinds as well. However, the 2 basic types are vertical and venetian. In the latter, the slats are placed horizontally while in the former, well…vertically. But the ultimate and most modern blinds are pleated. They are similar to cellular shades because they open from top to bottom, as well as from bottom to top.
3. Curtains
The gentlest window treatment out there is drapery. Choosing a curtain is surely more complicated than choosing blinds and shades. There is ton of fabric available and each material has its own characteristics, including weight which also contributes to the overall aesthetic.
From café curtains to ones operated with pushing a button, curtains are the richest window treatment when it comes to options on the market. The sense of elegance they bring to a room cannot be replaced by anything else. But, what they have in beauty, they lack in privacy. This is why homeowners usually combine them with other treatments or choose heavyweight combinations of different curtains.
4. Shutters
This window treatment is not always, but can be combined with either curtains, blinds or shades. Commonly found in traditional homes. The best shutters are those with authentic and historically rich designs, adding a unique flare to the interior of the home.
This window treatment is placed inside of the window and it is usually made from wood or vinyl. The thick material works amazing for privacy and on extremely hot/cold days it keeps more air on the inside of the home.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Windows?
Thinking about doing window replacement? Smart move! This renovation project has one of the highest returns on investments. Tons of homeowners are deciding to freshen up the windows since they learned how a window determines energy efficiency, comfort, and market value. But, when should one really replace the windows? To help you out, here are the basics things you should know about this home upgrade:
The Factors
Each window is different and so is each home, thus “when to replace” may be a difficult question for answering. However, there are factors that influence every type of window and determine its efficiency. Some windows work best in colder climates, while some in hotter. Some frames last 25 years, while some only 15. Everything you should know about these factors will be presented below. But before you read, check the warranties to see your window’s age since it is of utmost importance!
Frame Material
A window frame can be made form lots of things. However, there are 4 most popular materials: wood, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass. When it comes to age fiberglass deserves the first place since it can last to approximately 50 years. Vinyl has the second place with a lifespan of 40, while wood slightly less with 25 and aluminum with the last place, lasting maximum 18. These numbers vary because to achieve maximum lifespans, the windows should be in an ideal climate, properly installed and manufactured, and regularly maintained.
The better the company you hire for installation, the more your windows will last. Also, wood requires regular maintenance because of vulnerability to termites and rot. So if you haven’t been cleaning it lately, don’t expect it to reach 25. Another important thing is replacing the windows after surviving a severe storm. The window may have lasted the storm, but it put maximum effort to do so, resulting in extreme damage on the inside.
The Signs
If you checked your window’s age and you learned that it is quite young, don’t put your mind at ease. This is because severe weather conditions, massive mold growth or problems with the drainage systems can cut those numbers in half. So having a malfunctioning window, even before its end date, isn’t that uncommon. Check these warning signs to see whether you need immediate window replacement or repair. Schedule a free consultation to check the true condition of your windows:
- Cracks & Rot
- Draftiness
- High Electrical Bills
- Termites & Pesticides
- Window Leaks
- Poor Soundproofing
- Faded Furniture Around the Window
- Scratched Glass
- Frequent Interior Condensation
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
Signs That You Need to Replace your Patio Doors
With time, materials deteriorate and lose their functionality. Your patio doors probably aren’t made of stone so they should be replaced as soon as they reach their age limit. Depending on the framing, they last from 15 to 30 years. If you aren’t sure about their age, just ask them with inspecting each detail for signs of possible damage:
Uncomfortable Drafts
Want to sit on the couch next to your window or patio door, but that uncomfortable draftiness is just too difficult to ignore? Well, the quality of your windows and doors determines the quality of insulation and proper heat transfer. So, the first sign for window and patio door replacement is draftiness. Besides creating an uncomfortable living environment, unwanted drafts increase the energy bills as you start turning on the heating system more often.
Worn Outlook
People say that age isn’t an issue, but it definitely is for doors and windows. Some patio entrances which are made from wood might not be in need of replacement, but of a simple repainting or clean up. Nonetheless, giving that worn out look some attention will provide you with new information about the condition of your patio doors. Bad weather conditions and insufficient maintenance usually shorten the lifespan of insulation material resulting in worn out looks and scratches or cracks.
Moisture Levels Rising
From basement floods to leaky roofs, water has sure provided a lot of hassle for homeowners. One of the damages that water can do is increase humidity levels, therefore, mold growth and allergies or asthma attacks. If even one of your doors and windows isn’t doing their job right, wall cracks and leaks will start invading your home’s foundation making it weaker than one could ever imagine. So you should do patio door or window replacement if you find water leaks, cracks or mold around the frames and interior condensation on the glass.
Difficult to Operate
Doors are made for being easily operated, that is one of their main qualities and if yours don’t, immediately contact the experts to check what sort of damage has occurred to them. Sometimes we can tight the seal a little bit too much and if done frequently it can result in loose locking systems. Another reason why your patio doors are difficult to operate is dirt and debris build-up. Before you decide on a replacement, make sure you thoroughly clean them.
Eager for Change
Apart from reducing practicality and comfort, patio doors can also reduce on aesthetic value. If they don’t compliment the home the way they used to – it is time for a change. Renovating entrances is also good according to feng-shui as it lets new fresh memories to enter your home and therefore life. If your budget is tight at the moment, a simple repainting job will do the trick and keep your interior up to date.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
Why You Should Consider Replacing Your Windows
Window replacement is something we keep on hearing about. It has become a reality slap for homeowners as they continue to discover the benefits of replacing old and poorly functioning windows. Here are 5 reasons why you should start thinking about window replacement.
1. Safe From Harm
With time windows can start to lose their primary qualities. Wooden windows last to about 15 years, while vinyl ones can reach 40. No matter the type of window, each of them is affected by aging which results in loosening up, rotting and tons of unseen scratches. Apart from losing their insulation quality, old and malfunctioning windows can become a safety hazard for homes. Windows with loose locking systems make it easier for intruders to fulfill their maleficent dreams. Poorly functioning windows also decrease safety from storms, difficult weather and UV rays damage.
2. Foggy Glass
There is a possibility that you have malfunctioning windows if window condensation is common for your household. There are many reasons for having fog on the window glass. Some of them are high humidity and climate change. They don’t pose a threat to your home’s insulation and can easily be solved with humidifiers. But with time glass can break on the inside and cause air to be trapped between the panes. This is why other causes and problems such as faulty sealant and window type require glass and window replacement.
3. Saving Money
It is widely known that the type of windows you have in your home determine the amount written on your energy bills. High energy bills indicate that it’s time for window replacement since windows have a key role in sustaining ideal room temperatures. No heating technology can save you from poor insulation if your windows keep on letting unwanted hot air exist and cool air enter the living area. While you are doing window replacements, keep in mind window characteristics as R-value, U-values and Energy Stars which provide you with information about the window’s energy efficiency.
4. Noise Reduction
The most beautiful things about a home are calmness and privacy. With the exception of curious granny’s, no one wants to hear their neighbors rattle on a relaxing Sunday afternoon. Not many people know, but bad soundproofing happens because of low quality windows. They can stop absorbing unwanted outside noise and start letting it pass through and enter your private living areas. This is common for old windows or poorly installed ones.
5. Style Change
A common motive for doing window replacements is simply making a change and refreshing an aspect of your daily routine. Change is always beneficial as it teaches us different methods of appreciating life. Planting a new flower in the garden can make your whole week filled with excitement. The same goes for window replacement. Changing the frame of your view will inspire other changes, ones that you might have never imagined.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
Benefits of Replacing Your Windows
Just like every part of your home, windows sometimes need to be replaced. Whether it is because you are moving into a new house or because you decided to renovate your old one. Change is always good and here is a list we made with some benefits of window replacement.
1. Reduced Energy Bills
Windows have life spans too because with time their functionality dwindles. Old windows usually have loose or rotten frames, scratched glass, leaks, pesticide problems and are less energy efficient. By replacing your windows as soon as possible, you will be getting the newest mechanisms and materials for increased functionality. New and modern windows will stop the cool breezes from entering your home which in the future will reduce those high energy bills.
2. UV Protection
Windows with poor or thin glass absorb less light and sound. If not properly filtered before entering your home, UV lights can cause severe damage to furniture, carpet and artworks. They will also make it harder for you to relax or read a book. While replacing your windows choose a glass that will prove as the best light and sound insulator for your home. Usually, those windows have double or triple panes which are filled with air instead of gas.
3. Increased Home Value
Window replacement is one of the home renovations that add to your curb appeal. Buying and renovating a home is the biggest investment you’ll be making in your entire life. Do not miss out on window replacement as it gives extra security, aesthetic value and energy efficiency for your household. When choosing your windows try to keep in mind the nature of your home. Each type of windows is suitable for different types of houses and living areas.
4. Increased Security
Buying new windows and ensuring their proper installation is a safety measure above everything else. Windows which have cranking systems tend to be safer. Another important thing is the type of glass your window has. You don’t want having windows which are easily breakable. Besides safety from burglars and intruders; mind your emergency exit plan. The type of windows that your home has should depend on that exact plan. You don’t want being stuck in a certain room and having an awning window as the only option for an exit.
5. Low Maintenance
As time goes by, technology develops and today we have the best material for windows, ever! The moto of the 21stcentury is less maintenance and longer lifespans. The materials from which your windows are made determine the amount of time you have to spend in their cleaning and renovating. For instance, did you know that vinyl framed windows don’t require repainting? They are also immune to rot and bad weather conditions. Investing in new windows will save you up on some extra spending you’ll need to make for renovations and repainting projects.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
Commitment to our Community
As a part of our ongoing commitment to our community, PM Windows & Doors sponsored a neighborhood cleanup day undertaken by the students at Pioneer Park Public School. The whole school received a pizza party complimentary of PM Windows & Doors.
Established in 1984, PM Windows & Doors has grown to be a leader in the window and door industry.
PM Windows & Doors works hard and has established a reputation for fairness and honesty by using quality products combined with customer… satisfaction.
visit us online at www.pm.on.ca
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or call us at 519-576-8327
Lo-E Glass, Soft or Hard Coat, One Coat, Triple Coat, I’m Confused
Let’s begin with a primer on what Low-E glass is. PPG provides a more intense description of Low-E glass at https://educationcenter.ppg.com/glasstopics/how_lowe_works.aspx. In a nutshell, the coating in Low-E glass minimizes the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through glass without compromising the amount of visible light that is transmitted. The coating can be applied as a hard coat where the top surface is heated to almost melting and the coating is injected below the surface. This glass can be easily handled after it is cooled. The coating can also be applied on the surface of room temperature glass. However, the coating cannot be touched after it has been administered. This is a process utilized by Cardinal Glass. The soft coating is available in three layers, 180 (single), 272 (double) and 366 (triple). Each additional layers reduces the amount of ultraviolet and infrared more which provides fade resistance. At the same time, the solar energy from the sun is reduced thus providing cooler glass surfaces which is beneficial in the summertime. However, the drawback is that, since glass performs the same all year round, cooler glass surfaces will also prevail in the wintertime. In Canada, where more of the year is spent heating our homes than air-conditioning them, multiple coated glasses can prove to be a disadvantage. The beneficial passive heat from the sun that would help warm our homes in the winter is being blocked by these multiple coated glasses. This fact is supported by the substantially lower Energy Rating numbers ( as specified by Energy Star ) for multiple coated glasses in comparison to single coated glasses, whether soft coat or hard coat. My advice is to select a multiple coated glass like Low-E 366 if you have rooms in your home that are unbearable to be in because of excessive summer heat or that fade resistance is extremely important to you. Select a single coat glass such as a hard coat or 180 if you want to retain the benefit of passive solar heating in the winter.
Foam Filled Frames : Marketing Gimmick or Real Benefit
I have been asked by many customers if a benefit exists to having vinyl window frames filled with foam. There are some companies that charge a substantial premium for this feature. A few years ago, I came across an article that dealt with this issue. The article has been repeated in many forum postings such as this post at https://www.vinyl-replacement-windows.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=714. The testing and evaluation has been performed by Enermodal Engineering of Waterloo, Ontario. The result is that the net effect on the overall window is an increase of 0.1 improvement in total R-Value of the window. In comparison, selecting triple glazing over double glazing can improve the R-Value of the window by about 0.7; 7 times greater than the foam-filled frame feature. The foam filling is very visible and impressive in crosssection at trade shows, but performance should be the primary goal. As I tell my customers, common sense should also prevail. The largest area of the window is the glass, not the frame. Choosing your glass wisely will yield a better return on your investment than choosing the frame.
Accessible Customer Service
Our Commitment to Providing
Accessible Customer Service
To enable our staff to better serve those with disabilities we have developed and put in place a plan that puts the customer first and lets the principles of independence, dignity, integration, and equality of opportunity guide them.
Our employees have been instructed on:
- The Accessibility of Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
- To consider a person’s disability when communicating with them
- What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing our organization’s goods or services
- Allow assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers and oxygen tanks
- To welcome support persons and allow service animals
- How to use any equipment or devices we have available to assist people with providing goods or services to people with disabilities
- Let customers know when accessible services aren’t available
- Invite customers to provide feedback
Our Full Corporate Accessibility Plan Is Available Upon Request
If you have any concerns comments or suggestions please direct them to my attention
Did You Know about Brand Names?
Brand names can make a difference in long term performance and durability. We aren’t talking about your running shoes or your golf clubs; we are talking about the products that you invest in when you modify your home. Windows, doors and siding etc. come in various grades of quality. Just because it is a window, doesn’t make it a good window. Perhaps it’s time that you stop by and see what PM Windows & Doors can do for you?