Windows are an integral feature of any building, no matter if it is for residential or commercial use. The fact of the matter is, that it is almost impossible to find a home or commercial building that does not have any windows. So, when your windows get to the point where they are not functioning properly, or are not providing the comfort and safety they once did, it is important to replace your windows with ones that will meet all of your expectations and needs.
Below we feature the most common materials that the frames of your new replacement windows can be made of:
1. Vinyl Window Frames
The first type of window frame that will be highlighted is arguably the most popular frame material for windows today. Vinyl window frames are made of PVC or polyvinyl chloride. These frames are known for looking good, being great insulators, and requiring very little maintenance over the years. What makes them so popular however, is that you get a good durable material at an affordable price point.
2. Aluminum Window Frames
Aluminum frames were the most popular material of choice for some time prior to vinyl taking that moniker. Aluminum frames are regarded as being rugged, long-lasting and are low maintenance. There is no need to ever paint aluminum frames as they do not fade easily in sunlight. Also, aluminum doesn’t rot or suffer from the common wear problems that can affect other window frame materials. The main downfall for aluminum frames is that when compared to other frame options, they are lacking in terms of efficiency as aluminum allows higher levels of heat transfer and they can also be more expensive than other materials.
3. Wooden Window Frames
Wood window frames provide a classic look that adds appeal to your home. These frames are also quite durable and have a long potential life span. Because wood can be cut to meet any size requirement, they can be highly customized in terms of size and design. These frames can be made of different types of hardwood, that will also influence the price as some woods are more expensive than others. Where wood frames fall short versus other materials is that they require more attention and maintenance. A fresh coat of paint will be needed every few years to keep these frames looking fresh, and you may need to chip away old paint or sand down the frames before you can do this. Wood is also susceptible to rot and weathering, so if there is pooling water or you are in a moisture heavy environment, your wood frames can deteriorate faster.
4. Fiberglass Window Frames
Fiberglass window frames are extremely durable as they will not rot or warp due to moisture. They also have great thermal resistance blocking potential heat transfer and offering great insulating potential. The downside of fiberglass frames is the cost, even though they are less expensive than the higher-grade wood frames, they are still quite costly.
Above we covered four of the most popular window frame materials. There are additional options such as composite and wood clad which are made of a mixture of materials, however neither of these options are very popular for our northern climate.
When choosing the right window frames for your window replacement, look for the material that can meet the design and function of the window you are looking for, as well as meets efficiency levels and your budget.
Searching for a replacement window and stuck on choosing between double hung and
casement windows? Are you looking to understand the differences between double hung and casement windows? We have the explanation below that will help you to make an informed decision on what style windows are best for your needs.
Here are the differences between double hung and casement windows:
1. Type of Opening
Double hung windows are comprised of at least two sliding sashes (glass inserts), sliding the sash either left or right will easily open the window. Casement windows are hinged, and use a cranking mechanism to open the window outward. The double hung windows are more of a classic window design, and the go to choice, if there is limited space on the outside of your window. As they do not encroach on the outside space.
2. Outdoor Viewing
Double hung windows do not have grids between the glass, allowing them to provide a clear,
unobstructed view of the outdoors. However, the check rail in its center can obscure your view
slightly. Casement windows do not have a check rail and can be built without a grid in between the glass, allowing for a completely unobstructed outdoor view. Perfect for that picture-frame look.
3. Seal
Windows and doors usually experience variances in temperature more than other parts of your home. As a result, they can affect your energy bills due to heat transfer or air leaks. Due to the overall design of casement windows, it allows for a tight seal once locked, which can prevent heat loss and air transfer. Double hung windows slide along a channel, and even though there is weather stripping to prevent airflow, over time you may experience a draft. When choosing replacement windows, keeping in mind the energy efficiency rating is an important factor to consider.
4. Ventilation
Double hung windows allow for airflow to pass through easily and provide a nice breeze into your home by sliding opening the sashes. Casement windows offer good ventilation as well when cranked completely open, however, the outward opening window may interfere with the flow of air slightly. Both window types are a good option for allowing fresh air into your home, as they provide a large opening for air to pass through.
5. Cleaning
Both double hung windows and casement windows are fairly easy to clean when approaching from the exterior of your home. However, if you are looking to avoid getting the ladder out, double hung windows have an advantage, as you can remove the sashes from the comfort of the interior of your home to clean them.
Both new casement windows and new double hung windows will provide your home with better efficiency than your old windows, and they will both influence the overall aesthetics of your home. They will both provide you great views and fresh air. Choosing the right type of replacement windows for your home, comes down to your individual style, needs and expectations.
If you are looking into replacement windows for your home, it is important to be well versed in some of the key terminology. Glazing a window, is a term that many people believe is something that is done to a window or that it is some sort of coating applied to a window. Perhaps this is the case because they draw a correlation with other popular uses of the word glazing. For example, glazing a cake or a donut refers to covering the baked good with some form of liquified sugar.
When it comes to windows, glazing actually refers to installing glass or the window pane into the window frame itself. The term glazing comes from an old English expression meaning glass, you will sometimes hear a window with two panes of glass described as a double paned window or double glazed window.
A major benefit of having multiple layers of glazing, is the improved insulating factor of the window itself. A double glazed window has a spacer placed in between the two pieces of glass, this space between the glass allows for the temperature of the internal pane to remain closer to room temperature, reducing heat transfer. To further increase the insulating properties of a multi-glazed window, the space between the glass is sometimes filled with argon gas. This inert gas is denser than the atmosphere, making it more efficient than just air.
When it comes to energy efficiency, double glazed windows are the most popular, but triple glazed and even quadruple glazed windows are available options. The more glazing present, the more energy efficient the window will be. But, with the increased energy efficiency, also comes increased costs of the window itself. Making triple and quadruple glazed windows less popular, even though there is added efficiency.
Referring back to the misconception of glazing a window having to do with a coating applied to the window, there are in fact coatings that can be applied to glazing. A low emissivity or low-e coating drastically helps reduce heat transfer through the window. The coating works by reflecting heat back to its source. In the summer, a low-e coating will help block the heat from the sun from entering your home and in the winter, the coating will help keep the heat in your home by preventing it from escaping through your window.
A low-e coating, argon filled, double glazed window is a popular choice as a replacement window, as it has great energy saving qualities, while providing additional noise dampening (another benefit of having a multi-glazed window), and provides the increased security that comes with any new window installation.
If you are in the Kitchener or Guelph areas and are considering replacing your windows, give PM Windows & Doors a call at 1-800-479-4499 to book your free in-home estimate. One of our industry leading consultants will introduce you to our lineup of quality products, and assist you in selecting the perfect windows for your home.
It is estimated that roughly 25 percent of the heat loss in your home is through your windows. Installing energy efficient windows will reduce the amount of heat transferred by your windows, which subsequently will reduce your energy consumption and the cost associated with heating and cooling your home. Not all energy efficient windows are constructed the same, there are several factors that lead to energy efficient windows keeping heat in or out of your home.
1. Installation
No matter how your windows are constructed, if they are not installed properly you will have issues. These issues can be with the operation, potential leaks and water damage, or drafts and heat loss, or any combination of these. When adequate insulation is not placed between the frame of your replacement windows and your wall, air can find its way into that crevasse from either inside or outside leading to increased energy consumption. Lack of or incomplete caulking will also result in heat loss and increased energy consumption and costs.
2. Frames
The frames of your windows can be made from a variety of materials including vinyl, wood and aluminium. Vinyl is arguably the most popular choice for today’s windows, as they are low maintenance and offer great energy efficiency. However, just because two windows both have vinyl frames, it doesn’t mean they have the same energy efficiency. Thicker vinyl walls, insulated frames, and multiple air chambers in the frames all add to the frame’s efficiency.
3. Glass Panes
Your glass window panes do not do a great job reducing heat transfer on their own. Single pane windows used in older homes allow for hot and cold air to escape and enter your home at a significantly higher rate than today’s dual and triple paned glass windows. Having multiple panes of glass helps insulate your windows better due to the air pockets between each pane, as air is a poor conductor of heat. A triple paned window will insulate better than a double paned window as there is an additional pocket of air.
4. Low-E Glass
Low-emissivity or Low-E glass has a transparent coating that reflects heat by minimizing the amount of infrared light that can pass through your window, without limiting the amount of natural light that can enter. Choosing Low-E coated glass for your windows will help keep your indoor heated or cooled air inside your home, which will assist in maintaining your chosen internal temperature with less effort from your HVAC system.
5. Gas Filler
As mentioned previously, the air pockets between your window panes are great for reducing heat transfer, but when these pockets are filled with either argon or krypton gas and sealed tight, the efficiency of the window increases. These gasses are heavier than air, and conduct heat at even a lower rate than air, providing better insulation. Both Argon and Krypton gas are transparent, odorless, and safe, so if the seals on your windows ever give out, there is no need for concern.
Your front door is the focal point for anyone that is walking up to or by your home, it plays a major part in your home’s aesthetic appeal, but it is not just a hinged piece of art. Your front door is also the guardian of your home, needing to stand up to whatever mother nature throws its direction as well as would be intruders. But, it also needs to be easily manageable so any member of your family can enter and exit.
When shopping for replacement doors, remember your front entrance needs to be much more than just beautiful, yes overall aesthetics are important, but so is durability and functionality.
1. Aesthetics
There are dozens of options to choose from when looking for a door that matches your style. You can look for a single door, a double door, full glass inserts, partial glass, no glass, side-lite, top-lite and that is just a few. You can have ornate ironwork incorporated into your door and even have any choice of colour you can image. When choosing your entry door, you need to consider how it will fit in with the rest of your home’s exterior design. Choosing a bold colour to accentuate your door is great, but choosing a modern, industrial style door when the rest of your home is rustic and quaint will throw off your home’s styling. Before making your final selection, step back to the curb and envision your new door, does it compliment your home or does it create an imbalance?
2. Durability
Choosing the type of material your door is made of is an important step in the selection process. The material will influence the style options, maintenance requirements, price, and operation. Wood is the traditional choice, it is highly customizable as wood can be cut to fit any entry way. You can stain or paint wood any colour you see fit. Overtime, wood can bend, warp, and rot. Regular upkeep is required with a wood door. Insulated steel doors are one of the more popular choices as they are secure and reliable. Steel doors are more energy efficient than wood, reducing the amount of heat escaping or entering from the door. The downside is that steel doors can dent and may rust. Fiberglass doors give you the look of wood with the security and efficiency of steel. They will not rot or dent and maintenance is limited, however fiberglass is considered a premium material and are priced significantly higher than steel doors.
3. Functionality
Who and how are questions you will need to think about when it comes to your entrance doors function. A solid hardwood door may be difficult for a younger family member to open and close, a door that is constantly facing extreme weather such as rain, snow, wind and sunlight may need a more durable material such as steel. Your door’s efficiency rating is also important as your new door should help you reduce your energy bills, the type of door will dictate by how much.
Choosing the right replacement door for your home should not be taken lightly. The right entrance door will make the first impression of your home count. PM Windows & Doors has a wide selection of entry doors that feature outstanding styling, security, thermal efficiency and comfort for long lasting beauty and easy maintenance. Call today 1-800-479-4499 for a free in-home estimate.
Making the decision to replace your windows is just the first of many decisions you will need to make prior to your new windows being installed. When deliberating which replacement windows are best for your home there are two main categories to keep in mind. Materials and style. Choosing windows that are durable and energy efficient doesn’t mean that you need to forgo the functionality and design you were hoping for. With today’s manufacturing capabilities you can check all the boxes when it comes to the right martial and the right style.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting your replacement windows:
How would you like your windows to operate, should be one of the first questions you ask yourself. Just because you had a sliding window installed previously, doesn’t mean you can’t replace it with a casement window or a double-hung window now. To help you decide how you would like your windows to function, take a step back and focus on the room the windows are being installed in. Make sure you have room and access to the window for it to function properly.
What type of frame you want your windows to have is another important detail, as it could limit the type of window you can order. There are several options for frame, vinyl, wood, and aluminum are some of the more popular but there are also composite frames (made up of wood pieces and plastic) and fiberglass. Each frame has its pros and cons and can have varying cost levels. Vinyl frames are arguably the most popular choice, as they offer excellent energy efficiency, are durable and are a great value versus other materials.
The type of glass you choose your windows to be manufactured with has a big impact on the style and efficiency of your window. Options include double pane or triple pane glass, different thicknesses and types of glass, as well as gases that will fill the space between the panes that will help increase the window’s efficiency. With all these options, it is easy to get a little overwhelmed when looking at glass type, a good place to start is with an energy star certified window. These windows have been tested to ensure they meet efficiency ratings based on the glasses resistance to heat loss and how much heat enters through the glass.
Now that you have the function, and material for your windows chosen, it’s time to focus on style. Your windows have a big influence on your home’s look and feel, both inside and out. So, choosing a colour of your windows to meet your style preference is always an exciting time of the project. Traditional colours are always a safe bet, especially if you are considering selling your home in the future, as a bold choice may not appeal to potential buyers. Keep in mind both the interior and exterior of your home when choosing colour.
Replacing the windows in your home has a lot of advantages, new windows can help reduce your energy consumption, they can give your home a fresh new look and feel, they can provide additional security, and they can help make the space in your home more enjoyable. However, even the best manufactured windows will function poorly if not installed correctly. PM Windows & Doors has been an industry leader since 1984, we use our own qualified, highly trained, certified in-house craftsmen and never outsource our projects. Give us a call today at 1-800-479-4499, and let us show you why we have a long list of customers that have recommended us to their friends and family.
Your windows are one of the best ways to bring the outdoors in from the comfort of your living room. In addition, your windows also help you connect with your exterior home for safety and security.
Choosing the right exterior window style to compliment your personal style, home’s architecture, and environmental needs can be difficult. We offer a variety of replacement windows here at PM Windows, so you’ll have exactly what you need when you’re renovating.
Here are 5 useful tips for choosing the right exterior window style:
1. Know the Purpose of Your Windows
The basic function of windows is to let in light, but they also function as doorways too. For example, a sliding glass window door as an entrance to a porch. Decide what purpose your windows will serve. Is view is essential? Or is light into a dark space more essential? Know the purpose of your windows before you install them.
2. Choose the Right Accent Colours for Frames
Can’t decide what exterior palette to choose? You can look to neighbouring homes for inspiration. You should match your trim colour to your window frame or select a field colour for the home with two accent colours for frames and doors.
3. Choose Windows that Appeal to Interior Style
Although the exterior aesthetic of your windows is important, consider how the window functions and appeals to your interior style. For example, let light into bathroom windows, but don’t provide direct viewing angles from outside. In more public areas, decide if you want a large picture window that lets it maximum light or if the function of the room warrants different sized and shaped windows for interest and more privacy.
4. Match Window to Required Ventilation
Windows allow for ventilation and movement of fresh air in and out of every room. Knowing which type of window suits your needs will help you determine the right type of window. Keep in mind that operable windows, which means they can be opened or closed as needed, also matter for safety in case of fire and other hazards.
5. Use Windows as Focal Point of Your Interior
If you’re looking to take advantage of picturesque views from your property, you should consider the use of various window styles, shapes, and colours to play up your interior and exterior view. For example, bay windows are ideal in kitchens, bathrooms, sitting nook, or dining area in a sunroom.
Your windows won’t last forever, even if you have the best quality. Windows typically last approximately 15 to 20 years. However, this is dependent on many factors such as how well they are maintained and the type of frame material you choose. If your windows are old, damaged, and deteriorating, the security and overall comfort of your home becomes a problem.
When was the last time you checked the conditions of your windows? You can tell if your windows are bad by making a few observations and doing some tests. When your windows are bad, they won’t perform as they once did, so it’s time for replacement windows. Here are 5 signs that indicate it is time to change your windows:
1. Draft
Do you feel a draft in your home even when your windows are closed? A drafty window can change the overall temperature in your home causing your HVAC system to work twice as hard to keep up with the fluctuating temperature. Drafts often occur when the window doesn’t shut properly. You can check to determine whether your windows are allowing air into the house by holding a candle or lighter around the edges of your window. If the flame wavers, then your window isn’t doing the job it should.
2. Condensation
Do you notice that your windows are frosting between the layers of glass? You should check which kind of condensation you’re dealing with. Condensation may not be a cause for concern depending on where it’s appearing on the window. However, if you regularly see condensation building up on your windows in between the two panes of glass, then it means that your seals have failed.
3. High Energy Bills
Bad and inefficient windows can have a significant impact on your home’s insulation. If there’s more heat that is able to escape your home, the more your HVAC system will have to work to keep up with the fluctuating temperature. You can check this by standing next to your window to see if it feels coolers than the rest of your room.
4. Functionality
Do you have difficulty in opening, closing, and locking your windows? Old, damaged, and deteriorating windows can be challenging to open and close. You should replace your windows because it can impact the safety of your home and be a vital escape route in the event of an emergency.
5. Outside Noise
Do you hear a lot of outside noise? If so, your windows are providing little protection from outside noise. This is an indicator that your windows are old, were probably sealed incorrectly, or were made poorly, to begin with. If you live in a busy street and want to enjoy some peace and quiet, you should invest in double-pane or triple-pane windows for noise reduction.
Purchasing replacement windows for your home is one of the best decisions you can make for an impactful home renovation that will leave your home with the best curb appeal possible. Besides, replacement windows will enhance the value of your home and improve its energy efficiency.
However, before the installation of the new windows begins, you need to prepare adequately to make the process smooth, hassle-free, and void of post-installation problems. Therefore, follow the tips below to prepare for the procedure.
1. Pre-installation Visit to Your Home
Before the installation of the replacement windows begins, you should schedule a meeting with the installer to decide when to visit your home for an on-site assessment. Walking through your home will give the installer the opportunity of the first-hand view of your home and will be able to prepare how they will move in the replacement windows and other materials.
2. Preparation of Your Home
You need to prepare your home for the installation process at least a day before. Takedown the window treatments such as curtains, blinds, draperies, etc. Move the furniture away from the windows, remove potted flowers outside the windows, cut the necessary shrubs to create access, etc. This will provide the installers with a clear path in and outside the home.
3. Cover Essential Properties
Although most installation companies usually come with drop cloths to protect your properties from becoming dusty, you need to plan about what items you need to cover in the rooms that the replacement windows will be repaired. Covering up the necessary items will reduce the rate of cleaning that will be required after the installation process.
4. Turn off AC/Heater
Prepare ahead for the day of installation as your home will be open. So, running your HVAC system will be pointless as the coolness or warmth will escape through free window space. As a result, keep your kids warm as the case may be and turn off your HVAC.
5. Be Available and Let the Installation Begin
You must be available on the day your replacement windows will be installed. Otherwise, arrange with a family or friend to come around and make your home accessible. Then the installation can start.
Follow the tips above to prepare for the installation of your replacement windows. Ask the installer whatever will be needed to get ready for the day. Get prepared for a new experience with your new windows.
Are you thinking of replacing your windows and doors? Have you chosen your preferred replacement windows to purchase to replace worn-out windows or give your home a new look? Do you desire to know what factors affect the installation of replacement windows and doors? Do not worry; read this write-up to the end to be fully informed and know how to get the best results for your replacement project.
It is essential to know certain factors that can affect your window and door replacement. Regardless of the quality of the replacement windows and doors, the windows and doors may not be installed properly. Therefore, here are the factors that affect window and door replacement.
1. Measurement
The window and door space must be measured correctly, as this will affect the fabrication of the replacement windows and doors. An incorrect measurement will undoubtedly cause a lot of hassles during installation. If the situation is well-managed, anyone with prying eyes will notice the imperfection, even though it may be perfect. As a result, you should ensure that all the parts of the windows and doors are correctly measured to have the ideal replacement windows and doors for the success of the project.
2. The positioning of the Window
The main issue here is the placement of the window about the size of the wall. The installer has to be experienced in installing replacement windows correctly. The size of the wall is an excellent determinant in positioning the window during installation. How accurately the windows are installed will impact their durability, rate of window condensation, rate of damage to the window’s mechanism. As a result, you should hire an experienced installer for the installation of replacement windows and doors.
3. Installation Process
Each step during the installation of replacement windows and doors contributes to their functionality, efficiency, and durability. The correct use of shims will ensure the proper performance of the installed windows. Also, the windows must be set correctly to ensure that they are installed plumb, square, and level.
4. Insulation Foam
Another factor that affects the installation of replacement windows and doors is the proper use and placement of insulation foam. Meanwhile, the gap between the window frame and the framing is a significant determinant here. And an experienced installer will ensure the appropriate use of foam gun and caulking where necessary.
Having known the factors that affect the installation of replacement windows, the onus is on the homeowner and the contractor to ensure the correct measurement of the window space and installation process.