5 Frequently Asked Questions About Windows And Doors Replacement

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Windows And Doors Replacement

Now, not all homeowners will need to replace their windows and doors. Some may not need to if the home they purchased has already installed new windows and doors that are durable and energy-efficient. For others, it is necessary to replace their doors and windows to keep heat in, keep cold out, and save money. Also, some may want to upgrade the look of their home with new windows and doors. Here are 5 frequently asked questions about windows and doors replacement:

1. How do I know my windows and doors need replacing?

This largely depends on the age of the windows and doors. You can replace them if they are 25 years old or more. This helps maximize the energy efficiency that comes with new windows and doors. You can also replace them if you notice drafts or condensation on the window panes and doors or if they become difficult to open.

2. Can new doors and windows lower my energy consumption?

When you upgrade with energy-saving doors and vinyl windows, you will see several benefits. You do not have to paint your windows because vinyl does not get discolored. Vinyl also doesn’t warp so the seal of the vinyl windows will always remain.

3. What types of windows and doors can I get?

Windows and doors differ in style, size, and color. For doors, there are wooden, fiberglass, and steel doors. For windows, you can browse through several options according to your taste.

4. What do I need to do?

When a rep has told you all about the replacement process, find out what they expect from you. Ask if you need to remove curtains and blinds or if you have to move furniture or protect your floors.

5. Many new windows contain argon gas, why is it used?

Argon gas is non-toxic and is used between panes to reduce heat transfer between the glass panes. Argon mitigates heat and cold by reducing air movement. It rewards users with a better-insulated window as it spreads cold and hot air throughout the entire windowpane, reducing the invasion of cold and heat leakage.


5 Unique Ways to Use Patio Doors in Your Home

5 Unique Ways to Use Patio Doors in Your Home

When you think of a patio door, most of us envision a sliding glass door that leads to a back patio or yard. While this may be the most popular use and style for patio doors, it is not the only one. Consider alternative uses and style for your next patio door replacement. Patio doors can be used to add more beauty and luxury to your home, you only need to think of their unique uses.

To assist you to beautify your home with patio doors, here are 5 unique ways to use patio doors in your home.

Combine with oversized sidelights to create a window wall

Having the ability to combine your indoor and outdoor spaces is a luxury that unfortunately not every home can achieve. By creating an unobstructed view from the inside of your home to your yard, you will be able to create the feeling that your indoor space flows into your yard.

Choose a colourful, modern patio door

Patio doors are traditionally white, with fairly plain frames, but with emerging trends, there are plenty of other options available. You have the option of selecting from a wide range of colourful patio door options. Many manufacturers use uPVC, timber and aluminum frames to create patio doors with varying colours. The inside and outside colours of your doors can also differ.

Install space-saving sliding patio doors on your balcony

Another unique way to use patio doors in your home is to install a sliding patio door on your balcony. This space-saving door will make your home look modern and bring more natural light into the space.  In addition, sliding patio doors can play an important role in improving the thermal performance of your home. They are also easy to maintain, durable, and capable of resisting weather problems.

Combine French doors with sidelites and transoms

With a transom above your doors and sidelites along the sides of your doors, your patio door will look oversized and will also allow for plenty of light to enter your home. This style will also add additional visual emphasis on the door itself. Undoubtedly, it is a great combination for anyone that wants to make a bold statement with their patio door replacement.

Install patio doors in your home office

Spruce up your home office with a set of patio doors. With the aid of patio doors, you can easily ensure that your workspace is separated from the rest of your home to ensure that you can complete your work with little or no disturbance.

When it comes to a patio door replacement, you do not need to choose an identical replacement, there are many options available. On the same note, patio doors are not just to be used to access your yard, they can be used in varying ways around your home.


Vinyl Vs Aluminum Windows: Which Is The Better Choice?

Vinyl Vs Aluminum Windows: Which Is The Better Choice?

The windows in your home are essential for many reasons as they serve as both functional and aesthetic fixtures. When it comes time to consider taking on a window replacement project for part of or your entire home, one of the more important factors that needs to be considered is what frame material will your new windows be constructed of.  While it’s important to work around your budget, you also want to ensure you are getting top quality materials and construction. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses between your different options can help you make the right decision for your home well before your window replacement sales representative comes to give you a quote.

Below we compare vinyl and aluminum windows to help you along with your decision making.

Maintenance 

Aluminum windows are that challenging to maintain, but do require more attention than the virtually maintenance free vinyl windows. Aluminum windows will require some upkeep to keep them in excellent condition. Since there can be condensation build up, there is a chance for  mold growth and rust. There are specialised cleaners to help prevent these issues. Lubricating moving parts will help keep them from suffering from excessive wear.

Energy-Efficiency

Both vinyl and aluminum windows offer some level of energy efficiency. However, vinyl windows are more energy efficient because they are designed to reduce heat transfer and limits light from coming in from outside. This ultimately helps maintain the internal temperature of your home and reduce the need to rely on your HVAC system keep your home comfortable. Aluminum is a natural conductor of heat, this means more heat can penetrate through in the summer and more heat can escape in the winter which will lead to an increase reliance on your heating and cooling systems to regulate the temperature.

Appearance 

Many homeowners find the thinner frames of aluminum windows to be more attractive and more modern than the thicker vinyl frames. Aluminum windows are available in a variety of colours and shades and can also be painted down the road if you are wishing to update the look, Vinyl windows are also available in a variety of colours, although less than aluminum.

Durability and Lifespan

One of the factors to consider when looking into a windows replacement is your local weather conditions. Here in Ontario we do face some extreme conditions, but the temperatures tend to change gradually and we do not have very many extreme temperature shifts. In a place with these extreme temperature changes, aluminum windows may be the better option because of their ability to withstand extreme climates. Vinyl windows are not as durable as aluminum windows in the climates, but they do fare well in a place with moderate weather condition changes, as well with vinyl windows you do not need to worry about corrosion.

Ease of Installation

When installing either a vinyl or aluminum window, it is best to always hire a professional to get the job done. It is usually easier to install vinyl windows because of the flexibility of the material. Since aluminum is not a flexible material, installation can be more challenging and may require more effort.

Affordability

It is essential to have your budget in mind with any home improvement project and a window replacement is no different. Generally, vinyl windows are less costly to both purchase and have installed than aluminum windows. The cost associated with your replacement may also vary depending on the manufacturer, size, colour options, and location of installation.

Both Vinyl and Aluminum windows are great options for window replacement, with each having its strengths and weaknesses. If you still need clarification on which option is best for you, you can contact a window replacement expert within your area to further discuss your options.


What are the Main Types of Windows?

What are the Main Types of Windows?

When it comes time for a window replacement, you have the option of several window styles that offer differing features and designs. Some window styles are more popular than other due to their ease of use or versatility when it comes to fitting in certain opening sizes. Here we will cover the most common window styles and provide a brief description for each.

It should be noted that this list is in no particular order.

1. Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows are arguably one of the most common window styles used for residential homes today. Double hung windows evolved from the once extremely popular sing hung window, and even though both window styles look alike, their operations are quite different. Both the upper and lower sashes of double-hung windows are operational allowing for the opening to be higher or lower. In single hung windows, only the lower sash is operable.

Double hung windows offer more ventilation than their predecessor and are also more convenient to clean, as it can be completed from the inside of your home.

2. Casement Windows

If there was a window style that would challenge the double hung window for the most popular, it would be casement windows. They come with side hinges that allow them to open outward with the use of a crank. Most of them feature large glass panes that ensure that they can offer lots of natural light to enter a room. Casement windows are a great option for rooms that need ample ventilation as their sash can open a full 90 degrees. Not only do they allow for plenty of light and ventilation, casement windows have excellent energy performance and are very secure due to their tight seal when the locking mechanism is engaged.

3. Awning Windows

Awning windows are similar to casement windows as they also open outward utilizing a crank system. The main difference is that their hinges are located at the top of the frame, meaning they open upwards instead of to the left or right. They can play a key role in bringing lots of ventilation into a room. As a result of this, awning windows are often combined with large picture windows that will allow for plenty of light to enter a room. Additionally, they can be installed above a door offering additional ventilation and natural light.

Notably, you should not install awning windows around a walkway, pathway, or other areas with traffic. This is because they are capable of obstructing the path.

4. Picture Windows

These window styles are perfect for anyone looking to have an unobstructed view of the exterior of their home. Picture windows do not open, meaning that they are made of full glass, no screens or center frames to impede your view. They are great for rooms where you are comfortable sacrificing air flow for that perfect view. Picture windows do compensate for the lack of ventilation with ample natural sunlight.

It should be noted that picture windows can be combined with other window types such as awning windows if you want the view and the air flow.

5. Slider windows

As the name indicates, slider windows are windows that slide side to side to open. These awesome windows provide lots of ventilation and views of the outside. However, they may be difficult to seal when closing. Hence, you tend to gain and lose heat easily.

Apart from their locks, sliding windows don’t have any mechanical parts. Consequently, they are easy to clean and maintain.

6. Bay Windows

If you want to create beautiful views and angles in your home, bay windows are a great option to consider. They enable light to come into a room from various angles and are good for family rooms, studies and kitchens. To ensure you get the look and the ventilation, you can combine bay windows with casement or double hung windows to help increase the airflow.

These are just a few of the main window replacement styles available, to fully grasp the options for your window replacement project, speak with your window contractor regarding your options.


What are the Benefits of Vinyl Windows?

What are the Benefits of Vinyl Windows?

Are you looking for a window replacement for your home? If so, vinyl windows are an amazing option! This is because of the numerous benefits that vinyl windows are capable of offering to your property.

Here are some of the benefits of vinyl windows.

1. They are durable

Vinyl windows are known to be good at withstanding various weather conditions. Therefore, regardless of where you live, you can be certain that your vinyl windows will last for several years. Typically, vinyl windows can last for about twenty years or even longer with proper maintenance.

2. They are affordable

If you have a small budget and need quality windows, vinyl windows are the best option for you. These windows are made with materials that are easy to create and manufacture. As a result, they often come at relatively affordable prices. However, when it comes to window replacement, the style, size, and additional features of the vinyl windows can affect their prices. Make sure to factor in labour costs and installation fees when purchasing vinyl windows.

3. They are easy to maintain

Vinyl windows don’t require any special products to clean them. All you need is water and mild detergent. The windows hardly fade, chip, or scratch. In addition, there is no need to repaint or sand the windows. Therefore, maintaining your vinyl windows is quite easy and simple.

4. They are faster to install

Since vinyl is versatile and lightweight, the window can be installed easily and quickly. A window installation company can install the windows within a few hours. Since installation of vinyl windows is less labour intensive, it helps make them more affordable.

5. They are available in different color options

Vinyl windows have one of the widest ranges of color choices. Vinyl windows can be anything from neutral colours like white, black or beige to bold colours such as royal blue.

6. They are soundproof

Due to the insulating ability of vinyl windows, they are also good at blocking outside noise. These windows reduce the noise coming into your home, making your house more peaceful and relaxing.

7. They can increase your home value

Having windows in good condition significantly increases the value of your home.

If your windows are not in good condition, you should consider window replacement now. Due to the numerous benefits mentioned above, most homebuyers prefer homes with vinyl windows. Therefore, using vinyl windows for your home can boost its value.

Takeaway

If you are considering a window replacement, choose vinyl windows for your home! As mentioned above, they come with many added benefits from being affordable to looking aesthetic. Contact a window replacement specialist today to find out more about vinyl windows!


5 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Windows and Doors

5 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Windows and Doors

Replacing your windows and doors can be a big and very expensive project. However, there are some cases where biting the bullet on replacement costs is a must! Find out below when it's time to contact an expert to replace your windows and doors in London.

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Garden Door vs Patio Door: What's Best For You?

Garden Door vs Patio Door: What's Best For You?

For décor enthusiast, garden doors or patio doors are great ways to transform your outdoor space.  Depending on your personal décor style and preference, you can customize your patio/ garden doors to fit your décor needs.  

Both a garden door and a patio door will allow you to access your indoor and outdoor space freely. However, they each possess unique features. Listed below are major differences between a garden door and a patio door.

The Structural Design

Patio doors are comprised of sliding glass door panels designed to open and close by sliding horizontally on tracks. On the contrary, garden doors can have glass panels fitted within a door that is hinged allowing the door to swing inwards or outwards. 

Costs

Depending on your customized design and choice of material, garden doors are relatively costly to install as compared to patio doors. Similarly, with proper maintenance, the solid glass style used in patio doors tend to last longer compared to those used in garden door. Patio doors are therefore more cost-effective in the long run.

Availability of Space

For limited or restricted space, a sliding patio door may be a better choice versus a garden door. A garden door requires a lot of space for the frames and hinges to allow the door to swing inwards or outwards to access your outdoors, especially for double doors. 

The View

The reflective quality of the large glass door panels of the patio door design allows for maximum natural light to enter your living space from the outdoor. It also allows you to have an unobstructed view of your backyard from the comfort of your home.

However, the large frames, hinges, or intricate designs of a garden door design acts as an obstruction allowing less light in your space.

Appearance

A traditional patio door’s design has large, reflective glass panels that add a contemporary and modern feel to your outdoor space. Modern homeowners mostly favour this look.   Garden doors allow you to add texture and colour to your frames and hinges, thus giving a more elegant, polished and sophisticated feel to your outdoor and living space.

Privacy

The unobstructed view due to the large glass panels and smaller frames of patio doors offer less privacy as everything is in plain view, and anyone can see right through your living space. However, with a garden door, the large customized frames and hinges can obstruct some view, thus providing a sense of privacy 

Safety

The sliding rack for the patio doors is known to cause accidents like tripping and falling when one is not careful. Whereas, garden doors are fitted with sills that help prevent the occurrence of trip and falls.

Custom designed patio doors and garden doors are a  great way to improve the aesthetic appeal of your living space and your outdoor space. However, they both possess unique features that will prove to be beneficial when deciding which option to select. With proper installation and maintenance, both patio and garden doors can serve you well for a long time to come.


What Should I Look for in Replacement Windows?

What Should I Look for in Replacement Windows?

Windows play a crucial role in any home, they keep us safe, offer ventilation, improve your home’s aesthetic appeal and provide us with an unobstructed view of your home’s external environment. When planning your home’s window replacement, it can be somewhat challenging to select from the different types and style available. The last thing any homeowner wants is to invest their money in windows that don't suit their needs.

We polled our team of window consultants and asked them to share what clients should look for in replacement windows, below is what they shared;

Energy Efficient

Some of the top questions clients have about their replacement windows revolve around energy efficiency. After all, the more efficient their new windows are, the more money they will save on their energy bills. Questions include what is the difference between triple pane and double pane windows? What is a Low-E coating? And What benefit does Argon gas offer?

Style

Replacement windows are available in a wide range of styles, and each one comes with its own advantages and potential downsides. So, you will want to choose replacement windows that are style-appropriate. Some of the more popular options include side-hung, double-hung, sliders, bay, bow, casement, and awning windows. It’s best to choose a style that complements your home’s architectural style.
You can opt to have your replacement windows custom-made to combine various styles to suit your unique needs.

Cost

The cost of replacement windows is a major consideration for most homeowners, as they are looking to stay within budget and still be able to find the best replacement windows for their home. Some of the factors that may affect the cost of your replacement windows include brand, energy efficiency options, material, size and any customizations such as colour.

Framing Material

When choosing replacement windows for your home, it's advisable to determine the frame material that would best suit your needs. The common framing materials to choose from include wood, fiberglass, vinyl, and aluminum. Each of these various framing materials for replacement windows differ in durability, appearance, insulation qualities, and other aspects.

Wood frames are known for their natural beauty, but do require some effort to maintain. Fiberglass frames are extremely durable and weather resistant but come at a slightly hire cost. Vinyl frames offer excellent insulation and are fairly maintenance free.

Keeping the above considerations in mind when choosing windows for your next replacement project will help you make an informed decision.

If you are in need of high-quality window replacement services in London or the surrounding areas, contact Riverbend Windows & Doors at 226-688-8652.


Should I Replace All Windows At Once?

Should I Replace All Windows At Once?

Your home windows are your gateway to the outside. They provide you with a view, allow you to keep watch of the kids playing in the yard and provide warm, natural light to penetrate your home. However, there is a lot to consider when your windows begin to breakdown and are coming close to the end of their lifespan. Do I replace only the windows that are showing signs of failure or replace them all? What styles and functions should I consider? And who can we trust to properly install our windows? Are just a few of the questions you will need to resolve before replacing any of your windows.

We asked our design experts the first of these questions “Should a home owner replace all of their windows at once?”, here is what they had to share on the topic.

Home Aesthetics

One of the aspects to think about when choosing a window replacement is aesthetics. Replacing every window in your home can significantly increase your home’s aesthetic appeal. It will also keep your home looking uniform as there will be no mismatching windows. If you are not able to replace all of your windows at the same time, consider replacing them based on areas of your home. For example, if you need to replace a few windows in the front of your home, try to replace all of the windows on that side at the same time. This allows for a uniform exterior for the front of your home.

Functionality

Once your windows reach a certain age, they may not function as well as they once did. Hinges give out, cranks break, frames warp and the overall functionality significantly decreases. When looking to replace your windows, put a priority on the ones that are giving you the most issues to operate. Just keep in mind, if all of your windows are the same age and several have already begun to not function optimally anymore, the others will be following suit soon.

Interior Design

Aesthetics apply to the interior of your home, too. Many rooms have only one or two windows, so replacing those can help boost the appearance of the room. However, if you have several windows in the same room and one is damaged, you might want to replace them all as replacing a single window in a room with multiple windows may seem a bit awkward.

Budget

Replacing all of the windows in your home at once, comes with significant expense. You can decide whether this option is best for you after receiving several quotes. Replacing your windows all at the same time have many benefits, but if it is not in the budget to do so, focus on those windows that are causing the most issues or look into financing options.

Energy Efficiency

If you’re unsure whether you should replace all your windows, you should consider the energy efficiency benefits. New energy efficient windows will reduce the amount of heat loss and gain during the winter and summer months, reducing your reliance on your HVAC system and reducing your energy bills.

Ultimately, making the decision whether you should replace all of your windows at once needs to be done based on your current situation. Yes, there are many benefits of doing so, but it is not necessary to replace all of your windows at the same time.


What Should You Look for In A New Door?

What Should You Look for In A New Door?

The average lifespan of an entry door is 15-20 years, so chances are every home owner will need to go through the door replacement process at some point. A new entry door can improve your home’s aesthetic appeal, as well as your home’s energy efficiency and increase the noise reduction capabilities and security. However, with so many different form and function options available in new replacement doors, what should you be looking for?

To help you make the best choice for you and your home, we asked our door replacement expert to share their thoughts. The top tips have been shared below:

Door Material

Door materials range from wood, aluminum, steel, vinyl, and fiberglass. All of these materials are good options but have different strengths and weaknesses. It's important to choose the right material that fits your needs, can handle your usage patterns and can withstand your local weather conditions. Outlining the different materials is a task for a future blog, for now a quick Google search will provide you with more information on the different door material types.

Aesthetics

Your entry door influences your home’s curb appeal. When choosing a new front door, choosing one that represents your style will help incorporate your style into the home. There are no rules when it comes to home decor, but if you want your home to have a universal appeal, try and keep the doors aesthetic in line with your home’s architectural design.

Energy Efficiency

Increased energy efficiency is a major benefit of replacing your windows and doors. However, not all doors are made equally, and the efficiency rating will vary between one door to another. Any door you look to purchase should have an energy label affixed to it. This label indicates the level of energy efficiency of doors, the higher the efficiency rating the more the door will be able to reduce the amount you spend on your energy bills over time.

Locking Mechanism

A primary function of any external door is security. The door’s durability is important, but ultimately the locking mechanism is the most important security aspect. In most cases the locking mechanism and other hardware are sold separately from the door itself, so you have various options when choosing the right hardware to go with your new door. For extra security, you can opt to go with a multi-point locking system.

Installation

Installing a replacement door may be a good DIY project, but like any moving component in your home, the product is only as good as the installation. A professional windows and doors specialist will be able to install your new door properly, ensuring it is perfectly square and that proper screws are used, but they are also able to inspect the condition of the materials around the door and ensure that there is enough insulation around the frame to maintain higher efficiency levels.