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.
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?
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 is the Difference between Double and Single Hung Windows?
Although single hung windows and double hung windows have some well-known similarities, and look very similar, they are not exactly identical as there are various factors that differentiate the two.
Both single hung and double hung window styles have two sashes. However, a single hung window’s top sash is fixed, meaning you cannot open and close it. The bottom sash is however operational, allowing for movement. On the other hand, double hung windows have two operational sashes, both top and bottom.
While this is the major difference between these two window styles, there are other differences that set them apart. We review these differences below:
Double hung windows are costlier
When it comes to the initial cost of installation, double hung windows are more expensive than the single hung alternatives. This is because of the more intricate manufacturing process and installation process. If you are on a tight budget for your window replacement, single hung windows will be the more economical option.
Single hung windows are more commonly used
Single hung windows have been around for several decades before the introductions of the double hung version. Therefore, it should not come as a surprise that single hung windows are more common. You are very likely going to find single hung windows in many older homes, but many modern homes still incorporate this style.
Double hung windows are easier to clean and maintain
Since it is possible to open both sashes of a double hung window, you have a much easier time cleaning the entire window (inside and out) from inside your home. However, with single hung windows you do not have the same convenience. This is because you cannot open the top sash. So, you will need to clean it from the outside and will probably require the use of a ladder.
Single hung windows tend to be more energy efficient
The energy efficiency of windows can be quite tricky to determine, as there are many factors that can influence a windows efficiency. But in most cases, single hung windows are more energy-efficient than their double hung counterparts. This is because they have less moving parts, leaving less crevasse for air and heat to escape.
Double hung windows provide more of ventilation
Because you can open both sashes of a double hung window, it allows for more air to flow into your home than a single hung window. This particular factor can make a big difference in your comfort level as well as your heating and cooling costs.
Single hung windows may require fewer repairs
Since single hung windows do not have as many moving parts, they have less that can potentially go wrong. However, if the damage is a broken window, double hung sashes are easier to repair or replace as they are not fixed into place.
When considering your different window replacement options, consider all of the features, conveniences, styles and costs before making your final decision. Riverbend Windows & Doors Inc is your local London, Ontario and surrounding area windows and doors specialist. Give us a call at (226) 688-8652 to discuss your replacement window options.
When Should You Replace Windows and Doors?
From increasing your home’s appeal to increase its energy-efficiency and providing security for your family, the importance of your windows and doors cannot be overemphasized. Most windows and doors are very durable and only require minimum maintenance allowing them to last for decades and decades. Their longevity is definitely a benefit, but it is also the reason that many homeowners do not pay the proper attention to their windows and doors. Like most other parts of your home, your window and doors should be inspected and maintained at a minimum annually (if not twice a year). This inspection will give you a better understanding of the condition of your windows and doors and will hopefully allow you to notice any minor issues before the escalate to larger issues.
Below we have outlined several key indicators to look out for when inspecting your windows and doors.
1. Age of Your Windows and Doors
It is important to know the number of years that your windows and doors have been in use for. Age alone is not an indicator of much, but most windows and doors have a lifespan of 20-25 years and if yours are getting close to this age, it is important to keep an eye out for potential signs of damage, wear, and even breakdowns.
2. Appearance and Style
Sometimes an upgrade is simply needed for aesthetic purposes. When completing your annual inspection, take a walk back to the sidewalk or street and look at your home. Are your windows and doors adding to or taking away from your home’s curb appeal? If they are not adding to your home’s aesthetic, can they be fixed or updated, perhaps with some fresh paint? If the answer is ‘not really’ you know it will be time to start planning for an upgrade.
3. Cracked and Missing Caulking
The caulking that surrounds your window and door frames plays a very important role. Its job is to seal and close the small space between the window or door frame and your home. This ensures that water, bugs , and extreme temperatures are not able to penetrate into your home. However, over time this caulking begins to breakdown, shrink, and even deteriorate. Once this happens, gaps appear around your window and doors frames allowing for air, pests, and water to make their way in. All of these have the potential to cause damage to your home as well as the windows and doors themselves. If neglected, the damage caused by this type of exposure will lead to the need for replacement windows and or doors.
4. Damage
Damage to the glass or to the frames of your windows and doors may be difficult to notice at times. That is why completing a thorough inspection is important. Small cracks and bends will all affect the operation of your windows and doors making it difficult to operate or leaving them exposed to security breaches from potential intruders.
Completing an annual inspection of your windows and doors will reveal any potential issues that need your attention, it is also one of many ways to identify when to replace windows and doors as you can compare the year over year wear and tear that your windows and doors have faced.
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Windows?
As a homeowner, do you know the indicators for when you should look into replacing the windows and doors in your home? Considering that replacing your windows is one of those home improvement projects that most homeowners will only be involved in once or twice in their lifetime, chances are you probably don’t have a ton of experience with inspecting your windows to assess their condition.
To help out with this process, we asked a few of our technicians to share some tips that will help you answer the question; when should you replace windows in your home?
Here is what they shared:
When your windows are broken or damaged
The consensus was that this is the most obvious sign that you need to replace a window. Trying to repair cracked, broken, damaged or warped windows hardly ever works. The damage not only leaves your home susceptible to intruders, it reduces your home’s energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
When your windows are simply ugly and outdated
In some situations, your windows may still function well, but they look dingy and worn out. These worn down windows won’t accentuate the beauty of your home, they will take away from it! Your home should exude pride of ownership, and at times upgrading your windows and doors is the best way to do this and increase your property’s curb appeal.
When your energy bills spike
When your windows and doors are functional, they should be able to prevent the outside weather conditions from disrupting the interior environment of your home. However, if your windows are not functioning optimally, you will begin to feel drafts inside your home. Resultantly, you will be forced to increase your heating and cooling system usage more than you ought to. This, in turn, will increase your energy bills. So, when you notice that your energy bills are higher than expected, your windows and doors may be to blame.
When your windows lack the latest energy saving features
Advancements in technology, have led to significantly more efficient windows. These windows will not only help you save money on your energy consumption, they will help you be more comfortable in your home, as you shouldn’t have any hot or cold spots in your home. Some of these features include Low-E glass and argon gas filled.
When you struggle to close or open your windows
Closing or opening your windows should be done effortlessly. If you have to struggle with your windows when operating them, there is an issue already. Over time, these stubborn windows will become increasingly difficult to operate, leaving them relatively useless.
When you can clearly hear outside noise
Your windows and doors should block most of the outside from entering your home, except when they are open of course. If your windows are closed and you can still hear everything going on outside of your home or business fairly clearly, you know your windows are no longer able to complete their task as expected.
There are many reasons for why you should be replacing your windows and our technicians have seen them all. From windows that are being held together by duct tape to ones that have warped so badly, that you could stick a pen through the gap between the frame and the wall. But, you don’t need to wait for your windows to get to this condition before you call in a professional. Follow the tips shared above when inspecting your windows, and you will be able to diagnose if your windows are ready to be replaced or if they still have some life left in them.
Vinyl Fact + Fiction
The Facts About Today’s Vinyl
Vinyl is composed of ingredients from nature: chlorine (based on common salt) and ethylene (from natural gas). By employing further chemistry, vinyl can be made clear or colourful, thick or thin, flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid. Part of the beauty of affordable, energy-efficient and versatile vinyl is that it can last a lifetime. With long life cycles and natural fire resistance, vinyl is highly sustainable. No wonder vinyl is a major component in residential and commercial construction, wires and cables, consumer items and healthcare products.
Cutting Condensation
Another key benefit of vinyl windows is their ability to resist condensation (minimizing the presence of mold and mildew). Condensation appears when airborne moisture settles on cold surfaces (like glass). Since vinyl has low conductivity, the interior surface of vinyl windows remains relatively close to room temperature and, therefore, less susceptible to condensation. In extreme cases, condensation from non-vinyl window materials can produce frost or ice build-up on the interior of a window.
Myths and Truths About Vinyl
Myths and Truths About Vinyl
1. Vinyl cannot be recycled – FALSE!
Because vinyl is thermoplastic, vinyl products can be repeatedly melted and remoulded. Vinyl waste, trim and off-spec material (recycled from the vinyl production process) can add up to more than 1 billion pounds per year. This means that 99% of all manufactured vinyl is fabricated into finished products and avoiding landfills (according to the 1999 Principia Partners study, Post-Industrial and Post-Consumer Vinyl Reclaim) . In fact, post-industrial vinyl recycling has proven so viable that its price is indexed in leading plastic industry publications.
2. Vinyl is a major source of dioxin – FALSE!
Dioxin is an unwanted by-product of incineration, uncontrolled burning and certain industrial processes. Through regulation and voluntary efforts, releases of dioxin into the environment have been dramatically reduced.
Vinyl is an extremely small source of dioxin. So small, in fact, that levels in the environment would be essentially unchanged even if vinyl were not being manufactured and used in important everyday products. The vinyl industry has studied and worked diligently to reduce its contribution to dioxin.
In fact, according to the latest data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), vinyl manufacturing creates only grams of dioxin per year (which equates to less than one-half of one percent of all dioxins generated annually)!
3. Vinyl contributes to the danger of building fires – FALSE!
Fire science shows that the greatest hazards in a building fire are heat and carbon monoxide (CO) – a lethal, odorless gas produced in abundance by virtually all burning materials. If any hydrogen chloride (HCL) – an irritant gas with a pungent odour – is released, it can serve as a fire warning.
Because the vinyl polymer is made from 57% common salt (a plentiful natural resource which, by its nature, resists combustion), it can help slow down fires and save lives! Vinyl is one of the few materials meeting the stringent National Electrical Code of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for insulating electrical and data transmission cables and airplane interiors.
Vinyl: Sustaining Life…for Generations
Versatile, energy-efficient vinyl provides a vital role in sustaining the environment. Products made from vinyl can (and will) last for generations and contribute to sustainable green building standards. As technology advances, vinyl will continue to evolve as a part of life.
Are Window Replacements a Good Investment?
With all the talk about window replacement, one cannot but start to wonder if new windows are needed for their home as well. There have been several concluded benefits that homeowners can get from window replacement such as higher energy efficiency, the best technological advancements, increased security, improved quality of insulation, protection from UV damage and protection from difficult weather conditions. Besides helping to maintain a healthy and energy efficient household, new window also prove to be a large investment return as they partake in increasing home value.
The Numbers
Depending on the material and work involved, a window replacement can cost from $200 to $1200. The factors which influence pricing are the type of window, the amount of manual work, energy efficiency, window size and window material. This would have posed an issue for many homeowners if energy efficient windows didn’t cut up 15% of energy bills while also adding a large chunk of dollars to a home’s value. With thorough research and price comparison, you can get around the pricing and find the ideal window solution at the same time. For instance, vinyl is one of the least expensive window materials ($100-$900) and the most energy efficient one. The bigger the amount you spend on energy efficient windows in your home, the bigger will be the value on the cheque when you decide to sell. That is why investing in vinyl windows has an investment return of 89%. If wisely done, investing in a $9000 vinyl upgrade can add to $8000 on a home’s value.
Functionality
Some things are overlooked when you move into a new home. With time, those things start to become visible and annoying like for instance bumping your head from the outside window. The way the space of your home is organized has a large role in practicality. That is why room size and function should always influence the type of windows chosen for them. For instance, sliding windows are recommended for smaller rooms because of minimum space blockage. Furthermore, picture windows are installed in areas which have less access to natural light and awning windows are usually found in bathrooms because of the 45 angled openings which provide the best possible air breeze. Windows should also be installed according to the best possible route of exit. This means that when replacing your windows, you should take into consideration your emergency exit plan. With proper and detailed planning, new windows can improve the functionality in your home.
Comfort Satisfaction
Another thing that can happen with the passage of time is loss of functionality and therefore comfort. Each type of window has a unique life span. Sometimes it is 40 years and sometimes 15. Add bad weather into the mix and those numbers can cut in half. To increase the comfort in your home you can always go with window replacement. A big part of comfort is room temperature. Poorly functioning windows will interfere with the temperature you have set for the room. They won’t absorb hot air in the summer and cool air in the winter. In fact, they will let it all in right in front of your nose. This is one of the main reasons why window replacement has a significant impact on energy efficiency. Another threat for comfort is poor soundproofing. As thermostatic energy, noise should also be absorbed by windows. If you are constantly bothered by your neighbors’ rattle, a simple investment in glass upgrade will definitely tighten the seals and ensure you an unwanted-noise free home environment.
Riverbend Windows & Doors
We have the best quality windows and doors at Riverbend, Inc. Browse through our inventory for stylish, durable and eco-freindly windows in London.
5 Signs You Need To Replace Your Windows
How do you know when it’s time to replace your windows? At times it can be tough to gauge when it is time to replace your windows. There are more reasons than just visible damage and deterioration to consider replacing your windows such efficiency, operation, and aesthetics.
Below we have highlighted 5 signs that it may be time to replace your windows. On a side note these also apply to doors.
1. Excessive Noise
Your windows and doors are great at allowing natural light and fresh air into your home, but this shouldn’t come at the expense of increased street noise. Your windows and doors are built and installed in a way to help block most of the external noise, ensuring you can enjoy your family time or even alone time uninterrupted. However, if you begin to notice that there is more noise that penetrates into your home than it did before, this could be a sign that your window may be damaged or the seals have given way. This additional street noise can be extremely frustrating, especially if you work from home or have young children that are constantly being woken from their naps. Replacement windows and doors will have the ability to once again block this noise, and ensure you are able to enjoy the time in your house without interruption from people and vehicles passing by.
2. Difficulty to Operate
As windows age, they may bend out of shape or become unaligned. This causes kinks in the operation of the window as the sash may rub against the frame, or hinges and cranks may become seized. In some cases, all that is needed is some lubricant. But, in most cases when it is tough to open or close a window, you decide to live with it or you look for replacement options.
3. Uneven Temperatures
When the seals on your windows are no longer working at an optimal level, drafts can pass through. As well if your windows have shifted from the frames or the caulking has peeled back drafts can enter from around the frames. If you notice cool or warm spots in your home, especially by windows and doors it is more than likely caused by a draft. Not only will these drafts reduce your comfort level in your home, your HVAC system will need to work harder to maintain the desired temperature in your home, causing your energy bills to go up.
4. Pest infestation
If your windows and doors are not sealing properly or have rotten sections, this can lead to a pest infestation in your home. Sometimes you may see a spider or other bugs in your home and think nothing of it. But, if you frequently come across these types of insects, you need to think that they are getting in somehow. Wooden windows are susceptible to rotting which may create an opening for bugs and even mice to get into your home. A pest infestation could lead to property damage and can even negatively impact the health of everyone in your home.
5. Damage
No matter the extent of the damage, you need to consider replacing any damaged windows and doors right away. You may think that you can live with a small crack in the glass or the frame for now, but this damage will more than likely spread as the temperatures change with the seasons. Damaged windows pose a large safety risk, if someone accidentally bumps into the window the damage can spread leading to broken glass potentially flying about. It also poses a security risk, as would be intruders and burglars see damaged windows and doors as easy access points to a home.
5 Warning Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Windows And Doors
Windows and doors are essential components to any home. They contribute to the aesthetics of your home, can affect the comfort of the home’s interior, and they dictate how secure your home is. However, you don’t always notice the signs that it is time to replace your windows and doors, as they deteriorate gradually. There are telltale warning signs that will be a good indicator that you need replacement windows and doors.
We have prepared a guide explaining five of these warning signs, to help you identify when you may need to look into replacement options.
1. Faulty Operation
If you are finding it increasingly more difficult to open or close your windows or doors, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to replace them, but you definitely need to give them some attention. Over time your windows and doors can develop balance issues, which cause them to stick and jam. In some cases, all you will need is some minor maintenance, perhaps a bit of lubrication, or a tightening of a few screws. However, if these issues are a result of wear and tear, and the window or door itself has begun to deteriorate, you will need to look into replacement options. If ignored the issue will worsen, and the door or window may become seized.
2. Condensation Buildup
Not all condensation is necessarily a sign of an issue. Condensation on the inside or outside of your windows or doors can be expected from time to time. However, any condensation between your window panes is a sign of an issue. For condensation to build up in between your window panes, it means that the seal has been damaged and is no longer air tight. This drastically reduces the efficiency of this window. The only solution for condensation between your window panes, is replacement. If ignored, it could lead to drafts entering your home and increased energy costs as your HVAC system will need to work a bit harder to compensate for the faulty window.
3. Cold Drafts
If you feel a draft when you close your windows and doors, it means that the seals are wearing or already worn off. Your door’s weather-stripping helps ensure a tight seal with the frame, if this has worn out, it could lead to cold air to enter your home and for warm air to escape. A draft around where a window or door seals against the frame may need just a weather stripping replacement, however it could also be an indication that the frame has warped and a replacement is the only solution. Have an expert look at the affected area if the draft persists.
4. Increased Noise Level
If you begin to notice that the outdoor noise is being heard more inside your home than before, this can indicate that your windows and doors have lost their soundproofing qualities. Increased traffic noises, dogs barking or just from people walking outside your home are all an indication that there is an issue.
5. Physical Damage
Visible damage to your windows and doors caused by curved, warped, cracked, and rotted frames are a serious issue that you should address right away. Not only is this damage causing potential energy bill increases and is probably an eye soar. Visible damage to your windows and doors should be considered as a serious safety risk, as potential intruders may view this damage as an easy entry point to your home. Don’t delay to have broken or damaged windows and doors replaced as soon as possible.