Windows

How are uPVC Windows Beneficial for Your Home?

If you have been thinking it is time for a window replacement, you have several options to consider before moving ahead with your project. With new windows comes the opportunity to change the style and function of your windows as well as the look and feel of your entire home. The type of material your window frames are manufactured from is another decision you will need to make for your project. There are multiple options such as wood, aluminum, composite and even fiberglass. An increasingly popular option is uPVC, we will go over what you need to know about uPVC below.

uPVC is short for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, a term most of us are not familiar with. However, many of us have been in close contact with the material before, as most vinyl windows are made out of uPVC. The material is more ridged, and doesn’t warp or discolour as fast as regular PVC windows. It is also more weather and fire resistant than PVC. But, the main difference is that uPVC is BPA and phthalate free, which is important for you and your family’s health. BPA is a toxic chemical that is found in some plastics and has been linked to neurological and immunity issues among other potentially dangerous health hazards.

These windows have gained in popularity because the material is easy to work with, and can be used on a wide array of window sizes, styles and shapes. uPVC windows are extremely durable, they are bug and fire resistant, they won’t peel, rust, or rot and the colour won’t fade for decades. Maintenance for uPVC windows is fairly easy, all that is needed is a light wash a few times a year using soap and water. Because these frames won’t chip or flake, there is no need to paint. Even if the frames get scratched, the colour goes through the entire frame, so there will be minimal visibility of the scratched area and no need for touch-ups.

You may have asked yourself are replacement windows worth the cost? uPVC windows are manufactured air tight and when coupled with other window efficiency features will limit warm air from entering or escaping your home. When heating your home during the colder months and cooling your home in the warmer months, these windows will help maintain your ideal internal home temperature, meaning your HVAC system will not need to work as hard and saving you money on your energy bills.

uPVC windows are also great at reducing outside noise, if you live in a busy neighbourhood or close to a major street, you know that outside noise can often penetrate into your home. uPVC windows offer great sound dampening, so when the windows are closed you are able to enjoy the company of your friends and family or simply enjoy some quiet time without being disturbed with what’s happening outside. You will probably be hard pressed to put a value on the peace and quiet.

When looking into replacing your windows, you will have many options to sort through. At Riverbend windows and doors, our focus is on you, and helping you find the right product for your London area home. Give us a call today at 226-688-8652, for a free consultation!

by Riverbend Windows

How To Choose The Right Windows For Your Home?

Before you choose different window styles, frames and glass types, try to write on a piece of paper all of your personal preferences considering comfort, budget and efficiency. Make sure you know the amount of ventilation and light every room needs as the atmosphere you’ll get will depend on the type of window you choose.

And before you end the window shopping spree, make sure that all of the details have been gone through at least twice. The whole process can be time consuming and costly. However, if properly done window replacement can provide you with better insulation therefore higher energy efficiency and reduced bills.

Style

The style of a window determines amount of ventilation, obstruction of outside views, energy efficiency and the overall aesthetic of one’s home. Each window style suits different environments and offers different benefits. For instance, double-hung windows work best for traditional style homes, but if you want unobstructed views or living space, maybe you should go with sliding. Here are the basic window styles:

Casement – They are usually installed in kitchens because they are easy to operate in hard to reach areas and provide great ventilation. They are hinged on either left or right and open like a door, catching that ideal breeze angle.

Awning – Same as casements, awnings open with a hinge and give great ventilation angles. They usually are smaller and installed in bathrooms. Their biggest advantage is that they protect the rooms from falling rain or snow.

Sliding – When opened, sliding windows do not interfere with the living area and that’s why this window style is highly recommended for small sized rooms. They also haven’t got large and distracting frames which makes them great for rooms with limited natural lighting.

Single/Double Hung – Hung windows are the most child friendly as they cannot be climbed through or walked into. Single Hungs open only from the bottom, while Double Hungs can be operated from both sides (top and bottom).

Picture – This window type cannot be opened and is solely used for increasing the amount of natural light. Picture windows are also a part of bay or bow which consist of more openings and have the center window static (picture) and the surrounding windows operable (usually casement or hung).

Frames

Window frames are made from various materials. The type you choose will determine the home’s aesthetics and energy efficiency; and the window’s maintenance and lifespan. When choosing a window frame, apart from looking at the pricing, try to put focus on efficiency ratings and lifespans. Here are the basic types of window framing:

Vinyl – Fortunately for homeowners there is a frame material which is cheap and energy efficient at the same time. Its name is vinyl and it’s the most common choice for homeowners. Vinyl has a lifespan of 40 years and requires much less maintenance than other materials. That is why vinyl window replacement has a ROI of 78%. People love this material for homes.

Aluminum – The biggest advantage of aluminum frames is their strength. They are recommended for rainy, humid and storm climates. If you are living in a hurricane prone zone, this window frame should be installed in your home. Aluminum also has a high performance in heat transfer and loss. However, it has a short life span of 15 years and less energy efficiency than other materials.

Wood – If you are a vintage buff then you probably have wood frames, at least in one room. Wood is a great insulator and it has a long lifespan, but unfortunately is vulnerable to pesticide, rot and mold growth. This is why wood isn’t recommended for rainy areas. However, the quality of a wooden frame mainly depends on manufacturers and the type of wood they have chosen.

Fiberglass – This material is good for anything, including window frames. Fiberglass is the most expensive one on the market, but it offers many benefits for homeowners. High energy efficiency, significantly longer life span and limited amount of maintenance are its biggest strengths. The biggest advantage fiberglass has over vinyl is that it can be repainted as much as we want and it cannot bend or twist.

Composite – Technically, fiberglass is a composite window frame as it consists of both polyester raisins and glass fibers. However, we use the word “composite” to describe frames which upgrade wood by protecting it with clad (usually made form aluminum or vinyl). They have all the benefits as they are made from wood and are completely recyclable, have a longer lifespan, require less maintenance and are highly energy efficient.

Glass

When completing a window replacement project, one should give attention to the type of glass as well. If you spend less money and purchase low quality glass, it won’t matter if your frames are fiberglass or composite, the insulation will still be bad. Do not choose single pane windows as more panes means better energy efficiency. Double or triple pane windows give more means of protection from the cold air breeze at night and from the hazardous UV rays in the morning. Manufacturers have more variations for the filling between the panes.

Argon & Krypton – both are odorless natural gases found in the atmosphere. They are put between glass panes to improve thermal efficiency. Krypton is denser than Argon and therefore better, but both of them are denser than air. This provides homeowners with better insulation than air the one gotten from air-filled panes.

Low E-Glaze – If you want your glass with the highest possible quality, you should look for Low E-glazing. This is an invisible thin coating which is applied on either the inside or the outside of panes. It improves thermal efficiency with reducing heat transfers. Low E is highly recommended for warm climates as it reflects sunlight back from where it came and prevents abnormal increase of heat in the inside of a home.

To choose the right glass for your windows, follow the Energy Star ratings. Energy Start means that the product has passed the tests for energy efficiency. Other values you should look out for are U-factor and R-value. These have to do with the glass’s capabilities to manage heat energy.

U-value represents the amount of heat loss through the window. The lower U-value, the better insulation in your home.

R-value represents the window’s ability to retain and absorb heat. The lower R rating, the worse quality of insulation.

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.

by Riverbend Windows

Should I Replace All My Windows at Once?

When looking at window replacement for your home you have many options in terms of design, colour, style, and functionality. But one question we get often is: Should I replace all my windows at once?

The short answer is that you do not need to replace all of your windows at the same time, but there may be benefits in doing so. Buying new windows is an investment in your home, and you shouldn’t sacrifice quality, style preference, or performance in an attempt to meet a timeline.

Here are four factors to keep in mind when deciding on which windows replace:

1. Cost

The overall cost of the project needs to be taken into consideration. Price per window will decrease when replacing multiple windows at the same time, if your project is keeping the window replacement team busy for the entire day (usually a minimum of 6-8 windows) you should be receiving the best value. On the other hand, if you are looking to replace a window or two, you may be paying a premium.

2. Aesthetics

Maintaining the aesthetics of your home is very important, especially if you are considering only replacing a few windows at a time. People will opt into replacing an entire side or one level of their home to maintain a uniformed look versus randomly choosing windows to replace.

3. Budget

If replacing windows for the entire home is in your budget but you are concerned about the inconvenience it may cause to you and your family, do not be alarmed. Replacing windows for an entire house can be done much quicker than most renovation projects such as a bathroom or kitchen remodel. A professional team of window installers can replace the windows in an average sized home in two to three days, this includes cleaning up daily and the removal of the old windows and all garbage.

4. Benefits

One big advantage of replacing all your windows at once is that you will fully take advantage of the benefits of the new windows including improved energy efficiency, enhanced safety and security, improved functionality, enriched aesthetics, and an increase in the overall value of your home.

Ultimately the decision on if you should replace all your windows at once is up to you and your situation. If you have a damaged window or just a few that are in bad shape you can choose to replace those individually, but if you are in the position to complete the project all at once you will benefit from all of the advantages that window replacement has to offer and heighten the overall beauty of your home.

by Riverbend Windows

What Are The Signs You Need New Windows?

The significance of windows on the aesthetics and economic value of a house cannot be downplayed. Right windows enhance the curb appeal of a house, as well as the energy efficiency of a house. However, if your home is about 20 years old, you certainly need window replacement because the windows may have exceeded their lifespan and lost their efficiency.

If you are thinking of window replacement and wish to know the signs you need new windows, read the tips below to guide you appropriately.

1. Increasing Energy Bills

One of the signs you need new windows is the increase in energy bills. The chances are that your HVAC unit is working more than necessary to keep your home warm or cooling due to the outdoor air that enters the house through cracks or holes on your windows. Compare the current energy bills with what they used to be about six months ago. If you have not purchased a new appliance and there is a significant increase in the energy bills, start fixing the issues by replacing your windows.

2. Physical Damage

You do not need to be told that you need window replacement when your windows have visible signs of damage like warping, cracking, rot, damaged hinges that make a squeaking noise, and lots more. Take a walk around your house and examine all the windows in your home for visible physical damage that undermines their efficiency.

3. Window Operation

Another sign you need new windows is the difficulty in opening and closing your windows. Your windows should not be difficult to open or close. But the moment you can no longer operate your windows without hassles, prepare for window replacement to avoid an accident that may result from forcing your windows to open or close.

4. Poor Soundproofing

If your windows can no longer reduce outdoor noise when closed, your windows have failed and list their soundproofing property. Your windows should prevent noises outside your home from disturbing you. But once you get disturbed by the sound of a passing vehicle and other noises across the road, you should have window replacement done in your home as soon as possible.

5. Condensation

If your windows look foggy and you cannot see the outdoors through them, and the fog fails to evaporate, your windows should be replaced soon. What that means is that your window cannot protect your home from the external temperature any longer.

Consider the five signs above to plan for window replacement in your home. Replace the windows to experience more comfort in your home.

by Riverbend Windows

How Can I Increase Sunlight in My House?

Apart from making you feel warm, sunlight also stimulates the production of collagen and the absorption of calcium, phosphate, and magnesium through vitamin D that it provides. All these are necessary for improved overall health and wellness. As a result, finding how to increase sunlight in your home is a wise way to enhance your health and make your house lit by natural light (sunlight). Read further for the tips to have more sunlight in your house.

1. Window Replacement

The first tip to increase sunlight in your house is through window replacement. Replacing old, blurry, broken, and dim-looking windows with new windows are the way to go. Also, you can go for larger windows or sliding, bay, or bow windows to let the most sunlight into your house. Window replacement is a hassle-free way to achieve your goal.

2. Add Skylights

Installing skylights is the fastest way to have more sunlight in your home. Skylights are available in different sizes, and best suited in high-traffic spaces like family rooms and bathrooms. So, get more sunlight in your home by installing skylights. But you must let the project be handled by a professional due to its process of installation to prevent leaking. With skylights installed, you are assured of having the sun-lit and moon-lit sky right in your home.

3. Install Shiny Objects and Mirrors

Another way to increase sunlight in your house is to install mirrors and items that have high reflective properties. Mirrors and other shiny accessories will reflect and amplify the sunshine in your house. You can look for decorative objects made of glass or that have a shiny finish that you can place strategically in your home to increase sunlight.

4. Trim Tree Branches and Shrubs in Your Home

Trim tree branches that cover your entry door and your windows. This will allow sunlight to gain entrance into your home instead of the shade cast on your windows and doors by tree branches. Besides, cut the shrubs around your home. In addition to letting sunlight into your home, it will also increase the curb appeal of your home.

5. Remove Heavy Curtains

To increase sunlight in your home, remove all the heavy and dark draperies and curtains blocking sunlight. Instead, use sheer curtains to allow sunlight to come through them and illuminate your home.

Above are the ways you can increase sunlight in your house. Following the tips above will help you enjoy the benefits that sunlight offers right from inside your home.

by Riverbend Windows

Why Bedrooms With Large Windows Are Awesome?

Installing the right window is crucial to making a room perfect and meeting the expected goals. If your bedroom does not have large windows, you may have to undertake a window replacement after reading this article to the end.

Bedrooms with large windows have always proven to be awesome, exceptionally aesthetic, and provide the perfect ambiance for relaxation and sleep. Meanwhile, we want to give you the reasons why such bedrooms are fantastic to assist you in making a window replacement decision. Read further.

1. More Natural Light

One of the challenges many homeowners are faced with these days is how to bring in more natural light into their bedrooms. No bias can downplay the importance of natural light. As a result, bedrooms that have large windows automatically have more natural light in them. If you want more natural light in your bedroom, think about installing large windows during a window replacement exercise.

2. Good Ventilation

Large windows will allow fresh air into the bedroom, and you can get rid of stuffiness in the room. You can open the windows whenever you want and have fresh, natural air in the bedroom. Take advantage of large windows by undertaking a window replacement project to make your room well-ventilated.

3. Enhanced Aesthetics

Bedrooms with large windows also have an enhanced aesthetic appeal. The reason is that the outdoors will serve as scenery that will contribute to the aesthetics of the bedroom. The large windows allow you to have the outdoors inside the bedroom without posting wallpapers to your walls. To have a similar experience, start a window replacement project today.

4. Multiple Window Treatment Options

Large windows allow you to mix and match different window treatments in the bedroom. You can install ceiling-to-floor heavy draperies in addition to light curtains, which can be used interchangeably according to the level of privacy needed during the day or night. These window treatments will improve the interior aesthetics of the bedroom.

5. Panoramic Views of the Outdoor

The large windows in the bedroom allow you to view the outdoor landscape, trees, shrubs, fountains, etc. from the comfort of your bedroom. This is only possible with large windows installed. Bedrooms with large windows are perfect. You can experience a suitable balance with the outdoors while in your room.

The above are some of the reasons bedrooms with large windows are awesome. To make your bedroom awesome, install large windows. Call an experienced installer for a high-quality window replacement that will allow you to benefit from the advantages discussed above.

by Riverbend Windows

What Makes A Window Energy Efficient?

So, you are considering window replacement for your home and research the best types for insulation and comfort boost inside your property. And you see everywhere that specialists advise choosing an energy-efficient window replacement solution, as those can save you a lot of costs. But at the same time, you question what makes a window energy efficient. Well, you are in the right place, because we’ve shared in this article in-depth details about energy-efficient windows. Let’s see up next why you should consider energy-efficient window replacement solutions.

What are Energy-Efficient Windows?

Energy-efficient windows are created to prevent heated or cooled air from escaping a home. These solutions come with better insulation, which in turn diminishes a house energy usage. And the best part of the energy-efficient windows is that they make your home more comfortable.

How do Energy-Efficient Windows Work?

The design of an energy-efficient window is a vast gathering of top-notch materials that function together to provide the best insulation approach for an interior. First of all, the quality of the material used for the frame is extremely important. Low-maintenance framing materials can diminish heat transfer and insulate better.

Also, the multiple pane windows are the best window replacement solution, as two or more glass panes come with increased impact resistance, sound insulation, and overall improved interior insulation. And the most qualitative window replacement ideas come with Low-E glass, a special coating that reflects light and keeps the heat inside in winter and outside in summer. Also, this type of coating prevents UV damage and allow natural light to enter a home without obstructions.

Some types of energy-efficient windows come with gas fills, such as argon or krypton. These are odourless and non-toxic gases that aid in insulation and shield the home against energy leakages. And the best energy-efficient windows come with warm edge spacers, which keeps the glass panes at the right distance. This diminishes heat transfer through the windows, which in turn prevents condensation or fog from occurring.

Why are Window Frame Materials Essential?

The best and most efficient windows are designed from top-notch, durable materials. As an example, fiberglass is a popular choice amongst homeowners due to its low-maintenance and good insulation results. Also, fiberglass frames can come with hollow or filled with foam insulation. Vinyl frames are also easy to maintain and offer decent thermal insulation. Composite frames are created from distinct materials that were mixed together with a manufacturing process to achieve a durable and well-insulated window frame.

So, now that you know more details about what makes a window energy-efficient, maybe it is time to contemplate window replacement for your home. New windows can offer a lot of advantages and can save you unnecessary costs in your energy bill.

by Riverbend Windows

5 Types of Window Frames for Your Home

Knowing the types of window frames available for your window replacement project will assist you in making an informed decision about purchasing the right window frame for your home. It is essential to know that window frames come in different materials and finishes that have a significant impact on performance, durability, and aesthetics.

Read this article further to know the five types of window frames available for window replacement in your home.

1. Vinyl Window Frames

Vinyl window frames are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). They are your perfect choice for perfect insulation. If you need window frames that are versatile and compatible with a wide variety of window types – they match any style of window. Vinyl window frames are the most popular framing choice. You can get the highest level of moisture resistance from vinyl window frames. They are more affordable and durable than other types.

2. Fiberglass Window Frames

Fiberglass window frames another type of window frame that offers the highest resistance to weathering and extreme changes in temperature. They are made of sustainable materials. They are incredibly energy-efficient and provide excellent insulation. Fiberglass is durable and lasts longer than some types of window frames. However, the downside of the fiberglass window frame is that they are more costly.

3. Aluminium Window Frames

If you need window frames that are rugged and durable, aluminium window frames are a perfect choice. They require little or no maintenance, especially when you painted them. Aluminium is resistant to rot and sunlight damage. The aesthetics property of aluminium window frames is impressive – they are sleek and beautiful. However, the downsides of aluminium window frames include poor insulation (as they conduct heat), and they are expensive.

4. Wooden Window Frames

Wooden window frames are made from wood. They are attractive and durable when appropriately maintained. Wooden window frames are the most expensive, but they are vulnerable to rot and weathering under extreme temperatures. The natural grain of wooden window frames makes them suitable for vintage design. However, they require a lot of care and maintenance.

5. Composite Window Frames

Composite window frames are made from composite wood products such as wood fibre, particleboard, and strand lumber to imitate original wood appearance. They usually contain vinyl or aluminium covering that serves as a protection to the wood. Composite window frames are a hybrid of wood and vinyl or aluminium. They are expensive, but they possess excellent qualities.

Your budget, style, and preferences will determine which of these window frames to purchase for your window replacement project.

by Riverbend Windows

What is the Difference Between Casement and Awning Windows?

If you are planning a window replacement project, it is crucial to understand the differences between casement and awning windows to make the best decision. Casement and awning windows are perfect for any window replacement exercise, but some differences make one better for a location than the other.

As a result, we have compiled the differences between casement and awning windows to make your window replacement project effortless and smooth. Read more.

Differences between Casement and Awning Windows

The following are some differences between casement and awning windows:

1. Hinge System

Although casement and awning windows are crank windows, they are hinged differently. Casement windows are hinged at the side and can open to either right or left, depending on which side it is hinged to the window frame. On the contrary, awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward. Your preferred hinge system will determine the suitable type for your window replacement project.

2. Space Configuration

Casements windows are perfect for openings with a higher height than the width. Awning windows, on the other hand, are best suited for openings with a greater width than the height. The window space will determine the best between casement and awning windows for your window replacement task.

3. Opening Space

The structure of the casement and awning windows determines the space they need to open fully. Although the two types of windows open outwards, awning windows require ample space outdoor to open fully. Meanwhile, casement windows require less space to open fully. This factor can impact your experience; that is why you should measure window space and choose the appropriate type between casement and awning windows.

4. Ease of Cleaning

It is much easier to clean casement windows than awning windows. Cleaning is a factor that should be prioritized when choosing the window for specific rooms in your house. Casement windows open up to 90 degrees and can be cleaned thoroughly from inside. To clean awning windows, you have to go outside and use a ladder. As a result, if the window you want to install in a particular room requires regular cleaning, choose casement windows after considering other factors discussed above.

5. Orientation

Casement windows are designed with vertical orientation and area hinged to either the right or left side of the frame. Awning windows have horizontal orientation and hinged at the top. Casement windows swing open like doors while awning windows open outwardly upward.

Regardless of your choice between casement and awning windows, you can complete your window replacement project with peace of mind. They are both energy-efficient and will enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your home. Meanwhile, your window space and preference will determine your choice.

by Riverbend Windows