Trends in Wood Front Door: Setting the Tone for the House

Creating the perfect entrance with wood front doors will enhance the front of your home, and create an incredible first impression. Wood front doors are easy to install, maintain, and will provide security. With unlimited options and finishes, finding the right style to compliment the home’s architecture is a snap. The current trends in wood front doors are styles that are more highly designed. Arched tops, particularly on a double door will give an entrance a powerful stance, making the ceiling seem taller, and more extraordinary. Creating an arch with the sidelights following the curve has a designer appeal and high end look. Arched doors are available in a multitude of woods, including cherry, alder, mahogany, teak, or knotty pine.

The the wood species and finish needs to flow with the architecture. If a home is more rustic with stone or other natural materials, then a distressed knotty pine or alder wood will provide a stunning effect. Knots and distressing add character and life to the wood front doors. Homes are taking on a more dressy appearance with some of the new building trends. A more formal home will require a wood front door that is more serious. Cherry and mahogany woods will finish to a rich, warm tone with a soft sheen. Teak doors can be finished to a rich mellow brown that has a stately feel. The glass inserts will be more decorative with bevels, and are sometimes more prevalent in the design. The entrance to a formal home will be more spectacular when a French style door or one with side lights included.

The formal styles are showier, bringing more attention to the entrance. Wood door design is much more creative with the inclusion of design elements such as curved accents, circles, and metal accents. Multi-panels and layered moldings have a huge impact, and are some of the most popular requests. The hardware being used is also more important to the overall design of the entrance, rather than fading into the background. Builders and realtors feel that wood front doors are a smart investment in which the homeowner will see a return on their investment if they sell. Another buying trend for doors is investing in better materials – in other words, buying once. Homeowners expect a quality design when paying a better price and a wood front door is something they are asking for. Architects and builders are also making entrances grander so that better materials such as wood are a must.

Bay or Bow Type Windows

Bay windows are a multi-panel window which projects beyond the outside wall of a home. They are usually made of a center window which is parallel to an existing wall and two other windows that connect the wall to the center window. Because bay windows extend beyond wall of the home they are good at making a small space appear larger and more welcoming.

While the center window is most commonly a fixed (or picture) type the other windows may also be fixed or may open to offer ventilation to the room. Casement and double hung windows are most commonly used as the “flankers” for the center window but a variety of options are available. Bay windows are excellent at bringing light into a room and offer a much wider view from inside the home. Additionally, they offer a stylish addition to the outside view of the home.

Bay Window Details:

Bow windows are similar to bay windows but they tend to have more panels (commonly four or five) that are a consistent size. By having more panels the bow window gives a semi circular, or “bow”, look. Any of the windows may be fixed or operable windows, depending on desired ventilation.

Bay/Bow Window Considerations

When deciding between fixed and operable windows for your bay/bow window you may want to consider.

* Fixed windows will insulate and seal better, making them more energy efficient.
* Operable windows will allow for ventilation into the room.
* Fixed windows will offer a better view, there is no sash or hardware to get in the way.

If you choosing between types of operable windows keep in mind:

* Casements offer fuller ventilation when opened.
* Casements offer a better seal when closed.
* Double hung windows will not obstruct any outside walkways or plants that might be outside your bay/bow window.

Sliding / Gliding Window

Sliding window can also be referred to as gliding or slider windows. A sliding window has two sashes with at least one that slides horizontally past the other. While one sliding sash and one fixed sash is the most common option it is possible to purchase windows which allow both sashes to slide.

While sliding windows are not as effective as modern casements at sealing out air, they still do a much better job than older windows that they are replacing and are known for their ease of operation. Sliding windows are a better choice for homes in warm/dry parts of the country as their seal will not be as crucial as in a wet and cold area

Sliding windows may be a good choice for areas where an outward opening window (casement or awning) might get in the way such as decks, walkways, etc...

Choosing House Windows: From Casement to Energy Efficient Windows

You probably already know that if you are building a new home or remodeling your current one, the windows that you choose will significantly affect the overall look.  What you may not know is that they will also affect how energy-efficient your home is.  However, it can be difficult to know what the difference is between the R-value and the U-factor.  And what about all of those windows that claim to be low-E?  It's time to clear up all of the confusion! Here's how to choose replacement windows (or new windows) for your house.

1. Style.  Some styles of windows are more energy-efficient than others.  The most energy efficient windows are casement windows.  Casement windows open from a hinge, either at the top or one side of the window, by means of a crank that you turn.  Because the sash is designed to fit tightly against the weather seal when closed, they let very little air through.  In fact, when the wind blows against the glass of a casement-type window, it pushes it against the sash, which simply makes it seal even more tightly.  Casement windows usually fit in best with a contemporary design.  The second type of window is the double hung window.  This is the more traditional style with which you may be familiar.  They consist of a lower pane and an upper pane.  When you wish to open the window, you slide the lower pane upward.  The weather seal that is used on double hung windows becomes damaged over time, which means it lets in more air than an undamaged seal.  However, double hung windows can usually be tilted inward for cleaning, which makes them more convenient in this aspect.  The third type of window is a sliding window.  This is basically a double hung window, but it slides from left to right, instead of up and down.  It is subject to the same sort of abuse as a double hung window, which makes it just as inefficient.
2. R-value.  This is the biggest factor in the energy efficiency of your windows.  But the real question is - what in the world is R-value and how does it affect your windows?  To put it simply, R-value is the measure of how much heat loss your windows are capable of preventing.  Therefore, you want windows with the highest R-value possible.  The lowest R-value that is acceptable if you are trying to build an efficient home is R-3.  Of course, the higher the rating, the more efficient the window.  The corollary to that is the higher the R-value, the more expensive the window will be.  A good rule of thumb is to choose a window with the highest R-value that you can reasonably afford, in relation to the energy savings that you expect to receive.  This is especially true if you live in a cold climate.  Keep in mind that R-value is rated according to the window's efficiency in the center of the glass.  The edges will be less energy-efficient than the R-value reflects.
3. U-factor.  This is the second big factor to consider when choosing your house windows.  U-factor is the measure of how well your window prevents air leaks between the sash and the frame.  U-factors less than 0.35 are considered energy efficient.  If you live in a climate that is cold and windy, you'll want to give just as much weight to the U-factor of your windows as the R-value.  You may also want to consider relocating to somewhere that's warm and sunny all year-round!
4. Low-E windows.  This type of window is the gold standard when it comes to energy-efficient windows.  Low-E (also known as low emissivity) windows consist of an inner and outer pane of glass.  The area between the two panes is filled with an inert (non-active) gas such as argon, which provides the ultimate in window insulation without compromising the clarity of the glass.  A step down from low-E windows are single-glazed and double-glazed windows, which are coated with a transparent metallic oxide finish that prevents some heat loss.  These are much less efficient than low-E windows, which is reflected in their lower R-values.  Single glazed windows are glazed on only one side, double glazed are glazed on both the inside and outside.  The least desirable windows, in terms of heat loss, are unglazed windows.  An unglazed window is a simple sheet of glass with no coating or insulation.  They are more efficient than an open window, but that's about it!  Glazing can be combined with low-E windows for an even more energy-efficient solution.
5. Condensation prevention.  Condensation happens when there is a great difference in air temperature between the inside of a window and the outside.  If the temperature and the humidity inside your home are high, and the temperature outside is low, you will probably see condensation forming on your windows.  Conversely, the same is true if the temperature outside is quite high and the indoor temperature is cool.  Condensation is a problem for windows because when moisture frequently collects around the edges of your windows, over time it will cause damage to the frame and weather seal.  It's also a problem because it indicates that your windows are not insulating your home very well.  To prevent condensation, look for windows with warm-air technology and high-quality metal spacers along the edges of the panes.  The warm air keeps the temperature of the window closer to the air temperature of your home, which won't give condensation a chance to form.
6. Solar (UV) penetration.  This is an important consideration for anyone living in an especially warm climate.  When the sun is constantly shining through your windows, you'll notice that your carpet, furniture and anything else in the sun's path starts to look faded and worn prematurely.  To keep this from happening, look for types of house windows with an ultraviolet-blocking coating.  This will allow the harmless rays of the sun to shine right through, while blocking the UV rays, which do the most damage.
7. Window placement.  When you are deciding where to place the windows in your home, consider the fact that south-facing windows let in heat without an undue amount of UV rays.  Therefore, they can help warm your home during the colder months.  North-facing windows, on the other hand, provide very little warmth and can actually be a hindrance to keeping your home warm.  To illustrate this fact, just look at the driveways on your street after a snowstorm.  Most likely, the driveways that face south will be melted and clear long before the ones that face north.  Therefore, if you are set on floor-to-ceiling windows in your great room, put them on the south side of the house if at all possible. 
8. Building code requirements.  Many states have adopted building code standards which regulate the type of windows which you are allowed to install in a new or remodeled home.  Always check your local building code before purchasing or installing new windows.  This is especially important if you are buying windows from an out-of-state source.  The windows sold at a local store will most likely meet your state's building codes, but those from an out-of-state source may not.
9. Rebates.  Some utility companies now offer rebates if you install energy-efficient windows.  In some cases, the rebate is significant enough that you will end up paying nearly the same for energy-efficient windows as you would for ordinary windows.  Check the website for your local utility company to see if they offer these types of rebates.

There you have it - the world of windows reduced to seven simple steps!  Naturally, a well-insulated window is only as good as its installation, so always have windows installed by a professional and make sure all of the seams are caulked and sealed well.

Vinyl Replacement Windows Advice and Tips

The Vinyl Replacement Window Boom

It's easy to see why vinyl replacement windows have become one of the most popular home improvements around. They reduce noise and energy use while increasing your property value and enhancing the appearance of your home. They can be installed quickly without major construction headaches and the price is relatively affordable.

But upgrading your windows is a major project that requires careful consideration. When my wife and I decided to replace the seven windows and three sliding patio doors in our home, we found out just how confusing it can be. Our house is a typical 1960's era ranch style home located in Southern California. The exterior is stucco and the original windows were aluminum. We spent several months trying to find the best vinyl windows for our home. In the process, we learned a lot about the window replacement industry, from the various options that are available to sales tactics all buyers need to watch out for.

We have created this buyer's guide to share our experience with others who are shopping for vinyl replacement windows. We tried to put together all of the information we wish we would have had as we were beginning the process. We hope our successes and our mistakes will help you find the best replacement windows for your home.

Why Replace Windows?

Replacing your home’s windows can increase the value of your home as well as improve energy efficiency. How do you tell if your home can benefit from window replacement? According to a recent article published by US News & World Report, the median US house price is now 3.2 times the family income. Now more than ever a home should be treated as an investment, and knowing when to act is as important as knowing what to do when it comes to home improvement. Replacing your home’s windows is a substantial job that can be expensive if you don’t do your homework ahead of time. A recent estimate for replacing five double-hung wood windows with new wood windows, including labor, in a 90-year-old house was $2,500 or $500 per window. Of course, it is also a project that can improve your home aesthetically, economically and environmentally.

Knowing When to Replace Your Windows
Old or poorly installed windows can cost as much over the course of a few years as the cost of installing brand new windows. New windows can lower your monthly heating and cooling bills, increase your home’s resale value and increase the security and safety of your home. Here are a few signs that your home is a good candidate for window replacement:

• Peeling paint revealing warped or water damaged wood.
  
• Nearby carpet and furniture is faded.
  
• Drafts near closed windows.
  
• Outside noise can be heard strongly inside.
  
• Energy bills are high year-round.

The type of material used in your existing window frames can also cause damage to your home. Because aluminum window frames are often colder than the ambient air around them, condensation could form around your windows. As this condensation builds up, it bleeds into the frame and damages the window sills. Eventually, the wood rots and more water leaks into the surrounding walls. This damage can be extremely expensive to repair since you’re not only replacing the windows and frame, but the surrounding structure as well.

Value Proposition: Where is the Love?

When you replace your windows, there are also less visible benefits besides increasing the resale value. For instance, new windows can block harmful UV rays, which damage carpet and furniture fabrics. New windows also improve security and safety since old, faulty windows can make entry easier for criminals. Of course, the most obvious value is in improving energy use. With the right kind of windows you can save as much as 27-38 % on heating bills in winter and 16-32 % on cooling bills in summer. A look at the electricity and gas prices in the US can quickly illustrate how important new windows can be to your bottom line.

Living in the Material World

Probably the most difficult decision to make when it comes to replacing your windows is choosing the right style and materials. The overall cost depends on what type of glass is used, energy efficiency, frame materials, warranties, and finally, style. There are four basic materials used by window manufacturers. To make the right decision for your needs and budget, here is some information on the various material options:

• Aluminum: Years ago aluminum frame windows were among the most popular due to their cost and easy installation. As stated earlier in this article, aluminum has inherent flaws that can make aluminum a poor choice for your home.
  
• Steel: Sometimes used for housing, steel is most often used in commercial applications. Versatile, practical, weather-resistant, durable and energy efficient, steel is also expensive. The variety of style is also a drawback.
  
• Vinyl: Moderately priced, vinyl windows come in a variety of styles, are durable, are readily available, and require no maintenance.
  
• Wood: Choice is the biggest benefit to wood frame windows. Of course, you pay dearly for the freedom of choice as these windows can be expensive and require a high level of maintenance.

Working Relationships: Who Does It?

Doing-it-yourself can save you money, but it can also cause you huge headaches. The easiest solution is to have someone do it for you. A professional contractor can help you choose windows and materials that are right for your needs and budget. There are as many qualified window installation specialists as there are options. Check the credentials of any window installers you are considering and ask for local examples of their work or references from past clients. The Internet is also a good place to begin your window replacement project.

Windows: Quality Can Be Inexpensive

If you are walking down the street looking at homes probably the first – or tied for first – feature that you will notice about any home is the windows. Features about the windows that may pop out at you are the shapes, styles, numbers and placement. As one designer aptly put it, “If the eyes are the windows to the soul then windows are the eyes of the home.”

Good windows are not cheap but replacing old ones with new, stylish models have almost as much affect on a prospective buyer as a new kitchen or bathroom. While it is not the ultimate feature in the eyes of someone looking for a home, a window remodel will definitely help make the sale. This is especially true if the windows are the new and are the energy-efficient type. There are a few things to look for when buying windows, items that could save you money:


The type of window is a large factor in why the homeowner buys it. For example, many like the traditional double-hung where the bottom sash pushes up for ventilation. Then there is the casement window where the sash is hinged on one side and swings out. The style is, in large fact, a determining factor in the price so if you want a simple but clean-looking window grab the double-hung. The slider window is an old-style and does not spruce up the appearance of the home. In addition, window companies and discount places have “left-overs” from commercial orders and part with them at great prices. So if you have an open mind for style check this out.

Window Placement

Another question to ask yourself is: “Where are they going?” This is because size and placement have an important effect on sunlight and ventilation. Smaller windows placed in the south, for example, will provide passive solar heating in the winter but will not catch the hot summer sun. Another consideration of window placement is the view. Windows are intended for the homeowner to look out on something and the “view site” should have the biggest windows.

Window Material

Wood: Window panes are glass but from what materials are the sashes and frame made? Traditionally window frames have been made from wood because they offer a good thermal break and look good. However, condensation can cause them to swell and even grow mold on the bottom edges that can make them rot if not properly protected.
Clad Wood: Painted-aluminum and vinyl-clad windows resist the elements and prevent rot. They also look great and can cost less than pure vinyl.
Vinyl Windows: The nice thing about vinyl is that they are great thermal breaks and resist condensation. They are also easy to install and, since many of the manufacturers are now making vinyl frames, they are relatively inexpensive.

Aluminum: Aluminum is the most expensive of the lot and there is no advantage for the bargain shopper. However, the powder-coated aluminum looks great.

High-Efficiency Windows

High-efficiency in the Canadian climate means that the windows will shield against warm air escaping outside through the glass and raising the heating costs. The old single-pane windows did nothing to prevent this and even putting on storm windows just slowed this process down. The new double-glazed windows are the standard but still are not that efficient, having an r-value just around as compared to r-12-18 for the wall.

Triple Pane Systems: Three panes of glass make the window heavier, especially when the area is large. These three panes block out more transfer of cold than two panes which means you will save more on fuel. This is also dependent on a proper thermal break between the panes that will not transfer heat loss in this manner.

Argon and Krypton Gas: Any space where there is cold on one side and warmth on the other creates convection currents. This how weather patterns evolve. The space between glass panes offers a microcosm of a weather system and this convection process speeds up the transfer of hot to cold. However, if these spaces are filled with a heavy, inert gas like argon this process is slowed. Krypton slows it more but it is frightfully expensive.

Low Emissive Coating (Low-e): Low-E glass coating is a great energy feature for a window and works in 2 ways: First, it lets sun's short-wave energy (visible light and heat energy) in the home that helps heat the home in winter. Second, the coating traps the heat inside the home and reduces the amount traveling to the colder exterior pane.
In summer, the low-e coating reduces radiant heat gain by reflecting the long-wave radiation back outside.

Cost

The high-efficiency models used to be around 12-15% higher than the normal ones but changes in the government energy policies – and homeowners' preferences – have encouraged manufacturers to switch over their product lines to include only the better windows. Now, this price difference is very minimal and you can get deals on triple-pane, low-e argon windows and other energy-efficient models.

Home Window Replacement; Facts, Options, and Tips

When it comes to new house window replacement options, never before has the selection been greater. Windows do more than provide light and ventilation. They add to house design, character, and individuality; framing the outside scenery as seen from within, while enhancing room décor.

Everything is available, ranging from mirror window, designer window, and safety window choices. Including casement, double sash, bay window, picture window, and skylight window options. With stained glass window, frosted, or clear glass window panes; set in wood, fiberglass, metal, or vinyl window casings.

New windows can drastically alter the appearance of a house. Replacing a standard rectangular window with a bow window, for instance, not only enhances cosmetic appeal, but creates the illusion of more space.

Selecting a new window is made easier when you first determine what it is you want to accomplish.
Do you want to replace outdated wooden windows that require old-fashioned storm window inserts? You might want to consider double or triple pane windows set in energy efficient vinyl frames. Or high efficiency aluminum frames that use non-conductive material, such as rubber or vinyl, to separate the inside and outside of the frames. Thus reducing the transference of cold through the metal; a much better choice than standard aluminum frames.

Do you want to add dimension and elegance to a room while allowing more daylight to filter into the home? An arched bow or angle bay window provides a touch of elegance while accomplishing all of the above. Improving home appearance, inside and out. New high performance styles stay cleaner longer and greatly reduce the appearance of water spots. Select a window seat design; the perfect place to sit and relax or read, with the additional advantage of hidden storage space below. Whether for appearance or for a specific purpose, consider available choices carefully and the benefits of each.

Double-hung windows that tilt in make maintenance and window cleaning easier; casement windows adapt to a variety of architecture designs and allow more natural light into a room. Garden windows have side sashes set at a 90 degree angle and a “glass roof.” The perfect choice for the horticulture enthusiast growing herbs for cooking or household plants.

Compare window style, type, and manufacturer warranty specifics with window replacement cost. And then weigh cost with benefits that fit your specific needs before making a selection.

New Window Glass Replacement to Toronto residents Needs

Window requirements for cold climate regions differ from those in warmer areas where cooling is the main concern. For colder regions, window U factor is most important. The U factor measures how well the window prevents heat from escaping; the lower the number, the less heat there is going out of the house.
Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) ratings measure how much solar heat passes through the window into the house. For hot climates, windows with a low SHGC rating (around .40 or below) are more practical than those with a higher rating. For south facing windows that get lots of direct sunlight, the addition of window shade in the form of overhangs or awnings will help keep inside temperatures cooler on hot summer days.
Regions with cold winters and hot summers require a strategy. Tailor window glass type to window placement.

It might be wise to select the lowest U factor possible for north, east, and west facing windows that get little or no winter sunlight. If you want something lower than .40 but can’t afford it, adding a third pane of glass to the window can bring the U factor down to .25 or lower.

Select south facing windows with a SHGC of .55 or higher and exploit free solar heat coming in from the window to cut down on heating costs. However, if summers are long and hot, a lower SHGC of .40 or less might be more sensible, since costs for cooling generally run about 3 times greater than heating.

New Window Installation

Whether your project is for window repair replacement, to upgrade old with new, or for cosmetic purposes; the style, type and size will determine not only the cost. Window selection will also determine whether you will require the services of an experienced professional, or can handle installation yourself as a DIY window replacement project.

Replacing standard-sized windows is a do it yourself replacement window project many homeowners with modest handyman skills can handle themselves. However, installing a large or specialty window requires a higher level of skill, so a window replacement contractor or professional window installer may be your best bet.

HandyCanadian.com is your one-stop resource. Not only for FREE articles on home renovation projects – including window installation. But for connecting with reliable home improvement and window installation service providers – without cost or obligation.

Maybe you are Toronto homeowner requiring the services of a general contractor knowledgeable about Canadian building code and local guidelines for window installation. Or perhaps you need a window washer or installer in Alberta or Quebec. Regardless of where you live in Canada, you can post project needs online and receive competitive bids from reliable contractors in your area.

View company profiles, references, portfolios, and picture galleries of recently completed projects online before making contact. And then connect with only those contractors of choice – or none at all. It’s that easy, it’s that fast, and it’s FREE! And remember…you will be under no obligation to hire anybody.

The History of Vinyl Windows

Vinyl has become a viable rival for traditional materials such as wood over the years. It has proven to be comparable to, if not more efficient in many cases, the use of windows and doors, and offers design flexibility, minimal maintenance, and efficiency in energy and cost savings.

The word "window" takes it's origin from the Norse word "vindauga" which loosely translates to "eye for the wind". The window was meant to be both functional as well as aesthetically pleasing.

After the end of World War II, there was a shortage of materials such as wood, aluminum and steel so the Germans, in their efforts to rebuild, began to use a vinyl framing, which was a new thermoplastic. By 1959, BF Goodrich Company, a vinyl resin manufacturer decided to try their hand at vinyl window production, and offered sleek designs similar to that found in wood or metal window frames. Americans found that these were much more readily acceptable designs, compared to that of the smaller and bulkier German designs.

Designs improved and popularity grew; sales of vinyl grew in the mid 1990's for both new construction and remodeling by 125%. Most window manufacturers offer vinyl windows as an option along with their more traditional wooden and metal frames. Innovations in vinyl formulas have helped to improve flexibility in designs.

With improvements having been made over the last few decades to the manufacturing process of vinyl windows, maintenance is practically non-existent and non-essential. If the product requires a bit of cleaning, common household cleaners will make short work of the task, leaving the window as good as new. The average life span of a vinyl window varies depending on the use of the item, but on average warranties are offered for 20 to 30 years. To ensure the quality of the window's construction and performance, most vinyl windows produced today are certified by a third-party company and independent laboratory testing is performed in accordance with stringent industry standards.

Some of the newer innovations made to vinyl are the addition of sawdust and cellular foam. The wood mixed with the vinyl has made a new option of embossing the vinyl so that it looks like wood and can even be stained or painted like wood. The use of cellular foam has made huge differences in the shapes and appearances of the trims. These are great to use as they do not rot or decay at all. Vinyl windows and other products made by the same process are color fast because the color is not just on the surface but is extruded through the entire product. The product is not only rot and rust free, but is impervious to pests like ants and termites. When made properly, the product also contains UV inhibitors to protect from sun damage and cracking or splitting.

Windows made of vinyl framing are suitable for most building needs but cannot be used in high rise buildings or in places where there are consistently high winds. Tests on the windows are conducted to determine the limits the vinyl windows can withstand safely. Over the years the cost of vinyl windows has become much more affordable due to the popularity and easy accessibility to the goods required to manufacture the vinyl or vinyl composites. As a result they have become a cost effective alternative to metal and wooden frames.

About Vinyl Replacement Windows

Vinyl replacement windows are attractive, easy to maintain, and energy-efficient. Installation is done either by the new-construction method or by retrofitting the new windows directly over the old window frames. The money that homeowners will save on energy bills alone makes vinyl replacement windows well worth considering.

Introduction

People who buy older homes often want to replace the old single-pane aluminum-framed windows, which aren't very attractive or energy-efficient. Vinyl-framed windows are a good choice as replacements because they fit tightly into the existing window spaces, look great, require little maintenance and are extremely energy-efficient.

Features

Vinyl replacement windows have several features that home owners may like. In extremely hot or cold climates, double-paned vinyl windows will keep the interior temperature of the house constant and thus will help homeowners control utility bills. Some double-paned vinyl windows have muntins, a grid pattern between the double panes, that mimic the look of antique, multipaned windows. Besides standard locks that secure the windows when they're closed, vinyl windows usually have vent locks, which lock a window that is partly opened, so you can benefit from fresh air without worrying about inviting a break-in.

New Construction

A home owner who chooses vinyl replacement windows can decide to have either new construction or retrofit installation. New construction involves taking the old window out completely, framing out the opening to fit the new window and then installing it. If you choose new construction, you can expect some damage to be done in the process, though, of course, once the windows are installed, the damage will have been repaired. New construction also takes longer to complete. On the plus side, when it's finished, new construction looks like a custom installation, and the fit of the window into the wall is tight and thus less likely to let air move in or out of the house.

Retrofitting

Retrofit windows go right over the top of the old window frames, so there's no damage to the house and the job gets finished relatively completely. Retrofit windows are more prone to leak, however, and you will lose some glass area, which means you will get less light into the rooms. If your windows are small to begin with, this could be a serious issue.

Buying Vinyl Replacement Windows

Most companies that sell vinyl replacement windows use outside salespeople who will come to your house, measure your windows and describe their products to you. Be prepared to spend some time with the salesperson, and also be prepared for sticker shock. Vinyl replacement windows are expensive --- there's just no getting around it. Still, the added energy efficiency will bring you some immediate return on your investment. In addition, vinyl replacement windows are a definite asset when the time comes to sell your home --- they can boost the asking price considerably, so don't forget to tell your real estate agent that your house has them.

How to Paint Vinyl Replacement Windows

Whether you want to cover up damage, freshen up faded color, or simply change to a new color, it is possible to paint vinyl replacement windows. The key is to use latex paint, which will expand and contract right along with the vinyl. Properly preparing the vinyl to accept the paint is also essential.

Preparation

1. 
   
   Step 1
   
   Wipe the vinyl window frames down with a damp rag and mild detergent to remove any dust, dirt or debris.
   
   
2. 
   
   Step 2
   
   Sand the vinyl with a fine-grit sandpaper. You only need to slightly roughen the surface, and rough sanding will show, so sand gently with even strokes.
   
   
3. 
   
   Step 3
   
   Wipe the vinyl down again to remove any debris created by the sanding. Let the vinyl dry completely.
   
   

   Priming and Painting

   
   
4. 
   
   Step 1
   
   Lay out a drop cloth to protect the surrounding area. Open and stir the primer. Dampen some rags and keep them nearby in case of accidents, drips or spills.
   
   
5. 
   
   Step 2
   
   Pour a small amount of primer into a container that you can easily hold in your hand while painting.
   
   
6. 
   
   Step 3
   
   Brush the latex primer on to the vinyl, making sure to cover all areas, including corners and edges. Apply the primer in a thin coat only. It will not cover up all the color of the vinyl, but it will allow the paint to do so. Brush strokes and direction of the strokes does not matter. The important part of applying primer is to cover all areas.
   
   
7. 
   
   Step 4
   
   Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding. This usually takes two to four hours.
   
   
8. 
   
   Step 5
   
   Pour a small amount of paint into a small clean container and get a clean brush.
   
   
9. 
   
   Step 6
   
   Start at the highest point and work in one direction, brushing the paint onto the vinyl window frame in long, even strokes. A a thin coat. Work methodically and carefully, making sure the paint covers all corners, edges and crevices. If the paint is not providing complete coverage, do not apply a thicker coat. Simply let the first coat dry completely and apply a second coat.
   
   
10. 
    
    Step 7
    
    Let the paint dry slightly, but not completely, before removing the painter's tape.
    
    
11. 
    
    Step 8
    
    Keep a small artist's brush handy to touch up any areas where the painter's tape smudges or removes the paint.
    
    
12. 
    
    Step 9
    
    Let the paint dry thoroughly and then inspect the window carefully. If you find spots that you missed, use the artists brush to carefully touch them up. The touch-up spots will blend in as they dry and you will have a perfectly painted vinyl replacement window.
    
    

Aluminum Windows - The Most Popular Choice

By: James Newell

Are you looking for windows that are long lasting and require little upkeep? Then you may just want to consider aluminum windows. The main benefits are that they do not have to be painted and are long lasting working properly for years. You can choose the color, size and shape of these windows. They are also rather simple to install.

When you go to install aluminum windows, you have to be sure to thoroughly inspect the windows before hand to ensure they are free from any damage. You have to be sure that the size is correct along with making sure that it is the window that you selected in regards to color and design. The amount of experience of the installers is another matter that you should be aware of and you should know about the installation process as well.


Once the aluminum windows have been examined, the packing material is removed and windows are cleaned with a dry cloth. The locks are then fastened and sealed to ensure there are no gaps. A self-adhesive flash is adhered to the corners of the windows. Sill pans are then readied. The opening that the window is going in must be examined next to be sure the opening and sill are both square.

Once the aluminum windows are completely installed, there are still steps to take. Weep holes have to be free of any debris and sealants and should not be sealed at all. The installation has to be inspected to make sure there was no damage or flaws that occurred to the windows during the installation process.

Once all of the aluminum windows have been installed and inspected, you should make sure that all waste materials are removed from the area. You want to be sure to leave it clean.

Window Replacement: How To Information

By: James Newell

The house looks great but either you feel a draft or there is something that is not right when you look at it. It may be time to consider window replacement as a solution to your problem. Some research into the types of windows and the cost should be done before jumping into this project and you should also set a budget before hand, as this can get expensive.

Things to consider with window replacement:


� What is the reason you are replacing the windows?
� How many windows need to be replaced?
� Budget
� What type of window do you want?


When it comes to window replacement, the reasons will vary and they should be clear to you before you begin. Leaky windows can cost you a great deal in electricity cost; this problem may be fixable by weather stripping depending on the cause of the leak. If you want to change the look of the home completely then replacing the windows will help but you must know the look you want before hand.
 

Knowing the number of windows that have to be replaced will help in setting the budget for the window replacement. Every window will cost money so knowing the amount needed will help to figure the total in advance once you have done the comparisons of the prices.

The type of windows that you want will affect the price as well. There are numerous options when it comes to window replacement; a simple search will come back with hundreds of manufactures and styles to choose from with a wide range of prices available. The matter of what fits into the budget will depend on several factors and whether or not you decide to have them professionally installed.

Window replacement should be done carefully to ensure you are satisfied.

Why Windows Lose Heat

Before you learn how energy efficient windows can save money on energy bills, it's good to understand exactly how your old windows are losing heat energy. There are four ways that heat energy escapes out the window:
1. Conduction
When warm inside air hits the glass and frame of the window, heat energy is transferred molecule-to-molecule through the window material, gradually warming it up. When cold air from the outside touches the warm material, some heat is transferred to the air and carried away on the wind like soup getting cooler when you blow on it.
2. Convection
Warm air rises and cool air falls and this is as true in the space between the panes of glass in a double paned window as it is everywhere else. This transfer of heat from the bottom of the window to the top of the window means the bottom of the window is constantly cooler and is therefore drawing more heat from the air inside the house.
3. Air Leakage
Ill-fitting windows with bad seals and cracked caulking allow air to pass between the window frame, the glass and the wall. Since warm air will always flow into a region with cooler air, windows that leak will allow warm air from inside the house to flow out and be lost.
4. Radiation
Heat travels through the air from any hot source in the form of infra-red and ultraviolet radiation. This radiation passes through regular glass, heating air and objects on the other side. This means that windows act as large portals through which heat inside the house can radiate out.

When shopping for new energy efficient windows it is important to find out how they address all four methods of heat loss. The very best products can reduce your heating costs by hundreds of dollars a year!

Canadian Window and Door Manufacturers Association.

Canadian Choice Windows & Doors

At Canadian Choice Windows & Doors we have committed ourselves to customer satisfaction, with high quality, innovative doors and windows, manufactured and installed by a skilled work force. We offer the finest replacement vinyl windows, energy saving insulated steel doors, aluminum windows and vinyl patio doors, entrance doors, storm doors and porch enclosures - all at competitive prices. Vinyl windows became the most popular windows in Canada for the simple reason that they're built to last - they never chip, peel or rust. Vinyl windows are corrosion resistant, with enhanced strength and energy performance.

Your saving on heating and air conditioning costs helps you pay for your new windows. These quality products are economically priced to compete with other window framing and significantly outperform. In the new Millenium vinyl windows are the "best buy" by any standard! All Canadian Choice windows and doors come with a lifetime transferable warranty. We are so sure about the quality and resistibility of our products, that we are willing to fix or replace any product that was purchased from Canadian Choice!

All our windows include Energy Advantage Low E Glass, a system of Argon gas filled sealed chambers that provide thermal efficiency giving immediate savings on your monthly energy bill. In fact, we can save you up to 30% off a year with windows and doors installed by Canadian Choice Windows and Doors. Enjoy and relax the pretty fury of winter or the exotic heat of the summer with Canadian Choice Windows and Doors.

Please call us today to schedule your Free In-Home Consultation & Estimate! Tel: 416-848-6930 | Toll Free: 1-866-807-8064