From heat waves to rain storms to winter cold snaps, our homes keep us safe. And while you may not pay much attention to your windows when the weather is calm, you’ll certainly notice when drafts, water leaks, ice build-up or other issues disrupt your comfortable home.
Emergency repairs are more than just inconvenient. If you wait until an emergency to search “window installation near me,” you may end up paying too much, purchasing low quality products or receiving poor installation service. So if you’re noticing minor window issues now, start researching window installation companies, window types and material options — it will save you time, money and inconvenience in the future!
Window types:
- Casement and awning: Excellent for ventilation, as the entire window swings open from a side hinge to bring in a breeze. The casement can be positioned strategically so that even a four or ten centimetre opening can act like a sail on a boat, directing the breeze inside. Casement windows are also extremely energy efficient thanks to the compression seal technology.
- Single-hung: One stationary sash and one operable sash. The operable sash slides up and down on a track, and can also tilt into the room for easy cleaning.
- Double-hung: Two operable sashes, which can be opened together or separately. Hung windows are popular for smaller spaces and high traffic areas.
- Custom-shaped: Measure the rough opening of your home’s current window, and create a unique shape, individual to you.
- Fixed picture: Fixed windows maximize natural light and though they are inoperable, can be paired with operable windows for added versatility.
- Bay and bow: Bay windows combine a large fixed window with two operable casement windows on either side. This angled window unit also provides an extra seating area. Bow windows operate with a similar design, but combine four or five casement windows for a wider view.
- Sliding: A low maintenance window style with few moving parts, that still provides ample ventilation. The operable window sash tilts out for easy cleaning. Sliding windows come in a variety of configurations including single tilt (one stationary and one operable window), double tilt (two operable sashes) and end vent (two sliding end sashes and a fixed centre sash).
- Hopper: A window which opens from either the top or the bottom, and usually opens inwards. Install the latch at either the top or the bottom. Often used for egress, but must meet your local building code.
Double pane windows are now standard in Canadian homes. If you have single pane windows in your home, they are no longer considered energy efficient and should be replaced.
Double pane windows are constructed from two layers of glass with argon or krypton gas sealed in between, offering fantastic thermal performance that keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass in your window, that’s a sign that the seal on your window is broken and it’s no longer energy efficient. Contact your manufacturer to find out if your window is still under warranty, or consider window replacement.
Triple pane windows have three layers of glass, making them 50 per cent more efficient than double pane windows.
Glass with a Low-E coating reflects the sun’s rays away from your house in the summer, and blocks heat from escaping your home in the winter. The Low-E coating comes in different strengths, depending on the amount of sunlight you want to block.
Thanks to CleanBC’s Better Homes rebates you can receive up to $100.00 per window replacement, for up to 20 windows in your home. Find out if you’re eligible for CleanBC Rebates today!
If it’s time for a window replacement, consult with window experts and find a cost-effective solution for your home. Call 778-400-2063 today!
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