Window Renovation Archives - Walbert Windows

We see that clients focus, more than ever, on energy efficiency and security options of windows. There is also a trend for windows and doors to get taller and bigger. The tendency is more glass and less frame, as clients are looking for the modern, “open space design”. The manufacturers respond by introducing innovative and functional products that meet the current design demand.*

The top material for windows is still vinyl. However, there is more and more interest in aluminum or wood. These materials are great to use when it comes to manufacturing large glass surface windows. Walbert Windows offers aluminum windows with a wide range of clad options available.

aluminum-panel window We have great news for Albertans! The energy efficiency government program rebate will continue in 2018. If you would like to upgrade your windows to more efficient triple pane, talk to Marius today at 780 995 – 1731.

* “The 2018 Industry pulse”, Window and Door

“Double or triple pane?” is the question I often hear from the customers. Both have pros and cons but I’m a big believer in triple pane. Here are some of the arguments for both and I leave the decision up to you.

Triple pane windows

reduce the outside noise
lower risk of condensation in the winter
insulate better as they have an additional air chamber
better “R” value and “V” factor

Double

generally speaking all of the parameters listed above are worst
usually double pane windows are less expensive however the price depends on the size of the window, the bigger the window the higher the price. If you have a big window, the
price difference between dual and triple won’t be significant.

looking at a window — Deciding if I need new windows.

Have you wondered if this is the right time to start looking for new windows? We will try to help you to answer this question so you can decide yourself if your gut is right.

One of the visible signs, that you need new windows, is when you see a water condensation between your window panes. When you take a closer look you might also notice dirt built up. If you can see impurities in between the panes together with a condensation it is a high time to get new windows.

During the winter time, try to walk beside your window and check if you can feel any draft. If you feel a cool breeze, it means something is not right. Call us and we will take a closer look and assess the condition of your windows.

The dreaded ice build up is an indicator that your windows don’t perform well. You should get your windows checked by a professional to see what is causing the issue and weather you need new ones.

Another guideline, that we give our customer, is the age of windows. If your house was built by a builder, 15 to 20 years ago, there is a high chance that you’ll need to start looking for new windows. Most of the builders install lower quality windows and any inspector will tell you that their life expectancy doesn’t exceed 20 years.

If you would like us to have a look at your windows, see how they perform, call us at 780 995 1731.

The simplest answer is this: if your windows are installed improperly, they won’t perform the way they are supposed to. What’s worse, with time they may cause serious problems for your house, such as leakage, and subsequent damage to construction, framing, and flooring.

The majority of people who have never installed windows won’t see a difference between correctly and incorrectly measured windows. Installing a window that is too small creates gaps between the window frame and the wall. Inexperienced installers may put too much insulation to fill this gap. If what they use is spray foam, it can warp the window frame. If they use fiberglass instead, the window won’t perform properly. Another downside is a window with a smaller glass surface that limits your view.

It’s always a good idea to ask your installers what type of materials they use. Good quality materials like spray foam will boost a window’s long-term performance. Poor quality materials like fiberglass won’t insulate as well.

When talking about the technicalities of the window installation process, we should also mention shimming – a shim is a thin wedge of wood used for positioning window or door units within their respective openings. Its placement is critical to proper window installation. Shimming positioning depends on window size and type, however, if shimming is placed in a wrong spot, the glass will subside overtime, which may cause glass and frame breakage.

Have you ever experienced any of these issues and are looking for professional installation and product advice? We will address all your concerns and deliver worry-free windows and doors, along with professional installation. Call us at (780) 705 6275 or email us at @maskdevelopments.ca

Just like with any other major renovation project, there are countless options when buying windows and doors. We won’t cover all of them here. Instead, we will give you some hints on how to navigate through the window and door buying process in a quick and easy way:

First, decide on your window or door quality, taking into account factors like:

your budget,
reasons for replacing: long term investment, installation for re-sale, comfort
codes

This will help narrow down your choices and give you a better idea of what you should buy.

Next, select your window advisors. Generally, there are two options to choose from: window companies and independent contractors. Both offer similar quality products and options. The major difference between the two is that window companies usually employ in-house crews to install their windows. If you decide to hire a contractor, you can easily research his credentials. Contractors are usually smaller, local companies that strive to deliver the highest level of service. They care about their reputation in their community, as they have to personally stand behind their work.
Before making any decisions, ask your professional window contractor for advice. They will show you the difference between different materials used, and help you with inspiration regarding styles and finishes. They have immense knowledge about windows, as well as on product installation. They also have excellent market knowledge, and what’s most important, they have seen the types of things that can go wrong and know how to avoid them as far as installation goes.
Finally, we strongly encourage our customers to visit our partner window showroom. Seeing everything with your own eyes will give you a better understanding of windows, material types and functions. When you arrive at a showroom, try to see and feel the difference between lower and higher quality windows. Touch different types of windows to feel the material. Look inside the window profile. Looking at a picture will never substitute for an actual viewing and touching of the window or door.

Have these tips been helpful? Please give us a call at 780 995 1053 and we will answer all of your further technical and general questions.

Home » Blog » Window Renovation

Category: Window Renovation

2018 Windows and Doors Trends

Double or triple pane?

Triple pane windows

Double

Four signs that you need to replace your windows

Why installation matters:

What to consider when buying windows?