Casement Windows

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What Are the Benefits of Casement Windows? 

Casement windows are a popular choice, but are they right for you? Learn the top advantages of using casement windows to replace existing home windows and find out when we don’t recommend these windows.

What is a Casement Window?

Casement windows consist of a flat pane of glass with a hinge on the side. The windows swing open horizontally, by a hand crank that’s on the window sill, as compared to standard single hung windows that open vertically.

Benefits of Casement Windows

Casement windows offer several unique advantages for homeowners.

Ventilation – With a single hung window, you can open half of the window. With a casement window, you can open the entire window for superior ventilation. The open sash guides fresh air into your home for a refreshing breeze.

Casement windows can harness a side breeze that would otherwise pass right by your home since the open window acts as a funnel for air passing by. If you live in a crowded area where there’s not much space between your home and your neighbour’s home, you might not get ventilation without casement windows.

If you enjoy fresh air and want to open up your home, casement windows are a better pick than single hung windows.

Clear Views – If you’ve got a beautiful view, you want to enjoy the view without sash going through mid-way up the window, which could obstruct your view. Casement windows don’t have these lines, so they offer an unobstructed view to appreciate.

Stronger Security – The design of casement windows offers better security than other windows, which may appeal to homeowners who are nervous about break-ins. Casement windows have a multi-point lock system, which makes it much harder to break in. The locks on these windows have a hook shape and embed into the frame, to keep thieves from prying open the window.

Weatherproof – Casement windows’ strong locking mechanism keeps wind, rain, and snow from penetrating the home.

Everyone’s Favourite Job: Cleaning Vinyl Windows

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How to Clean Vinyl Window Frames

Vinyl windows are supposed to be low maintenance, but this trait does not exempt them from the need for a good spring cleaning. A combination of spring rains, muddy ground, and high pollen counts can leave windows streaked with dirt and debris. Admittedly, cleaning vinyl window frames does not sound like a fun thing to do just as the weather turns nice, but it’s so easy and pays off in the long run. Wondering what is the best way to clean vinyl windows? Get our best tips for how to clean vinyl window frames to restore your windows this spring.

Exterior Vinyl Window Cleaning Tips

Cleaning the outside of vinyl window frames will pay off in terms of curb appeal. Create a simple cleaning solution by mixing 1-1/2 cups of distilled white vinegar with one gallon of warm water (pro tip: Add the juice of half a lemon to this to mask the vinegar odour) or mix a teaspoon of mild soap in a gallon of warm water. Rinse the outside of the windows with water to dislodge dirt and debris.

Once the windows have been rinsed, apply the cleaning solution to the glass and frames. Use a soft sponge or a lint-free cloth to clean the vinyl windows. If you’re using a soapy solution, rinse the windows again to prevent soap scum from drying on your windows, then use a lint-free cloth to dry the windows. If you’ve chosen the vinegar solution, dry the windows with a cloth to enjoy gleaming windows. That’s it, that’s all you need to know on how to clean vinyl window frames and glass outside your home.

How to Clean the Inside of Vinyl Windows

Here as well, you will want to remove all dirt and debris from the frame, tracks, and screen before you deep clean those windows. Your vacuum comes in handy to dislodge soil from the window. If you’re noticing a lot of dirt along the window sill, your windows may need weather stripping or sealing, which can block air (and dirt) from passing through the window.

When it comes to cleaning vinyl window tracks, cleaning wipes work well for getting into the corners. Run wipes up and down along the tracks to pick up dust and dirt. You will know you’re done when the wipes don’t discolour from contact with the window.

You may use the same cleaning solution to clean the inside of the window as the exterior. Cleaning vinyl window frames inside your home is straightforward. Simply apply your soap or vinegar solution to the window frame, working from the top down. This way, you will not accidentally drip on areas you’ve already cleaned. Elbow grease can help you remove dirt and debris from the window without damaging the frames. If you encounter a stubborn stain, scrub the area with a soft-bristled cleaning brush.

Some people like to use a squeegee to remove the cleaning solution without leaving streaks on the window. However, your lint-free cloth will also work to clean and dry the interior of the window frame. Paper towels are a poor choice to clean the window since they will leave lint particles on your glass.

If you have sun exposure, you may notice the window cleaner starts to dry before you’ve finished the job. Another of our top window cleaning tips is to work on an overcast day when you will not be fighting the sun. If your windows look cloudy or dirty even after you have cleaned them, it may be time to replace your vinyl windows. Explore high-quality vinyl windows from Window Nation or reach out to get a free estimate for replacement windows.

Condensation

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How to Get Rid of Condensation Inside Windows

Knowing how to get rid of condensation inside windows is a very important matter. Condensation covering your windows is more than just a nuisance; the potential damage to your home from rot, mold, and mildew, is far more unpleasant. While condensation on the window pane can be wiped away, you might be wondering how to absorb condensation from windows when it happens between panes of glass. Get our recommendations on tackling condensation inside windows to clear up your view and safeguard your home.

 

Causes of Window Condensation

Excess humidity is a main cause of condensation on windows. Dehumidifiers take air out of the environment, keeping moisture off the windows. Alternatively, you may try a moisture eliminator, which draws excess moisture out of the air. Some moisture eliminating products contain scents, so these can do double duty if your home has a musty odour.

If you are looking for solutions on how to deal with window condensation in the bathroom, you may need a stronger bathroom fan. By running the bathroom fan when taking a shower or bath, you can draw moisture out of the bathroom and vent it away from the home, before the moisture can do damage.

If you take these steps to deal with window condensation and you notice your windows have condensation between the panes, it could be a different issue.

Why Windows Get Condensation Inside

Condensation happens when water vapour hits a cool surface and condenses, due to the natural temperature difference. For water vapour to condense in between window panes, either the seal on double hung windows has broken or the desiccant, which absorbs 

moisture in between the panes of a double hung window, can no longer keep up with the excess moisture.

While you can troubleshoot causes of window condensation and fix the problem when the panes have moisture, there is no simple solution for how to get rid of condensation inside windows.

If the windows in your home are older, their seals are likely held in place with caulk. Due to seasonal shifts in weather, caulk can weaken over time, which may lead the seals to fail.

Newer windows most frequently use a glazing bead spacer to hold the glass in place. Seals on these windows fail due to age.

How to Stop Window Condensation on the Inside

If you have older windows, where the seals are held in place with caulk, you may be able to replace the caulk and bolster the seal. This is usually a short-term fix, because the window technician who repairs the seal cannot refill gas that escaped from the window. Your windows will be draughty without the gas fill, since the gas blocks air transfer. Your utility bills may increase as well. Caulking seals won’t stop window condensation long term either. Most of the time, your best bet is to replace your old windows with

efficient replacement windows that have a tight seal. When you replace the windows, the condensation should stop since you have removed the root cause.

If you’ve been wondering how to get rid of condensation inside windows, take action to replace failed seals before the excess moisture damages your home. Reach out today to get a quote for replacement windows, or to learn more about options for financing window replacement so you can safeguard your home without going over budget.

Steel Doors vs Fibreglass Doors

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When it comes to choosing a new entry door for your home, it can feel like a daunting decision. Not only is there an incredible selection of door styles to choose from, you also have to take into consideration the material of the door. For a long time, wood has been the material of choice for many homeowners. Its beauty and durability made this material ideal. But, with advancements in science and fabrication, wood is no longer the best choice. When it comes time to replace a door, most people turn to fibreglass and steel to safeguard their investment. Fibreglass and steel are both more resistant to the elements, easier on maintenance requirements, better on energy efficiency, and often a less expensive option than wood. But, how do they compare to each other? And what features do they come with? We’re glad you asked.

STEEL DOORS

If you’re looking to have new doors installed on your home, you can’t go wrong with steel. This is a versatile material that comes with a lot of options. Some may even surprise you!

When you think of a steel door, do you picture an old rusting door on the back of a building that only gives access to an alleyway? While a reinforced steel door is great for rear door security, you can get a whole lot more style and elegance from steel than this. But it is important to note that when it comes to home security, steel might give a little more protection than fibreglass.

Do you want windows in your new doors? There is a wide selection of glass options available for steel doors. You don’t have to worry about fibreglass beating out steel in this department.

While steel is strong and durable, it is more prone to scratching and denting than fibreglass. Though it is possible to fix dents with an auto-body repair kit, and cover scratches with putty and paint, this is something to consider when getting steel.

Steel can become hot to the touch on a hot sunny day, but that heat isn’t going to easily get through the insulation that comes with these doors. You’re not going to lose any energy saving benefits by choosing steel.

FIBREGLASS DOORS

It has been said by many experts that fibreglass comes with all the benefits of steel, without any of its limitations. This is only partly true. In almost every way, fibreglass doors are slightly better than steel. But this material will crack if it is struck hard. Steel will not. Here are some other things you may want to know about fibreglass.

There are many styles, colours, and grains to choose from when selecting fibreglass as the material for your new doors. If you’re looking for doors that will closely approximate the look of real wood, this is the best option.

With fibreglass, you don’t even have to think about rust. While it is fairly easy to keep a steel door rust-free, some homeowners prefer to not have to worry about it. If that sounds like you, fibreglass is the way to go.

Exposure to heat over time can cause doors to crack, swell, and warp, which can have an adverse effect on the frame and seal of an entry door. While steel and fibreglass are more resistant to this than wood, fibreglass is slightly better. This is a material that will hold up against extreme temperature fluctuations, and keep its shape for a long time, but you’ll have to pay a little more for this added durability.

When it comes to getting a new door for your home, you can’t go wrong with either of these two materials. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading, let Window World help. Schedule your free, no-obligation in-home estimate today, and let’s get started!

Single Hung vs. Double Hung Windows

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Cleaning windows can be a drag. This item on the honey-do list may even be worse than folding laundry. Most of the time you need to wait until the temperate is warm enough to go outside, wash them down, climb a ladder and then work carefully so there isn’t any streaking or your work has been in vain. Some people may go to the extent to have the windows on their home professionally washed just to get rid of the hassle.

Difference Between Single and Double Hung Windows

The major difference between single and double hung windows is in how each window is opened. Single hung windows have a bottom panel or sash that moves vertically, while the upper sash or panel is fixed in place.

Double hung windows are different from single hung windows in that you have the ability to open both sashes. This means you can open both ends of your window up or down. In addition, both of the panels can be tilted down and in for convenient cleaning.

Cleaning Single Hung vs Double Hung Windows

One of the major factors that influence the choice between single hung vs double hung windows is how easy it is to clean these windows.

Cleaning windows can be a drag. This item on the honey-do list may even be worse than folding laundry. Most of the time you need to wait until the weather is temperate enough to go outside, wash them down, climb a ladder and then work carefully so there isn’t any streaking, or your work has been in vain. Some people may go to the extent to have the windows on their home professionally washed just to get rid of the hassle. If your home has single hung windows, you are on the unfortunate end of window cleaning.

Double hung windows open, literally, a whole new world of possibilities of enjoying your windows. Cleaning double hung windows is so easy that you will wonder why you didn’t replace them sooner. All you have to do is open the top, tilt, clean and tilt it back again. So simple!

Home Ventilation with Single Hung vs Double Hung Windows

Have you ever wanted to open a window while it’s raining to get a fresh breeze? Double hung windows allow you to open the top just a bit so that cool breeze and ventilation can be allowed through without damaging the window sill from the rain drops. Double hung windows provide a great means of ventilation. Being able to pull down from the top with the bottom section still closed lets you bring a breeze into the home from above and maybe help release some heat during the warmer months.

Single Hung vs Double Hung Windows Safety

Another feature that stands out about double hung windows is safety. If you have children that like to hang around windows, when you open the top half of your double hung window instead of the bottom, you can rest assure that you have made it quite hard for an accident to happen.

Single Hung vs Double Hung Windows Cost

Single hung windows tend to be purchased for a couple reasons. They are in the lower end of the price range spectrum if you are on a budget, and maybe there is a small space where a window is needed and single hung is the only option. Those two reasons don’t even come close to the benefits of having double hung windows in your home. When purchasing a home, it can be exciting to see that this feature has been added as a little extra touch and shows that thought and care were taken in the home.

Whether you are looking to renovate, you are purchasing a home, building a home, or even just looking for a refreshing new look, double hung windows are the way to go. At Window World, we take pride in every project set in front of us and we strive for all of our clients to feel comforted by the level of service we provide.

The ease and functionality of a double hung window from Window World will leave you wondering why you have waited to make the change. We put our customers first and work daily to solve problems by installing solutions. Window World, your best choice for the best in window and door solutions.

Double Pane or Triple Pane Windows?

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Have you decided to invest in replacement windows? What made you finally decide to take the leap? Was it the incredible energy saving benefits new windows offer? If so, you’re not alone. For a typical home, 40% of the annual energy budget goes toward heating and cooling costs and replacing the windows in your home is great way to keep more of that money in your pocket.

Since energy efficiency is such an important fact to consider when getting replacement windows, we are often asked, “How much better are triple pane windows than double pane windows at saving money on energy bills?” This is a great question, and definitely an important question to address. But, deciding between these two window types isn’t as easy as calculating cost to efficiency. Here’s what you need to know.

WHY TRIPLE PANE WINDOWS ARE THE BEST

Folks who chose triple pane glass windows choose them for the comfort. If you measure the temperature on the inside glass of a double pane window and a triple pane window on a cold winter day, the interior glass of the double pane window is going to be cooler. For this reason, homes that have all triple glass windows are cozier. Triple pane windows are within a degree or two of the wall temperatures at any given time. This creates a high level of occupant comfort and reduces convection currents and drafts. If comfort is your biggest concern, triple pane windows will be the best option.

A reduction in energy bills isn’t the only reason customers choose triple pane glass. Some of our customers are also looking for a reduction in noise. The extra pane of glass makes this window option the number one choice for keeping noise out. If you have noisy neighbours or live near a busy street, triple pane windows can really make a difference.

WHY DOUBLE PANE WINDOWS ARE THE BEST

If you break down the math, double pane windows are the best bang for the buck. This is probably why it is the number one window choice. When you upgrade your current windows to double pane windows, you’re going to notice the difference. A standard double pane window with argon gas is going to reflect 90% of the energy and only let 10% through. That means on a sunny day, 90% of the heat from the sun is going to stay outside, and only 10% is going to get in. On a cold winter day, 90% of the heat from your furnace is going to stay inside your home and only 10% is going to leak out. In comparison, a typical triple pane window will reflect 97% of energy and only allow 3% to pass through. Since triple pane windows can cost ⅓ more than double pane windows, it makes sense to go with double pane windows if you’re looking for the best deal up front.

Do you like natural light? When you have two panes of glass instead of three, you’re going to have fewer coatings for the sun to get through. That means double pane windows will allow more light into your home. It is a subtle difference, but one to consider.

Mold Prevention for Wood Windows

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How to Prevent Mold

Mold on window sills is unsightly, but it can also be hazardous to your health. Therefore, knowing how to prevent mold on windows is extremely important. The good news is, if caught early, mold can be removed from your window before it causes environmental damage. Find out the best ways to remove mold from window sills, then learn how to prevent it entirely.

How to Remove Mold from Wood Window Frames

Time is of the essence when it comes to removing mold from window sills. If you ignore the problem, hoping it will go away on its own, the mold will spread.

To clean mold, you will need bleach, dish soap, water, a plastic scraper or brush, dry cloth, and safety supplies. We recommend that you wear cleaning gloves, eye goggles, and a protective face mask when tackling mold, so you don’t inhale any of the mold spores.

Mist the mold with a spray bottle before you start to clean the window sills. The light coating of water weighs down the mold spores, so they don’t release into the air when you start scraping.

Mix dish soap with water and apply the soapy solution to the window sills. The soap and heat will start to loosen the mold. The mold should start to come up, but if it doesn’t, take your plastic brush or scraper and apply pressure.

Follow this with a bleach solution, using 1/2 cup of bleach per gallon of water. Apply the bleach solution to the window, let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse the window sills with water.

Once the windows have been cleaned, dry the sills thoroughly or open the window and allow the sills to air dry.

How to Prevent Mold on Window Sills

Removing mold from your window sills is only half the battle. To succeed, you will need to prevent mold from growing on the windows by removing moisture from your home. Ventilation helps you here by keeping air flowing through your home.

If you’re wondering how to safely remove mold from window sills, start by replacing old ventilation fans in home bathrooms. Newer models may be more efficient. Open windows throughout the home so air can flow. Fresh air can also improve the air quality in your home, removing some of those musty odours.

The two main causes of mold on windows are condensation and leaks. By removing condensation from your home, you can decrease moisture — a key component for how to prevent mold on window sills. Use moisture eliminators or purchase a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air. Improve your home’s ventilation system so moisture is carried away from the home and vented through the attic. During summer, keep the air conditioning above 21C (70F).

If your windows are leaky, it may be better to replace your windows rather than to repair them or continue battling mold in your  home.

Replacement Windows in Historical Homes

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Historic homes often come with old, draughty windows comprised of a single pane of glass – windows that do little to keep out the heat and cold. Yet some homeowners think that replacing old windows with modern ones can mar both the historic look and feel of the home and the home’s value. Here’s what you need to know about replacement windows for old homes.

Should You Restore or Replace Old Windows?

If you truly love your old windows, you may prefer to look into restoring old windows instead of replacing them. A historic window specialist can fix window panes, free stuck upper sashes, and weather-strip old windows. Combined with interior or exterior storm windows, restored old windows will block many drafts.

However, not all old windows can be restored. If the wood around the windows has begun to rot, for example, the damage is already done. In this case, replacing the old windows with a modern window that looks historic may be the best bet.

If you aren’t sure what to do, reach out to a window contractor with experience working in historic homes or give us a call for a free in-home consultation. There are many beautiful replacement windows for old homes but not all contractors understand how to maintain historic homes, so it is vital that you find the right window company for the job.

Replacement Windows for Historic Homes

Replacement windows will always be more energy efficient than old windows due to the construction: modern windows feature a triple pane of glass with many energy-saving features. You’ll earn back a large share of what you spend on replacing windows when you sell your home if you choose the right type of window.

Maintaining the Historic Character of Your Home

For a historic home, which has old wood windows, you will get the highest resale value by replacing those old wood windows with newer wood windows that combine energy efficient features with historic details. Old windows have what’s known as divided light – a grid across the window – so it’s important to retain this aspect of the window when choosing replacement windows for old homes. You may also want to select replacement windows that match the color of your existing windows.

The size of the original windows should be maintained when replacing windows. This is not a situation where you’d want to knock out an external wall to enlarge old windows into a picture window, for instance. When in doubt, let your home’s historic character guide your choices or reach out to a local historic preservation committee for insight on replacing windows that honor your old home’s best qualities.

Historic Window Replacement Cost

Since wood windows are more expensive than vinyl windows due to the material, the historic window replacement cost will be higher than the cost of replacing windows in a pre-existing home without historical character. However, this is really not an area where you can scrimp and expect to maintain your property’s value. Many budget-conscious homeowners have tried replacing old windows with Economical modern windows only to find these windows detracted from their home’s appeal on the real estate market.

Once you’ve decided to replace your old windows, start searching for replacement windows that will complement the style of your home.

Replacement Windows from Window World

At Window World, we offer a range of vinyl and wood replacement windows, including many styles that are suited for use in historic houses. Let our replacement window experts help you make the right choice today. You can also schedule a free in-home estimate and get all the information you need from the comfort of your own home.

Replacing Your Windows

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What Do Replacement Windows Cost?

Searching for the best replacement window company to fit your needs can be daunting. With so many different companies offering similar products at different prices, how do you know which is the best choice for you? Understandably, the cost of the windows is an important factor in choosing your window replacement company. The first question you’ll want to ask your exterior design consultant is how much your project will cost? Unfortunately, there is no “one-price-fits-all” cost for replacement windows from Window World as all of our windows are custom-made, causing the price of the windows to vary from project to project. The price of your windows is determined by:

Material – Window World offers vinyl windows and wood windows in a variety of styles for your project.

Style – Choose from a variety of styles, including single hung, double hung, bay and bow windows, side sliders, and casement windows. Be sure to consider your home’s layout and needs before selecting the style of window you want.

Finish – Finding the perfect finish for your windows is just as important as selecting the material and style. Choose from several different exterior and interior profiles and finish styles.

Installation – Installation fees often influence the cost of replacement windows. While installing the windows yourself might be cheaper, trusting a team of professionals to your project will save you the effort that comes with DIY projects. Our certified master installers will ensure your project gets completed accurately and in a timely manner.

Size of the Project – The larger the project, the higher the cost. If you’re looking to replace at least ten windows, consider splitting the projects into two smaller projects to keep costs lower. Replace only the most urgent windows first, then consider replacing other windows.

If you’re interested in receiving quotes from multiple window companies, keep in mind the price promoted in advertisements may not reflect the total cost of the windows. Companies may offer windows at a lower rate; however, you may ultimately pay for a lower quality window that won’t last as long as a replacement window from Window World.

If you’re looking to replace your windows, skip the showroom and have our window experts come to your home to discuss the best options for your replacement project. Our window experts will offer three different options to help you choose the best windows for your budget. The quote you receive will be valid for 30 days, but there’s no pressure to buy on the spot. For more information about the cost of replacing the windows in your home, schedule an estimate today by simply calling 506-877-0036 or my emailing us at info@windowworld.ca

Tips for Maintaining an Energy Efficient Home

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There are extra costs to owning your own home. When things break down, you have to fix them. When the lawn needs to be mowed, you have to buy the gas for your lawn mower. If you want to enjoy beautiful annual flowers, you’re going to have to fork over the cash to plant them every spring. If you want to stay cozy warm through the winter, you are going to have to pay to heat your home. You don’t have a landlord to pay for any of these things. Is that why you’re here? Are you feeling the bite of that energy bill?

Are you noticing how much of your monthly income is going out the window–quite literally? Here are a few ways your home can cost you money and some ideas for keeping more of that money in your pocket, where it belongs.

WINDOW EFFICIENCY

If you have old, leaky, drafty windows, you might as well keep those windows wide open. All of that expensive heat you are generating inside your home is going right out those windows. However, it doesn’t have to. Replacing old windows with new double or triple pane windows with Low-E coatings is a cost-effective way to upgrade the efficiency of your home.

SEALING LEAKS

There are many ways your home can “leak” precious warm (and cold) air. It is vital to do an inspection of your exterior walls and seal any holes or gaps you find. Make sure you look closely around window and door frames, or places where pipes and electrical wires (or other items) pass through your exterior walls.

If you have forced-air heating or cooling ducts in your home, be sure to make certain that these are properly sealed.

SIDING EFFICIENCY

The siding on your home is like a nice, warm blanket. Like a warm blanket, siding is great for keeping heat in your home. Siding has insulation that works to resist heat transfer. If it is warm inside, the warmth is going to stay longer. If it is hot outside, that heat is going to stay out longer. Upgrading the siding on your home is one of the best ways to lower your energy bills. It is also a great way to give your home a face lift and get excited about it again.

DOOR EFFICIENCY

All doors lose heat, but old sliding glass doors are especially good at it. Not only can heat escape through old weather stripping and seals, it will also be going right through the glass. While you’ll benefit from replacing any of the doors in your home, replacing old sliding glass doors with doors that take advantage of new heat resistant technology is really going to make a difference.

REPLACE OUT-OF-DATE APPLIANCES

Old heating units and air conditioners can cost you an arm and a leg without you ever realizing it. New infrared heaters are far more energy efficient than those old, coiled heaters. There has been quite a bit of enhancement in air conditioner technology. If your air conditioning unit is older than ten years old, it is definitely time to upgrade it.

PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT

Give your home the cool and hot air when it needs it. If you have a programmable thermostat installed in your home, you’re sure to notice a reduction on your energy bills in only a couple of months.

IS IT TIME TO UPGRADE?

While we may not be able to help you with all of the ways you can make your home more energy efficient, we can get you on track with the most advanced door, window, and siding options available. At Window World, we have an incredible selection to help you meet your budget and get the most bang for your buck. We can also make sure these products are installed properly to take advantage of their incredible Energy Star efficiency. Reach out to one of our representatives and let’s set up a free, in-home estimate for you. What do you have to lose–except more money out of the window?