Archives for March 2014

There are many choices to be made when you decide to have a window replacement done, one of the main ones being the material used to construct the window frames. Much is made of the pros and cons of each available option, but if you have settled on a vinyl window replacement, it’s time to start thinking about the type of windows that you would like to have installed. As they occupy such a prominent position on all sides of your home, your windows can have a considerable impact upon how aesthetically pleasing the exterior of your home is perceived to be. As a company that has been in business for over 40 years, we’ve built a reputation that many of our competitors envy through hard work and an unwavering commitment to our clients. Part of the process when having a vinyl window replacement carried out at your property is getting to know each window style and determining which would be the ideal fit.

Which Option Should You Choose for Your Vinyl Window Replacement?

There are simply too many different types of windows to list on a single page, but below we are going to discuss some of the main ones you should consider for your vinyl window replacement. If you go for a walk around Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham or Durham, you are likely to see numerous examples of each of these window styles.

• Casement – You may see casement style windows installed singly, but they are often installed in pairs and feature a hinge on one of the sides. Due to the type of hinge and its placement, casement style windows open very much like a door, swinging either inwards or outwards. They were the window of choice hundreds of years ago (at a time when a vinyl window replacement definitely wouldn’t have been available), before the sash window was invented, but nowadays are relatively undervalued given the number of advantages they offer, which include their ability to form an air-tight deal and an easy-to-use opening and closing mechanism. .
• Awning – Awning windows are very much like casement style windows except the hinge is located on the top of the window rather than on one of the sides. In most cases their width exceeds their height and they open in an outward direction. The main advantage that this type of window provides is that it allows for full side-to-side ventilation as the sash opens fully; something casement windows can’t claim to do. Awning style windows are most commonly selected for basement areas to ensure sufficient light and air is able to enter the space. .
• Single-Hung – If you live in a newer property it most likely has single-hung windows as they are the “default” option for homebuilders nowadays. With this type of window, rather than the window moving outwards or inwards horizontally, it moves up and down vertically. The main advantages of this type of window is that they are generally cheaper to install than most other options (coming in at as much as 20 percent cheaper than double-hung windows), but you do have to put up with restricted ventilation and the fact that the design makes them harder to clean. Just in case you were wondering, it’s nearly always the bottom sash that moves, not the top one. .
• Double-Hung – If you didn’t know what double-hung windows were before you started reading this page, you can probably take a pretty good guess now. That’s right, on a double-hung window both of the sashes can be moved (again, they move upwards and downwards), which not only improves performance in terms of ventilation (double-hung models can often be tilted too, whereas single-hung windows can’t!), but it makes them easier to clean and increases the number of design options available. .
• Bay – This type of window is tailor made for a living room area and really opens up the space, allowing bucket-loads of natural light to flood through into your home. If you’re not sure what they are, bay windows jut out from your exterior walls (so serious modifications to your home may be required if you select this style for your vinyl window replacement) and are made up of either 3 or 5 different sections which connect to form a bay. In addition to making your home lighter, bay windows extend the room and make it feel bigger. .
• Picture – If you’re thinking “how am I going to be able to see through a picture,” don’t worry! Picture windows don’t actually feature a picture; rather they form a frame around the views outside your home. Contrary to all of the other options we have described during this article, you can’t actually open or close picture windows, which is why you often see them installed alongside other types of windows to provide adequate ventilation (rooms without ventilation can feel very “stuffy”). We’ve installed numerous picture windows in homes across Scarborough, Markham, Durham and Richmond Hill, and people often comment how they like the fact that due to there being no part of the window that moves, they are likely to remain trouble-free for much longer periods of time.

Need help deciding on what style of window you would like for your vinyl window replacement? Why not tap into the decades of industry expertise that the staff at Superior Home Improvements has? We are friendly, honest and reliable, and guarantee to exceed your expectations.

Contact us today for vinyl window replacement in Scarborough.

Are you still struggling to make your mind up with regards to the type of window replacement that you are going to select for your home? That’s not actually a bad thing, as it shows that you are taking the decision very seriously. All of your research up to this point may have pushed you towards a vinyl window replacement, since there are a lot of benefits to choosing this option and virtually no drawbacks. If you still feel like you need some additional information about vinyl windows, don’t feel like you are being indecisive; you are going to have to stare at these windows day in, day out for 15 to 20 years after all, so it’s important to get the decision right. Superior Home Improvements serves Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham and Durham, and has been an industry leader for nearly 40 years, working with vinyl windows on hundreds of different jobs. We are going to attempt to share some of our experience with you during this article and provide some more information about vinyl window replacement, which will hopefully help you to come to an informed decision.

Further Information About Vinyl Window Replacement that Could Be Useful

Most websites simply ram the pros and cons of different products down your throat without explaining too much more. That’s all well and good, but sometimes you want to know more.

When Were Vinyl Windows First Created?

Wood was completely dominant in the windows and doors industry before vinyl windows arrived on the scene. They were actually first introduced half-way around in the world in Germany in the mid-fifties and were supposed to solve the wood shortage problem that was being experienced at the time. Aluminum prices were sky high and so vinyl was created as a low cost alternative. Vinyl windows were first introduced to North America in the sixties, but it wasn’t until the seventies and the time of the energy crisis that their popularity really exploded.

What Exactly is a Vinyl Window Replacement?

During the manufacturing process of vinyl windows, ethylene and chlorine are used and combine to form polyvinyl chloride (vinyl is the shortened name). The end result is a tough, synthetic plastic-like material that has a lot of favourable characteristics when used for vinyl windows. A vinyl window replacement may also feature other materials and hardware to make the end product even more robust.

What Styles Can I Choose for My Vinyl Window Replacement?

Vinyl windows offer an unrivalled level of design versatility and can be produced in practically any size and style that you require. Some of the most popular styles that window companies typically install include single-hung windows, double-hung windows, awning style windows, casement style windows, bow style windows and bay style windows.

Are Vinyl Windows Easy to Install?

A vinyl window replacement is generally considered to be “easier” than the installation of other types of windows, but that doesn’t mean it’s something you should ever attempt to do by yourself. A vinyl window replacement needs to be completed to exacting standards otherwise it may result in reduced energy efficiency and comfort levels inside your home.

Will My Home Need to Be Modified to Accommodate My New Vinyl Windows?

Window companies should never need to make modifications to your home’s structure during a vinyl window replacement, since the windows themselves can be made to fit the current opening perfectly.

How Do I look After Vinyl Windows Once They’ve Been Installed?

There’s not a whole lot to do after your vinyl window replacement has been done; that’s one of the main plus points. Vinyl windows are dyed the colour of your choice during the manufacturing process and don’t really fade, so you won’t need to be applying new coats of paint every year. If your windows do get dirty, make sure you use non-abrasive cleaning tools and a mild cleaning solution.

Can Vinyl Windows Cope With Extreme Temperatures?

If you live in Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham or Durham, this is a very relevant question since it can get very cold in winter and equally as hot during the summer months. The good news is that a vinyl widow replacement will cope excellently with this range of conditions and won’t experience a drop in insulating performance like other materials will when damaged by local weather conditions.

How Much will a Vinyl Window Replacement Cost?

There are too many variables involved to provide you with an accurate estimate, since the style of window you select, the size of the windows and the hardware that you have fitted, will all influence the final cost of a vinyl window replacement. However, vinyl windows are certain to cost less than the installation of wooden windows and are available for a similar cost to that of aluminium windows.

Arrange a free consultation about a vinyl window replacement in Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham or Durham.

Are you thinking of investing some money into your home? You might be struggling to decide where to invest it, as there are so many home improvement projects that you can have done nowadays, from bathroom and kitchen renovations to having a new garage door installed to hiring a landscaping expert to sort out your back yard. Each of these projects can improve your quality of life in a different way. Having been one of the leading window companies in the Greater Toronto Area since 1973, completing hundreds of installations and repair jobs in Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham and Durham, we often get asked about the merits of a window replacement by homeowners. “Is it really worth the investment” many people ask us. We always reply with a resounding YES! During this article we are going to explain why.

The Main Reasons to Consider Window Replacement for Your Property

Windows perform a multitude of different functions in your home. They allow natural light to flood into your property during the daytime, provide a clear view of your outdoor area, maintain a pleasant temperature indoors by trapping heat energy and shielding you from the elements, and they also stop outdoor noise from making its way inside your property. If the important roles that windows fulfil aren’t enough to persuade you to invest in a window replacement, here are a few more reasons:

• Home’s Value Takes a Jump – The best home improvement projects improve the functionality of your home while at the same time retaining a high percentage of the investment you made. In terms of a window replacement, in Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value” report it was stated that a vinyl window replacement retains 78.7 percent of the value of the investment made, which is higher than a bathroom remodel, kitchen remodel and a roofing replacement. So should you decide to sell up and move in the future, the market value of your property would likely be considerably higher as a result of the window replacement.
• Save $$$ on Energy Bills – It’s fairly well documented that a window replacement can cut your annual energy consumption by as much as 25% (or more depending on local weather conditions), saving you considerable amounts of money in the process. This figure would be even higher if you currently have single glazing and have double or triple glazing installed. Are you wondering how windows are able to save you electricity? Older, less efficient windows allow heat energy to escape from your home in a number of ways, with convection and conduction being the main ones, forcing your heating and cooling systems to work harder and consequently consume more energy.
• Improve Comfort Levels – You don’t want to be constantly wrapped up inside your home as well as outside your home during the cold winter weather that we get in and around Toronto every year. Another benefit that many homeowners have commented on after we’ve completed a window replacement at their property, is the improvement in comfort levels inside their home. A new window replacement will improve the insulation of your property (as we just mentioned), which results in better heat retention and warmer rooms.
• Better Home Security – Older windows are a serious security risk as they can be broken into relatively easily, providing an intruder with easy access to all your worldly possessions. This is because the windows installed several decades ago didn’t have to meet the same strict requirements that today’s windows do. Not only are the frames and locking mechanisms much improved, but there is a vast array of glazing options available nowadays that are much harder to break.
• Improve Usability – Another common complaint we hear from owners of properties that have ancient windows, is that they are extremely difficult to open and close. You shouldn’t have to strain yourself to open or close a window; if you do have to there’s something seriously wrong. A new window replacement will fix all that and can be installed in a variety of different styles to suit your own preferences. Whether you prefer sliding windows or swinging windows, there’s a window replacement for everyone.
• Enhance Aesthetics – Windows are an important part of your home’s exterior, and old windows can definitely negatively affect its appearance. A new window replacement however can change all that, and providing the correct colour and finish is selected, can help to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property.

The list of benefits that a window replacement will bring to your home could go on and on, but we’ve already pointed out many of the main advantages. With a single improvement you can positively influence your property in several different ways. If you would like to set up a free on-site consultation with a member of our team, or you simply require further information about the products that we offer,

Contact us today for your Scarborough Window Replacement questions.

When contacting window companies, just as with other types of skilled trades, there are certain signs to look for that indicate quality. A window replacement doesn’t exactly come cheap and consequently you need to collaborate with a provider that you know isn’t going to produce a poor standard of work or bail on you at the earliest opportunity. While the implications of a “cut-and-run” effort are blindingly obvious, it’s the consequences of a poorly done job that you really need to consider (which is the more likely scenario out of the two). If windows aren’t installed absolutely perfectly, the energy efficiency of your home can plummet, causing significant increases in heating and cooling bills, and your home will be more vulnerable to break-ins too. Don’t take a chance on an unproven firm; know exactly what to look for when contacting window companies and don’t accept anything less.

Not All Window Companies are Equal: Tips to Help You Find the Ones that Excel in Their Field

If you’ve been a homeowner for a number of years, you’ve likely had to call upon the services of numerous skilled tradesmen during that time, so some of the tips shown below may already be known to you, but for first-time homeowners, this advice could prove invaluable.

Look for Windows Companies that Demonstrate Real Knowledge

We would strongly advise you to do as much research as you can before you start contacting windows companies, as if you don’t have any real knowledge of the product that you are interested in or what’s involved in the installation process, anyone will likely be able to dupe you with some slick sales spiel. Spend some time on the internet researching different framing materials, different glazing options and the different types of window styles etc. Entering the conversation with some background knowledge can allow you to really test window companies and provide them with the opportunity to demonstrate their industry expertise. Ask lots of questions and see how they respond. If they are overly evasive, hang up and move on.

Thorough Planning For Your Window Replacement

As we’ve already hinted at, the installation of new windows is a delicate process and needs to be done to strict specifications, meaning thorough planning is absolutely vital if the project is to be a success. Window companies should always insist on an on-site inspection if they are serious about their work, and if they try and get you to commit to the project before they’ve done this, it’s not a good sign. During this inspection they will firstly assess the condition of your existing frames, just to check that you genuinely do require a window replacement (not much point in paying out if a minor repair will do, is there?!), before going on to discuss the various options available to you and making a recommendation based on the design of your home, local weather conditions and your budget, among other things.

Good Customer Service Skills from the First Moment

There’s one thing you need to remember when contacting window companies: You are the customer, and you are the one that’s paying. That automatically means you command the company’s respect and they should do their best to make you feel at ease and accommodate you to the best of their abilities. This means arranging appointments around your schedule, not theirs. They should also be committed, and shouldn’t be trying to juggle other projects on the same day as your installation; you want to know that you have their undivided attention. You can usually tell from the first couple of conversations whether a window company is going to be a good fit.

Large Upfront Payments are a Big No-No

Some smaller window companies may ask you to make a minimal down payment to “lock you in” and ensure that they have their own backs covered when they buy all required materials upfront using their own funds, but generally speaking you shouldn’t have to pay anything upfront when working with window companies. If you are asked to either make payment in full or pay a hefty chunk of the total fee before any work has been done, take our advice and walk away. This is definitely not the norm!

Insurance is a Must and Professional Memberships are Desirable

There’s probably hundreds of homeowners that have been burned by uninsured window companies in the areas we serve (Scarborough, Durham, Markham and Richmond Hill) and it’s something that you have to be very careful about. If a contractor doesn’t have general liability insurance, should they damage other parts of your property when installing your new windows, they may not cover the subsequent repair costs; you’ll be left to take care of that as well as the cost of your window replacement. You should also look out for window companies that are members of the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) and the Siding and Window Dealers Association of Canada, as this demonstrates that they are both involved in industry developments and committed to the work that they carry out, and it is also a good indication that they take their obligations to meet minimum quality standards seriously.
If you would like further guidance on how to spot window companies that are strong candidates for the work you need doing, or if you would like to set-up a free consultation with industry experts that meet all of the criteria above and more,

For the best Window Company in Call 416-287-0333 Today.