Superior Windows in Scarborough, Markham, Durham & Richmond Hill

5 Best Tools for Fixing Leaking Windows

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window-replacement-costLeaking windows not only lets air and heating escape your home but can also cost you comfort and cash. Over the long-term, homeowners might need to invest in window replacement cost. There are also some very basic steps you can take to minimize leaking windows in your home.

Window Inspection

Even if you don’t want to worry about window replacement cost of broken windows, you still will benefit from an inspection. Check your windows for drafts, rot, faulty hardware, and warping or cracked glass. Invest in new windows with irreparable and older windows. If you cannot open a window because it is too warped or the frame seems rotten, a full replacement will be needed.

Window Caulking

Older windows have drafts. Apply caulk around window trim and between the trip and the frame. Choose something nontoxic. Latex is a good option. Clean the window first and remove any old trim. Caulk the gaps.

Weather-stripping

Block drafts and create a tighter seal with weather-stripping. Most weather-stripping is made of foam and is easy to install. Most hardware stores carry weather-stripping.

Window Coverings

Besides adding caulk and replacing older windows, you can minimize drafts by installing quality curtains. There are a variety of curtains and shades available today. You can minimize sunlight and control how much heat or cold comes in through your windows. Layered curtains minimize drafts overall. Cellular shades are another great option.

Storm Windows

For homes in extreme weather conditions prone to high winds, snowstorms, and heavy precipitating, storm window will provide extra protection and comfort. Additionally, they will reduce air leaks and save energy over time.

Follow these simple steps to minimize unwanted drafts from your windows. Speak with our professionals today about inspection your windows.

What are the Benefits of Replacing Your Old Windows?

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whole-house-window-replacementIncrease energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal of your home by replacing your old windows. Whole house window replacement can increase overall curb appeal, maintain your home’s temperature and lighting more efficiently, and increase resale value. There are numerous benefits to replacing old broken windows.

Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest benefits to replacing your old windows is a noticeable drop in energy costs. Whole house window replacement with energy star products will winterize your home and increase the overall curb appeal of your residence. Reduce heating costs and decrease unwanted drafts in the winter. Believe it or not, over seventy percent of your home heat loss is due to older single pane windows.

Newer windows have multiple panes, durable framing, and also reduce noise pollution. Easier to maintain, they can handle the extreme weather conditions outside. They reduce demands on cooling and heating systems incredibly, by up to twenty-five percent. Enjoy a comfortable, beautiful home.

Insulation

Many older windows have little or no insulation. This can be due to cracks in the framing, poor weather stripping, and single pane design. Newer windows provide excellent insulation for your family. Low-e coating (low thermal emissivity) reflects solar waves. They also provide additional UV protection, helping your walls, fabric, artwork, and furniture last longer without sun damage.

Lower Insurance Costs

Did you know that you can potentially lower your overall home insurance costs with new windows? Ask your window replacement specialist today about adding windows with multiple locks and added security.

Your home is your castle. Enjoy the comforts of home with new windows. Consider improving your quality of life for decades to come.

How to Protect Your Home in a Storm

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Through winter and summer, our homes protect our families. What are just some of the ways to protect our homes? Custom storm doors, storm windows, and durable roofing are just a few of the ways we can keep our homes safe through hurricanes, blizzards, strong winds, and more. Learn how to be prepared for any type of weather.

Doors and Windows

custom-storm-doorsOne of the best ways to protect your home is to ensure proper sealing of doors and windows. This includes replacing any aged doors with strong modern custom storm doors. Remember that small cracks in your windows and doors can lead to broken windows and dangerous winds entering your home, ultimately compromising the very structure of your roof.

Additionally, remember to seal all windows and doors. Many times repairs can be done easily. If not, you can hire a professional contractor to replace broken or loose panes, seal doors, and repair compromised windows and doors. Contact our professionals for an assessment of your home’s doors and windows before the next weather event.

Trim the Trees

This may seem obvious but check for broken branches and loose limbs. Tree trimming before hurricanes and snowstorms hits will ensure additional protection for you and your neighbors. Especially look out for trees that might have compromised structures, are dead from rot, or are in precarious locations like close to your home or near your car.

Roofing

Many homeowners neglect their roof. They save repairing old shingles until it is too late. Don’t wait on roof repair. An old roof can quickly become an expensive problem during a storm. Water and wind damage can lead to irreparable costly damage and even personal loss.

 

Keep your family safe during the next storm. Call a professional about installing quality doors and windows. By following a few simple tips you can enjoy your home for generations to come.

 

 

 

What is the Lifespan of a Window?

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windows-and-doorsWhether you have purchased an older home with worn windows or have contemporary windows, it is important to know what the lifespan of your window will be and how you can help lengthen that amount of time. Why? Windows and doors can wear over time. Many factors like moisture, age, misuse, extreme temperatures, and poor installation can all affect the lifespan of your windows.

Professional Installation

What is one of the prime ways to ensure that your window will last for decades? Choose professional installation for your windows and doors. A qualified contractor that has a good reputation and long track record of success will do the most to ensure that your windows will last for a long, long time. Why?

Poor installation will lead to problems with the actual hardware of your windows. Your home and window may be prone to moisture and weather just because of poor installation. A quality installer takes all of these factors into consideration. Additionally, because they are professionals, they can offer you key advice on what types of windows are best for your home and ways that you can help maintain the windows in the long term.  Talk with them about their warranty.

Window Types

The lifespan of a window depends on a few factors, like the quality of the product, the type of window, and whether it was professionally installed. Aluminum windows last around fifteen to twenty years. Vinyl windows can last anywhere from twenty to forty years. Wood windows last more than thirty years on average with good maintenance. Many homeowners purchasing older homes may need to replace older wood windows with modern vinyl windows. You should replace or repair a window if there are leaks or visible condensation, the window doesn’t open or close properly, or there is warping in the frame or hardware. If you are not sure if you need to replace your window, call a professional contractor today.

How Do You Keep Your Windows Warm in the Winter?

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vinyl-replacement-windowsWhen the cold winter comes, finding ways to further insulate your home is key to saving on electricity and keeping your family comfortable. From replacing older windows with vinyl replacement windows to various ways to insulate your home, find out how you can keep your house warm this winter.

Replace Drafty Windows

If you have an older home, you might have drafty windows and doorways. Replace older windows with energy-efficient vinyl replacement windows, especially if the windows are decades old, let in a significant draft, or are difficult to open. Not only do new windows make your home more energy efficient, but they also increase your home’s overall curb appeal and add extra safety. Speak with a professional contractor today about how to replace old windows and doors with new efficient models.

Curtains and Window Coverings

Another way to increase the warmth in your home is to use heavy thick curtains. They help your home retain heat, control how much light goes in and out of your home, and are attractive. Choose thick fabrics that seal in the warmth and minimize leakage.

Use Sunlight

Believe it or not, just letting in the sunlight will help warm up your home. Many older homes that were built before electricity became common have the advantage of letting in enormous amounts of sunlight. As long as you have newer windows, you can enjoy the cheerful warmth of sunlight every day. Close your heavy curtains once the sun goes down to keep the heat inside and the cold outside.

There are many other things that you can do to make your house warmer this year. Carpets are an attractive way to increase the warmth and insulation in your home affordably and attractively. Try to cover any bare flooring with a warm carpet. They help reduce heat loss overall. Keep your home warm this winter with these easy professional tips.

Does Replacing Windows Save Energy?

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new-home-windowsHomeowners can increase energy efficiency and save money by replacing their windows. Why? New home windows can prevent unwanted drafts, provide extra insulation, and reduce heating costs. What are some of the ways that windows can increase the value of your home?

Saving Energy

Vinyl windows are a durable option that will save energy because of minimal leaks and increased durability unlike traditional wood, aluminum, or even fiberglass. Energy Star rated new home windows have been certified to increase energy efficiency and lower energy costs. There can be hundreds of dollars of real savings when single pane windows are replaced with Energy Star windows. Even simply repairing older windows to make them more energy efficient can save some money, although replacing with Energy Star products is a much better option for the long-term.

Window Insulation

Besides replacing leaky and drafty windows, adding extra window insulation is another way to reducing leaks and save on costs. Inspect your home for any drafts from windows, doors, cracks, or heating and cooling ducts. However, if you find that there is excess moisture entering your home, window replacement is necessary for your health and safety. Mold growth is a dangerous reality that can cost home value and health. Caulk and plug additional leaks. Storm windows provide additional protection.

New Technology

Many homeowners purchase older homes with traditional wood frames and drafty windows. Gradually replace worn windows with newer energy efficient windows. You will have better insulation and a design that will save money and reduce energy expenses. Airflow is eliminated with newer window models. Unless the windows are open, air should not pass through your window. Homes with low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) windows keep homes cooler in warm weather. Those in cold weather should look for an SHGC over 0.35.

Replace older drafty windows with new energy efficient vinyl windows to save money on energy costs and keep your home insulated and safe.

Find the Right Window Coverings

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blinds-for-housesWhat type of window coverings are perfect for your home? Are you looking to make your home a little cozier? Maybe too much sunlight is coming into the kid’s bedroom or you want to make your entertainment room pitch dark for movie night. Whether finding the right blinds for houses, the most stylish curtains or adding shades, choosing the right type of window coverings for your home can be a daunting task.

Blinds

Blinds offer unique versatility. They come in a variety of finishes, materials, and styles. Choose from leather, vinyl, wood, or aluminum. These blinds for houses come in any style for any type of home décor. Have a nautical theme? Choose beautiful navy blue blinds. Maybe your beach style home needs some beautiful wooden blinds to match the furniture. Brightly colored blinds in your child’s room can bring in joy and sunshine literally.

Choosing Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes provide two essential functions in the home: they provide style and control lighting and temperature. Homeowners in extreme climates can use curtains and drapes to keep the heat in during cold winters and the heat out during hot summers. Want to let the light shine in? Then choose white or light-colored coverings. They allow sunlight to pass in the room but keep out some of the heat. Choose dark colors to keep out sunlight and maintain a dark and cozy atmosphere in the bedroom. Special fabrics will keep your home warmer during harsh winters. Speak with a design professional about the incredible options available for your home.

Shades and Shutters

Add unique style to your windows with the addition of shades or shutters. These block out the light and add special privacy to your home. Solar shades reduce the harmful UV rays coming through the windows. Many shades are easy to clean, unlike blinds or curtains. Cellular shades bring extra efficiency to your home with their unique design.

Speak with a design professional about the best window coverings for your home. Whether you choose blinds or shutters, shades or curtains, you are guaranteed to find the most stylish covering to fit your personal style.

 

6 Home Storage Tips Every Mom Needs to Know

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walk-in-closetsCraving space in your busy family home? Whether your home is full of young preschoolers and toddlers, busy teens, or grown children getting ready for college, every mom needs to find the best home storage solutions. Walk in closets, double duty furniture, and built-in storage, are just a few tips to help you expand your space and minimize clutter. Read on for our professional storage tips, perfect for every mom!

Customized Storage

It doesn’t matter if you are planning on moving to a new house, own a condo, or are trying to make the most of a home that you have lived in for decades. Creating customized walk in closets is one of the best ways to fully organize your home. You can design the closet to fit almost any space, creating easy convenience for shoes and socks, clothing, toys, and accessories.

Enjoy shelving that meets your needs, light fixtures, and mirrors that really open a space up, and hidden drawers for storing valuables. Space is more than storage. Use it as a dressing room or vanity, or even as a place to store valuables and your safe.

Spacious Windows

Tired of your home looking cramped and dark? One way to help open up your space is with new windows. Opt for beautiful spacious windows, especially if you have a beautiful vista outside. Even if you live in an urban environment, adding windows will bring in the light. This makes more of your home functional, not to mention a little bit cheerier. Contact a window replacement specialist about how you can use lighting and new windows to help brighten your home.

Double Duty Furniture

Urban dwellers already know the value of double-duty furniture – pieces that often have hidden storage and are multifunctional. For example, coffee tables that can store books and toys, ottomans that open up to hide photo albums or built-in drawers in your bed frame.

Built-In Storage

If you are looking for a home, look for homes that have built-in bookshelves in the walls. Popular in older homes, these walls are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. If you don’t have a home with built-in bookshelves, you can add standalone units instead of display and storage. Speak with a professional about finding places to hide modular storage units in your home.

The Kitchen

Let’s not forget the importance of hidden storage in your kitchen. Add pull-out shelving, shelf inserts, and extra hooks to hang small pots and pans. Be creative with your space, and use wood accordion walls to hang potholders and small kitchen items.

Make the Most of Your Space

Most of us have a room, attic, closet, or basement that is underused. Maybe you need to clear out the basement of bins of old clothes and toys that your children have outgrown. Or maybe there is a closet in the living room that would serve better for storing your photography equipment instead of rarely worn sweaters. Be creative and scour your place for space like you are looking for hidden treasure. You may be surprised at what you find!

How to Buy New Windows on a Tight Budget

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new-windowsMany homeowners on a tight budget wonder whether or not they should purchase new windows. Are they worth the cost? What are the benefits of replacing windows? And how can you save money when purchasing them?

A Long-term Investment

Unlike some renovations like installing a pool or repainting the garage, installing new windows actually adds significant value to your home. There are additional benefits like providing more energy efficiency and increase the overall curb appeal of the home. Most homeowners will recoup the overall window installation costs. Window installation can be considered an investment in your home.

A Good Value

The overall cost of the windows really depends on the type that you decide to purchase. Double-hung windows, single-hung windows, and casement windows are all affordable options. Additionally, a fixed window (which does not have moving panels) cost less than operable windows. You can have a combination of fixed and operable windows to maximize ventilation and minimize cost.

Large vs. Small Windows

Surprisingly enough, purchasing multiple smaller windows does not always save more money than buying a few larger windows. Why? Well, a smaller window sometimes requires just as much manufacturing and materials as a large window, and sometimes more! Price the cost of purchasing large luxurious windows against the cost of smaller windows. You may be surprised at how much money you will save!

Extra Features

While extra features like laminate exterior glass and company-supplied hardware may not be necessary when replacing windows. These add-ons can add to the overall cost. Does that mean that you don’t need any extras? No, just make sure that you are adding on features that will add to the overall value and comfort that new windows bring. Stay with something simple, like simple double-hung windows, sliders, and casement windows. Avoid accents like hexagons and bays that can cost you heavily.

Negotiation

And finally, the easiest way to cut back on cost is to have an honest conversation about price with your contractor. Even authorized window dealers may negotiate the price to keep a customer. Discuss ways to enjoy high value for an affordable budget-friendly rate.

Why Vinylbilt Windows are Ideal for Your Home

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vinylbilt-windowsSearching for high-quality windows that will provide style and functionality for your home? Look no further than elegant Vinylbilt Windows. These versatile windows provide almost limitless design options to enhance the overall look of your home. What are some of the key reasons that these are ideal for your residence?

Functionality and Beauty

Every homeowner wants to choose features that bring up the curbside appeal of a home while also increasing its functionality. Low maintenance may also be a requirement. Vinylbilt Windows option a wide range of designs that accommodate every home. Options include everything from the single hung vinyl window which opens up and down to exquisite custom made bay windows.

Vinyl slider designs have an easy-to-open gliding function that is often easier than traditional lifting or cranking. Awning and greenhouse windows are ideal for space-saving outdoor patios and spaces. Some windows have shelving options or can be combined with door systems for better functionality. Speak with your design professional about the window options that are ideal for your home.

A Style for Every Home

Choosing the right Vinylbilt Window for your home is easy. With an expansive range of custom and factory options, you can find the type of window that is right for your residence. For a stylish elegant look, install camber casement windows. Their unique curves are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Custom options are available for every customer. This can include specialized custom shapes for a distinct geometric look or beautiful accent windows. Beautiful feature windows are ideal for patios.

Practical homeowners can choose from a variety of low maintenance windows like the double hung window or awning. Fixed options let in light when ventilation is not a requirement. Some homeowners love the distinct look that a bay window gives to a home. Other options include bow windows, which protrude from the home. Enjoy a unique style for both the interior and exterior.

Customize to Perfection

These high-performance windows can be customized to fit your home’s needs and tastes. A wide variety of geometric and functional design options are available. Versatility is key. Whether you are looking for maximizing curb appeal, creating a more energy-efficient home, or increasing the practical functionality of your residence, you will find that Vinylbilt can provide the product that you need.

Contact your Vinylbilt authorized dealer in your area. Enjoy innovation, efficiency, and excellence with your next window installation.