Five benefits of a winter installation include:

1. Better protection from the elements.

Replacing windows and doors in the winter helps protect against harsh weather conditions. Winter storms often bring strong winds, snow, freezing temps, and other debris that can damage old or worn-out windows or your home. Modern models are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions, so they’ll last longer and keep you safer.

2. Improved energy efficiency.

One of the main reasons to replace windows and doors in the winter is improved energy efficiency. If your windows are older or damaged, they may release heat from inside your home, leading to higher utility bills. Newer, more energy-efficient windows will help keep warm air in and cold air out, saving you money.

3. Reduced condensation and other moisture issues.

Another benefit is a reduction in condensation and other moisture issues. During cold weather, humidity levels drop, making installing new windows or doors easier without worrying about moisture build-up inside your home. This also helps prevent mold and mildew growth.

4. Greater scheduling availability.

Since installations can slow down during this season, you’ll have a better chance of scheduling your window or door replacement at the perfect time for you.

5. We’ve mastered winter installations.

With two Certified Master Installers working on the outside and inside of each window, our average installation time is about 5 minutes per window. Our installers work quickly and efficiently—never exposing your home to the harsh elements of winter. We seal off the room we’re working in so you don’t have to worry about heat escaping or the cold affecting your home and the people, pets, and plants inside it. Our process is fast, clean, and safe. Most projects are completed in as little as one day—giving you immediate satisfaction with beautiful new windows that improve the comfort of your home!

Our winter installation system makes it quick and easy. Here’s how it works:

• Our Certified Master Installers seal off the room they’re working in, using zip walls to enclose the area. This keeps pets, plants, and people comfortable in the rest of the home. Zip walls also prevent heat loss and ensure your home will have minimal exposure to the elements.
• We cover and protect floors and furnishings from foot traffic, construction debris, and the harsh winter elements.
• Two installers work on your home’s outside and inside simultaneously.
• The installers work on one window at a time, with each window being installed on average in as little as five minutes.
• Each window is custom-manufactured to 1/8” of the opening so that installers can add additional insulation around the framework once in place, helping maximize energy efficiency.

Take a look at this short video to meet a Renewal by Andersen Certified Master Installer:

We are dedicated to providing outstanding service to our customers. You don’t have to suffer with cold, drafty, and inefficient windows for another winter! Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We offer window and door replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, and the Okanagan.

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When you see moisture on your windows, it isn’t necessarily a sign that something is wrong. While interior condensation can sometimes result from a failing windowpane seal, most often, it’s simply a result of humidity in the air. The water you see is condensation from the warm air meeting the cooler glass, like when a cold beverage sweats on a hot summer day.

In fact, condensation may be more noticeable on high-quality windows since they are so energy efficient, indicating that your windows have good tight seals. The things that make homes more energy efficient—weather stripping, high-quality insulation, vapor barriers, and windows and patio doors that reduce air leakage—also lock moisture inside your house.

Moisture is a part of everyday life. Anytime someone takes a shower or cooks, it increases indoor humidity. In British Columbia, where the fall and winters are especially wet and cold, it’s important to keep indoor humidity only as high as you need it. When you see interior window condensation, it’s a sign to lower the humidity.

A few quick and easy ways to do this include:

1. Opening the blinds and drapes to let moisture-laden air escape.
2. Raising the air temperature in your home (turning the heat on will decrease relative humidity).
3. Turning on ceiling fans to improve air circulation.
4. Running exhaust fans in the kitchen while cooking and in the bathroom while showering or bathing. Leave the fan running for 15 minutes after you’ve finished to clear out lingering moisture.

It’s essential to manage humidity inside your home for its overall health, not just to manage condensation. Excess interior moisture can lead to swelling wood, mold or mildew, musty odours, discoloration, and cracking or blistering paint. Remember that wiping condensation off windows, especially wood or vinyl, is essential. Prolonged condensation can lead to mold, rot, or leaky seals. Use a towel, paper towel, microfiber cloth, or squeegee to wipe away excess moisture.

Want to know more? Take a look at this short video on understanding condensation.

Are you considering upgrading some of your older windows with new, energy-efficient ones? Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We offer window and door replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, and the Okanagan.

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1. Durability

One of the most standout attributes of Fibrex is its remarkable durability. This unique composite material is twice as strong as vinyl, meaning your windows can withstand harsh weather and the test of time. All of our replacement windows are equipped with Fibrex frames, so no matter your choice, you’re investing in products that will serve you well for years to come.

2. Energy Efficiency

Who doesn’t love the sound of lower utility bills? Thanks to the first-rate insulation provided by Fibrex, you will see a noticeable decrease in energy costs. This material’s excellent thermal insulation means your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer without overworking your heating and cooling systems.

3. Aesthetics

Fibrex isn’t just about functionality; it’s also about style. Available in a range of colours and designs, Fibrex windows can complement any home aesthetic, from modern and minimal to classic and traditional. Whether you’re renovating living spaces or working on a new construction project, Fibrex windows will add charm to your home.

4. Low Maintenance

Replacement windows equipped with Fibrex also require minimal maintenance. Unlike wood that needs repainting or metal that can rust, this alternative framing material remains strong and beautiful throughout the seasons, without requiring too much of your time and effort for maintenance. 

5. Environmentally Friendly

In this day and age, making environmentally conscious choices is more important than ever. You’ll be glad to know that Fibrex is made from a blend of reclaimed wood and thermoplastic polymer. Not only that, but you can also rest easily knowing that these windows are long-lasting, therefore reducing waste.

Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We offer window and door replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, and the Okanagan. 

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Our installers are best-in-class and have perfected the winter installation process. With our method, we work quickly and efficiently—never exposing your home to the harsh elements of winter. Most projects are completed in as little as one day—giving you immediate satisfaction with beautiful new windows and doors that improve the comfort of your home!

Here’s how it works:

• Our installers seal off the room they’re working in. We use zip walls that enclose the area to keep pets, plants, and people comfortable in the rest of the home.
• Zip walls prevent heat loss and ensure your home will have minimal exposure to the elements.
• We cover and protect floors and furnishings from foot traffic, construction debris, and the harsh winter elements.
• Two installers work on both the outside and inside of your home simultaneously.
• The installers work on one window at a time, with each window being installed on average in as little as five minutes.
• Each window is custom-manufactured to 1/8” of the opening so that installers can add additional insulation around the framework once they’re in place, helping to maximize energy efficiency.

To learn more about the benefits of a winter installation, take a look at our blog post: Why You Should Replace Windows in Winter.

Our winter installation system makes it quick and easy. You don’t have to suffer with cold, drafty, and inefficient windows for another winter. Our new windows can save you money and make you feel more comfortable in your home now! When you’re ready to take the first step, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

The post How Does a Winter Window and Door Installation Work? appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

• Improved Energy-Efficiency

One of the main reasons to replace windows and doors in the winter is improved energy-efficiency. If your windows are older or damaged, they may release heat from inside your home, leading to higher hydro bills. Replacing old windows with newer, more energy-efficient ones will help keep warm air in and cold air out, saving you money.

• Reduced Condensation and Other Moisture Issues

Another benefit of replacing windows and doors in the winter is that this can help reduce condensation and other moisture issues inside your home. Drafty or leaky windows can cause mold, mildew, and greater structural problems if left unchecked.

• Better Protection From the Elements

In addition to improved energy-efficiency and reduced moisture issues, replacing your windows and doors in the winter can also help protect against harsh weather conditions. Winter storms often bring strong winds, rain, snow, and other debris that can cause real damage to old or worn-out windows. Modern models are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions, so they’ll last longer and keep you safe.

• Greater Scheduling Availability

Since most construction slows down during this season, you’ll have a better chance of scheduling your window or door replacement for exactly when you want it.

Winter is the perfect time if you’re thinking about replacing your windows or doors. You’ll enjoy improved energy efficiency, reduced moisture issues, and better protection from the elements. If it’s finally time to replace your windows or doors, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

The post Why You Should Replace Windows In Winter appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

Cold Climate Doors

There are many options when it comes to choosing doors. When considering doors for a cold climate, however, you need to narrow it down to those with great weather sealing and even better insulating properties.

Steel and fiberglass will resist the destructive nature of severe cold and are an ideal building material for the bulk of the door. A thermal efficient insulating material should also be used to fill out the interior of the door.

A great example of this is ProVia doors. They have steel or fiberglass frames packed with excellent insulating material. Their weather seals are the best on the market—they won’t peel or crack after a couple of cold snaps like many other weather seals do. They come in a wide range of styles and colours and can even feature large glass sections without compromising insulation or quality.

On top of their cold weather application, these doors are an excellent, sturdy, and secure option to keep your family safe at home.

Cold Climate Windows

Regular windows are typically made out of a single sheet of glass with either wood or vinyl for a frame. When it comes to cold climates like you encounter in B.C., these are not the best option.

Firstly, single-pane windows are very poor insulators. They let out a lot of heat in the winter and let in a lot of heat in the summer. This drives hydro bills sky high as you try to combat the forces of nature outside.

Instead, you should go for double-pane windows. These use two sheets of glass with a layer of gas between them. This layer of air traps cold air in winter and hot air in summer, preventing your home from freezing or overheating.

Secondly, the glass and its coating is also important. Uncoated glass lets in full light, full heat, and full UV radiation. Special coating like Low-E4 SunSmart glass adds additional insulating properties to the glass. This is particularly important in the winter; double-pane SunSmart glass can cut electricity bills by up to 25%.

And lastly, the frames. Vinyl is cheap and easy to clean, but will crack and deteriorate when exposed to extreme weather. Wood is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, but also does poorly over time in cold environments. Your best option is a material like our exclusive Fibrex; it combines the ease of vinyl with the strength of wood. Even better, it insulates 700x better than aluminum!

Did you know that our windows are also ENERGY-STAR® certified? If it’s time to replace your windows or doors, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you get the best cold climate windows and doors for these chilly winter months. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

The post Cold Climate Windows & Doors for British Columbia appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

1. Choose Your Materials Wisely, Especially in B.C.

The most common choices for a window are either wood or vinyl. So, it might come as a surprise that the best material option for a frame is actually neither. Vinyl might be great because it’s low maintenance, but it’s also prone to cracks that result in the whole window needing to be replaced. And while wood is a long-time favourite, modern wooden frames degrade quickly, particularly in harsher, wetter environments like the Pacific Northwest.

This is why Renewal by Andersen created Fibrex. Fibrex presents all of the sturdiness of a wooden frame, with the low-maintenance upkeep of a vinyl frame. It won’t chip or crack, and it won’t degrade any time soon. Fibrex is forever, almost!

Fibrex also allows for narrower frames, giving you more glass, wider views, and more light. It can even be given the appearance of a painted wooden finish to maintain that rustic woodwork feel.

2. Aesthetics are Key

Homeowners get about 73% of their replacement window investment back when they resell the house, according to a National Association of Realtors’ Cost Versus Value study. Choose the wrong windows, though, and replacements can detract from home value.

“Like custom kitchens and original wood flooring, windows are important architectural features,” says North Vancouver realtor Amy Mackey-Hornack. “Replace them with a cheaper product, and you downscale the house.”

In addition, cheaper windows at big box stores don’t have the colour options that allow you to match your trim. This is where a quality Fibrex option really shines; you get the low maintenance of vinyl without sacrificing aesthetics with a plain matte finish.

3. Hire Licensed and Insured Professionals who Only do Windows

This should never need to be said when it comes to any sort of home improvement, but the truth is it usually does: always go for a licensed and insured professional who specializes in the task at hand. Always.

A poor installation will cost you far, far more than the money you save on a cheap job. You might create a hole in your vapour barrier, ending up with gaps around your windows that allow in insects in summer and rack up your heating bills in winter. It will cost you more upfront, but the time, money, and hassle you save in the long term more than make up for it.

This ⁠plays back into the point above—a poorly installed window will absolutely affect the value of your property. Nobody’s going to want to pay a premium price for a place that has poorly installed windows.

4. Know What the Manufacturer’s Warranty is

Winters in B.C. can be harsh. It’s why you need quality materials, why you need a professional whose focus is windows, and why you need to ensure you’re getting at least a two-year installation warranty.

Most big box stores simply don’t offer a warranty on installation. Those that do may only do so for a few months.

• Go with a specialist window replacement company. They’re more likely to have the extended warranties you require to get the most out of your purchase.
• Go for a company that’s been around for a long time with a strong reputation. You want to make sure that the company is actually going to be around for the time it takes to honour the warranty itself.

Your windows are going to be exposed to some harsh weather conditions and they need to stand the test of time. Don’t risk it.

5. Don’t Choose a Window Based Solely on Price

This point has already been made, but here we’ll stress it again: don’t skimp on the cost.

Having a budget is obviously going to keep your options targeted, but always keep in mind that you’ll get what you pay for. If you go for the cheapest option to start with, be prepared to fix it again in the foreseeable future. Generally, you should only need to replace windows once or twice in your lifetime. It shouldn’t come up that often. Spending a bit more on it today will help ensure that it’s only once in a lifetime, not two, or three, or four.

Do your research to find out why some features and glass options cost more than others. Weigh the long-term benefits against the short-term investment. When in doubt, focus on the long-term value over the cost. If it’s time to replace your windows or doors, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

The post What to Know Before Replacing Windows in British Columbia appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

1. Combine window treatments

For protection against the elements, combine blinds, sheer curtains, and heavy drapes. Keep everything closed when it’s cold outside. If it’s cold but not frigid and the room gets sunlight, raise the blinds, open the drapes, and let some sunlight into the room to warm it up.

2. Use window snakes

Window snakes are long tubes filled with sand or water-absorbing material that are placed at the bottom of windows to block drafts and/or absorb condensation. You can also use a rolled up towel or blanket instead. Change these often if they become wet after absorbing moisture.

3. Cover windows with plastic

Window insulation kits, which seal the window with a plastic film, are available at your local hardware store or online. These kits include plastic sheeting that you affix to the jambs with double-sided tape. Once in place, heat the plastic with a hairdryer. The shrinking action will make it look like another glass pane.

4. Fill in any gaps around windows

If you have spaces in your window frames that you can fit your finger into, fill them with a gap filler. A popular choice is foam rope that comes on a roll and in various sizes to fill both small and large gaps. Press it into the spaces and trim off the excess with scissors.

5. Reglaze loose window panes

If your windows are old and wooden, check to see if any of the glazing is missing or loose. If so, reapply glazing in these areas to create a better seal around the glass. Just be sure to do this before the temperature dips below 10 degrees Celsius, as the putty won’t cure properly when cold.

6. Lock windows and apply weatherstripping

Last but not least, one of the most vital steps when winterizing your home is to lock the windows. Window locks pull the sashes together, closing up the space that cold air leaks through. Most of a window’s heat loss occurs through gaps between the sashes and the frame. You can reduce drafts by weather-stripping where two surfaces push together (the horizontals of a double-hung window and the verticals of a casement or gliding window) or where two surfaces slide against each other (the verticals of a double-hung window and the horizontals of a gliding window).

A word of caution: If you are planning on using rope caulk or other sealants that permanently render an operable window non-operational, make sure that you keep at least one working window in each room. Building codes require that basements and sleeping rooms have at least one functioning means of egress.

Our windows are ENERGY-STAR® certified and custom-made with a variety of glass options. If it’s finally time to replace your windows or doors, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

The post 6 Easy Fixes to Stop Drafty Windows in Winter appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

1. Look for damage and gaps.

When winter comes, it’s easy for cold air and drafts to penetrate through door frames and window sills that aren’t properly sealed. To prevent this from happening, check your entry doors and exterior windows to see if they close all the way, with no gap left. Additionally, check if there are any damage or cracks in these areas. Regular inspection of your windows and doors will go a great way in presevering them. A routine examination will alert you when the damage is minimal and can be easily fixed.

2. Inspect for air leaks and caulk.

Drafts are the most common complaint you hear about windows during winter. The good news is you can often eliminate the issue by simply caulking your windows. Air leaks most often appear around your window or door frame, so inspect the frame for any cracks or visible gaps. Sometimes you may not be able to see the crack but can feel the outside air seeping in. Once you have identified the areas that require caulking, clean and remove any old caulk. Use the caulking on stationary joints and around the frame. Caulking can play a big role in preventing air leaks and help save you money on hydro bills.

3. Check the condition of weather stripping.

When weatherstripping wears out, cold air will leak through the spaces, and warm air from inside the home will slip out. The damage may not be easily visible in some cases, so you should check carefully that the stripping is intact, preferably after every season. If there is minimal wear and tear, the stripping can easily be fixed, but if there’s extensive damage to the weather stripping, you should consider getting it replaced. In most cases, repairing the weatherstripping will be cheaper than the increase in heating bills.

4. Remove exterior window screens.

When snow starts to fall, you may notice that your windows get covered in snow and ice. In particular, you may notice a build up of snow between the glass and the screen. When snow builds up on the sills it can cause damage to screens and windows. The moisture around your windows could do some serious damage to its parts and could also lead to mold and mildew. Luckily, there is one easy way to prevent this from happening: remove your exterior window screen before the first snow fall. Removing the screen ensures less snow will collect on window sills and allows more warmth and natural light into your home during winter months. Bonus: removing the screen will prolong its life!

5. Install storm doors and windows.

Storm windows and storm doors are specially designed to protect your house from the harsh elements of the weather. They include extra insulation layers, which increase their energy-efficiency. In most cases, storm windows are installed over your existing internal and exterior windows, which is why they help conserve indoor heat.

6. Add heavy curtains and drapes.

Heavy curtains are an excellent heat preservation option during the cold winter months. They act as an extra layer of insulation between your home and windows, keeping you warm and cozy. And since quality drapes are relatively cheap compared to other options, it’s a great way to help save on winter heating costs. Another great feature is that they’re easy to adjust; you can open them when it’s warm out or close them when it gets cold.

7. Install energy-efficient windows.

Last but not least, we recommend upgrading to energy-efficient windows. Single pane windows and old doors lose a lot more heat, significantly raising your energy bill. An excellent and long-term solution is investing in energy-efficient windows and quality doors. While they may cost more, they will make up for it in the energy, and money, saved during winter. Double-paned windows, for example, offer twice as efficient insulation as single-paned ones, and triple-pane, if you’re in a frigid environment or wish to maximize insulation, offer triple the insulation.

Renewal by Andersen’s custom-made windows are designed to fit your home perfectly. Installed by experts, you can be assured that drafts won’t be a problem. In addition, our windows are ENERGY-STAR® certified, with frames made from our exclusive Fibrex® material which insulates 700x better than aluminum. If it’s time to replace your windows or doors, give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

The post 7 Easy Ways to Maintain Windows and Doors in Winter appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

How does indoor humidity affect the formation of condensation on windows?

Condensation on the inside of your windows is usually caused by excessive humidity. As the outside temperature drops, so does the temperature of the glass in your windows. When warm, moist air comes in contact with this cold glass, the moisture condenses and forms water droplets. Knowing when condensation will form on a window and preventing it depends on the energy efficiency of the window, and the exterior and interior temperatures, and the relative indoor humidity of your home. Indoor moisture is a normal part of life. Many activities we undertake in the home, such as cooking and bathing, release moisture into the air.

How can I reduce indoor humidity in winter?

• Open the blinds and drapes to let out moisture-laden air.
• Raise the air temperature in your home to decrease relative humidity.
• Turn on ceiling fans for more air circulation.
• Run exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom and leaving them running for 15 minutes or longer to clear out lingering moisture.
• Ensure proper ventilation of appliances, like dryers, to the outside.
• Avoid storing firewood in your house or basement.

Indoor heating tends to make the air too dry in winter. Can I use a humidifier inside my home?

While humidified air can be helpful to some people, it can sometimes have negative side effects. Humidifiers need to be cleaned regularly so that mold and bacteria don’t build up in their filters. Also, if the air is humidified excessively, condensation and other excess humidity related problems can occur. Winters on coastal British Columbia tend to be moisture laden so keep this in mind when considering a humidifier.

One benefit of humidifying the air is that it can help reduce static electricity in carpets and shrinkage in wall cracks and wooden furniture sometimes caused by over drying. Regardless of whether or not you choose to use a humidifier, it’s important to keep an eye on the moisture levels in your home so you don’t cause any other humidity-related problems.

Every home is different, but a level between 30 and 40 percent humidity is typically ideal for keeping your home warm and comfortable in the winter, without leaving condensation on the windows.

Failure to maintain a reasonable humidity level may have the following effects:

• Low humidity=skin dryness. Humidity levels below 20% may cause skin dryness, which results in itchiness and discomfort.
• High humidity=allergies. Humidity levels of over 65% may cause asthma, allergies, and other upper respiratory illnesses.
• Excess humidity=home deterioration. Components such as windows, tiles, wood, and doors that store moisture are affected most.

If the windows in your home aren’t properly sealed, air leakage and condensation can occur when there’s an imbalance in indoor and outdoor temperature. Moisture may also seep through walls and damage the paint on them, as well as cause peeling paint on window sashes. Even window frames are not safe from moisture damage.

The bottom line: keep a relative humidity level in your home that is comfortable for you. Once you reach that point, turn off your humidifier or reduce the sources of humidity in your home to prevent condensation.

For more information on condensation, check out our other blog post: It’s Condensation Season in BC, or view our free condensation brochure: 2021 Condensation Brochure – Renewal by Andersen.

If you’re thinking about replacing your windows, consider doing it in the winter. You’ll save money on installation because it’s quick and easy, and you’ll enjoy increased energy efficiency thanks to new replacement windows! Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

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