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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1. It warps in the Vancouver weather.

Vinyl is the worst material out of aluminum, wood, glass, or Fibrex® for holding its shape when it comes to temperature changes. It will expand and contract readily under heat and cold. In Vancouver, temperatures can change by up to 10 degrees Celsius in just a few hours. This relatively rapid change puts stress on your vinyl frames.

The problem is that over time, the shape of your frame will change. You’ll end up with bent lines rather than the sharp ones you originally ordered. And it doesn’t just look bad; this reshaping and constant warping of the vinyl can result in some issues, explored below, that can get very costly very quickly.

2. The glass can sheer through the vinyl glazing. 

Like we said, vinyl expands and contracts more than glass. Seven times more, in fact. So when you have a glass element attached to a vinyl element, you have one piece that’s moving around a lot and one that’s staying fairly still. This creates a lot of friction and can result in the glass sheering through the glazing.  

3. Poor vinyl joinery can leak.

It’s not uncommon for older vinyl windows to have poor joinery. Between human error and inherent problems with the material itself, vinyl joinery is notoriously leak-prone. Poorly sealed vinyl window joints can cause water infiltration and lead to a host of problems. Leakage compromises the window’s energy efficiency and may damage walls, flooring, and furnishings. Over time, persistent dampness may result in mold growth and wood rot or structural damage which are all costly and time-consuming to repair.

4. Vinyl insulated glass seals can fail.

Vinyl-insulated glass seals are prone to the same problems that afflict all vinyl products: they weaken with age, they warp or crack in extreme temperatures, and they deteriorate in harsh weather conditions. These issues can cause the seals to weaken, crack, or deteriorate, compromising the window’s energy efficiency. When these seals fail, moisture enters the space between the glass panes, leading to condensation, fogging, and a reduction in the overall effectiveness of the windows.

All of the reasons above are why we use Fibrex for our window frame material. This patented composite material combines the strength and beauty of wood with the maintenance-free durability of vinyl. Fibrex will never require painting or sanding, and it won’t crack under the extreme conditions found here in Vancouver. It lasts for decades!

Want to learn more about our durable, easy-to-maintain windows? Give us a call today or fill out our contact form to arrange a free consultation with one of our Design Consultants. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

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Our commitment to exceptional workmanship and customer satisfaction has earned us distinctions such as the Best of Houzz Service Award; a Renewal by Andersen Homeowner Satisfaction Award; an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Award; a Big 50 Remodeling Award from Hanley Wood and Remodeling Magazine and a Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited Business with an A rating. 

What Sets Renewal by Andersen® of British Columbia Apart

Four reasons why we remain the number one window replacement company in and around Vancouver include:

• Exceptional window and door products. Few contractors are able to offer the high-quality windows we provide, as we use our exclusive  Fibrex® material for sashes and frames. Fibrex combines the strength and insulating properties of wood with the low-maintenance nature of vinyl. Thanks to the material’s impressive durability, we’re able to build windows with thinner frames and bigger glass areas. Fibrex also forms an airtight seal that helps prevent energy loss.
• All our windows are fitted with our High-Performance Low-E4® SmartSun Glass. This advanced option helps to minimize the amount of heat transfer in your home. By keeping your home comfortable, this advanced technology reduces the load on your HVAC system, translating to lower utility bills. Meanwhile, for your exterior door replacement needs, we offer beautiful and efficient French and sliding patio doors.
• Worry-free window and door installation. When you turn to a reliable window contractor like us, expect your home upgrade to run smoothly from start to finish. Our installation crews are highly trained and skilled and allow no room for errors—only timely and efficient work to ensure a safe and stress-free process.
• Extensive warranties. To protect your investment, our products come with a 20-year limited warranty for glass, a two-year limited warranty on installation, and a 10-year limited warranty for other components. Did we mention this warranty is fully transferrable? 

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.

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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.

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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.

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How we help

• We manufacture responsibly.  

Our Fibrex® material frames includes wood fibers made of at least 40% reclaimed wood fibers sourced from Andersen’s woodworking facilities. Our High-Performance Low-E4® glass also contains at least 12% recycled glass by weight.

• We’re sustainable.

Our replacement windows have longer than average lifespans and are supported by our Transferable Limited Warranties. These products help slow down the rate that landfills get filled.

• We reduce carbon footprints.

Our energy-efficient replacement windows can help reduce energy usage, thus reducing your home’s carbon footprint.

• We work with environmental partners.

We are partners with the National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC); ENERGY STAR® ; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

In addition to these benefits, often energy-efficient upgrades to a house are eligible for tax credits. Not only are our products environmentally friendly, but they also protect our customers’ wallets. Give us a call today and schedule your free consultation with our team of experts. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.

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1. What is Fibrex made of?

Fibrex is a composite material that is made of wood fibers and polymer. It is stronger than fiberglass, which is made of polymer and extruded glass fibers, and has a lower maintenance requirement than vinyl. Andersen® Corporation started developing Fibrex® in 1958 and patented the material in 1991.

2. Are all your window frames made of Fibrex®?

Yes. This composite gives our technicians the ability to build custom windows of any size, shape, or profile without sacrificing aesthetics and long-term performance. When we were founded as a full-service window replacement company, one of the key decisions we made was to use Fibrex® in our window frames and in some of the structural components of our patio doors.

3. Is Fibrex® eco-friendly?

Absolutely! Andersen windows are one of the most sustainable building products available. Approximately 40% of the wood fibers used in manufacturing come from reclaimed wood trimmings at our woodworking facilities. We also have control over our own supply chain, including raw material and logistics, which helps keep our carbon impact low.

4. Is Fibrex® protected by warranty?

The warranty that backs a product says a lot about its quality. All Renewal by Andersen windows are backed by one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. Our windows include a 20-year limited warranty for the window and a 10-year limited warranty for parts.

5. How can Fibrex® help me save on utility bills?

Our replacement windows are double pane at a minimum, which, when combined with the insulation of Fibrex®, slows down thermal transfer. Our replacement windows are certified by ENERGY STAR® for energy efficiency. They help maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce indoor heating and cooling requirements which reduces the workload on your HVAC system and helps you lower your energy bills.

Take a look at our video for a more detailed look at Fibrex^®:

At Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia, we combine the advanced technology of Fibrex^®, expert window and door installation, unique design combinations, and a start-to-finish process that revolves around your needs. We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River. Give us a call today and schedule your free consultation with our team of experts.

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This is why, aside from a property’s condition and appeal, home buyers also look at the windows and their features. When selling your home, make sure to highlight these four window features to convince a potential buyer.

1. Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient windows can help keep your home cool and drive down energy costs. Double-glazed windows provide better insulation than single-pane units, especially when a certified window contractor installs them. These features improve indoor comfort, reduce structural issues due to high humidity and significantly lower thermostat settings during the coldest winters.

2. High-Quality Frame

Window frames made from high-grade, sturdy wood can prop up large and dense frames. These materials are sturdy and can last for decades, but they will require maintenance and re-staining as they age. If you’re looking for long-lasting windows that require minimal maintenance and look great, Fibrex® frames are an excellent choice. Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia provides this exclusive material that is as strong as wood and low-maintenance as vinyl.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

You can figure out the best window style for your property by looking at your home’s architectural style. Some windows are ideal for traditional homes, like Victorian, New England, and Colonial. Others are better suited to modern styles. For example, double-hung and casement windows can easily fit in traditional homes while picture windows usually look best in modern architectural styles.

4. Maintenance

Low-maintenance, long-lasting and dependable windows are a big plus for home buyers. Hassle-free cleaning is important because it means they’ll have an easy time maintaining a clear and unobstructed view as well as the smooth operation of the windows.

Get the best ENERGY-STAR® replacement windows to ensure maximum efficiency and curb appeal. Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia can help you find the perfect windows for your home.

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What is tested?

• U-factor: a measure of the rate of heat loss
• R-value: a measure of how well a specific type of insulation can resist heat flow
• Visible transmittance (VT): a measures of how much light passes through glass
• Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC): a measure of how much heat enters through the glass from the sun
• Condensation resistance rating (CR): a measure of how well the window prevents condensation from forming on its inside surface
• Air leakage rating (AL): a measure of how much air leakage is in and around the frame of a window or patio door

What do I look for?

ENERGY STAR^® certified windows have a sticker. The sticker has product identification information printed on it including the manufacturer’s name, model number, testing metrics such as U-factor, certification number, as well as the blue ENERGY STAR^® logo. This permanent label should be visible on the outside of the window, near the hardware. There may also be a National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label with five numerical ratings on it.

What if there’s no sticker?

In rare cases, you may not see a sticker on your window because it was installed before ENERGY STAR^® certifications were required for windows. In this case, you can contact the manufacturer directly to find out if your windows meet this criteria. You can also look online at the manufacturer’s website or marketing materials for the ENERGY STAR^® logo.

Are Renewal by Andersen’s windows energy-efficient?

Yes! Renewal by Andersen displays the NFRC label on all of its windows. This label means that the entire window, not just the glass, has been rated and certified. All of our window frames are made from exclusive Fibrex^® material, greatly limiting thermal transmittance. In addition, Renewal by Andersen is also listed as a retailer of ENERGY STAR^® certified products on the nrcan.gc.ca website.

Lastly, because our windows are fully customizable, you can choose from different types of high-performance Low-E4^® glass or enhanced triple pane windows. Select Renewal by Andersen windows with enhanced triple pane glass were designated as one of the Most Efficient ENERGY STAR^® certified products in 2021.

We offer window replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River. Give us a call today and schedule your free consultation with our team of experts.

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