Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Poor operation. If your windows stick or have to be forced shut, it’s a sign that they may have poorly installed weather stripping. This allows air to escape through the frame and can allow moisture into your home during rainy seasons or winter months.
2. There’s a draft. If you feel a draft coming through the edges of your windows, it usually means that the seals are faulty through bad weather stripping or faulty caulking.
3. Utility bills are high. For maximum energy efficiency, make sure your windows are double-pane. Many older homes have single-pane windows that don’t provide enough insulation from outside temperatures. If this is the case, upgrading to double-pane windows will help improve energy efficiency.
4. There’s fogging. When you see moisture between the panes of a window, it’s usually caused by seal failure, which is the loss of air between the two panes of glass. Not only does this let in outside moisture, but it reduces the window’s insulation.
5. There’s water damage. Water damage from condensation or leaks occurs when windows aren’t properly installed or if the weather stripping is faulty. If you notice water leaking into your frame or wall, it is likely that mold and mildew will grow, leading to peeling paint or wallpaper and more significant damage.
6. Window panes are cracked, chipped, or warped. If your window glass is cracked or chipped, it’s time to replace it. Broken window glass can be dangerous if not replaced promptly because it poses a risk of injury. Cracked or broken windows also let in more of the outside environment and make it easier for someone to break into your home.
7. Window frames are rotten. If the wood around your window is soft, spongy, or waterlogged, it’s rotten. This can happen when windows aren’t properly sealed and too much moisture has come in contact with the wood. Check where your window frame meets the wall or siding; if there’s rot or decay, you’ll need to replace the entire unit.
8. Windows look old or outdated. If you want to improve your home’s curb appeal, we recommend replacing outdated or unappealing windows. Our custom-made replacement windows offer a variety of styles and colour options so you can find the perfect fit for your home.

Give us a call today or fill out our contact forms 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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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.

The post Four Reasons to Replace Vinyl Windows in Vancouver appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

Glass Care

Renewal by Andersen replacement windows are equipped with High-Performance Low-E4® glass, which works together with our Fibrex® frames in providing long-term performance, beauty, and energy savings. The Low-E4 glass coating has been specially formulated for easy cleaning although there are things that even a high quality class coating can’t prevent, like dust, dirt, and the occasional stain from spills and splashes.

Cleaning the glass really couldn’t be easier. First, wipe the glass down with a soft dry cloth. This will remove dust and grime that might have built up.

Once you’ve wiped the window down, apply a mild cleaning solution. We recommend you use soapy water, diluted vinegar, or a liquid window cleaner. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe down the window in a circular motion.

To minimise residue on the glass, we recommend not applying glass cleaner in direct sunlight. Instead, clean between temperatures of 4°C-29°C.

Avoid abrasive cleaning products, scrub pads, and rust removers containing hydrofluoric acid, as they can cause permanent damage to the coating.

That’s it! It’s really that easy to keep your window glass shiny and clean. For best results, you should check your windows about once a week or so. The longer grime and dust have to build up on the glass, the harder it’ll be to remove them.

Fibrex Frame Care

We use our patented Fibrex material for all of our window frames. One of the biggest selling points of Fibrex is the ease of cleaning and maintaining it compared to other materials such as wood.

Simply wipe down frames, sash, and grilles with a mild solution of soapy water and a soft, non-abrasive rag or brush.

There is one catch: do not use newspaper or other ink-based papers. They can — and will — stain and discolour the Fibrex material. (Keep this in mind when wiping down your glass as well!)

Insect Screens

TruScene® insect screens have been designed to keep the bugs out and the light in. TruScene uses a fine mesh that’s a perfect barrier for insects but is fine enough that you hardly lose any light coming in your windows. That being said, if dust and debris build up on that mesh, it doesn’t matter how fine it is. You’re going to start losing light.

Use a soft, damp cloth to clean all screens. No soapy water or cleaning product is required. For a complete clean, you’ll want to remove the screen from the frame first. To do this:

• Release the latches from the side jambs.
• Hold the screen tight and gently push outwards to clear the sill.
• Tilt the screen away from you and pull it inside.

Wipe down as needed and reverse the process to reinstall.

Lubrication and Corrosion Resistance

For those with casement, double-hung, gliding, or awning windows, or one of our patio doors, you’ll want to keep them well-lubricated. We recommend applying a dry lubricant once a year to all moving parts including hinges and rollers.

While our products are always designed to resist corrosion, you’ll need to give it a bit of a helping hand to keep it protected. Lubricants with corrosion inhibitors will keep your moving parts safer for longer in damp and humid environments.

Please note: do not use wet lubricants or harsh, solvent-based greases on your moving parts. These will not only damage your windows but will actually collect particles that promote corrosion.

With these simple steps, you’ll keep your Renewal by Andersen windows alive for longer. Don’t forget that all Renewal by Andersen windows come with our exceptional 20-2-10 limited warranty. That means 20-years limited warranty on glass, two-year limited warranty on installation, and ten-year limited warranty for all non-glass components.

Want your own easy-to-maintain windows? Give us a call today or fill out our contact forms 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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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.

The post 5 Common Questions About Fibrex® Answered appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

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.

The post 4 Window Features to Highlight When Selling Your Home appeared first on Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia.

1. Seal Failure — All substances expand and contract when exposed to temperature changes. As a form of plastic, vinyl belongs to the category that expands and contracts significantly. On a standard window installation, caulk is applied to seal the gap between frame and casing. This provides a weathertight seal that prevents air leaks and water infiltration. When vinyl contracts, it pulls at the seal which eventually results in seal failure. This is why we at Renewal by Andersen use replacement windows made with Fibrex® material instead of vinyl. It’s more stable, therefore isn’t prone to window seal failure.

2. Warping — Another consequence of expansion and contraction is warping. This happens when materials such as vinyl expand and contract unevenly. Over time, warping becomes noticeable, to the detriment of window performance and aesthetics. Warped windows can also form cracks and gaps that can affect your home’s energy efficiency.

3. Anyone Can Install Vinyl Windows — There is more to installing windows than just hanging them on openings in the walls. A slight mistake can result in leaks, unbalanced weight, and difficult operation. Vinyl windows can be purchased off the shelves and installed without a professional, however, it doesn’t guarantee quality workmanship. Replacement windows that are crafted, installed, and warranted by a trusted replacement window company can give you far better value than off-the-shelf items like vinyl windows.

4. Smaller Viewing Areas — Glass is the biggest and heaviest component of any window. Vinyl windows require thick frames and sashes to hold up such heavy components without collapsing or distorting under the weight. This results in smaller viewing areas. It may sound like a minor thing, but if you have windows with removable sashes, you can see the difference for yourself by simply removing them. Renewal by Andersen uses Fibrex because it lets us craft slimmer frames and sashes without sacrificing structural support and stability. With bigger glass areas, you get better views and more natural lighting.

Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia is your leading provider of replacement windows. Give us a call at (604) 757-0765. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Vancouver and Delta, BC.

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