In this blog post, we’ll explore six common issues homeowners encounter with sliding patio doors and provide practical solutions to overcome them. Let’s dive in and discover how to address these common problems.

1. Stuck Doors
One of the most common and frustrating problems homeowners may encounter with sliding patio doors is when they become stuck or difficult to open and close. This issue is often caused by debris—dirt, dust, hair, and fur that’s accumulated in the door tracks, clogging the rollers. Start by thoroughly cleaning the tracks with a brush or vacuum cleaner. Then, apply a sliding-door lubricant to the tracks and rollers to promote smooth movement. If the problem continues, it might be necessary to adjust the rollers or check for any structural issues with the door frame that could be causing the obstruction.

2. Alignment Problems
If your sliding patio door doesn’t align properly, it can result in air leaks, difficulty opening or closing, or even damage to the door itself. Begin by examining the door’s alignment by checking for any visible gaps or misalignment when the door is closed. Adjust the rollers or tracks as needed to ensure proper alignment. Realign your doors by removing it from the track and reinserting it to rectify this problem. Be sure to readjust the screws if needed. Sometimes, consulting a professional for a more complex realignment task may be necessary.

3. Broken Latches
A broken latch can compromise the security and safety of your home. If your sliding patio door latch is malfunctioning or has broken altogether, it’s essential to address this as soon as possible. Inspect the latch mechanism to identify any visible damage or loose components. If it’s a minor issue, such as a loose screw, tightening it may solve the problem. If it’s stuck, a simple oiling will usually do the trick. However, if the latch is damaged beyond repair, unscrew, remove, and replace it with the same model. 

4. Shattered Glass
Accidents happen, and occasionally a sliding patio door’s glass can shatter, resulting in both a safety hazard and a decreased energy efficiency. In the event of shattered glass, it’s vital to prioritize safety. Wear protective gloves and carefully remove any remaining glass shards. Contact a professional to replace the broken glass with a new and secure panel. It’s also an opportunity to consider upgrading to impact-resistant or energy-efficient glass options.

5. Torn Screens
A torn or damaged screen can be unattractive and fail to offer protection against insects. Fortunately, addressing this problem is often straightforward. Begin by carefully removing the damaged screen and taking measurements to ensure an accurate replacement. You can find pre-made replacement screens or consider creating a custom screen to fit your specific door dimensions.

6. Broken or Worn Seal
Broken or worn-out seals can lead to air and moisture leaks, resulting in reduced energy efficiency and potential water damage. Inspect the weatherstripping and seals around your sliding patio door for any signs of wear or damage. If you identify areas needing attention, replace the old weatherstripping with a new one.

Getting your windows and doors replaced by Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia means experiencing unmatched quality, customized solutions, and outstanding customer service. If you’re ready to transform your home’s appearance and functionality, call us 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, Campbell River, and the Okanagan. 

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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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• Tip #1: Repair obvious damage. Now that the winter weather has ended, examine all your windows for cracks, chips, or warping. Have a professional repair major damages as soon as possible.

• Tip #2: Check the weather stripping. The strips of material between a window’s sash and pane help seal the window, preventing outside air from leaking into your home. These strips are often one of the first features to deteriorate, so it’s important to check their condition. If they’re worn down, they can let outside air into your home, which can result in higher hydro bills.

• Tip #3: Clean the glass. You might be surprised to see how much dirt and debris accumulate on your windows during the winter. This can break down the surface of even the best windows, causing them to age prematurely. Clean your windows with soap and water and a good glass cleaner. Don’t forget to do both sides!

• Tip #4: Use lighter curtains. During the winter, it’s common to hang curtains made of heavier fabric and darker colours. However, during spring and summer, keeping these up can leave rooms feeling too hot and stuffy. Switch to light-coloured, thinner curtains to help with airflow, making your rooms feel brighter.

• Tip #5: Display indoor plants. Indoor plants bring a sense of spring to any home. They not only add colour to a room, but they also filter allergens, promote natural oxygen production, and absorb carbon dioxide.

If these tips don’t restore your windows to their former glory, it may be time to invest in new ones. Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia installs superior windows protected by one of the industry’s leading warranties. Give us a call or complete our online form to schedule a consultation.

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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. 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.

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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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Here are six things you can do to prepare your home for fall:

1. Check your roof and gutters

It’s a good idea to look over your roof and gutters now before winter sets in. Look for any shingles that are bent, cracked or missing, and replace them. Check for leaks in these areas as well as around chimneys and skylights. While you’re up there, clear the leaves and debris from your gutters while the weather is still good.

2. Clear your yard

To protect your backyard furniture from the cold, clean and cover it and store in a dry place. Move grills, barbeques and other outdoor tools such as lawnmowers into a shed or garage. Disconnect and drain your outside hose while you’re at it.

3. Get your HVAC serviced

This time of year, it’s a good idea to get your heating and air-conditioning system inspected and serviced. You don’t want to be stuck with a dirty filter that will let allergens into the air around your home during the cooler months. If you have ceiling fans, reverse direction to a clockwise motion to create an updraft to move warm air down.

4. Clean and weatherproof outside surfaces

Summer’s end is the last chance to rent a power washer you’ll need to clean your patio, driveway, deck and home exterior. You should also renew weatherproofing on decks, fences, and other exterior structures as well as insulate any pipes in unheated locations.

5. Check your home’s exterior for cracks

Take care of the exterior of your house before the fall rains, winter snows, and spring melt have their way. Openings in the structure can let water in where it will freeze, resulting in cracks and mold. Caulk around the areas where masonry meets siding and where pipes or wires enter the house before it gets too cold.

6. Check window and door seals

To save money on heating and cooling costs, check your windows and doors for drafts. Apply weather stripping or caulk around the frames to cut down on drafts. Make sure the seal between your garage door and the ground is tight too, to prevent drafts and small animals from entering. While you’re at it, clean windows of summer grime before cold weather sets in.

Renewal by Andersen offers a wide range of window and patio doors that can improve the look, feel, and functionality of your home. Whether you’re looking for new windows to make your home comfortable and energy-efficient or want an upgrade that will increase the value of your property, Renewal by Andersen provides premier products and installation services.

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