Discoloration is a phenomenon unique to double-pane windows. While it doesn’t happen as often, knowing what causes it can help you make informed decisions when getting new windows. In today’s post, local replacement window contractor Renewal by Andersen® of British Columbia discusses what causes window discoloration, and the best way to fix it.

How Double-Pane Glass Works

You’re probably wondering why discoloration is unique to double-pane glass. Let us first explain how it works.

Buildings, including homes, have an insulated enclosure. The roof and exterior walls are insulated using standard materials like fiberglass batts or rolls, expanding foam or cellulose made from recycled paper pulp. These materials are opaque, making them unsuitable for use on glass. This is the reason why traditional windows, made with single-pane glass, are typically areas where the building loses heat during the winter season (resulting in drafty windows) and gains heat during the summer season. In some homes, storm windows and insulating curtains have helped address the heat loss and heat gain, but not in full.

Double-pane glass, also known as insulated glass enclosures, solves the insulation problem by separating the interior and exterior surfaces of the glass. A vacuum is created by removing the air between the gaps during manufacture, which reduces the number of molecules that could have otherwise transferred heat. It has proven to be so effective that Renewal by Andersen® replacement windows come with double-pane glass as a standard component.

What Causes Window Discoloration?

Keeping the vacuum gap sealed between the glass panes is key to maintaining its insulating capabilities. However — like any other type of window glass — double-pane glass is not immune to damage. If the seal is breached by impact damage, improper use or manufacturing error, moisture can infiltrate the gap. If this happens, contaminants can make their way in, resulting in a noticeable change in color.

Since moisture is the vehicle that drives the contaminants into the double-pane glass, discoloration can be mitigated by maintaining relative indoor humidity levels between 30% to 50%.

This, however, does not fix the problem. Since the gap is no longer a vacuum, its energy performance will be diminished. Discoloration will still occur. Since it’s not reversible, the only long-term solution is to replace the affected windows. In addition to choosing durable replacement windows, make sure that the factory warranty coverage includes the double-pane glass.

When you need a replacement window company that offers all these and more, choose Renewal by Andersen® of British Columbia. Give us a call at (604) 200-1025, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We serve communities in Vancouver and Delta, BC.

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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. Enhanced Curb Appeal

New windows can give your home a fresh and updated look that will boost its value. Whether you choose traditional or contemporary styles, the right window choices will instantly improve the appearance of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

2. Improved Home Security

Installing high-quality windows can help you feel more secure in your home. They provide an extra layer of protection against intruders and the elements, letting you rest easy knowing that your family is safe. In addition, modern locking systems offer enhanced security features that will make it difficult for anyone to break into your home.

3. Increased Energy-Efficiency

Today’s windows are much more efficient than they used to be. When you choose ENERGY-STAR® certified windows, you can be sure that your new windows will keep your home comfortable throughout the year thanks to their superior insulation and air-tight seals. This increased efficiency also reduces your carbon footprint and helps you save money.

4. Improved Home Insulation

Modern windows are designed to provide better insulation than older models, which can save you money on heating and cooling bills. New windows help keep the heat in during the winter and out during the summer, which can make a noticeable difference when it comes to utility costs. In addition, they offer greater protection from outdoor noises like traffic or loud neighbours.

If you’re looking for ways to increase the value of your home, investing in new windows is a great choice. We can help you find the perfect windows for your needs and budget and offer a wide selection of ENERGY-STAR® certified models that are designed for increased energy-efficiency and enhanced curb appeal. Give us a call or complete our online form to schedule a consultation.

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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.

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• 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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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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1. USE FANS

Ceiling fans, table fans, and tower fans all help to circulate air throughout the home. Fans are a more affordable option than air conditioning because they use significantly less energy.

2. USE AWNINGS OR SHUTTERS ON SOUTH AND WEST-FACING WINDOWS

Window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows. These outdoor window treatments still have the benefit of allowing a breeze to pass through open windows.

3. CHECK FOR AIR LEAKS

Doors, windows, vents and other openings in your home, even small cracks in your home’s foundation, can let in the heat. Make sure all doors and windows are properly weather-stripped, and consider installing an energy efficient door sweep on all exterior doors to create an airtight seal, preventing cool air from escaping.

4. USE LIGHT COLOURED PAINT

Use light colours on the walls and floors of rooms that face south and west. Additionally, painting your home’s exterior in white or light colours will reflect most of the sun’s heat away.

5. USE WINDOW COVERINGS

You can keep the heat out by using shades and blinds to control sunlight coming into your home during the hottest part of the day. However, keep coverings pulled back during cooler times to let in air flow. Try to create a cross-breeze by keeping multiple windows open.

6. INCREASE YOUR GREEN SPACE

During hot weather, grass, trees, and plants lower air temperature significantly. Water them regularly. Water also lowers air temperature. A misting system is an efficient way of watering plants while keeping water use, and temperatures, low.

7. REPLACE SINGLE-PANE GLASS

Double-pane glass significantly reduces heat transfer due to the insulating air space between the glass layers, making it especially good for south and west-facing rooms.

Helping you find the right windows to make your home comfortable while still enjoying the view is what Renewal by Andersen does best. 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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