5 Things to Consider Before Replacing Your Windows
There can be multiple reasons that you are thinking of window replacement. Whether its sprucing up your home, lowering your energy costs or replacing older damaged windows. It’s true that the latest window designs have been improved, making them more aesthetically appealing, more energy efficient and easier to clean. A window replacement project is something that most homeowners are not very familiar with. So, before you move forward with the project, you should spend some time looking into this type of project and understanding how the new windows will fit in with your needs and design goals.
Here are the 5 things to consider before you replace your windows.
Energy Efficiency
Did you know that your doors, windows and skylight account for roughly 35% of the energy loss in your home? It’s true, so when looking into window replacements windows, consider upgrading to more energy efficient options, as they will help you reduce your energy consumption and bills over the years to come.
Choosing the Right Glass
The type of glass used will also affect the energy efficiency of your windows. Taking into consideration the type of glass that is being utilized in your windows is also very important. There are varied glazes such as double glaze, triple glaze and even quadruple glass. Double glaze has two window panes while triple glaze has three panes and quadruple has four panes of glass. The more panes used in your windows the more efficient they will be. Also consider having argon glass inserted between the panes to increase the rate of insulation.
Ensuring That Your Windows Are Safe
When purchasing new windows, many home owners focus on their operation and the way they will look in their home. One thing that is often overlooked is the safety and security the window provides. If you have young children or pets in your home, you want to make sure that the window doesn’t present a potentially dangerous situation. You also want to ask about locking mechanisms to ensure they will not be easily broken into if someone tries to get into your home.
The Window Contractor
Choosing the right types of windows is important to make sure the operation, efficiency, and look all meet your expectations. But, just as equally important is ensuring that you partner with the right windows and doors contractor to complete your window replacement project. Even the best windows will fail and lead to issues if not installed correctly. Check online reviews and inspect previous work before you sign any agreements. A local, professional windows and doors contractor will have the knowhow and experience to get the job done right.
Review Warranties
When it comes to window warranties, there are two types you need to ask about. First is the manufacturer’s warranty, this covers the new windows against any defects that may have occurred during the manufacturing process or transportation of your windows. Second is craftsmanship warranty. This covers any issues caused by faulty installation.
At Landmark Home Solutions we can help you find the right window for your space at the right price. Give us a call today 1-866-734-6701 to book a no obligation consultation.
What Are The Benefits Of Installing Gutter Guards?
Eliminating the chore of having to clean out an eavestrough alone has mad gutter guards extremely popular among homeowners across Canada. A gutter guard is a piece of hardware that covers the opening above your gutter and therefore preventing anything other than water from falling into your eavestrough. A gutter guards installation prevents debris from falling into your gutters, virtually eliminates regular cleaning and stops potential animal infestation.
Gutter guards are available in different styles, materials and designs including aluminum, vinyl, steel, copper, and PVC. However, the benefits remain the same, as long as they are installed and operating correctly.
The benefits of installing a gutter guard at your home are numerous, we review them below:
Saves Time And Money On Maintenance
Dirt, dried leaves and branches amongst other things can accumulate in your eavestrough, thereby leading to clogs and obstructing water flow. To prevent this from happening, we must regularly spend time and energy cleaning our gutters. Some homeowners that do not want to complete the task themselves hire professionals to help with cleaning their gutters seasonally. This regular maintenance takes up valuable time and money. But, with gutter guards, you won't need to worry about seasonal cleaning as the guards prevent debris, branches, and dried leaves from entering your gutters.
Improved Gutter And Roof Lifespan
Your gutters and roof are at the mercy of wear and tear including corrosion and potential mold growth, especially if you have dirt and debris creating a mini dam and blocking the flow of water. Corrosion and rust can cause lots of damage, leaving you with more expenses in the long run. Also, mold that starts off by growing on the debris in your gutter can spread to your roof, thereby reducing its lifespan as well.
Prevents Pest Infestation
Infestations are a menace to any home. A small insect infestation is enough to drive you out of your home for an entire week. Squirrels and raccoons can use your eavestrough system as a roadway to get around your home and other animals like birds can turn your gutters into a nesting area, which will invite other animals and insects. These insects can find their way inside your homes and cause havoc. Invest in gutter guards installation will block these pests from easily accessing your gutters for their own use.
Fire Protection
Dried leaves and debris are fuel for a potential fire outbreak. Without a gutter guard, dried leaves can remain in your gutter, clogging it up and patiently waiting to accelerate leading to a fire outbreak. Now, that sounds far-fetched, but the possibility is real. Gutter guards make sure your gutters are free of such debris that can catch fire, thereby reducing any risk of a fire outbreak in this manner.
Improved Water Flow
The absence of debris, dried leaves, twigs, and nests enables water to flow better through your eavestrough and down away from your home as intended, eliminating the dangers of water damage from excess water standing around your home.
How Do I Fix a Drafty Door?
A door that doesn’t seal completely, not only creates uneven temperatures in your home, it also can cause your energy bills to spike as your HVAC system works harder to maintain your home’s internal temperature. A draft that pass in around your doors can be a result of wear and tear, damage to the frame, weather stripping, or door, or poor installation. While drafts are more commonly seen around older doors, it is possible that even newer doors can be drafty. In some cases, the issue can be corrected and the draft can be stopped, in other cases the only option is for a full door replacement.
Here are several common issues that can lead to a draft entering your home, and how to fix these issues.
Worn Out Weather Stripping
Your weather stripping helps ensure a solid seal between your door and the frame. When the weather stripping has worn out or is damaged, it is no longer able to provide an airtight seal. Replacing your old weather stripping is a quick, easy, and fairly inexpensive way to stop drafts. If your current door doesn’t have weather stripping, installing stripping will definitely help to stop or reduce drafts.
Replacing the Sweeps
Door sweeps block gaps that exist at the bottom of your door. These gaps are a gateway for drafts, and blocking them will solve many draft issues that come from that area. Door sweeps also add an aesthetic quality to any home. You can replace your door sweep with ones that provide an added pop or that match your home design.
Adding Foam Tape
Foam tape, like weather stripping will help seal any gaps around your door. Installing foam tape is simple and inexpensive. Just make sure it is applied in the proper area to help stop drafts.
Use a Door Snake
Door snakes are essentially draft stoppers for the bottom of your door, think of a thin long bean bag. They cover the space between the door and threshold. Having your door snake flush against your door will block any draft from entering from under your door.
Cracked Caulk Around Your Door
If the caulking around your door frame is cracked or peeling, it most definitely allowing for air to flow through the spaces. Re-caulking your door will be an effective way of fixing a drafty door. All you need is a tube of exterior caulking to replace your old caulking once you have removed your old, damaged caulking.
Door Hinges Have Loosened
Over time it is possible for the hinges on your door to loosen. If this occurs, your door will no longer be square to the frame. This may cause your door to rub against the frame or even the floor when opening and closing, it can also lead to gaps between your frame and your door. Tightening the screws or if needed replacing the old screws with longer ones will secure your door back in place, and may allow for your door to once again seal properly.
Hopefully the above tips will help eliminate your draft issues. If, however your draft is due to a damaged door or frame you may not have the option of repairing the issue. Consult with a professional door specialist to review your options.
When Should You Replace Windows and Doors?
When thinking about home security, you may not think about your windows and doors at first, but make no mistake your windows and doors are some of the most important pieces of your home’s security. Having reliable, well-functioning, damage free windows and doors is key to having a safe and secure home. After some time, your windows and doors will begin to show signs of wear and tear and even develop some faults. If you are not inspecting your windows and doors on a regular basis, you may not notice these faults leaving your home and your family susceptible to potential security breaches.
If you are thinking, windows and doors inspection, where do I begin? We got you. Below we will outline five items to look out for when inspecting the condition of your windows and doors.
Operation
Wear and tear can cause several issues for your windows and doors, but the most obvious issue is with the overall operation. If you are facing difficulty opening and closing your windows or doors, it can be a frustrating experience. Chances are you need to put some elbow grease into securely closing them and additional effort in pulling them open. The problem with windows and doors that are tough to open and close, is that you can never be 100% confident that they are closed securely. For obvious reasons, an entry way into your home that is not closing properly poses a big security risk, amongst other issues.
Pest Infestation
Insects are tiny creatures that will find the smallest entry in your home and take advantage of it for as long as they can. A pest infestation can be a sign of damage such as a crack, a warp or a broken seal within your windows or doors. These pest entryways may get larger over time as pests traverse through them, making them accessible to larger pests and the cycle will continue until the issue is dealt with.
Loud Noises
Your home should be pretty soundproof when your windows and doors are closed. Yes, you may hear the odd horn honking or loud shouting, but you shouldn’t be disturbed by people walking by or the dog down the street barking. If you have been in your home and have had your relax and unwind time interrupted, there is probably an issue with either your windows, doors or both.
Hot and Colds Spots in Your Home
Noticing a distinct change in temperature in your home is never a good sign. Chances are if you are experiencing cold or hot spots in your home, they are fairly close to a door or a window. This is because a damaged window or door can no longer keep the outside temperatures at bay, this leads to cool and warm air to pass through causing a change in temperature. Not only will this cause you some discomfort, but it will cause your heating and cooling systems to work longer and harder to try and maintain your home’s internal temperature which in turn will lead to increased energy consumption and increased bills.
Visible Damage
Nothing screams out “take advantage” more than a broken window or door. Visible damage is like an invitation to burglars as it represents an easy access point to your home. Physical damage such as broken frames or cracked glass can cause all of the issues outlined above as well as being a major security risk.
If you were looking for a reason as to why replace your windows and doors? Safety and security should be enough, but increased energy bills, personal comfort, and pests all fall under this category as well.
How Can I Make the Front of My House Look Better?
The outside aesthetic of your home plays a major role in the impression guests and passerbys have of your home and on your property’s overall value. The external appearance of a home may also affect the property value of the other homes on their street. A well-kept, appealing home, shows pride of ownership and helps increase the perceived value of a home or neighbourhood. Many Real Estate agents advise homeowners to keep their home and yard neat and aesthetically pleasing to help improve the value of houses in the neighborhood.
You don’t need to have the most appealing exterior on your street to reap the rewards associated with great curb appeal.
The question now, is how can I improve the front of my house?
Below we will highlight a few simple ways to increase your home’s curb appeal:
1. Update Your Windows and Doors
Your windows and doors are some of the most visible aspects of your home. Anyone walking by or walking up to your home will be exposed to your windows and doors. When they get to the front door, if you take a few extra moments before you can answer the door, it's something your visitors will be looking at for a good amount of time. You can spruce up your doorway by adding lighting and adding a fresh coat of paint. If your windows and doors are getting close to or have passed the 20-year mark, you may consider replacing them. This will provide a rejuvenated look and feel to your home’s exterior amongst other benefits.
2. Add Window Boxes
Flowers effortlessly add beauty to both the interior and exterior of your home. If you don't have the space to incorporate flower beds into your landscaping, a great alternative is adding window boxes. Windows boxes are small and can be made of different materials. There are plenty of options available at your local hardware store or garden store or you can choose to add a personalized touch and build them yourself. They are fairly easy, and fun DIY projects. Traditionally these boxes are placed below your window frames, but you can get creative and hang them anywhere you like.
3. Lighting
Having a bright, well-lit front entrance is more appealing and welcoming. Lights, especially during the dark will give life to your front entrance and accentuate your front porch and any decorative items you have put out. LED lighting may be the brightest option and add extra security as neighbours are able to clearly see your front entrance, but choosing a more natural hued bulb will provide a welcoming ambiance.
4. Pressure Wash Your Driveway and Walkways
Over time, dirt and debris will build up on your driveway and walkways, there isn’t an issue with this as they are meant to be walked on and driven on. However, this can take away from your home’s aesthetic appeal. Power washing these areas once or twice a year will help clear off the dirt and remove any stains, providing a refreshed look for your home.
There are many approaches you can take to achieve a more vibrant front of your home, ranging from small touches to full renovations. These are just four ways you can increase your home’s curb appeal and increase the aesthetic appeal of your front yard. Remember to have fun with your upgrade and let your design and style preferences shine through. After all you need to love your home, before anyone else can.
How Do I Find A Good Windows Installer?
The quality, design, and materials of your windows and doors will dictate how they look and function, however the expertise and experience of the installation team will determine whether you will enjoy them and for how long. Even the highest quality products can cause issues and breakdown early with improper installation. You need to do your due diligence when choosing windows installers, maybe even more so than the type and style of windows you select.
The main question here is, how do I choose a windows installer? To help you answer this question, our experts have compiled their list of tips below.
Get Recommendations
To save time on searching for an installer but yet still have several expert installers to choose from, look no further than your social circle. Ask for recommendations from your friends, family and even neighbours. Let them tell you about the quality of the service they received, if they are satisfied with the end product as well as the warranty provided. With the help of the opinion of those you trust, it will be easier for you to find an experienced and trusted installation team for your project.
Evaluate Their Previous Projects
Irrespective of the recommendations and certifications of an installer, the best way to know what to expect from the windows installer is to inspect some of their previous projects. Their previous work will give you a good idea of how their final product looks, and in some cases, you may even get to speak with a previous customer. The installer can provide you with images and references to see their previous jobs.
Take Note Of Their Location
Although location does not affect the quality of the service provided by a windows and doors contractor, it can influence cost and timeliness. A contractor that specializes in your neighbourhood or city has probably worked on similar homes to yours in the past, and know what to expect in terms of potential issues. As well, a contractor that is based in a distant location from you, may charge a higher rate than someone closer to compensate for travel costs.
Look At Their Reviews
Getting references from friends and family is important, but understanding the general consensus on the work and service provided by the contractor can only be achieved by reading over their reviews. Generally, reviews give you a clear idea of what to expect in terms of customer service, installation, and quality. Looking at the posted reviews on the company’s website is fine, but remember these are all going to be positive, and may even be manipulated or even fake. Check independent review websites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google reviews for a true understanding of the experience others had.
Be Cautious Of Lowball Estimates
It is always nice to find out that a project will be less than you originally budgeted, but if the quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. These lowball estimates may lead to low-quality window installations and shortcuts being taken. Both of which will lead to issues down the road, and may even end up costing you more if you are forced to replace your windows prematurely due to faulty installation.
When looking for a good window installer, your best option is hiring a windows and doors company that is well known and trusted for delivering excellent window replacement. Experience and know how are really the difference between a good installation and a great installation.
5 Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Front Door
The front door to your home or business influences the overall external aesthetic of your property. It is a focal point for people walking up to or past your property. Yet, despite the important role a front door plays in every home or business, many people still don’t pay much attention to it. Consequently, a worn down or worn out door can not only lead to reduced curb appeal, but can lead to efficiency issues as well as security issues.
If you are uncertain of the condition of your front door, here are 5 signs you need to replace your door:
1. Your Door is Outdated
If your front door is worn or just looking weathered, there are hard to cover scratches and just looks out of place, it is probably time to look into replacement options. A new entrance door will invigorate your home or business’s external charm. A worn-out door doesn’t just affect your properties aesthetics, over time the materials may shift and breakdown, leaving gaps which air, water, and critters pass through. This also signals to potential burglars or intruders that there is an easy access point at your home. This is a potential issue with both windows and doors, and should not be ignored. Once your door has reached this condition, it is time to upgrade.
2. You Can Feel a Draft
When closed tight, your windows and doors should be able to seal your home from cold air entering and warm air from escaping. However, if your front door is not sealing properly due to shifting or warping, it will allow for air to pass between the frame and the door itself. With air being able to easily pass from the inside out and vice versa, it will affect your home's comfort level, as well as cause your heating and cooling systems to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature during extreme weather conditions.
3. It Scrapes the Floor When Fully Open
Over time, with the frequent opening and closing of your front door, it can lead to your door sagging or shifting. This will lead to the door scraping against the floor whenever you are fully opening it. If you don’t upgrade your door on time, it can damage your floor and perhaps even costly flooring repairs.
4. Tough to Operate
Doors that are in good condition don’t need any extra force to open or close. If your front door is putting up a fight or being difficult when trying to close or open, this is a sign of potentially serious issues. Your door or the frame have moved, warped, shifted, altered shape and are now causing friction between each other leading to issues with regular operation. In some cases, this issue can be resolved with some adjustment or lubricant on the hinges, but in most the issues cannot be repaired.
5. There is Moisture Between Glass Panes
If you begin to notice moisture building up between the glass panes on your door, this is an indication that the seals are damaged and your door has lost its energy efficiency. This built up moisture may lead to mold, and other forms of damage. Depending on how your door was manufactured, you may be able to replace the glass insert to rectify this issue. If your door’s glass is not interchangeable, or if your door has suffered from water damage due to the moisture you may need to replace the door itself.
5 Signs It’s Time To Replace The Windows In Your Home
Quite often we have homeowners asking us this one important question; "how do you know when it's time to replace your windows?" Windows are opened, looked through and allow light into our home on a daily basis, yet our windows are some of the most overlooked fixtures in our homes. This may be due to the fact that over 80% of homeowners only need to replace the windows in their home only once or twice in a lifetime. While there isn’t an expiration date on your windows, there are tell-tale signs that indicate your windows need replacement.
Below we have listed 5 signs that it is time to replace your windows.
1. Noticeable Drafts
If you are standing by your window looking out on a snowy day and you feel a breeze, this means air is passing from around your windows and into your home. You can easily test for drafts around your windows with a little experiment. Get a burning stick of incense or even a candle will do. If the smoke moves around or if the wick of the candle flickers, then you know it has leaked. Drafts are a problem because they allow for air to transfer in and out of your home, on a colder day warm internal air will escape and colder air will enter your home, where on a warmer day, cool air conditioned air will escape and warm air will enter your home. Drafty windows cost you, as they force your HVAC system to work harder to control the internal temperature of your home, driving up your utility bills.
2. Difficult To Operate
When you have to force your windows to open or wrestle with them to shut, then you know it's time you have them looked at by a professional. In some cases, this issue can be resolved with a little bit of lubricant or small adjustments. But, if the issue is caused by shifting or warped frames or corrosion, your only option to correct this issue is to replace the faulty window.
3. Fog Between Window Panes
If you notice fog or condensation build up between your window panes, the issue is more than likely due to a leak in the seals. This type of failure allows moisture to settle between panes and let the efficiency increasing argon gas that was between the panes escape. If you have condensation build up between your window panes, this window is no longer energy efficient, and will allow for greater heat transfer than your other, intact windows.
4. Increased Utility Costs
A sudden increase in your energy consumption should raise suspicions, that something just isn’t right. If you haven’t just recently purchased new appliances, or energy consuming products, take a look at your windows and doors. As windows begin to break down, they lose their efficiency and their ability to seal properly. As mentioned above drafty windows will cause your heating and cooling systems to work overtime to maintain the ideal temperature in your home. A noticeable side-effect of this extra usage, is an increase in your utility bills.
5. Aged Windows
Windows, like many other fixtures in your home have a lifespan. If the windows in your home are 20+ years old, chances are newer windows will be significantly more energy efficient. In addition to being significantly more energy inefficient, older windows lack proper glazing and do not protect from ultraviolet rays, which could ultimately lead to fading and sun damage on furniture, carpets, window treatments and other interior items. New windows are available in a wide selection of styles, designs, and colours, allowing you to choose the right look and functionality for your design and usage preference.
How to Choose a Window and Door Installer?
When planning for your next window and door replacement project, it is key to not only spend time deciding what type of windows and doors best meet your usage and design goals. But, to also spend time researching the contractor you plan on hiring to complete the replacement project for you. No matter how good the quality of your replacement doors and windows may be, if they are not installed correctly, it is only a matter of time before issues will begin to surface.
A quick Google search for “window installation gone wrong” or “poorly installed windows and doors” will expose you to the potential downfalls of not hiring an experienced, professional team to complete your windows and doors replacement. The question still remains, "how do I choose a windows and doors installer?" That’s where we come in! Our experts have compiled a list of 5 key tips that will help you select the best windows and doors installer for your project.
1. Reputation
Knowing the reputation of the installer you are considering hiring to complete your installation is vital. Ask for references, and post jobs you can look at. Being able to speak with past clients and even inspect some previous replacement projects will help give you an understanding of the type of work they do and how they treat their clients. Check their online reviews as well, don’t just focus on their overall rating (even though this is an indicator of satisfaction), see what people had to say about their overall experience, read the great reviews along with the negative ones so you know what to expect.
2. Rely on Your Network
Ask friends, family and even neighbours if they have a trusted windows and doors contractor that they know and have used before is a great start to your search. If there is a local installation company that has completed projects in your neighbourhood, it gives you the opportunity to inspect some of their recent work as well as ask others about their satisfaction level. If people in your trusted network are willing to refer you to a contractor they trust, this should be a good sign that you can trust them. Finding an installer from your community or that is at least familiar with your neighbourhood means that you shouldn’t have to worry about unexpected delays due to travel or being out of their usual service area.
3. Ask to See Proof of Insurance
Any reputable contractor should have insurance, this is important because the insurance will cover any unfortunate mishaps that may happen. This is not just for your own protection, but for the workers that will be on your property working. Let’s say one of the crew members gets hurt on your property or someone damages a neighbour’s home or their car. The contractor’s insurance provider will be the one to take care of those issues, without insurance, you may be the one liable for the damage or injury.
4. Warranty
There are two types of warranty you should ask about. The first is the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers the windows and doors themselves. This will kick in if there is a defect with one of the products. The second is a warranty on workmanship, this covers any issues that were caused by improper installation. The manufacturer will not cover these types of issues, so you will need the installer to back their work.
5. Experience
They say experience is the best teacher. So, look for an installation company that has been in business for some time and has seasoned installers and crew members on their team is a plus. Years in operation is the true measurement of experience, asking how many crews they have working at any given time? How many projects have they completed? and How many they have on the go at any time? As well as asking to speak with some of their senior installers should give you a sense of how much experience the team has.
When it comes to hiring anyone that will be working on your home, having a highly recommended, experienced contractor with a good reputation that covers their work with warranties and insurance is a must. But, when choosing the right company for your project, you need to also follow your gut. Hire a company you are comfortable with and have a sense of trust and report with the consultant you are dealing with.
5 Warning Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows and Doors
There are many reasons to complete any home improvement project, such as comfort, convenience, aesthetics, new technology, update the look and feel, but sometimes the reason is necessity. When a key component of your home has broken down, worn out, or is damaged beyond repair, replacement is your only option. All of these reasons hold true when you are looking to replace the windows and doors in your home.
For the purpose of this article we will be focusing on those necessary reasons that push you to replacing your windows and doors. Here are 5 signs that it is time to replace your windows and doors.
1. Damage
The most apparent sign that it is time to replace your windows or doors is physical damage. Cracked windows, rotten or warped frames, and broken mechanical pieces will all reduce the usefulness of the window or door, pose as an eye sore, and may even pose as a security risk as their compromised state can become an entry point for a potential burglar.
2. Increased Outdoor Noise
Well-functioning windows and doors will help reduce the amount of noise that enters your home from the outside as they are built with soundproofing in mind. However, if you begin to notice increased external noise entering your home such as passing vehicles, barking dogs or even people talking as they walk by it may be time to look into replacing your windows and doors, as replacement will help muffle most external noise.
3. Drafts
Your home should be airtight when all windows and doors are closed. If you feel hot or cold air entering your home, this is probably due to cracks in or around the frames of your windows and doors or due to a poor seal. Either way, the issue should be addressed. If you do not feel the draft, but do notice cool or warm spots around your windows or doors, you can test for drafts by holding a candle near your doors or windows. If the flame begins to move back and forth, this is proof that a draft is entering from around that window or door.
4. Difficult Operation
Opening, closing, and locking your doors and windows should be a fairly easy process. If you are finding it difficult to complete any of these tasks, it could be due to warping, shifting, or damaged frames. In some of these cases, the window or door can be repaired, but if your attempts do not fix the issue, or you notice several windows with the same problem, chances are it is time to look into replacements.
5. Increased Energy Bills
Faulty windows and doors can cause your heating and or cooling systems to work overtime to maintain your desired indoor temperature. If you have noted a steady increase in your energy bills and have not changed your regular routine, your windows and doors may be responsible.
There are many reasons and benefits of completing a home improvement project such as replacing your windows and doors. Sometimes these reasons are chosen by a homeowner and at other times they are literally thrown upon them. Taking the time to inspect your windows and doors regularly will help you catch any potential issues before they become urgent issues.