5 Signs You Need New Windows
Windows aside the aesthetic appeals they give to our homes also serve many functional uses. They help regulate room temperature. They give a peek into the outside world and they also help prevent noise. But like other parts of a building, they depreciate with time, hence, the need for a window replacement. Every part of your house speaks and it is essential to hear that voice. The window gives a little bit of those speeches in the form of signs when it’s time to take the plunge and get them replaced.
Here are the 5 signs you need new windows:
1. Difficulty opening and closing the window
This can be a heck of a problem at times when you need to get your home secure and regulate the “weather” inside. You probably have experienced those devastating screeching sounds that come with this. It’s one of the sure signs that you need a window replacement. Sometimes, difficulty opening or closing your window might just need basic maintenance practices. They include cleaning the window frames and lubricating. But if you have tried these with no success, you need a window replacement.
2. Noise from outside
When you begin to hear so much noise from outside, peradventure you live in a busy neighborhood, it’s a sign that you need to do a window replacement. The window was probably substandard from the onset or not sealed appropriately. Windows aren’t supposed to have so much noise permeate through them. Consider windows with a plastic-glass sandwich, air space, and laminated glasses. They provide acoustic insulation. They could go a long way in creating serenity in your home.
3. Exorbitant energy bills
Your window might just be the monster pumping up your energy bills. Those back-breaking bills could be a green light for window replacement. Windows are responsible for 20-25% of energy use in residential buildings. Trying to cut down your energy expenses? Consider a window replacement to a more energy-efficient version. If you also want to have your home listed for sale, the cost-efficient energy factor could also be a huge selling point.
4. Difficulty in cleaning
You don’t want a window looking like it had been installed some years BC. Shiny and clean cuts it. If your windows don’t clean easily or you experience stains even spells won’t wipe off, you need a window replacement. It’s a sign that your window has paid its dues and hence, it needs to pass on to rest.
5. Visible damages
Soft window panes, chipping and other deterioration can occur. These situations are usually beyond repair. Often, they are caused by water infiltration and environmental factors. It is proactive to get a window replacement should these circumstances pop up. Saggy windows are not so appealing.
Window Replacement
Window Replacement Companies Near Me
It's no secret that new windows will enhance the design of your home as well as stop drafts and significantly cut down on the outside noise. New windows are easier to wash and maintain than windows with combination screens and storm windows.
But that's not the only benefit of high efficiency windows. Saving cash on your energy bill might make it an even easier decision. The purchase of new windows could allow you to recoup roughly $8,000 to $24,000 in hydro and gas savings over the life time of the windows, which will ultimately end up paying for themselves over time.
Landmarks Energy Star-qualified windows will lower your energy bill by 30-40% /Per month.
Use our replacement window shopping guide to understand the materials, types and styles and other options that are available to you. we have created an unbiased rating to assist you in your selection.
Find the best Replacement Windows
We test, evaluate and compare the most recent replacement windows to provide you the best options for your budget.
To find out what windows are best at keeping your home comfy and dry, we have tested over 25 double-hung and casement-style windows for air and water discharge. we have found important variations between brands and in frame materials. operating with an outdoor laboratory, we have subjected the windows to significant, wind-driven rain, and winds of twenty five and fifty mph and temperatures of -17 C° and 22°C.
Given the high value of replacement windows, You cant always depend on a contractor to find the best savings for you.
Provincial tax credits are accessible for most home owners. Windows purchased in 2018 (and retroactive purchases created in 2017) Currently union & Enbridge Gas Both have rebates for Energy Star-qualified windows. To Schedule a free in-home assessment of your windows call 1-866-355-333.
Finding associate degree Installer
Even the simplest windows will not deliver the design or comfort you expect if they are put in poorly. several major window makers train and certify installers for his or her specific merchandise. In most cases companies will use third party contractors to complete their installations. Exploitation of the contractor for purchase and installation will minimize the probabilities of issues arising later. Look on-line for certification from Window Wise (SAWDAC) Siding and window dealers association of Canada and check out our rating.
Double Hung Windows.
Double hung windows make cleaning easy and allow for added ventilation with their double tilting sashes. Double-Hung windows are one of the most popular styles for homeowners. The window can be operated from the bottom or top sash, sliding up and down for ventilation.
Wood Windows
As vinyl continues its dominance over the window market, wood windows may seem harder and harder to find. But many of the big names in windows still have substantial offerings in wood (or wood-clad) windows.
They're sometimes the smallest amount big-ticket and don't have to be painted or stained, however most are white and typically they can not be painted. There also are fewer hardware choices. Among sash windows, there was very little distinction between vinyl and wood frames.
Fiberglass Frame
Universally, fiberglass windows will always be quite a bit more expensive than vinyl frame windows. Generally speaking, homeowners can expect the price of a fiberglass window to be approximately 1.5 times the cost of a quality vinyl equivalent. This is what makes vinyl windows so attractive to the homeowner on a budget. And don’t mistake the low price tag of vinyl to mean that it is low quality. Vinyl replacement windows are just as durable as fiberglass, if not more, and they will last you for years. With nothing but a quick wash now and then they will stay looking just as good as the day they were installed.
Casement window
A casement is a window that is attached to its frame by one or more hinges at the side. They are used singly or in pairs within a common frame, in which case they are hinged on the outside. Casement windows are often held open using a casement stay
.
Double-Hung Windows
A popular alternative. The lower within sash slides up associate degreed a higher outside sash slides down, up air circulation and creating full screens ideal.
Double-hung are straightforward to wash since you'll be able to tilt the sash on any of the windows in our tests. they are a sensible alternative if your propose is to put in a window cooling system, tho' most currently have a reasonably high trim on the sill that will need important shimming to stabilize the cooling system.
Some double-hung windows rate higher at keeping out cold air or water. that is vital if you reside in a very chilly, windy or damp environment.
Double adorned Window Ratings
picture of a casement-style window associate degreed an awning-style window.
Other varieties
Single-Hung Windows
They look like double-hung, however solely the underside sash moves. (They typically value less as a result.) the highest sash is sealed to keep out cold air and water.
Awning-Style Windows
They're hinged at the top and open outward. Like casements, the sash presses against the frame so that they shut terribly tightly.
Hopper-Style Windows
The opposite of sunshade windows, they are hinged at the underside and may open either inward or outward.
Fixed Windows
These are used wherever lighting is more essential than ventilation. they are airtight and are accessible with ornamental glass accents or in uncommon shapes.
Replacement Window Ratings
Features to look for
Here are a few vital options to consider once you make the decision to replace your windows.
Photo of a window that has low e-coating
Cheap vinyl Replacement Window Brands
Andersen, (USA ONLY) Marvin, and Pella (USA ONLY) are mainly USA based companies offering mainly A zone product. Several makers within the window trade market sell multiple brands. Andersen and Marvin sell some lines solely to approved installers, and residential centres like Lowe's and residential Depots that sell multiple lines. Use these profiles to check windows by brands.
American Craftsman by Andersen
American Craftsman vinyl windows are accessible in multiple-replacement and new-construction lines in well-liked double-hung and sash designs, and in low-E and argon-filled glass for prime potency. yankee Craftsman markets a line of stock sizes and has in depth special-order and custom choices. they are sold reception Depot.
For more Information on windows and doors please contact us at
1 866 355 3332 or https://www.landmarkquality.com/
5 Best Windows For Noise Cancellation
When your home is in a busy neighbourhood, it can be difficult to have a quiet home.
That’s because windows are arguably the most vulnerable part of the home for sound insulation. For a relaxing home, you need noise cancellation windows. Here are some of the best windows for dampening sound coming from outside.
1. Laminated glass
The thin glass panes are usually the culprit for noise coming from outdoors. Adding laminated glass panes onto existing windows is a great option for improving the soundproofing of your current windows. Although this option can be costly, the laminated glass will tone done any loud noises from outside.
2. Retrofit interior window inserts
Soundproof or insulated glass units are designed for installation on the inside frame of existing windows. They are manufactured by technicians with laminated soundproof or security glass. Since the glass comes in a sealed unit, the function of your window will not be affected.
3. Non-rated windows for heat insulation
Most of the non-rated windows found in hardware stores are typically intended to conserve heat. But when installed on the interior frame of existing windows, they trap dead air, providing exceptional soundproofing.
4. Window plugs
Window plugs are actually foam windows installed to block both light and sound. Once installed, they don’t let any light pass through, yet at the same time block any noise from outside. Window plugs are designed for easy installation and replacement.
5. Clear acoustical sound dampening plastic film
You can add this clear noise cancellation film to your window panes to enhance soundproofing of existing windows. The film works by minimizing sound vibrations, thereby reducing noise that passes through into your home.
If your windows are in need of replacement, you should consider upgrading them with energy efficient windows that are engineered for sound reduction. Some of the things to check for include:
The STC rating: Sound Transmission Class (STC) is one of the factors used to check the performance of windows.
Triple pane windows: Compared to double pane windows, they offer greater energy efficiency and 15-20 per cent more soundproofing
Choose SSP: Sound, Security, Performance — glazing for double pane units for improved sound reduction and security.
Contact Landmark Home Solutions today to learn more about our windows and doors.
Are You Losing Heat? Save Money and Energy with New Windows
There is no doubt about it: energy bills in the 21st century keep going up.
Not only that, but people are becoming much more conscious of their carbon footprint and their environmental impact. For many, one of the most feasible options for keeping their house as well regulated as possible is investing in energy efficient doors and windows. If you are wondering what can be done about high heating bills and large energy consumption, below are some of the ways that new, energy efficient windows can help you.
Thermoregulation
The problem with old, single-paned windows is that air flows in and out with incredible ease. Single-paned windows can be very drafty (especially if they are old and not well maintained). New, energy efficient windows are at least double-paned, come with superior insulation, and do a better job of keeping warm air in during the winter.
Tax Savings
In addition to saving you money on your energy bill, many jurisdictions offer tax rebates to people who choose to purchase energy efficient doors and windows. They do this in recognition of the effort you are making to minimize your energy consumption and be more environmentally friendly. Every little bit helps, and you can sometimes get multiple tax breaks if you have several windows and doors that are verifiably energy efficient.
Resale Value
Another reason to upgrade to energy efficient windows and doors if you don’t already have them is that prospective home buyers will appreciate it. If you are looking to add some resale value to your home, upgrading out of date windows and doors is good not only for street appeal, but also because prospective buyers will know that they are going to enjoy savings on their monthly energy bills.
Environmentally Friendly
There is a strong non-monetary case to be made for investing in energy efficient windows and doors as well. Doing our part to ensure we are not needlessly expending energy when we could make small changes to the way we live (such as energy efficient windows) should be a responsibility we all take seriously. Striving to minimize one’s energy use is something that is noble in and of itself.
Energy efficient windows and doors are now more affordable than ever, and a small investment can end up saving you an incredible amount of money and energy over time. If you are considering upgrading to new energy efficient windows and doors, keep the above reasons to do so in mind.
If you’re looking to change your windows or doors for more energy efficient products, contact the team at Landmark Home Solutions today!
4 Tips For Properly Cleaning Gutters
Ask any gutter installation company how to get the most out of your gutters and make sure they have a long, useful life, and you will undoubtedly be given some very important gutter cleaning tips.
Maintaining a clean gutter doesn’t just look better, it functions better, and that, at the end of the day, is what you want: a highly functional gutter that is effectively channelling water and debris away from your roof and home. Below are four tips for properly cleaning gutters.
Ladder Safety
The first thing a responsible gutter installation company should tell you is to ensure you understand ladder safety. It is typically not advisable to use a wooden ladder because they can be unstable, you should ensure you have the proper ladder for the job. People have accidents cleaning gutters, and one way to keep yourself safe is to understand your ladder and how it works, and, when possible, have someone assisting you at the bottom.
Invest in a Gutter Scoop
A gutter installation company will be intimately familiar with gutter scoops, and you should pick one up for yourself if you plan on keeping your gutters nice and clean throughout the year. A plastic scooping tool can help you quickly remove leaves and dirt from your gutters. Make sure it is plastic, however, as a metal tool can end up damaging your gutters and mean future repair costs for you.
Protect Your Hands
Anytime you are working outdoors you should wear gloves, but this is especially so with cleaning gutters, because the things that can become trapped in your gutters often contain a lot of bacteria. This includes dead insects and other pests, their droppings, dirt, rotting leaves, etc. Small shards of metal and rust can also be a hazard to worry about while cleaning gutters, so it is a good idea to get some durable waterproof gloves that are going to keep your hands safe and sound while you are cleaning.
Clean the Roof First
A lot of what accumulates in your gutter is debris that has fallen directly off your roof into the gutter. If you have a bunch of debris lying on the area of your roof surrounding the gutters, and you don’t clear it away first, it will make its way into the gutter at some point in the future, defeating the purpose of cleaning it in the first place. A pressure washer, or a soft broom with a long handle, is usually up to the task.
Gutter installation is something you are investing your hard earned money in, so you are going to want to maintain that investment by keeping your gutters clean.
Keep the above gutter cleaning tips and advice in mind, and make sure you are cleaning your gutters the right way, keeping yourself safe in the process, so your gutters stay up and running for years to come.
Should Your Gutters And Fascia Have The Same Look?
Choosing colours for your roof and gutters can be quite tricky,
especially if you are someone who likes to experiment and inject your own style and personality into your home’s theme. Your fascia sit right below your gutters, and while they are certainly not the make-or-break element of the exterior of your home, they contribute to its overall look, and are elements you want to get right.
Many people wonder if it they should have their gutters match their fascia, or if they should have he same look for continuity’s sake. Most gutter installation services will tell you that it really depends on what your goal is, but below are some things to consider when pairing your gutters and your fascia.
Most designers will probably be in agreement that the gutters are not a major architectural detail to highlight. They will typically conclude that the roof and the gutters should be the same colour, and that having them the same colour as the fascia is not an absolute “must.”
If you talk to a gutter installation company, they will most likely advise you to think of your fascia as the frame of your roof, separating it from the rest of your home. There are no real hard and fast rules as far as fascia are concerned, but many people like to go with traditional white because it is the cleanest look and provides a nice framing element to your roof.
The most important question to answer is, what does the rest of the exterior of your home look like? If, by keeping your gutters and fascia identical, you are creating no contrast or framing look to your home, you might be advised to go with fascia and gutters that compliment (it’s important they don’t clash), but are not exactly identical. If you have white window sashes but a darker colour roof and paint, a white fascia might be a nice white addition to a predominantly darker coloured home.
The bottom line is that fascia and gutters can match, but they don’t have to. What matters is that you are happy with the overall look of your home, and that you feel your home and roof have been framed adequately by the fascia, as that is what it is ultimately there for.
Keep the above design considerations in mind, and ensure that your home looks well put together, whether your gutters and fascia match, or don’t.
4 Reasons To Avoid DIY Gutter Installation
Many people don’t realize it, but your gutters are one of the most important features of your home,
and one of the things that you really shouldn’t skimp on when it comes to the installation. They look simply enough when you just stand back and look at them, but installing gutters actually takes some expertise and experience. If you are thinking about attempting to install your gutters by yourself, and think you are going to be saving yourself some money, below are some of the reasons that you should avoid DIY gutter installation.
Hard to Guess Pitch
Just because your gutters appear to be level from a distance, does not mean that they are. Even if you have used a level before and think you know what you are doing, it can be quite cumbersome trying to line up gutters during installation. Having your gutters properly pitched by an expert can avoid water pooling, which can end up damaging the gutters and your home if the water starts to seep into areas where it shouldn’t.
Forward Tilt
You don’t want your gutters to be level in all directions. Front to back, your gutter should not be completely level. Many homeowners who attempt DIY gutter installation end up having their gutters pitched too far forwards, which can place a lot of strain on your gutter and the roof once they begin filling up with water and other debris.
Hanger Spacing
It’s hard to get the hanger spacing just right, and even if you know how to properly pitch the gutters from your home, having incorrect hanger spacing can render all of that work and perfection absolutely useless. If you don’t have an adequate amount of hooks holding your gutter up, it will end up putting strain on the end hooks, which could eventually damage your gutter and your home.
Gutters are Delicate, After All
Most gutters are made out of aluminum and are very delicate. This means that you need to be especially careful during the installation, and take care not to warp or damage the material. All it takes is a big hit from a ladder, or accidentally dropping it on the concrete below, and you might be forced to buy a whole new gutter when you could have saved yourself the money by hiring gutter installation pros.
Your gutters are not something to take lightly. Having gutters installed by people who will take the utmost care could mean saving yourself a lot of time, money and hassle in the future, even if you’ve saved a bit of money in the short term.
How To Choose The Best Windows For A Brick Home
Choosing the right new windows for your brick home, or undertaking single-hung window installation for your home is no easy task.
With all of the options available on the market, you want to choose something that is going to go great with your brick. It comes down to personal taste, but there are certain windows that are going to look better than others and that will compliment the look of a brick home much more effectively. Below are some tips for how to choose the best windows for a brick home.
Casement windows
Casement windows provide that traditional look to the traditional brick home that many other windows can’t. They have hinged sashes that swing outwards, allowing air to flow freely through the entire window opening. They are elegant and provide a great throwback look that accents a brick house nicely.
Slider windows
The slider window is another great traditional window option that allows you to give your home that classic feel. Brick houses, above all, demand a classic feel, especially if you live in a part of the country where many brick homes are historic character homes. You don’t want windows that are ultra modern disrupting the feel of classic brick.
Awning (or hopper) window
Think of this window as a casement window rotated 90 degrees onto its side. It is hinged at the top so that it swings out, allowing you to leave the window open when it rains without worrying about water damage inside your home. This is another great window option for brick houses.
Tilt-turn
If you are thinking about new windows and money is no object, tilt-turn windows are great (though expensive) and add a level of charm and sophistication to a brick house that other windows don’t. They are also a bit more complicated when it comes to single-hung window installation because, as the name suggests, they tilt outwards like a pivot, or a hopper on a door. It, like the hopper window above, does a great job of keeping out the weather, even when the window is open.
Single-hung window installation comes with a learning curve and new windows are hard to choose because of all the variety available. But certain window styles look better on brick than others. If you are thinking about purchasing new windows and installing them yourself, keep the above suggestions in mind, as well as the pros and cons of each, and make sure your windows are doing your beautiful brick home justice.
How to Ensure Your Windows are Secure
Your windows are the gateway to your home.
They keep out the elements, they ensure that the temperature is regulated and they also, very importantly, keep unwanted people out of your home. Break-and-enter is a fairly rare occurrence as far as the general population goes, but depending on where you live, it can be a major risk. If you are worried that your windows may not be as intruder-proof as they could be, regardless of the area you live in, below are some tips to ensure that they are.
Invest in tempered reinforced glass
One of the easiest ways to reinforce glass is to invest in tempered glass. Tempered glass is a lot stronger than traditional glass and more difficult to break. It’s also one of the least expensive reinforcing options for your windows.
Polycarbonate and plexiglas
Plexiglas, also know as acrylic plastic, is about as thick as a traditional window but is generally tested to be around 10 times stronger. Polycarbonate windows can be on the pricier side but are more secure, as well as being more impact resistant than safety glass and stronger than acrylic windows.
Window bars
Having iron bars on the outside of your windows is the best way to upgrade the security of your home without having to make any alterations to your windows. Even if a would-be thief manages to break your windows, there is still no way they are getting through the iron bars. Many people object to iron bars because they feel that they give their home the look of a prison, but depending on where you live and how much you value the added protection, they could make a lot of sense.
Alarm systems
There are a wide range of window alarms on the market today, including window sensor alarms, which detect when a window has been broken and sound an alarm to warn you and your family, as well as smart alarms, which are wireless, easy to set up and can be installed on any window in your home.
Keeping you, your family and your belongings safe should always be your main priority. Whether you live in an area where break-and-enters are a major cause for concern, or would simply like the added peace of mind (especially if you spend ample time out of town and out of your home during the year) your windows need to be fortified.
Keep the above suggestions in mind and choose the window security system that is right for you.
Six Ways To Save Money On Your Utility Bills
If you’re looking at your utility bills and shaking your head at the price, you’re not alone.
Many people are stuck with high utility bills and aren’t sure why. However, there are six smart things you can do to save money.
1. Check your furnace’s filters
Every three months check your furnace’s filters to ensure they’re working efficiently. Faulty filters means your furnace isn’t doing its job and could lead to a high utility bill. You should also have your furnace looked at by a professional every fall because routine maintenance will help keep your utility bill from skyrocketing.
2. Turn everything off properly
When your appliances and gadgets are off but still plugged in, they’re on stand-by and eat up energy. When you’re not using your TV, fans, lamps, coffee makers, etc., make sure they’re unplugged. The easiest way to do this is to unplug what you don’t need before you go to bed. You don’t have to unplug everything, but unless you sleep with lamps and the television on, you should disconnect what you can.
3. Lower your thermostat
By setting your thermostat 3 degrees lower, you can save up to 10% on your utility bills. You may want to invest in a thick sweater for the days the temperature really drops but on regular winter days, you won’t notice a thing.
4. Switch to Energy Star® appliances
If your budget allows it, upgrade your appliances to more energy-efficient models. Energy Star® certified products use less energy than traditional appliances and can save you big bucks in the long run. Sometimes it’s worth it to spend a little now to save a lot later. The provincial government offers incentives to people who want to switch to energy-efficient appliances, so you may qualify for a rebate.
5. New windows
If you can’t upgrade your appliances but are still looking to save on your utility bills, try upgrading your windows.Twenty-five percent of heat loss in homes comes from our windows. Energy-efficient windows with double or triple paned glass, will lower your utility bills considerably.
6. Weatherstripping
Even the smallest drafts and leaks around your doors and windows add up. Think of each draft or leak as the equivalent of leaving a window open all year round causing your utility bills to rise. Instead of living with drafts and leaks, weatherstrip the areas around your doors and windows where air can escape.
If you’re looking to change your windows or doors for more energy efficient products, contact the team at Landmark Home Solutions today!