All About Windows

Q: Window replacement is a very popular and common home improvement. What advice can you offer to get homeowners started?

A: A great place to start is by asking family, friends and acquaintances if they’ve ever contracted this type of before and if there was someone they could recommend. The next step might be contacting the Siding and Windows Dealers Association of Canada (S.A.W.D.A.C) They have an excellent web site which walks homeowners through all aspects of choosing the right contractor along with a great education on products such as window glass and their benefits. This information will enable you to make some style choices and your increased knowledge level will ensure your visit with the contractor is more productive for both you and your contractor.

Q: How do window requirements vary by region?

A: At one time triple glazing on window glass was recommended for far northern climates only however, since the cost of heating and cooling a home has skyrocketed , triple glazed, high performance glass makes more sense than ever, in all parts of the country.

Q: What’s the best way for homeowners to budget for window replacements and get a reasonably accurate idea of total costs?

A: Contact a contractor with approximate sizes and styles. They will be able to provide a rough estimate. Once you have an approximate cost you can budget accordingly. Some contractors can also arrange bank financing to suit your budget or offer deferred payments which enable you to get started right away.

Q: What elements of the replacement process can make a difference to the job’s timeframe? What are some best practices that homeowners can employ to ensure the job stays on schedule?

A: Window options like colour, shapes and decorative grids add to production time. Ask your contractor to include an installation timeframe on your contract and if you are contacted with questions on the order communicate your responses to the contractor right away as your order will likely be held until you do. A follow up call to your contractor at the 30 day mark inquiring about the status of your order would be a good idea.

Q: What trends are you seeing in window replacements? What in your opinion is the “next big thing” in the industry?

A: Triple glazed windows have become very popular due to the high cost of energy and we’re anticipating the advent of remote control function to open and close as well as raise and lower internal blinds. The ability to open your windows from work to allow fresh air flow is around the corner.

Q: What are some exciting new products homeowners should be aware of [e.g. more energy-efficient]?

A: Roll down and magnetic screens have become very popular along with a coating on the glass which actually ” self cleans ” the exterior of the window.

Q: What other advice can you offer to homeowners replacing or upgrading their windows?

A: Wherever possible try replacing with casement or awning window style. They are the most energy efficient operating windows on the market and if you choose from a maker with a lifetime warranty available on the crank mechanism, you’re worry free.

Q: Why did you join our network?

A: Our customers are using internet research more often than not now, when considering home improvements - especially if there is technical jargon involved that they want to become familiar with even before they meet with a contractor. Then when they are ready to get comparison quotes they are researching specific contractors online too. We want our customers to find us on reputable sites and service-specific sites.

Q: Naturally, we hope homeowners use our service to find a reputable local contractor…but if they don’t, what criteria should they use to determine the right choice for their window replacement?

A: Credentials and accreditation. There are currently no window-replacement specific licensing requirements in Ontario like there are for plumbers or electricians. So your best bet is to hire the contractor who has the following:

• A business license for your municipality and a “Renovator’s License” in the GTA
• Liability insurance
• A good record with your local Better Business Bureau and preferably an accredited BBB business
• Membership and affiliations with organizations like SAWDAC, ENERGY STAR Canada and Ontario Home Builders will ensure they have met the high standards of those associations. Window Wise Certified craftsmen and products means your installation is guaranteed.
• Lifetime warranty on windows means your product is guaranteed.
• Windows must be CSA approved and ENERGY STAR certified.