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Edmonton Fall/Winter 2018

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Christenson Exteriors<br />

WINDOW REPLACEMENT SPECIALIST<br />

Article written by Randy Christenson - Owner Christenson Exteriors<br />

Why should I consider replacing my windows?<br />

If your windows are more than 15-20 years old, replacing<br />

them is one of the best ways to increase the energy<br />

efficiency and comfort of your home. Anywhere from 25<br />

to 30 % of your home’s energy costs are lost through the<br />

windows. As well, when the inside surface of the glass gets<br />

below 11 degrees Celsius a room will feel cold. Installing<br />

new energy-efficient windows can greatly decrease your<br />

heating costs and improve your comfort level in your<br />

home.<br />

My windows are only 20 years old, should I look at<br />

replacing them?<br />

Over time, the components of a window will suffer wear<br />

and tear. Seals lose their elasticity and their ability to seal<br />

moisture and cold air out. Hardware wears out and makes<br />

opening and closing the windows more difficult. With<br />

wood windows moisture can get into the wood causing<br />

the components to swell or shrink, making them difficult<br />

to open or close. Windows that are difficult to open or<br />

close or have condensation between the panes of glass<br />

could indicate that it is time to consider replacement<br />

windows.<br />

What are windows made of today?<br />

Window frames can be manufactured from many different<br />

types of materials. These range from hollow vinyl to composite<br />

vinyl, fibreglass, wood, wood-metal clad, vinyl-metal<br />

clad and even aluminum and steel frames.<br />

Many of window replacements these days are done with<br />

hollow vinyl frames. These windows balance energy efficiency,<br />

stability and rigidness. Composite vinyl frames offer<br />

an even more rigid frame and better energy efficiency.<br />

Fibreglass frames are among the strongest, most durable<br />

frames one can find. This allows for some configurations<br />

that other window types cannot provide.<br />

Wood metal clad and vinyl metal clad windows marry<br />

the performance of the vinyl or wood windows with the<br />

durability and strength of metal. European style “tilt-turn”<br />

windows are made of extruded vinyl and steel and are engineered<br />

to allow for some the most energy efficient, sturdy<br />

windows on the market. The size of operating windows<br />

that can be built with these windows is truly astounding.<br />

How do I know if my windows need replacing?<br />

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described<br />

earlier, you should likely start researching your window<br />

replacement options. There is no one-size fits all, cookie-cutter<br />

solution to window replacements.<br />

The age and the style of the home, type of frame, glass &<br />

which Low E coatings all must be discussed. As well, you<br />

may be thinking of updating the look of your home with<br />

new siding or stucco. To find the right solution, all of these<br />

things need to be considered. The first step many people<br />

take is to do an internet search. Places like CMHC and the<br />

Efficient Windows Collaborative have loads of information.<br />

Next you might want to visit window contractor’s showroom<br />

to see what the different options look like. Then you<br />

may have someone come and do an assessment on your<br />

present windows.<br />

Window Replacement<br />

Specialist<br />

Time for a New Window?<br />

780.451.8860<br />

Call us for a<br />

FREE QUOTE TODAY!<br />

• Written estimates<br />

• 5 Year work guarantee<br />

• Job completed as promised<br />

• High efficiency windows for harsh alberta climates<br />

WWW.CHRISTENSONEXTERIORS.COM<br />

REAL HOME ADVICE 6

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