How do I decide who is the best in the business?

Our customers are the foundation of our business. We are dedicated in meeting their needs and expectations. We invite you to print out our Lormac's Homeowner Protection Plan to allow you to compare our price and service to any other contractor you might see for your renovation.

Why should I be concerned about windows?

Windows can be responsible for unnecessary heat loss, high-energy consumption and cold drafts and can be the reason for condensation problems within homes. Windows and the area around them are the biggest single area of heat loss in the home.

What are the benefits of an energy efficient window?

Energy efficient windows increase the comfort level in your home by reducing cold drafts and making a house feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. They help control condensation because the interior surfaces of energy-efficient windows stay warmer, allowing you to maintain a higher level of humidity without worrying about condensation on your windows. They also last longer because condensation can cause premature deterioration of windows, walls and finishes leading to high maintenance and replacement costs. Most importantly, energy efficient windows save a lot of money. By minimizing air leakage and improving thermal performance of your windows, you could reduce heat loss through windows by up to 50 per cent and reduce your energy bills.

What is a high efficiency energy rating?

Most average windows have an Energy Rating (ER) of -40. The smaller the minus number the better the energy efficiency. Window Wise windows have an energy rating of -10 or better for operating windows and 0 for fixed windows, making their ER rating greatly superior to average windows.

What does Low-E (Low-Emissivity) coating mean?

Low-E coating is a microscopically thin, metallic film that reflects radiant heat back to its source. By using Low-E coating, it makes homes warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer, while reducing heating and air conditioning costs.

What is argon gas?

Argon gas is typically done in tandem with the Low-E coating. Argon is an inert, non-flammable, non-toxic gas that constitutes about one per cent of the air we breathe. When the space between the two panes of glass is filled with Argon gas instead of air, the heavier gas acts as a thermal blanket that stops the heat from escaping through the glass. Because it filters out ultraviolet rays, Argon gas can also save your draperies and carpets from fading.

What does the R-value of a window mean?

R-value measures the resistance of thermal transfer or heat flow through the window. The higher the R-value the better. A typical R-value for the centre of a double glazed window is R2. When Low-E and argon gas are added, the R-value typically doubles to about 4, reducing heat loss by approximately 50 per cent.

How much money can I save by installing energy efficient windows?

On average it costs Canadian homeowners approximately $1,200.00 per year to heat a home. Of that, industry standards indicate that about 25 per cent or $300.00 is due to heat loss through windows, if the windows are standard double paned units. By replacing drafty, old windows with energy efficient windows like Window Wise approved units, a homeowner can save almost 60 per cent of their energy costs, or $180.00 a year.

How do I go about choosing a window contractor?

You should look for good credentials such as:

a. Are their windows tested to the CSA A440 standard?

Windows are tested for air infiltration, water leakage, wind load and energy rating (for an explanation of these ratings see Sill to Sash).

b. Are their windows certified by CSA?

Manufacturers whose plants are audited by CSA to ensure production meets tested standards are "Certified" Refer to http://directories.csa-international.org class # 8029

c. Is the window contractor a Sawdac member?

All Sawdac members have been in business for a minimum of three years, carry liability insurance, provide a five-year workmanship guarantee and abide by the Sawdac Code of Ethics.

d. Is the window contractor Window Wise Certified?

Window Wise contractors must install an approved window using the installation methods specified by Window Wise. All installations are registered with Window Wise, who carry-out random inspections to insure compliance with Window Wise standards.