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Want to Enlarge Your Vinyl Windows? Here’s a Checklist of What’s Involved

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Vinyl windows enlarging checklistWhen it comes to home renovations people typically think the kitchen and bathroom, perhaps building out the basement or putting a bedroom in the attic. What doesn’t come up a lot is window enlargement. But enlarging the windows can make a lot of sense from an aesthetic point of view. Bigger windows mean more light and increased natural light has become a staple of much contemporary interior design. The problem is that enlarging the windows on your Toronto home is not a simple task and if done poorly could result in the need for expensive repairs. Below we’ll take you through the process of enlarging existing vinyl windows.

How to Increase the Size of Your Vinyl Windows

First off it should be said that window enlargement is not a DIY project. It requires professionals with serious carpentry skills. That said we’ll take you through the process so you have a better idea of what’s involved in case you’re contemplating having your vinyl windows enlarged.

  • Plan: Determine ahead of time exactly how large you want the new opening to be. While you’re at it decide which style of window you want. Different styles of window open differently and require different amounts of space to do so. Simply playing things by ear could lead to the creation of a larger opening than you’ll ultimately need. Blending this extra space into the rest of the wall after the fact will be devilishly difficult to do and will likely leave a visible area around the window as testament to the poor planning.
  • Prepare the area: Before the window opening can be enlarged you need to prepare the work area. Trim on both the interior and exterior of the wall will need to be completely removed to expose the rough framing in which the window sits. Care needs to be taken to constrain the work area by not allowing damage to extend outward into adjoining wood or aluminum siding or interior drywall. Once the framing is exposed it needs to be inspected for any damage that may have been caused during the process.
  • Enlarge the frame: The carpenter will now mark the outside dimensions of the new window on the existing framework. Using double studs composed of two 2x4s the carpenter will install the expanded frame boundaries. Once the new frame boundaries are in place it’s time to cut away the existing framework along with the old sill plate and header. If the new opening is considerably larger than the old, temporary bracing should be installed under the new top plate to keep it from buckling.
  • Install new header and sill: A new header should then be created using two 2x6s. A level point of reference needs to be established and the new header set level to that point of reference. The header is then attached to the double studs of the new frame using framing nails. A new sill is then created again using two 2x4s which are attached to the new framework and leveled. Jack studs are then cut to the appropriate length and used to replace the existing ones above and below the new opening.
  • Install the new window: Once the new framework is in place the new, larger vinyl windows can be set into it and the trim replaced.

Larger windows can open up the interior of your home in ways you might never have imagined but enlarging a window is an exacting process that should only be performed by qualified framing carpenters. If you are interested in enlarging your vinyl windows give the pros at Toronto Doors and Windows a call on 647-932-3667.

Increasing Privacy and Security with Your New Window Installation

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Window installation benefits are more privacy and securityPeople replace their old windows for a lot of reasons, most of which fall into 2 categories: aesthetic and energy-related. Both of these are easy to understand and make a ton of sense. New replacement windows will, after all, elevate the curb value of your home which in turn adds bottom line value to your property. And when you install new replacement windows from Toronto Doors and Windows you’ll also see significant reductions in your energy bills as heat is kept inside the house where it belongs. But there are 2 additional, less obvious but equally important reasons for replacing your old windows and getting a new window installation: privacy and security.

The Unheralded Benefits of New Window Installation

When you opt for a new window installation you can expect that your home is going to look better and be more energy efficient. But new windows will also help secure your home from both intruders and prying eyes and here’s how.

  • Burglars and wooden window frames: There’s nothing (short of an unlocked door) that a burglar is happier to see than old, rotting wooden windows and frames. All it takes is a screwdriver or crowbar to pop the window open and gain entry. With new replacement windows there won’t be any soft points for a burglar to exploit.
  • Old single pane windows are an invitation: Soft spots in the window frame aren’t the only way an experienced burglar can gain entry. Old, single pane windows lay out the welcome mat by providing almost no resistance. The burglar doesn’t need to break out the whole window, only enough to reach in and undo the locking mechanism.
  • Antiquated locking mechanism: Old wooden windows typically have a simple rotating-style lock. Sometimes homeowners will install bolt locks as well, but once the window is compromised these types of locks aren’t much good. Your new window installation can include key or code activated locks that will provide a wall of security burglars won’t be able to breach.

Privacy and Security Add-on Solutions

In addition to the enhanced security profile new windows will provide your home there are add-ons available that will ramp up the security to an even greater degree and provide an added level of privacy as well. These include:

  • Security films: Translucent security films are affixed to the inside of your windowpanes and will transform your windows from one of the most vulnerable points in the home to one of the most secure. When included as an add-on with a new window installation your home will enjoy previously unimagined levels of security.
  • Coloured films: You can add a splash of colour or make your windowpanes opaque by installing decorative films as part of your replacement window project. They’re inexpensive, easy to install and will provide an enhanced level of privacy from prying eyes.
  • Reflective films: You can really ramp up the privacy by installing dual reflective films on your brand new windows. Reflective films are just that; reflective. They’ll essentially turn the outside of your windows into mirrors while still allowing you to easily see out from inside.

When you decide to install new windows on your house you’ll have a variety of aesthetic options to choose from. You can also expect that the new windows will increase your home’s market value and provide significant savings on your energy bills. But don’t forget that installing new windows can provide an opportunity to enhance both the security and privacy of your home as well. Talk to the professionals at Toronto Doors and Windows to find out more about the many safety and privacy benefits of a new window installation.

How to Tell Whether a Window Installation Has Been Done Well

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If you have new vinyl or aluminum-framed windows installed in your Toronto home and you want to check whether the installers have done a good job, there are a number of tell-tale signs you can look out for both before, during, and after the installation process. For your convenience, we have listed these signs below. If you are about to have new windows fitted, you can check this list as the work is being carried out.

Signs That Your Window Installation Was Performed by Professionals

While it is of course important to do your research before deciding upon a contractor to supply and install aluminum or vinyl windows, you should still take note of how they go about their work once you have made your choice. Even if you are sure you have picked the best firm in the area, there is no harm in double checking.

• Measuring Up – The first thing you will notice when dealing with window installation professionals is that they will carefully measure your existing windows to ensure that your new ones will be a perfect fit. If they are not custom made for your home, there is a good chance you will end up with gaps between the frame and the wall.

• Careful Removal of Existing Window Units – Your current windows, whether they are manufactured units or separate panes of glass and wooden frames, will of course need to be removed before the new ones can be installed. Watch your contractor perform this task and see how careful they are. An experienced installation team will be take great care not to damage the surrounding walls and any mouldings that may need to be put back later.

• High Quality Shims – To make sure the units are level, it is often necessary to insert shims between the frame and the wall when performing a new window installation. However, these shims should be made for this purpose and not random pieces of wood that are just lying around. If your Toronto contractor uses purpose-made shims, you can be fairly sure they know what they are doing.

• Exterior Caulking – The join between the frame and siding on the outside wall should be properly caulked to ensure that water is not able to seep through. You can perform a basic water test with an ordinary garden hose, once the caulking is fully cured, to make sure that a watertight seal has formed. However, a visual inspection of the contractor at work should give you some clues beforehand.

• Post Installation Inspection – A professional team will perform a thorough inspection once the window installation process has been completed. While performing the inspection, they should explain what they are doing and show you how to use your new windows. There is no need to feel insulted if they offer to show you how to operate the opening and closing mechanisms: it may seem obvious to you but there are various different types of mechanism on the market today and a consummate professional will always cover all the bases.

• Maintenance Tips – Something else a professional installer will do is to take the time to explain how best to maintain your new windows. Again, this will not, in all likelihood, be a particularly complicated process but the fact your contractor takes the time to go through it with you is a very good sign.

If you have yet to choose a contractor for your new window installation, call or email us to request a free estimate. Our installers are experienced professionals and know exactly what they are doing.

The Consequences of Not Replacing Old Windows and Doors

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Given the cost of new windows and doors, it is hardly surprising that many homeowners, in Toronto and elsewhere, delay the decision to fit them in their properties as long as possible. However, when you look at the possible consequences of not installing new units in your home, you may change your mind and decide that the sooner you have the work done, the better. Firstly, new vinyl units may not be as expensive as you think and secondly, the cost of not replacing old doors and windows could be more than you had previously imagined.

Why Your Windows and Doors Should Be Replaced

Before you decide to put off replacing yours, consider the possible consequences of doing so, as outlined below.

• Higher Utility Bills – Older windows provide less insulation than modern units, as do older doors with panes of glass in them. This means that if you have particularly old doors and windows in your home, you could be paying more to heat and cool it than is really necessary. To establish exactly how much you could save by installing replacements, you should talk to a reputable contractor.

• Less Security – Windows and doors that feature single panes of glass are an open invitation for opportunist thieves in the area as they are very easy to break. Modern glass units, with at least 2 panes that are separated by a vacuum, are considerably more difficult to break. While far from impossible to gain entry through such units, the amount of time it would take and the attendant noise are enough to put off most potential intruders.

• Lower Property Value – Whether you wish to sell your home in the near future or borrow money on the capital invested in it, based on an appraisal from your bank, brand new windows and doors will increase its value and should therefore put you in a better bargaining position. While you may not recoup the total cost of replacement in the event of a sale, you will be able to enjoy the other benefits pointed out in this list until you decide to move on.

• Less Curb Appeal – Even with a fresh coat of paint, new shingles, eavestroughs, soffits and fascia board, your home will still look a little shabby if your doors and windows have seen better days. Installing replacements is a great way to give an otherwise nice looking Toronto property an instant and dramatic facelift.

• More Maintenance Work – Whether you do it yourself or pay someone to do it for you, there is no getting away from the fact that wood-framed windows and wooden doors require more care and attention than their vinyl and aluminum counterparts. If you prefer the idea of a good-looking, low maintenance property, you should seriously consider having replacement windows and doors fitted in the near future.

• A Noisier Home – The insulating properties that make modern vinyl units such a good choice for those who are trying to create an energy-efficient home have the added benefit of providing better isolation from outdoor noise. If you decide to put off replacing your current doors and windows, there is a very good chance that your home environment will be much noisier than it really needs to be. For peace and quiet, as well as peace of mind, new vinyl units are well worth considering.

If you are convinced that now would be a very good time to replace the windows and doors in your property, please feel free to get in touch with us to arrange for a free no-obligation estimate.

8 Questions to Ask When Shopping for Vinyl Windows

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Replacement windows are a big investment so you need to be sure that the company who supplies and installs them knows exactly what they are doing and that you choose the right windows for your property. Below are 8 questions you can ask the companies you approach all about vinyl windows, to help ensure that you make the right choices. There are quite a few reputable suppliers and installers that offer their services across the Greater Toronto Area so there is no need to settle for second best.

Vinyl Windows: 8 Questions You Should Be Asking

Whenever you start talking to a local company about replacement windows for your property, be sure to ask them the following questions.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business in the GTA? – A company that has been serving homeowners in the area for many years will be much better equipped to deal with any installation issues that may arise and will be able to give you accurate advice when it comes to recommending the best type of windows for properties in this part of the world. They will know which styles sell well, which type of vinyl windows stand up to the local weather conditions the best, and what other people with similar properties to yours have chosen to have installed.

2. How Long Will It Take to Install My New Windows? – Given that you will probably want to vacate the property while the work is being carried out, or at least arrange to sleep and have your meals elsewhere, it is important to know how long it will take.

3. What is the Energy Rating of the Glass in Your Windows? – The energy rating of the glass in the vinyl windows you buy will determine how much you could save on utility bills in the long term.

4. What Kind of Guarantees for Materials and Labour Do You Offer? – Given the amount of money you will be spending, you should make sure that the company you give your business to offers a comprehensive warranty for both their windows and workmanship.

5. Are You Insured? – Comprehensive liability insurance will cover any accidental damage or injuries that may occur during the installation process and is therefore essential.

6. Do You Have a Showroom? – The best way for you to get a feel for how different styles of vinyl windows will look in your home is to see them in a showroom setting. Catalogs are useful but it is much easier to judge what they really look like when you see windows installed in a showroom environment.

7. Are Your Quotations All-Inclusive? – If you are going to compare quotations from several different companies in Toronto, you need to know that each one includes all necessary installation work and materials. If there are any hidden extras, these could invalidate your comparisons.

8. Do You Have Your Own Installation Team? – Companies with their own in-house installers will be able to guarantee a higher level of service than those who leave the work to subcontractors.

To speak to a company that has helped numerous local homeowners upgrade their properties with high quality vinyl windows, call Toronto Doors and Windows now. We provide free initial consultations and estimates for customers in all parts of the GTA, and would be delighted to help you improve your home in the near future.

Windows and Doors: What Kind of ROI Can You Look Forward to?

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Although it is difficult to find accurate figures for the return on investment enjoyed by homeowners in Toronto who have recently completed home improvement projects, or indeed accurate figures for anywhere in the country, it is possible to take the figures released by a couple of respected institutes and determine some basic trends from them. We can, for example, easily see that landscaping the grounds on which your property stands can result in a return of 2.5 times your initial investment should you choose to sell up and move in the future. While replacement doors and windows may not offer quite such a staggering return, they do represent one of the better investments as far as improvements to your property rather than its grounds are concerned.

ROI for Replacement Windows and Doors

If you decide to replace either your entry doors or your exterior windows in the near future, you can expect to see a return on your investment, in the event that you should subsequently decide to sell your property, of between 50% to 100%. This is obviously a very good return, making both options a very popular choice of home improvement project in Toronto and across the country. Below are some of the reasons that property buyers place so much value on good quality replacement windows and doors.

  • Curb Appeal – First impressions are very important, as almost everybody is aware. When prospective buyers come for a viewing, the first thing they will see on their arrival is the exterior of your home. If you have recently had quality doors and double-glazed windows fitted, your property will be looking its very best from the outside and is sure to make a good impression. Potential buyers who already like your house before they go through the front door are far more likely to make an offer, and a generous one at that.
  • Lower Utility Bills – Most buyers are aware of the fact that modern windows and doors are far more energy efficient than their predecessors. What this means is that any house they view that already has modern replacement units fitted will be more attractive to them as a long-term investment because it will cost less to heat in the winter and less to cool in the summer. Lower utility bills are an especially attractive incentive for couples that are taking on a big mortgage for the very first time.
  • Lower Carbon Footprint – The same energy efficiency that results in lower utility bills will also result in a smaller carbon footprint for whoever lives in your property in the future. Environmentally concerned citizens will therefore be more inclined to make an offer on your home than on a comparable property with less energy efficient windows and doors fitted.
  • Ease of Maintenance – Modern vinyl window units and composite doors are much easier to maintain than the timber fixtures that are a feature of many older properties in the city. They will not warp or crack in the heat and humidity that are a regular feature of the summers here, nor will they rot when exposed to torrential rain for weeks on end. Timber doors and timber-framed window units need refinishing on a regular basis if they are to remain in good condition whereas vinyl and composite units only require an occasional wipe down with a wet rag to keep them looking good.

Call or email us today to find out more about the benefits of replacement windows and doors. If you would like a free estimate for your property, we will be more than happy to oblige.