There are several reasons why people in the Greater Toronto area need replacement windows, and each case is as individual as a snowflake. Some homeowners, during the planning stages of a remodel or renovation, will decide replacement windows will add value, stylish looks, and increased energy efficiency to their project. A growing family with young children may decide that their family room needs to be brighter and more open and look to replacement window solutions to achieve this goal.
For the myriad reasons Toronto homeowners look for replacement windows, there are just as many, if not more, options for them to consider, and the selection process can be mind-numbing. One thing that is fairly straightforward to understand, would be the few types of installation options that go with window replacement. With few exceptions, every replacement window project will fall into one of these installation categories, and as you might expect, each has its unique advantages.
Replacement Window Options in Toronto
When replacing windows, there are only three main types of installation used. Full frame replacement/installation, pocket solution, and swing-out sash replacement.
- Full Frame Replacement – Most commonly used when changing the size or shape of the window.
- Pocket Solution – Quickly and easily replace the key parts of the window, without disturbing the interior or exterior trim.
- Swing out Sash – Replaces the smallest amount of the window assembly, without disturbing the frame, interior, or exterior trim.
Full frame replacement is the right choice when you intend to change the size or shape of a window. The existing window is removed, all the way down to the bare studs. Interior and exterior trim and siding are removed and, depending on the requirements of your new installation, the hole can now be re-cut or reshaped. When preparation is complete, the entire window assembly is placed into the new framing, and secured with a nailing track along the outer edge. Now, all interior trim and exterior siding and trim can be re-installed.
Pocket Solution installation is a less invasive method of replacing windows, in that the existing frame remains intact, and only the actual window assembly is replaced. As long as you intend to keep with the existing size and style of the window, this is an affordable and easy replacement window solution. The bracket trim of the old window is removed and the window properly cleaned and prepped, then the new window assembly is just lifted into place within the old frame, and secured by re-installing the bracket trim. It really is that easy.
Swing out Sash window replacement solutions are the least invasive of all, and besides accurate measurements, are a snap to install. The old sash (just the framed glass portion of the window) is removed and the existing frame and window track are cleaned and prepped. The replacement window is then simply lifted into place and settled into the existing track, then the whole assembly is re-secured.
Quick, Easy Window Replacement in Toronto
So many more factors will affect your window replacement decisions for your home in the Greater Toronto area than just the right installation for your needs. A huge selection of styles and materials, colors, and especially energy ratings. Your new windows can be ordered in a variety of frame styles and virtually limitless colors, making for a very challenging buyer’s decision, but when it comes to energy efficiency, this is where the data can become downright confusing.
The energy efficiency of your new windows can make a huge difference in your heating and cooling costs – according to Energy Star, it can be up to 15 percent – and while you have those windows all taken apart, it is always advisable to inspect the exposed areas for insulation and make sure everything is properly sealed with caulk and weather stripping. Your new windows may be top-rated for energy efficiency, but that won’t mean anything if air is simply leaking around it.
Window shape, trim style, color, configuration, and features will all affect your final choices, just as well as price, but rest assured a friendly, expert window replacement specialist can walk you through all the options to narrow down your choices into something a bit more manageable. When you’ve chosen the style, color, trim style and features of the new windows, it may be a good idea to talk with your window replacement guy about the window’s configuration.
Configuration, in essence, refers to how a window functions in regard to opening and closing. Other basic features become standard with certain types of installation, but the configuration you choose will have certain advantages or disadvantages to bear in mind.
Casement windows are one-piece windows that swing open from the side, while awning windows do the same, but swing from the top, creating a sort of glass awning when open. Hopper windows swing out from the bottom. All of these window configurations offer good energy efficiency, because unlike sliding windows, the window is pressed into the frame when closed, effectively sealing the entire assembly.
Hung, and double hung, windows slide in a track within the window’s frame, and generally allow a certain amount of air leakage that can affect the efficiency rating of the window. Double hung windows are convenient, because each separate sash slides up and down for more airflow options and easier cleaning and maintenance. Sliding windows are basically hung windows turned sideways, like a glass patio door, and have the same air leakage issues to consider as hung windows.
For obvious reasons, fixed installation, or “set” windows, are among the most energy efficient, because the do not open. There are usually a few different places in your Toronto area home where you could use this type of window to help with your heating and cooling bills.
Whatever replacement windows you decide on for your Toronto home, remember to call the qualified, knowledgeable specialists at Toronto Doors and Windows to help you make the right choices for you.
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