Selecting the Right Type of Windows with Global BC

Whether you are building a new home or replacing the old, cold, and drafty windows in your existing home, there are a number of important things to consider before you sign on the dotted line.

Rapid advances in window technology & innovative manufacturing processes have made a wide range of window options available for today’s builders & homeowners. In the latest segment with Global BC Open House, the team visits Centra Windows and learns how to select the right type of window relating to appearance, function, energy performance, and cost.

If you're a homeowner, how do you know if you're losing a ton of heat?

There can be a few observations that anyone can make on their home and existing windows that will be indicators of heat loss. Probably the number one issue would be condensation on the frame while the second issue would be feeling drafts. 

What does a homeowner have to look for and keep in mind when these potential issues come up?

Condensation is not just an indicator of heat loss, it also results in mould and mildew growth on the interior finishes of a window and the drafts will make a home less comfortable. Both of these lead to a home that can be less healthy. 

So if you want to improve heat retention/loss through windows, what should homeowners be thinking of?

Upgrading the building envelope is like putting on layers before you go out in the winter. The sweater is the insulator and the Gor-Tex keeps the water and cold air out. When you improve your home with better-insulated glass, thermally improved window frames and draft proofing, not only do you improve the energy efficiency of the home but you make it more comfortable at the same time. 

Should homeowners be replacing all of the windows to tackle a potential issue?

The simple answer to this is yes, but it’s not always required. However, the issues with old windows in a home likely exist on all of the windows. By upgrading all of your windows at one time, the overall cost per window will come down and you will optimize the efficiency of your home as well. There is also a government rebate available through FortisBC and BC Hydro, that will help offset some of the costs for higher performance windows.

These programs are not always around so it is good to take advantage of them while they are here.  

What kind of differences do windows make - Cost savings, energy bills, and year-round comfort?

New windows don’t just make your home warmer in the winter, but with the glass coating technology, they can make your home cooler in the summer. The LoE coatings that we use reflect heat back to its source resulting in energy savings in the winter, and if you have air conditioning, energy savings in the summer. The main benefit of a more energy-efficient home is a more comfortable home.

We are your certified Window Geeks

Centra Windows is not only the manufacturer but also the installer of its product, which enables us to offer a full warranty, eliminating any confusion between product performance and installation. We view the house as a system and understand how each of the elements must work correctly to maximize the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Contact our local Employee Owners at 1-888-534-3333 or send us an email at info@centra.ca for more information about this topic and many more. You can also sign up for our biweekly newsletter for all the tips and tricks about the window industry.