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Why should I renovate with Durabuilt?

Durabuilt Windows & Doors is a local Edmonton based company that employs over 400 staff members. We are a CSA Certified manufacturer and Energy Star partner. We have over 25 years experience and back our products with a competitive warranty and local service teams. As a family-run business, we value our customer’s satisfaction and pride ourselves on providing quality products at a competitive price.

How Do I Know If I Need New Windows And Doors?

It’s sometimes difficult to tell when you need to replace or update your windows and doors. To help, here are a number of indicators that you might need new windows or doors in your home:

  • Cool drafts or warm spots around the frame indicate your windows are allowing air to come into or escape your home. Windows should block drafts and preserve energy within the household.
  • If your windows are peeling, the aluminum is frail, or the glass is cracked, that is a very good indication that it is time to consider replacing them with new Durabuilt Windows & Doors.
  • Frost or ice build-up happens when inadequate insulation or poor thermal material allows too quick of a transition from hot to cold air to occur. As condensation continuously builds up over time, it can cause ice and frost to form on the windows. This is a strong indication that you might need new windows with proper insulation. Proper insulation also has the benefit of helping to reduce the sound of disturbances outside.
  • Poor operation of opening, closing, or propping a window open indicates it is time to put in new smooth operating windows from Durabuilt. Rotting, bowing, and warping around a doorframe not only pose functionality issues, but can also affect the integrity of the door itself. This then poses an unnecessary security risk to you and your family.
  • Skyrocketing heating and cooling costs are also one of the best reasons to look at making home improvements – including window and door replacements.

The Differences Between Dual and Triple Pane Windows

Dual Pane

All Durabuilt windows come with dual pane insulating glass as a standard (two individual pieces of glass separated by a sealed airspace). Installing new dual pane windows with our high-performance PVC frames will significantly improve your window & doors performance; especially when old single pane metal systems were previously in place.


Triple Pane

Triple pane insulating glass (three individual pieces of glass separated by two sealed airspaces) provides added performance benefits, especially in extreme climates, as it features additional glass and airspace for improved insulation. All of our Casement Collection windows support triple pane glass as well as selection of our slider series.


Simulations performed by Enermodal Engineering Ltd. using window 5.2 and Therm 5.2 as per NFRC100-2001. Outside temperature -17.8°C, inside temperature 21.1°C. Double-glazed Low-E glass with argon fill. Temperature results shown are average temperatures. [Test Reports EIG10009w, Oct. 15, 2010 – doubles and EIG11001w, Dec. 9, 2010 – triples.] Keff is per NFRC 101-2010.


Save on Energy Cost

Durabuilt’s triple pane windows deliver superior air-tightness and protection, preventing winter heat loss and summer heat gain. The dual seal combination keeps the entire glass surface warmer / cooler, especially on the inside, which helps retain energy. As a result, triple pane windows can insulate up to 60%* better than their dual pane counterparts.

* Study based on a double and triple pane window comparison under controlled circumstances featuring Super Spacer ® and Low E Glass with argon.


Reduce Noise & Improve Comfort

In today’s housing market, neighbours and distractions are often in close proximity. Triple pane windows are equally as effective at blocking unwanted noise as they are in retaining energy. By trapping sound waves in the first chamber and keeping cool drafts outside, your home will become the tranquil haven you long for.


Reduce Condensation

Triple pane insulating glass can improve your relative humidity levels (the point before surface condensation occurs) by almost double due to warmer window surface temperatures. Triple pane is highly recommended if you live in a cold dry climate and desire more moisture and humidity in the home.


 

The Benefits of Low E Glass Windows

Of all the options and accessories to consider for your windows, the most important is really the most obvious, the glass. Accounting for up to 80% of a window’s real-estate, glass can make or break the overall performance of your system.

Durabuilt offers two high performance Low E Glass solutions, Sungate® 400 and Solarban® 60 with argon fill. Both offer performance enhancing benefits for year round comfort and savings:


Keeps the Heat Inside

Both Low E options will significantly reduce the amount of heat lost through your windows to help save on your heating energy costs. Lower U-values and higher R-values are an indication of greater performing windows.


Controls Solar Energy

The most unique attribute between our two Low E offerings is the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) or the amount of solar heat gain through the glass relative to the incident solar radiation (equal to 86% of the Shading Coefficient). Higher SHGC numbers provide natural energy in the winter to reduce heating costs, while lower numbers block heat gain in the summer to reduce cooling costs.


Clear Appearance

Visible Light Transmittance is the percentage of visible light that passes through a glass product. Durabuilt’s Low E glass solutions are highly transparent providing an aesthetically pleasing interior / exterior appearance similar to clear glass.


Fade Protection

Shading Coefficient is the ratio of total solar energy that passes through, relative to standard clear glass. Low E coatings block damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays to help protect your fabrics, furniture and carpets from fading.

Choosing the Right Low E Glass

Argon Gas is a colourless inert gas that is injected in the airspace of your insulating glass unit to improve energy efficiency. Argon is recommended with both Low E glass solutions and is a minimum requirement to meet Energy Star criteria.

Durabuilt Low E Glass Performance


Note: Tdw-ISO represents potential fading damage caused by both UV and visible light. It is considered by the U.S. Department of Energy and the International Standards Organization (ISO) to be a more accurate barometer of fade resistance than UV transmittance alone. All comparisons are center of glass based on an insulating unit containing 3/4″ insulating units; two 1/8″ (3mm) glass lights and a 1/2″ (12mm) air-filled space for the standard clear insulating glass and argon gas-filled space for the Sungate® 400 and Solarban 60 insulating glass. Actual glass performance may differ due to glass thickness, gas fill and glass to frame ratio. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is a ratio of how much solar heat is transmitted through the glass compared to 1/8″ (3mm) thick clear glass. (Lower numbers mean less summer heat). Figures may vary due to manufacturing tolerances. All tabulated data are based on the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) methodology, using the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s Window 5.2 software.


Durabuilt Overall Glass Performance

* Figures may vary due to manufacturing tolerances and controlled circumstances. The number in brackets indicates the position of the protective Low E coating; multiple numbers indicates a double application. All tabulated results are based on the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) methodology, using the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s Window 4.1 software.

* Comparisons are based on centre of glass measurements against a clear 3/4″ insulating glass units; two 1/8″ (3mm) glass panes and a 1/2″ (12mm) air space. Actual glass performance may differ slightly due to glass thickness, gas fill, and glass to frame ratio. Clear glass allows 81% of visible light.

Get Grants & Rebates on Your Windows

Durabuilt Windows & Doors provides energy efficient, high quality products that will improve the comfort, look and value of your home. In addition to ongoing savings, energy efficient home improvements and building practices may also help you qualify for government grants and rebate programs.

To find out what incentives are available nationally you can visit National Resources Canada.

Complementary regional programs and provincial grants are also available. Click here for more information.

The requirements and qualifications will vary by program, but there are a few common guidelines of how things often work and the required steps to access a government grant.


Registration

Participants may have register with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) at oee.nrcan.gc.ca/register or 1 800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) prior to starting your process. Always investigate the requirements before beginning your project.


Pre-Retrofit Evaluation

For renovations you will likely have to hire a certifi­ed energy advisor (licensed by NRCan) to perform an in-home evaluation before improvements begin. If your home has already been evaluated in the last few years, a new pre-retrofit evaluation may not be required.

Note: you can book your Durabuilt consultation and order windows and doors prior to your pre-evaluation to guarantee an installation date. It is important however, to schedule and complete your pre-retrofit evaluation prior to the actual renovation work.


Retrofit and Build with Receipts

Once you choose, purchase and install eligible products, participates must always retain and present receipts to access any government grant or rebate


Retain your Durabuilt Labels

Once you complete your project, be sure to retain all of your window and door labels that confirm your products meet the Energy Star requirements for your zone.


Post-Retrofit Evaluation

Typically you will also need to do a post-retrofit evaluation, to verify that eligible upgrades were purchased. Once this is complete, your energy advisor will prepare the proper documentation and often submit the claim. You’ll need to verify this with your evaluation company.

How ENERGY STAR® Means Energy Efficiency

ENERGY STAR® is the international symbol for energy efficiency and an important consideration when building green and accessing government grants and incentive programs. Durabuilt is a proud volunteer partner of the ENERGY STAR® program and makes buying qualified windows and doors easy from the selection process, through to proof of purchase. Here’s how it works:  

1. Find Your Climate Zone


 

The ENERGY STAR® program divides the country into four climate zones based on annual average temperature. Zone 1 is the mildest and Zone 3 is the coldest.

Visit http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/ to find your town’s specific zone.

By installing energy efficient windows and doors in your home you can reduce energy costs by 7-12% or more*.
* ENERGY STAR® statistic based on controlled testing

 

2. Choose Windows & Doors that Qualify for that Zone


Once you determine your qualifying zone, you must select your windows, doors and performance options to meet that zone’s criteria. Low E with argon is a minimum requirement of the ENERGY STAR® program. Durabuilt windows can be configured to meet the most stringent ENERGY STAR® zones, especially our Casement Window Collections. To identify the qualifying zone of your windows:

a) Reference our Product Performance Charts

b) Visit http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca

c) Check your Durabuilt quote / order summary

d) Ask your Durabuilt Sales Consultant for more information

3. Retain Your Labels Upon Installation

As part of the new ENERGY STAR® program Durabuilt has implemented a labeling system that clearly summarizes your window’s CSA and ENERGY STAR® information. This includes the zone for which the product qualifies – 1, 2, 3 – along with the relevant performance data including the U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Energy Rating. It is important that you keep these labels for each product purchased as they can be used to qualify for government grants and incentives, as well as our warranty program.

ENERGY STAR® Requirements for Windows

 

 

 

 

Energy Efficiency: It All Adds Up

Durabuilt window and door systems are built to withstand extreme weather variation and meet the most stringent Energy Star requirements. Not just one component makes our windows and doors energy efficient, but rather all of them work together as a cohesive unit, making our products the best in the industry.

Window Performance

  1. High Performance PVC and Hybrid Frames
    Fully extruded multi-chamber profiles provide barriers for cool air and moisture to enter the home.
  2. Solar Control Low E Glass
    Low-E is a specialized window coating that acts as a virtual gate, permitting and deflecting solar energy.
  3. Triple Pane Glass
    Triple pane windows improve comfort, help save on energy costs and reduce noise in the home.
  4. All Foam Super Spacer ®
    Durabuilt uses the premium all foam, no-metal Super Spacer ® in all our windows.

Durabuilt Window Performance

 

All About Window Condensation

It is important to know that windows do not cause condensation, they simply provide a visible surface for it. Here is an overview of common causes and remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Condensation?

Condensation is the point in which moist air turns into a liquid when surface temperatures fall below the “dew point” of the room. When warm air comes into contact with a cool surface, such as a window, condensation occurs.

What Causes Condensation?

Above average levels of humidity in a home will result in condensation. Window glass traditionally has a low surface temperature thus producing the first signs of condensation

Both new and older homes that do not comply with current building codes can also experience condensation in attics, inside exterior walls and within floors and ceilings.

Why Am I Experiencing Condensation With My New Windows?

A properly installed, new window will make your home more energy efficient, as it provides an air-tight seal. Original drafty windows commonly allow excess humidity and heat to escape, whereas your new windows provide a warmer surface for condensation to occur. Causes of condensation can include humidity levels that are too high, uneven heat distribution throughout the home and poor circulation around your new windows and doors.

How Do I Minimise Humidity and Condensation? 

Increase ventilation and control the source of excess moisture. You can mitigate humidity causing factors by performing regular maintenance, acquiring the services of a qualified inspector, installing a humidistat or by purchasing an inexpensive hygrometer that will measure the relative humidity in your home.

Causes of Surface Condensation

Windows

   

Visible Indication Possible Causes
Condensation on inside surface of inside pane High humidity
Sudden drop in temperature
Condensation on upper storey windows only Cool air leaking to lower level or storey windows only warm air leaking from upper level
Condensation on window frame Air leakage window frame
Rough opening space
Poor weather stripping

 

Doors

Visible Indication  Possible Causes
Condensation on door frame or threshold Air leakage around door
Condensation on lock, knob or hinges Air infiltration due to negative pressure inside

Walls

 

Visible Indication Possible Causes
Condensation on closet Poor air circulation around clothes
Condensation and staining below window Melted window condensation
Window in humid area
Mould on wall High humidity
Poor ventilation / circulation
Stains on celling Frost build-up melting in attic
Leaking roof
Bulging, buckled or rotting siding Warm moist, inside air leaking through break in barrier
Missing flashing, wind-driven rain penetrating wall cladding

How to Reduce Surface Condensation

Windows & Doors

• Replace or adjust weather stripping
• Replace exterior doors with new energy efficient models
• Replace your windows with CSA approved & Energy Star rated products
• Add fresh air duct to your heating system

Bathrooms

• Open windows after showering
• Install a ceiling vent exhausting outside
• Close the bathroom door when using the shower or bathtub
• Properly insulate walls and ceilings
• Use moisture proof paint or wallpaper

Kitchen

• Open windows to release stale, humid air and allow fresh dry air to enter
• Operate vented exhaust over oven range when cooking
• Install a ceiling fan
• Trim cupboard doors so air can circulate

Living Areas

• Seal light fixtures and insulate attic hatch
• Exhaust all vents to the exterior
• Install and seal a chimney fire stop

Exterior Walls

• Add insulation to wall cavity
• Run furnace fan continuously
• Install or repair flashing to direct rain away from the wall
• Caulk exterior siding corners, window brickmoulds, etc.
• Seal and insulate basement walls

Recommended Humidity Levels

Outside AirTemperature in 0C Relative Humidity withInside Temperature of 200C
-30° or below Not over 20°%
-24° to -18° Not over 25%
-18° to -120 Not over 30%
-12° to -6V Not over 35%
-6° to 0° Not over 40%

 

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