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Helpful Hints
Eavetrough
Problems & Cures
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Eavestrough may be one of the most
overlooked and undervalued features of our home (until, of
course, it ceases to function effectively). While its impact
on appearance is less dramatic than windows, siding or doors
it is essential to extending the life of our home.
Available in a wide variety of colours, it never needs to
be painted because the colour is baked right on. Standard
seamless eavestrough is 5 inches in width.
In the past, the common method of installation was to
insert spikes. This process did not allow for expansion and
contraction (trough expands 1/4" per 12 ft. length)
resulting in the loosening and dislodging of spikes. Today,
eavestrough is attached by brackets and screws, eliminating
this problem.
The placement and number of downspouts required varies
from application to application, however, certain factors
are taken into consideration. It is important to look at the
slope or fall of the land as well as the areas into which
the downspouts will drain (avoid walkways, basement windows
and low lying areas etc.).
Eavestrough should be cleaned twice yearly (particularly
when overhanging trees are a factor). An opportune time to
scoop out leaves and debris is in the fall while putting up
the Christmas lights. A thorough cleaning can be done in the
spring when it is more practical and convenient to use water
from the hose.
A cost effective alternative for homeowners in highly
treed areas is to install leaf screens on the eavestrough.
In our products section you will find a product called ALU_REX gutter clean system. We have found this
product to be effective and economical.
Condensation /
Causes & Cures
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Condensation occurs naturally when
warm air drops in temperature due to contact with the
cooler surfaces of windows or doors, resulting in the
formation of water droplets. This surface condensation
is an indication of excessive humidity in the air.
Older windows and doors allow air to infiltrate
through and around them which, in effect, reduces
humidity levels in the home (often resulting in the need
for a humidifier). New energy efficient window systems
are airtight. When properly installed drafts are
alleviated, however, condensation may at times become an
issue.
High humidity levels or excessive moisture in the
home can be the result of a number of household
activities; cooking, dish and clothes washing, bathing
and floor mopping. Although there is little or nothing
that can be done with the windows themselves to cut down
on surface condensation there are steps you can take to
control humidity levels.
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1) |
Turn on exhaust fans when cooking and
bathing. Make sure they vent outside. If
there are no fans, close the door and open a
window briefly, until the room clears.
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2) |
Make sure when drapes are closed they do
not fit tight to the window or floor.
Air should be able to circulate under and
around the curtains to prevent build up of
cold behind closed drapes.
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3) |
Open a window for 1/2 hour per day to
reduce the relative humidity to below 40%.
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4) |
Remove plants from window ledges and bay
or bow window seats.
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Low
"E" Glass
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Benefits of Low "e" glass & Argon
Gas
Windows allow solar energy to enter a
building providing light and heat. Almost all the sun's
energy passes through the clear glass and strikes objects in
the room where it is absorbed by furnishings, flooring and
the building itself. It is then re-radiated and given off as
heat. However, as heat flows to areas of low temperature, up
to two-thirds of this heat is lost during the heating
season, through the window glass.
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Clear Glass |
Low-E Glass |
Low E Glass
One of the newest innovations in energy efficient
windows is Low Emissivity, or Low E glass. This is glass which has an
invisible coating which reflects long wave radiation back into your home
(keeping heat in) while allowing short wave (solar) heat radiation to
enter. This helps reduce heating costs of your home in winter. By not
allowing heat to escape, the temperature of the glass inside your home is
kept warmer which reduces that cold uncomfortable feeling near
windows. Low E coatings are also known to reduce the harmful
ultraviolet rays which cause fading of interior finishes.
Argon
Argon gas is most commonly used in the ordinary
incandescent lightbulb; it is clear, non toxic, and non flammable. The space
between the two panes of glass is filled with Argon gas, because thermal
conductivity of this inert gas is lower than air. Result? Heat loss is
reduced and energy efficiency is improved. When considering the Argon gas option, ensure your
supplier is selling
you a window which has been tested and is capable of
retaining the gas once installed. A window that leaks Argon, will take
away both the thermal and monetary value of your investment. Swiggle
Seal is the only Warm Edge insulating glass system to pass the DIN
standard of Argon gas retention in North America today .
Cleaning your vinyl siding
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Vinyl siding is durable, attractive, and easy to
maintain. Like any
outdoor product, however, even low-maintenance vinyl
siding will need
attention from time to time. Don't worry! Simply follow
the cleaning and
maintenance tips in this brochure and your vinyl siding
will always look
its best.
CLEANING
How do I wash vinyl siding?
Wash vinyl siding with a soft cloth or ordinary
long-handled, soft
bristle brush. For textured surfaces, use only a soft
bristle brush to
avoid smearing stains into the grooves of the texture.
To prevent
streaking from soap and water running down the house
during cleaning,
start at the bottom of the house and work up. Rinse the
cleaning
solution with water before it dries. If your house has
brick facing,
cover the brick so that it is not affected by the
runoff.
Can I use a power washer?
Yes, though you should read the washer instructions
thoroughly before
use. When cleaning, hold the power washer straight at
eye level. Do not
aim the power washer upward, as the water may collect
behind the siding,
leak later, and produce streaks or could remain and
cause decay.
How do I remove mold and mildew?
Small spots of mold and mildew can be handled with
cleaners such as
Fantastik® or Windex®. For larger sections, a
solution of vinegar (30%)
and water (70%) has proven successful. Alternatively,
you also could try
the following solution: 1/3 cup (2 2/3 ounces) powdered
laundry
detergent (e.g., Tide®, Fab®, or equivalent), 2/3 cup (5
1/3 ounces)
powdered household cleaner (e.g., Spic & Span®, Soilax®,
or equivalent),
1 quart (32 fluid ounces) liquid laundry bleach, and 1
gallon (128 fluid
ounces) of water.
What types of cleaners should I use for other stains?
A list of commonly accepted cleaners is provided in the
box below. Be
sure to spot check any general or stain specific cleaner
before using it
on a large section of siding. After removing the stain,
rinse thoroughly
with water. Do not use cleaners containing organic
solvents, undiluted
chlorine bleach, liquid grease remover, nail polish
remover, or
furniture polish or cleaners. They can affect the
surface of the siding.
Vinyl Siding Cleaners
General cleaners (e.g., Simple Green®, Nice & Easy®,
Armor All®, etc.)
can be used to clean dirt, bird droppings, and spider
webs.
Stain-specific cleaners are listed below. Rinse all
cleaners with water
before they dry.
Before cleaning main
areas of your home try a hidden area to ensure desired
results
Stain Cleaners
Bubble Gum ---- Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®,
solution of vinegar (30%), water (70%) and Windex®
Crayon ---- Lestoil®
DAP (oil-based caulk) ----- Fantastik®
Felt-tip Pen ----- Fantastik®, water-based
cleaners
Grass ---- Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil Soap®,
Windex®
Lithium (car) Grease---- Fantastik®, Lestoil®,
Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex®
Motor Oil ----- Fantastik®, Lysol®, Murphy Oil
Soap®, Windex®
Paint ----- Brillo® Pad, Soft Scrub®
Pencil ------ Soft Scrub®
Rust ---- Fantastik®, Murphy Oil Soap®, Windex®
Tar ---- Soft Scrub®
Top Soil ----- Fantastik®, Lestoil®, Murphy Oil
Soap®
Van Rybroeck Aluminum does not endorse products or
processes and makes no warranties for the products
referenced herein. Reference to proprietary names is for
illustrative purposes only and is not intended to imply
that there are not equally effective alternatives.
NOTE: Follow precautionary labelling instructions
on all cleaning agent containers. Protect eyes, skin, and
shrubs from direct contact with cleaning agents.
The Skinny on Self Cleaning Glass
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Self-cleaning glass is an ordinary float
glass with a special
photocatalytic coating. It is made by chemically bonding and
integrating
a microscopically-thin surface layer to the exterior surface
of clear
glass. The integrated coating reacts to the sun’s
ultraviolet rays to
gradually and continuously break down organic dirt through
what is called a photocatalytic effect. In other words
photocatalytic means that the active integrated coating on
the outside of the glass absorbs the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
This causes a reaction on the surface which breaks down dirt
and loosens it from the glass. This type of glass also has
hydrophilic properties, meaning that rain flows down the
pane as a sheet, washing away the dirt instead of, as with
normal glasses, leaving the dirt behind. As a result of
these two effects, the special
self-cleaning coating keeps the glass cleaner for a longer
period than
with normal glass in applications where it is exposed to the
rain.
How it works:
--A titanium oxide coating that is integral to the glass is
applied
during the manufacturing process.
--Ultraviolet light reacts chemically with the coating to
loosen and
dissolve dirt.
--The coating causes water to spread, or sheet, slipping off
the glass
without leaving spots when rinsed by rain or a light spray
of clean water.
--The inside glass is not coated and still requires normal
cleaning.
Choosing a Contractor
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Hiring a Contractor
At some time, most homeowners will hire someone for
repairs or renovations. Even a homeowner experienced in home
repairs may have to hire a contractor or renovator because
of the size or level of difficulty of the job. This fact
sheet will help you choose a contractor and work effectively
and fairly with the contractor to achieve the results you
desire.
Who Do You Hire?
Once you have decided to renovate and know, or at least
have a good idea of, what you want, choosing a contractor or
renovator is a crucial decision. It’s not something you
should rush into.
The contractor you hire should have the technical,
business and interpersonal skills, the tools and the
experience needed to do the job you want done. Hire a
contractor who has experience with projects similar to
yours. This contractor will know what materials and
techniques are needed for your work; and even better, about
problems with similar work — and how to solve them. For
large renovation projects, you can hire a renovator to take
charge of the whole job since many renovation contracting
companies are set up to handle both design and renovation
work.
Finding and Choosing a Contractor
Start by looking for a few suitable contractors. A good
source of referrals may be a family member, friend, or
neighbour who has had similar work completed. They can tell
you about the dependability of the contractors they worked
with, the quality of the work and their overall experience
with that company.
Discuss your project with a few potential contractors to
get their advice and suggestions on how they would do the
work. At the first meeting, some may give you a rough
estimate of costs, depending on the project’s scope and
complexity. The first meeting is usually more to get to know
the contractor and the contractor’s work
You want to find out as much as you can, so ask a lot of
questions, such as:
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How long have you been in business?
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What work are you, or your subcontractors, licensed
to do, e.g., electrical, plumbing? What kind of work do
you specialize in?
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Have you done a similar job before?
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Will you use your own crew for the work or will you
subcontract all or part of the job?
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How would you handle a specific problem related to
this project
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How and when do you clean up, particularly fine
dust?
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What work schedule will you follow?
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What kind of warranty do you offer and what does it
cover?
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Do you carry workers’ compensation and liability
insurance?
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Will you provide a written contract?
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Will you take out all required permits (e.g.,
building, plumbing, electrical)?
You won’t offend reputable firms with questions. If a
contractor doesn’t seem to know much about the technical
details of the job or doesn’t want to talk about them, you
may have the wrong contractor.
If the contractor plans to do the whole job alone, make
sure he or she has all the necessary skills and
qualifications.
Most importantly, be sure you can get along with the
contractor. If you cannot communicate effectively with the
contractor, things can get very tense in a lengthy project.
You want a contractor who will explain what’s going on as
the project takes shape, who will discuss problems
reasonably and who will work with you to make the result as
good as it can be.
You also want someone who’s willing and able to help you
refine your plans where possible, resulting in a more
desirable and cost-effective project. A contractor who is
knowledgeable about the type of work you’re doing should be
able to suggest ways to get what you want and meet your
budget.
Getting Estimates or Proposals
How many estimates do you need? There are no hard and
fast rules here. Some consumers prefer to get a number of
bids before making a decision. Others find that after the
interview process, there is one contractor they strongly
prefer and only ask that contractor to submit a formal
written estimate or proposal. What really matters is that
you end up feeling that you have adequate information to
make the right choice of contractor. As a general rule, with
the proper drawings and specifications, three estimates will
usually provide sufficient information for you to make a
decision.
Even with a small project, a set of written
specifications is needed. Be as specific as you can: what
type of flooring, what kind and brand of doors and windows,
what kind of finishes you want.
For a large project, it can take two to three weeks for a
contractor to prepare an estimate. Ask the contractor to
submit it in person so you can discuss the estimate with
them. Compare the estimate carefully and make sure that
everything you ask for is in the estimate. It should include
everything that the contractor will have to do to complete
the job. Assume that anything not listed is not included in
the price. As well, make sure the contractor provides you
with a construction schedule.
In some cases, a contractor will give you a “fixed price”
quote. A fixed price includes all the materials, labour,
equipment and fees, plus contingencies, overhead and profit.
In some cases allowances are established for items which you
have yet to select, e.g., flooring and light fixtures. The
allowance, which is only an estimate, is later adjusted once
you have made your final selection.
Don’t automatically choose the contractor who gives
the lowest estimate. It may be unrealistically low. The
contractor may not have understood the project, may be
underestimating what it will take to complete the work, or
simply trying to get a price advantage over the competitors.
In any case, you could risk unexpected and additional costs,
or you may end up with a job that leaves you unsatisfied.
Look for a fair price. Factor in any differences in what
the contractors are offering and the skills they bring to
the job. Then add the intangibles: reputation, willingness
to make suggestions and offer advice, the likelihood of
standing behind the work. Choose the contractor you feel
will give you the best overall value for your money.
Get it in Writing
Do not be tempted by a contractor who doesn’t have an
address, doesn’t want a written contract and offers a
discount if you pay cash. This type of underground economy
transaction involves many risks and pitfalls that offset any
savings to the homeowner.
For example, contractors who insist on cash may be
unlicensed and uninsured; and without a written contract
your cash advances are unprotected. They could neglect to
get the required permits or inspections. Product warranties
may not be valid if a recognized contractor does not install
the items.
As well, an underground contractor may do poor work and
create health and safety problems. If one of the
contractor’s crew is improperly trained, is injured on the
job or damages your property or a neighbour’s property, your
homeowner’s insurance policy might not cover you and you
could be liable.
A cash deal may leave you with no legal recourse if
something goes wrong or the work isn’t satisfactory, or if
the contractor walks off the job without finishing it. In
fact, it makes it difficult for you to prove the contractor
was ever there. And after you have paid the contractor, you
may find that materials haven’t been paid for or workers
haven’t been paid — and you are responsible for the bills.
For your own protection and peace of mind, it’s best to deal
in a legal and responsible way — always get it in writing.
The Contract
A detailed written contract between you and the
contractor you hire is essential to any renovation or home
repair project, no matter its size. Even the smallest job
should be put in writing.
Professional contractors offer a warranty on their work
and will come back if something goes wrong.
Working with your Contractor
Once the job is under way, you’ll see a lot of your
contractor and the crew. The job will go much better if
there is mutual respect and you co-operate with them. Talk
with the contractor, so you know what’s going on and what
might be needed from you — an empty driveway so the delivery
van can bring in the new bathtub, for example. But don’t
call every five minutes. Make a list of your questions and
save them for a time which you are both available.
In spite of a clear, detailed contract, disputes can, and
occasionally do, arise for any number of reasons. Good
communication can go a long way in settling any
disagreements between you and your contractor. As a first
step, you should sit down together to discuss the problem
calmly and seek a solution that you both can live with
comfortably. This is usually the fastest, least expensive
and ultimately, most satisfactory approach.
Try to be reasonable. Don’t overreact if something is
wrong. Allow sufficient time for a response. As well, things
the contractor can’t control, like bad weather and
backordered components, can delay the job, so leave a little
leeway in your schedule for them.
About Insurance
It’s important to make sure the contractor has workers’
compensation and third-party liability insurance for all the
people on the job and damage they may cause ($2 million is
standard, this may not be the case in rural areas). Your
local Home Builders’ Association is a good source of
information for what is standard in your area. Don’t just
take the contractor’s word — ask to see a certificate and
check to make sure it’s current. Don’t accept or assume any
liability for the contractor or trades people.
As for your liability, your homeowner’s insurance policy
may cover you during a project done by a renovator but you
should always advise your insurance provider of any
renovation work ahead of time. However, if you’re acting as
your own general contractor and employing trades people,
your policy won’t automatically cover you. You’ll have to
ask your insurance company for temporary coverage, which
will likely involve a small extra premium. Again, make sure
any trades people you hire have their own insurance.
When to replace windows
( Back To Top)
Windows not only impact the appearance of
your home they also provide natural lighting, ventilation
and can be a means of emergency escape. If your windows are
more than 15 years old they may be in need of replacement.
There are a few determining factors
that will let you know when your windows need to be
replaced. Listed below are signs that you should
watch for to make sure that your windows remain
effective.
Condensation or frost buildup
Drafts- If you can feel air coming in through a closed
window, your
windows need replacement
Window needs Support to Stay open- If you use a book or
wood to prop
open your windows, you're windows should be replaced
Candles do not stay lit near a closed window- Although
you may not feel
the draft, this could be a sign that your weather
stripping is gone.
Appearance- If you are unhappy with the appearance of
your windows or
they show signs of deterioration, they should be
replaced
Vinyl Replacement Windows Benefits
Save on Heating and Cooling Costs
No Painting or Staining Required
Extremely Durable and Long Lasting
Economical
Easily Customized
Wide Selection of Styles
Easily and Quickly Installed
Windows, manufactured from Vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), are the
most prevalent material in use today and represent the
largest market
share in the Window remodeling business.
Highly Energy Efficient
Windows made from vinyl are strong and provide very good
energy savings
having moderate to high R-values meaning that they are
resistant to heat
flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance
and the higher
their energy efficiency which in the long run will save
you in heating
and cooling costs.
Economical and an Assortment of Styles
Vinyl Windows are one of the least expensive choices and
they come in a
wide range of prices. There really is a product
available for every
budget. This makes the installation process fairly quick
thus reducing
the cost of installation in your home.
In addition, you can choose from many different colors,
which is
actually part of the vinyl which makes them essentially
scratch
resistant. The only down side is that once you choose
the color, you
cannot change it. Vinyl Windows are not made of a
material that can be
painted.
Easily Customizable
They can be easily customized and are available in a
wide range of
styles, shapes and sizes. And you will have your choice
of color as
stated above.
Maintenance Free
These units never need to be scraped, painted, or
stained. They are also
almost 100% scratch free. Your windows whatever their
age, will always
look great!
Whether you are looking for esthetic reasons, energy
efficiency, costs,
or ease of maintenance, vinyl replacement windows are
clearly your best
way to go.
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