Owner, Bradley Wiebe has been installing windows and doors in Saskatoon and area for over 10 years. They only install Canadian manufactured windows and doors. These products are built for the Saskatchewan climate. Brad takes pride in ensuring that his client’s windows and doors are installed correctly and that quality products are being used. Here is their latest Saskatoon windows and door tip. When considering different window options for energy efficiency in Saskatchewan, casement windows are a good choice. Wiebe Windows & More are Trusted Saskatoon Windows & Door Experts!

Why casement windows are worth considering 

WHAT ARE CASEMENT WINDOWS? WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER THEM?

Casement windows are a type of window that opens outward on hinges, similar to a door. They are hinged on one side and typically operated by a crank or lever mechanism, allowing them to swing open and close easily. Here are some key features and benefits of casement windows:

1. Energy Efficiency: Casement windows offer excellent energy efficiency. When closed, they create a tight seal against the window frame, minimizing air leakage and reducing drafts. The sash of a casement window presses against the frame, providing a superior seal compared to other window types. This helps in preventing heat loss during cold winters and heat gain during hot summers.

2. Ventilation: Casement windows are known for their excellent ventilation capabilities. When fully opened, they allow maximum airflow into the room since the entire window opening is unobstructed. The outward opening design catches the breeze and directs it into the room, providing effective natural ventilation. This is particularly beneficial in areas with limited cross-ventilation or for rooms that require increased airflow.

3. Easy Operation and Cleaning: Casement windows are easy to operate with the use of a crank or lever mechanism. They open and close smoothly, making them suitable for hard-to-reach places or for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, the outward-opening design makes it easier to clean.

5. Versatility: Casement windows can be installed individually or combined in groups to create custom window configurations. They are the option to meet egress code for bedrooms and can be combined with a fixed section of windows to allow more light into your room.

6. Security: Casement windows offer good security features. The hook-shaped locks embedded in the window frame provide a high level of resistance against forced entry when the window is closed and locked. Additionally, the hinges are typically installed on the interior side of the window, making it difficult for intruders to tamper with the hardware from the outside.

Overall, casement windows are a popular choice for homeowners seeking energy efficiency, ventilation, unobstructed views, and ease of operation. However, it's essential to ensure proper installation and regular maintenance to maintain their performance and longevity. Consulting with Wiebe window professionals can help you determine if casement windows are the right choice for your specific needs and home requirements.

Wiebe Windows & More - Services & Info:

Owner, Bradley Wiebe has been installing windows and doors in Saskatoon and area for over 10 years. They only install Canadian manufactured windows and doors. These products are built for the Saskatchewan climate. Brad takes pride in ensuring that his client’s windows and doors are installed correctly and that quality products are being used. Here is their latest Saskatoon windows and door tip. When considering different window options for energy efficiency in Saskatchewan, here are some popular choices to consider. Wiebe Windows & More are Trusted Saskatoon Windows & Door Experts!

Popular Choices of Energy-Efficient Windows

When considering different window options for energy efficiency in Saskatchewan, here are some popular choices to consider:

1. Dual-pane Windows: Dual-pane windows consist of two layers of glass with an insulating space between them. This space is typically filled with air or inert gas like argon, which helps reduce heat transfer. Dual-pane windows are a more cost effective option for energy efficiency and can provide significant insulation benefits compared to single-pane windows but are still not the best option for our cold winters.

2. Triple-pane Windows: Triple-pane windows offer even better insulation than double-pane windows. They have three layers of glass with two insulating spaces between them, filled with gas. The additional pane and insulating layers enhance the window's thermal performance, reducing heat loss or gain. Triple-pane windows are especially beneficial in extremely cold climates like Saskatchewan.

3. Low-E Coatings: Low-emissivity (low-E) coatings are thin, transparent layers applied to window glass to minimize the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that can pass through. These coatings help regulate heat transfer, reflecting heat back into the room during winter and blocking it during summer. Low-E coatings can be used in combination with dual-pane or triple-pane windows to enhance their energy efficiency.

4. Gas Fills: Inert gas like argon are sometimes used to fill the spaces between the glass panes in energy-efficient windows. This gas has higher insulating properties than air, reducing heat conduction and improving energy efficiency. Gas-filled windows are particularly effective in climates with extreme temperatures.

5. Window Frames: While the glass itself plays a significant role in energy efficiency, the window frames also impact insulation. Older wood and aluminum windows are not as energy efficient as the new vinyl or metal clad windows.

6. Window Orientation: Consider the orientation of your windows in relation to the sun's path. South-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight, so having windows with low solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC) can help reduce heat gain during hot summers. North-facing windows are generally less affected by direct sunlight and can prioritize insulation to minimize heat loss.

When selecting windows, look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which signifies that the windows meet specific energy efficiency guidelines. Consulting with window professionals or contractors can also provide valuable insights into the best window options for your specific needs and budget.

Wiebe Windows & More - Services & Info:

Owner, Bradley Wiebe has been installing windows and doors in Saskatoon and area for over 10 years. They only install Canadian manufactured windows and doors. These products are built for the Saskatchewan climate. Brad takes pride in ensuring that his client’s windows and doors are installed correctly and that quality products are being used. In their latest Saskatoon windows and door tip they discuss why energy-efficient windows are important in Saskatchewan. Wiebe Windows & More are Trusted Saskatoon Windows & Door Experts!

Energy-Efficient Windows are Essential in Saskatchewan

They save energy and reduce utility costs. Saskatchewan experiences long, cold winters and hot summers, making proper insulation and energy efficiency crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and minimizing heating and cooling expenses. 

Here are some reasons why energy-efficient windows are a must in Saskatchewan:

1. Improved Insulation: Energy-efficient windows are designed with advanced insulation features such as low-e coatings, triple panes, and argon gas between the panes. These features help reduce heat transfer through the windows, keeping warm air inside during winters and preventing heat gain during summers.

2. Reduced Heating and Cooling Costs: By minimizing heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer, energy-efficient windows help reduce the reliance on heating and cooling systems. As a result, you can save on your energy bills by lowering the energy consumption required to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

3. Enhanced Comfort: Energy-efficient windows create a more comfortable indoor environment by reducing drafts, cold spots, and heat transfer. They help maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home, allowing you to enjoy a cozy living space during harsh winter conditions.

4. Condensation Control: Energy-efficient windows are designed to minimize condensation build-up on the interior surface of the glass. By reducing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the window, these windows help control condensation, which can lead to mold growth and damage if left unchecked.

5. Environmental Benefits: Energy-efficient windows not only benefit homeowners but also contribute to a greener environment. By reducing energy consumption, they help lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with power generation, thus mitigating climate change.

When choosing energy-efficient windows in Saskatchewan, look for the ENERGY STAR® certification, which ensures the windows meet or exceed strict energy performance standards. It's also advisable to consider factors like the window's U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), air leakage ratings, and proper installation to maximize energy savings.

Investing in energy-efficient windows is a wise choice for homeowners in Saskatchewan, as they offer long-term energy savings, improved comfort, and a positive environmental impact.

Wiebe Windows & More - Services & Info:

Owner, Bradley Wiebe has been installing windows and doors in Saskatoon and area for over 10 years. They only install Canadian manufactured windows and doors. These products are built for the Saskatchewan climate. Brad takes pride in ensuring that his client’s windows and doors are installed correctly and that quality products are being used. In their latest Saskatoon windows and door tip they share some info from an article by Plygem on going green. Wiebe Windows & More are Trusted Saskatoon Windows & Door Experts!

IS IT TIME FOR YOU TO GO GREEN?

ENERGY STAR® is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR® symbol helps consumers quickly and easily identify major appliances and other energy-using equipment that save energy. Products that display the ENERGY STAR® symbol have been tested according to prescribed procedures and have been found to meet or exceed higher energy efficiency levels without compromising performance.

By choosing ENERGY STAR® qualified products, buyers save energy and money on utility bills, and reduce air pollution without sacrificing the features, versatility or style they expect from high-performing products. With our sixty-seven-year presence in the Canadian marketplace, our windows and doors have been proudly wearing the ENERGY STAR® symbol for many years and we continue to strive to develop energy-efficient products to allow our customers to save money in energy costs; while not compromising on aesthetics.

To find out more about ENERGY STAR® in Canada, please visit: http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/products/energystar/about/12529

Canada has been divided into three climate zones based on annual average temperature. Zone 1 is the mildest and Zone 3 is the coldest.

Wiebe Windows & More owner  Bradley Wiebe has been installing windows and doors in Saskatoon and area for over 10 years. They only install Canadian manufactured windows and doors. These products are built for the Saskatchewan climate. Wiebe Windows & More are Trusted Saskatoon Windows & Door, Experts share a window tip on prevention condensation. 

Are your windows weeping? Are you struggling with condensation? 

Have you noticed that the windows in your home are continually fogging up? Does it seem like they are collecting moisture? This isn’t necessarily your windows’ fault. In fact, window condensation may be an indicator of something entirely different. Your foggy windows may be an indicator that you need to reduce indoor humidity before it causes hidden, costly problems elsewhere in your home like peeling paint, rotting wood, buckling floors, insulation deterioration, mildew, even moisture spots on ceilings and walls.

Do windows cause condensation?

No. Windows do not cause condensation. But, windows are often the first place where condensation can be seen. Think about it. You’re probably not surprised or concerned when your bathroom mirror becomes fogged. You expect it after a hot shower. Your car windows fog up in humid weather or in winter when you have several passengers. These are just a few examples. And although condensation usually occurs in cold weather, it can occur during humid months when air conditioning is running. The mirror doesn’t cause the condensation. The car windows don’t cause it either. These are just the first places you actually see condensation. Check your bathroom walls after a shower – you’ll see condensation there, too. Run your finger along the wall. You’ll see water on your finger, and you’ll see the trail of your finger through the condensation on the wall.The same is true for the windows in your home.  

What does cause condensation?

Condensation forms when warm, humid air contacts a cold surface. Moisture is in the air all around us. Warmer air can hold more moisture. As air cools, it contracts (just as people pull their arms and clothing tight around them when chilled) and its moisture condense. When the temperature drops, the first place you will see any condensation is on the windows. Your windows are the coldest surfaces indoors. During colder months, indoor air is much warmer and holds more moisture than outdoor air, which is colder and dry. Warm, humid indoor air cools and contracts as it contacts the cooler windows, and the moisture condenses on the glass.

How to reduce window condensation by controlling and improving ventilation

1. Leave blinds and/or drapes open as wide as possible at night and open all window coverings during the day. This will increase the warm air circulation over the cool surface and increase the temperature of the glass. 

2. Check the furnace filter and replace if dirty. A dirty furnace filter will reduce the output of the furnace fan. A clean filter will ensure maximum flow. 

3. Turn your humidifier off during the winter and anytime the temperature falls below 0 degrees C. 

4. Always turn on the bathroom fan when bathing or showering. The best results are achieved when the fan is ducted directly to the outside. Humidistat controlled fans which automatically turn on when the humidity exceeds the setting on the switch is also available. Running the fan will also reduce the fogging of bathroom mirrors. 

5. Always turn on the range fan when cooking. For best results, make certain the fan is ducted directly to the outside. 

6. Ensure your clothes drier is properly ducted to the outside, no air leakage is present in the duct, and the duct is free of all blockages. Avoid hanging clothes indoors to dry. 

7. Ensure fresh air intake for the furnace is free of all blockages. If your house has no fresh air intake to the furnace, have one installed. 

8. Ensure all hot and cold air registers are clear of any obstruction as this could affect maximum air circulation. Avoid the use of air deflectors. Air deflectors directed towards a window can result in thermal cracks in the glass. 

9. Install ceiling fans in locations where heat registers are not located close to the windows. The increase in air flow will definitely help reduce condensation on these windows. Ceiling fans should be run continuously in houses where the relative humidity is above recommended levels. 

10. Floors wet from mopping can add large amounts of moisture. Run exhaust fans while floors are wet and avoid washing floors on cold days. 

11. Wipe up any excess snow or moisture tracked into the house. The evaporation of the moisture will result in an increase in the relative humidity level. 

12. Run your furnace fan continuously. Most furnaces are equipped with a switch which allows the furnace fan to operate even when the furnace is not producing heat. If your furnace is not equipped with this type of switch, have one installed. 

13. Open doors and windows periodically to allow the dry air outside to replace the moist air inside. 

14. Ensure there are no leaks in the water pipes or drains. 

15. Ensure window and door frames are caulked where they meet the exterior finish of the house. This reduces the possibility of cold air infiltration which may lower the inside temperature of the window or door. 

16. Remove interior screens in the winter to allow for better ventilation over the window surface. Screens will hamper the flow of air over the interior surface. 

17. Patios, decks, and landings: Do not stack patio furniture or other articles near or against windows that directly cause shading or “cold spots” on your windows and doors. This reduces the effectiveness and performance of the glass. This can also lead to glass cracking.

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