Sunview Windows and Doors manufacture windows in their Saskatoon factory. They install new and replacement windows for homeowners and businesses in Saskatoon and across Saskatchewan. They also sell high quality doors and security shutters. Sunview Windows and Doors are Trusted Saskatoon Window, Door & Sunroom Experts. In their latest windows tip they share info on mitigating energy loss through your windows.
Energy Loss Through Windows Explained by Sunview Windows Team
Windows and doors in Saskatoon and area are often a major factor in energy loss in your home. Single-paned windows that have metal frames are not well insulated and do not keep the heat in or out very well. The edges of doors and windows account for a large amount of air leakage. Energy loss through windows is the largest and most variable loss in buildings and has major implications on energy consumption and peak heating and cooling loads.
Types of Windows
Windows only take up between 5-10% of a home's total surface area that is exposed to outside temperatures but accounts for as much as 53% of the heat lost in a home. Older homes are more susceptible to heat loss because of the structure of the windows. Your options to fix these heat losses are to either purchase new windows or to try some low-cost efforts to repair the window. The idea is to purchase the most energy-efficient windows possible given your budget and your specific needs. Double and Triple Paned Windows are designed with a trapped air space about half an inch thick, which functions as an insulator. It works by restricting the amount of air movement, slowing down the heat loss through windows. Low Emissivity Windows have a clear coating on the window to reduce heat loss or gain. This is an almost invisible coat of semi-conductor or metal oxide film that is applied directly to the glass or on a plastic film that is placed between the two window panes.
There are two different types of Low-E coatings, hard coats and soft coats. Soft coats are the most effective at reflecting heat and are better insulators of heat. The hard coat is incorporated directly into the surface of the glass and is less likely to be mechanically damaged, so in most cases, they are used in single-pane storm windows. Windows that are made with low-E films are usually approximately 15-25% more costly than regular double-glazed windows. They will also reduce energy loss by around 30-50%. The energy savings will pay for the higher cost of the windows in around 10 years. Argon Gas is a motionless gas that manufacturers use to fill the space between the panes of glass to reduce heat loss. Argon gas is often used because it is a better insulator than air and has a relatively low cost compared to the alternatives. Low-conductivity spacers separate two pieces of glass when making an insulated glass unit.
Window Frame
The way that the window frame is put together has a great impact on the required maintenance and life span of the window. Aluminium frames require little to no maintenance and generally have a long life span. Fibreglass frames are not very available but are high in energy efficiency. Some of these models are filled with a foam insulator to better insulate heat. Vinyl frames require no maintenance and perform well thermally. Wood frames insulate well and have a long life span but they need to be protected from the weather. U-values let you know how much heat is getting through your window. Low U-values mean that there is very little heat getting through the window. Solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC) let you know how much of the sun’s energy is being transferred through the window frame. Ensure that your window is installed properly by getting a professional to install it; a poorly installed window will not work as efficiently.
How to stop energy loss through windows you already have
If you are unable to replace your current windows, there are other ways to improve efficiency and reduce energy loss. You should install storm windows. You can install these windows on the inside or the outside. Your insulation will improve by the dead air that is trapped between the windows. There are a few different types of storm windows such as rigid plastic storm windows, which are attached to the window with a mounting strip. There are the single-pane storm windows, which are to be installed each fall and removed each spring. There are permanent storm windows, which are more convenient than the removable type and have both screening and glass in the same unit. Temporary storm windows are plastic and are attached to the frame with tightly shrunken two-sided tape. Lastly, there are window coverings such as blinds and curtains that can help lower the possibility of heat loss, especially at night. Make sure that your window covering does not restrict the movement of air because it can cause the window to sweat.
Marla Janzen is an award-winning SASKATOON & WARMAN REALTOR. She takes action to sell her client's homes and find them the perfect new place to live while negotiating the best terms and price possible. She loves what she does and takes great pride in providing excellence in customer service to all of her clients. Marla Janzen is a TRUSTED SASKATOON REAL ESTATE AGENT and she is eager to provide Trusted Saskatoon real estate Tips that help the public! In her latest real estate advice, she explains why your should repair your home before putting it up for sale!
Why You Should Repair Your Home Before Selling
Why Is It Important to Keep Your Home In Good Physical Condition?
When you are about to sell your home, you will need to make sure your home is in good condition before you do. Cosmetic aspects of your home are important selling tools and if you take the time to touch things up, it will pay off in the end.
What to fix first?
Deciding on what to fix can vary. A discussion with your REALTOR® and doing some research is always the best first step. Take into consideration the time of the year, similar competing homes on the market, and what kind of neighbourhood you are residing in.
1. Flooring
Flooring is a good place to start. Whether you have hardwood, laminate, tile, or carpet you want to ensure they are in good condition. Homebuyers will notice and could be driven away if your flooring is in very poor condition.
2. Walls
Walls and ceilings should be free of cracks and chipped paint. While most people are likely to paint once they move in, you want your home to look as nice as possible. A fresh coat of paint will often do the trick. Use neutral colours like white or very light grey.
3. Kitchen
The kitchen should be a prime target in this area. Many people know the frustration of having a poor kitchen especially when the cabinets and appliances are in bad condition. A complete kitchen remodel can be expensive, talk to your REALTOR® about what improvements will assist in the sale of your home.
Overall you want to make sure your home is in the best condition possible. Use your best judgement and the help of your REALTOR® to determine what needs to be repaired or updated before you put your home on the market.
Marla Janzen has a keen eye for house layout and home staging, which really benefits her clients, most of whom are past client referrals! She guarantees to provide you with a stress-free, hassle-free, wonderful experience and we are sure once you have met her that you will not contact anyone else!
Invisible Fence® Brand systems Saskatchewan are invisible boundary systems for your yard and home! It keeps your pet out of harm's way and prevents unwanted behaviours throughout your home and yard. The systems are safe, humane, and highly recommended by Veterinarians, Behaviorists, and pet experts. Over the last 45 years, they have helped more than two million pets and their owners lead safe and harmonious lives together, and their exclusive training program allows dogs and cats to learn their boundaries without fear, distress, or behavioural harm. Invisible Fence Saskatchewan is your Trusted Saskatoon Pet fencing solution expert!
Many pet owners struggle with keeping their farm dogs from roaming. Although outdoor or farm dogs are often used to protect property, keeping them from running off too far can be difficult. We put together our top tips on how to keep your dog from roaming.
Why is my dog roaming?
Before trying to change your pet’s behaviour, it is important to understand why that behaviour occurs. Dogs can chase and roam for a variety of reasons. Many farm and outdoor dogs are bred to be working animals that protect their herd or property. For these dogs, picking up a scent can cause them to investigate further than the owner may like. Dogs can also roam when they are looking for a mate.
Ways to prevent your dog from Roaming
There are several different methods to keep your dog from roaming to prevent them from getting lost. In some cases, using a traditional fence around your farm or large property can keep your dog from chasing predators too far off your property.
Another solution is Invisible Fence
® Brand’s
GPS Wireless Containment. Our GPS satellite technology is the most advanced Invisible
® pet fence on the market with options to customize boundaries in the size and shape you choose. There’s no maximum yard size; however, GPS Wireless Containment is best suited for properties that are 5 acres or more in size, making it the best dog fence for farms and acreage. Our certified trainers teach your pet his boundaries without fear or confusion, so you can be confident your dog will stay within the boundaries you set.
Keeping your dog from chasing after predators doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Since 1973 Invisible Fence® Brand’s innovative solutions, industry-leading training and expertise have given more than 3 million pets newfound independence and security - while also instilling confidence in their owners.
At Invisible Fence Brand of Saskatchewan, they're passionate about protecting pets — so you can focus on fun! Get more information on the solutions they offer by visiting their listing in the Trusted Pets and Vets category.
Professional spray foam insulation service, here are the general steps involved in the process:
Consultation and Assessment: A representative from the insulation company will visit your property to assess your insulation needs. They will inspect the areas to be insulated, discuss your requirements, and provide recommendations based on factors like building design, climate, and budget.
Preparation: Before the installation, the work area needs to be prepared. This typically involves clearing the space, protecting surfaces, and ensuring proper ventilation if necessary.
Safety Measures: The insulation team will take necessary safety precautions, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respirators, to protect themselves during the installation process.
Application: The spray foam insulation is applied using specialized equipment. There are two types of spray foam insulation: open-cell and closed-cell foam. The specific type chosen will depend on factors like insulation requirements, building design, and budget. The insulation is typically sprayed onto the designated surfaces, expanding and adhering to form a continuous insulation layer.
Cleanup: Once the application is complete, the work area will be cleaned up. Any excess or overspray foam will be removed, and the surroundings will be restored to their original condition.
Drying and Curing: The spray foam insulation requires a curing period to fully set and harden. The duration of this process may vary based on the type and thickness of the foam used.
Final Inspection: After the insulation has cured, a final inspection is conducted to ensure the installation meets quality standards and adheres to applicable building codes and regulations.
It's important to hire a reputable and experienced insulation contractor who is trained in spray foam insulation installation. They will have the knowledge and expertise to properly assess your needs, choose the appropriate type of spray foam insulation, and ensure a thorough and effective installation.
In our latest tip Trusted explains why the best insulation choice for Saskatoon properties is spray foam Insulation.
Spray foam insulation is commonly used in Canada for several reasons:
Energy Efficiency
Spray foam insulation is known for its high R-value, which indicates its effectiveness in reducing heat transfer. It provides a superior thermal barrier, minimizing air leakage and reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and lowering energy bills in Canada's cold climate.
Air Sealing
Spray foam insulation is an effective air barrier, sealing gaps, cracks, and other areas where air leakage may occur. This helps to prevent drafts, moisture infiltration, and the entry of outdoor pollutants, improving indoor air quality and reducing the risk of mold or moisture-related issues.
Versatility
Spray foam insulation can be applied to various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, attics, and crawl spaces. It conforms to irregular shapes and fills cavities effectively, providing seamless coverage. It is particularly useful for insulating hard-to-reach areas or spaces with complex geometries.
Longevity
When properly installed, spray foam insulation has a long lifespan. It does not settle or degrade over time, maintaining its insulating properties and performance for many years. This durability reduces the need for frequent insulation replacements or upgrades.
Soundproofing
Spray foam insulation also offers soundproofing benefits by reducing airborne noise transmission. It can help create a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment by minimizing noise from outside sources or between different rooms.
It's worth noting that there are different types of spray foam insulation, such as open-cell and closed-cell foam, each with its specific characteristics and applications. The choice of spray foam insulation type may depend on budget, insulation requirements, building design, and local building codes and regulations. Professional consultation and installation by trained experts are recommended to ensure proper installation and optimal performanc