Buying Guide – Products from QC | Portes et Fenêtres Verdun

TYPES OF WINDOWS AND THEIR ADVANTAGES

Here’s a useful table showing the various types of windows available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a sash window, casement window, awning window, Cremone bolt window or sliding window, you’ll be able to make an informed decision.

Awning windows

Crank operated
Energy efficiency and durability
The most weathertight, along with casement windows (compressed weather-stripping)
Can be left open when it’s raining
No friction

Casement windows

Crank operated
Energy efficiency and durability
The most weathertight, along with awning windows (compressed weather-stripping)
Increased ventilation (air is channeled toward the inside)
Easy to maintain from inside the home
No friction

Sliding windows

Unobtrusive
Indirect ventilation (if double windows with four panes)
Easy maintenance (removable sash)
Maximum glazed surface (thin frame)
Affordable
Ideal as an emergency exit

CRÉDIT: LEPAGE MILLWORK

Cremone bolt windows

Traditional charm
Ease of use
Optimal air circulation

Sash windows

Unobtrusive
Indirect ventilation (if double windows with four panes)
Easy maintenance (removable or tilting sash)
Preservation of the charm of older homes

Fixed windows

Maximum energy efficiency and durability
The most weathertight
Non-opening

Bay windows have three sections

Bay windows

This type of bay window juts out from the exterior wall.

Maximum natural light
Increased visibility
Added ventilation (the two outer panes usually open)
Stamp of individuality
Practical interior shelf

Bow windows can have four or five sections

Architectural windows

Architectural windows, which are often fixed, are available in a wide range of custom dimensions and shapes, including squares, rectangles, trapezoids, circles, ovals, diamonds, semi-circles, basket handles, arcs, hexagons, ellipses and more.

Architectural elements
Stamp of individuality
Increased natural light

TYPES OF MATERIALS AND THEIR ADVANTAGES

Here’s a useful table showing the various types of materials available on the market. Whether you’re looking for PVC, a PVC-aluminum hybrid, wood, a wood-aluminum hybrid or aluminum, you’ll be able to make an informed decision.

PVC windows

Best energy efficiency on the market
Best value for your money
Excellent strength and durability
Insulation against heat and noise
Can withstand impacts
Finish will not yellow, split, crack or become chalky
No special maintenance required
Easy to clean
The most popular choice
Affordable

Hybrid PVC-aluminum windows

Energy efficiency
Thermal performance of PVC combined with the rigidity of aluminum
Good value for the price
Affordable
Excellent strength and durability
Low maintenance
Easy to clean

CRÉDIT: LEPAGE MILLWORK

Wood windows

High insulation factor
Good structural resistance
High-quality material with a warm appearance
Can be hand-crafted and customized
Finishing treatment required

Aluminum windows

Exceptionally lightweight and durable
High insulation factor
Solidity and rigidity
Thin frame for maximum glazed surface
Weathertightness and resistance to warping
Low maintenance

Hybrid wood-aluminum windows

High insulation factor
Good structural resistance
Added resistance to the elements
Excellent insulation and sound absorption
Warm interior finish
Minimal exterior maintenance required
Less expensive than all-wood products

INSULATION & PERFORMANCE

The new Energy Star specifications that went into effect on January 1, 2020 are much stricter. Certification is now reserved for the top 20 percent among the most energy-efficient products sold in Canada.

However, a product that doesn’t meet the new Energy Star criteria isn’t necessarily of poor quality; it simply isn’t part of the top 20 percent of the most energy-efficient products on the market. Triple thermopane windows, windows without multiple panes or false grids, and fixed products are all favored by the new regulations.

Furthermore, as of January 2020, all of Canada is considered to be in a single climate zone (instead of three), and only products meeting the specifications for that zone can be Energy Star certified.

Energy efficiency: R-value, U-factor and EP rating

To help you make an informed decision, here are the characteristics that ensure that a window provides good insulation:

R-value

This designates the insulating properties or thermal resistance of a material or product. The higher the rating, the better insulation the product provides.
U-factor

As an indicator of the resistance to temperature fluctuations, the U-factor is, in fact, the inverse of the R-value. You should look for the lowest possible number.
EP rating

The EP (energy performance) rating is calculated using a formula that establishes a balance between a product’s U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and air leakage. The higher the EP rating, the more energy efficient the product will be.

Product	Maximum U-factor W/m² (BTU/hr·ft²·°F)	OR	Minimum energy performance (EP)
Doors and windows	1.22 (0.21)	OR	34

Minimum values for meeting the new Energy Star requirements.

GLAZING, COMPONENTS AND CHARACTERISTICS

Here’s some useful information and advice on energy efficiency and sound absorption options to help you make an informed decision.

Double or triple glazing
Every window is either double- or triple-glazed. The thickness of the panes plays a role in the window’s energy efficiency, sound absorption and weight.

Argon gas

The panes of glass are separated by spacers, and the area between them is filled with argon, a gas that’s heavier than air and that considerably reduces heat transfer between the inside and outside.
Another inert gas is that’s emerging on the window market is krypton.

Low-e film

A low-emissivity (“low-e”) film can be applied to the internal wall of one of the panes of glass. This nearly invisible film blocks out some of the heat emitted from the sun—a major advantage during the summer months.
You’ll also find glazing with one or two low-e films, offering maximum efficiency, but reducing solar heat gain during the winter.

Triple glazing

A triple-glazed window has two air spaces. A triple-glazed window with a single argon fill has one space filled with argon and one space filled with air.
In a triple-glazed window with a double argon fill, both spaces are filled with argon. This is the most widely available option on the market, as it’s much more efficient at controlling heat transfer.
With the new Energy Star requirements, triple glazing will be the trend of the future.

Soundproofing

Many believe that a triple-glazed window should be more soundproof than a double-glazed window. However, this belief is false: using panes of two different thicknesses will actually have a greater impact on the sound that passes through them, as each one blocks out different wavelengths. As a result, a double-glazed window with panes of different thickness will absorb more sound than a triple-glazed window with three panes of the same thickness.

FINISHING ELEMENTS

Here’s some useful information and advice on finishes and hardware options to help you make an informed decision.

Colors

A chart is available with a number of the most popular standard colors to harmonize with your flashing, rain gutters and soffits. Look it over with your representative.

Integrated grilles

Grilles are a very popular decorative element. They come in a variety of styles, in Georgian or rectangular profiles, and are situated between the two panes of a sealed unit or thermopane.

Superficial grilles

Simulated divided lites (SDL) reproduce the effect of the lattice windows used at the beginning of the Colonial period. These days, they are generally made of aluminum or PVC, can feature a classic or contemporary style, and come in different colors, typically black or white.

Bear in mind that fixed windows and products without multiple panes or false grids are all favored by the new Energy Star regulations.

Brick molding

This is added to the exterior frame. Available in different widths, models and profiles, this molding adds style to your residence and can be adapted to the dimensions of the window openings and to the siding or other material used on the exterior of the building. You can choose from a selection of molding in contemporary or classic styles.

Cranks

Portes et Fenêtres Verdun is proud to offer an all-new line of superior-quality Vesta Series products that are unique, solid, durable and easy to operate, featuring the new Assa Abloy Premium Interlock system for casement and awning windows.

Tests have shown that this new technology offers enhanced resistance that exceeds industry standards by far. The operation of standard cranks on the market is generally tested 8,000 times, while the innovative Assa Abloy system has been shown to withstand a cycle of more than 32,000 operations.

Locking

The new Assa Abloy multi-point window locking system operates with a very smooth movement.

High-performance hinges

The Assa Abloy hinges used on the awning and casement windows can support up to 148 pounds, exceeding the industry standard of 96 pounds by far.

Screens

Screens are included with all windows that open and close. Made of fiberglass mesh, they can cover the whole window or only part of it, regardless of whether it’s single or double. The screens for sash windows and sliding windows are installed on the outside, and it’s recommended to remove them during the winter. The screens on crank-operated models can be left in place, as they’re installed on the inside.

MEASUREMENTS

Here are some tips to help you take measurements of your windows before you visit the store.

Width and height
Include the width and height of your interior molding, as it conceals the actual opening in the wall. Your representative will confirm the final measurements.

Depth
Measure the distance between the outer and inner wall.

Opening direction
As viewed from the outside.

ESTIMATES

A cheaper estimate is always appealing, but you need to make sure that the lower estimate offers all of the same elements and that they’re of comparable quality.

Here are the things you should look for on an estimate:

All of the elements that are specific to your project
The number and type of windows, their format and the direction in which they open.
Installation method
All of the relevant details that are specific to your project.
All of the finishing elements
Colors, interior and exterior molding, grilles, slot covers, integrated blinds, frames, architectural details, interior shelves, models, finishes, etc.
All of the hardware elements
Cranks, locks, screens, models, finishes, etc.
Warranty
The warranty on parts and installation.
Permits
Information related to obtaining permits in accordance with your local municipal regulations.
RBQ
The number of the company’s license from the Quebec Building Authority (RBQ).
CCQ
Owners of rental or income-generating buildings must comply with the regulations of the Quebec Construction Commission (Commission de la construction du Québec).
Financing
If discussed with your representative, the financing option, including the amount, interest rate and payment schedule.

Request an estimate for your project

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT THE STORE.

Visit our magnificent showrooms and get inspired! TIPS: Before your visit, take photos and measurements of your current windows. Consider bringing some images of styles that inspire you!

ASK FOR AN IN-HOME CONSULTATION.

We will come to your home at no charge to assess your needs and show you our products. TIPS: Before the meeting, determine the design style that inspires you and look for some photos of windows you like!

ENTRUST THE INSTALLATION OF YOUR WINDOWS TO THE EXPERTS AT PORTES ET FENÊTRES VERDUN

Having your windows installed by a team of professionals is essential for ensuring the optimal durability and performance of the products.

Even the best-quality product can perform poorly if it isn’t properly installed. That’s why it’s strongly recommended that you entrust the installation to a specialized company with the necessary experience to work with the manufacturer’s products. Your comfort will be ensured by an installation performed in accordance with best practices.

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