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Product Choices

What should I look for when buying a new entry door?

What is the difference between replacement and retrofit windows?

What other factors should I consider before purchasing new windows?

What are Low E and Argon, and how do these reduce energy costs?

What do I need to know about eavestrough?

Installation

How do I calculate the amount of vinyl siding I`ll need?

What can I expect when my new door or windows are installed by Aluminum Associates?

Maintenance

How should I clean my vinyl siding?

What causes condensation and how can I control it?

What do I need to know about maintaining caulking and weatherstripping?

If you have an unanswered question about any of the products that we sell, feel free to speak to a sales representative in our showroom at 1801 Trafalgar St. E., call us at 519-453-6400, or click here to e-mail us.

Product Choices

What should I look for when buying a new entry door?
There are hundreds of options available when it comes to selecting an entrance system. Of course the size of the opening and your budget will be key factors, but there are a large number of options available to help you get exactly what you need and want. These include: configuration (single door, or door with side lite, for example), material, size, shape of decorative panels, type of glass (if any), finish, weatherstripping, cladding, sill type, jamb depth, and hardware. Some choices will be determined by the size of your opening, but your Aluminum Associates sales representative will discuss your options and help you to select the right product for your application, but here are a few points to help you narrow down your choices.

Premium steel doors are energy efficient, maintenance free, and everlasting. Wooden doors are not. They are often drafty, far less secure, require regular maintenance, and are prone to deterioration.

Fiberglass doors are specially engineered to provide maximum protection and durability. They will not dent; and resist splitting, cracking and warping. Available in both a smooth or woodgrain texture, they are also paintable and stainable, providing years of low maintenance satisfaction. The deep wood-grain texture yields a very realistic wood-like appearance in a much more durable material.

Lites (the glass area in a door or sidelite) come in a number of sizes, decorative styles, glass types, and caming options (the divider between glass pieces, as in a leaded glass panel). They let light in, and in some cases, allow ventilation. Glass lites can provide varying degrees of privacy depending on the type of glass used (clear, glue chip, bevelled , etc.) and the complexity of the design. Some lites are also available with shades or blinds that are sealed between the panes of glass where the need for dusting is eliminated.

Door lites consist of two panes of tempered glass (which is 4 to 5 times stronger than standard glass), and if they are of a more decorative nature, often triple panes – breaking through would not be easy so you can feel secure, even with a large door lite. Deadbolt locks are recommended for the best security.

With so many options it`s easy to find the right product for your home. See the Doors page of this website for information about the specific features of the quality doors that Aluminum Associates sells and installs.

What is the difference between replacement and retrofit windows?
Installation of a replacement window involves removal of existing sashes and screens, and fitting the new window inside the existing wood frame or jamb. To make your windows maintenance free any exterior exposed wood is covered using aluminum cladding. This method is used for approximately 95% of all window installations into existing openings.

Retrofit (sometimes called full frame replacement) involves not only the removal of your current sashes and screens, but also removal of the existing wood jamb, going right back to the rough stud opening. This is considered the top of the line installation method. Retrofit does cost a little more, but the benefits make it worth considering.

With a typical replacement window the glass area is reduced. A retrofit installation, however, maximizes your glass area because the existing jamb is removed. Removing the jamb also gives the opportunity to address problems of insufficient insulation and wood rot. At Aluminum Associates, this process is also used when an overall structural change is being made, such as the replacement of a small window with a much larger one.

Aluminum Associates has perfected the retrofit procedure and we use only top quality products and methods. Unlike others who perform retrofit installations without benefit of a new wood jamb, or only a small jamb extension, we always use a one-piece wrap-around wood jamb, thereby enhancing structural integrity. We do not recommend using vinyl, or a combination of wood and vinyl, jamb extensions – when we secure the casing trim around your new window we want to be sure the nail hits wood, not a thin layer of vinyl.

For specific information about installation by a qualified Aluminum Associates installation team see the Services page of this website.

What other factors should I consider before purchasing new windows?
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.

WHY : You should consider replacing your windows if you are experiencing water leakage or drafts due to deterioration. Newer high performance windows offer significant improvement in energy efficiency, solar control, and thermal comfort. Vinyl windows also eliminate the regular painting that is required to keep wood windows looking good.

WHEN : Contrary to public perception, window installation can be completed year-round. In most cases, the length of time between removal of the old window and replacement with a new one is a matter of minutes. There is no need to delay installation until spring or summer; waiting will only postpone the added comfort and energy savings that you could be enjoying immediately after your new windows are installed.

WHAT : There are 2 window types: fixed (non-opening) and operable (opening). Among the operable units there are several styles: awning, casement, horizontal slider, vertical slider (single or double hung), single tilt and tilt. Operating features, benefits, cost, and location feasibility, vary according to style.

WHERE : When deciding on the suitability of window types and styles for your window locations there are a number of factors to consider. While fixed windows are less expensive and ensure the highest degree of security and air tightness, their use may be dictated by safety code restrictions. The type of window currently in place also determines, in part, the appropriate window replacement.

WHO : Advancements in window technology make installation somewhat more complex than it was in the past. Expert installation, complete with an installation warranty, is your wisest choice. At Aluminum Associates we guarantee our products, our workmanship, and your satisfaction.

For specific information about the window products that we sell and install at Aluminum Associates see the Windows page of this website.

What are Low E and Argon, and how do they reduce energy costs?
Heat naturally flows to areas of low temperature. In fact, during the heating season up to two-thirds of the heat in your home can be lost through standard window glass. This heat transfer can be countered with a micro thin, metallic, low emittance (Low E) coating between the two panes of window glass. Emittance refers to the relative power of a surface to emit heat by radiation. If there is a heat source inside (or outside) your house, the Low E coating on the glass bounces much of the heat that radiates from that object back away from the window.

For example, in the winter months the heat that is generated by your furnace, or is given off by objects that have been warmed (such as walls or furniture), naturally tries to flow toward the cooler air outside via your windows, but much of it can be bounced back into your room by the Low E coating. In the summer, the reverse is true. Outside, the sun heats the air, the driveway, the brick on your neighbours house, etc., and this heat radiates and tries to get into your house through your windows. The Low E glass coating, however, bounces much of it back outside.

Argon gas is a colourless, odorless, non-toxic, non-flammable and non-corrosive gas used to insulate the dead air space normally found between two panes of glass. It resists the transfer of heat through the space and has an insulation value more than 30% greater than air – the overall result is warmer interior glass surfaces of 5 to 6 degrees in winter, with greater resistance to condensation. Warmer interior glass surfaces mean convected downdrafts are reduced, which makes sitting areas near windows or patio doors much more comfortable, allowing you greater use of your floor space.

As glass allows visible light to enter, it also allows ultraviolet (UV) radiation in. This causes fading and deterioration of carpeting, drapery, and upholstery. Low E and Argon Gas have the added advantage of blocking two-thirds of harmful UV rays that cause damage, helping to reduce colour fading and extend the lifetime of valuable furnishings.

If your windows have Low E and Argon your furnace and air-conditioning systems work less – that can add up to significant energy savings on your monthly bills; and your furnishings last longer which will also save money in the long term. Your investment will have value-added benefits when you include Low E and Argon in your window purchase.

What do I need to know about eavestrough?
Eavestroughs may be one of the most overlooked and undervalued features of your home (until they cease to function effectively!). While their impact on appearance is less dramatic than windows, siding, or doors, eavestroughs are essential to extending the life of your home. The lack of eavestroughs, or poorly installed or maintained trough, can promote water seepage into basements, cause damage to foundations, and wash away plants, soil and mulch.

Available in a wide variety of colours, aluminum eavestrough never needs to be painted because the colour is baked right on. Using specially equipped trucks, our team members can fabricate the desired length of seamless eavestrough onsite. Standard seamless eavestrough is 5" in width, and 6" width is also available to handle the large volumes of rainwater on larger homes or commercial buildings.

See the Aluminum products page for specific information about the quality aluminum products that we sell and install.

Installation
In the past, the common method of installation was to insert spikes through the trough and into the fascia. Trough expands and contracts over time, however, resulting in the spikes becoming loose and eventually falling out. Today, we install all eavestrough using hidden brackets and screws, which provide a clean look and keep your trough secure. The addition of a leaf screen system (see below) also enhances the strength and stability of trough.

Although it requires extra effort and skill, Aluminum Associates fabricates hand miters at the corners, rather than using standard preformed box miters. This reduces the number of seams from three to one, which helps to reduce the potential for leakage. Gutter Seal is used to seal joints, instead of silicone, because it is more pliable and has better adhesion, resulting in a seal that lasts longer.

The placement and number of downspouts required varies from application to application. A number of factors are taken into consideration, however, including the slope or fall of the land; and the location of walkways, basement windows, and any low lying areas.

Leaf Screen
Eavestrough should be cleaned twice yearly (particularly when overhanging trees are a factor). This can be time consuming, messy, and for homeowners not comfortable with working off of ladders, a potential hazard. The installation of leaf screen eliminates these concerns while adding value to your home. It prevents leaves and other debris from entering your eavestrough and allows the water to be drained away, even when ice and snow lay on top of the leaf screen. It can easily be installed on new or existing eavestrough and is maintenance free – you`ll never have to unclog your eavestrough again! See the Aluminum products page of this website for more information about the leaf screen and eavestrough sold at Aluminum Associates.

Installation

How do I calculate the amount of vinyl siding I`ll need?
For horizontal siding you must adjust the height of the area to be covered to make it divisible by the height of the siding panel (e.g. 9" high panel for Double 4.5" profile). For example, if your wall is 114" high you must add 3" to the height to make it divisible by 9", to ensure that you have enough vinyl siding.

Similarly, for vertical siding you must increase the width to make it divisible by the width of the vertical siding panel being used.

• Measure each wall you want to cover. Multiply width x height = _____ sq. ft.
• Use the following formula to calculate siding required for each gable end:
• Gable width x gable height, multiplied by .67 (or 2/3) = _____ sq. ft.

• Total the square footage for all walls and gable ends.
• Measure all openings for doors and windows. Multiply width x height = _____ sq. ft.
• Total the square footage for all openings.
• Subtract half of the total square footage of openings from the total wall area.
• The remaining number represents the total square footage of vinyl siding required.

Complete installation instructions are available at Aluminum Associates, or you can see Royal Building Products` installation guides online at: www.royalbuildingproducts.com . These also include information about installation of Designer Shake, and accessory products such as starter strips, J-Channels, inside and outside corners, drip caps, etc., to complete your project. See the Siding page of this website for specific information about the quality siding that is available from Aluminum Associates.

What can I expect when my new door or windows are installed?
Following the placement of an order with our Sales Representatives and payment of an applicable deposit, our Installation Manager will call you to arrange a time to recheck all measurements and order details. He is responsible for the smooth installation of your new door or windows, so involving him at this early stage ensures accuracy and a smooth transition from ordering to installation.

Steel and fibreglass entry systems, patio doors, and windows are custom ordered to fit your application. Once these items are received in our warehouse, and examined to ensure that all components are intact and in good condition, our Service Advisor will contact you to arrange a convenient time for installation.

With your permission, when the installers arrive they will place a small job site sign on your property. New doors and windows can be installed year-round. In most cases it takes only a few minutes to take out an existing door or window and set a new one in place, so the exposure to the elements is minimal. The improved energy efficiency of a new door or window can more than offset the minimal exposure to the elements.

Deadbolt locks are recommended for the best door security. Our installers will install your new (or existing) door handle and deadbolt.

When removal and replacement is done professionally there is virtually no damage to your home. In most cases, however, rather than reusing the old casing trim (the woodwork around the interior door or window opening) Aluminum Associates replaces it with new trim. The trim is then ready for the customer to apply the appropriate paint or stain to match their decor.

Our installers will make every effort to protect your property and ensure that the work area is fully cleaned, including cleaning fingerprints off of glass and trim, and removing all refuse, before leaving the job site. We will take away your old doors and windows and ensure that they are taken to a recycling depot. Wherever possible, these items are recycled to create post consumer materials that can be used to make new products, rather than going to a land fill.

After final completion your Sales Representative will call to set up an appointment to meet with you to go over the work to ensure your satisfaction. They will also review the warranty cards, and if everything is to your satisfaction, present an invoice and collect payment of the balance owing. The Sales Representative will leave a copy of the invoice and all warranties for your files, and take away the job site sign.

You can sit back and enjoy the comfort and convenience of your new door or windows.

Maintenance

How should I clean my vinyl siding?
As with anything exposed to the elements, vinyl siding will get dirty. You can maintain its appearance by cleaning with a brush or sponge and a mild cleaning solution at least once a year. Power washing is not recommended because it can damage the finish of the siding.

Although cleaning siding from the top down appears to be the logical method, it should actually be washed from the bottom up to reduce streaking

It is always a good idea to test wash a small inconspicuous area, to ensure the desired result, before completing a larger, highly visible area. Always read labels and follow instructions to protect eyes, skin, and vegetation from cleaning agents.

For hard to remove dirt, wipe the siding using a solution of:
1/2 cup of laundry detergent (i.e. Tide)
1/2 cup of Trisodiumphosphate (i.e. Soilex)
1 gallon of water

If mildew is a problem, add 1 quart of liquid laundry bleach to this solution.

In addition to the normal build up of dirt, you may also have a problem with staining. If so, follow these steps:

What causes condensation and how can I control it?
Moisture is present in all homes, but when it becomes excessive it can cause condensation. Condensation is water that forms when warm, moist air hits cooler surfaces – such as windows, cold-water pipes or bathroom wall and mirrors. Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor in the air. Excessive humidity is usually the cause of condensation in homes.

When humidity levels in your home are too high relative to outdoor temperatures, condensation can form on cool surfaces such as windows. The windows are not the cause of the condensation, but they can be one of the first places where you notice it. Windows and doors are the coolest interior surfaces of your home that you can see, but if surface condensation is occurring on windows or doors it is also quite possible that there is condensation in the wall cavities as well.

Condensation can cause wood rot, and excess humidity can also cause paint to peel or result in mold and mildew, so you should address a high humidity issue before it results in permanent damage.

Moisture in the home comes from a number of sources: cooking, dishwashers, self-defrosting refrigerators, clothes washers and dryers, showers, saunas, fish tanks, houseplants, fire wood, even the breath of people and animals. There are steps you can take to control humidity levels in your home.

1. Make sure your furnace is in proper working order and is serviced regularly.
2. Turn on exhaust fans when cooking and bathing. Make sure that they vent outside. If there are no fans, close the door and open a window briefly, until the room clears.
3. Make sure that dryers vent to the outside and that there are no holes or leaks in the exhaust pipe.
4. Make sure that louvers and vents for attics and crawl spaces are open, adequately sized, and provide cross ventilation.
5. 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 window treatments to prevent build up of cold air in front of the window.
6. Ensure that cold air returns are open and unblocked to allow air to circulate freely throughout the house.
7. Be sure that chimneys are not clogged.
8. Store firewood outside or in the garage.

In the winter you may need to take additional steps to reduce the humidity in your home and increase airflow over cool surfaces:

1. Closely monitor the furnace humidifier to ensure that settings are at the recommended levels (see the chart below). When the humidity level is too high, turn the humidifier off, shut off the water supply, and empty the humidifier pan.
2. Run exhaust fans for kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms for longer periods.
3. Avoid hanging wet clothes inside.
4. Remove pans of water from heat registers.
5. Remove plants from window ledges and bay or bow window seats.
6. Increase airflow over window glass by removing inside screens, and opening window coverings – such as blinds, shades, drapes, and curtains during daylight hours.
7. Remove air deflectors from registers under windows.
8. Cover the sump pump hole.
9. Open a door or window for several minutes each day to refresh the inside air.
10. Keep bedroom doors open, even if only a little, while sleeping. Alternatively, ensure that there is a gap at the bottom of the door to allow air movement.
11. Leaving the fireplace damper open, or lighting a fire, will increase ventilation and improve the rate of air exchange.
12. Keep all rooms, even if unoccupied, heated. All rooms should be heated to a minimum of 10°C (50°F), as condensation will often occur in unheated rooms.

It is important to realize that some condensation experienced early in the heating season may simply go away without you having to take any action. In the summer months the building materials and furnishing in your home absorb a substantial amount of moisture. When the furnace comes on these materials start to dry out, temporarily adding extra moisture to the air. The resulting condensation usually disappears on it`s own.

What about using a dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier can only reduce the relative humidity to about 60%, which is fine in summer when the outdoor humidity is around 90%, but would make your walls drip in cold weather. There is no place in Canada where a home can be maintained at this humidity level without serious condensation problems. In cold weather the relative humidity should not be over 40%.

Recommended Indoor Relative Humidity
The table below shows recommended indoor relative humidity levels vs. outside air temperature for acceptable comfort. If moisture can be reduced to these levels, it may help cure troublesome surface condensation problems.

What do I need to know about maintaining caulking and weatherstripping?

Caulking
To prevent the elements (rain, snow, wind, even dust and dirt particles) from being unwanted guests in your home, inspect windows, doors, exhaust vents, skylights, and other openings yearly. You should examine caulking for shrinkage (has it peeled away?) and flexibility (is it dry, cracked or crumbling?), and weatherstrip for obvious signs of wear (flattened or non-existent pile and torn or cracked rubber). Addressing any problems you discover could mean lower heating and cooling costs.

Although the idea of recaulking around windows, doors, etc. may seem intimidating, with sufficient practice and a high-quality sealant and caulking gun, it needn`t be. There are many types of exterior caulking on the market, but THERMOPLASTIC, available in a full range of colours, is an excellent choice. It adheres to all exterior surfaces including vinyl, aluminum and brick, and "skins over" allowing it to remain pliable.

Before you begin you must remove all deteriorated caulking and foreign matter, including surface dirt, dust, loose particles, or other contaminants, which may inhibit adhesion. Be sure to read the safety precautions on the sealant tube. To apply new caulking cut the plastic tip of the tube on a 90° angle, a little narrower than the width of the desired joint. Use a caulking gun and apply using even pressure. Hold the gun at a 45° angle from the joint. Ensure the sealant comes in contact with both sides of the joint by at least 3mm (1/8") and that the surface of the joint has a convex shape. Clean up any drips immediately.

Weatherstrip
Weatherstrip is more than just the rubber strip that runs across the bottom of your exterior doors – it can also be found running up the latch side, along the header and down the hinge side of door jambs or frames, on window sashes, and, in some cases, window sills and side jambs. Door jambs that house steel doors typically feature magnetic and compression weatherstrip (door jambs for wood and fiberglass doors use compression only), while storm doors use a pile weatherstrip, and windows have both pile and bulb types. Compression weatherstrip is a vinyl wrapped foam material, pile is like a soft brush cut, and bulb style is a rubber tube.

When replacing window weatherstrip, be sure to replace it with the type and style originally used. This holds true for steel doors and doorjambs as well, unless what is currently in use isn`t sufficient. Often times, a warped steel door slab or doorframe, or a build up of paint, hinders magnetic weatherstrip`s ability to adhere. A switch to compression weatherstrip may help.

For further information regarding caulking and weatherstripping, contact an Aluminum Associates sales representative at 519-453-6400 or visit our 1801 Trafalgar St. showroom.