FAQ

Doors

What is the difference between a French door and a patio door?

A French door is a door with multiple glass panes. They are often installed as a pair or in multiple pairs, where one of the pair may be fixed indefinitely with locks or posts. They are most frequently used at the back of a home leading to a deck, garden or patio.

A Patio door is a sliding door made of two large panes of glass set in sashes, with one pane stationary and one operable. The glass in a patio door may extend from top to bottom, or the bottom of the door may include a decorative panel.

Enertech Window Systems

What is Low-E glass and what are its benefits?

Low-E glass stands for low emissivity glass. It is a technologically advanced, insulating glass that improves energy efficiency by reducing the transfer of heat or cold through windows.

West Coast Windows uses Cardinal's LoE³ which adds a third coating for the ultimate in performance and clarity - it reduces window heat gain by 64% compared to ordinary glass. LoE³ also provides exceptional fading protection, blocking out 95% of damaging UV rays.

During cold weather the insulating effect of your windows directly impacts the air temperature in your rooms. The superior insulating capability of LoE³ glass keeps your home warm and controls humidity.

The benefits for our customers include:
- Energy and cost savings
- Decreased condensation
- Year round comfort
- More sunlight
- Improved clarity
- Prevention of damaging UV rays

What is Argon gas and what are its benefits?

Argon gas is a safe, inert, non-toxic gas that is inserted between the panes of an insulated low-e glass unit. Argon gas reduces convection heat loss within the sealed unit, but it is not effective on its own.

West Coast’s Enertech Window Systems use industry leading LoE³ glass in conjunction with argon gas to deliver the ideal balance of solar control and high visibility. The combination of our LoE³ and the argon gas separates heat from cold, retaining the heat indoors during the winter to keep you warm and directing the heat outside in summer to keep you cool.

What is warm edge technology?

Warm Edge refers to the type of spacer material used to separate the panes of glass (or glazing) in an insulated window unit. If the material conducts less heat or cold than a conventional aluminum spacer at the edge of the glass, it is said to be 'warm-edge.' Most of these newer window spacers are less conductive and outperform pure aluminum.

We use Super Spacer's No-Metal spacer, which blocks the heat escape path and provides one of the best thermal performances in the industry. That means it keeps the heat in during the winter months and keeps the cool in during the summer months. Super Spacer assures comfortable winter humidity levels with hardly any worries about condensation and mold.

Environment

Is vinyl an environmentally friendly product?

Vinyl is one of the most successful modern synthetic materials. It makes excellent use of resources and is suitable for a wide range of applications that surround us in everyday life. Products made of vinyl offer durability, fire resistance and energy efficiency.

Can vinyl be recycled?

All types of vinyl products can be recycled and reprocessed into second-generation products. According to a 1999 study by Principia Partners, more than one billion pounds of vinyl were recovered and recycled into useful products in North America in 1997. About 18 million pounds of that was post-consumer vinyl diverted from landfills and recycled into second-generation products. Overall, more than 99% of all manufactured vinyl compound ends up in a finished product, due to widespread post-industrial recycling.

General

What are the benefits of vinyl windows?

Vinyl Windows are the most popular material in use today and represent the largest market share in the window replacement industry.

Vinyl windows provide energy efficiency because they are resistant to heat flow. They are also strong and durable, with little maintenance required. They do not need to be scraped, painted, or stained. They are also almost 100% scratch free, guaranteed to always look their best.

Vinyl windows are an affordable choice and come in a wide range of prices and colours. They can be easily customized and are available in a wide range of styles, shapes and sizes. Installation is quick and easy.

The benefits for our customers include:
• Lower heating and cooling costs
• No painting or staining required
• Extremely durable and long lasting product
• Economical
• Easily customized
• Wide selection of styles
• Easily and quickly installed

What should I look for in selecting an energy efficient window?

Whether you are purchasing windows for new construction or replacement, selecting high performance energy efficient windows is a must. Our Enertech Window Systems deliver industry leading energy efficient technologies. Our superior sealed unit technology and frame profile, combined with LoE³ glass and argon gas, significantly improve the energy performance, comfort and security of your home.

What is Divided Lite?

Divided lites create unique patterns and dynamic reflections of light. Simulated Divided Lites (SDLs), available in our 2000 through 5000 series, are permanently adhered to the interior and exterior of the window, creating the luxurious feel of individual glass lites through the use of externally applied grilles and pewter full. SDLs can be used to achieve the classic beauty of a heritage look or the bold styling of a modern design

Do West Coast Windows build wood windows?

We manufacture wood-clad windows in our Pinnacle collection. This is a unique hybrid window designed for customers who want wood windows without the maintenance wood demands. A warm Douglas Fir wood interior is applied to the vinyl window, resulting in a wood interior with a maintenance-free vinyl exterior. Several custom colours are available for the exterior.

Are West Coast Windows available/approved for use in the US?

Currently our windows are not approved for use in the US, however we have sold windows to clients in the US that had inspectors willing to accept them with the Canadian ratings.

We are hoping in the very near future that our windows will have the approvals necessary for use in the United States.

Maintenance

How do I prevent condensation on the inside of my windows?

Condensation on the inside of a window indicates the humidity levels inside the room are higher than the outside. There are steps you can take to reduce excessive condensation.

Select our unique Enertech Window Systems - a synthesis of industry leading technological components that include LoE³ glass, argon gas, Super Spacer and customized frame profiles. These design components not only control solar energy, but also control condensation.

For existing windows:
• Ensure sealed units have not failed
• Open windows when there is excessive moisture
• Use a dehumidifier
• Use ceiling fans to circulate air
• Use exhaust fans in high humidity rooms such as bathrooms

How do I care for my vinyl windows?

Vinyl windows are virtually maintenance free, but some simple routine cleaning and maintenance will ensure they perform their best and continue to look great.

Frames

Wash window and patio door frames with mild, nonabrasive soap and water. Never use abrasive or acidic cleaners because they might cause permanent damage to the frame finish. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first. Wipe dry when finished.

Glass (all types)

• Clean glass with a mixture of mild dish soap and water. When finished, rinse completely with clear water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
• Do not use petroleum-based cleaners or caustic chemicals; razor blades, putty knifes or abrasive pads; high-pressure water hoses on any part of your window or patio door.
• Use only mild soap, water, and a soft brush when cleaning your screens. When finished, rinse with clear water and wipe dry.

Patio doors

• Periodically lubricate all window tracks, rollers and hardware.
• Regularly check weather-stripping to ensure patio door is sealed airtight.
• Vacuum the tracks on all sliding patio doors to clear any dirt or debris.

Specifications

Have you got any figures which deal with sound attenaution through either laminated glass windows or triple glaze windows. Which is better, laminated or triple. Thanks

Yes we do, please contact the office for the specifications.