Polyvinyl Chloride PVC has come a long way since German chemist Eugen Baumann accidentally synthesized it in 1872 after he left a flask of vinyl chloride in sunlight. We find it in many aspects of construction. Today, we turn our attention to how to clean vinyl windows and doors so they look sparkling clean again.
How to Clean Vinyl: in Its Various Forms
There are two basic forms of vinyl PVC. The rigid type features as door and window frames in our homes, and as water pipes. We also purchase non-food items in vinyl packaging and pay for them with vinyl bank cards.
The flexible version appears as electric cable insulation, floor coverings, imitation leather, inflatable products, and old fashioned vinyl records some of us collect. When static electricity builds up on vinyl the material attracts dirt.
Hence we need to know how to clean vinyl products in a wide variety of applications. We focus on PVC windows and doors in this article. However, the same general principles to any product provided the methods we describe won’t harm them.
It’s Easy to Vinyl Windows and Doors
However, do be careful, and think twice about standing on a ladder unless you have a strong adult holding it. In this article, we imagine cleaning the front door standing on your own two feet.
First, vacuum the door using a soft brush attachment to get any dirt out of reveals
Next, wash the door and frame down with a mixture of mild soap and warm water
Now rinse toughly and wipe the surface with a damp cloth (to avoid static building up)
Finally make sure the ‘weep holes’ for drainage are clear by testing them with a tooth pick
NEVER use an abrasive or caustic cleaner because this could permanently spoil the smooth surface of the door or frame.
Now You Know How to Clean Vinyl How About the Locks
Locks and hinges on doors and windows can get sticky owing to dirt attaching to the lubrication. Oil the moving parts lightly with thin oil and wipe them clean with kitchen towel afterwards.
Put a very small amount of oil on the door key and move it in and our several times to loosen the moving parts. Wipe the key thoroughly and avoid putting it in your pocket. Wipe the key next time you use it just in case it has a film of oil.
If you can’t get the vinyl surfaces clean to your satisfaction then something has probably damaged the smooth surface in the past. SilverLine Exterior Solutions at 604-942-0488 is a local vinyl window manufacturer and replacement specialist. Reach out to us for a free assessment on replacement options.
https://www.silverlineexteriors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Cats-at-Window.jpg5011024Adamhttps://www.silverlineexteriors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Silverline_raster_logo_Tag_trademarked-copy-180x180.pngAdam2019-10-18 18:28:002019-10-18 18:30:58How to Clean Vinyl Windows and Doors
James Hardee’s incredible dream collection of seven hundred amazing colours can appear confusing when scrolling through it the first time. One way to solve this is to decide an overall colour theme first, and then consider subtle variations on it next.
We can take comfort when we admire our completed job from the fact the colours are baked on. Therefore they will resist the ravages of ultraviolet light and we just need to wash them down once or twice a year.
Five Neat Ways to Bring the Dream Collection Alive
Consider the Natural Architecture of Your Home
Does your home have particular features you would like to showcase? Perhaps on the other hand you don’t particularly like the portico over the front door. Shades of your main colour theme can tone down details. While using opposites brings them to the forefront, and makes them stand out proud.
Harmonise with Your Prevailing Landscape Next
If your home overlooks water consider using shades of grey and green from the dream collection that speak to it, and make it seem part of nature. Alternatively, if you enjoy a rugged backdrop of mountains you may prefer a blend russets and browns. Investigate the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s true colours palette if your home is in traditional style.
Now Consider the Landscaping Around the House
Unless you are doing a total makeover, you can achieve a great deal by blending with the rest of the built environment. You want something that brings out the best of the paving and garden. It also makes sense to complete a colour scheme that does not clash with the neighbours, because buyers tend to look at the houses on either side.
Find Great Ideas in Our Portfolio of Projects
Steal ideas with your eyes as you scroll through our completed jobs on our website. You’ll find much of interest on the James Hardie website too. There is no end to the creative opportunities provided by their dream collection of seven hundred colours. An experienced siding contractor such as SilverLine Exterior Solutions could be your sympathetic sounding board too.
And Finally, Don’t Be Shy, Just Be You
Home is where the heart is. Therefore, the colours we choose with siding and shingles must match what’s closest to our own hearts. If we may make a suggestion, don’t stray too far away from popular colours. Keep it natural. Someday you may want to sell your house and you won’t want to discourage too many buyers.
Get More Friendly, Free Advice from Us
You can get friendly, helpful advice from Vancouver’s siding and shingle specialists SilverLine Exterior Solutions. View our portfolio of projects to glimpse what we have achieved. Then call us at 604-942-0488 to experience the pleasure of working with our friendly team.
https://www.silverlineexteriors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/ArtisanHero_Desktop.jpg10002880Adamhttps://www.silverlineexteriors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Silverline_raster_logo_Tag_trademarked-copy-180x180.pngAdam2019-10-17 22:03:252021-09-27 22:36:34Dream Collection by James Hardie – What Colours Work Best?
James Hardie has been making fibre-cement boards and strips for over twenty years. During this time they have become a household name throughout North America. And they have been working constantly to reinforce their position. Their Colour Plus Technology remains one of their strongest selling points. This is a system for permanently coating their boards and siding with a vibrant series of colours almost guaranteed to meet everybody’s tastes.
This Gives You One of the Best Maintenance Free Finishes
Hence there’s no need to repaint the exterior of your home unless you change your taste in colour. To keep your finish in tip-top shape all you need do is clean the product with water and a soft brush or cloth, James Hardie further recommends a mild detergent and a soft brush for stubborn dirt or stains.
They provide Color Plus® Touch-up Kits to cover over nicks, scrapes and surplus nail holes that may occur, after filling (as necessary) with cementitious patching compound. However, they suggest replacing the particular board if the damage is more severe.
Being able to readily replace a strip of damaged siding is one of the greatest advantages of choosing a James Hardie product. They are a large international company. Chances are they will be around for a long time to come. We’ve covered some tips to replace
James Hardie’s Amazing Kaleidoscope of Colours
Colour Plus Technology is available in a range of tint themes like boothbay blue, khaki brown, and mountain sage to mention just a few. They combine distinctive beauty and high performance with excellent staying power.
Colour Plus obviously costs more, but it gives you a consistent coating that’s baked in a controlled manufacturing environment. James Hardie provides a 15 year warranty on the Color Plus finished products.
Accordingly you get UV resistance worked into the product, backed by decades of experience and available in over 700 James Hardie Colour Plus finishes now under the Dream Collection. This is definitely something to consider.
Call SilverLine Exterior for Colour Plus Samples
Call us at 604-942-0488 in the Vancouver area and we’ll help you navigate through the colours in the James Hardie Colour Plus range. We’ll explain exactly how we fit siding and decorative panels and give our reasons why. If you are considering residing your home, give us a shout for a free consultation.
Hardie siding is pretty tough, especially where each strip supports the lower edge of the one over it. The bottom strip is however unsupported at the lower edge. A carelessly pushed lawnmower can bump and break it. We describe replacing a bottom Hardie siding strip damaged in this and most any other way.
Replacing a Bottom Hardie Siding Strip – Preparation
Removing a bottom strip of siding is pretty straightforward compared to working on a piece with others above and below. First, you have to carefully remove any old paint and caulk that might cause it to stick to the one above.
Hardie siding can be brittle when you knock an exposed edge. Be careful at this stage, or else you might end up changing the one above it as well. Once you have separated the two, you can start breaking away the damaged strip with a pry bar working from one end to the other.
Always keep your hand on the strip above where you are applying pressure, to resist it cracking or working loose. You don’t want end up replacing a bottom Hardie siding strip and the one above it because you were in too much of a hurry. Remove any exposed nails and all loose dirt once you have cleared the remains of the bottom strip away.
Fixing a Bottom Hardie Siding Strip – Reinstatement
Measure the length you need before you visit your hardware store for a replacement. If they can cut it to length for you then so much the better. Keep the offcut. You’ll be amazed how soon it comes in handy for your next small job. Purchase a small pack of nails while you are there.
Have a friend help you transport the strip home. Remember to carry it vertically, not flat to avoid it snapping under its own weight. Ask your friend to stay a while and help you slip the new board in position, and square it up before you nail it every twelve inches, top and bottom. Then caulk the edges to ensure a weather tight fit. Smear caulk over the nail heads too. so the paint does not peel off.
After replacing a bottom Hardie siding strip and securing it properly, you just have to wipe it down and then apply matching paint. Then you can step back and admire what you achieved without help except some good advice.
However, if the job turns out more complex, then give SilverLine Exterior Solutions a call on 604-942-0488. We are Vancouver Hardie siding specialists and we are here to help you.
When it comes to building and home improvement, U-value is an essential concept that every homeowner should be familiar with. In the context of windows, U-value refers to the amount of heat that is lost through a window. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the U-value of windows and how it affects your home’s energy efficiency.
U-value is a measure of the rate of heat loss through a window or any other building element. It is expressed in watts per square meter per degree Celsius (W/m²K). The lower the U-value of a window, the more energy-efficient it is.
Calculation of U-Value
The U-value of a window is calculated by measuring the amount of heat that is lost through it. This measurement takes into account the window’s frame, glass, and the space between the panes. The U-value calculation also considers factors such as the size of the window, the location of the building, and the climate in that area.
Imperial and Metric U-Value
The U-value can be expressed in both imperial and metric units. In imperial units, the U-value is measured in British thermal units per hour per square foot per degree Fahrenheit (BTU/h·ft²·°F). In metric units, the U-value is measured in watts per square meter per degree Celsius (W/m²K). To convert from metric to imperial units, divide the metric U-value by 0.176110 and then multiply the result by 1.8 to convert from Celsius to Fahrenheit. To convert from imperial to metric units, divide the imperial U-value by 5.67826. Round the answer to the nearest tenth.
The U-value of a window is crucial to its energy efficiency. A window with a low U-value means that it is a better insulator and will keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This, in turn, will lead to lower energy bills as you won’t need to use as much heating or cooling to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.
3. How to Improve the U-Value of a Window?
Factors affecting U-Value
Several factors affect the U-value of a window, including the type of glass used, the number of panes, and the type of frame. The size and location of the window in the building also play a role in determining the U-value.
Ways to improve U-Value
One way to improve the U-value of a window is by using double or triple glazed windows. These windows have two or three panes of glass with a layer of gas or air between them, which acts as insulation. Another way to improve the U-value is by using low-emissivity glass. This glass has a special coating that reflects heat back into the room, keeping it warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
4. U-Value and Energy Efficiency
U-value is directly related to energy efficiency. A window with a low U-value is more energy-efficient and will help reduce your energy bills. If you’re looking to make your home more energy-efficient, installing windows with a low U-value is an excellent place to start.
5. Who Decides the U-Value of a Window?
Windows, doors, and skylights made in Canada are tested against the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) A440.2 standard. However those windows made in the United States must comply with the National Fenestration Rating Council.
The following accredited agencies may award certifications in Canada:
Some insulated glass units also bear the Insulated Glass Manufacturers Alliance mark. This then certifies the manufacturer can consistently build insulated units that will not fog and whose seals will not fail prematurely.
6. U-Value and Building Regulations
U-value is an essential factor in building regulations. In BC, building regulations require that new buildings’ windows have a U-value of less than 1.6. In the City of Vancouver, that new construction requirement for windows is to have a U-value less than 1.4. If you are building a new home, make sure you double check with your local building officials on the requirement, and communicate that to your window supplier to ensure meeting the regulations.
7. Different Types of Window Frames and Their U-Values
The type of window frame you choose can also affect the U-value of your windows. Some of the most common types of window frames include:
Timber frames – these are a popular choice for their traditional and natural look. However, they tend to have a higher U-value than other types of frames, and require regular maintenance.
uPVC frames – also known as vinyl windows. These are a more modern and cost-effective option that is known for its energy efficiency. uPVC frames have a low U-value and require minimal maintenance.
Aluminium frames – these are also known for their low maintenance and durability. Unless properly thermally broken, Aluminum frames are quite conductive and have a high U-value compared to other options.
Composite frames – these are a combination of different materials, including wood, uPVC, and aluminium. They offer a good balance between energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics, but often come with a much higher price tag.
8. Importance of Hiring a Professional for Window Installation
Proper installation of windows is crucial to ensuring their energy efficiency. A poorly installed window can result in drafts, air leakage, and other problems that can affect the U-value of the window. That’s why it’s essential to hire a professional to install your windows. A professional installer will ensure that your windows are properly sealed and fitted, which will improve their U-value and energy efficiency. Silverline Exterior Solutions takes great pride in ensuring they are well sealed against the surrounding walls all round. The last thing you want is lying awake at night listening to the sound of whistling wind.
9. Common Misconceptions about U-Value
There are several misconceptions about U-value that homeowners may have. Some of these misconceptions include:
The higher the U-value, the better – This is not true. A higher U-value means that more heat is lost through the window, which results in higher energy bills.
U-value only matters in colder climates – This is also not true. Even in warmer climates, windows with a low U-value can help keep your home cool and reduce your energy bills.
Triple glazing is always better than double glazing – While triple glazing can provide better insulation than double glazing, it’s not always necessary. The U-value of the window depends on several factors, including the type of glass and frame used, the size of the window, and its location in the building.
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, the U-value of a window is an important factor to consider when choosing windows for your home. A window with a low U-value is more energy-efficient and can help you save money on your energy bills. When selecting windows, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of glass, frame, and installation to improve the U-value of the window.
11. FAQs
1. What is the ideal U-value for windows?
The ideal U-value for windows varies depending on the building’s location, size, and climate. However, a U-value of 1.6 W/m²K or lower is generally considered to be energy-efficient.
2. How does U-value affect my energy bills?
The lower the U-value of a window, the more energy-efficient it is, which can help you save money on your energy bills.
3. What is the difference between U-value and R-value?
U-value measures the rate of heat loss through a window, while R-value measures the resistance of a material to heat flow. U-value and R-value are both important in determining the energy efficiency of a building.
4. Can I improve the U-value of my existing windows?
Yes, you can improve the U-value of your existing windows by adding insulating films or panels, using heavy curtains, or sealing gaps around the window frames.
5. What is the cost difference between single, double, and triple-glazed windows?
The cost of windows varies depending on the type of glass, frame, and installation. Triple-glazed windows tend to be more expensive than double-glazed windows, and double-glazed windows are more expensive than single-glazed windows. However, the energy savings you can achieve with more energy-efficient windows can offset the initial cost in the long run.
In summary, understanding the U-value of your windows is important when it comes to energy efficiency and cost savings. The lower the U-value, the more energy-efficient the window, which can lead to lower energy bills. Choosing the right type of window frame and glass, as well as hiring a professional to install your windows, can also help improve the U-value of your windows. You can call Silverline Exterior Solutions at (604)-942-0488 for non-obligated estimates, or email us at any time. Our mission is to provide state-of-the-art products and unparalleled customer relationships.
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