Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Windows 7 Features, Benefits and Testing

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On Thursday, October 22, Windows 7 was released to consumers. Windows 7 was designed from inception to be an upgrade to the Windows line of operating systems while at the same time remaining compatible with the hardware and applications Windows Vista was compatible with.

The new Windows 7 interface is more intuitive and user friendly than its predecessors. The design of Windows 7 is clean and sleek, and its taskbars and windows look somewhat similar to those of a Mac. One key feature of Windows 7 is the built-in multi-touch mapping application, which allows users to interact with graphical applications with a touch of a finger. A primary benefit of the Windows 7 operating system is performance improvement over its predecessor Windows Vista. Microsoft has even created a "Starter" version of Windows 7 that is compatible with netbooks - mobile computers with limited hardware performance and capabilities.
Technologies Benefiting from Windows 7
Graphics chips, such as those from ATI and NVIDIA, benefit greatly from Windows 7. DirectX 11, a software technology that provides the APIs necessary for detailed graphics and audio, will enable the next generation of graphics technology. It is the perfect technology for the detail-oriented PC gamer or game developer interested in fluid game play and more realistic worlds and characters.
The new Intel Core i7 processor can also take advantage of the Windows 7 operating system to provide unmatched speed and optimized performance to PCs. With Intel Core i7, running multiple applications and creating digital media without sacrificing computer performance are possible. Windows 7 developers focused heavily on ensuring the operating system was fully compatible with and could take advantage of the multiple cores offered on modern processors such as the Intel i7 chip.
32 bit vs. 64 bit Architecture
Windows 7 is available in both 32 bit and 64 bit versions. The 32 or 64 bit architecture refers to the memory address length that the processor can reference and impacts the amount of memory that can be used. Most likely, a PC that is more than a couple years old will only be capable of running the 32 bit version. A PC with a modern processor has the ability to run the 64 bit version.
The amount of memory that can be used for a 32 bit CPU is 4 GB. To experience the speed improvements of a 64 bit operating system, software optimized for 64 bit processing is required.
Windows 7 Versions
Consumers, IT managers and other IT decision makers will need to evaluate Windows 7 to determine which version of the software is right for them. Microsoft offers Windows 7 in a variety of packages. Each package contains features and benefits targeted at a specific group of users. This evaluation should be made carefully as the versions range in price, and not all features will be applicable to all users. The six versions of Windows 7 are outlined below.
Windows 7 Editions
Windows 7 Starter: Windows 7 Starter is the most basic edition. It does not include the Windows Aero theme, and is offered in 32-bit only.
Windows 7 Home Basic: The Home Basic edition is available in emerging markets, such as Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Pakistan and Thailand. Aero options and some other new features are not included in this edition.
Windows 7 Home Premium: Home Premium is designed for personal users and includes features such as the Windows Media Center, Windows Aero and Multi-touch. Microsoft touts the entertainment experience of using Home Premium and emphasizes the simplicity of creating a home network with Home Premium to share photos, videos and music.
Windows 7 Professional: Windows 7 Professional is designed for power users and small business users. It includes all of the Windows 7 Home Premium features and also includes the ability to participate in a Windows Server domain and operate as a remote desktop server. Additional features include location aware printing, encrypting file system, presentation mode and the ability to run many Windows XP productivity programs in Windows XP Mode.
Windows 7 Enterprise: Enterprise is designed for business PCs and includes a feature called BitLocker Drive Encryption, designed to help protect data against loss or theft and allows users to work in the language of their choice and switch between 35 languages.
Windows 7 Ultimate: Ultimate includes all the features that Enterprise offers, but is designed for individual use. Windows 7 Professional users have the option to upgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate for a fee using Windows Anytime Upgrade.
Windows 7 Testing
When creating Windows 7, Microsoft focused efforts on creating the highest performing, feature rich and bug free PC operating system to date. Accomplishing this goal in the modern PC market means that the operating system and software on the operating system, such as music, movie or photo programs, must interoperate and work with millions of devices in the consumer electronics ecosystem. To achieve this goal, Microsoft relies on testing, certification and stringent logo guidelines, all aimed to achieve the best possible experience for users of Windows 7.
For many devices, using a Windows Logo requires more than just a Windows certification. To receive a Windows logo for a Bluetooth device, the device must first achieve Bluetooth certification, and to use a Windows logo for an IEEE 1394 (FireWire) device, the product must first be certified with the 1394 Trade Association.
A new requirement asserts that manufacturers seeking Windows 7 certification for their products must first achieve USB certification from the USB Implementers Forum. USB certification helps ensure that a device will function properly with the Windows OS. This certification ensures compliance to the USB standard and interoperability between the USB host and device.
There are many tests required at various levels of the software and hardware ecosystem to provide a coherent and smooth computing experience. Consumers benefit from these requirements as they reassure that devices bearing the Windows and Bluetooth, FireWire and certified USB logos will work with PCs also bearing the respective logos.

Types of Windows

Windows are to a room as a pearl necklace is to the throat of a woman. They both set off the other. Windows come in many sizes, shapes and kinds. They also provide four vital functions: let in light and air (ventilation), provide protection and visual beauty. What kind is provided in a room depends on many factors. Some of the most common types are described below.
Bay Windows: A kind of architectural enhancements to a room - these windows project out beyond the exterior wall to create an illusion of a larger interior. The conventional ones are three sided with the two side windows returning to the wall at an angle. They let in a lot of natural light and sometimes allow a fantastic view of the outside.
Because of the nature of a bay window, window treatments require special care. If they look out into a secluded area(they usually do not), then the nature of treatment required is fairly simple and has only to complement the style and décor of the interior of the room. But if it looks out into the public, then the treatment has to be more thoughtful. Some ideas for the treatment of bay windows include bay window curtains, valances, window shades and window blinds. The treatment has to be both functional and aesthetic as it is open to public view.
The use of the space created by the bay window also requires some imagination. Since there is ample light, one idea would be to keep some indoor plant for effect. Some seating arrangement, the seats in conformity to the style of the other furniture in the room is another option. So is the addition of accessories like a large vase on one side of the window or two smaller ones on both side of the window will enhance the beauty of the room and the window.
There are two variations of the conventional bay window, the "box" and the "circle" bay windows. As the names imply, the box bay window is shaped like a box, the side windows being perpendicular to the exterior walls and the circle bay is semi-circular in shape. The box bay creates more space than the other two.
Oriel Windows: These are similar to bay windows in that they project from the walls but are polygonal in shape and do not extend to the ground and are therefore found in the upper stories of a building. They originated as a variation of a porch and are commonly found in buildings built in the Gothic Revival style or the Queen Anne style of architecture. They are now becoming common in modern design. Compared to the more common bay windows of the conventional, the box and the circular type they allow more light and more significantly better ventilation due to the larger surface exposed to the exterior.
Usually supported by "corbels", a weight bearing stone piece that is ornamentally carved in stone houses, they can also be supported by metal or wooden brackets. Considering that oriels appear in homes with an elaborate style, these supporting brackets can also be quite ornamental. This type of window is also popular in the Middle East where they are known as "mashrabiyas" and are usually for the convenience of women folk who can look out from these windows without being seen and gives them a sense of freedom. They can also be seen in India.
Casement Windows: These were the most common type of windows that were in use before the introduction of the sash windows. Casement windows open like doors, swinging either in or out like a door. Unlike a door, the casement window is opened by the use of a crank (or some variation) and not by a knob or a handle. The casement window either pivots to the right or to the left. One of the disadvantages of a casement window is that there is the possibility of children falling out while looking out. Another disadvantage is that they are more exposed to the elements - rain, sunshine, snow, sleet and more depending on the place where you live and are likely to get weathered faster.
A variation of the casement window that either pivots(swings) to the left or to the right is the one that swings upwards, i.e., top-hung. They are called "awning windows" and are usually rectangular, wider than longer.
Paired Windows: These are two windows placed next to each other with a support between them called a "mullion" which is nothing but a vertical frame that provides a separation between the two glass panes. Usually paired windows come under an arch or will have arched tops. They look better in large rooms since they themselves are relatively larger.
Palladian Windows: Named after the Italian Architect Andrea Palladio, a palladian window is made up of three windows with an arch over the center window which is also usually larger than the other two. It is also known as the Serlian or the Venetian Window.
Ribbon Windows: These are nothing but a row of windows separated by vertical posts called "mullions". They are an extension of the paired widow and are used usually in places where added lighting and ventilation is required and are usually found up high on a wall. Such windows, if installed very near the ceiling are called "clerestory" windows. They bring day light deep into the interior of the house and add to the feeling of roominess. They also are a source of solar heating and keep the room warm even in the long winter days.
These are some of the more common types of windows. Other types include the jalousie(louvered), the hopper (opposite to the awning), the cathedral, the French etc. What kind of window you use depends on your individual taste.

Wood Sliding Sash Windows - Environmental Concerns and Advice For Buyers

For UK homeowners who want an authentic look in their older or period homes, wood sliding sash windows are a popular choice. While wood sash windows are both affordable and attractive, many Britons have concerns about the environmental implications of using so much wood. Many wonder if PVC sash windows aren't a more earth-friendly choice. PVC sash window, however, have their own set of problems, not the least of which is that they are not biodegradable. Here's some information about wooden sash windows that might help consumers make an informed choice.
If you're a consumer who is conscious that the choices we make in the present may have far-reaching effects on future generations. While many people are concerned about the high levels at which wood is consumed for building products like wood sash window, we need to remember that wood is a renewable resource that can be farmed like vegetables and fruit. Although the time to maturity is longer, "tree farms" are common in many countries worldwide.
Timber sash window utilize both soft- and hardwoods in their construction. So, when shopping for replacement windows, try to determine the source of the wood from which they are constructed. Such sources should be only managed forests where sustainability and renewability are paramount concerns.
Why Not to Buy PVC or Aluminum Window
Although the argument for buying PVC or aluminum window might seem valid on the surface, in truth it's defective. For example, did you know that over 33% of the chemicals listed as hazardous by EU governments are used in the manufacture of PVC? The energy cost of converting these dangerous substances to PVC and then to sash windows is much higher than the energy cost of converting trees to wooden sliding sash windows. In addition, wood is biodegradable and recyclable where PVC is not. Both the World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace have endorsed the use of wood window because they do not compromise or threaten the environment.
More Reasons to Buy Wood Window
Consumers must remember that using timber from managed forests is environmentally sound not only because wood is biodegradable and recyclable but also because wood, if properly used, treated and maintained can last indefinitely. In fact, a wooden statue that dates back to 2300 BC was recently found in a tomb in Sakkara, a burial site associated with the ancient Egyptian city of Memphis. Wooden sliding sash windows also have insulating properties superior to those made from PVC. This means homes with wooden windows are highly likely to have lower heating and cooling costs. To be truly earth-friendly, timber sliding sash window should be finished with water-based stains and sealers rather than with solvent-based products that can harm the environment and pollute ground water.
Sliding sash windows are an important architectural detail in many UK homes. Considering environmental factors when choosing replacements is an important aspect of any purchasing decision.
Morris Streak has been installing timber and sash windows for the last 20 years. He is focused exclusively on the sash windows and timber window market. Since that time, he has shown hundreds of homeowners how to properly install sash and timber windows in their homes. By eliminating salesmen and installers, the owner of a typical 3 bedroom, 2 bath home can save thousands of dollars in costs, while at the same time ensuring that each window is done correctly.
Morris is also a dedicated member of Premier Windows Ltd - The goal is to provide the highest quality windows and workmanship in order to truly enhance the aesthetic of your home. To achieve this, we install only the best, most secure and energy efficient windows and doors. Premier Windows Ltd. specialises in sash and timber windows and to be more specific, Premier deals best in double glazed sash windows, sash window repair, sliding sash windows, timber sash windows, wood sash windows, timber frame windows, timber replacement windows,timber windows and doors, timber windows UK.

Glass Block Windows - 5 Steps For Installation Success

Like many product categories the installation options for glass block windows have grown proportionately to the expanding design options. Years ago, blocks were made in a 8" x 8" x 4" size in a few patterns and put together inside a masonry window opening (usually by a skilled mason) block by block with a gray mortar and masons sand - not real sexy, but it worked. In today's world people want to use blocks more creatively in different types of openings (could be masonry, framed, steel openings etc.) for a wide variety of uses, and not have to rely strictly on a mason to get the job done. The following 5 installation steps can help you think through what's needed to have your block window installation project go smoothly.
o Step 1 - Ask, "What size is my window opening?"- The size of the opening is a large factor in the window installation approach. There are two basic ways to install a glass block window:
* (Option 1) As a window panel alone, or as a panel built into a vinyl or metal framed window system.
* (Option 2) installing the glass blocks one by one inside of the opening.
A benefit of glass block is it's a heavy material, the challenge is it's a heavy material when you're installing it! For most openings less than 25 square feet consider option 1, the block window built as panel (or section) vs. option 2. Option 2 is usually more difficult, costly, and requires a higher skill level. For the first option you can get a block window panel built by a glass block window manufacturer, often saving time and money.
o Step 2 - Ask, "Where is this block window going?" A key factor in the block window installation is if the glass window is going in new construction or a remodeling project, and whether the surrounding construction is masonry (poured concrete or concrete blocks) or frame (surrounded by wood). Here are some recommendations for each job condition:
* New construction projects in framed openings - For new construction framed openings use a vinyl framed nail in glass block window. Consult your glass window manufacturer for the size to create your rough framed opening. These windows (which are usually siliconed together for an all glass look) can be purchased with nailing fins to simply nail in from the outside just like a traditional vinyl window in new construction. Since they can be manufactured with the 2" thick series of blocks (in either a high privacy "Ice" pattern or "Wave" pattern from Mulia Inc.) they are lighter than traditional block windows. These windows can also be purchased for the 3" and 4" thick series of blocks as well if you'd like to try one of the upscale designed Beveled or Spyra series of blocks from Pittsburgh Corning.
* New construction projects in masonry openings - For most masonry openings under 25 square feet it is best to purchase mortared or siliconed block panels that can be set into the opening and mortared in at the top (also called the head), sides (also called the jambs), and bottom (also called the sill).
* Remodeling projects in framed openings -
- (Option A) If you can adjust your openings to fit one of the vinyl framed glass block windows you can install your project like a standard vinyl replacement window (make sure the window manufacturer takes the window nailing fins off for this type of installation) by placing the vinyl window in the opening, insulating around the window, and installing aluminum coil stock capping to meet the glass block window.
- (Option B) If you can't adjust your existing wood opening then remove the existing window sashes and mortar the glass block into the wood opening and install aluminum coil stock to the block and caulk where the coil stock meets the glass masonry units.
* Remodeling projects in masonry openings (concrete blocks or poured walls) - In remodeling projects measure the entire size of the masonry openings with the existing frame being removed (the only time you don't remove the metal or wood frames is when the frame is either seated over the concrete blocks or poured walls and removing them might cause damage to the surrounding interior or exterior walls). Then size your block window panels to be smaller than the masonry openings (these block windows can be sized basically in any 2" size increment). The window panels can then be mortared into the openings.
o Step 3 - Ask, "What should I use to put the glass block together into a window panel assembly?" - You might have heard varied opinions about how the block panel should be assembled (the most common methods are using mortar or silicone). While some companies may tell you that only one method is correct, they are often just trying to get people to buy the fabrication method they prefer. You should choose that method where the panel size is going to fit best into the opening (making sure the joints do not exceed 1" around the window). Included below you'll find some advantages of both the mortar and silicone systems:
- Advantages of Mortar over Silicone - Mortar is the traditional way to build a block window. The advantages of this system are the ability to vary the size of the mortar joint (helpful when you have an odd size), the mortar joints can be finished to match the existing masonry, and it's very difficult to break a block out of mortared joint.
- Advantages of Silicone - Silicone is preferred if you like an all glass look to your panel, or if you need a smaller window in an opening (silicone joints are smaller than mortar joints), and transportation is safer because the glass window will stay together better than with mortar.
o Step 4 -Ask, "How do I handle an opening greater than 25 square feet?" - When openings become larger than 25 square feet (mostly in commercial, architectural and institutional projects) it is often better to build the window block by block within the opening (this is because the panels would need to become larger, heavier, and are more difficult to handle). With openings of this size you will need to keep the following installation points in mind:
* The window usually requires a "soft joint" at the top (head), and sides (jambs) of the opening - Windows greater than 25 square feet need more space for expansion and contraction requiring glass block caulk be used at the jambs and head of the opening along with an expansion strip. For larger openings an aluminum channel will also help with concerns regarding wind loads.
* Structural steel or aluminum may be required - To allow for wind loads and structural safety larger openings (greater than 20 feet high for 4" blocks and 10 feet high for 3" blocks, and 25 feet wide for 4" blocks and 15 feet wide for 3" blocks) there should be a metal stiffener put into the glass block window. This stiffener could be a metal hidden plate, an I beam, or a T shaped mullion of steel behind the window/wall.
o Step 5 - Ask, "What should I do if my skills or physical abilities don't allow me to do this type of installation?" - Call a specialty glass block contractor or find a nationwide glass block window manufacturer (to make a pre-made glass panel) to make contract out the installation of this window. This will ease the process, reduce cost, and improve the quality of the block window installation project.
Now that you've got the 5 installation steps you're ready to either to get your hands dirty or hire the right specialty glass block contractor for your project.
Mike Foti is President of Innovate Building Solutions (with divisions including Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block and Mid America Glass Block of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron and Vice President Eastern Glass Block of New Jersey and New York). These companies are nationwide suppliers, glass block window manufacturers, and installation contractors of glass block windows, showers, walls, and specialty colored glass blocks.

Benefits of Vinyl Replacement Windows

Vinyl replacement windows are a great way to increase the resale value, curb-appeal, and style of your home. Early vinyl replacement windows were not very popular, but advances in design and improved technology have made vinyl windows a desirable addition to homes everywhere. Many of today's replacement windows meet requirements that older wood-frame and metal windows couldn't possibly match.
Frames
Probably the greatest benefit of today's vinyl windows is the quality of construction. These high-quality windows are fusion-welded at the corners to form a structurally sound frame. The frames themselves are strong, watertight, and airtight.
Another great benefit of vinyl windows is that they will never need sealing or painting, as traditional wood windows do. The vinyl window frames are extremely durable and will withstand fading and discoloration much better than wood frames.
The high quality of today's vinyl windows can also offer superior security over older windows. Many vinyl replacement windows are available with a wide range of locking devices designed to give your home exceptional security.
Glass
Today's vinyl replacement windows use high-grade products and ingenuity to deliver high-performance. Most vinyl windows use double or triple-paned glass units. These units create an insulation barrier of air, which provides protection from damaging elements, higher energy-efficiency, and greater sound protection.
These airtight layers of protection are key to the high standards of energy-efficiency that today's vinyl replacement windows offer. Each manufacturer's windows are submitted to an energy-efficiency test conducted by a government-backed program. These tests are meant to determine the window's U-value, or U-factor.
The U-value is a measurement that represents the rate in which heat passes through the window. The lower the U-value assigned to the window, the lower the amount of heat allowed to pass through the window. The windows with the lowest U-value receive Energy-Star ratings, which can be claimed as a tax write-off. These windows can offer tremendous savings on monthly electric bills, by keeping in heat or cool air.
Ease of Use
The function of vinyl windows also typically last longer than wood-frame windows. This is because wood will tend to swell and retract in reaction to changes in temperature and humidity. Over time, this swelling and retraction may cause the wooden window frame to become misshapen. If this happens, the window will become more difficult to slide or close properly.
Choice of Options
Vinyl replacement windows come in a large variety of styles, sizes, and colors. All replacement windows are custom-made in order to properly match your home's existing windows, so size is no hindrance.
Replacement windows are available in many styles, including casement windows, double-hung windows, bay and bow windows, and sliders with two, three, or more sashes. At first, vinyl windows were only manufactured in white, but today most manufacturers offer many color options to match the existing features of your home. Windows can be ordered with solid colors, two-toned, or with wood-grains. You can even purchases windows with one color on the exterior, and with a wood-grain finish on the interior.
Vinyl windows offer the same style features found on other top-quality windows. Divided light grids, decorative glass, tilt-out sashes, and high-efficiency locking systems allow for many options.
Vinyl replacement windows offer many great values for your home. They are an excellent way to add value to your home, giving them a positive cost-to-benefit ratio. If you desire to add security, style, and savings to your home, vinyl replacement windows should be one of your first considerations.
Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent for Richmond Window Corporation. The Renewal by Andersen replacement window dealer provides window installation throughout the central Virginia area. For more information on their replacement windows Richmond Virginia please visit their website.

New! Creative Ideas on Choosing your Window Covering Style

Window coverings have a process on how you should choose your window curtains and drapes. You have three basic choices to decide from on what window treatment is best for your homes decor. You first have to decide whether you want informal or formal window coverings? Secondly unlined or lined? And thirdly the style and type of heading desired. After you have decided on the type of window treatment you are looking for you can start to finalize the design. Window coverings are influenced by several elements, which include the function of the space, the style of the architecture of the home, and the window treatment preferences of the homeowner. The resulting factor is the same window design can be treated very differently depending on the person's taste. Imagine a dining room that has a bay window. This type of window style is usually a multi layered floor length window treatment - basically it's a formal window covering. If your taste is a more casual laid-back style you may introduce an informal appearance of café curtains with some sill length and some tied back side panels.
What is a full formal window treatment?
A formal window covering usually will have two or three layers. The first layer may be the casement curtain and will be installed within your Windows trim area. Usually you would use a sheer, solid or maybe a lace panel that will lay straight or either gathered at the top. Over draperies usually called just draperies will be your second layer. Generally they will cover the trim and window and if there is room left stretched further to each side or even the area that is above your window. Optionally the third layer of your full formal window treatment will be a valance this is also known as pelnet that horizontally runs across the top of your window and will cover the curtain or drapery heading. Another piece of the formal window treatment is a hard valance, also known as a lanbre-quin or a cornice. It is normally made with wood, which is then covered with upholstery or some fabric. To some people by not using the third treatment it will appear like the window covering is unfinished but in all sense this depends on the taste and style that you are trying to obtain. By using heavy but curious fabrics which would include brocades, Tapestries, silks, Damasks and velvet you will enhance the prestige of the formal treatment. The downside of these fabrics is that they will require cleaning from professionals every couple of years.
What is an Informal window treatment?
An informal window treatment can consist of one or two basic layers or you may decide on having nothing at all. If you have a great window location with privacy a beautiful window can look great even without a dressing especially if you have a great view. Sometimes just some basic casement curtains look great for a casual room. If you need to cover only the lower half of the window a Café curtain can offer you privacy and not block the light. Fabrics that are used for the informal look consist of chitz, ticking, linen, muslin and gingham. A benefit to the informal window coverings over the formal window coverings is that most of these are washable and easy to take care of.
Window drapes and curtain linings
Depending whether you have a formal or informal curtain or drape covering it will often decide if your window treatment will be lined. Factors will include the amount of natural light you want in your room and the length of time you expect the arrangement will last. Unlined curtains diffuse daylight but won't exclude it. Being the simplest form for your window covering it is still very effective by itself as a window under treatment. The unlined treatment doesn't have the extra thickness of a lining and will stack lightly back. A good choice is to use a fabric that looks attractive from both sides so there will not be a right or wrong side for the inside or outside of your window covering. Classic choices for unlined treatments would consist of lace, mobile, Muslim and sheers that are made out of cotton or silk organza. You may even have textured fabrics that have open weaves; an unlined curtain will filter the light beautifully and give you some privacy in the evening when the lamp is on. Try consolidating sheers with window blinds and shades. Unlined curtain drawbacks are the damage from the sunlight on the window treatment because there is no lining for your window fabric for protection it will deteriorate rapidly.

Wild West Window Installation

Wild West Window Installation - How To Install A Vinyl Window Now you may think you know how to install a window. Chances are... you don't. You might be asking yourself; "Why would this guy know more than I do?". Trust me, most installers who have been installing windows for 20 years have no idea how to properly install a window. Yeah right! What makes you such an expert? Well to start with I'm a Certified Window Installer. I was until a few months ago the Inspector for the Siding and Window Dealers Association of Canada in Calgary. I was often referred to as "the Association's best inspector" I don't know if that was true, but I heard it many times. The reason I left the association was that I was unhappy that the Association would not enforce their own rules, making my work useless. I started building houses in 1982 and have built all the windows and doors in my own house out of oak. I know windows. Manufacturers sell windows with nailing fins. These nailing fins are commonly used to hold the window in place without any other support. As I have described in a previous article, this is wrong. There's a very important document titled CSA A440.4-07. This is the correct method of installing a window. Now, it's 114 pages long and I'm not going to try to cover everything in this article. Is it required by the Building Code? Yes, at least in Alberta and I suspect everywhere else in Canada. Article 5.10.1.1. Environmental Separation of the Alberta Code lists this CSA Standard. The Standard itself states that it is supplemental to any Manufacturers' Installation Instructions. That means that whatever the manufacturers' instructions are, you still have to comply with this Standard. Are Installers complying with the Standard? No. I estimate that more than 90% of the windows installed do not comply with the Standard. That includes new homes and renovations. So if you've just had windows installed, chances are they're installed wrong. If the odds were that good in Vegas, my money would be on the table. "My widows work fine! They look great and the Installer cleaned up nicely when he was done. What's the difference?" The difference is durability. If you were to put new windows in your house the bill would probably exceed $10,000. 00, larger houses would be more. How long would you like those windows to last? If the window is not supported properly, the window will sag and shift. Most windows today are made of vinyl, the vinyl will only take so much stress. As the window sags, the frame will crack, or the glass may break. Recently, I inspected a new home. I opened a casement window and found that I could not close it. The frame had sagged and the window no longer fit the frame. This was brand new! I thought that the window could be re-installed, but after talking to the Manufacturer's Rep. I learned that the window could not be salvaged and would have to be replaced. The Manufacturer was supplying the window free of charge to the Builder, because they didn't want to lose the Builder as a customer. If widows are not installed properly they will fail prematurely, how prematurely will depend on how badly they were installed.

Monday, October 1, 2012

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What to Know About the Different Types of Windows For Your Home

Windows
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Finding the perfect window for your home can be a daunting task when you are not familiar with the different types of windows available. Finding the perfect windows for homeowners is our mission as we take a great deal of pride in our expertise in windows. We are always ready to help with the installation and offer free estimates.
Windows are like the eyes of the home, bringing in light, creating spaciousness, providing ventilation and giving you access to a view outside.
There are lots of stylish types to choose from. Below, we'll talk about the Pros & Cons of each window type, as well as proper placement and home decor. Looking to install a window in your basement, for instance? Try a hopper window. Want a window that can open fully? A casement window may be just what you're looking for. Check out the windows below, then browse through our convenient Window Gallery to for top design photos.
There are many types of windows to choose from. Below we will discuss about the Pros & Cons of each window type, as well as proper placement and home décor. For example, if you want a window that can open fully, try a casement window. Trying to install a window in your basement? Try a hopper window. Check out the window types below and browse through our convenient window gallery to look for your perfect window type
Bay Windows
Pros - Bay windows are perfect for creating an open, peaceful feel indoors. Their multiple views allow light to stream in from different angles. Plus, the sides of the window can be opened for air circulation. Bay windows have the ability to dress up any home with uniqueness and style. Replacing a flat window with a bay can completely change the amount of light that room receives. They're primarily used for kitchens, but can also add character to family rooms and master bedrooms.
Cons - Only the sides of bay windows open and typically don't come with screens, so incoming pests could be a problem.
 
Awning Windows
Pros - Awning windows are designed to provide light and breeze. They can be opened slightly to allow ventilation. These windows are also great for maintaining privacy while allowing light to stream in. They can be positioned in a variety of places: next to other windows, arranged in columns, or placed above large patio doors to create a wall of light and fresh air.
Cons - Screens for awning windows are set on the inside, which can mean that all the dirt and dust that normally falls into the sash makes its way onto your floors instead.
Double Hung Windows
Pros - Double hung windows are chosen for their unique style, ease of access and superior ventilation capabilities. They are great for kids' rooms as the top of the window can be opened while the bottom remains closed. Double hung windows be installed practically anywhere in your home. They're perfect for kitchens, offices and bedrooms.
Cons - Double hung windows tend to leak more air than other windows. Also, only half of this window opens up, whereas different types can open completely.
Casement Windows
Pros - Casement windows open outward for light, fresh air and side breezes. They're tightly sealed for energy efficiency and great for hard-to-reach places, such as over sinks and appliances in the kitchen. Casements crank open, as opposed to sliding up and down, making them easier to maneuver.
Cons - If you're moving into an older home, check on the stability of your casement hinges and hardware. Though casements are usually tough to break into, faulty or rusty hardware increases your risk factor. Make sure to consult with a professional for replacement parts or quality new casements.
Picture Windows
Pros - Picture windows create unobstructed views of the outdoors. They're best in areas where ventilation isn't a big concern. If you want better lighting, try installing them high on the walls of dark rooms and hallways. When combined with patio doors or open-and-close windows, picture windows can bring the perfect balance of light and ventilation.
Cons - These windows are for looks only. In addition, the large expanse of glass can make them more vulnerable to breakage.
Jalousie Windows
Pros- Jalousies are made of glass slats set in metal clips that can be opened and closed in unison. Also called a louvered window, a jalousie is made like a glass shutter. This type of window is manually rotated to open or close the overlapping panels as required, and can be opened by degrees to control how much air or light passes through.
Cons - Jalousie windows are best suited for areas with year-round comfortable climates as they help cool a home, but are impossible to seal, making it difficult to keep heat and A/C air inside and extreme weather out.
Hopper Windows
Pros- These popular windows are most often installed in basements. The hopper window is basically a casement window flipped on its side. The entire pane tilts inward to open, allowing for maximum ventilation.
Cons- Hopper windows can make privacy and home decor an issue. Because they tilt into the room, blinds, shades and other window dressings are difficult to use in conjunction with hopper windows. Also, they're usually placed in basements, so there's an added security risk for any windows installed at ground level. Their tilt designs also make them a poor choice for ventilation on a rainy day; water will drip right into the room.
We hope you have a better idea of the different types of replacement windows [http://betterwindowsupply.com] and what kind of window you're looking for. The next step is to consult with a professional for quick, same-day installations.