Renovations

Perma Seal specializes in the renovation, and replacement of existing windows and doors in older homes where upgrading calls for the optimum in energy-efficiency as well as attractive appearance.

Our extensive selection of styles, shapes and construction materials will suit the needs of any new or remodeling project and allow for the finished product to blend with the existing exterior look.

Whether you are considering renovating, remodeling, planning new construction or just replacing worn out, broken or damaged units, Perma Seal will guarantee your satisfaction as they have since 1961.

Adding a Bay or Bow window to your existing home is an investment in your home’s future. Along with providing very practical living space, it adds a touch of class, something that never goes out of style.

Don’t stop there. Upgrade the rest of the windows in your home and make your home improvement investment complete.

What To Look For When Renovating Your Windows

To be sure you’re getting true value, use this checklist when comparing windows.

Design

  • Narrow slim-line frames that blend with any architecture
  • Clean and stylish appearance
  • Wide choice of styles
  • Custom sizes and designs available

Energy Efficiency

  • Built to provide high insulation value
  • Designed to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer
  • Screens out damaging UV rays
  • Impervious to wind and water

Dependable Construction

  • Built with superior manufacturing technology
  • Subjected to rigid inspection and quality control
  • Strong frames and sashes that won’t warp, shrink or swell

Performance

  • Smooth and consistent operation
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Windows coordinated to exterior products
  • Available with optional double or triple glazing

Vitually Maintenance-Free

  • Requires no scraping, painting or puttying

Reputation

  • Manufactured by an experienced company
  • Proven in a variety of applications
  • Manufacturer committed to the industry
  • Installation backed by local service and support
  • Quality assured by a Good Warranty

CHOOSING A SUPPLIER

 

Once you have decided to purchase new windows or doors — and you have a general idea of what you are looking for — it is time to choose a supplier.

Start with the Yellow Pages, with recommendations from friends or neighbours or by visiting home shows or dealers showrooms. Ask suppliers for general product literature and information.

Visit several suppliers to inspect their products. Look for the IGMAC label on the spacer bar in sealed units, or on the glass if a non-metallic spacer is used. The words Low-E should also be present if the unit contains a low emissivity coating. Ask to be shown the installed product in a home, and don’t hesitate to follow up on references provided by the supplier.

If you are satisfied that the product suits your needs and that the company has a good reputation, ask for a quote. Normally, the supplier will visit your home and take measurements for each door and window. Obtain quotes from at least three different suppliers.

When comparing costs and services, make sure that the products are comparable.

Once you have selected a supplier from your short list, negotiate a contract for the work to be done. The most common contracts are the "supply and install" and the "contractor supply and install".

Supply and Install

Under these contracts, the supplier sells and installs the windows. If you are buying replacement windows, you should request this type of arrangement. The advantage of a supply and install contract is that a single company is responsible for selling you the windows and installing them in your home. As well, since much of their business is by way of referrals, suppliers usually do a good job of installation to ensure that their customers are satisfied.

Contractor Supply and Install

If you are undertaking a major renovation, new windows could be installed by your general contractor, who will likely also arrange for their purchase. Listen carefully to your contractor’s opinions on the type of windows you should buy and who you should buy them from, but make the final decision yourself. The advantage of a contractor supply and install arrangement is that the contractor can also undertake the work, such as structural changes to the wall or repairs to the drywall and trim. A good contractor will make sure that the windows are properly installed and finished, inside and outside.

Do-it-yourself

Unless you are an experienced carpenter or handyman, window and door installation is not a do-it-yourself project. In particular, replacement windows should be installed by experts because of the need for an exact fit.

The Contract

Make sure you sign a contract before work begins. It should stipulate the full cost of the work, including taxes, and provide a detailed description of the windows.

Include in the contract the date by which you want the job completed. Finally, the contract should describe both the manufacturer’s and installer’s warranties.

(Energy, Mines and Resources Canada Consumer’s Guide 1990 Page 29)