Modern homes are built tighter than ever. High-performance windows, continuous insulation, and airtight construction have greatly improved energy efficiency, but they have also introduced a new challenge: stale indoor air. Without a steady exchange of fresh outdoor air, humidity and pollutants accumulate, affecting both comfort and health. According to Natural Resources Canada, adequate mechanical ventilation…
Category: Articles
Security Upgrades for Patio Doors: A Guide to Locks, Glass, and Sensors
Patio doors bring light, connection, and ease to daily living. Their broad glass panels frame the outdoors and blur the line between inside and out. Yet those same design features can create vulnerabilities. Large panes, simple latches, and easy access from the backyard make patio doors a common weak point in home security. Modern building…
Window Placement for Small Homes: A Guide to Light, Privacy, and Layout
In small homes, space must do double duty. Every wall, corner, and window has to serve both form and function. That’s why window placement isn’t just an aesthetic choice – it’s a fundamental part of how a compact home feels and works. The right window can make a small space feel larger, brighter, and more…
Dark Exterior Palettes with Warm Wood Interiors: A Guide to Timeless Pairings
Across Canada and beyond, dark exterior palettes are redefining modern architecture. Deep shades of black, bronze, and charcoal create bold, sculptural facades that stand out against natural landscapes. Yet, while these finishes look sleek from the street, they can feel cold or severe inside. That’s why many homeowners and architects are pairing dark exteriors with…
Interior Air Quality & Windows: Natural Ventilation vs. Mechanical Systems
As modern homes become more airtight to conserve energy, a new challenge has emerged: how to maintain healthy air indoors. Energy-efficient windows and insulation keep conditioned air inside, but they also limit the natural exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Without proper ventilation, pollutants, humidity, and stale air can accumulate, compromising comfort and health. According…
Picture vs. Fixed vs. Direct-Set: A Guide to Sightlines and Costs
When choosing windows for a new build or renovation, large inoperable designs often top the wish list. Homeowners may ask for a “picture window” to frame a view, only to hear other terms like “fixed” or “direct-set” from their builder or supplier. While they might sound interchangeable, these terms describe different construction methods with real…
Energy Modeling Basics: How U-Factor and SHGC Affect HVAC Sizing
When designing a new home or major renovation, windows and HVAC systems are often treated as separate choices. In reality, they’re tightly linked. The efficiency of your windows directly affects how large your furnace or air conditioner needs to be. Energy modeling provides the missing connection. By analyzing how your home gains and loses heat…
How to Choose the Right Installer: Certifications, References, and Workmanship
Even the best, most energy-efficient window will underperform if installed poorly. Gaps, leaks, and uneven frames can erase the efficiency you paid for and even void your warranty. That’s why choosing the right installer is just as important as selecting the right window. This guide explores what defines a qualified installer, how to evaluate their…
Condensation Between Panes: IGU Failure Signs and Replacement Paths
Fog or moisture trapped between the panes of your windows can be an unwelcome sight. Unlike surface condensation that wipes away easily, fog inside the glass signals a deeper problem – a failed Insulating Glass Unit (IGU). Once the seal around the glass breaks, air and moisture enter the space where insulating gas should be,…
Custom Garden Windows: A Beautiful & Functional Addition to Any Home
Looking to add more light, life, and charm to your home? A custom garden window might be exactly what you need. These projecting windows act like a mini greenhouse, letting in tons of natural light while giving you space to grow herbs, flowers, or succulents indoors. Whether you’re planning a kitchen upgrade, reimagining a cozy…
