Residential: FAQ's
Do you have a question about your All-West Glass windows? Please use our Feedback Form to contact us with your questions. We will do our best to respond to you within 24 hours.
Residential: FAQ's
There are so many different kinds of windows. How do I pick the right ones?
Self-education is probably the best way to start in making a window choice that is right for you. There are many, many products in the window market place these days. Let us help you become an educated consumer. The Consumer Guide to Buying Windows by Natural Resources Canada is a good reference booklet.
Why should I buy windows from you instead of a big box store?
Windows and their many varied safety features, hardware options, and aestetical choices, are our specialty , not a sideline. Our professional staff are trained to help you sort through all your choices and we will spend the time to make sure your order is right.
How do I go about getting a broken window fixed?
If you experience a broken window or a seal failure, simply call your nearest All-West Glass location and our friendly Customer Service Representatives will be glad to answer your questions and organize for the repairs to be completed as soon as possible. We will either measure to order, or if it’s our own product, we will order from existing production sizes. Remember, we can fix or replace “all” windows, not just the ones you buy from us.
How do I go about getting a quote for replacement windows?
Call to set up an appointment at your local All-West Glass location. We will visit your home, cottage or business and discuss your needs, take measurements and give you a free quotation.
Do you have samples I can look at?
We have sample window displays in all of our locations as well as cut-away samples, glazing-type comparison charts and product display boards showing an assortment of window trim options to suit your project. Our sales staff are knowledgeable and can recommend the options best suited to your needs.
How do I replace the broken glass in my All-West Glass window or patio door?
A phone call or visit to the location you purchased the product from will be all that you need to do. If you have the original invoice, and the date the product was purchased, we may not have to measure.
How much time will it take to have my windows manufactured and installed?
Delivery times for your order and installation will vary depending on where you live and the time of the year. Summer and fall are our peak times and this can result in a longer wait because of heavy demands. Lead times for window manufacturing also vary according to the workload and the time of year. Your sales consultant will provide you with an appropriate time frame and keep you up-to-date on the progress of your order.
Who will install my windows?
Our qualified Glaziers are trained and professionally certified to install your new windows. Of course, some consumers would rather do their own installation or have a familiar contractor do the work for them. The choice is yours.
What do I have to do to prepare my home for the visit by an installer?
- Please move furniture away from the windows being changed, as well as covering sensitive electronic equipment and antiques with a tarp or cloth. Some dust is inevitable in a renovation situation.
- Remove existing drapes and blinds. If this is troublesome for you, our installers could assist you with this upon (prearranged) request.
- Take down pictures and other hanging items around the work space.
- Please keep children and pets at a safe distance for safety reasons.
Due to WCB and company safety regulations our installers may have to wear their safety boots in your home. When this is required, your flooring will be protected. Our sales reps have a brochure they will leave with you that outlines the preparation you will need to do for window or for door installations.
What if there is a problem with my windows or the installation?
Our windows will be fully covered by their manufacturers guarantee. You can request the specific detail of the guarantee at any time throughout the project. All-West Glass will guarantee installation workmanship for one full year after installation. If you have any concerns with the windows or their installation please contact your sales representative. All issues with window manufacturing or with the installation, will be co-coordinated through your sales representative.
Why are my windows drafty and will new windows stop the draft?
Drafty windows and air infiltration could have several causes. Improper installation is often the culprit – but not always. If the windows were improperly installed, the defects can normally be corrected without removing or replacing the window. Proper caulking and flashing should prevent perimeter air leakage.
However, if the installation twists the window frame (causing the sash weatherstrip not to be able to seal the sash to the frame), removal of the window may be necessary. If the problem is installation, you will have to work with the builder or a contractor to correct the problem. If the leak is between the frame and the sash and the window has been installed square, plumb, level and is not twisted or racked, the problem may be construction of the window or window design. If your windows are not efficient in your climate and particularly if the window does not have insulated glazing, the air may be simply cold room air flowing down the surface of the window. As the window surface becomes colder, it cools the room air next to it. This cooled room air is then heavier than the warmer room air and creeps further into the room. Because the cooled room air is heavier it sinks toward the floor and is replaced by warmer room air, which is then cooled. This process can result in noticeable air flow but it is not air leakage from the outside. Replacement of the window by an energy efficient window is the solution here.
If the problem is the construction of the window in a new house or a recent retrofit, you will have to work with the builder or contractor and the window manufacturer to correct the problem. Satisfaction will depend greatly on how the window was specified in your contract or by the builder and your ability to negotiate with these parties. You certainly should be entitled to receive what you specified and paid for. However, if the specification was vague or non-existent, you will most likely have to negotiate to improve your situation.
Will new windows eliminate condensation?
Condensation is a direct result of interior humidity and the difference between indoor and outside air temperature. If you keep the humidity in your house low, then the likelihood of experiencing condensation is also low. However, the efficiency of your window will also impact the temperature and humidity level at which condensation occurs. Energy efficient windows will help reduce condensation. Here’s why: high performance windows with low U-factors result in inside glass surface temperatures much closer to the room air temperature. Windows with warm edge technologies and non-metal frames are also less likely to have condensation on the frame or at the edge of the glass. Insulated “superwindows” with three or more layers will virtually eliminate condensation on the interior surface of the glass—even under extreme cold weather conditions.
Note that in certain conditions (humid mornings after a clear night sky), some superwindows may have dew on their outside surface. These windows are such good insulators, the dew is condensing there just like it does on an insulated wall.
Do you offer financing?
No, we suggest you work out the financing deals of your project with your financial institution.
How does vinyl compare to other materials used in manufacturing windows?
The UV stable plastics technology of today, and the relative ease of working with them makes them an attractive choice as a window frame material. They combine cost effective pricing with adequate strength, and non-yellowing durability as well as relatively low thermal transfer and good looks. Quality vinyl window frames provide good thermal performance and are very easy to maintain with minimal maintence costs. Vinyl can be reinforced to increase its strength but there are colour restrictions.
Do you offer any parts for windows?
Yes! We pride ourselves on our parts supply and parts finding abilities. We can usually source most items for residential, commercial, institutional windows and doors as well as some automotive and R/V parts. Please bring in the worn part to help us find the correct part more quickly. We also offer replacement glass and mirror for every application.
Can scratched glass be repaired?
Yes, light surface scratching can be polished away, however the deeper the damage the less likely all of it could be buffed away without distorting the surface. Scratch repair is costly and replacing the glass is most often more economical. Most repairs can never be brought back to the same optical quality as the original.
What is the best method for removing residue or other stubborn materials from glass?
Stickers, caulking and other adhesives are best removed by wetting the area with a quality glass cleaner, and gently scraping with a single edged razor blade. Other stubborn residues can be removed by buffing lightly with a very fine SOS or ScotchBright type pad and lots of glass cleaner or soapy water.
My All-West Glass door hardware has tarnished. Can the original appearance be restored?
Yes and No. Some solid brass items can be refinished and re-lacquered, however some finishes may require re-coating which could prove more costly than replacing the hardware. Some finishes have manufacturers warranties against tarnishing and can be repaired or replaced under warranty.
My All-West Glass product has damaged or broken hardware. How do I get it replaced?
Simply give your nearest All-West Glass location a call and we will be able to inform you if this item is covered by a warranty and whether the item is in stock. We should be able to have your issue corrected quickly and to your satisfaction.
Can I buy All-West Glass brand glass cleaner at your stores?
Yes! People come from far and wide to purchase our All-West Glass glass cleaner. Once you try it, you will never want to use any other.
I need a unique size or special shape window. Can All-West Glass help?
Of course! We have the experienced and informed staff that can assist you to find, design and manufacture a custom window to your unique needs. Whether you need bays or bows, curved, arched, angled, if you’d like round, hexagon, octagon, diamond or triangular. It would bring us pleasure to help you find the window you want. After all, windows are our business, not a sideline.
Are insect screens available for my replacement windows? What are the options?
Yes! Most of our window manufacturers provide insect screens with fiberglass mesh as a standard screen, however some do give options for tougher wire mesh, or even a tighter no see-um weave. With windows that are paintable many offer screen frame and hardware colors.