Imagine your home perched near the edge of Lake Ontario or the shoreline of Georgian Bay. It’s beautiful, but it also means your windows are constantly at odds with nature. The environmental stressors in coastal zones are no joke. They affect not just your view, but the structural integrity of your window frames.
Imagine looking out your window on a bright summer day and, without drawing a curtain, being able to dim the sunlight with the tap of a finger — or no tap at all. That’s the essence of smart glass. Unlike regular glass, which is static and passive, smart glass is dynamic. It changes its light transmission properties depending on environmental conditions or user input.
Privacy glass functions through several methods that alter the transparency of the glass surface. These methods range from mechanical modifications, like etching or sandblasting, to technological innovations such as smart glass systems. Understanding how each type works is essential to choosing the right one for specific needs.
Imagine trying to add a window to your basement. You cut into the foundation wall and install the window, but what’s to stop water, debris, or even soil from piling against the glass? That’s where a window well steps in.
Sliding windows, sometimes referred to as gliding or slider windows, are horizontal window design where one or more sashes slide past each other on a set of tracks. Unlike traditional double-hung or casement windows, sliding windows do not open outward or vertically — they move side-to-side.
Egress windows provide emergency exits, allowing occupants to escape quickly in dangerous situations, such as fires. But beyond safety, egress windows can improve natural light, enhance ventilation, and even add value to a home. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain what egress windows are, when they are needed, their regulatory requirements, the installation process, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.