PRODUCT CARE

PRODUCT CARE


Our windows and patio doors are designed for beauty, efficiency and longevity. However, periodic care and maintenance is necessary to help keep our products attractive and functioning efficiently. Yearly maintenance of the manufactured products is necessary to maintain proper function. 

Our windows and patio doors are designed for beauty, efficiency and longevity. However, periodic care and maintenance is necessary to help keep our products attractive and functioning efficiently.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General

  • What is Low E / Argon?

    Low E stands for low emissivity. Emissivity measures how much radiant heat is transferred through glass. Low E is a metallic coating on the inside glass pane of a sealed unit. This coating will help to reflect Radiant heat back into your home (helps lower heating bills in the winter) and it will keep external sources of radiant heat outside (helps reduce cooling costs in the summer). The low E coating will also filter out approximately 50 percent of the UV and other harmful rays which will reduce fading of carpets and window coverings. 


    Argon is an insulating gas. Argon has greater insulating properties than air as well as being odourless and non-toxic.

  • What is thermal edge spacer?

    Thermal edge spacer or warm edge spacer refers to the edge around the glass. A sealed unit is comprised of two pieces of glass joined at the edges with some form of spacer and sealed to keep moisture and air out. Traditionally the spacer material between the two panes of glass was made of aluminium. This material has a high thermal transfer, therefore bringing the cold in at the edges of the glass. The newer warm edge spacer bars are made of low conductivity materials. There are many different types and brands of warm edges spacer and they will vary in their effectiveness. The most important thing is to make sure you have warm edge spacer because it will increase the overall energy rating of the window and reduce condensation on the inside of the window.

  • How do I decide what style of window to put in my house?

    There are a number of things to consider when selecting a style of window for your home. If you are building a new home you can usually make changes to the house design to accommodate any style or arrangement of window. When renovating, however, you will want to begin by considering the size of the existing windows, the style of the home and possibly even the style of windows on the rest of the street. The existing window sizes will often have great influence on what type of window will work.

  • What colours are available?

    All of our window & door lines are available in solid white & solid beige (Kaycan Matchcoat Sandalwood) as extruded colours (not painted). We also now provide painting of all products in a vast array of colours. FCI Windows also can match custom colours to suit any colour scheme. We now offer our Doublenature line on all of our products. Applied to the interior, exterior or both, Doublenature stained finishes offer the wood and feel of wood with the energy efficiency of vinyl.

  • Will FCI Windows deliver my windows? How much does that cost?

    Yes, FCI Windows will be happy to deliver your windows and doors. On larger orders we offer free delivery within 100km of either of our factory. On smaller orders or greater distances we will charge for delivery. Please contact our office to for more information.

  • What products or services do you not offer?

    Products

    • Window blinds or shutters
    • Interior doors
    • Glass replacement on windows not manufactured by FCI Windows

    Services

    • Caulking or cladding existing windows
    • Storm, screen, or mirage door replacements
    • Installation of products that are not purchased through FCI Windows
    • Servicing or repair on windows not manufactured or supplied by FCI Windows

Installation

  • If I order windows from FCI Windows, who will install them?

    FCI Windows does not sub-contract installations.

    At FCI Windows we have a great team of Installers. We do not sub-contract any of our installations as many retailers do. When you order an FCI Window you can be sure that from start to finish all of the work will be done by our qualified staff.


    Why is this important?


    Many companies find it easier to hire installers on a per contract basis. This allows them to offer installation services without the overhead of tools, vehicles and year-round employment expenses. 


    There are a number of negative results that accompany sub-contracting such as:

    • If something goes wrong who is responsible?
    • Inconsistent quality of work
    • Installers come and go based on work volume
    • Lack of product knowledge because they are often installing many brands of windows 
  • Can windows be installed any time of year?

    Yes, windows can be installed year round. Our employees continue to work throughout the winter months (extreme weather days excluded). Windows are typically installed one at a time so any given window may only be out for 10 to 15 minutes. The new window is placed in the opening and insulated immediately. January and February are typically the slowest months of the year within the window business. We offer discounted rates during these months to keep our employees busy. If you would like to take advantage of our winter discounts on installed products, please contact our office.

  • What type of installation will my house require?

    There are four categories of window installation.


    • Insert Installation – This means that the original or existing window frame stays inside the wall. The new windows are placed or inserted inside the original window frame.

    • Frame Out Installation – This means the original or existing window frame is removed entirely. This type of installation often requires new casing or trim around the window opening. The exterior finish is completed with aluminium capping.

    • Frame out to Lining (Jamb) Installation – This means that the old window is removed entirely, but the jamb and the trim are left in place. This type of installation is possible if the jamb is not permanently attached to the old window and the trim is in good condition.

    • Brick to Brick Installation – Refers to the old window frame being completely removed back to the rough opening. The new windows are installed complete with a brickmold that slides inside the brick opening. New jambs and casing are usually required on the interior. The exterior is finished by caulking the brickmold to the brick.

    It is very important that you understand what type of installation you are being quoted and how the finished product will look. If you are not sure, feel free to ask.


  • Is it possible to enlarge an existing window?

    Yes, it is possible to enlarge an existing opening. FCI Windows can cut brick or siding and enlarge your window opening. There are many variables involved in this type of installation. Please contact FCI Windows for a free estimate.

  • Does FCI Windows offer a financing plan for window installations?

    Yes, we do offer a variety of payment plans. To find out more information please visit our Payment & Finacing page.

Do it yourself

  • Will FCI Windows measure my windows for me?

    FCI Windows will only measure windows if we are doing the installation. 


    The person installing your windows should determine the size and type of installation. We are happy to offer suggestions and information that will help you with your project.

  • Is there a warranty on my windows if I install them myself?

    FCI Windows does not take responsibility for improperly installed products. Please see our comprehensive warranty on products installed by customers or contractors.


    We highly recommend professional installation as the performance of your windows will be greatly affected by the quality of the installation.

Condensation

  • What is condensation?

    Is your glass ‘sweating’? Is water beading or ice forming on the inside surface of your windows? Don’t be too quick to blame the windows! There’s a good chance that what you’re seeing is condensation, a sign that there’s excess humidity in your home.


    Humidity – water vapor mixed with air – is drawn to the coolest surfaces, such as your window. Cool air cannot hold as much moisture as warm air, so windows and doors often collect this moisture and make it visible.


    A surface that is cooler than room temperature is more likely to show condensation.

  • What causes condensation?

    Indoor moisture is caused by a variety of factors, including cooking, showering, running dishwashers, storing firewood, pets, fish tanks, plants, clothes dryers that are not vented properly, even breathing. Your new windows are most likely showing condensation more than your old ones because they are more air - tight - less air is entering your home from the outside. The air leaking from older windows evaporated the moisture before it could collect.


    While some humidity is necessary for health and comfort, chronic and excessive condensation should be tipping you off to take some action before serious, costly damage, such as decay, mold, paint problems, and even major structural damage occur.


    What about condensation in between the panes of glass? This may indicate a seal failure, and you should contact FCI Windows, as this is covered by your warranty.


    Why is condensation forming at the bottom of the window? Each insulated unit is a sealed atmosphere, and the air in this atmosphere becomes layered, just as in any closed space. Warm air rises, and since humidity is attracted to cooler air, condensation will often show near the bottom of the glass.

  • Temporary condensation

    There are several ways to tell if the condensation on your windows is temporary. Does condensation typically form:

    - During baths and showers, cooking, dishwashing, laundry, or other steam-producing occasions?

    - During the start of each heating season? Houses absorb moisture during humid summers and

    will dry out after a few weeks of heating.

    - During sharp temperature changes? Sudden drops in temperature, especially during the heating

    season, can create temporary condensation.

    - During new construction or remodeling? Building materials contain a great deal of moisture.

    When the heat is turned on, this moisture will flow into the air inside the home. It usually will disappear after the first heating season.

  • Problem condensation

    Excess moisture in your home may eventually cause problems. It may be time to take action if you notice the following signs in your house:

    - Condensation remains on windows throughout the day, even when the outside temperature has warmed up.

    - Condensation is forming and running down the walls. It may also be causing discoloration, staining, peeling wallpaper and blistering paint.

    - The air smells musty - this could indicate mold, mildew, or in the worst cases, rot -or odors from everyday household activities that linger too long. Odors increase in intensity with high relative humidity.

    - Mold, mildew, and/or rot is visible. Mold and mildew thrive in moist areas and can cause health and house damage.

  • Interior condensation

    Interior condensation forms on the inside pane of the glass within your home. This is the type of condensation most homeowners notice and become concerned about. It usually forms in the winter, especially at the beginning of the heating season. As the outside temperature drops, the inside surface will also get cooler; therefore, condensation will form at lower relative humidity on cold days. The colder the air outside, the more likely condensation is to occur. The good news is – you have a great deal of control over interior condensation.

  • Exterior condensation

    Conversely, exterior condensation, which forms on the outside pane of the window, typically occurs in summer. This type of Condensation can occur for several reasons: the glass temperature drops below the dew point temperature of the outside air, the air is still, there is a high relative humidity, there is a clear night sky, or there are plants located near your window. While unsightly, exterior condensation should not concern you, since it usually evaporates as the day wears on and will not affect the interior of your home. Since you cannot control the relative humidity outside your home, the only step you can take to combat exterior condensation is to warm the inside surface of the window, as this is a way to warm the outside surface. Seeing exterior condensation on those rare days should be a reassurance that your windows are doing their job: keeping your heating and cooling in your home where it belongs and saving you money.

  • Condensation & Health

    Acceptable Ranges of Temperature & Relative Humidity During Winter Improper temperature and humidity can cause comfort and health concerns. Warm, humid environments encourage the growth of molds and fungi which can lead to allergic reactions.


    Dry environments can irritate sinus linings and can progress to a sinus infection. The best way to combat this is to achieve the appropriate balance of temperature and moisture in your home. See the table for guidance.


    The humidity level that should be maintained in your home during the winter varies with the outside temperature. The colder it is outside the lower the humidity level must be inside your home. All major manufacturers of humidifiers list the recommended humidity settings based on outside temperatures. The following guideline is recommended by every major Window and Humidifier manufacturer.


    Outside Temperature  -30° C 

    Relative Humidity 15% or less 


    Outside Temperature  -25° C 

    Relative Humidity 15% - 20%


    Outside Temperature  -15° C

    Relative Humidity 20% - 25%


    Outside Temperature  -10° C

    Relative Humidity 25% - 30%


    Outside Temperature  -5° C

    Relative Humidity 30% - 35%

  • Climate & Other factors

    Southern and Central regions of Ontario, or those places where the temperature average for January is

    3 Deg. Celsius or colder, tend to have more occurrences of condensation. The greater the extremes between outdoor and indoor temperatures, the more likely moisture will become visible on your windows.

    Bay, bow, and garden windows often create opportunities for condensation to show because air circulation is frequently limited and their protrusion from the insulated house wall generally makes them a few degrees cooler. Heavy draperies, blinds, and other restrictive window treatments also limit air flow and increase the likelihood of condensation.

  • Reducing condensation

    Now that you know the what and why of condensation, it’s time to learn how to reduce the conditions that cause it, especially if you’re concerned about the effects of that excess moisture on your home and health. 


    There are several steps you can take in three main areas:


    1. Reduce Moisture Sources

    - Stop or severely limit the use of humidifiers or adjust them to the appropriate setting

    (see section above).

    - Run a dehumidifier if needed.

    - Limit plants, aquariums, and pets. If you care for a lot of plants, group them in one sunny room

    and avoid over watering.

    - If you haven’t recently, have your gas appliances checked. Malfunctioning gas appliances can

    deliver excessive water vapor into the air along with more dangerous contaminants. Be sure you

    have a carbon monoxide alarm.

    - Store firewood outside.

    - Eliminate plumbing leaks.

    - Don’t air dry clothes indoors.


    2. Increase Ventilation

    - Open windows for a few minutes each day, particularly after steam producing activities such as

    showering/bathing, laundry, and cooking. Heat loss will be minimal.

    - Run kitchen, bathroom, and other fans longer and more often.

    - Improve or add a ventilation system in your home through attic, roof and soffit venting. Ensure

    that everything vents to the outside.

    - Make sure crawl spaces are properly ventilated and attic louvers remain open all year.

    - Open blinds and drapes. Heavy window coverings restrict the flow of warm air over the interior

    glass surface.

    - Operate ceiling fans to improve air circulation.


    3. Increase Air Temperature

    - Raise the temperature inside the house.

    - Direct warm-air supply ducts toward windows or even use a fan for increased air circulation

    at windows.

    If you continue to have alarming condensation and other moisture problems and you have taken the steps above, it may be beneficial to consult a heating contractor specialist for further cures.

HOW TO VIDEOS

Remove: Casement and Awning Screens

Install: Single Slider Window

Remove: Casement and Awning Screens

Install: Single Slider Window

 Reset: PH Tech Mini-Blind

Install: Large Casement Window

 Reset: PH Tech Mini-Blind

Install: Large Casement Window

MAINTENANCE

Our Windows and Patio Doors are formulated with PH Tech Vinyl to provide lasting beauty and the durability of a surface that resists cracking, flaking, peeling and blistering under normal use conditions. However, even with the low-maintenance features of vinyl windows and doors, they always require yearly maintenance to maintain longevity. Failure to clean and maintain your windows voids the warranty – It is essential that windows are maintained just like a vehicle.

Cleaning

GLASS
Use any commercial glass cleaner available in the supermarket or a solution of vinegar and water (diluted).


SCREENS
A mild solution household detergent should be used to clean the P.V.C. frame applied with a soft cloth and rinsed off with a garden hose. Screens can be vacuumed.

VINYL
Vinyl windows and doors should be cleaned using a solution of mild dish soap and water to clean vinyl surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge. Then, rinse thoroughly with clean water and dried using a fiber cloth. A solution of diluted vinegar is also acceptable (1 Part Vinegar to 4 Parts Water).
 

Do not clean any vinyl surface with solvents.


Be careful not to over clean or scrub the vinyl material.


Avoid using citrus-based cleaners, petroleum based products, alcohol, bleach, degreaser or nail polish remover that can cause damage to your vinyl surfaces.


Always test all cleaning agents in a small, inconspicuous area before applying them to a

large area.

Do not clean any vinyl surface with solvents.


Be careful not to over clean or scrub the vinyl material.


Avoid using citrus-based cleaners, petroleum based products, alcohol, bleach, degreaser or nail polish remover that can cause damage to your vinyl surfaces.


Always test all cleaning agents in a small, inconspicuous area before applying them to a large area.

Do not clean in direct sunlight.


When cleaning the surfaces, never use abrasive cleaners, metal tools or power washers.


To clean the tracks or sill areas of windows or doors, use a small paintbrush to sweep out the dirt.


Vacuum out the dirt using a small extension.


WARRANTY
On FCI Manufactured Products

FCI Windows stands by its manufacturing processes with a commitment to quality, longevity and efficiency, offering a comprehensive warranty on all products and installations. Any manufacturing defects are warranted directly by FCI Windows. Please note that our guarantee does not cover any installation issues resulting from supply orders not installed by our teams. The following is a comprehensive outline of

our warranty.

Timeline

EFFECTIVE DATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY

Supply Orders: 
Warranty will take effect when the product is complete, invoiced for pick-up or delivery and full payment has been received.

FCI Installation Orders:
Warranty will take effect upon completion of installation and full payment.

Supply Orders: 
Warranty will take effect when the product is complete, invoiced for pick-up or delivery and full payment has been received.

FCI Installation Orders:
Warranty will take effect upon completion of installation and full payment.

Lifetime

VINYL FRAME & VINYL SASH

Our windows are warranted against such defects in material and workmanship that might result in blistering, peeling and flaking of the window frame of sashes. This Limited Warranty shall be null and void if harmful solvents are used to clean the vinyl frame and/or sashes, or if the frame and/or sashes are painted or coated by an unauthorized agent.


10 Year

SEALED GLASS
FCI warrants that the insulating glass units contained in the windows will conform to the Federal specifications for insulating glass units fabricated from select “A” quality glass and that under normal conditions there will not be an obvious obstruction of vision which is the result of moisture formation or dust collection on the interior glass surfaces. Any seal failure or defective glass unit will be replaced under warranty with no charge to the customer during the 10 year period. Pressure cracks on windows installed by FCI teams will be fully warranted for 1 year from the date of purchase after which the customer must cover the cost of the replacement glass unit and installation. Exterior SDL (Simulated Divided Lite) grills are not covered under the sealed unit warranty. Labor and material costs will apply to grill replacement when sealed units with SDL are replaced.

Supply Orders:
Windows that are purchased Supply Only and are installed by the customer or contractor will be responsible for the installation of the sealed unit; FCI Windows will provide the sealed unit upon confirmation of seal failure. It is the responsibility of the customer to pick up the sealed unit from FCI Windows (Peterborough Factory). If the customer wants FCI to install the unit, service/install charge will be applied.


Supply Orders:
Windows that are purchased Supply Only and are installed by the customer or contractor will be responsible for the installation of the sealed unit; FCI Windows will provide the sealed unit upon confirmation of seal failure. It is the responsibility of the customer to pick up the sealed unit from FCI Windows (Peterborough Factory). If the customer wants FCI to install the unit, service/install charge will

be applied.


FCI Installation Orders:
Sealed units and Installation of the sealed unit will be covered by FCI Windows for 10 years (see effective date of warranty).


HARDWARE
FCI warrants that all hardware (handles, locks & gears) shall remain in good operational condition for a period of 10 years from the date of purchase.

Supply Orders:
Windows that are purchased Supply Only and are installed by the customer or contractor will be responsible for the installation of any faulty hardware; FCI Windows will provide the hardware unit free of charge. It is the responsibility of the customer to pick up the hardware unit from FCI Windows (Peterborough Factory). If the customer wants FCI to install the unit, service/install charge will be applied.


FCI Installation Orders:
Faulty hardware components and installation of the hardware will be covered by FCI Windows for 10 years (see effective date of warranty). If the hardware is damaged by excessive force or failure to clean, a service charge will be applied.


FACTORY PAINTED VINYL SURFACES
Every painted window and patio door carries its own specifications and guarantee which is for a period of 10 years against paint blistering, or peeling . Natural fading is not warrantied. Damage from the use of harmful solvents to clean any painted voids warranty. Glazing coextrusions or caulked surfaces are excluded from this warranty. Corner welds on coloured windows may fade over time. Colour touch-up is the responsibility of the homeowner. Due to normal weathering, coloured vinyl products are subject to varying degrees of fading. This fading is beyond FCI Windows’ control and does not constitute a defect. Therefore we cannot guarantee an exact colour match in the event a component or product is repaired or replaced.


CONDITIONS

GENERAL
This warranty includes parts and labour for products manufactured by FCI within the ten year warranty period. The limited warranty stipulated in this document is the only warranty applicable to products manufactured by FCI Window Products. We stand by our installation teams. We are not responsible for issues that arise from installations by outside contractors. A fee will be charged for our service team to inspect Supply Only orders. If upon inspection the issue is a result of malfunction due to manufacturing, the charge will be waived.


EXCLUSIONS
This warranty does not cover “Acts of God”, accidental damage, misuse of product damage caused by improper installation (unless installed by FCI) or damaged hardware due to a failure of cleaning and maintaining hardware components. Holes and damage to screens are not covered under warranty.

Our Partners' Warranties

We honour the manufacture warranties from our partners Entryguard, and Avanti. Feel free to view their warranties below.

Entryguard Doors
Avanti
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