Supreme Windows <strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Taking Panes With Plants</span></strong><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>Question:</strong><br /> We want to include a large indoor sunspace for growing plants in the new house we are building but are unsure what type of windows to use. Low-E glass will save on heating costs, but we are concerned that it may also inhibit plant growth. Should we use Low-E or regular windows? E.W., Toronto, ON<br /> <br /> <strong>Answer:</strong><br /> Rather than inhibiting plant growth, Low-E glass designed for residential use will probably benefit your plants. Here&rsquo;s how: Glass is a remarkable product in that each sheet is about 90% transparent to solar radiation in the form of visible light, but is opaque to thermal radiation. Light from the sun passes easily through the windows of a house and warms the interior, but this heat cannot then pass back through the glass. A window will, of course, absorb and re-emit heat, which is why the glass on an oven door feels hot to the touch and why you feel chilly sitting next to a window on a cold winter night.<br /> <br /> Low-E (low emissivity) coatings applied to a window slow the rate at which heat is transferred through the glass, at the expense of only a slight reduction in its visual clarity. An inert gas such as argon can also be added to the cavity between the sheets of glass in a double-pane window to further reduce heat transfer with no darkening of the glass, and other coatings can be applied to block UV (ultraviolet) light or parts of the visible spectrum.<br /> <br /> Plants require sunlight-particularly the red portion of the visible spectrum-for growth. Some early Low-E coatings had a bluish tinge which indicated that some of the red light was not getting through, and a greenhouse constructed of this glass (or the highly reflective glass used in some commercial buildings) will result in slow-growing or dormant plants. Most current Low-E windows used in residential construction, however, are only slightly darker than a typical uncoated double-pane window: they let in 75 to 78 percent of visible light versus 81 percent for double-pane and 90 percent for single pane uncoated glass.<br /> <br /> A summer greenhouse can get away with single-pane glass and it&rsquo;s higher light transmission, but if the sunspace is part of your living area or if you want to grow plants year-round, the glass must also insulate against heat loss. This is where Low-E glass really shines. When the outdoor thermometer reads minus 18 degrees C, the interior surface temperature of a typical double-pane argon-filled Low-E window will be a relatively balmy 13 degrees. An uncoated double-pane window will have a surface temperature of 7 degrees while a single uncoated pane of glass will be a frigid minus 8 degrees. Lower heating bills are an obvious benefit of using Low-E glass in a sunspace; you will also be able to place plants closer to the windows without fear or their becoming chilled.<br /> <br /> The slight difference in light transmission between Low-E and uncoated double-pane glass may be felt only by tropical plants that require full sun. However, triple-pane or so-called Low-E2 windows that have extra coating layers for even better insulative properties probably should be avoided-these reduce the transmission of visible light by up to 10 percent compared with clear double glazing. On the other hand, Low-E windows with an additional coating to screen out UV radiation may work well in a sunspace; researchers studying the thinning of the Earth&rsquo;s ozone layer have found that excessive UV light can damage or cause genetic mutation in plants.<br /> <br /> Before choosing the glass for your sunspace, ask about the type of coating used as well as its emissivity rating, which is a measure of its insulative ability. Then look through it. If the glass looks clear to you, it will look clear to your plants.<br /> Stephen Carpenter is president of Enermodal Engineering, an energy-conservation consulting service in Waterloo, Ontario. He is also vice-chair of the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) committee, which rates the performance of windows.<br /> Reprinted from Harrowsmith Magazine - December 1993. Illustration by Stephen Quinlan <br /> http://www.supremewindows.com/Related-Articles.page?ArticleID=43161 2010-09-05T16:42:27.3382621Z <strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Need To Dry Out House Before Winter</span></strong><br /> <em>Sunday Sun,<br /> by Henri De Marne</em><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>Question:</strong> We recently replaced our wooden windows and storms with vinyl replacement windows. We assumed the condensation which caused our windows to rot was caused by too much cold air passing through the windows. However, we wake up now to wet windows and, at times, ice on them. Our house is well insulated and the use of a dehumidifier makes no difference. We use kitchen and bath fans and open windows when possible for ventilation. The problem is worse at night when curtains are drawn, and we can't leave them open. Any suggestions?<br /> <br /> <strong>Answer: </strong>Condensation occurred on your old windows not from air leakage, but because the dew point was reached when warm, moist air came in contact with cold glass surfaces. The same thing occurs now.<br /> <br /> A well insulated, tight house has fewer air changes per hour to dilute the ambient moisture with cold, dry exterior air that becomes warmed once in the house.<br /> <br /> In these houses, heating does not operate as often and therefore does not force infiltration to replace the air it blows up the flue.<br /> The newer, more efficient heating systems get their own air supply directly from outside into the appliance itself. Electrically heated homes are even more prone to creating humid conditions since they do not require combustion air. Dehumidifiers are not efficient at the lower temperatures found in homes in winter; they work best at higher summer temperatures. Condensation occurs on windows with curtains and shades drawn because you are isolating warm, moist air in the space behind the curtains and it cools faster and more than the room air which, at night, you probably keep cooler to start with. In spite of your ventilation efforts, you have too high an indoor humidity level and you should reduce it to minimize or eliminate the condensation problem.<br /> <br /> Major moisture contributors are bare dirt crawl spaces, wet basements or cellars, firewood stored in a basement, laundry hung to dry, a dryer that's not vented outside, and large amounts of water-loving plants.<br /> The easiest way, believe it or not, to get cold dry winter air into the house (and humid air out) is to open the doors for a short while.<br /> http://www.supremewindows.com/Related-Articles.page?ArticleID=43160 2010-09-05T16:42:27.3382621Z <strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Indoor Humidity</span></strong><br /> What amount is just right?<br /> <br /> <em>(As seen in the Toronto Star, written by Ed Borkowski)</em><br /> <br /> If it took less than two years to figure out how to stop 12:00 from flashing across the VCR, you&rsquo;re ready to tackle the task of setting the correct level on the furnace humidifier. You can ask the person who performs you fall furnace maintenance to set the humidifier for you, or you can do it yourself.<br /> <br /> If you do it yourself, it&rsquo;s important that you understand just what your current humidity level stands at.<br /> <br /> Humidity is simply the amount of moisture or water vapour in the air. Each family member, as well as pets, produced moisture through breathing and perspiration. Even your indoor plants produce moisture. Water is added to indoor air through activities such as cooking, showering or bathing, dishwashing and doing laundry.<br /> <br /> Although humidity is needed for our comfort and health, too much or too little humidity can produce problems.<br /> <br /> There are two ends of the humidity spectrum. Too much humidity can result in condensation on windows, wet stains of walls and ceilings, mouldy bathrooms, musty smells, breathing problems and allergic reactions. Too little humidity can cause chapped skin and lips, scratchy nose and throat, static and sparks, and problems with electronic equipment.<br /> <br /> The time of year is fast approaching when windows and doors will be kept closed to keep the cold out. But the moisture level in the air will remain unchanged. Humidity is usually measured as relative humidity(RH). RH is a percentage that indicates the amount of moisture in the air relative to the maximum amount the air can hold at that temperature. Warm air can hold more moisture than cold air, so that the RH of a sample of air will change as the temperature changes, even though the actual amount of moisture in the sample of air does not change. So as a sample of air cools, the RH will rise.<br /> <br /> There are products called hygrometers that you can purchase to accurately measure the humidity level in your home. These instruments are readily available at hardware stores. However, experts have developed rules of thumb to help homeowners make decisions regarding humidity levels in their houses:<br /> &bull;The recommended indoor RH is 30% - 50%<br /> &bull;When the outdoor temperature is below -10C, the recommended indoor RH is 30%.<br /> <br /> The limits should be used as guides only. Acceptable or comfortable humidity levels will vary from season to season, from house to house and from room to room in the same house. So take a look at the adjustment setting of your humidifier and see if it&rsquo;s set properly--if you need to make an adjustment, make them gradually by either increasing or decreasing the desired level day by day. Your comfort level should improve.<br /> http://www.supremewindows.com/Related-Articles.page?ArticleID=43159 2010-09-05T16:42:27.3382621Z <em>Sunday Sun, Nov.23, 1997<br /> by Henri De Marne</em><br /> <br /> Those of us living in temperate climate areas - where summer ventilation is done by opening windows instead of turning on the air conditioner - must remember to ventilate our houses throughout the early part of the fall to reduce to excessive moisture problem we will otherwise experience in late fall and winter.<br /> <br /> This excessive moisture will make itself felt in the form of condensation on windows and door knobs; musty damp smell inside; condensation and mildew in closets, etc.<br /> <br /> Throughout the summer, with our windows open, great quantities of moisture have been absorbed by all the components or our houses.<br /> <br /> Now that it is getting colder and we shut ourselves in for the winter and turn the heat on, this moisture is slowly being released and can cause serious problems.<br /> <br /> Open you windows wide during the breezy fall days even if you have to wear a sweater inside; you will be happy you did as winter progresses.<br /> <br /> http://www.supremewindows.com/Related-Articles.page?ArticleID=43158 2010-09-05T16:42:27.3382621Z <p><em>Article by John Breakey, President-Elect, </em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.oakvillechamber.com/"><em>Oakville Chamber of Commerce</em></a><em> for &quot;The Business Advocate&quot;.</em><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>Why is the Oakville Chamber sponsoring a Buy Local campaign?</strong><br /> <br /> <strong><img hspace="10" height="170" border="0" align="right" width="150" vspace="0" src="/_mndata/supremew/uploaded_images/827844.jpg" alt="" /></strong>One of the Chamber's core mandates is to help nurture and grow businesses that operate in our community. The Buy Local campaign is an opportunity to promote all of those merchants, suppliers, manufacturers, restaurants and services companies that make our community so vibrant. This campaign allows us all to bring focus on the local economy and encourage people to support the community by investing in it.<br /> <br /> <strong>Isn't this contrary to globalization?</strong><br /> <br /> Buy Local is complimentary to a global economy. Both are important parts of a balanced economy and one should not supercede the other at the expense of the other. The economic effects of a global economy have been a great benefit to Oakville and Ontario. We host a number of manufacturers, exporters and service companies that depend on a healthy, open trade with the rest of the world. That is why the Chamber also supports and advocates international trade in a number of its program, however a strong global economy is only of real value to a local community when the 2 can coexist in harmony.<br /> <br /> <strong>Why is a strong local business community so important?</strong><br /> <br /> Local businesses are the major contributors to our local charities such as the United Way, the local hospital, trauma centres and many of the other needy social causes. Local businesses sponsor our children's sports teams, making them more accessible to everyone. Especially in this time when governments are relying on contributions from the private sector to offset funding shortfalls, it is increasing important to make sure we have a strong local economy so that businesses have a surplus to contribute back to the community.<br /> <br /> Local businesses create local employment that leads to a better quality of life. People who live and work in the same community generate many social benefits. They have more time for their families, reduce traffic congestion and reduce their stress levels and more. Oakville's business community offers wide variety of job opportunities. By supporting a strong local economy we create more jobs for more people to take advantage of this enriched live / work environment.<br /> <br /> <strong>I don't want to sacrifice quality and best price.</strong><br /> <br /> It is not the intention of the Buy Local campaign to stop<br /> anyone from continuing to buy goods or use services from outside our community. When purchasing anything, the reason for our choices is often a matrix of availability, great service, price and convenience. Buy Local is not about sacrifice. It is about a conscious awareness to give local businesses the opportunity to win a little more of your business. When all things are equal it is hoped that both local consumers and businesses will take the opportunity to invest in their community. Oakville is home to some of the best consultants, professional service practices, financial planners, and information technology companies. Buy Local is a way for other businesses to provide these groups with the opportunity to compete for your business.<br /> <br /> <strong>I operate a business in Oakville. How can I participate?</strong><br /> <br /> First, let all of your employees know you support and encourage the concepts of Buy Local. Next, enshrine this concept in your purchasing policies. Make sure that your purchasing staff seeks out local suppliers to compete for your business whenever they purchase goods or services. Have a little fun by purchasing a few Buy Local tee shirts from the Oakville Chamber and invite your purchasing people to wear them. Further, promote the idea of shopping local with your employees. Finally, get out to some of the Chamber's monthly business networking events to uncover new relationships with other local businesses to work together.<br /> <br /> <strong>I live in Oakville. What can I do?</strong><br /> <br /> All of us who live in Oakville make choices daily to purchase a variety of consumer goods. Whether we are buying a car, a TV, new clothes or treating ourselves to a fine restaurant, always consider purchasing from a local merchant. Continue to shop around a look for the best selection and value but make sure your neighborhood businesses are always on your list of where to shop. Just by buying 10% more of your purchases from local suppliers you will have a dramatic impact on the local economy.<br /> The Oakville Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting a healthy, vibrant business community that in turn strengthens the community as a whole. We are proud sponsors of this Buy Local campaign and we sincerely hope everyone gets involved.</p> http://www.supremewindows.com/Related-Articles.page?ArticleID=43157 2010-09-05T16:42:27.3382621Z <strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Is Your Contractor Licensed To Operate In Oakville?</span></strong><br /> <em>Article from Oakville Chamber of Commerce &quot;Chamber News&quot;, 2001</em><br /> <br /> The Town of Oakville requires that all plumbers, building renovators, driveway paving contractors and heating, ventilating and air conditioning installers be currently licensed. By-laws have been passed by Oakville Town Council to provide a measure of protection for the public when dealing with any contractor who does not possess the required license to operate in Oakville.<br /> <br /> If you are considering any improvement to your dwelling or property, which may involve the hiring of one of these trades, it is advisable that you ask for proof of licensing. If you are not satisfied with the credentials provided by the contractor, contact the Licensing Section at the Town Hall immediately for verification that the person or company is licensed.<br /> <br /> Quite often, a member of the public will enter into a home improvement contract with the operator offering the lowest price, and this has proved to be a common mistake with serious repercussions.<br /> <br /> Over the years, Town staff and members of Council have received many reports of unlicensed contractors doing sub-standard work or leaving work undone after taking a large financial payment from their clients. When the homeowners have tried to contact these businesses, their telephone calls are not returned, their home-insurance policies do not cover the losses and they are forced to hire a qualified contractor to undo the damage or complete the renovation.<br /> <br /> Town staff endeavor to enforce the by-laws as vigilantly as possible, but they must often rely on the public to alert them to instances where unlicensed operators are carrying on business. As noted earlier, the licensing by-laws are meant to provide a measure of protection for the local consumer, but there are limitations to their scope of effectiveness. For example, being licensed as a Building Renovator in the Town of Oakville does not guarantee that the trades person is a highly competent or highly skilled individual.<br /> <br /> The license does guarantee, however, that the business name used is a legal entity, the licensee carries a certificate of Public Liability Insurance in the amount of one million dollars, the licensee has provided the Town with a current copy of any criminal record and if complaints about the business&rsquo;s work are too numerous or are not satisfactorily resolved, Council has the ultimate authority to revoke the license.<br /> <br /> For additional information, please contact the Town of Oakville By-law &amp; Licensing section of the Building Services Department, 1225 Trafalgar Road, During regular business hours at the following telephone number: (905) 845-6601 ext. 3258.<br /> P.S. Yes, Supreme Windows is licensed, and has been since the passing of these By-Laws.<br /> <br /> http://www.supremewindows.com/Related-Articles.page?ArticleID=43156 2010-09-05T16:42:27.3382621Z 9/5/2010 12:42:27 PM http://www.supremewindows.com/ 9/5/2010 12:42:27 PM george@supremewindows.com