COVID-19 Response April 7 2020
FIRE ANT CONTRACTING COVID-19 COMMUNICATION:
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, Fire Ant Contracting has been working hard to ensure the health and safety of our team, their families and our clients while still working to provide quality, timely services. We have put internal policies in place that are consistent with local, provincial and federal efforts and mandates to prevent the spread of the virus. Although the situation changes daily, below is a brief summary of what Fire Ant Contracting has done to date:
-Communicated a formal, written Coronavirus Exposure Control Plan and Safe Work Procedures to our entire staff.
-Required self-isolation for any staff that are showing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
-All person's entering or remaining on one of Fire Ant Contracting's sites shall wear a mask or face covering which covers the nose, mouth, and chin. This is required weather the site is outdoors or indoors.
-Enforcing social distancing policies on work sites, meetings and in our office. We have implemented training for enhanced hygiene practices which help limit the potential spread of the virus.
-Increased cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces in our offices, vehicles and work sites especially those which are subject to frequent contact.
-Prepared a small survey that our staff, trade partners, clients and visitors to identify potential health concerns and develop plans on a case-by-case basis for carrying out our required work.
-Instructed staff to carry out any additional cleaning measures where permissible and appropriate in homes and business where we are working.
Fire Ant Contracting remains a full staff and are prepared to respond to new concerns and continue to work on our existing projects. As additional preventative measures are put in place, by the appropriate governing bodies, we will work hard to keep our communication up to date with all our staff, trade partners and clients.
We would like to note that should you require any emergency clean-ups or decontamination following known or suspected cases of the virus, Fire Ant Contracting is ready and able to provide you with those services. Through our IICRC trained staff, we have the skills, expertise and resources to safely and effectively decontaminate residential, commercial and industrial properties.
We would like to wish your teams and families all the best as we navigate these challenging times. Please don’t hesitate to contact our office with any questions, concerns, or to book your cleaning, project quote, renovation quote or our maintenance service.
COVID-19 Statement
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold, Fire Ant Contracting has been working hard to ensure the health and safety of our team, their families and our clients while continuing to work at providing quality, timely services.
Although the situation changes daily, we feel it is important to let you know that business is operating as usual. We do not foresee any cost implications or schedule delays to our upcoming or existing projects.
Calgary Home & Garden Show 2020
Calgary Home & Garden Show
February 27th - March 1st, 2020
BMO Center, Stampede Park
100 Women Who Care February 2020
100 Women Who Care
February 27th, 2020
Kids Cancer Care Gala: Parents Quest 2019
For the 10th year in a row, Fire Ant Contracting has sponsored the Kids Cancer Care Gala's Parents Quest for the Cure. Ed and Sara are inspired by the amazing families that are affected by this terrible disease, their strength and hope are heartening to see. We hosted a table of 8 of our favourite renovation clients and enjoyed the delicious Gaelic food and entertainment. Thank you Kids Cancer Care for hosting another fantastic evening and all the amazing sponsors who make the evening possible.
BILD Awards 2018
Friday 15th March 2019
We are delighted to announce that Fire Ant have been nominated for their 11th BILD Finalist project! (Since 2011!)
BILD AWARDS FINALIST: Renovators Choice, Cranston Wine Cellar
Design by Method Design Renovation by Fire Ant Contracting Ltd.
This beautiful wine cellar which we completed in 2018 within a new basement development can house over 150 bottles of wine (room temperature, cooled and chilled) and is finished with luxury finishes such as walnut cabinetry, 'hardwood' tiles, soapstone countertops and ledgestone walls. The basement development contains a wine cellar, gym, table tennis, living area and storage room.
Thank you to everyone at BILD AWARDS who voted for us! We are looking forward to the Gala in April for the winners to be announced.
Home Renovation Show
Thank you to everyone who came to visit us at the 2019 Calgary Renovation Show. We had a very successful show and are looking forward to meeting lots of new clients at thier homes and creating their dream spaces.
See us next at the Calgary Home and Garden Show 28th February - 3rd March 2019!
Contact us anytime to disucss your home renovation projects!
Understanding Fire Ant's Warranty Program
What Is A Warranty?
In the construction industry a warranty is a written guarantee that any defects in the products or services provided will be the liability of the provider for a certain period of time. It is common practice for contractors to include their warranty information in a written contract with each homeowner. The warranty inclusion motivates contractors to always do their best work and it reassures homeowners that they will be taken care of if something doesn’t turn out right. A written warranty is binding and is enforceable by law.
Manufacturer’s Warranty:
The actual materials and products used for your home renovations most often include a warranty from the manufacturer of the products. Warranties add value to the products and are one of the ways that manufacturers compete with each other for your business. When you make your product selections pay attention to the which products have better warranties. Remember that some warranties are conditional on the products being installed correctly by a trained professional. Contractors should be able to provide proof of their qualifications.
Warranty on Workmanship:
Contractors in Alberta are required to provide a warranty of at least one year on their workmanship. A warranty on workmanship is a promise that all work was done correctly, and any defects that arise throughout the warranty period will be rectified by the contractor. All warranty information, including any exclusions, should be provided in writing and included with the signed contract. Warranty confusion can result in a bad experience for homeowners and contractors alike.
Fire Ant’s Warranty Program:
Warranty On Workmanship:
Fire Ant is committed to a higher standard of renovation excellence which is reflected in our warranty program. Each renovation project includes a two-year warranty from the date of substantial completion on all workmanship provided throughout the project. If homeowners notice any defects that resulted from poor workmanship they are simply required to provide written notice to us. Written notice must be provided within reasonable time of noticing the defect, and prior to the warranty expiring.
Manufacturer Warranties:
To help homeowners maximize the benefits of their selected products we make sure that they are aware of and understand the included manufacturer warranties. Fire Ant will convey to the Owner any warranties by manufacturers or suppliers on individual materials, products or systems supplied by Fire Ant under the Contract. All warranty documents will be brought together into one package that can be kept safe and transferred if you sell your home. It is important to note that not all warranties are transferable. The best time to review warranty information is throughout the product selection process, but we are available throughout the course of the project to answer any questions.
Sub-Trades And Suppliers:
The final part of our warranty relates to sub-contractor work and suppliers that provide products or materials for the project. Fire Ant will hold the homeowner harmless from any contractual obligations with any sub-trades and suppliers. This means that we are responsible for the agreements that we make with sub-trades and suppliers, and that we will manage all included obligations, whatever they may be. This extra assurance gives homeowners peace of mind in knowing that everyone involved has been fairly dealt with.
Any Questions?
If you have any questions related to our warranty program don’t hesitate to contact us. We are happy to go through it with you or send more information.
Making Project Selections
How To Avoid Choice Overload
We all dream of new designs and possible renovations for our homes. That is why we love watching HGTV and spending time on Instagram and Houzz. The excitement that comes from searching through possibilities and making selections for your own project is intense and almost addictive. Some people know exactly what they want, but others may be experiencing “choice overload” when having to decide between so many fantastic alternatives. If this is you, then we have some advice to help you get through the selection process, loving every minute of it.
Find A Style That Suits You
Homes, like people, have a personality derived from their unique traits and characteristics. The variation of colours, the finishing textures and pattern combinations are a few of the elements that work together to create a distinctive atmosphere. Your home should support or complement your personality. Find a style that you can relate to – something you are comfortable with. There are limitless galleries and images online to scroll through, but you may have a better experience actually visiting a show-home or recent renovation project. Keeping a personal “look-book” can help you define your ideal style.
Work With A Designer
A professional interior designer can help with their years of experience and expertise. They can help you find your style and apply it to a physical space. Remember that you are planning something that you will be experiencing every day for the foreseeable future. Some professional help goes a long way.
Create A Colour Palette
A colour palette can take you a step further as you define your personal style and determine how it will be applied to your home. Complementary colours and tones will help maintain the desired mood or atmosphere in each room. Connected spaces can be easily blended for consistency and energy flow. If you are planning separate styles for different areas in the home, multiple palettes will be beneficial.
Know Where To Start
It is often recommended to start making selections in the largest, or most centrally located room. In most modern layouts, this will be the kitchen, which is considered the heart of the home. Kitchens are where families spend most of their time together. They are also one of the most often show-off spaces. Starting from the kitchen and working outward will help keep a smooth flow.
How To Stage Your Home For Sale
11 Tips To Get Attention And Help You Sell
You have a beautiful home, but for whatever reason... it is time to sell. Without going into too much detail about the Calgary real-estate market, we want to focus on one recurring trend. Houses that look great are easier to sell! Homeowners and real-estate agents that take the time to demonstrate the full potential of a home gain the attention of more prospective buyers. It is as simple as that. It is always in your best interest to show your home at it’s best. Here are some priceless tips for anyone selling or preparing to sell a house.
Remove Clutter
Even organized clutter makes a room feel small and cramped. The best way to make a room feel larger is to remove the clutter. This includes excessive furniture and decorations. Remember that mementos and family heirlooms will not carry the same meaning for someone looking to buy your house. Remove as much as possible. It is not uncommon for professional stagers to remove as much as half of the furniture in a home when preparing it for sale.
Reorganize The Furniture
Now that you have more space, reposition your furniture to make each room more user friendly. Consider the natural flow of traffic and adjust accordingly. By pulling your furniture away from the walls the rooms will feel even larger. Try different pieces in different rooms until your setup is feels open and inviting with some cozy touches.
The Spare Room
This is the extra room in a house that doesn’t get used very often and eventually becomes the universal gathering place for junk and misfit possessions. Turn this room into an exciting new feature space. A sewing room, a reading room, a yoga studio… what can you make when you clear it out and bring in some of your other furniture?
Lighting
The problem with lighting is that many of us get used to improper lighting. Even right now in your home there is probably an area with burnt out or mix-matched bulbs. Some rooms in older homes were built for floor lamps and supplemental lighting only. They are rarely ever properly lit. Great lighting will make your home feel warm and welcoming. Changing your lightbulbs to a higher wattage can help. Use supplemental lighting in rooms with only one or two fixtures.
Paint The Walls
A fresh coat of paint looks clean and new, but there are even more reasons to paint your home prior to listing it for sale. Style is subjective but can greatly influence the experience a prospective buyer has in your home. Whatever themes or personal style you incorporated into your home design, chances are that not everyone will love it as much as you do. Tone it down to something more neutral and let the prospects roll with their own vision. Space is also a key factor that we’ve already covered a few times. Using the same color on adjacent rooms helps tie them together into one big space.
Wall Hangings
There is a word that perfectly describes the patterns of art hung in most homes… “boring”. By hanging your paintings in a high line around each room you render them invisible. When you are staging your home for sale, get creative. Place art at different levels and try different groupings to avoid the negative stereotype.
Accessories
Accessories on shelves and tables can add some customizable style to any space. Going overboard can bring you back into the clutter zone, but some delicate touches can make an impression. Home stagers use the “rule of three” as a general guideline. Group three accessories together, but not in a straight line – use all three dimensions. Don’t get too eclectic. Find a common element within each accessory grouping.
Make It Comfortable
…or at least make it look comfortable. Make up the beds and add towels to your bathrooms. Use soft colours and textiles that make people want to stay and relax. Add pillows and blankets that would make you want to curl up with a book or take a nap. Buyers can now imagine themselves being comfortable in your home.
Heart Of The Home
Kitchens are the heart of each home. As such, they undergo more scrutiny than any other room. Nobody likes an outdated kitchen with outdated appliances. When renovating your kitchen, keep in mind that not everyone has the same taste. A professional designer is a big help when you consider the impact your renovations will have on the resale value of your home.
Leave Nothing Unfinished
Buyers are smart and will see through cheap fixes. Anything that looks DIY sends signals that there could be problems down the road. The last thing a new homeowner wants is to inherit some time-consuming project to sully the excitement of buying a new house. Work with a professional to complete any outstanding projects. Plan to have everything finished prior to listing your home.
The Most Important Room
When staging a home for sale, it is important to remember that the most important room is the first one that people will see. That is the outdoor room, or landscaping. The walk up to your house is the first impression buyers will have of your home. Make it easy, clean, and attractive. Revisit the above tips and apply them to the outdoor space. Remove clutter, arrange furniture, add lighting… and make it a positive experience.
Picking An Exterior Finish
Get the look you want with materials that will last!
Dress For The Weather
Calgary homeowners know that the weather can be unpredictable. We are known to have drastic rain storms, heavy snowfall, pelting hail, severe wind, and hot sunny days throughout the course of a year. Protection from the elements is an underlying precept that has guided the evolution of building science over the centuries. Calgary’s unique weather calls for durable materials that can withstand harsh conditions in all seasons. There are a few good options, each with there own “pros and cons”. Here is what you need to know:
Vinyl Siding
This is one of the most popular options due to it’s durability and low cost. Vinyl can be manufactured in many colours and styles, giving you plenty of options to achieve your desired look. It is durable and lightweight, making it easy to work with. In some cases, it can even be installed over existing materials. The overlapping interlock system is waterproof when installed correctly. It is always installed over other waterproof membranes (such as tar paper or Tyvek), giving additional layers of protection. Once installed there is very little maintenance required. It can be cleaned with water.
The Downside: Vinyl does become brittle in extreme cold weather. We have seen instances of breakage with the heavy hail that sometimes rolls through Calgary. The total effectiveness of a vinyl siding system depends on proper installation, especially at material transition points. We have seen water penetration in instances where small details were ignored.
Aluminum Siding
This material has been declining in popularity for new homes since the 1970s, but it can still be seen throughout many of Calgary’s established neighborhoods. Like vinyl, it is extremely lightweight and easy to work with. It is also tough and difficult to penetrate. Aluminum siding is manufactured with a coloured enamel coating and can be seen in a few distinctive styles and textures. The durability of aluminum means it will often outlast the life of the house, and it can easily be recycled.
The Downside: Although it is difficult to penetrate, aluminum can easily scratch and dent, causing noticeable variance. The sound of rain and hail against the aluminum is much louder than alternative materials. Due to low popularity there are few suppliers with only a handful of colour and style options. This makes it more difficult to replace or repair existing aluminum siding.
HardiePlank® Siding
HardyPlank® is the leading brand of fibre-cement siding products which have only recently become popular throughout North America. By recently we mean within the last decade. It comes from a mix of cement, clay, sand, and wood dust. This innovative technology was developed to produce an extremely durable product – no chipping, no dents, no scratches. As a new product, growing in popularity, it is mostly seen in Calgary’s newest communities, but it is also popular for retrofit jobs on existing homes and buidings.
The Downside: Fibre-cement compositions are heavy and difficult to work with. Installation requires specialized tools and techniques. The material itself comes at a higher price-point, and the specialized labour can add to the cost.
Wood Siding
Wood is the original siding material of the American frontier and it continues to hold a place for both function and aesthetic. It is biologically programmed to manage water and maintain its durability. It is easily customizable and can be worked by any contractor. Cedar is the most popular wood used for siding in Calgary. It can be expected to last the life of the home with proper maintenance and care. It brings a natural beauty and is considered a highly sustainable material.
The Downside: Maintenance can include stain application, clear finishes, and repainting every few years. The maintenance requirements add to the already premium price for wood siding. It is also one of the few flammable siding materials available.
Stucco
Stucco is a cement-based material that is plastered onto a reinforced wire mesh fastened to the house. Mixtures and techniques have evolved over hundreds of years throughout Europe and Asia. It is one of the oldest materials, and still considered one of the best for water management. Traditional stucco is a sand and cement mixture that is applied in several coats. Modern stucco mixtures incorporate acrylic resins, allowing for additional colours and less coats. There are various methods used to texture the final layer to achieve different looks.
The Downside: Stucco application requires significant preparation. Improper preparation can lead to water ingress and delamination in areas. It is a skill-based trade requiring attention to detail. There are unskilled trades in Calgary that will try charging less for their work. It isn’t worth the risk.
Talk to us if you have questions about siding or exterior cladding. We can help you assess different options and show you samples of each.
What To Do If You Find A Water Leak
First of all, do not panic! If you have any water damage in your home, or questions about water damage, you can call us to speak with an expert. Water damage is one of the most common issues in Calgary buildings and homes. What makes it especially troublesome is that it can easily go unnoticed, leading to extended damage over time. Every property manager and homeowner should have systems in place to detect damage at the earliest stages. We want to make sure you know where to look and how to tell if you are having any water issues in your home.
How To Detect Leaky Windows
A clear sign of leaky windows is pooling or staining on the window sill, but often times water penetration can go unnoticed. Check for rusty screws on your window hardware. Look for stains in and around the sill and frame. Check the drywall beneath the windows for soft spots or bubbling in the paint. Open up the window and check the assembly for chips and staining. Look for staining in the stucco around the exterior of your window. These are all typically signs that water might be penetrating the window and leaking into the wall beneath. Knowing the full extent of damage may require further investigation.
What To Do If You Have Leaky Windows
Once water penetration becomes an issue it is important to identify the extent of the issue as early as possible. A general contractor has additional moisture detection tools that can help you know what might be happening inside the wall, but the best way to know will be to remove a section of interior drywall or exterior sheathing to see exactly what is going on. A professional should be able to provide a minimally invasive solution. Make sure that any window installation quote includes restoring any damaged materials. Never install new windows without removing and replacing all damaged material.
How To Detect Leaky Plumbing
The risk of a plumbing leak will change with the age of your home and the materials used. Calgary has hard water, meaning that it has a high mineral content. This accelerates the natural wear and tear on your pipes and plumbing components. Copper pipes will develop pin hole leaks over time with normal use. Valves and joints may also be affected. Check each plumbing fixture at the connection points for pooled water or staining. Feel for drops of water around your toilet and sink shut-off valves if you have any. Look under the sink for stains or soft spots. Check your washer-machine connections for any wetness, as well as refrigerators with water taps. Check the ceiling below each bathroom for watermarks.
What To Do If You Have Leaky Plumbing
If you do notice a problem, it is important to deal with it as soon as possible. Replace all faulty equipment and ensure there is no more leak. Remove any building materials that have been damaged beyond repair. It is a good idea to test your systems prior to making final repairs. A good general contractor will be able to help you know the extent of any damage and what items need to be replaced. Once the immediate leak is dealt with, get a fixed-price quote for the rest of the repairs.
Other Areas To Check
Check the tile grout in your showers, especially in older homes. In some cases, the tile grout is the only water barrier between your shower and the susceptible building material. If your tile grout is cracked or falling out, water could be getting into the walls. Keep an eye on your roof. There are multiple scenarios in which a roof could potentially fail and leak water into your house. Make sure the roofing materials are intact and in good condition, especially during the rainy season. Look out for ice buildup in the winter. Look for stains on your ceiling, and if you are feeling brave, get up in your attic to look for damp spots in the insulation.
What Happens If I Leave The Leak?
Water will instantly weaken the structure of building materials that are not designed to be water resistant. Any organic materials will begin to decompose, becoming weaker and weaker over time. This includes the wood framing that holds-up your house. The dark moist environment inside your walls becomes conducive for mold and bacterial growth which can have devastating effects on your health. For your own safety, and in consideration to the value of your home, do not procrastinate water issues.
METHOD ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: Favorite Design Trends in 2018
Kitchen design in 2018 is all about contrast, texture, statement appliances, and the ongoing trend of adding color in the kitchen. We’re finding clients seeking more variety and opting for braver colour and style choices. The mix of striking solid colours and wood grains will continue to prove popular, as well as adding more interest in the form of tile and metallic finishes to create striking kitchens.
Here are our favourite kitchen trends in 2018.
1. Dark Counter Tops. Clients are straying from white and venturing into darker territory with quartz and granite- even concrete- this year. An added bonus is darker countertops equals harder to spot crumbs. Paired with a waterfall edge your kitchen will be a stunner.
2. Captivating Appliances. Stainless steel appliances have ruled for the last decade, and we couldn’t be more excited to switch it up. Everything form ultra modern to vintage style ranges and refrigerators are dominating the market right now. Steam ovens are quickly gaining popularity. With their ability to cook food faster, retain nutrients and moisture better than conventional ovens it’s easy to see why.
3. Ceramic Tile. With recent innovations in technology ceramic tile is quickly gaining traction as the most popular flooring for kitchens. We are seeing wood grain replicas, as well as bold patterns and colors. These funky designs pair perfectly with the bold colors seen in cabinetry in 2018.
4. Color! Bringing us to our next point- color in cabinetry. Pantone’s 2018 Color of the Year was Ultra Violet, which set the stage for the transition from all white cabinetry. If this is too bold consider softer shades like sage and navy.
5. Pantry Wall. As organizational enthusiasts we love this one! Pantry walls often have a combination of pull out drawers and adjustable shelving allowing you to utilize every square inch. Add in wire baskets and clear containers for dry food storage and you’ll be sure to make Martha Stewart envious.
6. Two Tone cabinetry. Light upper cabinets paired with dark lowers have been popular for a while, this year it’s all about mixed material combos such as natural woods lowers paired with gloss white uppers. This creates dimension and texture, adding visual interest and making your kitchen pop!
Design Trends Presented By:
BILD Calgary Region Award Nominations
The BILD Calgary Region Awards recognize professionals in the local home building industry for their creativity and the quality of their work. Formerly known as the SAM Awards, these prestigious awards are highly coveted and sought after by any serious contractor in Calgary. It is an honour to be nominated and a true mark of excellence for the winners. We have been nominated for three awards this year for two of our major renovation projects. Our categories include: Best Home Renovation (with Addition); Best Kitchen Renovation - up to $89,999; and Best Kitchen Renovation - $90,000 and over. Both of the projects are amazing and would not have been possible without the clients who shared their dreams with us, the designers who helped provide vision, and the Fire Ant Team for turning it all into reality.
Best Of Houzz 2018
Every year the Houzz community nominates professionals for Best of Houzz. The Best of Houzz Customer Service award honours professionals that stand out with positive client reviews for projects completed the previous calendar year. In 2017 we had the opportunity to work with some amazing clients. We are deeply grateful for their reviews, but even more so for their trust and the relationships we have built. It is our honour to receive the Best of Houzz 2018 Service award! We owe it to fantastic clients and an incredible team.
With comments like “every single one of our neighbors went out of their way to tell us how courteous and pleasant all of Fire Ant employees and trades were” and “my dog misses all the belly scratches from all the guys” we know that it is the team that makes us look good. We have the best employees and subcontractors that anyone could ask for.
Fire Ant Contracting + Caesarstone
Fire Ant Contracting + Caesarstone
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Renovations With Style
This whole home renovation wouldn't be complete without the beautiful white granite countertops supplied by Caesarstone. See the full story on Caesarstone's website.
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Read More
Make Your Ensuite A Personal Spa!
Peace and serenity at home often varies with different stages of life. Sometimes it can be hard to come by. Everyone needs an occasional retreat from their busy day-to-day lives to focus on their own mental state and wellbeing. Creating an oasis within your own home makes rest and relaxation that much more accessible. It was this idea that sparked the popularity of master ensuite bathrooms. Here are some of our suggestions to turn your ensuite into a personal spa.
1. Connect with nature by using natural materials where possible. Natural wood with granite or slate countertops is a stunning combination. Consider a pebble stone shower base and alternative materials like bamboo and grass to finish and decorate the room.
2. Use neutral tones, especially with the walls and ceilings. Colour and texture are added with accessories. ‘Natural Linen’ and ‘White Dove’ by Benjamin Moore are popular for creating a serene, soothing space.
3. Soft fabrics bring an element of comfort. Create some privacy with some natural cotton or linen drapes. Make sure there is plenty of space for soft towels and face cloths.
4. Oversized showers with frameless glass help maintain a fresh-air atmosphere. Multiple shower heads and body-sprays create a waterfall experience as they massage your body. Rain heads give the feeling of warm soothing rain.
5. Steam showers combined with a shower bench create the ultimate spa experience. Sit quietly and mediate in the warmth of your private steam room.
6. Heated floors are growing in popularity. The warm surfaces are extremely comfortable and add to the spa experience.
7. Add your own private salon with a designated makeup area. A well-lit mirror and vanity can be integrated with a hair dryer, curling tongs, and storage for a straightener. Remember to include additional power outlets in your design!
2017 Custom Renovations
A selection of our custom renevation projects from 2017.
What Kind of Windows?
When it comes to your windows, how much do you actually know? There are a variety of building materials used in window construction, and they each have their own features and benefits. Knowing what you have can help you properly maintain your windows and achieve their maximum useful lifespan. Knowing what is available will help you know what you want in your home when it is time to replace the windows.
PVC Windows
Using PVC materials in window construction has made it a lot more affordable to replace your windows. PVC is durable and easy to maintain. The entire window unit is made from the same material and is most commonly produced in a white or in a slightly off-white colour. Additional PVC colours are uncommon and are usually discouraged due to the eventually fading. PVC windows do not require any paint and they can be cleaned with a wet cloth.
Aluminum Clad Windows
Aluminum clad windows use aluminum components on the exterior side of the window and wood components on the interior. The aluminum can be painted any colour during the production process, which gives you more options for design. The wood components act as a natural insulator and make the windows easy to install. It is crucial to ensure that the windows are properly sealed. We have seen some poorly designed windows that allow water to penetrate into the wood components causing them to rot.
Hybrid Windows
Hybrid windows are a combination of aluminum and PVC, bringing you the best of both materials. The aluminum exterior provides additional strength and can be produced in virtually any colour. The interior comes in white or off-white and is low maintenance and easy to clean. Hybrid windows are also generally less expensive than traditional aluminum clad windows.
Interior Jambs
Both the PVC Windows and the Hybrid Windows are able to incorporate a wood jamb interior. The wood can be painted or stained to match your existing themes.
Energy Efficiency & Glazing
In Alberta it is required by law to have at least double-pane windows. The additional pane creates a thermal insulation against the low winter temperatures. Argon gas is used between the panes for maximum energy efficiency. An energy efficient home presents a more comfortable environment and costs less to maintain (heating and AC expenses). It is also better for the environment. Many homeowners are taking the next step to a triple-pane window for additional efficiency. The additional pane adds an extra layer of thermal insulation and also reduces the solar heat gain.
Calgary Home + Garden Show
Visit Us At The Calgary Home + Garden Show
March 01-04, 2018
We will be at the Calgary Home + Garden show this year with our brand new Fire Ant Contracting Booth. The show promises a stellar lineup of speakers and celebrities with exhibitors from all over Calgary. Come see us for the latest in home renovations, including virtual tours of our recently completed projects.
Click the image to get $4 off admission to the show!!
