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The Citizen, 1987-02-25, Page 27THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1987. PAGE 27. Replacement windows offer wide choices Anyone who has shopped a- round for new windows lately knows they’re quite a bit more complicated than they seem. First, there’s the framing types to choose from, including vinyl, wood, aluminum, steel, vinyl-clad wood and vinyl-clad aluminum. There’s also glazing to consider: double or triple-paned, or perhaps “heat mirror” or “Low E” glass. Salesmen and contractors can confuse you further by talking about extrusions, sash, jambs, aprons, stops and other window components. Many consumers eventually se­ lect the window that looks good, is priced right and seems to have the best product features. But how can you tell which window will perform better than the others? Since air and water infiltration are the worst problems in win­ dows, it makes sense to choose a window with welded corners. Frames that are screwed together leave room for cold air and water to leak into the house. You should also consider the amount of “dead air” trapped in theglass and frame. Since dead air acts as a very effective insulator, the wider the “dead air’’ space between panes, the better the insulating factor. Vinyl window frames are espe­ cially energy-efficient because their multi-chambered construc­ tion traps dead air throughout. The salesmen or contractor should be able to show actual frame or window samples, as well as provide information about the amount of air space between panes. Check manufacturer’s liter­ ature too. Here are some other points to consider when buying windows: • Low maintenance. Unless you want to spend time, money and energy painting all those sashes on a regular basis, specify a window thatdoesn’tneedtobe painted, such as vinyl. Sashes should also have a tilt-in feature for easy cleaning. • Custom fit. If you’re replacing anexistingwindow, don’tbuya window designed for new con- struction. New construction win­ dows are those that come in stock sizes and must be “framed out” to fit the opening. Not only is some of the window viewing area lost, but labor is often more costly and the fit less exact than with a custom-made window. • Condensation-resistance. If the frame feels cold to the touch, chances are frost and moisture will collect on the window and threaten to damage walls, furniture and carpeting. • Easy operation. Open and shut the window several times to make sure it operates smoothly, without sticking. Windows that have to be painted periodically may be come difficult to open and close later on. Vinyl-framed windows and patio doors, such as these are excellent insulators and require no painting. They are available in various colors and in virtually every style - from bays and bows to double-hungs and round-tops. Heme ■rnprcvemert STARTS HERE ____ AT TEN PAS CONSTRUCTION •Home renovations and general building contractors •Hunt & Pella windows & doors 887-6408 30 YEARS SERVING THIS AREA Tips on making your paint job last With next winter just months away, many do-it-yourself painters may want to paint the exterior of their homes. Paint can help protect a house from the elements while also enhancing the appearance. The key to a successful paint job is surface preparation. The Nation­ al Paint and Coating Association offers the following tips to the do-it-yourself painter: •Remove dirt and grease with a detergent or commercial cleaner recommended for use on painted surfaces. Wear gloves to protect your skin and follow all label directions. •Remove mildew with a stiff brush and a mildew cleaner. (Or, Personalize your home’s entrance You can make your home entrance very personally yours by using one of the exciting new moulding designs now available for the purpose. Molded of high-density poly­ mer, these mouldingswill not warp or rot, and are easy to install yourself. Each moulding fits all standard single or double door openings, but will differ in wall projection and overall massive­ ness, to fit your home. These are the main designs . available: ment dealer for details, or write to: Knechtel Millwork Ltd., 202 White Oak Rd., London, Ont. N6E 3A1 use a solution of one quart household bleach and three quarts water to remove mildew.) Again, wear gloves and read all label directions^ •After removing dirt, grease or mildew, rinse away cleaner with water. Let surface dry before painting. •Scrape away peeling paint. Scrape away rust from metal areas. •Sand rusted nailheads. Use a nail punch and hammer to sink the nail slightly below the surface. Then, cover the nailhead with corrosion-resistant primer and putty. Sand the area smooth. •Fill open cracks between build­ ing materials with caulk to protect against moisture. Consult paint label for instructions about prim­ ing these areas before paint is applied. •Spot prime-bare areas and rusted metal areas before paint­ ing. Remember, careful prepara­ tion determines the quality and durability of your painting efforts. APPLIANCES REFRIGERATORS 15.2 cu. ft. total volume $1260.00 17.4 cu. ft. total volume $1340.00 BUILT-IN OVENS •Delay, cook & hold timer •Rotary clock •Variable bake/broil •Reversible side swing door •Roast meter •Rotisserie •Porcelain Broil Pan Smith Appliances RR 2, Listowel, - Hwy. 86 ¥4 miles west of Listowel 291-3810