For 40 years, Magic has provided Toronto and the GTA with some of the most advanced residential windows in the world. Our innovative replacement windows, patio doors and Window Walls can add style and performance to any home. Welcome to our blog, where we provide consumers with the information and inspiration they need to replace vinyl windows in Toronto
Replacing vinyl windows is a long-term home investment that’s essential to get right. If done properly, the right replacement windows are an investment in energy efficiency, security, aesthetics and, ultimately, the value of your home. And while homeowners who are replacing windows in Toronto typically choose standard vinyl windows for their popularity and their price, these designs come with major flaws.
The Main Issue With Vinyl Windows
Vinyl replacement windows are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is the third-most used synthetic polymer in the world. In other words, PVC is simply plastic — nothing more, nothing less. These windows are made of a combination of different plasticizers, pigments and chemicals with hollow chambers that allegedly make for a lighter, more flexible product.
What this really means is that Vinyl PVC window frames lack strength, rigidity and durability. They are disposable products that are highly susceptible to damage, expansion and contraction.
Standard Vinyl Windows in Toronto Aren’t Worth the Cheaper Upfront Cost
Vinyl PVC frames are certainly a cheaper option, which can initially make them an attractive option for homeowners, but they are a poor investment. Over the long run, these frames will expand, contract and often become damaged, forcing homeowners to replace their windows far sooner than should be necessary.
Even though vinyl PVC is a cost-effective, energy-efficient material that allows window manufacturers to weld corners to create a perfect seal, these attributes don’t make up for the problematic structural flaws inherent in hollow vinyl frames.
What Issues Can Arise With Older Vinyl Windows?
Expansion and contraction
Outdated, cheaper vinyl window frames are prone to expansion and contraction in fluctuating weather conditions. Given how drastically Canadian weather conditions can shift from summer to winter, this issue is especially problematic in places like Toronto and the GTA. Expansion and contraction can put a tremendous amount of strain on the entire window unit and will eventually lead to permanent damage.
A broken or failed seal
Structural integrity aside, the constant expansion and contraction of vinyl frames can also lead to a lost or broken seal. As the window’s seal breaks down, it loses its insulating properties which can lead to moisture seepage and unwanted air transfer.
Warping and sagging due to outdated crank hardware
Traditional vinyl casement windows open and shut like a door through the use of a crank located at the bottom of the window frame. And though these crank mechanisms have been used for decades, they are mechanically flawed: they strip, break and loosen over time. Plus, crank mechanisms create uneven weight distribution and cause the sash (the part of the window that actually opens) to move unevenly within the frame. This inevitably leads to the sash warping, bowing and sagging.
Discover a Better Way to Replace Vinyl Windows in Toronto
The main reason why homeowners come to us to replace their windows is that their vinyl frames have failed or lost their seal. It begs the question then: why replace one flawed window design with a newer version of the same thing?
When it comes time to replace vinyl windows in Toronto, the benefit of choosing Magic is simple. We manufacture and install stronger, more durable replacement windows backed by over 40 years of research and engineering expertise. Here are the two primary features that set our replacement windows apart from our competitors.
1. Hybrid Fusion Frame Technology
Magic began as a manufacturer of aluminum windows. As such, we understand and have an appreciation for the structural advantages of these frames. That said, it’s well known that aluminum is the least efficient frame material due to its high thermal conductivity.
Our solution was to combine the superior strength and durability of aluminum, with the energy-efficiency and welded corners of vinyl frames. Our Hybrid Fusion Frame window design uses a skeleton of 18-gauge galvanized stainless steel and anodized aluminum wrapped in rigid unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (U-PVC). So while we still use a form of high-quality PVC as the outer layer for these reinforced designs, our frames are not hollow.
We provide the best of both worlds: the strength and durability of steel and aluminum with the efficiency of high-performing U-PVC.
What you get with Hybrid Fusion Frame windows and doors:
- A rock-solid frame constructed from anodized aluminum and stainless steel
- An outer layer of U-PVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride)
- The long-lasting strength and support of steel and aluminum
- A durable and efficient vinyl surface that won’t expand or contract
- A stylish, ultra-slim profile that places visual emphasis on the window’s glass
- Above all, a cost-effective, high-performance window frame material that we guarantee will last 40 years or more
2. Parallex HardwareTM: Crankless Casement Windows
To recap: crank mechanisms are mechanically flawed and prone to numerous issues. Plus, crank mechanisms create uneven weight distribution and cause the sash to move unevenly within the frame. This inevitably leads to problems with sagging, bowing and warping.
To solve this very common design flaw, we created the ParallexTM hardware system. ParallexTM hardware is an award-winning system that eliminates the crank altogether. It does so by easing operation and improving the window’s durability, performance and functionality.
By installing a large galvanized steel rod through the internal part of the sash, ParallexTM technology allows the top and bottom of the sash to move in complete tandem. This addition evenly distributes the weight within the frame. Without the need for cranks or hinges of any kind, the likelihood of mechanical failure is slim to none.
ParallexTM technology improves energy efficiency through tighter seals. It also creates a wider opening for better views, improved ventilation and an easier route of escape.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PARALLEX HARDWARE >>
Looking to Replace Vinyl Windows in Toronto? Contact Magic
If you have more questions about your vinyl windows, contact us today for a free, no-hassle consultation. We will explain our technology, energy efficiency, or anything else that concerns your windows.
One of our representatives will walk you through every aspect of the window replacement process. They will also help you understand the configurations and customizations that will best suit your home.
BOOK A FREE, NO HASSLE CONSULTATION TODAY >>
Learn More About Window Replacement in Toronto on Our Blog:
- Toronto Window Replacement: Everything You Need to Know
- Window Replacement in Toronto: 4 Reasons to Go With Us in 2020
- What is the Cost of Window Replacement in Toronto?
- A Guide to Purchasing Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows in Toronto
- Premium Toronto Casement Windows: Learn More Here
- Toronto Patio Doors From Magic
- Toronto Star Readers Named Us The Best Window & Door Company: Here’s Why
- The Best Toronto Window Installation & Warranty