For 40 years, Magic has provided 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 make informed decisions about Toronto window replacement.
Understanding Toronto Window Replacement
If you’re in the market for window replacement and installation in Toronto, it is crucial to consult the information and resources you need to make an informed decision about how to move forward. From style and features to energy efficiency and warranties, there is much more than goes into successfully replacing your windows than initially meets the eye. And because new windows are such a significant investment, it’s always better to be prepared. Read on to learn more about the essential factors that go into premium replacement windows and doors. You’ll also learn how Magic provides unparalleled products and customer service to our customers in the GTA.
What Are The Different Window Styles?
From casements, and awnings to patio doors and Window Walls, windows come in all sorts of shapes and sizes.
What’s the Difference Between Fixed and Operable Windows?
Whereas fixed windows do not open and provide airtight seals, the flow of natural light and security, operable windows are able to open and close in a variety of ways, based on the window style. They provide air flow and ventilation, as well as an alternative means of escape from the home in case of emergency.
What are Casement Windows?
Casement style windows are attached to the frame by one or more hinges and can have upwards of five to six sashes (the moveable parts of the window). Typically, they open and shut by means of crank located at the bottom of the frame. When closed, locking mechanisms on the frame pull the sash up against the frame and lock it tightly in position. These windows can be hinged to open outward or inward and are excellent for natural ventilation.
What are Horizontal Sliding Windows?
Horizontal slider windows have two panes of glass in separate sashes mounted side by side in the frame. The sashes slide horizontally and are found in single-sash and double-sash designs. Most designs have at least one removable sash.
What are Single- and Double-Hung Windows?
As opposed to horizontal slider windows, both single- and double-hung windows operate by sliding the sash up and down.
What are Awning Windows?
Awning windows swing outward from the bottom. They operate by means of a roto-gear and crank or a simple push-out lever. The hardware does not allow these windows to open all the way. Awning windows close by sealing up against the frame, which helps to create an airtight compression seal.
What are Patio Doors?
Patio door windows should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They have the ability to transform any interior space by maximizing natural light and enhancing outdoor views.
What is the Window Wall?
The Window Wall is considered one of the most revolutionary and dynamic window products in North America. It’s constructed from autonomous panels that operate independently from one another, allowing the user to manipulate and customize the size of the opening. Our beautiful Window Walls fit perfectly into living rooms, indoor pool rooms or patio rooms to create flow between the indoor space and the outdoor space.
Our Patented ParallexⓇ Hardware Revolutionizes Toronto Window Replacement
When it comes to operable windows (especially casement windows), one of the most recognizable pieces of hardware is the crank. But while this piece of hardware has endured for some time, it’s now outdated. Because cranks only work by moving the sash at the bottom, the top of the sash only ever reacts to this movement. Over time, the unbalanced distribution of motion will cause the sash to warp, sag and bow within the frame. Crank mechanisms also stand a greater chance to strip, break and loosen over years of use.
In designing our Magic-Series windows, we decided to innovate rather than falling back on the same old crank mechanism. Parallex® hardware is an award-winning system that eliminates the crank, easing operation and improving the window’s durability, performance and functionality. By installing large galvanized steel rod through the internal part of the sash, Parallex® technology forces the top and bottom of the sash to move in complete tandem.
Without the need for cranks or hinges of any kind, mechanical failures are a non-factor with Magic-Series casement windows. Parallex® technology also improves energy efficiency through tighter seals, and creates a wider opening for better views, improved ventilation and an accessible route of escape in case of emergency.
Performance-Enhancing Window Features Designed for Life in Toronto
Whether it’s the drastically shifting climate, or the need for a secure home, quality replacement windows are essential in the Toronto area.
1. Custom Formulated, Energy Efficient Glass
At Magic, we custom-formulate all of our glass to ensure that each window meets the specific preferences of the homeowners we work with. Here are just some of the features we work into our glass.
Low-E Coated Window Glass (Low-Emissivity Window Glass)
Refers to a window’s ability to regulate temperature. Emissivity speaks to how effectively a material radiates energy. In the case of windows, this means heat from the sun or internal heat from an HVAC unit. When the glass has a low emissivity, it reflects this heat far better than it absorbs or emits it. The ultimate goal of Low-E coating is to maximize the thermal efficiency of the window according to the climate in which it’s situated.
Double Glaze vs. Triple Glaze
If a window has two panes, it is double-glazed; three panes, triple-glazed. Many companies claim that their triple-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than double-glazed windows, but this is misleading. While our custom-made double-glazed windows pass the rigorous energy efficiency standards of organizations like the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), many other double-glazed designs do not. This leads to the need for companies to include an additional pane.
Gas Fills
A process in which the space between panes is filled with krypton or argon gas. These heavier, noble gases are preferable to air because they can better impede heat transfer. Most glass units on the market are separated by ¾ of an inch. Because our patented Parallex® hardware can stand more pressure and external torque than these traditional crank windows, we are able to extend that space to a full inch. This means we can fill our windows with 25% more insulating gas.
Warm Edge Window Spacers
Seals which insulate the edges of the unit and keep the glass panes firmly apart from each other. These spacers are essential to a window’s ability to remain energy efficient over the long term. At Magic, we take this technology further. We utilize a duralight soft edge spacer made of a 4-layer material that naturally expands and contracts with any movement of the unit. This makes seal failure virtually impossible.
2. Retractable Thermal Blinds and Solar Screens
Retractable Insect Window Screens
Outdated insect screens block light, obstruct views and can become clogged with dirt and allergens. With our patented Retractable Slide ‘N’ Hide® technology, we’ve given homeowners complete control over when and how they utilize their window screens.
Built-in Solar Window Screens & Thermal Blinds
Our Solar Screens also utilize Retractable Slide ‘N’ Hide® technology. They allow for unprecedented control over how much solar light and heat enters through a window. Similarly, our retractable Thermal Blinds can double the insulating value of a window. They reduce utility bills by preventing comfortable internal air from escaping the home. These blinds can also completely block out light penetration, providing increased privacy and security.
3. Strong, Slim, Stylish Frames
Magic uses a modified vinyl window frame design. Our Hybrid Fusion Frame design uses a skeleton of steel and aluminum wrapped in vinyl (U-PVC). In this way, we provide the best of both worlds: the strength and durability of steel and aluminum with the efficiency of high-performing U-PVC. Our frames adapt to weather fluctuations, keeping the home better insulated year-round. We’ve also improved on traditional frames with our ultra-slim design, which reduces the frame’s size and maximizes the glass surface to create a more contemporary look.
4. Sleep Easy at Night With Better Security
Our fully secure multi-point locking system holds the window in place in two or more places simultaneously. The locks grab the sash and push it firmly up against the frame. Magic fashions both our cam and multipoint locking systems from stainless steel to ensure security and peace of mind. Our products, such as our Window Wall, have a grade-40 security rating, which is the highest attainable security rating for a product in its class
Custom Aesthetics for Unique Toronto Window Replacement Projects
One of the most striking aspects of Toronto is seeing the incredible variation in home styles. With so many different eras and architectural styles on display, Magic gives homeowners in Toronto the aesthetic flexibility they need to either match an existing style or make a bold statement with their replacement windows.
Custom Textures
Wood window frames can be stunning but they are notoriously high-maintenance. If you’re looking to maintain the classic look of wood, but would rather not deal with things like rotting, denting, peeling and termites, we offer wood-laminated textures in a variety of styles.
Custom Colours
Windows don’t have to be black and white. You can shop an array of colours that suit the interior and exterior of your home. Even the frames and hardware on your windows can be painted to your liking.
Custom Grills
Window grills are often used to achieve a more traditional look. The range of options is infinite, and the designs are fully customizable.
Find Reliable Installation and an Honest Warranty
Designing and manufacturing innovative windows is just half the battle. At Magic, we install all of our own windows to ensure that they perfectly fitted for every home. Our installers are trained, certified and equipped to bring your vision to life. We install all year round. Summer or winter, cold or hot, mild or humid, and our installers take every necessary precaution to ensure that we leave your home as clean as when we got there. We also monitor our production so that we can give you a realistic time for completion and so that you can plan accordingly.
All of our windows and doors come with a 40-year warranty. Now, if our windows are as amazing as we say, then why don’t we offer a “lifetime” warranty? The answer is simple: “lifetime” warranties don’t really mean anything.
The Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) tells consumers to specifically watch for phrases such as “lifetime warranty” because there is often no legal definition associated with it. That’s why we offer you the industry’s best 40-year warranty. No more misleading information and voided warranties – simply the best product and service care on the market. View a comprehensive copy of our warranty here.
Magic is a Leader in Toronto Window Replacement
Now that you have the facts and the resources, book a free, no hassle consultation with one of our technicians. We will walk you through every aspect of the window replacement process, helping you to understand the configurations and customizations that will best suit your home. Toronto window replacement doesn’t have to be overwhelming or a hassle. With Magic, it can be a seamless experience from start to finish.
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Learn More About Toronto Window Replacement on Our Blog:
- What is the Cost of Window Replacement in Toronto?
- Premium Toronto Casement Windows: Learn More Here
- The Best Toronto Installation and Warranty
- Discover the Most Durable & Secure Replacement Windows in Toronto
- A Guide to Purchasing Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows in Toronto
- Discover a Better Way to Replace Vinyl Windows in Toronto
- Toronto Star Readers Named Us The Best Window & Door Company: Here’s Why
- Toronto Patio Doors From Magic