How to speak and understand builder-ease
By Rina D’Angelo - New Dream Homes and Condos
From laminate to low-e, the descriptions of the features and finishes of your new home, though romantically worded, are often difficult to decipher. These definitions will help you crack the builder’s code and make an informed new-home purchase.
WINDOWS
Wood
A great insulator, can be stained or painted and is a standard material for window frames for most residential homes. Exposure to the elements will eventually cause paint to peel and moisture can cause rot though with proper maintenance wooden window frames can last for generations.
Vinyl
Inexpensive, durable, energy efficient and virtually maintenance-free, vinyl is a popular choice for window frames. Colour is continuous throughout the material so scratches are undetectable. As they cannot be painted be sure to choose a neutral colour; light shades are best as darker hues will fade over time.
Fibreglass
Relatively new to the homebuilding industry fibreglass frames are extremely durable and low-maintenance. More energy efficient than wood and they can be painted, however all these perks are balanced by their high price point.
Composite
Usually a combination of wood with an exterior aluminium or vinyl cladding, composite frames combine the low-maintenance features of vinyl with the flexibility to paint exposed wood frames in the home’s interior.
Low-e and Argon Windows
Low-emissivity (or low-e) windows have a thin, transparent coating over the panes to reduce the amount of heat lost through the glass and prevent ultraviolet rays from entering your home. These high-efficiency windows will reduce your hydro bill and protect your furniture and flooring from fading. Argon windows offer similar advantages. Double-paned with a layer of argon-gas trapped in between to reduce conductivity and the emission of UV rays.
Muntin Bars
An aesthetic feature, vertical and horizontal divides are placed between the panes to create the look of old colonial windows. Although attractive some tests have shown that these additions can cause fogging (due to the release of gasses from vinyl muntins exposed to UV light) and can increase the internal temperature of the window thus reducing their energy efficiency.
FLOORING
Engineered Hardwood
Durable and practical this flooring consists of a plywood or high density fibre (HDF) core with a thin hardwood outer layer (veneer). A great option for basements or other areas where heat and moisture are a problem, unlike solid wood, these floors will not warp, can be refinished (though not repeatedly) and are a fraction of the coat of hardwood flooring.
Laminate
Similar to engineered hardwood, laminate floors consist of a HDF core though the finish is a photographic layer with the look of wood. The least expensive option, these floors cannot be refinished but are easily installed and can be replaced.
Solid Hardwood
The real deal…also the most expensive option. These floors can be refinished numerous times, are durable, classic and add to the resale value of a home.
ROOFING
Fibreglass Shingles
Made of asphalt with a fibreglass reinforcing mat they are the most popular choice for residential homes in North America. These inexpensive shingles come in a variety of colours, are durable, low-maintenance and are often guaranteed to last for more than 20 years.
Organic-mat Shingles
More expensive than fibreglass though more durable, they consist of a wood-derived mat coated in asphalt. These shingles are more flexible in cold weather and perform better than fibreglass in tear and nail tests. Also guaranteed to last more than 20 years.
Composite Shake Shingles
All the look of cedar but cheaper and easier on the conscience, this Canadian invention (from Guelph, Ontario), is constructed from recycled materials such as used tires, plastics, flax and hemp fibres. Durable, mold, mildew and insect resistant, these maintenance-free shingles come with a transferable 50 year warranty.
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Contact the Jeffrey Team for more information - 416-388-1960
