Keeping the heat out

During the summer, your air conditioner must work harder to cool hot air from sunny windows. Install ENERGY STAR®-qualified windows and use curtains and shade to give your air conditioner and energy bill a break.

If your home has single-pane windows, consider replacing them with double-pane windows with high-performance glass—low-e or spectrally selective coatings. In colder climates, select gas-filled windows with low-e coatings to reduce heat loss. In warmer climates, select windows with spectrally selective coatings to reduce heat gain.

If you decide not to replace your windows, consider following these tips to improve their performance.

• Install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from the house.
• Close curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the day.
• Install awnings on south- and west-facing windows.
• Apply sun-control or other reflective films on south-facing windows to reduce solar heat gain.

Glass is't just for Windows

Glass isn’t just for Windows!

When thinking of glass, most people think windows for their home, car or business. But you would be amazed at how many other things Glass Doctor works on. Glass is often used in home décor on items such as tabletops, cabinets, shelving, showers and patio doors.

Glass-topped dining tables are very stylish and don’t stain or warp like wooden tables can. They also don’t require polishing, and you can place hot dishes directly on the glass. Many people choose a glass top for a table so they can customize the shape and size such as round, rectangle, square or to custom fit a specific area.

Many homeowners opt for glass shelves, as they appear to float and don’t detract from the items being showcased. This leads to clean lines in a home and can be utilized in all rooms for displaying items such as books, candles, flowers and more. And new technology allows for tongue and groove glass shelves that require no unsightly hardware.  

Shower doors are often used in place of shower curtains. A beautiful shower is the centerpiece of any bathroom. It allows light into the space and can make showering more enjoyable. A well-appointed bathroom can greatly increase the value of your home. Glass Doctor has many shapes, sizes, designs and colors available for handling your updating needs. 

Patio Doors take a lot of abuse at home with people in and out on a daily basis. Ensuring that you have energy efficient glass in these doors will help keep the heat in and reduce your energy costs. Not only are these doors an outlet to your yard but also they serve as security and a light source. Make sure you select and maintain your patio glass with care.

Whatever your glass needs, Glass Doctor has many different styles to best suit your home and your décor needs.

Family Day Fun on the North Shore

BC Family Day - February 10th 2014 

What is happening on the North Shore:

Want to make the most of what your local rec centre has to offer? Check out the listing of family friendly events planned just for Family Day here at our local North-Shore Recreation centres:

• West Vancouver Community Center
• North Vancouver Recreation Commission

Hit the slopes! Grab your skis or snow board and get out there. Find all the BC ski-deals here: http://www.cwsaa.org/marketing/bc-family-day.html or check out what's happening on our local hills below:

• Cypress
• Grouse
• Seymour

Maplewood Farm will be open to celebrate BC’s first Family Day. The popluar pony rides will be back for the day! For pony will take children on trips around the farm (Cost $5). The pony rides are are first-come, first served. The farm will be open on Monday, February 10th from 10am to 4pm.

What is happening Across the Bridge:

Robson Square is hosting a free skate for Family Day: http://www.robsonsquare.com/

The Vancouver Art Gallery is offering free admissions for children 12 and under, it’s a great way to experience art in BC: http://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/events_and_programs/calendar_of_events.html