Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the
Beaconsfield Condominium Window Replacement Project
This is Frequently Asked Questions about the Beaconsfield Condominium
Window Replacement Project Plan. As such, it is part of the project plan.
Disclaimer: Please note that these FAQs are our best tentative to provide as much information as we can about the project. However, in some instances some answers may become obsolete as things change. Please check with Management if you have specific questions that are most important to you and you need a more definite response.
Window Replacement Project Plan. As such, it is part of the project plan.
Disclaimer: Please note that these FAQs are our best tentative to provide as much information as we can about the project. However, in some instances some answers may become obsolete as things change. Please check with Management if you have specific questions that are most important to you and you need a more definite response.
Basic
Exterior Window Frame Color
Cost and Payment
Casement vs. Double Hung Windows
Schedule
Brand and Quality of New Windows
Screens
Air Conditioners and Vents
Results of Window Style Survey
Miscellaneous
- Why are we replacing the windows?
- What is the cost for me?
- What do the costs cover?
- What are the some advantages and disadvantages of the two windows configurations for the living room? (As determined by the vote on Question 2)
- What’s the difference between an opening and a window?
Exterior Window Frame Color
- What do the different window frame exterior colors look like?
- What are the considerations when deciding on the color for the frames?
Cost and Payment
- What is the monthly cost if I choose to finance the replacement through the Condo Association?
- How will owners choose between the 5 and the 7 year loan?
- Can you tell more about the estimated cost for each scenario?
- Is it possible for individual owners to pay off their portion of the loan early?
- Can I get an exact cost for my unit?
- How will I pay the monthly loan payment?
- How will the loan work if I decide to sell?
- Why do I need to pay if I oppose the replacement of the windows?
Casement vs. Double Hung Windows
- Why are you proposing to switch from casement (Current type) to double hung windows (Open/close by pulling up and down)?
- What’s the difference between casement and double hung windows?
Schedule
- If the project is approved, when will the windows be installed?
- What’s the new tentative timeline then?
Brand and Quality of New Windows
- What brand of windows are you proposing?
- What’s the quality of the proposed new windows?
- Do you have a brochure of the Ultrex Fiberglass material?
Screens
- Will the windows have screens?
Air Conditioners and Vents
- Will my AC unit fit in the new windows?
- Who will be responsible for removing and reinstalling AC units? And the blinds?
- Can we recycle the AC units?
- Can I install a vent in the windows of the bathroom?
Results of Window Style Survey
- What were the results of the previous Window Style Survey?
Miscellaneous
- Will there be a need for touch up paint? Who will do it and who will pay for it?
- Do I need to be at home when the installer does the job?
- How long is it going to take to replace the windows in my unit?
- Have you identified a vendor already?
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Why are we replacing the windows?
Several owners lamented that the our current windows are obsolete, they do not keep the cold out during the winter, and they are breaking down. Moreover, some owners would like to improve the building appearance with more contemporary windows that will improve not only the appearance but, more importantly, the value of our condos.
What is the cost for me?
It depends on how many windows there are in your unit, and what types of configuration the owners choose for the windows in the living room (As determined by the vote on Question 1).
We estimate that the cost can range from
There is more information in the Costs and Payments section below.
What does the cost cover?
The windows, installation, supervision, and taxes.
Several owners lamented that the our current windows are obsolete, they do not keep the cold out during the winter, and they are breaking down. Moreover, some owners would like to improve the building appearance with more contemporary windows that will improve not only the appearance but, more importantly, the value of our condos.
What is the cost for me?
It depends on how many windows there are in your unit, and what types of configuration the owners choose for the windows in the living room (As determined by the vote on Question 1).
We estimate that the cost can range from
- $4,400 for a small unit with three openings/5 windows and two 34” double hung windows side by side configuration in the living room
- $7,600 for a large unit with 7 openings/8 windows and Ttwo 18” double hung windows surrounding a 32" central fixed pane configuration in the living room.
There is more information in the Costs and Payments section below.
What does the cost cover?
The windows, installation, supervision, and taxes.
What are the some advantages and disadvantages of the two windows configurations for the living room? (As determined by the vote on Question 2)
Two ~18” double hung windows surrounding a ~32” central fixed pane (Picture window):
Two 34” double hung windows side by side configuration:
What’s the difference between an opening and a window?
An ‘opening’ is the hole in the wall where one or more windows are installed. A window is a pane of glass enclosed in a frame of wood, vinyl, or fiberglass. For example, most kitchens have one windows in one opening. Most bedrooms have two windows in one opening. In general, openings larger than 36-40” require two windows.
Two ~18” double hung windows surrounding a ~32” central fixed pane (Picture window):
- It is consistent with the current style of the buildings.
- No obstruction to the view through the central pane.
- AC units can be installed in the side 18” double hung window.
- AC units must be less than 18” wide to fit in the narrower window.
- About $300 more expensive.
Two 34” double hung windows side by side configuration:
- About $300 less expensive.
- It will be consistent with the style of all other windows.
- Fits a broad range of AC units.
What’s the difference between an opening and a window?
An ‘opening’ is the hole in the wall where one or more windows are installed. A window is a pane of glass enclosed in a frame of wood, vinyl, or fiberglass. For example, most kitchens have one windows in one opening. Most bedrooms have two windows in one opening. In general, openings larger than 36-40” require two windows.
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What do the different window frame exterior colors look like?
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White
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Brown
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What are the considerations when deciding on the color for the frames?
- The color of the frame is the same on the interior and exterior.
- The dark color is perceived by some as more elegant
- Consider how you would like to match the color of the windows with your interiors.
- The frame can be painted on the interior to match your existing color scheme.
- Brown costs about $30 more per windows
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What is the monthly cost if I choose to finance the replacement through the Condo Association?
The monthly cost ranges from about
How will owners choose between the 5 and the 7 year loan?
The owners who wish to finance their payment must decide on either a 5 year or 7 year term for their loan by a majority vote. Watch for a survey this winter to determine whether the majority of owners would prefer a 5 year or a 7 year loan. Management has obtained an agreement with a local bank to finance the windows replacement project at a 5.125% interest rate for either a 5 year or 7 year loan.
Can you tell more about the estimated cost for each scenario?
The monthly cost ranges from about
- $60 for a 7 year loan for the smallest units (Three openings/5 windows) and two 34” double hung windows side by side configuration in the living room
- $144 for a 5 year loan for the largest unit (7 openings/8 windows) and two 18” double hung windows surrounding a 32" central fixed pane configuration in the living room.
How will owners choose between the 5 and the 7 year loan?
The owners who wish to finance their payment must decide on either a 5 year or 7 year term for their loan by a majority vote. Watch for a survey this winter to determine whether the majority of owners would prefer a 5 year or a 7 year loan. Management has obtained an agreement with a local bank to finance the windows replacement project at a 5.125% interest rate for either a 5 year or 7 year loan.
Can you tell more about the estimated cost for each scenario?
Is it possible for individual owners to pay off their portion of the loan early?
Unfortunately this option is not available. Owners can either pay cash at completion of the replacement project or activate the loan for the duration indicated by the Bank. Alternatively, you could pay cash and activate your own loan with the bank of your choice to finance your cash payment. In this case you have the option of paying off your loan earlier, based on your bank agreement.
Can I get an exact cost for my unit?
We are unable to provide the exact cost for each unit at this time. Determining the exact cost will be possible after the vendor does a site visit, get an exact count of the windows in the units and common areas, and measure the actual sizes of each opening (Openings are not all the same). Site visits will happen after Management issues a purchase order, if the project is approved.
Moreover, the exact cost depends on the configuration and colors that will be selected in the September survey to vote for the project.
How will I pay the monthly loan payment?
It will show as a distinct item on your monthly condo fee.
How will the loan work if I decide to sell?
The new owner will pay for the remaining loan. The loan is between the Condo Association and the bank.
Why do I need to pay if I oppose the replacement of the windows?
The windows replacement project is an improvement of the property that will benefit the value of all units, including your unit. Moreover, because we are switching the window style from the current ‘casement’ to ‘double hung’, the buildings would look neglected and lose value if the windows had different styles.
Unfortunately this option is not available. Owners can either pay cash at completion of the replacement project or activate the loan for the duration indicated by the Bank. Alternatively, you could pay cash and activate your own loan with the bank of your choice to finance your cash payment. In this case you have the option of paying off your loan earlier, based on your bank agreement.
Can I get an exact cost for my unit?
We are unable to provide the exact cost for each unit at this time. Determining the exact cost will be possible after the vendor does a site visit, get an exact count of the windows in the units and common areas, and measure the actual sizes of each opening (Openings are not all the same). Site visits will happen after Management issues a purchase order, if the project is approved.
Moreover, the exact cost depends on the configuration and colors that will be selected in the September survey to vote for the project.
How will I pay the monthly loan payment?
It will show as a distinct item on your monthly condo fee.
How will the loan work if I decide to sell?
The new owner will pay for the remaining loan. The loan is between the Condo Association and the bank.
Why do I need to pay if I oppose the replacement of the windows?
The windows replacement project is an improvement of the property that will benefit the value of all units, including your unit. Moreover, because we are switching the window style from the current ‘casement’ to ‘double hung’, the buildings would look neglected and lose value if the windows had different styles.
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Why are you proposing to switch from casement (Current type) to double hung windows (Open/close by pulling up and down)?
Double hung windows are easier to clean (Sashes tilt-out), lower maintenance, AC friendly, and less expensive.
What’s the difference between casement and double hung windows?
See for example this description: https://revivalsash.com/casement-vs-double-hung-windows-which-one-is-right-for-your-space/
Double hung windows are easier to clean (Sashes tilt-out), lower maintenance, AC friendly, and less expensive.
What’s the difference between casement and double hung windows?
See for example this description: https://revivalsash.com/casement-vs-double-hung-windows-which-one-is-right-for-your-space/
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If the project is approved, when will the windows be installed?
Unfortunately, we have just heard from the vendor that delivery time recently has been extended to about two months after placing a purchase order. The longer than expected delivery time is due in part to a high demand of windows and in part to factory retooling. To avoid installing the windows in the middle of the winter season, Management advises us to postpone installation to the Spring of 2019.
What’s the new tentative timeline then?
Unfortunately, we have just heard from the vendor that delivery time recently has been extended to about two months after placing a purchase order. The longer than expected delivery time is due in part to a high demand of windows and in part to factory retooling. To avoid installing the windows in the middle of the winter season, Management advises us to postpone installation to the Spring of 2019.
What’s the new tentative timeline then?
- End of September: The owners vote whether or not to move forward with the windows replacement improvement project.
- October: If the windows replacement project is approved, Management places a purchase order. Owners pay a deposit.
- Fall: The vendor completes onsite measurement of openings in each unit and the common areas.
- Winter: Management coordinates with owners to determine which form of payment each owner choose: Cash at completion of the project or monthly payment.
- Spring 2019: Windows are installed. Owners start to pay back the loans or pay cash.
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What brand of windows are you proposing?
Marvin Integrity (https://www.marvin.com/), is a Minnesota company in business since the 1950s.
What’s the quality of the proposed new windows?
The proposed windows are made of Ultrex Fiberglass by Marvin Integrity. This material has several advantages including: Zero thermal expansion i.e. the windows will not creep or deform over time; 8 times stronger than vinyl; Estimated 38% longer lifespan than vinyl; Less waste because of its longer life cycle; Environmentally friendly because it is made of sand, an abundant natural source; Maintenance-free because it stays true to its form due to its strength; Won't discolor, warp, rot, corrode, dent, or rust; Does not absorb moisture and is not affected by UV exposure. More glass area because, due to its strength, the frame does not need to be as bulky as vinyl. For more: https://www.consumersearch.com/replacement-windows/fiberglass-replacement-windows
Do you have a brochure of the Ultrex Fiberglass material?
Sure: https://www.marvinbymhc.com/sites/default/files/literature/Ultrex%20Brochure.pdf
Marvin Integrity (https://www.marvin.com/), is a Minnesota company in business since the 1950s.
What’s the quality of the proposed new windows?
The proposed windows are made of Ultrex Fiberglass by Marvin Integrity. This material has several advantages including: Zero thermal expansion i.e. the windows will not creep or deform over time; 8 times stronger than vinyl; Estimated 38% longer lifespan than vinyl; Less waste because of its longer life cycle; Environmentally friendly because it is made of sand, an abundant natural source; Maintenance-free because it stays true to its form due to its strength; Won't discolor, warp, rot, corrode, dent, or rust; Does not absorb moisture and is not affected by UV exposure. More glass area because, due to its strength, the frame does not need to be as bulky as vinyl. For more: https://www.consumersearch.com/replacement-windows/fiberglass-replacement-windows
Do you have a brochure of the Ultrex Fiberglass material?
Sure: https://www.marvinbymhc.com/sites/default/files/literature/Ultrex%20Brochure.pdf
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Will the windows have screens?
The price includes half screens.
The price includes half screens.
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Will my AC unit fit in the new windows?
It depends on the characteristics of your AC unit. But most likely you will need to replace it because AC units for double hung windows have a different way to fit into a window compared to AC units for casement windows.
Who will be responsible for removing and reinstalling my AC units? And the blinds?
If most owners would like it, Management could hire a handyman to do the job. Otherwise owners will need to clear the area around the windows including removing the AC units and the blinds before the window replacement, and reinstalling them after the replacement is completed.
Can we recycle the AC units?
We are exploring options. Note that it is illegal to dispose of your AC unit(s) in the trash. Some retailers will take back your AC unit when you purchase a new one. If it is in good order, you may donate it. Let us know if you have ideas. We are interested to learn about our options.
Can I install a vent in the windows of the bathroom?
It can be tricky on the characteristics of your vent, a vent will reduce or even impede the ability of the sash to move up and, therefore, open the window.
It depends on the characteristics of your AC unit. But most likely you will need to replace it because AC units for double hung windows have a different way to fit into a window compared to AC units for casement windows.
Who will be responsible for removing and reinstalling my AC units? And the blinds?
If most owners would like it, Management could hire a handyman to do the job. Otherwise owners will need to clear the area around the windows including removing the AC units and the blinds before the window replacement, and reinstalling them after the replacement is completed.
Can we recycle the AC units?
We are exploring options. Note that it is illegal to dispose of your AC unit(s) in the trash. Some retailers will take back your AC unit when you purchase a new one. If it is in good order, you may donate it. Let us know if you have ideas. We are interested to learn about our options.
Can I install a vent in the windows of the bathroom?
It can be tricky on the characteristics of your vent, a vent will reduce or even impede the ability of the sash to move up and, therefore, open the window.
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What were the results of the previous Window Style Survey?
Below are the questions and responses to the Window Style Survey that was emailed last August 24, 2018.
Below are the questions and responses to the Window Style Survey that was emailed last August 24, 2018.
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With respect to the living room windows, which of the following two configurations do you prefer?
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Will there be a need for touch up paint? Who will do it and who will pay for it?
Touch-up paint, if needed, will be responsibility of each owner. However, we hope pending on how the new windows fit in the openings, there might not be a need for touch up paint.
Do I need to be at home when the installer does the job?
Management will coordinate the work with owners, including opening the door of your unit to the installer and supervise the installation if you cannot be at home, included in the price.
How long is it going to take to replace the windows in my unit?
It will take about a day depending on how many windows there are in your unit. The crew can handle up to two units per day for a total of 6-7 weeks of work to complete all 56 units.
Have you identified a vendor already?
We examined offers from the vendors listed below. JBSash offered the best combination of materials, design, cost, and customer service.
Touch-up paint, if needed, will be responsibility of each owner. However, we hope pending on how the new windows fit in the openings, there might not be a need for touch up paint.
Do I need to be at home when the installer does the job?
Management will coordinate the work with owners, including opening the door of your unit to the installer and supervise the installation if you cannot be at home, included in the price.
How long is it going to take to replace the windows in my unit?
It will take about a day depending on how many windows there are in your unit. The crew can handle up to two units per day for a total of 6-7 weeks of work to complete all 56 units.
Have you identified a vendor already?
We examined offers from the vendors listed below. JBSash offered the best combination of materials, design, cost, and customer service.
- JBSash, Chelsea (MA) https://www.jbsash.com/
- Harvey https://www.harveybp.com/
- Home Depot https://www.homedepot.com/
- Pella https://www.pella.com/
- Budget Exterior http://budget-exteriors.com/
- Macleod & Moynihan Windows and Doors https://www.macmoy.com/
- NEWPRO https://www.newpro.com