FAQS

Tyee windows are manufactured and sold exclusively at the Tyee plant and showroom in Abbotsford, located at 1100A Riverside Drive. Call us at 604-854-6900, toll-free at 1-800-851-8933 or stop in at our showroom and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Yes. We sell our windows and patio doors direct to homeowners, builders and architects. There is no minimum order. Our customers receive the same high quality product, service and attention whether they place a large order or purchase a single window.

Tyee is located in Abbotsford, BC and primarily delivers in the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland. However, shipping outside these areas is available on a quoted basis.

Vinyl Frames – Clean with mild dish soap and water. Rinse and wipe dry. For hard-to-remove dirt, use non-abrasive sink and counter cleaning creams, or specialized products for cleaning vinyl surfaces in vehicles. Never use abrasive or acidic cleaners, solvents or stripping compounds. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first. Certain stains, such as felt-tip pens, cannot be removed. If this happens, it is better to replace the affected part. Glass - Clean with mild dish soap and water. Rinse with clear water and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Never use petroleum-based cleaners, caustic chemicals, razor blades, putty knives, abrasive pads or high-pressure water hoses on any part of your window or patio door as it may damage the glass surface or sealed unit. Screens - Use a mild dish soap, water and soft brush. Rinse well and wipe dry. Moving Parts - Regularly remove dust, sand and dirt that builds up in window recesses and guides, especially windows exposed to extreme winds or located close to ground level. Add a drop of lubricant in the spring and fall to all moving part contact points. For sliders, remove annually and spray wheels a silicone lubricant. Do not paint metal parts or weather-stripping as this could affect the operation of your windows and patio doors.

Wood windows are great insulators but they are prone to weather deterioration and require painting regularly. Aluminum windows are durable but offer little insulating value because they conduct energy. Vinyl windows – especially those with multi-chambered frames with precision welded corners – are your best choice because they are extremely durable, possess excellent thermal qualities, and are virtually maintenance free.

Removing and replacing the windows in an entire house can typically be completed in 1-2 days.

In the majority of cases we are able to successfully reconnect alarm contacts to windows and doors after a renovation. If, however, we are unable to do so, you will need to contact your alarm system company and arrange for reconnection of contacts. In either case, you will need to have your alarm company inspect the job to verify that the alarm system will still work

There are many different methods to install windows that will vary depending on your application. It is best to consult with your sales rep and visit the Tyee showroom to see the range of installation methods and determine which is best for your project.

These are general installation instructions for vinyl windows and sliding patio doors for new construction BC wood framed single family homes. It is the installer’s responsibility to perform proper installation of the product. All windows and doors are to be installed level, plumb, and square with minimum ¼” clearance on all sides. Sills must be fully supported with wood or plastic shims, no more than 6” from the corners and under all vertical mullions. Doors must be fully supported across the full width of the door. The bottom and sides of all windows and doors are to be nailed to the wood framing with 2 ½” galvanized roofing nails or equivalent screws. Nails to be placed no greater than 12” intervals on flanges less than 97” or no greater than 6” on flanges greater than 97”. The header flanges of all windows and doors are to be fastened with 2” metal header clips at the same spacing as the bottom and side flanges. There is to be 3/8” clearance from the top of the flange to the step in the header clip. These instructions are meant to be a general guide for window installation. For specific installation requirements regarding weatherproofing please contact your envelope consultant. Tyee Manufacturing assumes no responsibility for improperly installed products.

There are three types of window condensation and only one of them indicates an issue with your windows. Condensation on the inside of windows: Condensation forms on the inside of windows when warm, moist indoor air comes into contact with a cooler glass surface. As the air cools, it can’t hold as much moisture, causing water droplets to appear on the glass. This is common in well‑sealed, energy‑efficient homes where humidity becomes trapped indoors from everyday activities like cooking, showering, and even breathing. While some condensation is normal—especially during colder months—persistent moisture may be a sign that your home’s humidity levels are too high or that ventilation could be improved. Condensation on exterior of windows: Exterior condensation occurs when the outer surface of your window becomes cooler than the surrounding outdoor air, causing moisture in the air to condense on the glass. This typically happens on clear, calm mornings when humidity outside is high and the glass surface cools overnight. While it may look concerning, exterior condensation is actually a sign that your windows are well‑insulated—the indoor heat isn’t escaping to warm the outer glass. In short, it’s a normal, temporary effect of weather conditions and usually disappears as the outdoor temperature rises. Condensation between window panes: Condensation between the two panes of glass is a sign that the window’s seal may have failed. Double and triple‑pane windows are filled with argon gas and sealed to keep moisture out, but if that seal breaks down air and humidity can enter the space between the panes. Because this area is not ventilated, trapped moisture condenses on the cooler glass surface and creates a foggy or hazy appearance that won’t wipe off from either side. Unfortunately, once the seal is compromised, the only long‑term solution is to repair or replace the affected unit.