FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Habitat Verre, we know that an outdoor landscaping project raises many questions — and that you don't buy a tempered glass railing or a bioclimatic pergola every day. So, we've gathered here more than 20 technical answers to guide you with confidence.
Glass thicknesses, stainless steel grades 304/316/2205, compliance of pool fences in Quebec, composite and PVC panels, Amara, Zena, and Orana bioclimatic pergolas, delivery times throughout Canada — it's all here.
And if your project deserves personalized advice, our team in Granby will prepare a free quote for you within 24 to 48 hours.
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How do I choose between tempered glass, composite, and PVC for my project?
The choice depends on your priorities: aesthetics, maintenance, and budget.
- Tempered glass: Unparalleled transparency and elegance for balconies, terraces, and pools. Unobstructed view, high-end finish.
- Wood-polymer composite (EZfence Slim, Original, HD ranges): The warm look of wood, completely maintenance-free (no painting, no rot).
- PVC (EZfence Premium, EZfence Air): Economical, lightweight, Class B fire-rated on some ranges—a practical solution for privacy needs.
Habitat Verre offers all three product families, selected for Quebec's climate. Our team helps you make the right choice for your project.
What are the advantages of tempered glass?
Tempered glass is an excellent choice for fences and railings:
Increased Safety: 4 to 5 times more resistant to mechanical impact than standard glass. If broken, it shatters into small, blunt pieces, reducing the risk of injury.
Durability: resistant to impact, temperature variations, and weathering—ideal for outdoor use.
Modern Aesthetic: elegant and contemporary touch, unobstructed clear view.
Low Maintenance: does not rust, no treatment against humidity or insects.
Adaptability: available in several thicknesses and finishes (clear, frosted, tinted) to match all architectural styles.
All our panels comply with applicable CSA standards; final compliance with the Quebec Building Code depends on installation.
What thickness of glass should I choose: 10 mm or 12 mm?
Exterior railings require tempered glass of at least 10 mm, and ideally 12 mm for applications subject to significant lateral loads: high-rise balconies, pool edges, wind-exposed terraces.
The thicker the glass, the more resistant the panel is to impacts and deformation under load. 12 mm is also recommended for railings without handrails (frameless systems), which transfer all the load to the glass.
Our products are selected to meet the requirements of the Quebec Building Code; final compliance depends on the installation and must be validated by your installer or engineer.
Is tempered glass suitable for a swimming pool?
Absolutely. Tempered glass is one of the best materials for pool environments:
- Resists chlorinated water
- UV resistant
- Tolerates temperature variations
- No special treatment required
For pools, we recommend 316 stainless steel hardware (with molybdenum) for chloride resistance, or 2205 stainless steel (duplex) for saltwater pools. Custom panels integrate perfectly into aquatic spaces.
Is a glass pool fence compliant with Quebec regulations?
Our products are designed to be integrated into an installation that complies with Quebec's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Regulation:
- Minimum height of 1.2 m (4 ft); some municipalities require 1.5 m
- No opening allowing the passage of a 100 mm sphere
- Self-closing gate with automatic locking on the pool side
Mandatory for all in-ground, semi-in-ground, or above-ground pools deeper than 60 cm. Final compliance depends on the installation and must be validated with your municipality.
What is the difference between 304, 316, and 2205 stainless steel grades for hardware?
The choice of stainless steel grade determines the longevity of your hardware (spigots, screws, plates):
- 304: common for indoor or semi-protected environments. Good corrosion resistance under normal conditions.
- 316: incorporates molybdenum — better chloride resistance. Ideal for pool surrounds, coastal areas, de-icing salts.
- 2205 (duplex): very high-strength austenitic-ferritic alloy. Recommended for demanding applications: highly exposed decks, saltwater pools, long sections.
At Habitat Verre, we favor 316 and 2205 for outdoor installations. A quality stainless steel spigot is an investment that lasts for decades.
Does 12mm tempered glass get dirty easily?
No, tempered glass obviously needs to be cleaned from time to time, but it can go for many weeks without being cleaned without its appearance being affected.
As the glass is thick, dirt is not as visible as on thinner glass. Cleaning with soapy water and a squeegee is enough to maintain transparency. For limescale stains or chlorine deposits (poolside), a mild non-abrasive cleaner will do the trick.
Do you offer custom-made glass and panels?
Yes – it's one of our strengths. As each project is unique, we offer custom glass and custom panels to your exact dimensions.
Whether you have an irregular space, an atypical configuration (spiral staircase, curved balcony, pool surround), or particular architectural constraints, our team will help you find the right solution. Contact us for a personalized quote.
What is the difference between Amara, Zena, and Orana pergolas?
Habitat Verre offers three models of bioclimatic pergolas with adjustable aluminum louvers:
- Amara Pergola — stock model available quickly (1 to 5 day delivery). Ideal for standard projects where speed is a priority.
- Zena Pergola — custom-made model (3 to 6 weeks). Configuration adapted to your exact dimensions.
- Orana Pergola — custom-made model (3 to 6 weeks). Another customization option for unique projects.
All our pergolas can be equipped with motorized louvers (remote control, wind/rain sensors), integrated LED lighting, radiant heaters, and screen side blinds. The structures are designed for the snow loads of the Quebec climate.
What is the difference between EZfence Slim, Original, and HD composite ranges?
Our supplier GSQuébec offers three complementary families:
- EZfence Slim — economical residential, 2.5 in × 2.5 in posts, height up to 6 ft, wind up to 90 km/h. Includes Air (PVC), Eco, and Elite Basic lines.
- EZfence Original — high-end residential/commercial, 3 in × 3 in posts, height up to 8 ft, wind up to 100 km/h. Includes Design, Natural, Tropical, Elite, and Premium (fire-resistant PVC).
- EZfence HD — commercial/industrial, 6 in × 6 in posts, height up to 15 ft, wind up to 135 km/h. For large sites and secure fences.
All lines are 100% maintenance-free (no painting, no staining) and available in several colors and textures.
Can I install my glass fence myself?
Absolutely - and we'll be there to support you if needed. Many of our customers (contractors or experienced DIYers) install their own tempered glass railings.
For a successful project, you can add our in-home consultation and measurement service to your order. This step helps avoid most errors (incorrect dimensions, unsuitable mounting for the structure, pool compliance).
Do you offer an installation service?
Yes. Our specialized team handles complete and professional installation in Montérégie and Estrie, ensuring a durable and standard-compliant setup.
For other regions in Quebec and Canada, we can refer you to a partner installer or directly provide your contractor with technical plans and installation sheets. Our team remains available by phone to answer technical questions during the construction.
Do you install products other than glass?
We have access to a large inventory of products and can combine different materials on the same project, as long as there is glass.
- Glass partitions, showers, and wine cellars
- Ornamental aluminum railings and fences
- Ornamental steel fences
- Chain link fences ("Frost")
- Cedar, glass, aluminum, and composite privacy screens
- Amara, Zena, and Orana bioclimatic pergolas
- Corten steel planters
- GSQuébec composite wood and PVC (EZfence and EZdeck ranges)
- Central stringers, treads, and stairs
- Steel, aluminum, and wood handrails
Do you do the preparation of foundations and structures?
We analyze the situation during the first visit and will be able to determine where to build the foundations.
With this information in hand, you will be able to give instructions to your contractor. Once the foundations are completed, we will come and install the fence or glass railing.
Depending on our availability, we can also take on the foundation project. For post fastening methods (concrete embedment, surface anchoring, wood deck anchoring, U-profiles), in Quebec, a foundation depth below the frost line is recommended — generally 4 ft minimum.
Do you repair fences and railings?
Yes. We renovate and modernize your glass fences and railings, replacing panels, fasteners, or improving aesthetics and safety.
If a glass panel has broken, if the hardware has aged, or if you simply want to refresh the look of an existing railing, contact us for an assessment.
What is the delivery time after purchase?
Lead times vary by product:
- Tempered glass railing and fence: order ready in 24 to 48 hours, delivery within 5 days in the region.
- Amara Pergola (stock model): 1 to 5 days.
- Zena Pergola (custom-made): 3 to 6 weeks.
- Orana Pergola (custom-made): 3 to 6 weeks.
- GSQuébec Composite and PVC (current stock via the Granby pick-up center): 3 to 7 business days.
- Custom order Composite and PVC (non-stock colors or sizes): 1 to 3 weeks.
The exact lead time is confirmed upon order.
Do you deliver everywhere in Canada?
Yes. We ship throughout Canada from our St-Alphonse-de-Granby warehouse. Local delivery (Montérégie, Estrie, Montreal, Quebec City, Laval) is by dedicated glass truck.
For other provinces (Ontario, Maritimes, Western Canada), we work with specialized carriers capable of handling fragile and oversized products. Glass transport is fully insured.
May I visit your warehouse in St-Alphonse-de-Granby?
Yes, by appointment. Our showroom in St-Alphonse-de-Granby allows you to see in person:
- Glass thicknesses (10 mm, 12 mm, laminated)
- Finishes of spigots and stainless steel hardware
- Colors and textures of composite and PVC panels
- Assembled pergola sections
This is often the step that clarifies choices before ordering. Contact us to book your visit.
Do you offer a warranty on your products and services?
Warranties vary by product:
- Tempered glass: 10 years against manufacturing defects
- 316 and 2205 stainless steel hardware: 10 to 15 years depending on the product
- Bioclimatic pergola: 10 years on the structure, 5 years on the motors
- EZfence Design Composite: 10 years
- EZfence Natural and Eco Composite: 20 years
- EZfence Tropical and Elite Composite: 25 years
- EZfence Premium PVC: Lifetime
- EZdeck Premium and High-end Decking: Lifetime
- Habitat Verre Installation: Coverage of installation defects according to established conditions
Detailed warranties are provided in writing with each order.
What to do in case of breakage or damage?
Our tempered glass products are ultra-resistant, but in case of breakage, we offer a rapid replacement service.
Inspect your order upon receipt, in the presence of the carrier if possible. If you notice any breakage or defect, take photos immediately and contact us within 48 hours for an assessment. As glass is fragile, shipping is fully insured.
Need more information?
Our team will answer your questions and prepare your free quote within 24 to 48 hours.
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