Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Ventsam manufacture its doors and windows in wood?

A: Yes, in the last 40 years, Ventsam manufactures wood doors, windows, and other specialty wood products in Southern California. Our production staff makes every effort to build high-quality products and ship your orders on time and complete.

Q: How do I get pricing?

A: You can get pricing directly from us. All you have to do is contact us with your design, size, and other specifications directly, or you can submit a Quote Request on any specific windows and doors through our online website. 

Q: Can I expedite an order?

A: Upon receipt of an order, please request the desired delivery date, and we will always be glad to accommodate our customers. Ventsam manufactures most windows and doors in a 3- 4 weeks lead-time (some custom doors can take longer). An extra charge may be applied to a rush order.

Q: Are Ventsam windows and doors made of solid wood?

A: Ventsam windows and doors are all solid wood and sold pre-paint grade. We do offer a variety of finishes upon request.

 Q: Are Ventsam and doors ENERGY STAR rated?

A: All Ventsam windows doors carry u-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) ratings to meet or exceed energy efficient ratings when provided with insulated glass. 

Q: Can I get my door pre-hung?

A: Yes.

Q: If the door does not fit, can I cut down my door, and how much can I take off?

A: you can cut a maximum of ½" from the top and 1½" from the bottom. Any more, and you run the risk of impacting the structural integrity of the door. We do not suggest trimming the door in width other than for a bevel or minor prep work.

What kind of finishing should I use to protect my front door?

A: Every location is different (different weather, different exposure for a particular door), and every door has different specifications (design, wood species, potential upgrades). Check with a local finishing expert as they would know the best products to use for the region.

Q: What species is the most durable/weather resistant?

A: In general, wood is an excellent insulator and can withstand just about any weather as long as it has protection. Protection in the form of a great finish and a building overhang should help with weather resistance. For harsh exposures, Ventsam offers a variety of products that can withstand more than your typical door. Doors made from wood species that have been evaluated that are incredibly weather-resistant are Douglas fir, Sapele Mahogany, and Nootka Cypress.

Q: Are Ventsam doors surface is a veneer?

A: although Ventsam only manufactures solid doors, we carry and are a distributor of veneered doors.

Q: What is the difference between SDL and TDL?

A: Ventsam doors and windows are constructed only with True Divided Lites (TDL). Both acronyms (SDL=Simulated Divided Lite, TDL=True Divided Lite) refer to the construction method used for a door that has the look of multiple panes of glass separated by bars. In TDL construction, the door includes multiple glass units held in place and separated by bars. In SDL construction, the door consists of a single glass unit, and bars are affixed to the face of the glass.

Q: What is the warranty on a Ventsam door?

A: Doors and windows that are manufactured through Ventsam have a five-year warranty. Please review our warranty, and we'll be available to assist you with any request. 

Q: Does Ventsam offer PDF and/or CAD files?

A: .dwg, .PDF files for most doors are available here.

 Q: Where can I find hardware?

A: Ventsam does supply hardware for its windows and doors. Custom hardware is available from a wide selection.  

Q: Where can I find what sizes a specific door is available in?

A: Ventsam can build any door of any size. Indicate the specific size needed when placing your order.

Q: What does "VG" stand for in a VG flat panel?

A: Vertical grain.

Q: What are SG and IG?

A: These acronyms describe glass in a door. IG (insulated glazing, also known as double-paned glass) describes a glass unit made up of more than one piece of glass around central airspace. This method of construction has proven to provide superior energy-efficient characteristics vs. a single piece of glass. SG (single-glazed, also known as single-paned glass) indicates a single piece of glass for that unit, a common request for interior doors.

Q: How to remove excess putty (glazing compound)?

A: Exterior wood windows and doors that have glass also have glazing compounds. That glazing compound waterproofs the glass to the wood parts. Adequately done, we expect to see some excess glazing compound squeeze out around these edges. You have to remove that before you can put the finish on the door, or you're going to get a poor finish.

Two mistakes that people use are trying to use a razor knife and a razor scraper. The proper tool to use is an awl. An awl is round, and it's safe to use on a door. It also creates a good transition for the glazing compound. And to remove this, all you need to do is press the awl firmly in against the glass itself and run right around the edge of the glazing bead or the sticking. It can be frustrating trying to use any other tool because it'll take a long time, and you'll likely damage the door – you might even hurt yourself. Video