FAQ

Everyday Designer 2 for 1

Can I share my free second complete pair with someone else?

Absolutely. The prescription in the second pair does not need to be the same as in the first. There are no restrictions on who you can share your second complete pair of glasses with - family or friends - you decide and because you’ve bought two pairs of glasses, you can apply the purchase towards two insurance benefits.

Any there restrictions on your 2 for 1 offer?

Although we try to keep our offers as simple as possible, there are some restrictions. We made the decision to sell the best frame product available like Tiffany, Dior, Prada, Gucci, Boss, Armani, Maui Jim and Oakley. Along with this decision, is the fact that these brands have licensing restrictions which prohibit us from giving them away for free as a second pair or discounting their product on an ongoing basis. They can be your first pair, but in order to also be your second pair, we must charge our customer to cover the costs. They are then greatly discounted as a second pair, but not free. 

On the lens side, your second pair of lenses are always free, regardless of whether the prescription is the same, or the required lens is single vision, progressive or even high index. As long as we can make your lens, it will be included in our Everyday Designer 2 for 1 offer.

Products

Are sunglasses eligible for a discount?

It depends on the brand of frame selected. Due to licensing restrictions with some of our Prestige brands, we are unable to offer a discount on their product. For additional information, please contact our store directly.

Do you offer safety glasses?

Yes, we do. We carry a large variety of Prescription and non-Prescription Safety Glasses. Our Safety Eyewear line-up is extensive; with something to provide the best possible fit for 98% of faces and prescriptions. We specialize in Sealed, Close Fitting and “Goggle” Safety Eyewear. Visit our FO Safety page for details.

Insurance & Warranty

Do you accept vision insurance?

We accept most major vision care plans. We also offer direct billing with a variety of insurance companies in each province. Please visit our Insurance and Direct Billing page for more information.

Do you offer warranty?

Lenses are protected against scratches and are warrantied for a period of one or two years, dependent upon the type of Scratch-Resistant coating purchased. Frames are warrantied against manufacturer’s defect for a period of one or two years, dependent upon the frame purchased.

Where can I get my glasses repaired?

You can get your glasses repaired at any location. We are happy to offer minor repairs and replacement of screws or nose pads at no cost. We encourage you to visit the location nearest you so our skilled eyewear professionals can assess if your glasses can be repaired. Visit the See Our Stores page to find the location nearest you.

Eye Exams

Do you offer in-store eye exams?

Yes! Most of our locations offer eye exams from our independent on-site optometrists. See our Book an Eye Exam page to request an appointment.

How do I get a copy of my prescription?

Simply contact your optometrist directly to request a copy of your prescription. Your prescription is yours to keep; it is your right to receive a copy at the conclusion of your eye exam. If you prefer, we would be happy to contact your optometrist on your behalf to get your prescription!

How often do I need an eye exam?

For anyone over the age of 18, eye exams are usually required every two years, but this will depend on your eye health. For adults with existing eye conditions, more frequent eye exams may be recommended. Children’s eye exams are recommended annually. Consult with your optometrist about your particular situation. 

What is the difference between an optician and an optometrist?

An Optometrist, or Doctor of Optometry, is commonly known as an eye doctor who conducts eye examinations. They are an expert on the health of your eye. An Optician is a licensed professional trained to help you see better – whether you’re near or far-sighted, or have low vision due to more complex eye health issues. They are the expert on choosing the right eyewear for your face shape and style preferences.

Lenses & Coatings

What is a digital lens and why do so many retailers not sell them?

Simply put, a digital lens (or FreeForm™) has more forgiving prescriptive corridors so your field of vision is greatly expanded. With a digital lens your Rx is surfaced on the inside of the lens rather than the outside as it had always been done, that gain in proximity to your eyes greatly enhances visual acuity and mitigates peripheral distortion. It is a much superior lens than a non-digital lens. In our opinion, it represents the first significant technology change in the optical industry in 50 years. To not sell it, as a retailer, is a decision to ignore technology and ignore what is best for your customers. The equipment necessary to manufacture it is millions of dollars, and for the production to be cost effective, a retailer probably needs to be able to run hundreds of thousands of lenses through their system annually, so the more likely answer as to why a store does not sell digital lenses? Because they can’t.

What is anti-reflective or AR coating?

Anti-reflective, or AR, is a durable coating that is applied to the lenses to eliminate reflections off the lens surface. AR coating allows more light to pass through the lens and makes your lens look invisible.

What are the Transitions or photo-chromatic lenses?

Photochromic lenses are lenses that darken automatically when exposed to ultra-violet sunlight (UV). Because UV is the activator for photochromic lenses, most do not work well while in a car. Transitions is a brand name of a specific type of photochromatic lens that we offer our customers.

What is a progressive lens?

A progressive lens, also known as a no line bifocal, provides distance, near and intermediate vision. This gives you much more natural vision.

Why is UV (ultra-violet) protection important?

Ultraviolet radiation is very harmful to our eyes. Even though we cannot see it around us it is there, a good pair of sunglasses can protect our eyes from damage. UVA does the "Aging" damage; UVB does the "Burning" damage. The UV rating should be marked on your glasses in order for you to tell how protective they are. Sunglasses with a rating of UV400 are the best and they have been tested to block out 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. Even with sunglasses on you should never look directly into the sun.

What is a bifocal lens?

A bifocal lens provides two focal points, one for near and one for distance. These may have a distinct line for showing the location of the bifocal.

What is the best way to clean and care for my glasses?

Improper care is the leading cause of damage to anti-reflective lenses and other lens coatings, and almost always shortens the life of the product. Clean your glasses frequently to ensure that perspiration, dirt and dust don’t remain on the lenses, as both can damage lens coatings. Keep your glasses on your face, or in the case, but not on your head. Even a scratch-resistant coating can't completely protect your lenses, so always keep your glasses in their case when you are not wearing them. Clean them with a microfiber cloth made especially for eyeglasses and the cleaning solution your Optician recommends. When the cloth is not in use, keep it safe from dust and other particles that may transfer to and damage your lenses. Pre-moistened towelettes made specifically for eyeglass lenses are also an excellent choice, particularly for traveling or the office.

Contact Lenses

What are the common types of contact lenses?

There are two general types of lenses: soft and rigid gas permeable. Based on your vision health and lifestyle needs, your Eyewear Professional will recommend the contact lenses that are most appropriate for you. Soft contact lenses are comfortable and made of flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. Users get accustomed to wearing them within several days. Most soft-contact wearers are prescribed some type of frequent replacement schedule. An example of this is a schedule that calls for the lenses to be replaced with new ones after two weeks of use with lenses removed nightly for cleaning. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses are durable, resistant to deposit buildup, and generally allow for clear, crisp vision. They last longer than soft contacts, and also are easier to handle and less likely to tear. However, they may take longer to get used to. Other common types of lenses: Extended Wear Contacts are good for overnight or continuous wear ranging from one to six nights, or up to 30 days. It's important for your eyes to go without lenses for at least one night following each scheduled removal. Disposable (Replacement Schedule) Contacts. Some soft contacts referred to as "disposable" by sellers are actually worn on a frequent replacement schedule-for two weeks, for example-that requires them to be disinfected between uses. Based on your vision health and lifestyle needs, your optometrist can recommend the contact lenses that are most appropriate for you.

What is the process for a contact lens exam and fitting?

During a contact lens fitting, the curve and diameter of your eyes are measured in order to ensure you receive lenses that fit accurately and work well for your vision correction needs and lifestyle. If you have not previously worn contact lens, training will be provided to show you have to put your lenses in, take them out, and properly store and care for them.

Do I need a prescription for coloured or theatrical contact lenses?

A valid contact lens prescription is required in order to purchase any type of contact lenses, even if you do not need them for vision correction. A contact lens fitting will measure the curve and diameter of your eye, and help ensure the health of your eyes. If a lens is not properly fitted, it can shift, causing irritation, scratching, or other problems.

Can I order contact lenses online?

Yes. As a Factory Optical and Optiks International customer, we make it easy to re-order your Contact Lenses online. Please visit our Re-Order Your Contacts page to complete your order.