Window & Door FAQs

Compare the complete product’s U-factor, Energy Rating, air leakage, glazing, frame construction, operation and the installation scope that applies to your home.

The City of Guelph identifies new or enlarged window and door openings as work that can require a permit. Requirements depend on scope; confirm with the municipality for the project address.

Natural Resources Canada states that ENERGY STAR certified windows are approximately 20% more energy-efficient than average windows. Confirm that the exact product and configuration is certified.

Program availability and eligibility can change. Assessment requirements, qualifying products and multiple-upgrade rules may apply, so rely on the current official program terms.

Casements open outward on hinges and can provide broad ventilation. Sliders move horizontally and suit spaces where outward clearance is limited.

Both can be practical. Compare construction, finish, glass, security hardware, maintenance, exposure and the complete installed system.

Repair is often worth investigating when the frame is sound and the issue is isolated to hardware, weatherstripping, a screen or a sealed glass unit. Widespread rot, distortion or recurring water entry can change the scope.

A picture window is fixed and prioritizes an uninterrupted view. A casement opens on side hinges and adds ventilation, but needs exterior clearance and operating space.

Below-grade openings commonly use a well or other drainage arrangement. The wall, grading, well, cover and any bedroom egress requirement should be reviewed together.

Ask whether the quote includes measured units, removal, disposal, screens, installation, insulation, exterior capping, interior trim, repairs, taxes and final adjustment.

Compare U-factor, Energy Rating, air leakage, solar gain, glass weight, frame depth and price for the complete configuration. Pane count alone does not describe performance.

A failed insulated-glass unit may be replaceable when the frame and hardware remain sound. The existing frame, seal design and available replacement unit need to be assessed.

Measure the opening and review floor-to-deck transitions, clearance, screen, lock, sill drainage and whether a sliding or hinged configuration better suits the room.

Gaps at the weatherstripping, threshold, frame, hinges or sweep can contribute. A distorted slab or frame, poor adjustment and surrounding wall conditions can also be involved.

They can. Structural changes, enlarged openings and bedroom egress work may be treated differently from like-for-like replacement. Confirm current municipal requirements for the project address.

Energy Rating is a Canadian window performance measure that combines heat loss, solar heat gain and air leakage factors. Compare the rating with U-factor and the complete product configuration.

Check indoor humidity, use kitchen and bathroom exhaust, keep air circulating across the glass and avoid blocking warm air. Persistent moisture or mould needs a broader moisture review.

No. Programs can change eligibility, assessment and qualifying-product rules. Check the current official program terms and keep required records before relying on an incentive.

The city, room, opening type, approximate dimensions, symptoms such as drafts or sticking, preferred styles and timing provide a useful starting point. Final measurements come later.