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Increase the Value, Safety and Energy Efficiency of Your Home with New Windows. Here’s How.

Increase the Value, Safety and Energy Efficiency of Your Home with New Windows. Here’s How.

When choosing new windows for your home there are a number of factors to consider. Are you doing a full window replacement or sash-only replacement? Are the windows energy-efficient, and do they meet local building codes? Which window type will increase your home’s curb appeal the most and best suit your personal style?

Read on to learn more about home window replacement and get your DIY window project off on the right foot.

Types of Windows

There are a wide variety of window types to choose from. Here’s some pointers to help you decide which types are best suited to your home.


Single-Hung and Double-Hung Windows

The defining feature of a hung window is that it slides up and down. A single hung window has a lower sash that operates, usually tilting in. A double-hung window is similar, except the top sash also operates and tilts in for better ventilation and easier cleaning. ​

Sliding Windows–Horizontal/Vertical

A horizontal sliding window has one or more sashes that slide horizontally, allowing you to easily open up half of the window for ventilation. Also known as a slider window, it’s a good economical choice for basements, providing egress requirements are met (see “Window Safety & Compliancy” section later in the guide).

Fixed Window/Picture Window

A fixed window refers to an inoperable pane within a sectional window e.g. a three-section window where two panes can move and one pane remains “fixed”. A stand-alone fixed window is usually referred to as a “picture window”. It provides no ventilation so is typically used for decorative purposes, to offer unobstructed views, and to increase natural light. This is particularly useful in hallways and on high walls with cathedral ceilings.

Casement Window/Awning Window

A casement window is hinged on either the left or right side and swings outward, so it doesn’t take up space in the room. It usually operates with a crank. Fully open, it provides 100% ventilation. An awning window also operates with a crank, but it’s hinged at the top and swings outward from the bottom. This design provides full side-to-side ventilation and helps to keep rain out
Tilt and Turn Window

Tilt and Turn windows have special hardware that allows them to tilt inward from the top for draft-free ventilation even during rain. Another version allows a simple turn of the handle to open the window inward just like a door for maximum ventilation and easy cleaning.

Bay Window/Bow Window

Bay and bow windows project out from the house. They consist of three or more units that fit together and feature a small roof section. A bay window has sharper angles than a bow window, which has a gentler arc. A bay window has a centre window that often is fixed. A bow window has multiple units that may be fixed or operational. Often the two end units operate.

Garden Window

A garden window, also known as a greenhouse window, allows you to create a mini greenhouse in your home. It features a centre window sash, two side sashes at angles, and a sloped sash on top. Often used in windows over kitchen sinks, a garden window projects outwards from the wall and can include shelves for plants.

Hopper Window

A hopper widow is a small, hinged window that opens into a room. It’s commonly used in tight spaces and basements and can provide extra light and air ventilation. A hopper window can also be used as an egress window but must meet your local building code requirements.

Window Frame Materials

In addition to the type of window you need, it’s also important to consider the type of frame material.

Vinyl Window Frames

A versatile vinyl window will not rot, chip or peel. Other benefits include:
  • Low maintenance and durable
  • Affordable and energy-efficient
  • Popular for both renovations and new construction to accommodate the specific type of wall construction

Wood Window Frames

A wood window frame provides timeless beauty and warmth. Key benefits include:
  • A natural insulator and resistant to temperature extremes
  • Can be painted or stained to match any décor
  • Durable if properly maintained (but does require more maintenance)

Hybrid Window Frames

Hybrid window frames combine different materials such as aluminum, vinyl and wood to leverage the benefits of each. In particular, an aluminum-clad exterior offers virtually maintenance-free performance. Below are the three most popular types of hybrid window frames:

1. Aluminum cladding over wood frame
2. Aluminum exterior/PVC interior construction
3. PVC exterior/wood interior construction

Aluminum Window Frames

Aluminum is lightweight but very strong, which makes it ideal for use in window frames. Advantages include:
  • Resistant to the elements for long lifespan
  • Require little framework for a less bulky appearance
  • Easy to clean
  • High level of security

Finish the Look

When choosing both the window frame and window sash material you should also consider the finish:
  • Vinyl can have custom colours factory-applied
  • Vinyl paint and laminate offer many colour options, but laminate is more durable than paint
  • Wood frames generally come unfinished but must be painted or stained

Types of Window Glass

In addition to the style of window and frame, the type of window glass is also an important consideration. Insulating Glass: This type of glass has two or more panes with air space between them. These are commonly called thermal panes or insulating glass units (IGUs). The space can also be filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton to further improve insulation and to meet Building Codes.

Low-E Glass: Low-E glass is low-emissivity glass. It has a special coating that reduces the transfer of heat through the glass. It may be tinted to even further reduce heat. In summer it lets in sunlight while blocking out damaging UV rays. In winter it reflects heat back into the room. Low-E coating can be applied to one or more of the IGU (insulating glass unit) surfaces to best suit the needs of your home.

Laminated Glass: This type of glass actually consists of multiple layers of glass bonded together with a middle plastic layer. It looks like a single piece of glass, but the layers help improve insulation. Laminated glass helps eliminate damaging UV rays and provide insulation against noise.

Tempered Glass: Tempered glass is extremely strong and often used for safety. It crumbles rather than shattering into dangerous shards.

Obscure Glass: Often used in bathrooms or other areas requiring privacy, this type of glass allows light to enter but blurs the image for privacy. Obscure glass comes in various textures and patterns to suit your decor.

What to Know When Choosing New Windows

There are other factors to consider when choosing your new windows. Learn the basics and the safety requirements to avoid costly mistakes.

Replacement vs. Retrofitting

Full window replacement is a superior method in terms of improving the energy efficiency of the home versus sash-only replacement. It’s also a good idea:
  • If the existing frame is not structurally sound or rotting
  • If you don’t have an airtight seal
  • If you want to update the style of your home’s exterior
Retrofitting, often referred to as an insert or a window sash-only replacement, involves replacing the window’s existing sash while leaving the window frame intact. While this method is less costly, it’s also less energy efficient. Retrofitting can also be risky if the frame isn’t in good condition, or if you want to save your interior window trim.

Skylight/Roof Window

A skylight is installed in a roof to offer increased light and air ventilation. It can be fixed or operable, and it’s important to ensure any roof window is properly flashed and caulked to avoid leaks.

Understanding Window Efficiency

Window efficiency can reduce energy costs and help to provide a more comfortable home environment. Below are some common terms to understand.

ENERGY STAR: The international symbol for energy efficiency refers to ENERGY STAR-certified products, which are tested to meet strict technical specifications for energy performance. The symbol will help you identify products that are most energy efficient. The label will also indicate the climate zone(s) the product is qualified for.

Air Leakage (AL): This refers to the amount outside air that passes through the window and into the building. The lower the number, the better the window is at keeping air out.

U-Factor: This is a measure of heat loss and refers to the rate of heat transfer from warm to cold areas. The lower the value, the slower the rate of heat transfer.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGCL): This measurement is expressed as a ratio indicating the amount of the sun’s heat that can pass through the window. The higher the number, the greater the solar gain.

Energy Rating (ER): This figure factors together the numbers from the above AL, U-factor and SHGCL ratings. The higher the number, the more energy-efficient the window.

CLIMATE ZONE RATING CHANGE
Canada used to be divided into three ENERGY STAR climate zones. This changed as of January 2020. Now you no longer have to reference a climate zone to determine if your window is ENERGY STAR® certified for your area. There is now one single standard that applies to all of Canada.

It’s important to choose windows that meet local Building Codes and are qualified for the zone you live in.

Weatherstripping is also important to energy efficiency. It comes in a variety of materials and is used to prevent rain and water from entering, to off seal air leaks and to keep out drafts. ​

Window Safety & Compliancy

The National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) requires that, except where a door on the same floor level as the bedroom provides direct access to the exterior of the building, each bedroom must have a properly sized egress window in the event of an emergency. A bedroom egress window:
  • Must provide an unobstructed opening with a minimum area of 0.35 sq. m. (3.77 sq. ft.)
  • Must have a minimum of 380 mm (15 in.) for both the horizontal and vertical dimension/opening
  • Must open from the inside without keys, tools, hardware or special knowledge
  • Cannot be higher than 1.5 m above the floor
Basements must also have an egress window. If a basement bedroom window opens into a window well, the window well must allow at least 550 mm (21.7 in.) in front of the window.

TIP: To ensure the unobstructed opening meets these criteria, you should measure between the sashes, jambs, sills and opening mechanisms.

IMPORTANT! Always check your local building codes in advance to make sure your window meets their requirements.

Installation Tips

It is critical to make sure your windows are installed properly. Most window failures are due to installation errors. It’s important to make sure that new windows are airtight and weathertight and that all safety and compliance requirements are met.

It’s always a good idea to have a professional give you an assessment. Home Hardware provides installation services. With our worry-free Home Installs Service, you get a free estimate, free consultation and free quoting.

Installing new windows offers a variety of benefits, from enhancing your home’s exterior to improving its safety and efficiency. Browse our selection of windows to find what best suits your home and your needs.
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