Question 1

My Barrhaven home is only 10 years old but the windows are failing - is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, yes - window failures in 10-year-old homes are more common than they should be, especially in Ottawa's harsh climate. Many builders use minimum-grade windows to keep costs down, and these often start showing problems within 5-15 years.

The most common failures you're likely seeing include seal failures in double-pane glass (causing fogging between panes), hardware problems like handles breaking or windows not staying open, weatherstripping deterioration leading to drafts, and fra

Question 2

Everyone in Westboro seems to have black window frames - is that actually a good choice?

Accepted Answer

Black window frames are extremely popular in Westboro and across Ottawa right now, and there are both practical and aesthetic reasons why they've become the go-to choice for many homeowners.

From a design perspective, black frames create a crisp, modern look that works beautifully with both contemporary and traditional Ottawa home styles. They provide strong contrast against lighter siding colors, make windows appear larger, and create clean sight lines that many homeowners love. Black frames a

Question 3

What kind of hoops do I have to jump through for window replacement in New Edinburgh?

Accepted Answer

Most window replacements in New Edinburgh don't require permits or special approvals - you're typically just swapping existing windows for new ones in the same openings.

For standard like-for-like window replacement in New Edinburgh, you won't need building permits from the City of Ottawa. This covers most residential window projects where you're replacing old windows with new ones of similar size in existing openings. The work can proceed once you've selected your contractor and products.

How

Question 4

The windows in my Sandy Hill duplex are 80 years old - can I even get replacements that fit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can absolutely get replacement windows for your 80-year-old Sandy Hill duplex. While the original openings may have non-standard dimensions, modern window manufacturers offer custom sizing to fit virtually any existing opening.

Custom sizing is the standard solution for heritage and older homes in Ottawa's established neighborhoods like Sandy Hill. Window manufacturers measure your existing rough openings and fabricate windows to fit precisely, eliminating the need for major structural

Question 5

We just moved to Stittsville and the builder-grade windows are terrible - what should I know?

Accepted Answer

Builder-grade windows in new Stittsville homes are notorious for being the bare minimum to meet code - you're definitely not alone in wanting to upgrade them for better comfort and energy efficiency.

Most builder-grade windows are basic double-pane units with minimal Low-E coating and standard frames that create cold spots and drafts. The good news is that replacing them is straightforward since you're working with standard sizes and existing rough openings. In Stittsville's climate, upgrading

Question 6

My business is in the ByWard Market - do I need a permit just to replace a window?

Accepted Answer

Most window replacements in existing openings don't require permits in Ottawa, including for businesses in the ByWard Market. You're simply swapping out the old window for a new one in the same rough opening.

However, the ByWard Market Heritage Conservation District adds an extra layer of requirements. Since your business is in this protected heritage area, you'll need to consider both building code requirements and heritage guidelines. The heritage district has specific rules about maintaining

Question 7

Are window sizes in Orleans subdivisions standardized or all different?

Accepted Answer

Window sizes in Orleans subdivisions are generally standardized within each development, but vary significantly between different builders and time periods. Most production builders use standard window sizes to control costs and streamline construction.

Typical standardization patterns you'll find in Orleans include common sizes like 24"x36", 30"x48", 36"x60" for casement windows, and standard slider sizes like 36"x24" and 48"x36". Builders like Minto, Richcraft, and Phoenix typically stick to

Question 8

Does my Kanata townhouse condo board need to approve window replacements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your Kanata townhouse condo board will likely need to approve window replacements, even if you're only replacing windows in the same size opening. Most condominium corporations in Ontario require approval for exterior modifications, and windows are typically considered part of the building's exterior envelope.

Condo approval requirements vary significantly between corporations, but most boards want to ensure consistency in appearance and quality across the development. Some boards have pre

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