Do window prices typically jump up at the start of the year?

Window prices do tend to increase at the start of the year, though the timing and size of increases can vary depending on market conditions, manufacturer pricing cycles, and material costs.

Most window manufacturers release updated pricing in January or February, which is when installers typically see new price lists take effect. These annual adjustments usually reflect increases in raw material costs (vinyl, glass, aluminum), labour, and shipping. In recent years, supply chain pressures have made these increases more noticeable — typically ranging from 3% to 8% annually, though this varies by manufacturer and product line.

The Ottawa market follows the same general pattern. Because the winter months (January through March) are slower for window installations, some contractors and suppliers offer winter pricing incentives to keep business moving during the off-season. This can sometimes offset or delay the impact of manufacturer price increases for homeowners who book early in the year.

If you're planning a window replacement project, locking in a quote before year-end or in early January can sometimes help you secure the previous year's pricing — though this depends entirely on the specific contractor and supplier. It's always worth asking whether a quote is valid through a price change date.

The best approach is to get your quotes now, compare them, and ask each installer how long their pricing is guaranteed. If you're ready to move forward on a window replacement project in Ottawa, feel free to request a free estimate from Ottawa Window Pros — we're happy to walk you through current pricing and any available incentives.