Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
What's the typical deductible for a window damage claim?
That's a question better suited for your home insurance provider rather than a window installer. Deductibles vary signi...
Can my tenant force me to replace drafty windows?
In Ontario, yes — your tenant has legal grounds to demand window repairs or replacement if the drafts are affecting habi...
Can old brick homes handle the weight of triple-pane windows?
Triple-pane windows are heavier than double-pane, but the good news is that most older brick homes in Ottawa are actuall...
What's the best way to insulate under a bay window seat?
Bay window seats are a common source of heat loss in Ottawa homes, and insulating them properly makes a real difference...
How often should I re-caulk around my window exteriors?
Exterior window caulking should be inspected annually and typically needs refreshing every 3-5 years, though Ottawa's ha...
What the heck is solar heat gain coefficient and why should I care?
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is basically how much free heat from the sun your windows let into your house - and i...
I have a big picture window facing the street - how do I make it more secure?
Large picture windows can be secured through several effective methods, from reinforced glass to security film and prope...
Do home inspectors actually test if windows work properly or just look at them?
Home inspectors typically perform basic operational tests on windows, not just visual inspections. Most qualified inspec...
Do installers move my furniture away from the windows?
Most professional window installers will move lightweight furniture and items away from windows as part of their service...
Is the installation warranty separate from the window warranty or the same thing?
Installation warranty and window warranty are typically separate coverages - the window manufacturer covers the product...
Can I just replace the glass part of my window and keep the existing frame?
Yes, you can replace just the glass in many cases, but it's often not the most cost-effective or energy-efficient soluti...
I have a split-level - are there special considerations for windows at different heights?
Yes, split-level homes have unique window considerations due to varying heights, exposure levels, and structural differe...
How complicated is it to cut a new window opening into a brick wall?
Cutting a new window opening into a brick wall is a complex structural project that requires professional expertise and...
My powder room is tiny - what window option won't take up too much space?
Casement windows or awning windows are your best bet for tiny powder rooms - they open outward so they don't eat up any...
My landlord won't replace the drafty windows - what are my rights as a tenant in Ottawa?
As a tenant in Ontario, you have specific rights regarding window conditions, but the situation depends on whether the w...
How do they make sure water won't leak in around the new windows?
Proper water sealing around new windows involves multiple layers of protection, starting with flashing and weatherstripp...
What's the widest patio door I can get without custom ordering?
Standard patio doors are typically available up to 12 feet wide (144 inches) without requiring custom manufacturing. Mos...
How thick should a front door be for good insulation?
For good insulation in Ottawa's climate, your front door should be at least 1.75 inches (44mm) thick, with premium doors...
Should I replace my storm windows or upgrade to double-pane?
If you have single-pane windows with storm windows, upgrading to quality double or triple-pane windows will provide sign...
What happens to my warranty if the window company goes bankrupt?
If your window company goes bankrupt, your warranty protection depends on the type of warranty and the company's structu...
Can a ceiling fan help reduce window condensation in winter?
Yes, a ceiling fan can help reduce window condensation in winter by improving air circulation and preventing humid air f...
How do I find replacement windows that match my 1920s house character?
Finding replacement windows that preserve your 1920s home's character requires balancing historical authenticity with mo...
Do insulated steel doors dent easily from everyday use?
Modern insulated steel doors are quite durable and resist denting from normal everyday use, but they're not completely d...
Is it worth replacing windows that still open and close fine?
Yes, it can absolutely be worth replacing windows that still function mechanically, especially in Ottawa's climate where...
How wide can a sliding patio door be before I need to reinforce the wall?
Most sliding patio doors up to 12 feet wide can be installed in standard wall framing, but anything over 8-10 feet typic...
Are white vinyl windows really cheaper than coloured ones?
Yes, white vinyl windows are typically $50-150 cheaper per window than colored options, making them the most budget-frie...
My Barrhaven home is only 10 years old but the windows are failing - is this normal?
Unfortunately, yes - window failures in 10-year-old homes are more common than they should be, especially in Ottawa's ha...
How do I check if a window installer in Ontario actually has proper insurance?
In Ontario, you should verify both WSIB coverage and general liability insurance before hiring any window installer. Thi...
What window standards are landlords required to meet in Ontario?
Landlords in Ontario must ensure windows meet basic safety and habitability standards under the Residential Tenancies Ac...
Do I have to tell buyers about the foggy windows in my house?
Yes, you're legally required to disclose known defects like foggy windows when selling your home in Ontario. This falls...
Do window upgrades increase property value more for rentals than owner-occupied homes?
Window upgrades typically provide greater financial returns for owner-occupied homes than rental properties, though both...
Everyone in Westboro seems to have black window frames - is that actually a good choice?
Black window frames are extremely popular in Westboro and across Ottawa right now, and there are both practical and aest...
Should I replace windows before we move in or after we're living there?
Replace windows before moving in if possible - it's significantly easier, cleaner, and less disruptive when the house is...
Can I pressure wash my vinyl windows or will it damage them?
Yes, you can pressure wash vinyl windows, but you need to use the right technique and settings to avoid damage. Vinyl wi...
Is there a minimum order size to get good pricing on windows?
Most window companies, including Ottawa Window Pros, offer competitive pricing starting with single window replacements,...
My windows get filthy so fast on the outside - is there something wrong with them?
Dirty windows are usually an environmental issue rather than a window problem. Most window dirt comes from external fact...
I'm setting up a home office - what window style gives me the best light without glare?
Casement windows or double-hung windows with quality Low-E coatings will give you excellent natural light while minimizi...
What kind of hoops do I have to jump through for window replacement in New Edinburgh?
Most window replacements in New Edinburgh don't require permits or special approvals - you're typically just swapping ex...
Why is there condensation on the outside of my windows in the morning?
Exterior window condensation in the morning is actually a good sign - it means your windows are energy efficient and pro...
Should I get new screens when I replace the windows or reuse the old ones?
When replacing windows, you should get new screens rather than reusing old ones. Old screens rarely fit properly with ne...
Will a dark-colored front door fade in Ottawa's sun?
Yes, dark-colored front doors can fade in Ottawa's sun, especially on south-facing exposures that receive direct sunligh...
Do window companies offer free in-home consultations?
Yes, most reputable window companies in Ottawa offer free in-home consultations as a standard service to help homeowners...
Does replacing a window the same size need a permit in Ottawa?
No, replacing a window with the same size window in an existing opening typically does not require a building permit in...
Are there insurance requirements for basement bedroom egress windows?
Yes, basement bedroom egress windows must meet specific safety requirements that can affect your home insurance coverage...
We're having a baby - are there special window safety requirements for a nursery?
Yes, there are important window safety requirements and considerations for nurseries to protect your new baby as they gr...
Is there glass that blocks noise but not light?
Yes, there are several types of glass specifically designed to block noise while maintaining excellent light transmissio...
There's water getting in around my window frame when it rains - what's going on?
Water infiltration around window frames is typically caused by failed weatherstripping, damaged caulking, or improper in...
What's involved in converting a window into a door for a deck?
Converting a window to a door involves structural modifications that require permits and professional installation. This...
Do appraisers take window quality into account when valuing a house?
Yes, appraisers do consider window quality when valuing a house, though it's typically not a major value driver unless t...
Which window frame material is actually the most environmentally friendly?
Fiberglass window frames are generally considered the most environmentally friendly option, followed closely by wood fra...
Have Your Own Question?
Get free, instant answers from Window IQ. No signup required!
Ask Free Question