Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
Why is there such a big price difference between standard and custom window sizes?
The price gap between standard and custom window sizes comes down to manufacturing efficiency. Standard sizes are produc...
Is there a big efficiency gap between argon and air-filled panes?
The efficiency gap between argon and air-filled windows is real, but modest - argon-filled units typically improve therm...
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 o...
Do I legally need security bars on my basement windows in Ottawa?
No, Ontario Building Code does not generally require security bars on basement windows for existing residential homes. S...
Are sliding windows less secure than casement windows for ground floor rooms?
Sliding windows do have some security differences compared to casement windows, but the gap is smaller than most homeown...
I own a rental property - does it make financial sense to upgrade the windows?
Upgrading windows in a rental property can absolutely make financial sense, but the answer depends on a few key factors...
My house has brick exterior - can window installation crack or damage the brick?
Brick exteriors do require extra care during window installation, but an experienced installer can complete the job with...
What window style works best for a stairwell?
Stairwell windows are one of the more interesting design challenges in a home — they need to provide light and visual ap...
What does a window warranty actually cover and what's usually excluded?
Window warranties can be confusing because manufacturers often make them sound comprehensive when they actually have sig...
What actually happens to my old windows after they haul them away?
Great question — most homeowners never think about this, and the answer is more interesting than you'd expect. The shor...
My house has stucco siding - is window installation more complicated because of that?
Yes, window installation in stucco homes is more complex than standard vinyl or wood siding, and it requires extra care...
How much extra will it cost me to add a transom window above my front door?
Adding a transom window above your front door typically costs $800 - $2,500 extra in the Ottawa market, depending on whe...
I'm buying a house - what should I check about the windows before closing?
Buying a house is exciting, and windows are one of the most important things to evaluate before you close — they're expe...
Are there windows that automatically tint darker when the sun hits them?
Yes, these are called electrochromic or photochromic windows, and they absolutely exist — though they're still a relativ...
Are there grants available for accessibility window modifications in Ontario?
Accessibility window modifications can qualify for several grant programs in Ontario, though the specific eligibility de...
Does that self-cleaning glass actually work or is it just marketing?
Self-cleaning glass actually does work, but it's important to understand what it can and can't do — because "self-cleani...
Can I replace the ugly side door in my garage with a nice entry door?
Yes, you can absolutely replace a garage side door with a nicer entry door — it's one of the more straightforward door u...
I'm selling in 3 years - is it worth upgrading windows now or not?
Great question, and the honest answer is: it depends on your current windows and how bad they are. If your windows are...
Is that security film I see at Canadian Tire as good as getting actual security glass?
Security film and actual security glass are quite different products, and for most homeowners the distinction matters a...
Can I install a peephole in a fiberglass entry door?
Yes, you can install a peephole in a fiberglass entry door — it's one of the more DIY-friendly door modifications and do...
Does the spacer bar between the panes actually matter for energy efficiency?
Yes, the spacer bar matters more than most homeowners realize — it's one of the most overlooked components in window ene...
Do I need impact-resistant windows to get a discount on my insurance?
Impact-resistant windows can sometimes qualify you for home insurance discounts, but this depends entirely on your speci...
What happens if the new window doesn't fit the opening exactly?
When a new window doesn't fit the opening exactly, the installer uses a combination of shimming, framing adjustments, an...
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...
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