Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
There are hard water stains all over my windows from the sprinklers - how do I get rid of them?
Hard water stains from sprinklers can be removed with the right cleaning approach, though prevention is key to avoiding...
Are there good end-of-year clearance deals on windows worth waiting for?
Yes, there are often good end-of-year clearance deals on windows, but timing your purchase requires balancing savings ag...
Does laminated glass actually stop someone from breaking in or just slow them down?
Laminated glass significantly slows down break-in attempts but won't completely stop a determined intruder. It's designe...
How do I keep my patio door track from freezing shut?
Frozen patio door tracks are a common Ottawa winter problem that can usually be prevented with proper maintenance and a...
What happens if a cold snap hits right during my scheduled window installation?
Cold weather can definitely impact window installation, but experienced installers have strategies to work safely in Ott...
What are the red flags in a window quote that should make me walk away?
Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true or use high-pressure tactics - legitimate window companies provide detai...
How much does a single casement window cost installed in Ottawa?
A single casement window installed in Ottawa typically costs between $500-$1,200, depending on the size, frame material,...
What certifications should I look for when hiring a window installer?
When hiring a window installer in Ottawa, you should verify several key certifications and credentials to ensure quality...
What window features hold up best with tenants who might not maintain them?
Vinyl windows with basic hardware and minimal moving parts hold up best with tenants who may not maintain them properly....
There's white powdery stuff appearing on my vinyl window frames - what is that?
The white powdery substance on your vinyl window frames is most likely efflorescence - mineral deposits that appear when...
Should I negotiate window prices or is the quote final?
Most window companies expect some negotiation, and there's often room for adjustment, especially on larger projects. How...
Can I replace one window at a time over a few years?
Yes, you can absolutely replace windows one at a time over several years. This approach is actually quite common and pra...
Are awning windows better than sliders for basements?
Awning windows are generally better than sliders for basement installations due to superior water protection and ventila...
Can I add a screen to my new French patio doors?
Yes, you can definitely add screens to French patio doors. Most French patio door installations include screen options,...
Should I order my windows now in February for spring installation?
Yes, ordering windows in February for spring installation is actually smart timing. You'll avoid the spring rush and ens...
Can I get electric windows that open with a button for accessibility?
Yes, motorized windows are available and can be an excellent accessibility solution for homeowners with mobility challen...
What's the actual difference between tempered glass and laminated glass for security?
Tempered glass and laminated glass offer completely different types of security protection - tempered glass is designed...
How low does a door threshold need to be for wheelchair access?
Door thresholds for wheelchair accessibility must be no higher than 13mm (1/2 inch) under the Ontario Building Code, wit...
How do I handle window installation with tenants currently living in the unit?
Window installation in occupied rental units requires careful coordination between landlords, tenants, and contractors t...
How do the installers make sure they don't wreck my hardwood floors?
Professional window installers use several protective measures to safeguard your hardwood floors during installation. Th...
What's the difference between a hopper and an awning window?
Hopper and awning windows are both hinged windows, but they open in opposite directions and serve different purposes in...
Can I get a casement window that opens outward and inward?
No, a single casement window cannot open both outward and inward - the hinges and hardware are designed to operate in on...
Do I need to notify my insurance company that I replaced my windows?
Most homeowners don't need to notify their insurance company for standard window replacements, but it's worth checking y...
Greener homes grant windows?
The Canada Greener Homes Grant provides up to $5,000 in rebates for qualifying window and door replacements, making ener...
Is there a window that's both triple-pane for energy and also hard to break into?
Yes, you can get triple-pane windows with enhanced security features that provide both excellent energy efficiency and b...
Can I combine federal and provincial window rebates together?
Yes, you can often combine federal and provincial rebates for window replacements, but the specific programs and eligibi...
Can I lock and unlock my window locks from my phone?
Most traditional window locks cannot be controlled from your phone, as they're mechanical hardware designed for manual o...
What exactly is a multi-slide door and are they practical for Ottawa winters?
Multi-slide doors are large patio door systems with multiple panels that slide horizontally to create expansive openings...
Should the windows in my garage door match the rest of my house windows?
Matching your garage door windows to your house windows isn't required, but it creates better visual harmony and can boo...
What window features do Ottawa home buyers actually care about?
Ottawa home buyers prioritize energy efficiency above all else, with triple-pane windows and low heating bills being maj...
What's the typical wait time for windows during the busy spring season?
Spring is definitely the busiest season for window installation in Ottawa, with typical wait times ranging from 4-8 week...
Does my home insurance cover window damage from the big storm we just had?
Most home insurance policies in Ontario do cover window damage from storms, but coverage depends on the specific cause a...
Are there windows that can open and close by themselves with a motor?
Yes, motorized windows are available and becoming increasingly popular for both accessibility and convenience reasons. T...
Should I remove my interior window trim before the crew arrives?
No, you don't need to remove interior trim before the installation crew arrives. Professional window installers typicall...
My window seals failed - will my home insurance cover that?
Most standard home insurance policies don't cover failed window seals, as this is typically considered normal wear and t...
Do I need tempered glass for the window next to my bathtub or is that just a recommendation?
Yes, tempered glass is required by the Ontario Building Code for windows within 600mm (about 2 feet) of a bathtub or sho...
Do blackout curtains help with window energy efficiency?
Blackout curtains provide moderate energy efficiency benefits, particularly for heat retention in winter and heat reject...
Are multi-panel sliding doors practical for Ottawa winters?
Multi-panel sliding doors can be practical for Ottawa winters, but they require careful selection and proper installatio...
Do I need new headers if I'm replacing old wooden windows?
Most window replacements don't require new headers if you're replacing windows in existing openings with similar-sized u...
My dad uses a walker - what door style is easiest for him to get through?
A hinged entry door with a low or no threshold is the easiest option for someone using a walker. Standard hinged doors p...
How many quotes should I actually get before making a decision?
Getting 3-4 quotes is the sweet spot for most window and door projects. This gives you enough comparison data to make an...
Are those pocket sliding patio doors any good for our climate?
Pocket sliding patio doors can work in Ottawa's climate, but they require careful consideration of insulation and proper...
Is it better to buy direct from a manufacturer or go through a dealer?
For most homeowners, working with a local dealer like Ottawa Window Pros is typically the better choice than buying dire...
Are there window systems designed to work with Google Home or Alexa?
Yes, there are smart window systems that integrate with Google Home and Alexa, though these are primarily motorized wind...
I see rainbow colors in my window glass - is that a problem or normal?
Rainbow colors or iridescent effects in window glass are typically normal and not a cause for concern. This optical phen...
How do I read all those numbers on the energy label sticker on new windows?
The energy label sticker contains key performance ratings that help you compare window efficiency and understand how the...
My neighbour got a quote for $15,000 less than mine - is something wrong with my quote?
A $15,000 difference in window quotes is significant and worth investigating. Several factors could explain this gap, an...
Do bay windows need extra structural support underneath?
Yes, bay windows typically require additional structural support underneath because they project outward from the buildi...
I have a weird octagon-shaped window - what are my replacement options?
Octagon windows can definitely be replaced, though they require custom manufacturing since they're specialty shapes rath...
How do I fix a torn window screen without replacing it?
Small tears in window screens can often be repaired at home using simple materials and techniques, saving you the cost o...
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