Canada is renowned for its snow-covered landscapes and pristine environment. However, with the intense cold of winter, trying to stay warm and cozy can feel like a full-time job.

Investing in good-quality windows is essential to creating a warm and comfortable winter home. It will save you money on heating bills as they will stop the cold air from entering your house. Furthermore, they are an essential factor in weatherproofing your home.

If you’re in Canada, finding the right windows to endure the winter can be challenging. However, this article can provide valuable insights on what features to look for and if it’s time to replace your old ones. Read on to learn how to make a wise decision when selecting windows for the winter!

Importance of Having the Right Windows for Canadian Cold Climate

Choosing the right windows for your home is essential to enjoying comfortable and consistent indoor temperatures, no matter what the weather may be outside. Additionally, you can save a lot of money on energy bills by limiting your use of heating and cooling systems in the home.

Inefficient windowpanes can be costly since they will drive up energy costs every month. You can attribute a large percentage of your home’s heat loss to faulty windows, so investing in winter-grade windows could save up to a quarter of your energy costs!

Best Features for Windows in a Cold Climate

When selecting windows for colder regions, picking ones with wood, vinyl, fiberglass, or composite frames is essential. Vinyl cladding over wood is a great way to keep heat in and protect the wood. Both vinyl and fiberglass frames are excellent options, although fiberglass can be more pricey than the other two materials.

For optimal performance in cold climates, avoid using aluminum window frames. Aluminum has poor thermal insulation properties and is not the best choice for these environments. Consider other materials to ensure your windows provide adequate insulation and keep the heat in.

Proper window installation is vital for a safe and comfortable home. For the best results, it is recommended to have experienced professionals handle the installation process, including sealing and caulking the surrounding area. This ensures that the job is done each time correctly.

Proper Glass & Multiple Panes

High-quality glass panes help keep your home warm by preventing heat from escaping. To ensure you get the best quality when selecting glass for your windows, there are a few factors to take into account. These include:

• The number of panes: Double-paned windows offer an extra layer of insulation, which helps reduce energy loss and lower home energy bills. Upgrade your windows wisely for better energy efficiency and long-term cost savings. Factors such as the number of glass layers can affect the window’s energy efficiency.
  • Single-pane — Single-pane windows are found in older homes, but their lack of energy efficiency has caused them to become less popular.
  • Double-pane — Dual-pane glass windows provide extra insulation, saving energy costs. The panes are typically filled with air or gas to maximize efficiency.
• Gas fills: Krypton, argon, and xenon gasses are inserted between window panes to improve insulation. These noble gases are more effective at reducing heat transfer than air.
• Low-E (emissivity) glass: Low-E coatings are an invaluable addition to windows, protecting from the sun without blocking natural light. They are also undetectable, meaning no loss of brightness from the windows.

Energy-Efficient Frames

Investing in top-notch framing can help maintain your home’s temperature and conserve energy. Air won’t be able to escape, so you don’t have to raise the thermostat consistently to make up for lost heating.

When it comes to window frames, some of the most popular materials used are:

Vinyl PVC Window Frames: Vinyl window frames are a great choice due to their affordability, insulation efficiency, and ability to be welded for air- and water-tight seals. Synthetic materials need more durability and may not be suitable for extreme temperature changes, making them a poor choice for Canada’s climate.

Aluminum Window Frames: Aluminum window frames are solid, but they are thin and have a high conductivity for heat transfer.

Hybrid Frames: By combining the benefits of vinyl and aluminum frames, it is possible to create a high-quality option that minimizes the drawbacks of both materials.

This window frame offers:

• A robust frame constructed from anodized aluminum and galvanized steel provides unparalleled strength and durability.
• An exterior made from a patented U-PVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) material, formulated to be superior in quality.
• Galvanized steel and aluminum are renowned for their exceptional durability, strength, and reliability.
• Staying in optimal condition without expanding or contracting.
• Long-lasting

Quality Sealing

Weather changes can cause damage to window seals, leading to insulation problems that must be fixed quickly or risk significant issues.

Edge spacers are essential in window frames, separating glass panes and providing insulation while withstanding thermal pressure from weather changes.

Flexible spacer materials are good at counteracting any gas leakage or window seal failure due to their flexibility. Besides, they also protect against temperature cycling stress while giving the windows good structural stability.

Signs You Need New Windows This Winter

If you’re considering replacing your windows this winter, here are some signs to watch out for:

Condensation Inside the Window Panes

It’s common to find condensation on either side of your windows, so there is no need to be alarmed. But if there’s moisture between the window panes, it could indicate a problem that requires some attention.

Window Operation is Difficult

It’s essential to make sure your windows function properly. Test your cranks, latches, and handles to ensure they are easy to open and close without strain. Otherwise, the windows will not be sealed adequately for winter and will not keep the heat inside your house.

Decaying Frames

As the weather changes, the condition of your window frames changes, too; it is crucial to keep an eye on them and check for warping or deterioration. Pay special attention to the corners and joints; these areas will likely suffer from wear and tear.

Drafts

Warmer and colder air seeping out of your house due to drafty windows is an issue that must be addressed.

Poorly insulated windows can be a considerable nuisance and should be replaced. Installing poorly insulated windows can make your home uncomfortable during different seasons and pump up your utility bills.

Such problems can be caused due to improper installation, poor caulking, seal failure, or the age of the windows.

Increased Energy Bills

Drafty windows can cause your heating system to work double-time, leading to an unwelcome spike in energy costs.

This could be a sign that it’s time to consider window replacements. Your energy bills will be sky-high in winter and summer as your furnace or air conditioner runs nonstop, trying to maintain a pleasant living environment. Invest wisely in new windows to reduce your energy bill significantly.

Choosing The Right Windows For Your Home

At Energy Kingston Exteriors, we strive to make your home more energy efficient and climate-friendly. Our experienced window installation professionals have successfully assisted hundreds of homeowners in upgrading their windows to achieve this benefit. Contact us to see how we can help or to receive a quote.