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Things to Consider When Purchasing New Windows

Every homeowner understands the significance of correct window installation. Poorly installed windows can damage your property, window seals, or end up leading to drafts and condensation, and even window glass shattering.

You must consider many vital aspects when purchasing new windows for your house. That is why we have reached out to many Canadian window replacement experts, so they elaborate on key things homeowners might not have taken into account for proper window installation.

1. The energy efficiency of your new windows

Windows will only seal your space well if they can prevent warm and cold air from fleeing or entering via openings in it, such as gaps where the window units meet the walls of a building.

When it comes to your home’s energy bills, heating and cooling account for 50-70% of the total cost, so it is vital to consider the correct type of insulation your windows have that would best suit your needs.

Energy-efficient units typically have several panes separated by a tiny pocket of air that is safer for animals and kids who might try to get them out. Air doesn’t transfer heat nearly as well as glazing, so the tiny pockets will usually work better than one huge window pane would.

Moreover, if you think you might need even more energy conservation for your windows but do not want to break the bank, it would be prudent to consider some popular window treatments such as window tinting or window film. They can reduce heat transfer, and the price for such treatments is usually less than installing triple glazing, for example.

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2. Choose the correct window style to match your house exterior

The key thing here is not the operation or aesthetics. Besides providing your space with more comfort by giving it a personal touch, lighting makes a tremendous difference in how warm or cold your interior feels. Windows with huge glass areas will provide more sunlight, while smaller units may fail to bring much daylight to your space, thus affecting your mood and even health. So considering the window style that works best for your home is essential. Some additional tips to consider:

  • Window styles such as picture, bay or bow windows usually feature a huge glass area and are placed in living rooms to provide optimal daylight and clear views outside.
  • Having curtains or window blinds can also bring a great opportunity to make multiple layers of window treatments to obtain proper insulation and additional energy efficiency. Moreover, you get the ultimate privacy and light control over your space with correct blinds or shutters.
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3. Will windows break the bank?

Besides correct window style, energy efficiency and installation, homeowners should also consider their budget for new windows because the price varies significantly and depends on multiple factors:

  • Window materials
  • Window size
  • Number of units
  • Complexity of installation
  • The necessity to change to the rough opening
  • Room within your house
  • Type of glazing

And while it is impossible to provide a precise quote, the table below represents the approximate price ranges for popular standard window styles per unit.

Location Casement window Awning window Sliding window Single-Hung window Picture window
Basement $535 – $1,022 $471 – $1114 $394 – $1057 n\a $315 – $1518
Bathroom $446 – $1,032 $432 – $943 $394 – $1033 $95 – $1500 $388 – $1242
Bedroom $444 – $1193 $893 – $909 $437 – $1521 $587 – $2115 $226 – $2324
Bonus room $676 – $1134 $494 – $944 $820 – $1248 $634 – $1374 $420 – $2305
Dining room $550 – $1348 $843 – $1429 $669 – $1957 $529 – $1466 $316 – $2072
Family room $605 – $1999 $621 – $1157 $490 – $1131 $569 – $1155 $354 – $2661
Foyer $858 – $1999 n\a $465 – $778 $500 – $854 $338 – $1552
Front $583 – $1014 $483 – $1414 $785 – $968 $510 – $925 $359 – $2933
Garage n\a $703 – $902 $391 – $1085 $588 – $732 $334 – $1536
Kitchen $329 – $1356 $419 – $1471 $394 – $1595 $445 – $1595 $202 – $2179
Living room $484 – $1614 $485 – $1384 $433 – $2327 $429 – $1614 $226 – $2898
Master bedroom $545 – $1304 $588 – $1120 $452 – $1810 n\a $335 – $2370
Nook $549 – $1149 $734 – $920 $658 – $1142 $473 – $1186 $337 – $2440

4. Maintenance and cleaning

The last but not the least factor to take into account when purchasing new windows is how much maintenance will be needed after the installation. In addition, homeowners should consider the types of window treatments to utilize that won’t obstruct the window’s visibility too much.

  • If you intend to install shutters or blinds, be sure to go with the ones that have a cordless lift. In this way, it won’t interfere with window cleaning;
  • Moreover, strive to purchase window treatments that add to windows’ energy efficiency and your interior;

 

Final Thoughts

Picking, buying and installing new windows is challenging and requires a complex approach. There are so many popular options to choose from, and unfortunately, this is not a one-size-fits-all decision when picking what works best for your house.

But we hope that this post elaborates on some things so you can take them into account before considering your window replacement project and signing a contract with your local installer. Good luck!

 

Gail P
I am a beachy type of person, living in Newport Beach, and oftentimes I’ll go for a swim with my daughter. When I’m bored, I’ll help make package boxes for my little girl’s sticker company on Etsy.