It’s time for replacement windows but the choice is more complicated for Ontario homeowners. Ontario’s weather can be unpredictable, with hot, humid summers and wet, frigid winters.
This makes choosing suitable types of windows for your home a crucial decision. This article will look at which window types best suit Ontario’s diverse climate, focusing on energy efficiency and comfort.
What to consider when choosing windows
Energy rating
In Ontario, the energy performance of windows is paramount due to the region’s diverse climate. To ensure the highest quality and performance, we recommend looking for windows with third-party certifications, such as those from the Canadian Standards Association. These standards provide a reliable assessment of a window’s energy efficiency, helping homeowners make informed choices.
A National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label can also be trusted as it also communicates vital energy performance metrics, allowing homeowners to compare different products and select the most efficient windows for their needs.
Glazing options
For homes in Ontario, choosing suitable glazing options for windows is essential, particularly considering the province’s harsh winters. Double or triple-glazed windows are highly recommended as they offer superior insulation, significantly reducing heat loss through the window.
This enhanced insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy costs. Triple-glazed windows, in particular, offer an extra layer of glass and gas fill, providing even better thermal performance and sound insulation, making them an ideal choice for energy-efficient homes.
Fusion welded corners designed for winter resilience
The corners of your windows should undergo fusion welding, a process that enhances their strength and eliminates drafts in cold winters. Fusion welding involves heating the vinyl to a semi-molten state, then securely fusing the jointed pieces together until they solidify into a single unit, ensuring they perform well in winter conditions.
Premium UPVC frames and sashes for winter performance
UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) is the top-tier vinyl for window manufacturing. This material wears much better and is almost maintenance-free. It offers excellent energy efficiency for winter, thanks to its exceptional insulating properties.
Optimized for winter with foam-filled frames
Ensure your window’s frames are foam-filled to enhance your insulation and structural strength. A safe polyurethane foam similar to elements in food colouring is used. This innovation keeps your home warmer during winter and reduces noise intrusion.
Window types good for Ontario
Energy-efficient windows
In Ontario, energy-efficient windows are a must for maintaining a comfortable indoor climate year-round. They come equipped with advanced features like Low-E coatings that reflect unwanted solar heat, and gas fills made of argon, krypton, or xenon, which provide superior insulation. These features significantly enhance a window’s energy efficiency, making them a prime choice for combating Ontario’s cold winters while being mindful of energy costs.
Casement windows
Casement windows are an excellent option for Ontario homes due to their tight seal against harsh weather conditions. They’re user-friendly and provide outstanding ventilation, especially beneficial during Ontario’s warmer months. Their ability to open fully allows for maximum airflow, making them a highly versatile choice that can adapt to Ontario’s diverse weather patterns.
Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows are popular in Ontario, offering easy maintenance and adequate ventilation. These windows are uniquely suitable for both Ontario’s warm summers and cold winters, providing the flexibility needed to adapt to changing weather conditions. Their design allows easy cleaning and airflow control, enhancing comfort and practicality in Ontario homes.
Bay and bow windows
Bay windows and bow windows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also create additional space and offer expansive panoramic views. Their design is particularly beneficial during Ontario’s shorter winter days, allowing for increased natural light penetration. This feature can make indoor spaces feel more open and bright, even during the darker months.
Sliding windows and doors
Sliding windows and doors are a practical and space-efficient solution for modern Ontario homes. They’re easy to operate and famous for their sleek design and functionality. These windows and doors provide good insulation and ample natural light, making them an intelligent choice for Ontario’s varied climate, where balancing warmth and brightness is key.
Centennial for Ontario’s winter
Centennial Windows & Doors offers a variety of styles and options well-suited for Ontario’s diverse climate. From energy-efficient designs to stylish bay and bow windows, they provide solutions catering to aesthetic preferences and practical needs.
Choosing the right window type for Ontario’s winter is about balancing energy efficiency, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you opt for casement windows, double-hung windows, or energy-efficient options, ensure they’re suited to handle the province’s unique climate challenges. Contact Centennial today for a consultation.