9 Key Considerations for Window Replacement in Calgary

Written by Western Windows Created on March 15th, 2024
Categories: Window Replacement

How’s your journey of window shopping for windows going so far?

Once you get window replacements, you’re likely going to be stuck with them for the next 15 to 20 years. That’s why you want to make sure they’re absolutely perfect for your home and suit your preference to a tee.

Knowing about the key considerations for window replacements in Calgary and finding a professional window company is the winning formula you’re looking for.

The go-to choice for window installation in Calgary is the Western Windows team—and we’re here to share 9 considerations to keep in mind before you hit the launch button on window replacement projects.

1. Set A Budget

Window replacement in Calgary can range from $300 CAD to over $1,000 CAD per window for a standard replacement, with more elaborate or high-end options going upwards from there. Typically, vinyl windows are more affordable, while wood or fibreglass windows tend to cost more.

The final price depends on the type, size, and material of the windows, the complexity of the installation, and any additional features or energy-efficient technologies.

Setting a budget early on will narrow down your choices and help you reach a decision.

2. Take A Good Look at Your Current Windows

Now’s the time to stop and stare at your current windows. What did you like about them when they were still in great shape? What didn’t you like about them?

Were they too difficult to clean and maintain? Did they let in too much heat or cold drafts?

Reflecting on these insights is a great way to start dreaming up window replacements in Calgary that tick all the boxes.

3. Get Creative

Don’t underestimate the power of windows; bringing in light and fresh air into your home isn’t all they do. Ultimately, they’re a style statement too.

When it’s time to opt for window replacement in Calgary, that’s your chance to go all out with creativity. From trim colours and window tints to glass design patterns, don’t hold back on bringing your dream windows to life.

As a trusted Calgary window replacement team, count on the Western Windows team to support your vision for custom windows and provide expert input.

4. Take Energy Efficiency into Account

You simply can’t lose when you opt for energy-efficient windows. It’s a win for your comfort levels and your wallet. Designed to minimize the transfer of heat, these types of windows can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer without overworking your HVAC system.

Just when you thought energy-efficient windows couldn’t get even more perfect, they also help reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future. And by the time you decide to sell your house, having these types of windows installed can increase resale value while making it more attractive to potential buyers.

When window shopping, be on the lookout for the right levels of U-factor and R-value.

U-Factor

One key factor to look for when selecting energy-efficient windows is the U-factor, which measures how well a window insulates. A lower U-factor indicates better insulation, meaning less heat loss in the winter and less heat gain in the summer.

R-Value

R-value essentially measures how effective a particular insulation material is at resisting heat flow, with higher values indicating better insulation performance. Choosing window replacements with high R-value signifies can help reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

5. Understand The Various Features of Windows

With all the diverse features available for windows, how do you even know which ones would be best to incorporate into the your home? Don’t forget to ask your window expert about these elements:

Double Pane: Standard for energy efficiency, with two layers of glass and an insulating air gap.
Triple Pane: Adds a third layer of glass for even better insulation and noise reduction.
Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass: A coating that reflects infrared energy, keeping heat inside during winter and outside during summer.
Gas Fills: Argon or krypton gas between panes for improved insulation over standard air fills.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much heat from the sun is blocked.
Visible Transmittance (VT): Measures how much light the window lets through.
Air Leakage (AL): Measures how much outdoor air enters a home through a window.
Soundproofing: Additional measures for noise reduction.
UV Protection: Can be strengthened through Low-Emissivity (Low-E) coatings, tinted glass, and laminated glass (these contain layers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) that can block over 99% of UV radiation)

6. Familiarize Yourself with the Different Window Styles

At Western Windows, we offer the following window styles:

casement
awning
single slider
single hung
fixed
picture
tilt-turn
bay/bow
specialty

Click here to discover more about these different window types.

Custom window replacements installed by Western Windows

7. Look Into the Pros and Cons of Different Window Materials

Beyond there being a plethora of window styles to choose from, it’s to meet the three most popular types of window materials: vinyl, wood, and metal/aluminum.

Vinyl Frames
Pros	Cons
Affordability: Generally cheaper than wood and metal/aluminum frames	Expansion and Contraction: Can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially affecting the seal and performance of the window over time.
Energy Efficient: They’re often filled with insulation material, providing good thermal resistance	Environmental Impact: Vinyl production and disposal tend to raise environmental concerns due to the chemical process and non-biodegradable nature of PVC
Low Maintenance: No need to sand, paint, or stain
Durable: They’re rust and corrosion-resistant, not prone to rot or decay, and can last for decades with proper care

Wood Frames
Pros	Cons
Natural Beauty: Wood’s classic and natural look is highly desired for its timeless aesthetic	Maintenance: Requires regular painting or staining to protect against moisture, rot, and insects
Customization: Can be painted or stained to match various designs	Cost: Generally more expensive than vinyl frames
Energy Efficient: Wood has natural insulating properties, which can help maintain indoor temperatures	Susceptible to Weather: Can warp, rot, or swell with moisture exposure if not properly maintained

Metal or Aluminum Frames
Pros	Cons
Durability: Strong and resistant to rot, shrinkage, and insects; holds up well in harsh weather conditions.	Energy Efficiency: Aluminum is a thermal conductor, which makes it less energy-efficient than wood or vinyl unless it has a thermal break.
Modern Look: Sleek and slim profiles suit modern architectural styles and allow for more glass and less frame.	Condensation: Can be prone to condensation and frost, which can lead to issues with mould or mildew.
Low Maintenance: Easier to maintain than wood and not prone to fading or cracking	Comfort: Metal frames can feel cold to the touch and may transfer outdoor temperatures indoors more readily than other materials

8. Match the Local Climate

Another important factor to consider when planning for window replacement in Calgary is matching the local climate. Always be on the lookout for windows with ENERGY STAR® certification for the Canadian climate zone as this seal means they meet the specific criteria for energy efficiency in the region.

Looking for some other helpful “hacks?” These window types will strengthen your home’s resistance against Calgary’s harsh winters:

Casement Windows: They often provide a tighter seal than sliding windows, which can be beneficial in both cold and windy climates.
Double or Triple Pane: For colder climates, double-pane windows with Low-E coatings and inert gas fills like argon or krypton offer good insulation. In extremely cold climates, triple-pane windows might be worth the additional investment for even better insulation.

9. Schedule the Replacement During the Most Ideal Season

Summertime is usually the peak season for window replacement in Calgary. This is because of the long days and generally good weather conditions where the installation is less likely to be delayed by rain, cold, or snow.

To avoid competing for an appointment during this busy season, make sure to finalize it months ahead. Otherwise, spring or fall are great options too for window installation in Calgary because of the milder weather that leads to more comfortable working conditions.

A Window of Opportunity to Level Up Comfort and Aesthetics

Since 1977, Western Windows has made a name for itself as a provider of windows and doors in Calgary that are both fabulous and functional.

Don’t miss out on a golden window of opportunity to give your home’s comfort levels and aesthetics a major glow-up.

Western Windows

At Western Windows, we understand that your home is your sanctuary, and we believe that the right windows can make all the difference in enhancing its comfort, beauty, and energy efficiency. Through our blog, we aim to provide you with valuable insights, tips, and inspiration to help you make informed decisions about your window needs. Whether you're looking to upgrade to energy-efficient windows, enhance your home's curb appeal, or simply seeking guidance on maintenance and care, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Thank you for choosing Western Windows—we're committed to exceeding your expectations and helping you achieve the home of your dreams.