Windows and doors are the biggest source of heat loss in Canadian homes — accounting for up to 25% of heating costs. Choosing the right windows isn't just about aesthetics; it directly impacts your energy bills, comfort, and home value. This guide covers everything from energy ratings to installation to Canadian incentive programs.
| Category | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard double-hung window | $800–$1,800 installed | The most common Canadian window replacement. Double-pane with Low-E coating is the minimum standard. Triple-pane is worth upgrading to in cold climates (AB, SK, MB, northern ON). |
| Casement window | $900–$2,200 installed | Opens outward on a crank — better air sealing than sliding windows. Popular in Canadian bedroom and living room applications. |
| Picture/fixed window | $600–$2,000 installed | No moving parts = maximum energy efficiency and longevity. Used where ventilation isn't required. |
| Sliding patio door | $1,500–$4,500 installed | Standard triple-track sliding door. Energy performance varies widely — check ER (Energy Rating) numbers. |
| Hinged patio door (French/garden) | $2,000–$6,000 installed | More expensive than sliding but better air sealing and a more premium look. Full frame replacement often required. |
| Front entry door | $1,500–$6,000 installed | Steel and fibreglass are the most popular materials in Canada — wood doors expand and contract dramatically with our climate. A new front door is one of the highest-ROI exterior upgrades. |
Look for the ENERGY STAR Canada label and ER number. Higher ER numbers indicate better overall thermal performance. For Canadian Zone 2 (most major cities): ER 34+ for windows. Zone 3 (colder regions): ER 40+.
Vinyl frames: most common, low maintenance, good thermal performance. Wood frames: best thermal performance but require painting/staining. Fibreglass: best performance and longevity but most expensive. Aluminum: not recommended for cold Canadian climates.
A great window poorly installed will leak air and water. Ensure your installer does a full frame-in installation with proper flashing, sill support, and foam sealing — not just a retrofit into the existing frame.
Triple-pane windows and ENERGY STAR-certified products may qualify for Canada Greener Homes grants of $125–$250 per window. A pre- and post-retrofit energy audit is required — see our rebates guide.
Vinyl windows typically last 20–30 years in Canadian climates before the seals fail and condensation appears between panes. Wood windows can last 30–50+ years with proper maintenance. Signs it's time to replace: condensation between panes, drafts, difficulty opening, and visible frame deterioration.
Yes, in most of Canada. Triple-pane windows cost 15–25% more than double-pane but reduce heating costs by 10–20% and dramatically improve comfort near windows in winter. In Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Northern Ontario, triple-pane is strongly recommended.
Replacing windows of the same size in the same opening typically does not require a permit in most Canadian municipalities. Enlarging an opening, adding new windows, or changing the window type (from fixed to operable) often does require a permit.
The Canada Greener Homes Grant offers $125–$250 per eligible window (ENERGY STAR certified, triple-pane) up to $5,000 total. Requires a pre-retrofit EnerGuide energy assessment before starting work and a post-retrofit assessment after.
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