New Windows for House

[CETokyo]

I would appreciate any and all suggestions regarding a supplier/installer for new Windows for our house.
House in Calgary, Lakeview.

The current windows are from the mid-1960's.
I am looking to replace a few windows each year for several years (budget).
Can you recommend a window supplier, maker.
Thanks

[curves2000]

Originally Posted by CETokyo

I would appreciate any and all suggestions regarding a supplier/installer for new Windows for our house.
The current windows are from the mid-1960's.
I am looking to replace a few windows each year for several years (budget).
Can you recommend a window supplier, maker.
Thanks

Are you in Calgary? If you are, have a look at https://www.europeanwindows.ca/

European windows and doors are very high-quality products and very energy efficient along with being a long lasting product. They probably are a little more expensive but you make up for it in other ways.

I don't have any specific experience with the above-mentioned company but I may in the future. It's a different design for your home and the quality and security are very tough to beat.

Good luck with the renovations and changes!

[csnarpy]

We got supreme windows about 7 years ago. Triple layer argon with custom sizing. Not one problem with them at all. Install was flawless.

[JBR]

2 experiences with Ecoline. We had 4 basement slider windows and kitchen awning style replaced (early 70's). Great product and experience. Pro's all the way.

We recommended them to the in-laws, who ordered 2 x patio doors. One came in very late but was installed and working excellent. They have been waiting for the second door for 6 additional weeks. An error in ordering on the Ecoline side, but still no word on a completion date.

[Red Slinger]

Make sure you're getting windows that are rated and built in Alberta. There are some retailers in Alberta that sell BC grade windows that are clearly not made for our climate.

[Lil Pedro]

Getting a quote on Friday for new windows in my house (25 years old) from Windows Canada as I got a pamphlet in the mail, will let you know how it goes. Would love to here more recommendations of other companies.

[Northendzone]

I believe that plygem is a local widow builder.

I have no experience with them, but I do know someone who works there

[#22]

I’m also in the window replacement boat. Any updates / quotes / experiences / recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I will be getting some quotes in the next few weeks and will share my own experiences.

Many thanks

[moncton golden flames]

just keep in mind that windows are the weakest part of your building envelope and you get what you pay for. windows should not be 'cheapest quote wins'

[Shazam]

Wut. Virtually any window keeps the moisture out. If you're worried about heat, the best thing to do by far is seal any holes in the attic and top up to R-50.

[csnarpy]

Also, For the love of g, do not get sliders. Easy to break into and half the R value as casement.

[Travis Munroe]

Originally Posted by csnarpy

Also, For the love of g, do not get sliders. Easy to break into and half the R value as casement.

What makes them easier to break into?
Usually, you have 2 locking tabs + at least 1 less secure partially open security tab.
If someone wants to basically break through all 3 security mechanisms they might as well of just smashed the window. Not to mention most people have an alarm system.

We put a number of slider windows in when we recently replaced all but 2 of the windows and didn't see much of an issue with it but now you have me second guessing our decision.... the R value part I did not know about.

[Shazam]

An awesome, top of the line window has an R-value of 4. It doesn't really make a difference what kind you get.

[topfiverecords]

Originally Posted by Shazam

Wut. Virtually any window keeps the moisture out. If you're worried about heat, the best thing to do by far is seal any holes in the attic and top up to R-50.

Not to mention it’s so dry here that outside moisture isn’t much to worry about. You still want proper installation with any product for when we do get the odd driving rain, but I don’t think many, if any manufacturers are having leaking issues in the frame. Condensation forming in the sealed units is a concern but could in theory happen with any supplier.

Aesthetics, finish, hardware and thermal break in the frame is where some of the differences fall.

[Red]

I did windows a couple years back. Used Canadian Choice, not bad overall, but the installers were messy. The windows are fine, have variety of cranks and partial sliders.

Things I learned, skip the chemistry sales pitches. The R value is terrible no matter what window you put in. I paid a bit extra for triple panes, but i wouldn't pay more than a nominal surcharge. Maybe 5%?

Dont get the maintenance free clip-on trim inside. Sounds like a good idea, but they look out of place. Too shiny. Just ask for mdf or wood casings.

Most important point, figure out window coverings ahead of time. In an old house you have 2x4 construction. Depending on what style you choose you may be limited on blinds. 3.5" blades may not fit. Cranks may be in the way etc.

Not sure if you like them or want them, but bay windows are not a huge additional cost to build. I added one in the kitchen and it was a few hundred extra.

And negotiate the price. These guys have a huge mark up.

[You Need a Thneed]

We had out main living room picture window replaced last summer with a new Lux window with two casement panels. We love it so far.

Previously, there was always a draft coming off the window. In this winter’s cold snap, I haven’t once noticed a cold draft.

I got an aluminum clad PVC window.

[Drummer]

Call Supreme Windows and ask to speak to Karl.

[csnarpy]

Originally Posted by Drummer

Call Supreme Windows and ask to speak to Karl.

This. He was my rep as well. Very very knowledgeable and forward thinking.

[csnarpy]

Originally Posted by Travis Munroe

What makes them easier to break into?
Usually, you have 2 locking tabs + at least 1 less secure partially open security tab.
If someone wants to basically break through all 3 security mechanisms they might as well of just smashed the window. Not to mention most people have an alarm system.

We put a number of slider windows in when we recently replaced all but 2 of the windows and didn't see much of an issue with it but now you have me second guessing our decision.... the R value part I did not know about.

As an alarm tech, I’ve seen and could open a sliding window system in prob less than a minute, with no tools and no breakage. Bar along the bottom doesn’t matter. If I know then I’m pretty sure any knowledgeable thief knows.

[Iggy_12]

Has anyone recently replaced a sliding glass patio door, approximately how much should i expect to do that?