IMPROVE YOUR HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY WITH HIGH-PERFORMANCE WINDOWS & DOORS
How old are your windows & doors?
Older windows and doors are often poorly insulated and not airtight, so they let more heat into your home during the summer and out in the winter. This makes your home less comfortable, forces your heating and cooling systems to work harder, and causes your monthly energy bills to go up.
High-performance windows and doors can prevent drafts from leaking into your home — and stop money from slipping through your fingers. If you’re thinking about upgrading your existing windows and doors to high-performance models, you may be eligible for a rebate! We have a variety of ways to help you save on your upgrade.
BENEFITS OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE WINDOWS & DOORS
Energy savings
Multiple panes of glass, low-e coatings, low conductivity spacers, and high-quality weatherstripping make high-performance windows and doors energy efficient, which translates to energy savings for you.
Comfort
With reduced air leakage and improved thermal performance, your home will feel more comfortable with less drafts and cold spots.
Reduced condensation
Condensation forms when warm, humid air contacts a cold surface. We usually see condensation form on windows or doors with glass inserts when the temperature drops because they tend to be the coldest indoor surfaces. High-performance windows and doors allow for a comfortable level of humidity in your home without creating condensation.
Noise reduction
The additional panes of glass and increased air tightness create a buffer from outside noise, making your home more peaceful.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Make sure you check the following properties before you invest in high-performance windows and doors:
Triple pane glazing
Windows and doors with three panes of glass (or triple pane glazing) have greater insulation properties than single or dual pane windows and glass inserts. They’re the most common type of energy-efficient windows available today.
Low-emissivity (low-e) coating
A low-e coating is an invisible metallic coating that’s applied to the glass. There are different types of low-e coating, each with specific properties. Some keep heat inside during the heating season, some reduce heat from the summer sun, and some help block harmful UV rays. A knowledgeable sales representative can help you choose the best coating for your needs.
Insulating spacers
Insulating spacers, also known as “warm edge” spacers, provide a thermal break between the glass panes to keep the edges of the glass warmer. This reduces condensation around the edges of your windows or the glass inserts of your door.
Argon gas fill
To reduce heat loss, consider argon gas fill. Argon is an inert gas that acts as insulation between the glass panes of your windows and doors.
Low U-value
The rate of heat loss is determined by the U-value of a window or door. You want to look for windows and doors with a low U-value because they have better insulating properties.
High energy rating (ER)
Look for windows and doors with a high Energy Rating (or ER). An ER rating combines the U-value, air leakage, and solar heat gain into a single number for an overall rating. Keep in mind, windows and doors with high solar heat gains allow heat in, especially on south or west facing windows. This can lead to increased room temperature, causing your air conditioning to work more during summer months. If you choose high solar heat gain windows and doors for passive heat gain, proper shading strategies, such as overhangs, may need to be considered during the summer months.
ENERGY STAR®
When you’re shopping, look for ENERGY STAR certified windows and doors. They’ve been tested to meet strict requirements for energy performance, they’re specifically designed for harsh climates, and they’re suitable for homes in Manitoba. Windows and doors with the ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient designation provide the best energy performance.
Window ventilation
Windows fall into two broad categories: fixed and operable. Fixed windows are less expensive and more airtight since there are no moving parts. Operable windows, on the other hand, can provide ventilation — the quality and amount of ventilation is dependent on the window’s placement, height, and opening size — and are available in sliding, casement, awning, and tilt and turn styles.
MAXIMIZE THE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR EXISTING WINDOWS & DOORS
If you’re not ready to upgrade to high-performance windows just yet, there are steps you can take to make your existing windows as energy efficient as possible:
- Reduce air leakage by caulking gaps between the trim and wall, and between the trim and window frame.
- Install or replace old or damaged weatherstripping on operable windows.
- Pick up a window insulating film kit. Sealing your windows with plastic film provides an additional barrier to reduce drafts.
- If you have storm windows, ensure that they’re in good shape and seal well when closed. When used properly, they can create an insulated air space that reduces condensation and heat loss/gain, and they can prolong the life of your interior windows.
Similar to windows, you can take steps to make your existing doors as energy efficient as possible before you consider an upgrade:
- To reduce air leakage, caulk any gaps between the trim and wall, and make sure the weatherstripping is flexible and properly installed.
- Replace or repair any damaged glass inserts.
- Replace weatherstripping if it’s worn out or doesn’t seal properly.
- Install bottom seals or sweeps on doors that don’t have sill weatherstripping.
TALK TO A CONTRACTOR
Before you start shopping for high-performance windows and doors, it might be worth speaking with an expert who can point you in the right direction and help you make sure you’re purchasing the right windows and doors for your home.
We recommend getting quotes from at least three different suppliers and choosing one that provides the best value (rather than the lowest price).
GET A REBATE
We have multiple ways to help you save when upgrading your windows and doors. Find the offer that’s right for you.