HOW TO CHOOSE WINDOWS FOR A NEW BUILD IN CANADA

24.11.2025

How to Choose Windows for a New Build in Canada: A Complete Guide

Choosing the right windows for a new build is one of the most important decisions for any homeowner, architect, or builder. Windows affect energy efficiency, comfort, natural light, ventilation, and long-term value—especially in Canada’s extreme climate.

1. Understand Canada’s Climate Requirements

Windows must handle –30°C winters, +30°C summers, strong winds, and heavy snow. They need excellent insulation, airtightness, and condensation resistance. Many homeowners choose triple glazing, thermally broken aluminum, or European tilt-and-turn systems.

2. Choose the Right Frame Material

A. Aluminum (Warm Aluminum)
Ideal for modern homes and large openings. Strong, slim, durable, and weather-resistant. Must include a thermal break.

B. PVC (Vinyl)
Cost-effective and insulating but not suitable for very large windows.

C. Wood or Wood-Aluminum
Premium aesthetic and excellent insulation but higher cost and maintenance.

3. Select the Best Glazing

A. Double Glazing – affordable but less efficient.
B. Triple Glazing – recommended for Canadian climates.
C. Laminated Glass – for soundproofing and security.

4. Essential Glass Technologies

– Low-E coatings (soft-coat or hard-coat)
– Argon or krypton gas fills
– Warm edge spacers

5. Choose the Right Window Style

A. Tilt-and-Turn – airtight, secure, energy-efficient, easy to clean.
B. Casement – good sealing.
C. Sliding or Single-Hung – poor insulation; not recommended for new builds.

6. Focus on Energy Ratings

– U-Value (lower = better)
– R-Value (higher = better)
– SHGC (solar heat gain)
– ENERGY STAR Canada certification

7. Consider Size and Orientation

– North-facing: choose triple glazing.
– South-facing: balance SHGC for winter heating.
– East/West-facing: solar control may be needed.
– Large openings: aluminum frames perform best.

8. Ventilation Matters

Tilt-and-turn provides the best airflow control. Avoid relying only on sliding windows.

9. Hardware Quality

Choose Winkhaus, Roto, or Siegenia. Cheap hardware causes poor sealing and sagging.

10. Professional Installation

Proper installation requires sill pans, flashing, airtight foam, vapor barrier integration, and correct leveling. Poor installation ruins even the best windows.

11. Budgeting

Costs depend on material, size, glazing, and installation. Aluminum triple-glazed windows cost more but offer the best long-term performance.

12. Final Recommendations

For new builds in Canada:
– Triple glazing
– Warm aluminum frames
– Low-E + argon
– Warm edge spacers
– Tilt-and-turn operable sections
– Professional installation
– Premium hardware

This combination provides maximum comfort, efficiency, durability, and value for modern Canadian homes.

Let’s work together to create something that’s not just made — but made for you.