Picking out the best window styles for your home indeed requires a degree of knowledge and expertise, as they come with so many variations in shape and function.
That is why we have contacted Ecoline, window installers in Calgary, to come up with a vital list of things to consider as you look to select the best window styles to get for your residence, here in Calgary.
Popular Window Styles in Calgary
There are a few window styles that are commonly used in this region, as they’re readily available in the market and proven to be very efficient.
- Casement Windows
These windows are hinged on the right or left side and open outward with a special crank handle turn. They are a great choice when it comes to ventilation and the natural light they bring into the home. In addition, casement windows provide one of the best insulations for the home, which is excellent for total noise reduction and the complete absence of air leakage as well.
- Awning Windows
Awning windows are a perfect choice for homes with high ceilings, as they allow hot air to escape better than other window styles.
Although built similarly to casement windows, awning windows are hinged at the top, and their most significant advantage is that they can be left open even when it rains because the glass slopes downward when the window is extended.
- Hung Windows
Mostly ideal for bathrooms and bedrooms because of how they tilt inward, these windows are available in two types – single and double-hung configurations.
Movable panels, called sashes, on both styles, can slide vertically to open and close, and a lot of homeowners claim that this choice of windows allows for natural convection inside the home. As a result of these sashes, cool air enters through the bottom of the window while warm air escapes through the top.
- Sliding Windows
Another perfect alternative is sliding windows, especially in residences where space does not allow to have hinges that move vertically.
Sliders operate by pushing them to the side on tracks that run above and below the window.
Energy-efficient, stylish and providing unobstructed view outside, sliders are one of the most desired windows for Calgary residences.
Popular Window Styles: Pricing
When it comes to prices in Calgary for the above-mentioned window styles, you should know that the final cost depends on many aspects such as frame, glazing, add-ons etc. But let’s face it; new windows are not a cheap investment since it is a lifetime purchase usually. That is why you have to be sure you get the best products to ensure peace of mind in the next 25-30 years. The table below offers an average price for popular window styles in Calgary:
| Casement, $ | Awning, $ | Single Hung, $ | Single Slider, $ | |
| Calgary | 807 | 746 | 825 | 842 |
Source: Ecoline Windows Calgary
Which Window Style Is Right for You?
Being well informed about the popular styles available to you is one thing but knowing which of these windows is right for you is a different ball game entirely. When it comes to selecting the perfect window style for your area, here are a few crucial factors to pay close attention to:
Make sure to choose windows that suit your home design
A vital aspect in selecting the window style that best suits you is to know what type of window frame your home has. This way, you can surely get something that would work with it seamlessly.
Indeed, if you want to keep your windows operational for decades rather than just a few years, a high-quality frame is not one to compromise on when building.
So, when it comes to purchasing windows, you need to know what type of frames you have, and then you may now worry about the glass.
There are four major types of window frames:
- vinyl
- aluminum
- fibreglass
- wood
Knowing the particular type of window frame you have, will help to determine which type of window style is best for you. In case you go with a full replacement and want to change your home exterior, vinyl would suit the best due to its low cost and maintenance compared to other frames.
Know your budget
As much as you want your new windows to be sleek and stylish, you must have a budget for the project, and you must also stick to it religiously.
Go and research the market, get quotes from different installers and then compare them with what you’re willing or planning to spend.
One thing you should also note is that the most expensive materials or quotations don’t necessarily translate to the best options for you. Sometimes, even a relatively cheaper option could turn out to be much better than a more expensive one.
No matter how beautiful an option looks, if it will put you in the red and adversely affect your credit, you might want to take a rain check on it and go for something else that’s within budget and also suitable for your home.
Decide on the correct configuration
Modern hardware? Additional locks for security? Stylish painting? All that is possible when you decide on the final configuration of your window. However, keep in mind that all that adds to the price but might not be that important for you. What really matters is to analyze your climate zone and heating bills first and choose the glazing that will help you to cut down on energy bills annually. Choose energy-efficient windows that are Energy Star-rated and decide whether you need double or triple-pane units depending on your climate zone. Keep in mind, though, that triple glazing will cost you 10-15% more.
Get the Right Installation
If you want the project to be completed correctly in the short and long term, the most reliable and high-quality option is to hire a reputable window replacement contractor.
You must ensure that the contractor you decide to work with always follows CSA guidelines and your local building code to prevent having issues with local laws in the future. Moreover, always try to find out whether a company you deal with:
- reputable and experienced – check reviews online and ask friends for references;
- offers you high-quality products just like Ecoline Windows who have all their products NFRC and NAFS-11 tested, and Energy Star-rated;
- provides you with a decent 25 years warranty;
- has in-house and skilled installers.