Follow the 12 steps to choose right

How to choose quality windows among all the options available? That’s a question many homeowners ask when it’s time to replace them. Since most people only buy windows 1.2 times in their lifetime, it’s worth taking the time to ask the right questions and make THE right choice — considering performance, energy efficiency, durability, aesthetics, budget, and more.

Step 1 — Replace or repair?

• Air infiltration: redo the seals, replace weatherstripping, readjust hardware
• Fogging between panes: have the IGU replaced (often covered by warranty)
• Interior condensation: lower home humidity (the window is doing its job)
• Exterior condensation: natural, disappears during the day
• Hardware issues: lubricate or have a pro replace
• Poor sound insulation: upgrade to double or triple glazing with gas fill

Step 2 — Select the ideal window type

• Casement: side-hinged, maximum ventilation, superior performance (weatherstripping compression)
• Single or double slider: horizontal glide, no exterior interference, most affordable
• Tilt-and-turn: two opening modes, European design, superior performance
• Awning: top-hinged, can be left open during rain, superior performance
• Single or double hung: vertical sash movement, traditional style, emergency exit
• Fixed or picture: no opening, often used for architectural shapes
• Bay window: three parts, two side sections at 30° or 45°, fixed center
• Bow window: more than three parts

Step 3 — Choose the material

In Canada, PVC represents 83% of the window market (68% in the US), followed by wood, hybrid, aluminum and fiberglass.

• PVC: excellent durability, best value, most popular, robust, unmatched thermal performance, low maintenance
• Wood: costliest, good thermal efficiency, vulnerable to humidity, regular maintenance required
• Aluminum: costly, rigid and strong, low maintenance, slim profiles, lower thermal efficiency, modern style

Step 4 — Choose a quality finish

• White or beige PVC: neutral, timeless
• Painted PVC: wide color palette, weather-resistant
• PVC DoubleNature™ (PH Tech exclusive): most realistic wood look on the market, high-end texture, interior/exterior wood face, maintenance-free
• Laminated PVC: film-covered, more expensive, no maintenance
• PVC/Aluminum hybrid: PVC efficiency + aluminum aesthetics
• PVC/Wood hybrid: PVC efficiency + wood aesthetics

Step 5 — Prioritize high insulation (energy efficiency)

• R-value: measures insulation — higher is better
• U-factor: inverse of R — lower is better for thermal resistance
• ER coefficient: balance of U-value, solar gain, air-tightness — higher ER is better
• ENERGY STAR certification: voluntary label guaranteeing one of the most efficient products on the market

Step 6 — Choose the right glazing

Double or triple glazing? Triple provides better thermal performance, comfort, less condensation, better sound insulation. But it takes 23-55 years of energy savings to pay back the extra cost. A good compromise: a few triple-glazed units on north-facing façades, doubles elsewhere.

• Inert gas (argon or krypton): less conductive than air, improves thermal insulation, reduces condensation
• Low-E coating: invisible metallic film that reflects heat (retains in winter, blocks in summer)
• Tinted glass: more privacy without blocking view, but reduces solar heat gain
• Frosted glass: sand/acid-treated for satin effect
• Between-the-glass blinds: manual or motorized, dust-protected
• Grilles: aesthetic appeal but reduce glazing area

Step 7 — Opt for high performance levels

• Wind resistance
• Water tightness
• Air tightness

Ask to see NAFS (North American Fenestration Standard) results. This indicates the Performance Grade (PG) obtained. In Canada, validate the minimum PG required for your environment.

Step 8 — Choose durable, easy-to-use hardware

Screens, cranks, handles, locks — you’ll use them daily. Insist on quality, ease of use, proven durability. Check that stressed parts are securely fastened (screws through two walls or in screw flutes).

• Standard or folding cranks (folding ones free up shelf space)
• Easy-to-remove screens (ideally with clips)
• Robust locks and handles

Step 9 — Take measurements before going to the store

• Height and width: include trim width and height for a reliable reference
• Depth: open your house door and measure between the exterior and interior walls

Step 10 — Validate what’s included in quotes

• Installation fees
• Warranty (duration, transferability, exclusions)
• All finish accessories (sills, trim, grilles, integrated blinds, etc.)
• All hardware (screens, cranks, handles, locks)

Step 11 — Prioritize installation by experts

Poor installation compromises tightness, operation, durability. Have windows installed by trained pros. Pay close attention to warranty terms: actual duration (the “lifetime” label often hides exclusions), travel fees, transferability (a plus at resale).

Step 12 — Find an experienced, trusted dealer

• Years in business
• In-house installation team
• Installer team experience
• Warranty duration and transferability (product + installation)
• Quality of after-sales service

To find trusted dealers near you, visit our Find a Retailer section.