{"id":10407,"date":"2025-06-26T11:43:10","date_gmt":"2025-06-26T15:43:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/guide-dachat-pour-les-fenetres\/"},"modified":"2026-07-14T16:36:16","modified_gmt":"2026-07-14T20:36:16","slug":"windows-buying-guide","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/windows-buying-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Windows Buying Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section  class=\"hero-block hero-block\">\n    <div class=\"container\">\n        <div class=\"row\">\n                            <div class=\"hero-block__background\" style=\"background-image: url(https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/entete-contact@2x-scaled.png);\"><\/div>\n                        <div class=\"hero-block__overlay\" style=\"opacity: 0.3;\"><\/div>\n            <div class=\"hero-block__inner column-12 column-lg-8\">\n                                                                    <div class=\"hero-block__cta-list\">\n                                                                                    <\/div>\n                                           \n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n\n    <\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-rounded container-fluid has-primary-gray-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Choosing the right windows in 12 steps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">How do you choose quality windows from all the options available? It&#8217;s a question many homeowners ask when it&#8217;s time to replace them. Since most people only buy windows about 1.2 times in their lifetime, it&#8217;s important to ask the right questions to make THE right choice \u2014 considering performance, energy efficiency, durability, aesthetics, budget, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"post-listing-container\">\n    \n    <div id=\"post-listing\">\n        \n    <p class=\"jsx-posts-listing__empty column-12\">No posts found.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-rounded container has-black-gradient-gradient-background has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-style-separator is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Project tips from our experts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Take advantage of PH Tech\u2019s expertise and discover our practical advice and recommendations for making the best choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-outline is-style-outline--1\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/experts-tips\/\">Read our tips<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Answers to your frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Find quick, clear answers to the most frequently asked questions about our products, services and processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-outline is-style-outline--2\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\">Read our FAQ<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-rounded container-fluid has-orange-gradient-gradient-background has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Contact us for solutions tailored to your needs.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">We\u2019re here to answer all your questions and support you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-outline is-style-outline--3\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-align-center wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Follow the 12 steps to choose right<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>How to choose quality windows among all the options available? That&#8217;s a question many homeowners ask when it&#8217;s time to replace them. Since most people only buy windows 1.2 times in their lifetime, it&#8217;s worth taking the time to ask the right questions and make THE right choice \u2014 considering performance, energy efficiency, durability, aesthetics, budget, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1 \u2014 Replace or repair?<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Air infiltration<\/strong>: redo the seals, replace weatherstripping, readjust hardware<\/li><li><strong>Fogging between panes<\/strong>: have the IGU replaced (often covered by warranty)<\/li><li><strong>Interior condensation<\/strong>: lower home humidity (the window is doing its job)<\/li><li><strong>Exterior condensation<\/strong>: natural, disappears during the day<\/li><li><strong>Hardware issues<\/strong>: lubricate or have a pro replace<\/li><li><strong>Poor sound insulation<\/strong>: upgrade to double or triple glazing with gas fill<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2 \u2014 Select the ideal window type<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Casement<\/strong>: side-hinged, maximum ventilation, superior performance (weatherstripping compression)<\/li><li><strong>Single or double slider<\/strong>: horizontal glide, no exterior interference, most affordable<\/li><li><strong>Tilt-and-turn<\/strong>: two opening modes, European design, superior performance<\/li><li><strong>Awning<\/strong>: top-hinged, can be left open during rain, superior performance<\/li><li><strong>Single or double hung<\/strong>: vertical sash movement, traditional style, emergency exit<\/li><li><strong>Fixed or picture<\/strong>: no opening, often used for architectural shapes<\/li><li><strong>Bay window<\/strong>: three parts, two side sections at 30\u00b0 or 45\u00b0, fixed center<\/li><li><strong>Bow window<\/strong>: more than three parts<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3 \u2014 Choose the material<\/h3>\n\n\n<p>In Canada, PVC represents <strong>83%<\/strong> of the window market (68% in the US), followed by wood, hybrid, aluminum and fiberglass.<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>PVC<\/strong>: excellent durability, best value, most popular, robust, unmatched thermal performance, low maintenance<\/li><li><strong>Wood<\/strong>: costliest, good thermal efficiency, vulnerable to humidity, regular maintenance required<\/li><li><strong>Aluminum<\/strong>: costly, rigid and strong, low maintenance, slim profiles, lower thermal efficiency, modern style<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4 \u2014 Choose a quality finish<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>White or beige PVC<\/strong>: neutral, timeless<\/li><li><strong>Painted PVC<\/strong>: wide color palette, weather-resistant<\/li><li><strong>PVC DoubleNature\u2122<\/strong> (PH Tech exclusive): most realistic wood look on the market, high-end texture, interior\/exterior wood face, maintenance-free<\/li><li><strong>Laminated PVC<\/strong>: film-covered, more expensive, no maintenance<\/li><li><strong>PVC\/Aluminum hybrid<\/strong>: PVC efficiency + aluminum aesthetics<\/li><li><strong>PVC\/Wood hybrid<\/strong>: PVC efficiency + wood aesthetics<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5 \u2014 Prioritize high insulation (energy efficiency)<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>R-value<\/strong>: measures insulation \u2014 higher is better<\/li><li><strong>U-factor<\/strong>: inverse of R \u2014 lower is better for thermal resistance<\/li><li><strong>ER coefficient<\/strong>: balance of U-value, solar gain, air-tightness \u2014 higher ER is better<\/li><li><strong>ENERGY STAR certification<\/strong>: voluntary label guaranteeing one of the most efficient products on the market<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6 \u2014 Choose the right glazing<\/h3>\n\n\n<p><strong>Double or triple glazing?<\/strong> 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 fa\u00e7ades, doubles elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Inert gas (argon or krypton)<\/strong>: less conductive than air, improves thermal insulation, reduces condensation<\/li><li><strong>Low-E coating<\/strong>: invisible metallic film that reflects heat (retains in winter, blocks in summer)<\/li><li><strong>Tinted glass<\/strong>: more privacy without blocking view, but reduces solar heat gain<\/li><li><strong>Frosted glass<\/strong>: sand\/acid-treated for satin effect<\/li><li><strong>Between-the-glass blinds<\/strong>: manual or motorized, dust-protected<\/li><li><strong>Grilles<\/strong>: aesthetic appeal but reduce glazing area<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7 \u2014 Opt for high performance levels<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Wind resistance<\/li><li>Water tightness<\/li><li>Air tightness<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 8 \u2014 Choose durable, easy-to-use hardware<\/h3>\n\n\n<p>Screens, cranks, handles, locks \u2014 you&#8217;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).<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Standard or folding cranks (folding ones free up shelf space)<\/li><li>Easy-to-remove screens (ideally with clips)<\/li><li>Robust locks and handles<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 9 \u2014 Take measurements before going to the store<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Height and width<\/strong>: include trim width and height for a reliable reference<\/li><li><strong>Depth<\/strong>: open your house door and measure between the exterior and interior walls<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 10 \u2014 Validate what&#8217;s included in quotes<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Installation fees<\/li><li>Warranty (duration, transferability, exclusions)<\/li><li>All finish accessories (sills, trim, grilles, integrated blinds, etc.)<\/li><li>All hardware (screens, cranks, handles, locks)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 11 \u2014 Prioritize installation by experts<\/h3>\n\n\n<p>Poor installation compromises tightness, operation, durability. Have windows installed by trained pros. Pay close attention to warranty terms: actual duration (the &#8220;lifetime&#8221; label often hides exclusions), travel fees, transferability (a plus at resale).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 12 \u2014 Find an experienced, trusted dealer<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Years in business<\/li><li>In-house installation team<\/li><li>Installer team experience<\/li><li>Warranty duration and transferability (product + installation)<\/li><li>Quality of after-sales service<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<p>To find trusted dealers near you, visit our <a href=\"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/find-a-retailer\/\">Find a Retailer<\/a> section.<\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Choosing the right windows in 12 steps How do you choose quality windows from all the options available? It&#8217;s a question many homeowners ask when it&#8217;s time to replace them. Since most people only buy windows about 1.2 times in their lifetime, it&#8217;s important to ask the right questions to make THE right choice \u2014 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-templates\/archive-buying-guide-windows.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-10407","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/10407","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10407"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/10407\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11068,"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/10407\/revisions\/11068"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/phtech.option-design.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10407"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}