Energy efficiency & the importance of proper installation

Imagine curling up in a warm, cozy home during Ottawa’s frigid winters, or staying cool and comfortable when the summer sun blazes outside. Achieving this comfort isn’t just about choosing the right windows and doors — it’s all about how they’re installed.

Don't Miss the Canadian Greener Homes Initiative

The Greener Homes Grant is gone, but the Greener Homes Loan is still available!

The Canada Greener Homes Loan (1) and Grant (2) programs were introduced by the Government of Canada in 2021 to help homeowners improve energy efficiency and sustainability in their homes. We frequently receive inquiries about which programs are currently available. Below, you’ll find a summary of the current status of these initiatives to clarify what options are open to you.

Door replacement - Reduce energy costs and increase comfort levels

Energy-efficient doors increase comfort and reduce energy costs. With environmental concerns and sky-rocketing fuel costs, more and more homeowners are opting for insulated front doors, but which door material will produce the best result? Read on to find out, then compare the Energy Star® ratings of the products you may be considering.

Today’s window technology fights the climate in every season!

What does it take in today’s window technology to become a climate fighter?
In today's fight against climate change, your home's windows are more than just a source of natural light — they are key players in energy efficiency. Modern window technology can significantly reduce your energy bills by optimizing solar heat gain in the winter and minimizing it in the summer.

Patio Doors
Sliding vs Swinging

Pros and cons of Sliding doors vs Garden doors
When considering the selection between swinging patio doors (also referred to as garden doors, swinging patio doors, or swinging garden patio doors) and sliding patio doors, it becomes a matter of personal preference. Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages associated with each option can significantly influence your decision-making process.

Patio Doors
Integrated Blinds

Patio Doors
Energy Efficiency

As Ottawa residents enjoy summer and anticipate fall, patio doors symbolize the effortless blend of indoor and outdoor living. Available in sliding or swinging styles, these doors do more than connect spaces—they welcome sunlight, fresh air, and the beauty of every season into your home.

Patio Doors
Maintenance Tips

Maintaining the charm and functionality of your patio doors is crucial for ensuring smooth operation and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home, especially in a city like Ottawa where the weather can vary drastically. Whether you have elegant swinging door or sleek sliding door, regular maintenance is essential to prevent common issues and to withstand Ottawa’s harsh winters and humid summers.

Stay Cool This Summer: The Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows for Your Home

Image of baking modern home with energy efficient windows and a cityscape of Ottawa in the background
As Ottawa braces for the summer heat, homeowners seek ways to maintain indoor comfort without high energy bills. Energy-efficient windows, featuring technologies like low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, double-pane, and triple-pane glass, offer a smart solution. These windows reduce heat transfer, keeping homes cool in summer and warm in autumn, making them a valuable year-round investment. Let's explore their key features and benefits.

Making Windows Energy
Efficient - INFOGRAPHIC

10 things that make a window energy efficient
Windows play a crucial role in the passive solar management of your home, offering the potential for free heating, cooling, and lighting. Window manufacturers and installers work hard to provide energy-efficient solutions that can significantly reduce your energy costs. This infographic highlights 10 key areas where manufacturers and installers focus their efforts to enhance window energy efficiency.

Keep Energy Costs Down and Comfort Up with Energy-Efficient Windows

Window Optimization - Maximizing comfort and energy efficiency
Windows provide light, warmth and ventilation, but they also decrease home energy-efficiency and can affect the comfort in your home. Choosing the right glass option will allow you to find a balance between energy costs and the desired level of home comfort.

Energy Star Labels
INFOGRAPHIC

Intro image for infographic about reading energy ratings
In Canada, energy-efficient windows begin with ENERGY STAR certification. These certified windows meet or exceed high-efficiency standards, ranking in the top 15 to 30 percent for energy performance in their class. Every ENERGY STAR-certified product comes with a temporary label, packed with ratings that help both suppliers and consumers understand what they’re purchasing or installing.

Energy Star Labels
Understanding Ratings

Energy Rating Example
Navigating window and glass ratings can be perplexing, as higher numbers are preferred in some cases while lower numbers are preferred in others. To assist you, here are some helpful tips.

Energy Star
CDN Climate Zone

Canada Window Energy Star climate zones for windows
Even though windows do not consume energy, they can be a significant source of heat loss in a home. ENERGY STAR qualified windows will save you money by reducing the overall annual energy costs. ENERGY STAR windows will also help keep your home more comfortable all-year-round and may have less condensation in cold weather compared with a conventional non-certified product.

Energy Star
Comparing Products

When deciding where to buy your windows, finding comparative information is straightforward. However, interpreting this data can be overwhelming.