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.

Performance Rating
Visual Transmittance (VT)

Understanding Visible Light Transmittance
The amount of light you let into your home is a matter of personal taste. When replacing your windows, knowing what VT is and how to control it will help you get it right.

Performance Rating
Solar Heat Gain (SHGC)

the higher the SHGC, the number, the greater the solar gain
Let the sun shine in, or not. The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measurement can help you achieve a desired increase or decrease in the amount of solar radiation (heat) passing through a window into your home.

Performance Rating
Energy Star (ER)

The higher the ER rating number, the more energy-efficient the window or door.
Although windows and doors don’t consume energy themselves, they can be a significant source of energy loss. If you're purchasing windows with energy efficiency in mind, the ER helps you make standardized product comparisons.

Performance Rating
Air Leakage (AL)

Image showing air leakage scale
Air leakage (AL) is becoming an increasingly important factor when selecting energy-efficient windows and doors, especially for homeowners in cold climates like Ottawa. With rising energy costs and a focus on energy efficiency, understanding AL can help you choose products that reduce drafts and maintain indoor comfort. But what exactly is air leakage, and why should you care?

Performance Rating
R-value of Insulation

Move over, traditional window specs – the R-value is becoming a popular measurement in the world of window sales! Though it's been around for a while, this rating is gaining traction as an indicator of window efficiency. But why the sudden surge in popularity? Keep reading to find out.

Performance Rating
U-factor (U-Value)

The lower the U-value, the better the window is at keeping the heat in during the winter and the better it insulates
When choosing windows, two key metrics to consider are the U-factor (or U-value) and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Understanding these can help you make informed decisions for better home comfort and energy efficiency.

Learn About Windows
E-BOOK GUIDE

Everything you need to know about windows guide
Considering replacement windows? Cut through the complexity with our "Almost Everything You Need to Know About Windows" guide. Download the 32-page PDF now for detailed information, diagrams, and expert advice to help you make an informed decision.

Window Technology
Fighting the Climate

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.

Window Technology
Battling the Sun

The sun’s warmth and light can be a blessing, illuminating our homes and making them feel cosy and inviting. However, the intense heat and UV rays that come with it can also pose significant challenges.

Condensation
INFOGRAPHIC

Condensation on windows is one of the most persistent household annoyances during Ottawa’s winter months. While it can happen year-round under the right conditions, it's most noticeable when temperatures plummet.

Condensation
Understanding Causes

Winter in Ontario brings picturesque cityscapes, but it also brings an unwelcome guest: window condensation. This pesky issue can disrupt your comfort and harm your home's energy efficiency. Explore the common causes of this problem and learn how to prevent it.

Condensation
Why Take it Seriously?

Ice buildup on patio door due to condensation - hard wood floor damage
It's easy to dismiss window condensation as just a bit of harmless moisture. However, these seemingly trivial water droplets can seep into hidden spaces, causing significant home damage and health issues over time.