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Window Buying Guide: 11 Things to Consider

| October 23, 2024

Without a doubt, windows aren’t there just for aesthetic purposes. They also contribute to lower energy bills and a comfortable indoor environment. To help you make sure your investment is worth it in the long run, we’ve prepared a window buying guide that tells you everything you need to consider when choosing windows: window types, glass options, frame materials, energy-efficient properties, warranty, customizability, costs, and other features.

1. Window Buying Guide: Replacement or Retrofit Windows?

Before picking new windows, decide if you really need to replace the existing windows. Maybe retrofitting is still an option. A full window replacement implies replacing the entire window, including the frame. Retrofitting a window can be done when the window frame is still performing well, and you only have to replace the sash and the glass.

Obviously, retrofitting a window is less expensive than replacing it, but it may be difficult if the window is custom-made. In this case, you’ll likely have to work with the same manufacturer.

2. Choosing a Window Type

If you’ve decided to replace the windows, the first thing you’ll likely have to choose is the window type. These are the most common ones:

  • Casement windows – they are hinged on the side, opening outwards and can be single (only one sash) or double (two sashes that open like a French door).
  • Single-hung windows – they open by sliding the sash up and down; only one sash is operable.
  • Double-hung windows – they open by sliding the sashes up and down; both sashes are operable.
  • Sliding windows – they open by sliding the sash from one side to another and can be single (one operable sash) or double (two operable sashes).
  • Awning windows – they open outwards from the bottom, being hinged at the top.
  • Hopper windows – they are hinged at the bottom and open inwards from the top.
  • Fixed windows – they are inoperable.

These window types can be incorporated into other window styles. For example, you can install bay or bow windows with operable windows. Or you can install an awning window as a transom window (an operable window installed above the door, for example). You can also choose pass-through windows, which usually consist of sliding windows.

Each window type comes with advantages and disadvantages, so here are some tips:

  • Choose casement, awning, or picture windows for superior energy efficiency; hung windows and sliding windows can allow air in because of their opening mechanism.
  • Install awning windows in bathrooms, basements, or wherever you may need to leave the window open when it rains.
  • Install a hung window or a sliding window where there isn’t enough indoor or outdoor space for casement or awning windows.
  • Combine operable windows with a fixed window for more natural light and unobstructed views.

3. Window Frame Materials

Choosing the right window frame material is just as important as selecting the window type. Yet again, it’s not only about aesthetics. A high-quality window frame material is exactly what will ensure that your windows stay in good condition and perform at their best. The most popular choices in Canada are:

  • Vinyl windows – vinyl is affordable and highly energy-efficient. It also requires little maintenance. However, vinyl is prone to warping and cracking, especially in extreme temperature fluctuations like those in Canada.
  • Wood windows, while more expensive and requiring more upkeep to prevent rot and warping, are prized for their superior insulating properties and natural beauty.
  • Aluminum windows offer strength, durability, and scratch resistance but aren’t as energy-efficient as other materials.

Magic’s Hybrid Fusion Frame takes the industry lead in Ontario. It’s a combination of vinyl, aluminum, and steel.

The skeleton of our frames consists of aluminum and steel. It is further wrapped in vinyl, so the sturdy skeleton keeps the vinyl material intact under extreme weather conditions. This unique combination makes our material much more durable and energy-efficient. In addition, since our Hybrid Fusion Frame is stronger than a vinyl frame, it is much thinner and can withstand larger glazing areas.

Given these unique features, we offer a 40-year warranty for all our windows and doors.

4. Glass Options

We’ve chosen the window style and window frame. The glass comes next. Here’s what you should consider when picking glazing options:

  • Do you want single-pane, double-pane, or triple-pane windows? If you live in Ontario, we strongly recommend eliminating single-pane windows from your options, as you’ll likely have to replace them more often, your home won’t feel comfortable at all, and you’ll have to spend a lot on energy bills. The best option (which is more budget-friendly than triple-glazed windows) is Magic’s double-pane window with our Thermal Blinds.
  • If you do choose triple-pane windows, remember that they’re much heavier than double-pane windows, so they will be more expensive, and the windows may have to be smaller.
  • Double-pane and triple-pane windows are Insulated Glass Units. This means that between those two panes of glass, there are materials that determine the window’s insulation. First, there’s a warm-edge spacer. Secondly, the space between the panes is filled with an inert gas. Look for manufacturers that use materials of the highest quality to ensure your windows can withstand extreme weather conditions. At Magic, for example, we use the best-performing warm-edge spacers, and our IGUs have 35% more gas fills than standard IGUs.
  • Do you want to equip the glass with Low-E coatings? These can significantly contribute to the windows’ energy efficiency by maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. These coatings reflect solar heat in the summer and prevent heat escape during winter.

If you want to learn more about energy efficiency, you can contact Magic for a free consultation.

5. Energy Efficient Labels

It’s essential to consider energy ratings when selecting windows, as they directly impact your home’s energy bills and comfort. You should check the following labels for the windows you want to buy:

  • NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) Label, which tests and certifies windows based on energy ratings (but doesn’t confirm that the windows are energy-efficient). The NFRC label can help you compare various windows you can find on the market.
  • Energy Star Label, which confirms that you’re definitely buying energy-efficient windows that have been certified to meet specific energy efficiency standards.

These labels are emitted based on several energy ratings, including:

  • U-factor, which measures how well windows insulate; look for lower numbers.
  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which measures how much solar heat passes through a window; look for lower numbers in warm climates and higher numbers in cold climates.
  • Visible Transmittance (VT), which measures how much natural light passes through a window; look for higher numbers.
  • Air Leakage (AL), which measures how much air passes through a window; look for lower numbers.

You can check the energy ratings of Magic windows here.

6. Custom vs. Standard Window Sizes

Choosing between custom and standard window sizes depends on your budget, preferences, and home design. Custom-sized windows are tailored to fit unique frame dimensions, which can be especially useful in older homes with irregular openings. However, they typically cost about 50% more than standard sizes.

Standard-sized windows are designed to fit common openings, simplifying the buying process and reducing installation costs. Accurate measurements are crucial for either option, and it’s often recommended to have a professional take these measurements to ensure a perfect fit.

Besides the degree of customizability in terms of sizes, you should also check with the manufacturer regarding frame color, window grills, and finishes.

With Magic, your windows can be of any size, shape, or color you want and feature whatever grill option you choose.

7. Additional Features and Enhancements

Modern windows come with a variety of additional features and enhancements that can significantly improve their performance and functionality.

For example, you can choose impact-resistant glass, which offers another layer of protection, being particularly valuable in areas prone to severe weather conditions. This type of glass not only safeguards against storms and debris but also has soundproofing properties, making it beneficial in noisy environments.

Additionally, tempered glass, which is treated to increase its strength, shatters into small chunks rather than large, sharp pieces, enhancing safety. These features can add value and security to your home.

Furthermore, you should also consider the locking mechanisms and aim for the highest security grades. All Magic windows and doors come with locking mechanisms with a grade 40 security rating – the highest possible rating for windows and doors.

Another thing to consider is window treatments. Some manufacturers sell their windows with solar screens and shades. For example, all Magic windows and doors come with a fully retractable insect screen. You can also install our retractable solar shades and thermal blinds, which improve a window’s energy efficiency by 40%, allow you to control how much natural light enters your home, and have soundproofing abilities.

8. Practical Considerations

Window practicality and functionality are crucial considerations; probably just as important as energy ratings. Why? Windows are installed for years to come, and you definitely want them to be easy to open and close and easy to clean and maintain, right?

For example, double-hung windows require more maintenance because of their complex hardware. Casement windows have a crank mechanism that will likely need replacement once in a while. In addition, the standard opening mechanism of these windows makes them prone to warping and sash-sagging. It’s also quite difficult to clean the exterior glass surface of a casement window.

Furthermore, sliding windows are quite easy to open and clean, but you’ll have to schedule regular maintenance sessions to keep the tracks clean and lubricated.

Here’s how Magic windows stands out in terms of functionality:

  • Our casement window does not have cranks or hinges. It features our award-winning Parallex system. This means that our windows slide horizontally along a track. This makes them incredibly easy to open and close and gives you access to both glass surfaces, so you can wash them from the interior of the house.
  • Our tracks do not need to be lubricated because they shed themselves at a molecular level.
  • Each panel in our window wall operates independently. This means you can open as many panels as you want – keep one open for airflow and the other three closed, for example. This is valid for the retractable screens and blinds as well – they can stop anywhere along the track.

9. Window Installation: DIY vs. Professional

Choosing between DIY and professional window installation depends on your skills, budget, timeline, and the complexity of the project. Installing windows yourself is intriguing at first thought because you may save money on labor. However, a lack of expertise can lead to issues like drafts and leaks, which can compromise the window’s performance and your home’s energy efficiency.

DIY window installation also poses safety risks, especially when working at heights or handling heavy materials. On the other hand, professional installers bring expertise, efficiency, and the assurance that the job is done correctly. They also ensure that the installation is compliant with local building codes and regulations.

In short, saving money on installation is definitely not worth it – that is, if you’ve never replaced windows. You’ll likely end up paying a lot for repairs, and you may even have to replace the windows much sooner than expected if they aren’t properly installed.

10. Warranty and After-Sales Support

Understanding the warranty offered by a window company can provide peace of mind regarding the durability of your investment. Warranties vary by component, with some parts receiving shorter coverage than others.

Transferable warranties are beneficial for homeowners as they can enhance the property’s resale value. Knowing the warranty details helps ensure you get the most out of your window investment.

If you want to buy Magic windows, here’s what you need to know about our warranty:

  • Our 40-year warranty applies to all our windows and doors. It covers the insulated glass, the non-glass materials and workmanship, and the Slide ‘N’ Hide Screens and Blinds.
  • Our frame color has a warranty of 10 years from the date of sale.
  • Our warranty is transferable only one time.

11. How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost?

As mentioned, retrofitting the windows while keeping the existing window frame is more budget-friendly.

The final price of your replacement window depends on how many glass panes you choose, whether you add Low-E coatings and other factors. The cost of replacing windows also depends on the window style (for example, a bow window is much more expensive than a standard single-hung window).

Here are some price ranges based on window types (the lower limit equals poor quality, and the higher limit equals top quality):

  • Picture window: $700 – $900
  • Single-hung window: $300 – $2,200
  • Double-hung window: $500 – 2,500
  • Casement window: $400 – $2,500
  • Sliding window: $300 – $2,500
  • Awning window: $600 – $2,600
  • Hopper window: $400 – $1,700

Contact Magic to Discover All Our Revolutionary Features!

If you’re looking for innovative windows praised for their functionality and durability, Magic’s your go-to choice! All our windows and doors feature revolutionary systems that ensure your window’s longevity.

Ready to get the windows of your dreams? Hurry up to book a free in-home consultation, and let us handle everything else!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what windows to buy?

Before buying windows, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of all window types and window frame materials. You should also check their energy ratings, customizability options, and warranty.

How can you tell if a window is good quality?

To see if a window is of good quality, you should check its NFRC label, which assesses its energy ratings (U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Air Leakage, Visible Transmittance, and Condensation Rating). If a window has an Energy Star Label, you can rest assured it’s high quality.

What type of window is the most energy-efficient?

Casement windows and double-pane or triple-glazed windows are recognized for their superior energy efficiency. Choosing these window types can significantly contribute to reducing energy costs.

How often should I replace my windows?

You should replace your windows every 15-20 years, especially if you notice drafts and condensation between panes or can’t open and close them easily.

Are vinyl windows a good option for energy efficiency?

Vinyl windows are indeed a good option for energy efficiency due to their cost-effectiveness and effective insulation properties. However, vinyl is not a very durable material in extreme climates, so it’s best to opt for composite materials, like Magic’s Hybrid Fusion Frame, which are both energy-efficient and durable.

What is the benefit of low-E glass in windows?

Low-E glass significantly enhances energy efficiency by reflecting heat while also blocking harmful UV radiation, thereby protecting interior furnishing from fading. This leads to a comfortable indoor environment and reduced energy costs.

What is considered a good window rating?

To understand if a window has good ratings, you should check each energy rating separately. Look for lower U-values, lower/higher SHGC values depending on climate, higher VT values, and lower AL values.

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