Choosing The Best Windows For Winnipeg's Climate

Winnipeg is a thriving and dynamic city that we're proud to call home. But it's not nicknamed Winterpeg for nothing. In fact, it's tough to find a major city anywhere in the world with climate fluctuations as extreme as those in our Manitoba capital. From -40℃ in the winter to +40℃ in the summer, our homes and buildings have a lot to contend with.

At STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg, many of our customers wonder how to select windows that will stand up to both the bitter cold and intense heat while also remaining durable over the long term and offering superior energy efficiency. Below, we’ve considered the various factors that make some windows more suitable for the Winnipeg climate than others and also provided a few tips on how to keep costs affordable when shopping for them.

If you still have questions about Winnipeg-worthy windows after reading this post, come by our store in person to speak directly with a friendly and knowledgeable STAR representative who can help you select the very best windows for your specific project.

Energy Efficiency

According to Natural Resources Canada, inefficient windows can account for up to 25% of total house heat loss. Besides contributing to an indoor climate that's too hot or too cold (depending on the season), they can also result in sky-high energy bills and an increased environmental footprint. For all of these reasons, sourcing energy-efficient windows is extremely important in extreme climates such as Winnipeg's. But what exactly should you be looking for?

First of all, you'll want to get the glass right. While inexpensive, single-pane windows have virtually no insulative properties and aren't suitable for Winnipeg's climate. Look for double or, ideally, triple-pane windows (also known as triple-glazed windows) to improve insulation and minimize heat transfer. In addition, consider investing in windows with the following features:

• Warm Edge Spacers - Structurally stable spacers that keep glass panes apart while also insulating window edges.
• Low-E Coating - Low-emissivity window glass is coated with a metallic oxide coating that can't be seen but reflects back heat and prevents heat transfer.
• Gas Fills - Filling the gaps between glass panes with a gas such as argon, krypton, or xenon provides additional insulative properties when compared to regular air fill.

Frame Material Considerations

Selecting the right window frame material can make all the difference in preventing air leakage and helping you reduce your monthly energy costs. Here's how some of the most popular window frame materials measure up to Winnipeg's harsh climate:

• Aluminum Window Frames - Economical but conductive, aluminum frames allow for heat transfer and aren't recommended for Winnipeg winters. However, hybrid aluminum frames, which have a vinyl outer surface, may be well worth considering.
• Wood Frames - Aesthetically beautiful and offering insulative properties, wood frames require ongoing maintenance and are prone to expansion/contraction and rotting with temperature and moisture changes.
• Composite Vinyl PVC Window Frames and Fibreglass Window Frames - Low maintenance, affordable, and energy-efficient, these are both excellent options for keeping out cold air.

Style and Functionality

Once you've selected your window panes and frame material, you'll want to consider the style and function of your Winnipeg windows. The three options below are some of the most common:

• Casement windows open outwards with a crank and must be manually locked. They offer a superior seal when locked and can be a great option for keeping out the cold.
• Double-hung windows are made of two sashes that can both slide up and down. When properly installed with weather stripping, they can provide an excellent air-tight seal while also offering flexibility in terms of air flow in more moderate temperatures.
• Sliding windows are a perfect option for window openings that are wider than they are tall and where a window that opens outwards is not ideal. Like double-hung windows, they can be effectively sealed against the cold with proper installation.

Installation and Professional Help

When it comes to efficient and long-lasting windows, the importance of proper installation cannot be underestimated. If you are in search of reputable window installation professionals in Winnipeg, the team at STAR Building Materials can offer recommendations.

Maintenance and Longevity

Keeping extreme temperatures out is an ongoing necessity in Winnipeg, and you don't want your windows unexpectedly falling short as the cold weather approaches. To avoid frustration and discomfort, be proactive about taking care of your windows with routine maintenance, such as:

• Inspecting caulking
• Checking the operation and seals of opening windows
• Maintaining weather stripping
• Checking the overall health of window frames
• Monitoring moisture levels inside your home

In addition, at STAR, we strongly encourage our customers to consider investing in window options with warranty and maintenance profiles that will match their needs and expectations.

Ready to find the ideal windows for your Winnipeg area renovation project? Visit us at STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg today!