What Factors Affect the Cost of Windows?

Many factors can raise or lower the overall cost of your windows. If you want to save money, we advise focusing more on product quality and less on non-standard window configurations that can drive the price up quickly. The main aspects to take into consideration when you choose your windows are:

• window model
• frame type
• glass type
• window size and quantity
• hardware
• personalization options.

Window model

There are numerous window models, with their prices varying based on the type and complexity of their opening mechanism and the number of parts they have.

Sliding windows

This is the most economical choice. Its opening mechanism is simple and rugged. However, it offers limited energy performance.

Hung windows

These windows work well in large openings and are easy to maintain. Like sliding windows, however, they are not the most energy-efficient option.

Casement and awning windows

Providing the best energy performance and coming in a wide range of configurations, these windows offer excellent value.

Architectural windows

These can be used to personalize your home by giving it a distinctive look. Since they are custom designed, they can be given non-standard geometric shapes, for example, circular or triangular. On the other hand, they are more expensive to produce, and installing them may also involve an additional cost.

Frame type

Frame materials and size can have an influence on the price of a window. It’s important to keep in mind that although narrower frames cost less, they are also less efficient. Wall thickness is another factor to consider: a thinner wall requires a narrower extension, which helps to bring down the price of your window.

 

The characteristics of the main materials are as follows:

PVC

Rugged and economical, it offers the best energy efficiency. Another benefit is that it’s 100% recyclable.

Hybrid (PVC & aluminum)

This is a good compromise between energy efficient PVC and the strength of aluminum. However, it costs more than PVC.

Wood

Wood is an effective insulator but requires more maintenance and is more expensive.

Glass type

Glass is one of the elements that has the greatest impact on the price of your windows. Keep in mind, however, that the type of glass you choose will have major impact on window performance and, therefore, your energy consumption.

Single glazed

Although it’s the most inexpensive option, this type of glass is not energy efficient and is therefore not the best choice in Quebec.

Double glazed

This type of glass offers good energy performance and the best value for the money.

Triple glazed

This glass achieves a high level of energy efficiency and provides excellent insulation, although it’s also the most costly. However, it’s worth noting that depending which way your window is facing, double glazing can also offer excellent energy efficiency at a lower cost.

There are additional options available to add visual interest to your windows, like frosting, patterns, tinting or lamination, although these do also add to the price.

Size and number of openings

As you can imagine, the more openings your house has, the higher the cost of your project. However, product dimensions are another factor with a big influence on the final cost. Very large windows cost significantly more because they require the use of more materials. It should also be kept in mind that PVC is not suitable for windows with very large panes. These need a stronger frame, such as hybrid (aluminum/PVC) or 100% aluminum, which also costs more. To avoid driving up the cost of your project unnecessarily, we advise opting for standard-sized windows.

Hardware

It’s important not to overlook the quality of the hardware, as this aspect helps to determine the lifespan of your windows. Your choice is typically between enamelled steel and stainless steel hardware. Stainless steel hardware costs more but lasts longer because it doesn’t corrode. It is strongly recommended for buildings located near water.

Personalization options

There are a variety of decorative accessories and options when it comes to personalizing your windows. Evidently, these add-ons come at an additional cost.

Crossbars and grills

To create a sense of style, you can enhance your windowpanes by adding crossbars or grills to divide larger sheets of glass up into smaller panes.

Paint

You can paint your windows to make them match your house’s exterior or interior. We can even produce frames in a paint colour that perfectly matches your outdoor siding. To save money, of course, you can simply go with white frames.

If you’re on a tight budget, it’s better to spend your money on the best durability and energy efficiency for the price. That said, it can be difficult to overlook the esthetic aspect, since your windows contribute to the value of your house. Beautiful windows can enhance your home’s curb appeal and even set the tone for your interior decor, and so it’s important to put care into choosing them.

Want more information about our windows? Ask one of our Vaillancourt Doors and Windows specialists! They’ll be happy to assist.