Window replacement is one of the most impactful upgrades a Canadian homeowner can make for both comfort and energy efficiency. Drafty single-pane or aging double-pane windows are among the leading causes of heat loss in Canadian homes, where heating costs are significant across most of the country. The core decision — vinyl versus fiberglass frame, double versus triple pane, standard versus Low-E coating — can swing per-window costs from $600 to over $2,500. As with most renovations, Toronto and Vancouver installation rates run 15–20% above the national average.
This calculator estimates your window replacement project based on window count, frame material, glazing tier, and window styles. Configure the number of standard windows, any specialty shapes (bay, picture, awning), your preferred frame material, and whether you are upgrading to triple pane or adding a Low-E argon package. The estimate updates per window and in aggregate, so you can evaluate the cost difference of upgrading the whole house versus starting with the most problematic units.
A practical approach for large whole-house replacements: prioritize north and east-facing windows first, as they lose the most heat in winter with the least solar gain to offset it. Lead times for custom-sized or specialty windows run 6–12 weeks, so order early if you are working around a renovation schedule or need specific rough opening dimensions.