Window Buying Guide
Working through the 12 steps below will ensure you've made the right choices in selecting and installing new windows.
Click each tab to go through each step.
Step 1 - Fix or Replace?
Annoying air leaks, foggy glass, outdated colour or style are just a few reasons you may want to replace your windows.
In some cases it is possible to breathe new life into old windows. However, when windows are truly past their prime and problems related to comfort, efficiency, sound-proofing or esthetics pile up, replacing your windows becomes the only option.
It is important to keep in mind that this investment is good for your home, improving its market value and your overall well being!
Speak to a Kehl expert to determine which solution is right for you.
You can also CLICK HERE to download our guide on how to know when it's time to replace your windows.
Step 2 - What is the ideal window type for my home?
Choosing the best replacement window means choosing the type or style of the opening that best satisfies your needs, style and personal preference. Consult our window comparison chart below by clicking on the arrows to read about the specifics and advantages of the different models available on the market.
Hinged on the top and swing outward.
Crank out opening with multi-point locks and X-Drive hardware.
Good ventilation all day long.
Aeration without the fear of leakage.
Superior performance (compressed weather-stripping)
European design.
A 3 part window connected at 30 or 45 degree angles.
One fixed sash between to operating windows.
Can be combined with either casement or hung windows.
BOW WINDOWS
- A 4 or 5 part window connected at 10-degree angles.
- Have a more circular appearance.
- Combine with either fixed or operating casement windows.
- Can be either fixed casements or hung windows.
CASEMENT WINDOWS
- Lateral opening mechanism allowing the window to open out on a vertical axis.
- Crank out opening with multi-point locks and X-Drive hardware.
- Optimal ventilation.
- Superior performance (compressed weather-stripping).
- Very popular in Canada and Western U.S.
FIRE ESCAPE WINDOWS
Lateral opening mechanism allowing the window to open out on a vertical axis.
Swing in opening with multi-point locks.
Optimal ventilation.
Superior performance compressed weather-stripping.
FIXED OR PANORAMIC WINDOWS
Large expanses of glass that cannot be opened and closed (fixed).
Mainly used to create specific architectural shapes over doors, windows and in vaulted areas.
Superior performance.
SINGLE OR DOUBLE HORIZONTAL SLIDING WINDOWS
Opens by sliding left or right.
Automatic latch lock.
Excellent ventilation.
Very popular in Canada and Western U.S.
SINGLE OR DOUBLE HUNG TILT WINDOWS
- One or two vertical sliding sashes.
Traditional style.
Space saving, does not interfere with outside elements.
TILT AND TURN WINDOWS
Dual indoor opening systems, vertical and horizontal axis.
Good ventilation all day long.
Aeration without the fear of leakage.
Superior performance (compressed weather-stripping).
European design.
Step 3 - Which Material Is Right For My Home?
PVC, Aluminum or Wood? The choice of the window profile material will not only depend on the architectural style of your home, but on the desired level of performance (i.e. comfort). Below are the characteristics of the three main materials available on the market.
PVC
- Very Durable Material
- Best Quality to Price Ratio
- Very Popular
- Strong
- Unmatched Thermal Performance
- Easy to Maintain
- Comes in Hybrid Combinations
ALUMINUM
Expensive Material
Strong and Very Resistant
Easy Maintenance
Thin Profiles for Improved Luminosity
Modern Contemporary Look
Mostly Commercial Use
WOOD
- Expensive Material
- Good Thermal Performance
- Vulnerable to Harsh Weather and Humidity
- Regular Maintenance Required (stain, paint, finish)
- Warm and Authentic
Step 4 - What Must I Look For In A Quality Finish?
Once you have selected the material, you can now choose a finish that will enhance the style of your window frames.
White or Beige (Tan) PVC
Solid Extruded Colour
Cost Effective
No Visible Dirt and Pollutants
Solid Beige In and Out
Double Nature PVC
Most Realistic Appearance of Wood
Texture Applicable In or Out
Innovated Solution (Patented)
Cost Effective Solution to Aluminum
Exclusive to Kehl Windows
Painted PVC
Variety of Colours
UV and Weather Resistant
Note: Darker Colours will Retain Heat
Laminated PVC
Covered with Applied Laminate
More Expensive
Maintenance Free
Looks like Plastic Wood
Hybrid Frame PVC/Wood
Covered with Applied Laminate
More Expensive
Maintenance Free
Looks like Plastic Wood
Perfect Combination of Wood and PVC
Any Wood Interior Selection
Comes Pre-Finished
Hybrid Frame Aluminum/PVC
Perfect combination of Aluminum and PVC
Very Expensive
Very Heavy
Very Strong
Step 5 - How Important is Window Insulation?
ENERGY STAR, R Value, U Value, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient - insulation is essential. Insulation ensures your window is operating at its best performance. It helps reduce energy consumption (an energy bills), improves air quality and increases comfort on a daily basis.
The R-Value is the resistance of a given material to thermal transmission. The higher it is, the better. The insulation specialist will often refer to the R-value and how it is an important number. Please note that a typical wall gets a R-25 rating, whereas an excellent window gets a R-5 rating. R-Value should not be your sole criterion.
The U-Value indicates the heat transfer rate. This is calculated by inverting the R-value 1/R. The lower it is the better insulation.
The ER Coefficient or Energy Rating (ER) calculation is based on the heat transfer U-Value, solar heat gain and air leakage. The higher the ER, the better the energy performance. ER value is the most accurate form of measurement for thermal performance of a window. A customer should always be looking for the Energy Star label that is placed on the most efficient products.
ENERGY STAR® Certification is a voluntary certification obtained by manufacturers. ENERGY STAR® certification is proof that a product is eco-energetic and that its insulation quality has been attested by an independent expert. There are products on the market today that offer excellent energy performance but are not ENERGY STAR® certified. It is up to the Consumer to inquire if their windows are ENERGY STAR® certified.
If you would like more information on this certification, please visit:
Other label certifications should include permanent stickers such as the Gold Seal Label for ENERGY STAR®
Another great way to enjoy the maximum energy benefits from your windows is insulated frames.
Contact Kehl for details on our All Season Premium window.
Step 6 - Window Glazing - What's Between the Glass is Important Too!
Glass/Pane Options
Double glazed, triple glazed, filled with inert gas (argon), or applied film are just some of the choices you can choose from. There are plenty of options available to ensure energy performance, comfort, sound-proofing and ultimately, your satisfaction!
Double or Triple Glazing
That said, a study performed by the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest laboratory revealed that it would take anywhere between 23 to 55 years of energy savings to recoup the extra cost of installing triple-glazed windows. Since double glazing offers nearly the same advantages, it is a very popular product, working incredibly effectively in the Southern Ontario region due to our unique climate.
With or Without Inert Gas
Low-E Film
Tinted Glass
Frosted Glass
Frosted glass is glass whose surface has been sandblasted or etched with acid to give it a satin look.
Even though it remains translucent, it can produce an attractive look. Decorative glass come in many styles.
Grids/Grilles or Muntin Bars
The advantage of grids is purely aesthetic because they reduce visibility as well as affect the energy performance of the window.
Step 7 - Do I Need the Highest Performance Level?
Just like energy efficiency, the window's overall performance is also essential to making the best decision.
The following three factors must be considered when determining a window's strength and efficiency:
- Wind Resistance
- Water Tightness
- Air Tightness
To know the overall performance of a window, ask to see the North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS) results. These results show the performance grade (PG) of a window. This information is obtained during tests performed in accordance with the Fenestration requirements imposed by the National Building Code.
Fenestration Performance Calculator
As members in good standing with Fenestration Canada, Kehl Windows and Doors has full privileges to use the performance calculator.
Simply click the "Fenestration Performance Calculator" photo to input your location and receive the standards for your area.
Quality Hardware is Not Overlooked at Kehl!
Screens, cranks, handles and locks are different types of window hardware.
Quality hardware includes everything that relates to the smooth operation of the window.
The quality of these parts is of utmost importance.
When the hardware is the best quality, you will be assured ease of use, painless maintenance and long-lasting durability.
It is important to make sure that the hardware that is used most often (e.g. handles) are securely attached.
The mounting screws must either cross two walls or pass through the screw boxes to ensure strength and durability.
Sleek and Sophisticated
EXCLUSIVE to Kehl Windows and Doors is our new Euro-Style hardware.
The sleek, fashionable, ultra-modern design will enhance your home decor!
Call for more information or come visit our Harrow showroom to see sophistication firsthand!
Choosing the Right Hardware
When it comes to hardware, you can see the difference. Quality hardware should be stainless steel from hinges to screws. Even your operator should be high quality with the crank handle nestled within the cover.
Call your Kehl Windows and Doors Rep. for complete details on X-Drive hardware.
Step 9 - Understanding Window Sizing Options
There are two ways to purchase windows, and for different reasons.
You can buy standard size or made-to-order windows. Standard sizes are mainly used on new construction, while made-to-order windows are more for the custom home or window replacement market.
Window Measurement
Any reputable window replacement company will come to your home and measure more than once to ensure accuracy. At Kehl, we measure up to THREE TIMES to give you the most accurate quote and assurance that your made-to-order window fits.
Not only are the width and height of the window measured, but the depth as well. We measure the depth to make sure that we place the new window in the warm part of the wall. This technique is used to ensure for the most energy efficient installation.
If you would like to measure your windows yourself for supply-only orders or for a quick FREE quote over the phone, feel free to do so with some instruction from this "how-to" video below.
Step 10 - What's Included In a Quality Quote?
It is imperative that you make sure everything is included in your quote, and that it meets your requests to avoid any unpleasant surprises on your bill.
A Kehl quote has everything itemized: quantity, window type, window location, product details (material, colour, glass options, etc.) sizes, unit price and total cost. A copy of your quote will be available once the initial measurements are taken. Revisions? No problem! Just give us a call and we will adjust your order and provide you with a revised quote.
Kehl aims to make your renovations stress-free from quote to installation!
Step 11 - Is This A Job For The Professionals?
Step 12 - Pay Close Attention to the Warranty!
Are there travelling costs? Are there special limits? Is the warranty only covered by the manufacturer? Is the warranty transferable?
These features offer immediate peace of mind, while appealing to potential home buyers when selling.
At Kehl Windows and Doors, we are the manufacturer and certified installer. Every item supplied in your project is covered by our warranty! How can we offer this in our warranty? We produce locally in Harrow, Ontario.
It is important to make sure your window supplier warranties their products and their installation.
