Slider Windows in Regina: Key Things To Consider [2024]

Are slider windows energy-efficient enough for the harsh Saskatchewan climate? Absolutely! As long you buy and install the right ones.

In this post, we will break down the unique features in slider windows, how to compare them, and what to look out for when buying slider windows in Regina.

But if you don’t read any further, here are three key takeaways you must know:

• While sliding windows aren’t as efficient as casements, they can still provide acceptable levels of comfort and performance for a lower cost.
• The main performance difference between the two types of windows is that slider windows use weather stripping, and casement windows rely on compression seals. When closed, windows with compression seals make an airtight unit and are more efficient.
• When comparing slider windows, you should consider BOTH, their heat loss conductivity (U-Factor) and energy rating (ER) for a true sense of how the window performs.

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Casement vs. Sliding Windows: What’s the Difference?

As we mentioned above, the biggest performance difference between these two types of windows has to do with how they seal out cold air.

• Casement windows are much better performing, easier to operate, and generally look more modern than sliders.
• Slider windows may not perform as well, but they get the job done for a considerably smaller cost.

What are End-Vent Sliding Windows?

As you are looking for slider windows, you will probably come across options where the moving sash can also be turned inward. These units are called end-vent sliders. Although this feature makes the windows look more modern and practical, its purpose is for cleaning and maintenance only.

The sash in slider windows can turn at a 90-degree angle into your house. This allows for cleaning of the outer side of the window from the inside of the house.

You shouldn’t keep the sash in a turned-in position as the weight of the sash can cause stress on the frame resulting in deformation or even breakage. This is especially crucial in triple pane slider windows because their sashes are much heavier.

When cleaning the sash, it is advisable to support it at the bottom, so that the weight of the moving component doesn’t put stress on the frame.

Choosing The Best Sliding Windows in Regina

Remember, regardless of the window type or style, all windows you consider should be ENERGY STAR rated. ENERGY STAR is an international organization that qualifies efficient products that help you reduce energy usage in your home.

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As of January 2020, homeowners no longer have to consider a Climate zone when shopping for windows that are ENERGY STAR® certified in a particular area. A product in Canada is either ENERGY STAR® certified or not, with a single standard applied nationwide.

But keep in mind that if you want to purchase new energy-efficient windows in Regina, you should only consider models with a minimum ER (energy rating) of 34 to ensure that these windows meet the Canadian government fenestration standards.

What are energy ratings for sliding windows?

ER Ratings are a value given to windows, based on a calculation of different performance factors. These include the U-Factor and Solar Heat Gains. The ER rating has been devised specifically to make it easier for consumers to understand and compare window performance from different manufacturers.

• U-Factor is a calculation of how conductive a window is, how it is affected by convection heat loss and the emissivity of the glass in the panes. At the very basic level, the lower the U-factor, the better your window is at keeping heat inside the home.
• SHGC: The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures how much heat from the sun a window gains. Although ideally, you want as much heat from the sun in the winter months, most modern windows with high SHGC end up overheating the home. High SHGC factors are great for windows that see very little direct sunlight and can maximize energy gains in those places. The lower SHGC, the less heat from the sun your windows let through

ER Ratings or U-Factor: What’s better for comparing windows?

You can often see window ratings represented in either one of these values. But which one is a better representation of a window’s performance?

Casement & Awning $1,327-$1,400

Hung $968 – $1,350

Bay & Bow $1,374 – $3,500

Fixed Picture $800 – $1,613

Hopper $900 – $1,400

Custom Shape $1,504 – $2,755

An ER number is a more encompassing measure of how a window “transfers” energy. The more heat it gains rather than loses, the more efficient a window is considered. Therefore it always important to look at the SHGC number to see how it plays into the window rating.

The U-Factor on the other hand assesses a window’s resistance to heat loss. This is especially important to consider in Canada as we often have longer nights in the winter where it is essential for a home to retain as much of its heat as possible, while not gaining any energy for the sun.

• A high ER number may just mean a window gains a lot of energy from the sun. A low U-factor will mean that a window is great at keeping the warm air in.

When comparing performance ratings from top Regina window companies, you can use Natural Resources Canada website to analyse a full list of Energy Star approved companies and all their windows and doors energy ratings to understand whether their products match your expectations in terms of energy-efficiency for your house.

You will probably notice right away, that some of your local companies can’t provide any information available for their slider windows. This information is also not listed under the company’s registry on the NRCan website. This could mean one of two things: either slider windows from that company are not Energy Star rated, or the company gets their slider windows from elsewhere.

If you are considering slider windows for your replacement project, make sure that the ones you get have the energy rating of at least 34 since this is the bare minimum for windows to be considered energy-efficient today and qualify for the government rebates in Canada.