Window Prices in Winnipeg: Plan For Your Replacement

Long before the installation, or even deciding on what window type to get, most homeowners in Winnipeg have one burning question when it comes to their replacement: “how much is the window replacement going to cost?”

Window Replacement Cost Estimator

And while the question may be straight to the point, there usually isn’t a universal answer when it comes to window prices. That is because the price depends greatly on the condition of your individual home, and the work required to extract your old windows and replace them with new ones.

There are obviously some general guidelines when it comes to window prices in Winnipeg:

• Bedroom or Kitchen window prices range between $900 and $3600 on average.
• Bow or Bay window prices range between $2,800 to $4,500
• Living room window prices range between $2,100 to $3,700
• Standard size patio door prices range between $1,700 and $3,100
• Basement window prices on average are between $600 – $1100

But pricing a replacement project only on the cost of the window, is like pricing a car based on the quality of its wheels. You need to consider other major factors that affect both the quality and the cost of your installation.

• Replacement windows are a long-term investment. It may seem frightening when you have to spend thousands of dollars to get new windows in the entire house. But if you consider that quality windows should last you around 25 years, the processes and components involved have to be at a certain quality standard.
• Installation type makes a difference. There are only two types of window installation: full-frame and retrofit. A full-frame installation is more thorough and is usually recommended for residential replacement windows, but it can also cost up to 20% more. Remember, correct installation is essential to the longevity and performance of your new windows.
• Window type matters. Customers and even window companies sometimes debate whether to get triple-pane or double-pane windows. What is more important, is that windows you get are ENERGY STAR rated and are considered efficient in your local climate zone.
  In order to be considered efficient in Winnipeg, windows must meet requirements for climate zone 2, and have a minimum ER rating of 29. 

Comparing Window Prices in Winnipeg

While it is often difficult to get an exact quote on a window replacement over the phone, or just by submitting window dimensions, most window companies should still be able to provide you price ranges for their product. Based on the type of services and windows the company offers, their price ranges will also vary.

Which Window Installation Type Is Right For You?

There are two main types of replacement window installations. They vary significantly in the scope of work, and as a result in the price of the project.

In a full-frame installation, the old window gets removed down to the wall structure around it. This ensures that any rotten or damaged wood around the old window is removed and replaced, and the window opening is properly prepared and cleaned to take a new window.

With a retrofit installation, the old window frame is kept intact and a new window is put into the existing opening. While it helps preserve the look of your old windows, this type of installation does not address the potential moisture or rotting issues inside the structure.

Homeowners often think that the installation type is a matter of choice. In reality, it depends entirely on the condition of the existing windows and the condition of the walls around them. Beware that there are window companies in Winnipeg that sell retrofit installations and pass them off as a full-frame replacement.

Casement or Sliding Windows

Just like there are two types of window installation, there are two main types of vinyl windows in Canada: casement and sliding windows.

See how windows from local companies compare:
Slider Windows in Winnipeg
Casement Windows In Winnipeg

Besides the difference in how the two window types function, there is also a significant difference in the performance (and price) of these windows. Casement and awning crank windows are significantly more efficient than slider windows, and as a result, cost more.

The big difference maker in casement windows are compression seals that line the edge of the frame that meets the moving sash. In slider windows, these edges are usually lined with fiber weather stripping. In casement windows compression seals evenly fill the gap between sash and frame to make the window airtight and eliminate any drafts. This, in turn, results in much higher efficiency and more comfort for the homeowner. Of course, this also means crank windows cost more.

Regardless of the window type, if you really want to get the value for the windows you are getting, make sure that the product you buy is ENERGY STAR rated. This will not only ensure that windows are built tough for the cold Manitoba climate, it usually also means that they are manufactured to international standards, and actually meet the requirements they claim on paper.

You can find information on ENERGY STAR rated window companies on this Natural Resources Canada Website.

Conclusion

The type of installation and the kind of window you get are two major factors that influence the price of your replacement. When it comes to replacing your windows, what’s more important is not necessarily how much you spend, but rather that you know exactly what you are spending your money on. Bad window companies often try to pass retrofit installations as full-frame or sell windows without labels, or worse yet with wrong labels. Be certain that you know a company’s product is quality, and that the installation they perform will maximize the efficiency of your home.