Door and Window Renovations

The process of selecting a door and window contractor can be daunting, but here are a few factors to consider: 

• Where the materials come from. A contract should source high-quality windows and doors, along with the materials for installing them, from reputable suppliers. Ideally, these suppliers should be local as their products are most likely to have been built specifically for the Canadian climate. 
• Installation process. A professional contractor will set up a home visit to examine your windows or doors. They should be able to explain everything from what the actual install process entails to the type of materials needed (including technical tidbits like energy efficiency and glazing) to the expected time frame. A pro will also make it clear that no mess will be left behind and will ensure that your old windows and doors are properly disposed of at the end of the project. 
• Credibility. You need to find a contractor you can trust and who has a reputation for doing quality work with door and window replacements — and is insured to do it. Every contractor that joins Smart Reno undergoes our verification process, which includes ensuring they have valid insurance. We also monitor ratings and reviews of their past projects and remove any contractor that does not meet our standards.

Read more about the specific questions to ask a contractor before starting a renovation, as well as the five key criteria Smart Reno requires all of our contractors to meet.

When it comes to a window and door installation project, you have the option to take the DIY route or hire a professional contractor. At Smart Reno, we believe going with a pro is the best solution for several reasons. Not only do professional contractors possess the high-level expertise and deep industry knowledge about things like mechanical patterns and styles needed for your specific type of residence, they’ll also factor in the style of your home and your household needs. 

Further, a window and door contractor will have the necessary tools, equipment, and reputable suppliers to source the materials to get the job done right and often, more quickly. They’ll also know the ins and outs about setting safety measures to ensure a successful installation while reducing the impact on your household. 

Finally, most qualified, accredited, professional contractors — like the ones you’ll find with Smart Reno — will provide some guarantee on the installation in the form of a warranty. That way, you can have peace of mind that the work was done right the first time around, and that you’re protected if anything goes wrong. 

Replacing a standard window will usually cost between $500 and $600. Using more economical PVC frames will keep costs down, but installing new hardwood frames or built-in window seats will increase your costs. This price range assumes you’re installing a retrofit window in an existing opening. Widening the opening or adding a new one will increase the cost of your project.

The cost of door replacement varies based on the style and location. Specialty and exterior doors will cost more to replace than interior doors.

Your contractor may offer a reduced rate per window if you replace multiple windows at once. If you have the funds, it can ultimately save you money to complete all your window replacements in a single contract.

Adding a window to a wall involves creating an opening, which is more expensive than replacing a window in an existing opening. Before adding new windows, consider replacing existing windows with options that still increase the quality and quantity of light coming in without altering exterior walls.

New windows can increase the value of your home by improving the exterior’s aesthetic appeal and bringing more natural light into the interior. More light in your living space attracts home buyers and encourages realtors to list at a higher price.