Replacement Windows for Calgary Homes
A window replacement project swaps the old window for a new one that fits the existing opening, or replaces the frame and trim as well when the old frame is rotted or the opening needs to change. Either way, the installation matters as much as the window: a good window that is poorly flashed and sealed still leaks air and water. We measure carefully, order windows to fit, protect your home while we work and flash each window into the wall so water runs out and not in. We also pair windows with new siding when the exterior is being replaced.
- Replacement windows in existing openings
- New frames and trim when needed
- Basement egress windows
- Flashing and sealing done properly
- Interior and exterior trim
- Matching new siding
Glass and Frames
Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows
The numbers on a window label tell you how it performs: the U-factor shows how well it holds heat in, and the solar heat gain coefficient shows how much sun it lets through. Double-pane windows with low-E coatings and argon gas are standard, and triple-pane windows add warmth and sound control at higher cost. Look for ENERGY STAR certified windows rated for our climate. We explain the options and bring samples to your estimate, so you can choose for your budget.
- Low-E coatings and argon fill
- Double and triple pane options
- U-factor and ENERGY STAR ratings
- Samples at your estimate
Vinyl, Fibreglass and More
Window Frame Materials
Vinyl frames are the most common in Calgary because they cost less, do not need painting and insulate well. Fibreglass frames are stronger, can be painted and hold their shape in temperature swings, at a higher price. Wood and aluminum-clad frames suit some older and custom homes. We help you decide based on the look of your house, the budget and the maintenance you are willing to do.
- Vinyl: affordable and low maintenance
- Fibreglass: strong and paintable
- Wood and clad for custom looks
- Colours and grid styles
Where Most Problems Start
Installation, Flashing and Sealing
Most window leaks are installation leaks. We cut back the old window, check the framing and sheathing, repair any rot, flash the sill, jambs and head with membrane and tape, set the window level and plumb, shim it and insulate the gap with low-expansion foam. Then we seal the exterior and finish the trim so the window sheds water properly. Doing this right is what keeps the wall dry for decades.
- Opening checked and repaired
- Sill, jambs and head flashed
- Low-expansion foam insulation
- Exterior sealant and trim
Light and Safety
Egress Windows for Basements
A basement bedroom needs a window big enough to escape through, and the City of Calgary has requirements for its size and sill height. Installing one usually means cutting the concrete foundation wall, building a window well and arranging drainage. We do that work ourselves and request utility locates before digging outside. Egress windows also bring daylight into basement living space. See our basement development page.
- Concrete cut for the opening
- Window well and drainage
- Egress size and sill height to code
- Utility locates before digging
Not Always Replacement
Window Repair, Seals and Hail Damage
Not every problem needs a new window. A fogged glass unit can often be replaced without replacing the frame, a failing seal or weatherstrip can be renewed and a loose or sticking window can be adjusted. Hail can crack glass and dent frames, and the damage may be part of an insurance claim, so we photograph it. We tell you honestly whether a repair or a replacement is the better spend.
- Fogged glass units replaced
- Seals and weatherstripping renewed
- Hail damage documented
- Replacement when repair will not last
The better spend depends on the frame, the glass and the age of the window.
Replace the Window or Repair It?
Repair makes sense when:
Only the glass unit has failed
The frame is sound and straight
The window is fairly new
A seal or hardware piece is the problem
Replacement makes sense when:
The frame is rotted, warped or leaking
Several windows have failed seals
You want better insulation and comfort
The windows are single pane or very old
Planning New Windows? Tell Us About Them
Send the number of windows, their size and a photo, and we will call you back.
What Affects Window Replacement Cost
Number and Size
Larger windows and more windows cost more. Bay and picture windows cost more than standard sliders.
Glass and Frame
Triple pane, fibreglass and special glass cost more than standard double-pane vinyl.
Signs You Need New Windows
Condensation or Frost
Moisture between panes means a failed seal. Heavy condensation inside points to poor insulation.
How a Window Project Goes
Trim and Cleanup
Trim is installed and painted or finished, and we clean up and walk the job with you.
Why Choose Blueprint for Windows
Exterior Specialists
We also do siding, roofing and concrete cutting, so we handle the wall around the window.
Questions About Windows?
Send the size, what it is for and a photo of the area, and we will call you back.
Book a Window Estimate
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement
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Q. How much does window replacement cost in Calgary?
It depends on how many windows, their size, the glass and frame and the installation conditions. We measure and give you a clear quote that lists each window and the work.
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Q. How long does window replacement take?
The installation usually takes a day or two for a typical house once the windows arrive. Made-to-measure windows take several weeks to order.
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Q. Do I need a permit to replace windows?
Replacing a window in the same opening generally does not need a permit, but changing the size of an opening or adding an egress window may. We check your project against the City's requirements.
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Q. What is the best window for Calgary winters?
A well-installed double-pane or triple-pane window with low-E glass, argon fill and a warm-edge spacer in a quality frame. The ENERGY STAR rating for our climate zone is a useful guide.
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Q. Are triple-pane windows worth it?
They improve warmth and sound control and reduce condensation, but cost more. For many homes, a good double-pane window is enough. We show you the difference and the price.
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Q. Why is there condensation between my window panes?
The seal around the glass unit has failed, letting moist air in. The window can often be repaired by replacing the glass unit, but a window with a failed frame or many failed units may need replacing.
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Q. Vinyl or fibreglass windows?
Vinyl is affordable and low maintenance. Fibreglass is stronger and can be painted, at a higher price. Both can perform well if installed properly.
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Q. Can you install windows in winter?
Yes, with care. Each opening is open for a short time, and we protect your home from the cold. Cold weather affects some sealants and foams, so we choose products suited to it. See our vinyl siding page if you are also replacing siding.
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Q. Do you do egress windows?
Yes. We cut the concrete, install the window and build the window well and drainage. We request utility locates before digging outside.
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Q. What size egress window does a basement bedroom need?
The code sets minimum clear opening size and a maximum sill height. We check the requirements for your project and design the opening to meet them.
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Q. Can you replace just one window?
Yes. We replace single windows as well as whole houses. Matching style and colour with the existing windows can be tricky, so we help you choose.
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Q. Will new windows reduce my heating bill?
Usually, yes, especially if you are replacing old single-pane or leaking windows. Savings depend on the home, and air sealing and insulation matter too.
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Q. Do you finish the trim inside and out?
Yes. We install and finish interior and exterior trim and repair the siding or drywall around the opening.
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Q. What if the framing around my window is rotted?
We cut out the rot, repair the framing and sheathing and flash the opening before the new window goes in. Fixing it is part of a proper installation.
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Q. Does hail damage windows?
Hail can crack glass and dent frames and screens. If it has, we photograph the damage and give you an estimate for your claim.
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Q. Should I replace all my windows at once?
It is often better, because the colour, style and installation method match, and the crew is already set up. Replacing in stages can also work if the budget is limited, starting with the worst windows.
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Q. What is the difference between replacement and new-construction windows?
Replacement windows fit into the existing frame or opening, and new-construction windows have a nailing fin and are installed into bare framing. Which one fits depends on whether the old frame and trim can stay.
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Q. Do windows need to be a certain size for a bedroom?
A bedroom window must be big enough to climb out of in an emergency, and the code sets minimum opening size and maximum sill height. Basement bedrooms are the most common place this applies.
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Q. Which areas do you serve?
We replace windows in Calgary and in Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane and Okotoks, and in the areas between.