Vinyl Window Replacements

Basement windows often sit close to the ground and must handle moisture, insulation, and limited wall height. If your basement includes (or may include) a bedroom, building code requires an egress window – a window large enough to allow safe exit in an emergency. Choosing the right style is essential for safety, legality, and comfort.

Egress Requirements (What Homeowners Need to Know)

If your basement has a bedroom, at least one window must meet egress requirements. While local codes can vary, most follow these minimum standards:

• Minimum clear opening area: 5.7 sq ft (5.0 sq ft if at ground level)
• Minimum opening height: 24 inches
• Minimum opening width: 20 inches
• Maximum sill height: 44 inches from the floor
• Must open from the inside without keys or tools

Our team will always confirm local code requirements during planning to ensure your basement windows are fully compliant.

Recommended window styles:

• Casement Windows: One of the best options for basement egress. Casements open fully, making it easier to meet required opening sizes while offering excellent ventilation and energy efficiency.
• Sliding Windows: A strong choice for wider basement openings. Sliding windows can be sized to meet egress requirements and work well where vertical wall space is limited.
• Awning Windows: Ideal for basements where egress is not required. Their horizontal shape fits shorter openings and allows ventilation while helping keep rain out.
• Picture Windows: Best used in basements where ventilation and egress are not needed. Picture windows maximize light and energy efficiency, but cannot be used as egress windows.

Bathrooms generate humidity. Your window needs to vent moisture, protect privacy, and resist condensation – all while letting in natural light.

Recommended window styles:

• Awning Windows: The most popular bathroom choice. They can be left open in light rain, provide steady airflow, and maintain privacy when paired with frosted or privacy glass.
• Casement Windows: Excellent for ventilation and energy efficiency. Best suited for larger bathrooms where privacy isn’t compromised when the window is open.
• Sliding Windows: A practical replacement option where space or budget is a concern. Easy to operate and improved with upgrades like Low-E coatings to reduce condensation.

Kitchen windows should be easy to use, allow ventilation for cooking heat and odours, and bring in natural light – often from hard-to-reach spots like above the sink.

Recommended window styles:

• Sliding Windows: Perfect above sinks and counters. They’re easy to open, low maintenance, and don’t interfere with interior or exterior space.
• Casement Windows: Ideal when maximum airflow is needed. Casements open fully and are very energy efficient, making them great for busy kitchens.
• Awning Windows: A smart option when ventilation is needed year-round. They allow airflow even during rain and pair well with fixed windows for added light.
• Picture or Bay Windows: Best for larger kitchens where light and visual impact matter. These styles brighten the space and create a more open, inviting feel.

Bedrooms should feel calm, comfortable, and well-ventilated. Windows here need to balance natural light, privacy, insulation, and safety, including egress requirements.

Recommended window styles:

• Casement Windows: Excellent for airflow and energy efficiency. Easy to open and commonly used to meet egress requirements in bedrooms.
• Double-Hung Windows: A classic option that allows flexible ventilation from the top or bottom, making them ideal for privacy and airflow control.
• Awning Windows: Often placed higher on the wall for privacy. They provide ventilation without sacrificing security or weather protection.
• Bay Windows: A great way to add character, light, and a sense of space — especially in smaller bedrooms.

Living rooms typically feature the largest windows in the home. The goal is to maximize light and views while keeping energy efficiency and comfort in check.

Recommended window styles:

• Picture Windows: Perfect for unobstructed views and natural light. Their fixed design makes them extremely energy efficient.
• Casement Windows: Often paired with picture windows to add ventilation without disrupting the view.
• Bay or Bow Windows: Ideal for creating architectural interest, extra interior space, and a dramatic focal point at the front of the home.
• Combination Windows: Mixing fixed and operable units gives you the best balance of light, airflow, and energy performance.

Dining rooms are about atmosphere. Windows should enhance light, views, and style while fitting the overall design of your home.

Recommended window styles:

• Picture Windows: A popular choice for dining rooms with great views. They flood the space with natural light and create a clean, elegant look.
• Casement Windows: Ideal when you want to open the room up for airflow during gatherings while keeping a clear, unobstructed view.
• Bay and Bow Windows: Perfect for creating a bright, open dining area with added depth and architectural appeal. These styles also work well with custom grilles and frame colours.