Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions on replacement Energy Star windows or customized doors? Verdun Windows and Doors is here to answer them all.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about windows, doors, warranties, service, installation, maintenance, and more. We welcome your questions if they are not answered here.

General Questions
In-Home Consultation
Installation of Windows and Doors
About Our Windows
About Verdun Windows and Doors
Greener Homes Initiative

General Questions

Can replacing my old windows/doors save me money on heating and cooling costs?

Yes. High quality replacement windows/doors, properly sealed and installed, can have a significant impact on your heating and cooling costs. According to the latest National Research Council of Canada report, replacing all the windows and doors in your house by high energy efficiency products can reduce your energy bill by up to 16% . For an average home with 150$ energy bill per month and an annual increase of 7.5% in energy cost in the last 10 years , the saving equals 12,000$ over 20 years.

The windows and doors in my home are more than 25 years old. How do they compare with new products on the market?

Today’s high-performance windows and doors are far more energy-efficient than products built 25 years ago. Today’s products are more airtight, with advanced technology such as low-emissivity (low-E) glass, inert gas between the panes and better-designed hardware .

Will energy-efficient windows and doors make my home more comfortable?

The short answer is yes – depending on the condition of your existing windows and doors. They can reduce or eliminate uncomfortable drafts, allow you to have a higher indoor humidity during the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer .

How can I be sure I am purchasing an energy-efficient product?

Look for the Energy Star^® symbol and label. It indicates that a window or door has been certified to meet strict technical requirements that make it one of the most energy-efficient products on the market .

What is Energy Star^® and why is it important?

You should only buy windows or doors that are Energy Star^® certified. Energy Star^® is a program administered by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) where manufacturers submit their products to be tested and certified as Energy Star^® compliant. Typically, an Energy Star^® certified product is in the top 15 to 30 percent of its class for energy performance. Saving energy saves you money and reduces your impact on the environment. For more information on the program and testing methods please visit this website: http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/products/energystar/12519 .

Why is vinyl a good choice for my window?

Vinyl is by far the most popular type of window because of it’s energy efficiency, durability, cost and because it is virtually maintenance-free. Many companies use high quality virgin powder vinyl that is resistant to moisture and will never crack, peel, fade or need to be re-painted or stained.

Why is steel a good choice for my main entry door?

Most older doors are primarily wood construction. Today, the most popular entry doors in Canada are steel construction doors. Steel is highly durable and won’t crack, warp or come apart and steel doors provide the highest level of protection from severe storm damage including heavy winds, rain and flying debris. If security and durability are top priorities for your home’s entryway, a steel door is your best choice. A steel door is far stronger than either fiberglass or wood. Steel provides unmatched protection from burglary and forced entry. Steel doors are also very cost-effective to manufacture and offer significant cost advantages over wood and fibreglass doors.

What type of window frame construction is the most energy efficient?

A vinyl frame with a solid-core mPVC construction and fusion-welded corners is the most energy efficient windows available according to Energy Star ratings. A wider frame (i.e. 4 1/2 inches versus 3 1/4 inches) is also better because it provides more strength and allows the glass unit to sit closer to the inside wall, increasing the energy efficiency of the window. Finally, on windows with multiple panels, a one-piece frame will provide you with more visibility and less air leakage than a window that consists of multiple panels that are glued or screwed together.

How do I know if my windows need to be replaced?

To determine if your windows are functioning properly you should look for the following:

Is there moisture, condensation or fog between your panes of glass. This usually indicates a seal failure?
Are there areas on your carpet or furniture that are faded because of the suns ultraviolet rays? This is an indication that your windows need Low E glass to block the sun’s harmful rays.
Do you have the properly rated windows for your climate? Windows in the colder Canadian climates required higher ER rating to increase their Energy Efficiency.
Poor operation. Are you having difficulties opening or closing your windows?
Rotting and pealing around your window frame may indicate it is time for your windows to be replaced.

How do I know if my door needs to be replaced?

To determine if your doors are functioning properly you should look for the following:

Are there drafts or cold air coming in from around your door area?
Poor operation. Are you having difficulties opening or closing your doors?
Rotting and pealing around your door frame may indicate it is time for your doors to be replaced.
Is your main entry door more than 25 years old?

How do I know if my window or door needs replacing or whether it just needs to be repaired?

To know whether a new window or door is needed or a replacement part (glass unit, hardware, etc) is all that is required, contact your local window and door company. Look for a company with a solid reputation that will offer a free in-house estimate and that won’t try to get you to change windows or doors unnecessarily.

What's the difference between replacement windows and new construction windows?

Replacement grade windows and doors are typically higher quality products than New Home Construction (or Contractor) products. The reason is that new home builders and contractors are looking for the cheapest products they can buy to maximize the return on their project and they usually only offer the minimum warranty by law which is 2 years. Most companies offering replacement windows offer a warranty of 15 years or more because their products are better designed, built and installed.

Should I replace all of my windows and doors at the same time?

You can replace windows and doors all at once or over time as your budget allows. The sooner you replace your windows the sooner you will maximize your energy savings.

In-Home Consultation

How long does the in-home consultation last?

Our typical appointment lasts approximately 30 minutes. That includes discussing your needs, taking measurements, answering your questions, discussing options and providing you with a written quote before we leave. Of course, if you have more questions or you need more time for the consultation, we will be there for as long as you need. Watch the video below to learn what to expect during your in-home consultation.

Am I under a time constraint to make a decision on my purchase?

Our quotes are good for 30 days after they are issued and we will never use high-pressure tactics to push you into making your decision. You will not be required to come to a showroom for another appointment. We do not have time-limited deals and we offer the same volume discount to each potential client. Purchasing windows and doors is a big decision and you should never feel pressured to make a decision.

There are so many options available for doors – how do I choose?

There are a wide variety of styles, configurations, colours and options available when choosing doors. Our in-home consultation process is designed to make it as easy as possible for you to make the right choice for your home.

Check out our 2018 Front Door Buyers Guide to help you better understand your options when selecting a new front door.

Installation of Windows and Doors

What do I need to do to prepare my home for the installation?

Here are some things that you’ll need to consider before we arrive:

Someone will need to be home to allow our installers access to your home.
We ask to clear the driveway when possible for our truck to park near the house.
If possible, move furniture away from the windows and doors that are being replaced. If you require help to move anything we will gladly do it but we cannot be held responsible for any damages.
Remove all blinds, shades, curtains and other window treatments from the windows.
Turn off all security alarms.

Will I have a lot of cleaning up to do after the installation?

We install runners and dropcloths on the floor of your home wherever we walk and we clean up carefully at the end of each installation. Although we try our best to keep your home as clean as possible during the installation, we are doing a renovation and opening walls. As such, you may find that your house will require a light cleaning to remove the last bit of dust after the installation.

What will happen to the shutters on the outside of my house?

When necessary, Verdun will remove and re-install shutters. We can also supply you with a quote to replace your shutters in our written estimate.

What happens to the old windows and doors that are being removed?

Verdun takes care of the removal of all of the old windows and doors that have been replaced and all related job debris.

How long does a typical installation take?

Most of our projects are completed within one day, but some jobs can take up to 5 days if there’s a lot of work to do.

Why do you use foam insulation instead of fibreglass insulation?

Our low expansion foam is designed specifically for window and door installations. It expands to fill voids that fibreglass batt insulation may not effectively reach. Unlike fibreglass, foam acts a vapour barrier that seals openings/gaps and reduce leakage. Stuffed into gaps, compressed fibreglass insulation loses its insulating value. It is also susceptible to moisture that penetrates gaps in the form of water vapour or liquid water from rain, snow and condensation. Over time, that moisture can lead to mold growth. In contrast, insulating foam sealant fills gaps with a water-resistant seal. It expands to take the shape of cracks and voids, forming a long-lasting airtight bond to the vinyl, wood, composite and metal surfaces.

Why don’t all window installation companies use foam instead of fibreglass insulation?

Using foam to insulate replacement windows and doors takes more time than fibreglass insulation learning the proper application of foam takes some time to master.

Do you install windows in the winter months?

We install our windows year round. Watch this video below to find out why installing your windows in the winter may be your best option.

Can't I just buy the windows or doors at the hardware store and install them myself?

Installing your own windows or doors is always an option. The products you purchase at a hardware store are typically new home construction grade windows/doors and are generally a lower quality than replacement windows/doors because contractors are typically looking for the cheapest option. You also should consider the benefits of a warranty. We manufacture and install windows and doors backed by an industry leading warranty that covers all labour and parts.

Do I need to replace my windows with the same style of windows?

Not necessarily. Our in-home consultants will be happy to show you options and alternatives that suit the architectural style of your home and that fit within your budget.

What do I do if there's a problem with my new window/door?

If there is ever a problem with one of your windows or doors just give us a call and we’ll come right over to fix the issue. Our warranty covers 100% of both parts and labour, no questions, no hassles, no bull!

About Our Windows

What is Low-e glass?: Low-e (Low-emissivity) coatings have been developed to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through glass without compromising the amount of visible light that is transmitted. Low-e glass has a metallic coating on the inside surface to reflect the sun’s rays and to reduce damaging UV rays. Follow this link to find out more about how low-e glass works. http://educationcenter.ppg.com/glasstopics/how_lowe_works.aspx
What is Argon gas and why is it used in windows?: Argon is an inexpensive, non-toxic, odourless gas that is used in residential windows to insulate the two panes of glass. Argon gas helps to prevent frost from occurring at the bottom of windows and also helps to increase sound proofing characteristics of your window. Argon gas is heavier than air and as such it offers increased R-values and minimizes heat exchange through windows. Argon gas usually improves the u-value by about 10% in a window.
What is U-Value?: U-value is the measure of the rate of heat loss and how well a product insulates. The lower the u-value, the better a product is at keeping heat inside your home.
What is R-Value?: R-Value measure the resistance to heat loss. R-value is used typically to measure the heat resistance value of home installation.
What should I know about your warranty?: That one’s easy… we have the best warranty in the business. No bull, no tricks or hidden clauses, just a complete fully comprehensive warranty that covers all parts and labour. Find out more about Verdun's No-Bull Warranty.

About Verdun Windows and Doors

How long has Verdun been in business?: We are a family owned business that opened our doors in Ottawa in 1982. We started by manufacturing PVC windows under the brand name Nordik Windows and we’ve been installing our windows since 1996 under Verdun Windows and Doors.
Are you listed with the BBB?: Yes, we have an A+ rating with the BBB.
Do you carry Liability and Workers Compensation Insurance?: Yes, we carry full general liability and workers compensation insurance.
How do I check up on Verdun Doors and Windows?: Please check us out on HomeStars.com. We have hundreds of reviews from happy customers.
Do you offer Payment options?: Yes. SNAP Financial is the official finance partner of Verdun Windows and Doors.

Greener Homes Initiative

How much can a homeowner get for retrofits in total?

Up to $5,000 is available as all retrofits under the Canada Greener Homes Grant for all homeowners.
Enbridge Gas customers in Ontario can get up to $10,000 through the HER+ program.
Quebec residents can claim up to $20,000 through the Renoclimat program.

Is the energy audit included in the maximum redeemable amount?

The EnerGuide audit costs extra, but up to $600 extra can be reimbursed from the Canada Greener Homes Grant. That additional $600 doesn’t count towards your maximum grant/rebate amount.

How do I break down the grant amount I can expect to receive?

Windows and door grants are calculated on a rough opening basis. That means that multi-panel/composite windows, or doors with sidelites and transoms, are treated as a single unit per rough opening. For example, your bay window may consist of three or more separate frames, but it is still counted as filling a single rough opening.

In Ontario, up to $325 per rough opening can be redeemed through the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program from Enbridge Gas.

In Quebec, up to $60 per rough opening can be redeemed through the Rénoclimat provincial government program.

Are window and door repairs or alterations covered?

No. Glass-only or sash replacement for windows, or door slab or insert replacement for doors, without a frame replacement, are ineligible for the grant/rebate.

How do I know which products are covered under the grant?

All products must be purchased and manufactured in Canada.

All eligible manufacturers and their products must be registered on the NRCan database and ENERGY STAR rated. All of our windows are registered under manufacturer Nordik Windows.

All Energy Star labels must be kept on the windows and doors until after the final energy audit. Should any labels be misplaced after installation, please contact us for new labels.

I replaced my windows in 2019. Can I still apply for the grant?

Unfortunately, retrofits done before December 2020 are not covered by the Greener Homes Grant.

I replaced my windows recently, but I did not do an energy audit. Can I apply for the grant?

Energy audits, before and after the retrofits, are required for grant/rebate eligibility. If your retrofit has begun but wasn’t pre-evaluated, your renovation isn’t eligible for this grant.

Can I request grant money for new windows and doors if the initial evaluation does not explicitly recommend them?

At least one of the performed retrofits must be recommended by the energy advisor in their report to be eligible. Meaning, if the evaluator doesn't state that a specific retrofit is recommended, you may not receive money under the grant.

What paperwork do I need to keep?

All receipts and documents must be kept from pre- and post-retrofit evaluations, as well as invoices for product and installation for all retrofit work done.

Is it even worth getting my windows or doors replaced?

Windows and doors can also be among the more expensive home upgrades. Still, they qualify for the largest amount of funding. If your windows are leaky, replacing them will be a worthwhile investment anyway, and the grant will cover a significant portion of this expense.

How do I find an energy evaluation company?

Homeowners are responsible for choosing a contractor to perform the EnerGuide home assessment.

Ontario residents are provided with a list of approved evaluators on the HER+ page of the Enbridge Gas website after filling in the interest form.

Quebec residents are provided with a list of approved evaluators on the Rénoclimat website.

We work directly with select NRCan approved evaluators across Ontario and can help you get set up with an appointment in as little as 48 hours. You can also go with an evaluator you prefer as long as they are approved by and registered with NRCan.

Please note, we are not financially associated with energy advisers, nor do we benefit financially from this relationship. Customers are not obligated to use the services of the advisers we refer them to for their EnerGuide energy audit, and we make no representations or warranties with respect to their services and your eligibility for the above-mentioned grants.