# Ontario Window Replacement: Energy Ratings, Frame Types & 2026 Cost Guide **URL:** \ **Category:** Ontario\ **Created:** [April 26, 2026, 6:16pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ontario-window-replacement-energy-ratings-frame-types-2026-cost-guide/46852 "2026-04-26T18:16:08Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 1\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![system](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/system/32/77_2.png) [@system](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/system)\ **Post date:** [April 26, 2026, 6:16pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ontario-window-replacement-energy-ratings-frame-types-2026-cost-guide/46852/1 "2026-04-26T18:16:08Z")
Window replacement is among the most common home improvements in Ontario. Here is everything you need to know before signing a contract. **Canadian Energy Ratings** Look for ENERGY STAR Canada ER (Energy Rating) numbers. Ontario Climate Zone 2 minimum ER 29. High-performance triple-pane windows reach ER 40-50+. **Frame Materials** Vinyl: Most popular. Low maintenance, $400-$900/window installed. PVC quality varies — buy from Canadian manufacturers. Fibreglass: Better dimensional stability, $700-$1,500/window. Less expansion/contraction than vinyl. Wood: Best aesthetics, requires regular maintenance. Common in heritage homes. **Double vs Triple Pane** Double pane with Low-E argon is standard and cost-effective for most GTA homes. Triple pane ($150-$400 premium per window) is worth it for passive house retrofits or very cold regions. **Installation Costs** Casement/double-hung replacement: $600-$1,200/window. Full-frame replacement: $900-$2,000/window. Bay/bow windows: $2,500-$6,000+. Full home (10-15 windows): $8,000-$20,000. **Permits** Like-for-like replacement usually does not require a permit. Heritage Conservation District properties may need a Heritage Permit for profile changes. Find window contractors and get advice from Ontario homeowners at home.renovation.reviews.