We replaced all 14 windows in our 1940s Swansea detached last summer and I can already feel the difference. Here’s what we decided and why.
The triple vs. double pane debate:
After getting quotes from four companies, we went triple pane on all south and west-facing windows (8 total) and double pane on north-facing windows in secondary rooms (6 total). Reasoning: south/west face the most temperature variation and sun exposure, north-facing rooms in a well-insulated home get less benefit from the third pane.
Cost difference: $65-$95/window premium for triple over double from our supplier (Vinylbilt). On 8 windows that was ~$600 additional — easy decision.
Casement vs. double-hung:
Went casement on all primary windows except the two bedroom windows where we kept double-hung to preserve the original look from the street. Casement seals better when closed and ventilates better when open.
Supplier: Went with a local Etobicoke-based window manufacturer who makes on-site. 10-week lead time. Avoided the big-brand national suppliers after reading too many reviews about service failures.
Installation: 2-day crew, very clean. Foam-in-place for air sealing on every window.
After one winter: Condensation on the glass is gone. That cold-floor-near-windows feeling is gone. Heating bill down about 12% vs. prior year (though hard to isolate windows from other factors).
Happy to share supplier details for anyone in West Toronto looking.