Summertime is a great time to be looking at items around the house that are better suited to be fixed or replaced while the weather is good. Windows are one of those items.

Energy efficiency requirements in the Ontario Building Code coupled with advances in glass-making and glass-coating technologies, have made today’s windows extremely efficient. You can bid drafts and stuffiness farewell plus reap the benefits of increased comfort and lower utility bills.

Various factors contribute to a window’s efficiency.

The U-factor measures its insulation. Basically, the lower the U-factor, the more insulated it is. The U-factor needs to be really high in northern regions, because homeowners need more protection against the harsh outdoor climate. Increased insulation means the  windows won’t be fighting the outside air to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.

The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar radiation passes through the window. Efficient windows will also filter sunlight, which prevents the sun’s rays from fading your furniture, upholstery, wood floors and art.  An important side effect is soundproofing. The thicker the glass, the more sound they’ll block. This can work surprisingly well in homes near an airport or busy traffic areas.

Here are a few of the more popular styles to consider:

Double- and single-hung: This window is made of two independent sashes that are hung in one frame.  In a double hung window, the sash at the bottom and the sash at the top can slide up and down within this frame. In the case of a single-hung window, only one sash will be movable. This style is mostly used in traditional-style homes.

Sliding windows: The sliding or gliding window functions much like a double-hung window. The big difference is that the sash moves horizontally rather than vertically. It’s as if a double-hung were placed on its side. These are ideally used in areas that have horizontal proportions and where you want to maximize the amount of glass for light or a view.

Casement windows: This window is a single sash that’s attached to a frame on one side. Hinges, or a hinge, are used as the attachment, allowing the window to swing out like a door. These are popular in both traditional and contemporary homes.

Awning windows: Sharing many of the design considerations of a casement, this style is suited to both traditional and contemporary designs. They are typically horizontal, which maximizes the light or view and makes them appropriate for placing over a counter or vanity or above or below a fixed window. The single sash and glass are all in one plane, the screen is located on the interior and the hardware is an important design element. Unlike the casement, though, an awning window can be open when it’s raining. Because an awning pivots up and out, the sash effectively creates a mini awning that prevents the rain from coming through the window opening.

In addition to these factors, if you’re replacing or adding windows as part of a larger remodelling project or planning the construction of a new home, consideration should be given to location, size, type, style, function, operation, material, interior and exterior finish, hardware and assembly.

It can seem overwhelming, but this is where your builder, renovator or window and door expert should help you to work through the choices and determine the best combination for your specific needs and preferences. Working with professionals, will also ensure there are warranties on the windows and on their work.

Taking a few extra minutes to plan is always the best advice.

Sue Wastell is the president of the London Home Builders' Association and Owner of Wastell Homes in London.