How to Select the Right Window Material for Your Climate

Thinking of replacing or installing new windows? Choosing the right material is a big deal. It affects your home’s comfort, your energy bills, and how much maintenance you’ll need to do.

In a city like Toronto, that choice becomes even more important. We get freezing winters, hot humid summers, and everything in between. Your windows need to handle all of it and last for years.

Let’s break it down so you can make a smart choice for your home and climate.

Why Toronto’s Climate Affects Your Window Choice

Toronto has four very different seasons. That means your windows need to:

• Keep out the cold in winter
• Handle summer humidity
• Stand up to snow, rain, and ice
• Resist expansion and contraction as temperatures change

Some materials just don’t perform well in these conditions. Others are made for it.

What to Look for in Window Materials

Here are the key things you should think about when comparing materials:

1. Energy Efficiency

Good windows keep the cold out in winter and the heat out in summer. The better the insulation, the more comfortable your home will be and the lower your energy bills.

2. Durability

Toronto weather can be tough on windows. The material needs to last through years of freeze-thaw cycles, storms, and sun exposure.

3. Moisture Resistance

Humidity, rain, and snow can cause wood to rot or metal to rust. Some materials handle moisture better than others.

4. Maintenance

Ask yourself: How much time do you want to spend repainting or resealing your windows? Some materials are almost maintenance-free.

5. Appearance

Some people love the look of real wood. Others prefer a clean, modern finish. Aesthetics matter, especially for curb appeal.

6. Cost

Budget matters — but don’t forget to factor in long-term savings on energy and maintenance

A Look at the Most Common Window Materials

Let’s go through the pros and cons of each option, especially how they hold up in Toronto’s climate.

Vinyl Windows

Best for: Affordability, energy savings, low maintenance

• Excellent insulation. Keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
• Moisture-resistant. Doesn’t rot or swell.
• Maintenance is simple. Just clean them once in a while.
• More affordable than other materials.
• Lasts 20-30 years with little upkeep.

At Delco Windows and Doors, our vinyl windows are designed for Toronto weather. We use Cardinal I.G. glass and LowE/Argon gas for top energy performance.

Vinyl is the most popular choice here for good reason; it handles our climate well and saves money on energy.

Fiberglass Windows

Best for: Long lifespan, energy performance, strength

• Stronger than vinyl. Less likely to warp or crack.
• Great insulation. Performs well in extreme heat or cold.
• Handles moisture with ease.
• Low maintenance. You can paint them or leave them as is.
• Can last 40-50 years.

They cost more upfront but are a smart long-term investment.

Fiberglass is ideal if you plan to stay in your home long-term and want windows that can handle anything the weather throws at them.

Wood Windows

Best for: Classic look, older or heritage homes

• Natural insulation is very good.
• Beautiful appearance, especially for traditional homes.
• Needs regular upkeep — painting, sealing, etc.
• Vulnerable to moisture. Can rot, swell, or warp.
• Lifespan depends heavily on maintenance;  20-30 years or more.

Wood windows can work here, but they need constant care. Be ready to maintain them, especially with all the humidity and temperature swings.

Aluminum Windows

Best for: Commercial buildings or ultra-modern designs

• Very strong, even with narrow frames.
• Doesn’t warp or rot.
• Not a good insulator. Without a thermal break, they lose a lot of heat.
• Can sweat (condensation) in cold weather.
• May drive up heating costs in winter.

Not the best option for homes. But when thermally improved, aluminum windows perform well in our winters.

Composite Windows

Best for: A mix of wood’s looks and vinyl’s performance

• Excellent insulation.
• Resists moisture and warping.
• Low maintenance.
• Looks more like wood but performs like vinyl or fiberglass.
• Mid-to-high price point.

Great for homeowners who want the look of wood but without all the upkeep.

How Glass Choices Make a Big Difference

No matter what frame you choose, the glass matters too. To get the best energy efficiency in Toronto, look for:

• Low-E glass reflects heat back into your home in winter
• Argon gas fills the space between panes to reduce heat transfer
• Double or triple glazing:  more panes = better insulation and noise reduction

At Delco, we offer all these options and help you match the right glass to the material and direction your windows face.

What Do Most Toronto Homeowners Choose?

Here’s what we’ve seen over the years:

• Vinyl windows are the top choice for value and efficiency.
• Fiberglass is gaining popularity with homeowners looking for durability.
• Wood is chosen for aesthetics in character homes, but it needs upkeep.
• Composite is great for those wanting performance and looks in one.

When you work with Delco, we help you balance your needs, your budget, and your home’s style to choose the best fit.

Quick Comparison Table

Final Tips Before You Decide

• Think long-term. Pay a bit more now to save more later.
• Match your choice to your lifestyle. If you’re not into maintenance, avoid wood.
• Ask about Energy Star certification. It’s a good sign that the windows are right for our climate.
• Work with a local expert. They know what works here and what doesn’t.

Need Help Choosing?

At Delco Windows and Doors, we’ve been helping Toronto homeowners for over 35 years. We manufacture, install, and stand behind our products, so you get high-quality windows built for our weather, installed by real experts.

Book a free consultation and let’s talk about the right windows for your home.