Why Upgrading Windows Is Essential for Maximizing Renovation ROI

Home renovation spending in Canada has doubled since 2019, with nearly half of Canadians investing in upgrades to improve their houses.

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Among these, energy-efficient windows stand out as smart investments that align with environmental goals and long-term cost savings.

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Just like you, homeowners across Canada are rethinking the way they approach renovations, focusing on energy efficiency⁠, comfort, and long-term value.

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Replacing outdated windows and exterior doors is one of the most effective and budget-smart ways to boost property value and enhance overall home performance.

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In this post, we’ll walk you through the ROI potential of new windows, why they matter to today’s homebuyers, and how much homeowners can save by making these smart upgrades.

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Why Replacing Old Windows Good for ROI

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The return on investment for windows upgrades varies depending on the project, budget, and market conditions, but certain improvements consistently deliver strong results.

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According to the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) Home Value Estimator, window replacements rank among the top home renovations for ROI, offering approximately 70% on resale.

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Here’s how that stacks up with other common upgrades:

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• Window & door replacement – 70% ROI

• Landscaping - (50%0 ROI)

• Basement – 70% ROI

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For example, if you bought a home in Edmonton for 400,000 in January of 2017.

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And you want to invest $8,500 in windows renovation for your home.

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Your investment instantly increases the value of your home by 1.19%. This is in addition to the compounded annual growth of your investment.

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What makes windows and doors particularly appealing is their affordability compared to high-cost renovations:

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• High-end kitchen reno typically cost you between $35,000 to $50,000

• Bathroom reno would cost you within the range of $38,000 to $51,000

• Whereas high-quality windows are affordable, and would cost you between $7,500 to $12,000

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Even with modest budgets, homeowners can enjoy major value boosts through window upgrades, especially when combined with federal and provincial rebates.

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‍Programs like the Canada Greener Homes Loan offers interest-free financing to help with energy-efficient renovations, including window and door replacements.

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Homeowners in places like Edmonton, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba can access even more localized incentives, making energy-efficient upgrades not only impactful but highly affordable.

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Here is how government incentives and your investment add up

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Let’s break down a practical example.

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Say a homeowner in Edmonton bought a property in 2019 for $500,000. By 2025, the estimated home value might rise to around $650,000.

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Now, if this homeowner invests $9,000 into replacing their windows, here’s how the math could look with a 70% ROI:

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Estimated Current Home Value + (70% x Renovation Cost) = ARV

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$650,000 + (0.7 x $9,000) = $656,300

This results in a value boost of $6,300.

Now subtract the possible rebates from the federal program, let’s say $2,000, and the actual investment becomes:

$9,000 – $2,000 = $7,000

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That means the homeowner only invested $700 net to gain more than $6,000 in resale value and that’s not even counting yearly energy savings.

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How Energy-Efficient Windows Add Long-Term Value to Homes

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Windows might not be as flashy as granite countertops or walk-in showers, but they’re deal-makers for many buyers.  

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Here's why:

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• Energy efficiency: Today’s buyers are concerned about utility bills. ENERGY STAR®-rated windows and insulated entry doors reduce heat loss, drafts, and long-term energy costs.

• Noise reduction: Triple-pane and laminated glass options significantly reduce outside noise, especially valuable in urban and suburban environments.

• First impressions: Curb appeal starts with the entry door and front-facing windows. Modern, well-fitted units give the home a polished look buyers love.

• Lower energy bills: Swapping single-pane windows for ENERGY STAR®-certified options can slash heating and cooling costs by up to 12%.

• Long-term comfort: Better insulation means fewer drafts, more consistent room temperatures, and increased indoor comfort year-round.

• Rebate opportunities: Combine upgrades with grants like the Canada Greener Homes Grant, Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate, and Efficiency Manitoba, among others.

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Summary

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When it comes to home renovations, windows might not always be top-of-mind, but they should be. This is because windows upgrades offer excellent ROI, improve comfort and curb appeal, and make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

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Plus, with the availability of energy-efficiency rebates across Canada, the real cost of these renovations can be significantly reduced.

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Book your free consultation today and let us help you increase your home’s value with style, comfort, and efficiency that lasts.

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