Windows & Doors Winnipeg: All Weather vs. Polar Windows [2024 update]
Feb 19, 2016
Mar 28, 2024
6 min read
1431
Whether you are looking to replace your windows and doors in Winnipeg, or really anywhere else, there is one universal truth about getting new windows: the success of your replacement entirely depends on the company you decide to go with. Sure, everyone can write a check and hope for the best, but how do you know that you’re actually paying for a good product and proper installation?
How to Choose a Reliable Window Replacement Company in Winnipeg?
- The longevity of your window replacement depends on two things: the quality of the new windows, and correct installation. The company you decide on should be able to provide both in order for your replacement to be successful.
- There are two types of window installation: full-frame replacement and retrofit (insert). A retrofit installation is only suitable if your existing frames show no signs of moisture or weather damage. The type of installation they specialize in, often also determines the performance level of the windows that a company sells.
- In order to make sure windows are efficient in your area, you should only consider companies that have ENERGY STAR rated windows for your climate zone.
Today we will take a look at two of the bigger window companies in Winnipeg: All Weather Windows and Polar Windows. Both of these companies are very popular in the city, and chances are, if you are planning a window replacement this year, you will end up getting a quote from one or both of these companies. So let’s check them out and see which one works best for your window replacement project.
All Weather Windows Winnipeg
- Homestars: 8.8
- BBB: Accredited
About
All Weather Windows is one of the biggest window companies in all of Canada. All Weather has been in business since 1978. This window company has two manufacturing facilities with a head office in Edmonton and works in most provinces in the country.
Product
All Weather specialises in aluminum clad PVC and full vinyl windows. They also manufacture and supply entry, garden, and patio doors. The company also offers their own installation services. Unlike dealing with a supplier, going with a full-service approach company is often better for any potential warranty service you may need. Because everything is done in-house this kind of companies are usually more committed to resolving installation related problems than companies that just supply the product.
Certifications
- CSA certified and Energy Star rated
- Window Wise and Installation Masters Certification for installers
- Best of Homestars ’10, ’11, ’12
Warranty
All Weather Windows and Doors offers a 20-year comprehensive transferable warranty on their sealed units and a 5-year warranty on installation labour. You can find their full warranty package information in this guide.
All Weather Windows Reviews
As we mentioned above, All Weather Windows is one of the biggest window companies in Canada. When you go to bigger companies you can usually trust that their product and installation will be of good quality. These kinds of companies will also usually have all the necessary paperwork and certification to back up their legitimacy.
Where a lot of big window companies struggle across the country, is in the quality of their post-installation service. The internet review boards are filled with complaints about the lack of urgency when it comes to getting service from All Weather Windows. Because big window manufacturers have a higher volume of sales they also generally have a longer backlog of service requests to be processed. Take this into account when considering All Weather Windows.
Company | Window Warranty |
Google Rating |
BBB Accreditation | Reviews |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ecoline Windows Edmonton | 25-year on product & labour | Accredited | Check Reviews | |
All Weather Windows | 20 years | Accredited | Check Reviews | |
Jeld-Wen | 20 years |
NOT Accredited |
Check Reviews | |
Polar Windows | 10 years |
NOT Accredited |
Check Reviews |
Polar Windows
- Homestars: 6.4
- BBB: NOT Accredited
About
Polar Windows, former Ray-O-Max Windows, has been on the Canadian Market since 1976. The company currently services Winnipeg, Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon and surrounding areas. Although Polar is one of the bigger window manufacturers in Western Canada, they have their own sales representatives, and work directly with customers.
Product
Polar Windows and Doors prides itself on their own patented technology energy efficient windows. The company carries all standard window types in over 18 different colours. For the pickiest homeowners, the window company offers window manufacturing plant tours so you can see the product and workmanship firsthand.
Certifications
- Energy Star-rated
- CSA-certified
Warranty
Polar is among window companies that offer a lifetime warranty on their frame, sash, and glass components. They define their lifetime warranty transferable for as long as the original purchaser owns the building in which the product was installed. If the owner changes, Polar Windows warranty will be valid for the next 10 years.
Polar Windows Reviews
Polar has a mediocre rating on HomeStars and no BBB accreditation. The negative reviews are mostly about miscommunications and lack of follow up regarding the order or service from their head office. Many customers also mentioned they were given the run-around by the company once the installation was complete and company’s representatives were difficult to reach.
Recent negative reviews also bring into question the quality of product and how the company performs installations. Pay special attention if you’re interested in getting doors from Polar as several customers in the last few years, mentioned issues with this product.
Which window company is right for you?
Both of these companies specialise in and do similar work. They both specialize in vinyl windows, so you should definitely consider them if you decided to go the PVC route. Based on customer experiences All Weather seems to have a better product and more trustworthy installation and workmanship overall. However, a big downside to All Weather Windows is the slowness of their service. Considering your new windows are warranted for 20 years, you don’t want to have to wait close to a year, every time something goes wrong, or you need service.
F.A.Q.
Is Polar Windows closed?
No, the company still operates in Winnipeg and continue selling and installing energy-efficient windows for local homeowners.
What are Winnipeg homeowners’ preferred window brands?
There are a lot of great window companies to go with when considering installing new windows in Winnipeg, such as All Weather Windows, Ecoline Windows Winnipeg and many others.
Are All Weather Windows good?
All Weather Windows sells and installs energy-efficient windows and doors, having a proven track record of successfully completed projects and happy homeowners. Moreover, their 20-year warranty and responsive customer service are signs of a reliable company.