Bryan Baeumler, Replacement Windows & Doors Expert
Bryan Baeumler, born on April 18, 1974, is a renowned Canadian television personality known for hosting various shows on HGTV/HGTV Canada. His background as a skilled handyman and savvy businessman has paved the way for a successful career in television, where he specializes in home renovations across Canada and hotel refurbishments in the Bahamas. Additionally, Baeumler is recognized for his expertise in replacement windows and doors. His contributions to television have earned him a prestigious Gemini Award for hosting. Beyond TV, he has also shared his extensive knowledge of home renovations through a published book.
Latest Posts Reviewed:
Across Canada, from icy prairies to coastal rain belts, homeowners are discovering that high-performance windows are becoming an increasingly important part of sustainable home design. They don’t just let in light; they manage energy, shape indoor climate, and define how efficiently a house can truly perform.
Yet, here’s the surprising truth: even in new construction, many so-called “energy-efficient” homes still can lose a significant portion of heat through outdated window systems, particularly in colder regions. That’s why architects, engineers, and homeowners alike are rethinking what a window can do.
This …
Imagine standing by your window on a January morning in Toronto — the snow is piling up outside, yet your living room stays hot. Or picture a blazing July afternoon in Vancouver, when sunlight streams in but the air indoors remains refreshingly cool. What makes that comfort possible? The answer often lies in the invisible technology built into your glass.
In Canada’s demanding climate, windows do far more than provide a view. They’re a critical part of your home’s energy performance, influencing heating costs, comfort, and even resale value. Over …
You can’t see it, but you can feel it. That faint chill near your entryway is often a sign of heat loss — something many Canadian homeowners experience during winter. Across Canada, poorly sealed or outdated doors can be a significant source of heat loss in many Canadian homes. And yet, many homeowners still choose doors based solely on appearance, ignoring the numbers that truly matter: R-value, U-factor, and ENERGY STAR® certification .
Here’s the truth: in a climate that can swing from humid summers to −40°C winters, your exterior …
When it comes to home energy efficiency and year-round comfort, windows play a much bigger role than most homeowners realize. But what happens when the terms used to describe them — double-glazed and double-pane — sound almost identical?
At first glance, these two phrases may seem interchangeable. After all, both refer to windows with two layers of glass and a sealed space in between. But look closer, and you’ll discover key differences in regional terminology, performance options, and energy efficiency standards — especially in a climate as demanding as Canada’s. …
You’ve probably heard terms like double-pane, thermal pane, and thermopane used interchangeably — even by contractors. But did you know that not all double-pane windows are thermal-pane windows?
While both offer more insulation than outdated single-pane glass , thermal pane windows take energy efficiency a step further — using gas fills, Low-E coatings, and advanced sealing methods designed to perform reliably in cold winters.
If you’re comparing window replacement options or new construction, understanding the technical, thermal, and cost differences between the two is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break …
Key Takeaways
- Fibreglass doors offer high insulation (R-5 to R-6) and resist warping or swelling.
- Steel doors offer excellent security and moderate insulation, but may feel colder than doors made from other materials.
- Wood doors are less suitable for harsh climates unless paired with a storm door or treated with advanced weather-resistant materials.
- Material performance varies significantly due to thermal expansion, moisture absorption, and insulation efficiency.
What are the best materials for front doors in extreme Canadian winters?
Canadian winters bring extended periods of subzero temperatures, strong wind chills, and …
Buying a home is one of the most critical financial decisions Canadians make, and a thorough home inspection is your best tool for protecting that investment. A modern inspection goes far beyond a quick visual review — it evaluates the home as a complete system, covering structure, mechanical systems, safety devices, energy efficiency, and long-term durability.
Here’s what Canadian homebuyers should know upfront:
- A comprehensive inspection assesses the foundation, roof, exterior cladding, windows, doors, and drainage to detect structural or water-related issues.
- Interior systems — including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, insulation, …
What Are English Cottage-Style Windows?
English cottage-style windows are gaining popularity in Canada as homeowners seek to bring classic heritage charm into modern, energy-efficient homes. These windows are defined by balanced sash proportions, distinctive grille patterns, and a handcrafted aesthetic that immediately sets them apart from standard contemporary designs.
Here’s what homeowners should know upfront:
- English cottage-style windows typically feature a smaller upper sash and a larger lower sash, creating the iconic 40/60 ratio.
- Grilles are essential, with four-over-one, six-over-one, and multi-light patterns shaping the traditional cottage look.
- Both sash …
Key Takeaways
- Fixed, picture, clerestory, and transom windows are ideal for high-ceiling homes, offering various benefits in terms of light, airflow, and aesthetics.
- High-ceiling windows can both improve and complicate energy efficiency, depending on the glazing, insulation, and placement.
- Custom window solutions are often necessary for vaulted or tall spaces due to their specific sizing requirements, architectural integration, and performance expectations.
- Selecting the right frame material is crucial for the longevity, efficiency, and aesthetics of windows in tall installations.
- Privacy can be maintained in large window areas with glass treatments, …
Front door trends in 2026 reflect a clear shift among Canadian homeowners toward durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient designs that elevate curb appeal without sacrificing long-term performance. This year, the strongest movement is toward materials and finishes that hold up against Canadian weather while still delivering a clean, modern, and welcoming look.
Here are the key elements driving front door choices in 2026:
- Steel remains the top-performing and most reliable material for Canadian climates.
- Fibreglass continues to gain popularity for its wood-grain realism, energy efficiency, and minimal upkeep.
- Natural, warm, and …