Robertson Windows vs Canadian Choice: Comparison Review

Robertson Windows vs Canadian Choice Review

Robertson Windows, with their Vinyltek products, and Canadian Choice with their DraftLock range stand out as two affordable options for door and window companies in BC. Robertson Windows, teamed with Vinyltek, is known for their innovative, high-quality window options that prioritize energy-efficiency and customer satisfaction. Their lifetime warranty and specialized attention to British Columbia’s unique climate conditions make them a compelling choice for those seeking tailored solutions and long-term investment in their homes. Conversely, Canadian Choice, a nationwide company with extensive corporate experience in the industry offers the DraftLock series. Which provides a solid variety of modern window designs at competitive prices, backed by a 25-year warranty.

Two choices homeowners and business owners in BC could be faced with are:

  1. Robertson Windows, a local specialized, premium door and window installation with energy-efficient Vinyltek products specifically designed for the Canadian elements in BC.
  2. Canadian Choice Windows & Doors, a well-known nationwide cost-conscious alternative with extensive residential experience across Canada.

Here we’ll do a comparison review on the two Canadian companies to help consumers decide on a door and window installation service.

Robertson Windows vs Canadian Choice: Company Comparison

The tilt-and-turn Vinyltek windows installed by Robertson Windows in this commercial project allow for natural light to enter the space, enhancing the elegant ambiance, which is characteristic of the attention to detail and quality that Robertson Windows is known for. Painter’s Lodge, Campbell River, BC.

Robertson Windows has deep roots in the community as a family-operated business with a lineage of expertise in window installation and home building. Founded by Ray Robertson, a veteran in the window trade since 1975, and later joined by his son Ryan, the company boasts over 55 years of combined experience. This duo has been the cornerstone of the company, transforming it into a local byword for meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to perfection. Their hands-on approach goes beyond business, extending to personal projects, which cements their reputation as trusted advisors within their social circles. This foundation of trust and quality is what has allowed Robertson Windows to thrive for 45 years in the Lower Mainland, predominantly through word-of-mouth, a testament to their exceptional service and the lasting impact they leave on their clients.

Canadian Choice Windows & Doors, on the other hand, is more corporate-edged and known for their extensive presence across Canada. They offer a diverse range of DraftLock windows and doors, recognized for their affordability and a strong warranty of 25 years. Their broad reach and commitment to providing quality products at a more accessible price point have made them a go-to choice for many Canadians. They balance traditional values with modern efficiency, aiming to serve a wide array of customers with varying needs and budget considerations.

Let’s compare the two Window and Door Installation companies and how they fare for window and door installations in BC, Canada. We’ll discuss product range, quality, warranty, local expertise, experience, and price.

Product Range: Similar Selection of Window Styles

Robertson Windows and Canadian Choice Windows & Doors both offer similar types of products, casement windows, awning windows, hung tilt windows, bay and bow windows, folding doors, and sliding patio doors. Where both companies differ in product offerings is that Canadian Choice offers exterior steel front door products.

  • Robertson Windows: Offers a comprehensive selection of window styles including casement windows, awning windows, hung tilt windows, as well as bay and bow windows, providing versatility for various architectural designs. Includes folding doors and sliding patio doors in their product range, catering to customers looking to enhance their home’s indoor-outdoor flow and accessibility.
  • Canadian Choice: Provides a similar range of window types as Robertson Windows. Distinguishes itself by offering exterior steel front door products, expanding their range to include secure and durable entry door options for homeowners looking to upgrade their front entrance.

While both companies offer almost the same variety of product types, the functional difference when it comes to window and door installation companies revolves around the product manufacturer, product quality, and the features and designs of the products.

Product Quality: Vinyltek vs DraftLock

Vinyltek, in partnership with Robertson Windows, stands out in the Canadian market for windows and doors with a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and customer-oriented service. Their offerings are at the forefront of the industry, thanks to their commitment to technological advancements in window systems that promote energy-efficiency and durability. Additionally, they promote sustainability initiatives within the industry.

Known for their vinyl window frames, Vinyltek caters to clients with specific, often sophisticated requirements, enhancing the styles and functional appeal of a broad range of properties. Their products, while priced at a premium, are seen as a sound investment because of the long-term benefits they offer in terms of energy savings and material longevity. Vinyltek tilt and turn windows are independently lab-tested for energy-efficiency and are transparent about the results.

In comparison, DraftLock, marketed as being manufactured by Canadian Choice Windows & Doors, claims over 30 years of experience in the industry. DraftLock’s products, as per the provided information, boast advanced features like ASTM-approved acrylic systems, energy-efficient glass units from world-class manufacturers like Cardinal I.G and Guardian Glass, and optional foam insulation for enhanced thermal efficiency. They also focus on using high-quality, eco-friendly materials such as lead-free uPVC, which are UV resistant and durable. The slim contoured design of their products caters to modern preferences. Both Vinyltek and DraftLock products are manufactured in Canada.

  • Robertson Windows: Vinyltek Windows is a well-established company in the industry that has been in operation since 1986. They are known for being one of the first North American companies to manufacture uPVC vinyl windows. They maintain a strong online presence, offering informative resources and frequent updates on their innovations, influenced by European and Spanish designs, such as their Celesta multi-stack patio doors. Vinyltek stands out for its supply of Canadian-made, ENERGY STAR rated windows and doors, utilizing leading window glass technology. Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of high-performance virgin PVC and glass sourced from North America, complemented by industry-leading warranties on their hardware.
  • Canadian Choice Windows & Doors: DraftLock is a product-line up manufactured by Canadian Choice Windows & Doors, a company with over 30 years of experience in the windows and doors industry. Although DraftLock does not have a dedicated website, information on Canadian Choice’s product-line can be found here. DraftLock glass is supplied by world-class suppliers such as Cardinal I.G and Guardian Glass.

Warranty Service: Lifetime vs 25 Years

Both Robertson Windows and Canadian Choice Windows and Doors offer warranties for workmanship, the product itself, replacement windows and doors, and repairs.

Robertson Windows offers customers a lifetime warranty while Canadian Choice Windows and Doors only offers 25 years of warranty service.

Canadian Choice’s lack of a lifetime warranty makes a significant difference for Canadians with families thinking about a long-term investment and the future generations of their household, especially with rising house costs and annual inflation rates. This makes Robertson Windows’ lifetime warranty the lucrative choice when it comes to future-proof window and door repair and installations.

  • Robertson Windows: Lifetime Warranty
  • Canadian Choice Windows & Doors: 25 Years Warranty Service

Local Expertise: Specialized in BC vs Nationwide

Robertson Windows is based in Vancouver, BC, and specifically services BC regions. While Vinyltek Windows, Robertson Windows’ partner and window and door manufacturer is based in Delta, BC.

Comparatively, Canadian Choice is a nationwide company with several branches across Canada including Vancouver and Surrey. According to Northshield, Canadian Choice manufactures their windows and doors in a facility in Ontario.

Because Canadian Choice serves different regions across Canada, the designs of their windows and doors may not be specifically suited for BC’s climate, as the climate of BC and other Canadian climates are different. For example, windows and doors in BC’s coastal areas need to be able to handle damp conditions and prevent mold, while in Ontario, they need to be effective against both hot, humid summers and very cold winters. Energy-efficiency standards and construction practices are often tailored to address these regional climate needs.

  • Robertson Windows: Their work in BC, a region with unique climatic conditions, may give them special insight into the needs of that market, potentially offering products and services that are well-tuned to local requirements. This also means specialized knowledge of the local climate and architecture.
  • Canadian Choice Windows & Doors: Their nationwide presence suggests they have the ability to cater to a wide range of climatic conditions across Canada, however, this means the designs of their windows and doors may not be specifically suited for BC’s climate.

Installation Experience: Residential & Commercial Projects

The sliding mechanism of the Vinyltek sliding windows installed here by Robertson Windows, is a smart choice for hotel rooms, where space-saving is essential. Unlike hinged windows, sliding windows don’t swing outwards or inwards, meaning that the space around the window can be utilized without worrying about the window’s range of motion. Crystal Lodge, Whistler, BC.

Robertson Windows has experience with both residential and commercial projects which is transparently shown in their portfolio gallery. While Canadian Choice Windows & Doors, states in their FAQ that they work on both residential and commercial projects, commercial projects seem to be left out of their portfolio. However, it is clear that both companies have extensive experience in the projects that they undertake with Canadian Choice having more overall experience as a nation-wide corporate company.

  • Robertson Windows: They have a portfolio that includes both commercial buildings and residential projects in BC, demonstrating a broad capability and experience in the industry.
  • Canadian Choice Windows & Doors: While they are known for residential work, they may also have commercial project experience, though this would need to be confirmed through direct inquiry.

Price: Robertson Windows vs Canadian Choice

The pricing of window and door installation can vary significantly based on various factors such as the size, style, custom features, and the specifics of the installation job. For the most accurate pricing, it would be necessary to get a quote from both companies based on your specific needs and the details of your project.

  • Robertson Windows: Vinyltek, offered by Robertson Windows, is positioned in the market as a premium product. They emphasize quality, energy-efficiency, and new advanced features & innovations such as their Celesta folding and sliding patio doors. This level of quality and the inclusion of advanced features typically come with a higher cost.
  • Canadian Choice Windows & Doors: DraftLock, which is associated with Canadian Choice Windows & Doors, appears to target a more price-conscious segment of the market, offering quality products at competitive prices.

However, without a direct quote and without specific details on the types of windows and the scope of the installation project, it’s unreasonable to assume either would end up more expensive than the other. Window and door installation projects are typically based on the specific project, the complexity of the project, and the location or structural modifications necessary.

Robertson Windows vs Canadian Choice: For Windows and Doors in BC 

Robertson Windows partners with Vinyltek to offer high-quality, innovative windows known for their energy-efficiency and durability. They focus on sustainable, technologically advanced windows that appeal to discerning customers looking to enhance their homes both functionally and aesthetically. Their lifetime warranty and customer support demonstrate their commitment to satisfaction and trust. With expertise in British Columbia’s climate, Robertson Windows provides solutions and services that are well-suited to local conditions.

Conversely, Canadian Choice Windows & Doors with their DraftLock range takes a more conventional route. Even with competitive prices and a 25-year warranty, their nationwide offerings might not meet the specific needs of the BC climate as closely as Robertson Windows might. While Canadian Choice could be attractive for those who want to work with a known nationwide company with extensive corporate experience in the industry, Robertson Windows stands out for seeking quality, energy-efficiency, and a long-term investment for window and door repair and installation in BC, Canada.

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In partnership with Vinyltek, Robertson Windows delivers top-tier, energy-efficient windows and doors renowned for their longevity and advanced design. Our focus on sustainable, cutting-edge technology resonates with homeowners who value functionality and design equally. Our lifetime warranty and dedicated customer service underline our commitment to your satisfaction and confidence in our products. Serving residents of British Columbia, we understand its unique temperate climate. As a result, we offer window and door solutions that are not only tailored to your needs but also to the very essence of your local environment.

Reach out today for a free consultation. Robertson Windows is committed to helping you make the best choices for your home improvement needs. @Robertsonwindows