4 Consumer Tips When Replacing Windows in Your Home

There are a number of reasons to replace the windows in your home, including home security, establishing a more energy-efficient home, to repair broken windows, or to enhance the look and feel of your home while improving property value. When doing your due diligence in reviewing replacement options and specialty companies in your area, there are industry tips and tricks that will help you get the best quality product and installation at the best price for your replacement windows.

1. Cost Includes Both Product and Installation - When meeting with different companies for your in-home estimate, know that pricing is broken out for both the products themselves as well as installation. When reviewing estimates, look at both breakdowns of the bids and ask questions if needed for clarification.
2. Comparing and Choosing a Company - When evaluating companies, it is generally best to find those accredited with the local Better Business Bureau and that has an A or A+ rating. You will likely also get the best price when working with a company that manufacturer their own windows and completes the installation, effectively removing the middleman and any associated price increase. Ensure that each company offers a free or complimentary in-home consultation, as there is no need to pay even a modest fee for this initial fact-finding service. Reviewing and checking previously satisfied customers and their testimonials is an important step in the selection process too.
3. Review Rebates and Incentives - Replacement windows is one of only a few upgrades you can make to your home that qualifies in many circumstances with either local, state or federal rebates and incentives. Select window products that are Energy Star partners will also offer rebates, as will your local gas and electric company. Do some initial fact finding and research to identify what kinds of extra rebates you would be entitled to so that you can properly budget your replacement window project.
4. Identify Installation Turnaround - Oftentimes vendors will tell you it will take three weeks to replace your windows, and sometimes longer if they do not have the product in stock and need to order from their manufacturer. This is another reason to seek out a company that both manufacturers here in the United States and installs their windows, to help shorten wait time and get the best price possible.

Replacement the majority of your home windows can be a large project, but by doing your homework on different products, companies, and rebates or incentives available, you will be able to make an educated decision resulting in the best price, installation and product possible.

9 Steps in Choosing the Right Replacement Window Company for Your Home

With Americans going on fewer vacations and moving less frequently, families are choosing to improve the one place they spend the most time - their home. An upgraded and well decorated home gives warmth and individuality to each family, and replacing your home windows with upgraded and more energy efficient windows will not only save on home energy costs, but will also give your rooms improved crystal clear views while also improving your home value.
The following 9 steps will help you find the perfect window company to help make the right decision the first time.

1. Identify in advance which windows in your home that you want replaced. Understand if you want some or all windows replaced.
2. Consider your preliminary budget, which is another major consideration. Figure out how much you are willing to spend and work a plan to find replacement windows around that budget.
3. Determine the specific desired window style, which could include horizontal sliding windows, single or double hung windows, picture windows, wood clad windows, or ones with an architectural element to make truly interesting. Consider security features and locking mechanisms if the windows are for the first floor of your home.
4. Get multiple quotes. Before signing any contracts, now is the time to call a variety of companies, preferably accredited by the local Better Business Bureau, and get information on their products, installation timeframes, guarantee, and price quote. Oftentimes you can find companies through local directories too.
5. Consider energy-efficiency options. Discuss with your design consultant options to get energy efficient windows, which also typically carry a rebate incentive that can help with the investment. Consider windows with a low-e window coating or gas filled windows.
6. Do not forget to ask each company interviewed for references. Speaking with past customers gives objective insight to their experience, service received, price and if they encountered any problems or issues with that company.
7. Select your vendor. After contacting references, evaluating the pros of each company product and installation, and your budget, make a firm decision on a replacement window company.
8. Sign a contract. Be sure to read carefully the company contract that you are signing to ensure you agree with all the terms and conditions of the sale and installation. Also be sure to get any guarantees in writing as well as a copy of your contract to ensure agreement in price.
9. Ensure that the company completing work is licensed, bonded, and insured. If needed, ask to see a copy of the insurance to ensure you are protected before any contractor steps foot in your home and to make sure you are protected.