Is this type of window appropriate for my living environment?
You live with windows a long time. You want to make sure you’re choosing the right home replacement windows. Are the windows durable and well constructed? Will they stand up to the wear and tear that is to be expected in your living environment? Do you live in a region — for example, the oceanfront area, with lots of salt spray and humidity — that is particularly tough on homes? How will your home replacement windows stand up to these conditions?
What type of maintenance will these windows require?
Every type of home replacement windows requires some sort of care. First and foremost, you’ll want to think about how easy the home replacement windows are to clean. Cleaning is the most common window maintenance task. Tilt in windows make cleaning a snap. Smooth vinyl exteriors used on vinyl replacement windows simply need to be hosed off occasionally, while trendier rougher surfaced vinyl home replacement window exteriors need more intensive cleaning. Vinyl home replacement windows never require painting. Fiberglass home replacement windows do require occasional painting, especially if the original finish is damaged.
What type of energy saving features do these windows offer?
From triple pane glass to low E coatings, insulating gas pockets to sturdy frame construction, today’s home replacement windows offer a number of features that help homeowners save money. You’ll want to discover what features a window offers and what that will mean to your home. Remember that your realized savings will depend in part on what you’re replacing: if you’re replacing original, single pane leaky windows, you’ll obviously have more room for improvement and subsequent savings than if you’re replacing windows that were installed in the early days of the home replacement window industry, which offer some, if not optimal, efficiency.
Tell me about your company.
I cheated a little bit with this one, for it’s really several questions at once. However, home replacement windows are a substantial investment. You want to be sure that you’re working with professionals who will help you get the most for your money.
Ask your prospective replacement window company how long they’ve been in business. Do they have local contractors they work with? Can you have some names and contact information of satisfied customers? Any reputable dealer will be happy to answer these questions — they too know that the home replacement window industry has been plagued with its share of fly by night companies. Sensible consumers do their research first.
What type of guarantee do these windows come with?
Guarantees and warranties vary wildly from company to company. Request an actual copy of the warranty before you purchase and read it over carefully. Do you understand the terms and conditions? Look out for exclusions — these are items that your warranty does not cover. Does the warranty spell out the procedure to be followed if repairs are needed? If you have any questions or don’t understand the warranty, make sure to ask!