Home Window Buying Checklist

Nov 14 2018 Posted By Ontario Window Reviews

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Home Window Buying Checklist

When you’re in the market for new windows, you may be under the impression that you will only need to consider the different features, types, styles, and the benefits that each would provide you. While these factors are certainly worth considering and will play a major role in your decision, there are other factors at play when it comes to smart window shopping and buying decisions. Smart window shopping is beyond deciding which window you want, but about who you are going to trust with a major home improvement project such as the installation of brand new windows.

This blog will detail and explain how you can be a smart window shopper when you are in the market for new windows, but a general guideline is as follows: your new windows, no matter the quality, will only perform as good as they are installed and the warranty is only as good as the company providing it.

Often times, finding the best company to replace your windows can be as difficult as buying a new vehicle. However, rest assured that this decision making will only need to be done one to two times, as high quality windows that are installed the way they are supposed to will last for decades. Before calling the first window replacement company that you find on the internet, consider these key tips when doing your research.

Ensure You Get A Free Estimate

When you are looking to replace your windows, you should not have to pay anything upfront to get all the information you need. A reliable and trustworthy window and door replacement company will stand by their work, putting in time and resources by equipping you with the right knowledge before you make a decision. They should at the very least be able to provide you with a free quote or estimate, and not just give you ball park numbers. The quote should be specific and tailored to your home, which will often require a visit to your home in order to give you a realistic figure for what you should be expecting to pay for the materials and installation.

One Day Installation

No matter what season you are doing your window replacement project, your home will be exposed to the outside elements whether it be in the heat of summer or the frigid winter. Because of this, it is important to find a company who can complete the project in one day. It is definitely not an ideal situation to have gaping holes in your home overnight where your windows are supposed to be installed or have to incur additional costs for your family to stay elsewhere.

With this said, it is important to understand that like any installation project, especially for older homes, it is likely that installers may come across unforeseen issues once the old windows are removed. This includes rotting in the frame, sizing issues, or mold. These issues may require installers to take more time as the problems need to be troubleshooted and solved. However, experienced installers will be equipped with the right knowledge and tools in order to solve and overcome any obstacle that comes their way.

Energy Efficiency

When homeowners are considering the replacement of their windows, an improvement in energy efficiency as well as home aesthetics are usually at the top of the list. With the cost of energy usage constantly on the rise, almost everyone loves to see savings on their energy bills. Replacing the windows in your home is just one effective way to improve how well your home retains heat and keeps outside air from coming in. Not only will this keep your home warmer in the winter, it will also keep it cooler in the summer.

Security Features

Getting a good deal on your windows is often a positive thing, but there are other factors for homeowners to consider outside of appearance and functionality. One of the most important features that you should look out for is the safety and security that your new windows will provide for your home. Because there are so many window designs made from different materials, you will want to ensure that you select a style that fits your day to day preferences while also providing an appropriate level of security for your home. When your window has simple, uncomplicated locking mechanisms, they tend to last longer and provide higher levels of security. This is because simple locking mechanisms often have fewer moving parts, leaving less chance for parts to break or become unusable.

Self Cleaning Features

When you are shopping for different types of windows, it is important to be informed on all types of windows. Did you know that self-cleaning windows exist? Yes, there are windows that are self-cleaning! They are a great option to save costs on professional cleaning services and saves you the hassle of cleaning them yourself. Self-cleaning windows are coated and will keep themselves clean while also providing you with better insulation!

Window Replacement “Season”

When you are in contact with a window and door replacement company that you may hire for the job, move on if they tell you that they can only install windows in optimal weather conditions (such as the warm months of summer). Experienced window and door replacement companies know how to navigate around weather concerns and are properly equipped with the right tools and training to get the job done at any time of the year.

Make Sure You Do Your Research

Before you seal the deal, get 4 to 5 quotes from a variety of window and door companies to make sure you are making the appropriate decision. It does not hurt to know what options are available to you, and being well researched beforehand is always beneficial. Although this will take additional time, it is definitely time worth spending as opposed to choosing the wrong company.

A Final Note…

With all these tips in mind, there is one last thing that we need to mention: window and door replacements are definitely not a DIY project! Unless you are an experienced windows and door installer by profession, you should not be doing this project on your own.

It is no secret that replacement windows are quite an investment, so make sure you protect your home improvement project by hiring a team of professionals to get the job done quickly, efficiently, and most importantly, safely. You definitely will not regret hiring professionals, especially when it comes to an intricate task such as window and door replacements. However, you can rest assured that once the job is complete, your home will not only look great, but also feel great, have added security benefits, and save you money on your energy bills.

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