In November of last year, we featured windows as our project of the month –it was so good, we wrote it all down and putit here for you, the listener –If you are thinking about new windows–READ THIS FIRST!
Where to Start
Know your windows! Casement, Double Hung, Slider? Vinyl, Fiberglass or Wood –what it all means, and how to know which is right for yourhome.
Casement: Casement windows are hinged on one side and open either left or right, or with awning style casements, up or down. They are best for areas requiring natural light and ample ventilation.
Double Hung: These windows usually last longer, and with lest maintenance than other types of windows –they are also very easy to clean, as most modern double hung windows are reversible for cleaning.
Slider: These windows slide side to side, rather than up and down like the double hung. They are great for wider areas, and can often be made 3 or more panels wide.
Vinyl vs. Fiberglass vs. Wood
The principal advantage of vinyl is its affordability. It costs 10-30% less than fiberglass and often 50% or more less than high end wood windows.
It is also very energy efficient and can be fabricated to fit any size opening. The finish stays true for many years, but the color options are pretty limited.
Not all fiberglass windows are created equal –so be careful here. Well made vinyl windows are substantially better than poorly constructed fiberglass windows.
That said, there are advances in fiberglass compositesthat open up a range of features you just can't get with vinyl, without sacrificing the energy efficiency.
The new fiberglass composites are strong – much stronger than vinyl and come in a wide variety of colors and finished – some even resembling natural wood. They have smaller frames with a lower profile, so can be a great choice to maximize the view.
Wood windows posses a classic charm that is hard to resist, but once you see theprice tag, you may be convinced. Other than being more expensive than both vinyl and fiberglass, wood windows can be a great choice, and are often considered high end for their design adaptability and energy efficient properties.
Most wood windows are wood on the inside and wrapped in aluminum on the outside to cut down on maintenance, but they will still require more maintenance over their lifespan than the other two materials. Wood windows are a good choice for historical or very high end homes.
When choosing windows, it is important that you can see all different types in full size, fully functional. That's why we always recommend visiting a showroom. Make sure they have operational displays of the options you are considering, and don't be afraid to talk with the salespeople –they are very knowledgeable about the products and may have suggestions you haven't thought of.
Time to meet the contractors
OK – you have decided on the types of windows you want, now it is time to get the quotes. Schedulemeetings with 2-4 window replacement companies, and make sure you are prepared to combat high pressure sales. Don't let anyonestay more than an hour, or pressure you to make a decision, and make sure to ask these 3 questions.
1. Do you have your own crew, or do you subcontract –there is nothing wrong with subcontractors, but it is information they should willingly share, and be honest about. Beware of a company that badmouths one practice or another.
2. Is there a specific brand you use or recommend? Why?
3. Will you finish the trim to match my existing trim, or will I have to do that myself?
Also, keep in mind –be open to suggestions,but ask them to separate out any ideas or solutions that don't exactly match your other bids.This will help you get an apples to apples comparison when deciding who to hire.
Measure, Order & Installation
Once you have made a choice and hired your contractor, it's time for measuring! Even if they have measured at the estimate, they should come back to take a final set of measurements to fabricate your windows from.
Window production times vary wildly, so you should expect to wait between 2 weeks –5 monthsfor windows to come in. Plan accordingly!Once your windows are ordered, they CANNOT be changed –so don't get any great ideas after the final measure! Since lead times can be so long, it is often tempting to try an alter –but this leads to huge costs and delays, so try to avoid it.
Installation day – finally! Most window projects can be done in under a week. To prepare for install, move furniture and other items you want to protect away from the work areas (under the windows!) On the outside, make sure there is a plan in place to protect any landscaping that may be in the project area. Touch base regularly with the crew leader, or your sales rep to make sure the job is on track, and there are no questions or miscommunications. Before you sign off and makethe final payment, make sure you are satisfied not only with the installation, but with the cleanup.
Have the company rep walk you through the warranty and issue resolution process before they leave. Whew! All done! Sit back and enjoy that great new view!
