Buying replacement windows for your home is a process, so asking the right questions to get good answers is vital to making informed decisions.
Depending on who you ask, replacement windows can cost anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
A company offering such services will have subject matter experts to help you get the right windows for your home.
Even so, a window contractor can help you best if you ask the right questions. So that you feel confident moving forward after signing on the dotted line, here are five questions to ask.
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1. Which Kinds of Windows Are Best for My Home?
While there are many types of windows, that doesn’t mean all of them will be the right ones for your home. That’s one reason to work with a window contractor. They can explain the various kinds of windows available — from casement to double hung and from bow to sliding.
You’ll want to spend your hard-earned money wisely when tackling such a project. One way to get your replacement window project off to a good start is to find a reputable window contractor with a verifiable track record.
It’s a good idea to ask the contractor which styles they’d recommend for the various rooms in your home based on factors like ease of cleaning, energy efficiency, and ventilation.
Picking the brains of the experts will help you make informed decisions. Considering the importance of the windows in your home, you’ll want to select wisely.
2. What Material Should I Go With?
Another important consideration is what material you should choose. Wood used to be the go-to window frame material, but it’s not the only material you can pair with your replacement windows. You might want to stick with a classic wood material offering a high-end aesthetic.
However, these days, many owners prefer vinyl. It’s a cost-effective, energy-efficient, low-maintenance option that is available in various colors and styles.
Other material types include fiberglass, which is durable and comes at a higher price point than some frame materials, and aluminum, which can be less energy efficient because it conducts heat and cold but is strong.
Before choosing the material you want, discuss the pros and cons of each with the window contractor you hire. You’ll get the nitty-gritty that helps you avoid buyer’s remorse.
3. What is the Energy Efficiency Rating?
Another question you should ask about any replacement windows you’re considering is the energy efficiency rating.
If you want your home’s interior to be comfortable and to avoid spending more on heating or cooling your home than needed, energy efficiency is key.
Your window contractor will be able to explain the benefits of getting windows with the ENERGY STAR rating, explain the U-factor relating to how well windows insulate, and discuss the solar heat gain coefficient pertaining to how well the windows block heat from the sun.
4. What Does the Warranty Include?
Don’t underestimate the importance of the warranty. You need to know how long the warranty lasts, whether it includes the windows and the installation, if it includes parts and labor, what things could void the warranty, and if the warranty can be transferred should you sell your home.
The goal is to get the best warranty for peace of mind and protection for your windows investment.
5. How Long Will the Project Take?
Request a detailed and itemized quote from a window contractor. You need to find out how long the project will take. While you don’t want the contractor to rush the job, you don’t want them to be as slow as sloths. Ask for a realistic timeline and factor that into your decision-making.
Get answers to these five questions so you can make informed decisions. And remember that hiring the right service provider will make the process less stressful.
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