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by: Gus George |
You think that you may be in the market of replacing your old windows but you’re not exactly sure as to how to go about it. Who to call?, questions to ask?, and types of products?. You ask yourself why do home owners change their windows?.
The Better Homes and Gardens Consumer Panel conducted a national survey for
The Most Important Reason For Purchasing Windows.
1- 37.3 % Old Windows Deteriorated
2- 35.9 % Energy Savings
3- 15.7 % New Additions
4- 8.5 % Improved Home Appearance
5- 2.6 % No Answer.
So whatever your reason may be on replacing your windows now you have to start by calling a company you feel comfortable with. Visiting shows or dealer showrooms can be a great plus, or ask for recommendations from friends or neighbours. You should research the history of the company and make sure that you are dealing with a reputable one. You should ask the representative to tell you a bit about the company that they are working for. There are different organizations that a well established company should be members of such as B.B.B. (Better Business Bureau), S.A.W.D.A.C. (Siding and Window Dealers Association of Canada) - Window Wise, C.W.D.M.A. (Canadian Window and Door Manufacturers Association) which has developed a voluntary certification program for windows and patio doors. This program is the most comprehensive verification process avail able. Ask the representative if the company is bonded, and if they carry an efficient amount of liability insurance.
In the same survey they list The Important Factor In Selecting Windows.
1- 36.6 % Energy Savings
2- 17.0 % Brand Reputation
3- 15.7 % Price
4- 8.5 % Appearance
5- 8.5 % Previous Experience
6- 7.8 % Installer Recommendation
7- 5.9 % Other.
Energy Savings is the most important factor in selecting your windows. Because new windows are meant to last for years, the decision you make in the selection of your windows can help define energy efficiency and comfort levels in the home for years to come.
High performance windows are a must for your investment, offering significant improvements in solar control, thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Manufacturer?s do this by incorporating low-E coatings, inert gas fills and better edge spacer and frames. Price may not always be the determining factor. The cheapest window you find may not perform at the level you want. So make sure you fully understand the true value of your purchase, and don?t let price dictate your final decision.
There are a wide variety of windows available on the market that can make the task of selecting the appropriate windows confusing. There are two basic types of windows, those that open and those that don?t, they?re called operable and fixed. There are also windows that tilt in; this allows you to clean the outside of your window from inside your home. Bay and Bow windows are also very popular in todays homes. You should be advised by the window representative as to what type of window style is best for your home, both in practicality and aesthetics.
Warranties are a large part of your window investment. Your new window warranty is only as good as the manufacturer behind it. Dealing with well known brands is a good idea. Make sure that you get your warranty in writing from the dealer you purchase from.
Finally let?s not forget about the installation. When you are buying new windows you are also purchasing the workmanship that comes with it. Ask the representative about the installation and the types of materials that are used for the job, such as insulation and interior trims. This is crucial as to how well the window will perform. Ask about the clean up after the installation and what kind of labor warranty is given.
So replacing your old windows is not that difficult after all. Whatever your reason may be it will definitely be a sound investment as long as you....do your homework.