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Thinking about replacing your windows or patio doors?

Southgate Glass is here to help. You may be finding many options as you research what’s out there. We have gathered information about the entire process in one place with a step-by-step walkthrough. Begin by learning what is important to consider as you start your project. Call or come down to our Carmichael Showroom where we have 4,000 square feet of windows on display.

5 Must Know Things about Buying Replacement Windows

By Brian Kiernan

1. Type of Material

Window manufacturing technology has greatly improved in recent years and now more than ever there are many choices in the type of material your windows can be made of. The most common replacement windows constructed above 100% vinyl, but, there are several other options. There are wood windows with an exterior cladding of vinyl or aluminum and just recently you can get replacement windows constructed of fiberglass which are a composite of fiberglass and sawdust. Each of these windows has their own pros and cons be sure to research which type of window material is best for you and your needs.

2. Energy Efficiency

The energy efficiency of your replacement window is a large factor on how much you can save on your heating and cooling bills. At minimum you want your window to have an Energy Star rating on it; this will help to maximize your energy savings. Also a window with an Energy Star rating will qualify for tax rebates ask your accountant for what rebates the government is offering at this time.

3. Warranty Information

Every window manufacturer should offer a warranty on its product and if they don’t do not buy them. At minimum you should get a 20 year warranty on the glass of the window meaning that if you get a stress crack or a seal failure in the glass it should be replaced at no charge. Secondly you should get some sort of warranty on the construction of the window 10 years is pretty standard. This covers things like locks, the balance system, basically anything else pertaining to the window that is not glass. Finally some window manufacturers offer any accident warranty, typically about five years, meaning that if you accidentally break the window it is covered. An accident warranty is not a standard feature but it’s a nice one and is worth asking to see if it is offered.

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4. Who Is Installing the Windows

Obviously if you are installing the Windows yourself you do not need to read this paragraph. You see sometimes when we are shopping for replacement windows we get so engrossed in the actual window that we overlook this very important aspect of your replacement window project. You should ask your replacement window salesman a few basic questions about who is installing your windows. Questions like all are your installers are hourly employees or subcontractors? Do you drug test and background check employees when you hire them? How experienced are your installers? Now I know a salesman can lie to you, but see how they answer the question their body language are they searching for an answer these are keys that may tell you he is being deceptive.

5. Does Your Quote Include Everything

This may sound like a silly question but it’s worth asking and what do I mean by this. You see when you install replacement windows with storm windows, for example, when they remove the old storm windows the blind stop behind the storm window is left exposed after the new replacement window is installed. This piece of wood needs to be painted if you have wood siding or covered with aluminum if you have vinyl siding with aluminum clad trim around your windows. This is just one example but there are many different small things that may need to be done to complete the project after the replace the window is installed i.e. minor aluminum work on the exterior or minor touch up paint on the interior.

Replacing Windows & Doors