Four Things You Didn't Know to Ask About Replacement Windows
When it comes to buying replacement windows, most people know just enough to not
look stupid when talking to the replacement window salesperson, but not enough to know what to look for in replacement windows. Most window salesmen will be sure to cover the questions everyone asks, as well as insure you understand the "bells and whistles" of the replacement window they are offering. However, sometimes it is worth peeling back the surface to get some more information about the windows.
Below is a list of four elements of replacement windows that most people don't know to ask about during window discussions. These are meant to help dig deeper into the window's qualities and better understand the replacement window purchase.
1. Service Labor - Many replacement window manufacturers offer some form of a Lifetime Warranty on their windows. Whether it is "Full" "Double" "Limited" etc. the manufacturer will promise to provide any parts required to fix product that fails under warranty. However, the fine print does not always include service labor. This can be very important because one of two things happen: The manufacturer sends the broken part and the homeowner is expected to fix it, or a service tech is sent out with the non chargeable warranty part. Having the tech makes fixing the replacement window easier, but without service labor included in the warranty, the homeowner is expected to pay a service charge. This can range from $50-$85/ hour. Not having the service labor included in the warranty can make it feel liking having to pay for the replacement window twice.
2. Low E Glass Technology - Most people shopping for replacement windows have heard the term Low E and are able to use it in a conversation about the windows. However, what many people don't realize is that there are different variations of low e and different levels of performance. Some low e technology is outdated and does not offer the best energy performance. Others offer great performance, but reduced visible light because the coating is much thicker and darker that other coatings. One does not have to understand the complete science behind low e glass, but it helps to know what level of low e (low e 3, low e 4) is being offered, and which one is going to offer the maximum energy performance along with visible light.
3. Tilt Wash vs. Single Hung - When people are looking at replacement windows, the tilt in sash feature for cleaning many window salesmen show customers looks very appealing. Even though most people will not utilize the cleaning feature after the windows are installed, the idea is appealing. Before selecting the replacement window with the tilt feature, be sure to ask about the pricing and performance of a single hung window. Single hung windows are generally less expensive than double hung, tilt wash windows, and offer similar, if not better energy performance. If window washing was not a priority before, chances are it will not be with the new replacement windows. Instead of paying a premium for tilt in windows, check the pricing on single hungs.
4. Glass Breakage Warranty - Some manufacturers offer a glass breakage warranty on their replacement windows that includes incidental glass breakage. This includes rocks hitting the glass, baseballs, golf balls etc. If the glass breaks, the manufacturer supplies a new one. It is important to check the wording on the warranty to insure it is worth the warranty. Acts of God and Civil Disobedience will most likely be there, but don't let additional exclusions take away from the potency of the warranty. In addition, see the first item above: service labor. Getting new glass for free is great, but paying $100 to have it installed is not so much fun.
There are of course many other factors to consider when choosing windows for your home. However, the best thing that you can do as a consumer is to have as much information as possible. By focusing on the smaller details you can truly start to see the differences available in the different windows that are being considered for the project.
Purchasing replacement windows is not something homeowners do everyday so it is important to understand the details about replacement windows to insure a good buying decision. The four items above will not insure a perfect window purchase, but they allow the consumer to dig a bit deeper and better understand the product they are considering for their replacement window project.
Four Things You Didn't Know to Ask About Replacement Windows
By: Justin M Howe
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