subject: What Type Of Replacement Windows Do You Need? [print this page] These days, people are becoming more concerned with how efficiently their homes manage energy, and are taking steps to modify their homes in ways that can save time and money for many years to come. The federal government has also admitted that in these unstable economic times, improving home efficiency can be one of the best ways for homeowners to stimulate the economy and also keep their out of pocket costs down.
One of the most common places for homes to leak valuable energy is through the windows, and if you're considering replacements, here are some important things you should know. Although there are many different companies and brands popping up now that replacement windows have become a popular home improvement item, it's important not to just choose the first brand that seems like a good deal.
Advertisements and claims about warranties can be tantalizing, but usually the most dependable brands aren't the ones making the most noise with commercials and big talk. It's important that you consider three simple characteristics: cost, brand and material, as well as your home's individual needs when shopping for window brands. Only make a decision after you've done your research and learned all you can about the manufacturer.
The first question that you should ask yourself when shopping for window is "What type of replacement window do I need?" Maybe cost is more important to you than energy efficiency. Maybe ease of cleaning is more important to you than the materials that are used to make the window. Write down all the things that you're really looking for in a window, and take it with you when you're talking to home improvement contractors. That way, you'll resist getting sucked into a window that you don't need, even if the salesman makes it sound really good.
One thing that commercials and advertisements can help you take advantage of is free in-home estimates from window contractors. Start with three local window replacement companies, and ask them if they can come out to your home and provide you with a written estimate. Ask them about how the price will change depending on the brand of window they offer. Never let them intimidate you into buying their windows just because they came out to give you an estimate. Let them know that you're comparing their costs with other companies, but never tell them the other quotes you've received. As the buyer, you're in control of the decision and the sale.
