Given that this is titled “Five More Window Buying Mistakes” there is, in fact, a predecessor to this which you can find here. When you decide to buy windows it can be a big investment and you really just have one shot at getting it right. Here are five more mistakes people make when buying windows so you can avoid them.
Houston Window Experts offers over a dozen different brands of windows for you to see and experience to help you make the best decision for your new window upgrade. If you don’t live in the Houston area, we may also know a great window expert in your area. Check out Jeffslist.com for the most updated list of great window dealers and installers close to you.
The first mistake: Finding the cheapest windows available
Going for cheap isn’t always the best approach to new windows. You are likely looking for new windows to replace bad windows. Don’t replace a lousy window with a bad window; you are better off keeping the ones you have.
Consider the price of the windows, the quality of the windows, the best installation, and customer service when buying windows. It will make your window buying experience successful.
Secondly: Don’t go for gold
People tend to think that if a product is expensive, it must be better. There are window companies out there who over-inflate their price so they can imply value and lure you in by offering huge discounts. Be sure to invest in quality and value, not necessarily the cheapest or most costly. Doing your due diligence, researching the windows you need, and the best installation will save you so much in the long run.
Watch out for number three: Improper installation
The goal for replacement windows will be to last up to 30 years. There are two components to a great project: 1.) great quality windows, 2.) a great installer. Find who will be installing your windows, sub-contractors, or employees. How are they controlling quality? What caulking, foam, and flashing (if any) are they using? It’s important to find these things out and insist on the best.
Number four: The no-name game
Some window manufacturers will label their window with your branding if you buy enough every year. There are quite a few large, national, window contractors who take advantage of these programs. Then they come and show you this “private label window” and you search for it online and they keep coming up as the only place that you can get it. The truth is, it’s available at a lot of different places but it’s got a different name at each one. If you stick to brand-name windows, you get an apples-to-apples comparison of the actual window.
Lastly: Don’t fall in love with the window; fall in love with your window company
Consider whether the window company you have chosen has workers comp insurance or liability insurance to help protect you if someone gets hurt on your job. Who will be removing and reinstalling your window blinds/treatments? Will you the homeowner, be moving your furniture or the window installer? Does the installer have a supervisor that can help with issues or warranties?
There are so many things to consider for your window project. Here at Houston Window Experts, we hope these tips have helped you become more educated about what to look for in your next window installation project.
Quick Recap:
- Don’t go cheap
- Don’t go broke
- Focus on proper installation
- Avoid no-name or orphan windows
- Do your homework
If you’re in the Houston area, we’d love the chance to make your window installation dreams a reality. If you live somewhere else in the country, check out Jeffslist.com for a great window company near you.
