What to Look For When Buying Replacement Windows
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Replacement windows can cost more than a brand-new SUV. As a first-time window buyer, asking the right questions can help ensure you select the best products and services for your needs. Here, we'll guide you through essential questions to ask when considering window replacement installation, drawing on insights from Chris and Becca, the owners of Window Source DFW.
Key takeaways
- Vinyl windows are widely considered the best value, costing between $450 to $600 per window installed. They’re durable and energy efficient.
- Ensure both manufacturer and installer warranties are comprehensive, covering defects and installation issues, to protect your replacement windows.
- Verify if permits are required for new windows in your area and ensure your contractor is licensed to avoid legal complications.
- Evaluate window features, energy efficiency ratings, and customer testimonials to choose windows that enhance your home's comfort and value over the long term.
What kind of windows to get for your replacement
Windows come in various quality levels, typically categorized as entry-level, mid-range, and premium. According to Chris from Window Source DFW, "You have kind of an entry-level. So it's kind of a good, better, best model out there if you will. So an entry-level window will be one that typically lasts 7 to 10 years. Then we'll need to be replaced again because it's gonna fail." While entry-level windows may be less expensive initially, they nearly always cost more over time when you factor in replacement costs.
Window replacement cost for a variety of windows:
- Vinyl Windows: These are popular due to their affordability, durability, and energy efficiency. Chris notes, "A vinyl window is the best value for most homeowners." Vinyl windows typically last 20-40 years if maintained properly. They generally cost between $450 to $600 per window installed.
- Aluminum Windows: Known for their strength and lightweight properties, aluminum windows are less energy-efficient and may last around 10-15 years. They are usually cheaper, costing between $350 to $500 per window installed, but provide worse insulation compared to other materials.
- Wood Windows: Offering a classic look, wood windows require regular maintenance but can last upwards of 30 years or more with proper care. They are on the higher end of the cost spectrum, ranging from $800 to $1,200 per window installed.
- Composite Windows: Made from a blend of materials, these windows are designed to offer the benefits of both vinyl and wood, lasting about 30-40 years. Composite windows generally cost between $700 to $850 per window installed.
- Fiberglass Windows: Known for their strength and durability, fiberglass windows offer excellent insulation properties and can last 20-40 years with minimal maintenance. They typically cost between $750 to $1,100 per window installed. Fiberglass windows are a premium option that combines longevity with energy efficiency, making them a popular choice among homeowners seeking durable and high-performance windows.
Terminology - Single Hung Window vs. Double Hung Window
These terms come up a lot, they just refer to whether you can open one sash (i.e. the bottom) or both sashes.
Single-hung windows are the most common window installation and typically cost less.
Upper floors may have a “picture window” which refers to a window that has no moveable parts.
Energy Efficiency
Frame materials are only one part of an efficient window. The other key element for an energy-efficient window is considerations like a single pane, double pane, or triple pane window.
Most modern windows are double-pane windows and are typically filled with an inert gas like argon. Premium windows may even be triple-paned to provide further resistance to heat transfer.
Why energy-efficient windows would be considered
Old windows, especially single-pane and aluminum windows, transfer heat very easily. Newer double-pane window options can directly reduce your energy consumption during the summer and winter months. A replacement window (or set of windows) can often pay for itself within 6-12 months depending on what your energy consumption was before.
How to interview your window company
You can't put a band-aid on a broken bone. Even the most efficient windows won't stop heat transfer if they're installed poorly with lots of air leaks and gaps.
That's why it's so important to find a reputable company to install your windows. Here are the 2 key areas to ask about when you're shopping for window companies.
What Sets Your Windows Apart from Competitors?
With numerous options available, it's beneficial to know what makes one window product stand out from another. Ask about the unique features and benefits of the windows you're considering. This could include energy efficiency ratings, material quality, and additional functionalities.
Can You Provide References or Customer Testimonials?
Hearing from other customers about their experiences can provide valuable insights. Request references or testimonials to understand the level of satisfaction among previous clients. Positive feedback can reinforce your confidence in the product and service quality.
Installation Process and Costs
Are Permits and Licensing Required?
“There's 6 or 7 communities or cities in our Dallas Fort Worth area that require a permit. For example, Dallas does not [require a permit for windows] If it's like-kind.”
Like-kind: A term typically used in restoration or historic building districts. Indicates the installation replaces an existing material with something structurally equivalent.
Ensure your contractor is licensed and pulls necessary permits. Installation crew members should be supervised on the installation day. Always confirm that your installer handles these requirements to avoid complications later.
What Is the Installation Process Like?
After you order your windows there's typically a 4-12 week wait depending on the manufacturer. Each frame is built based on the window company's measurements, so each is essentially a custom window for your house. Once the windows arrive, the company will remove the old windows and install the new ones.
A single-story house with under 15 windows could be finished in a single day, while two-story homes with lots of windows could take several days to fully complete.
A professional and efficient installation ensures that your windows perform correctly and last longer.
How Much Will the Installation Cost?
Installation often makes up 50% of the total costs of window replacement. Chris candidly notes, "It gets expensive. Everybody knows it is." While high-quality windows and professional installation can be a significant expense, they are also an investment in the long-term value and comfort of your home.
Window Warranties and Guarantees
What Kind of Warranty Do Your Windows Come With?
Warranties are a crucial aspect to consider when purchasing new windows. There are typically two types of warranties to be aware of: the manufacturer's warranty and the installer's warranty.
- Manufacturer's Warranty: This covers defects in the window materials and workmanship. A strong manufacturer's warranty indicates that the company stands behind its product, ensuring that any defects or issues with the window itself will be addressed without additional cost to you.
- Installer's Warranty: This warranty is provided by the window company and covers the installation process as well as some window repairs. Even the best windows can fail if not installed correctly. A reputable installer will offer a warranty on their work, ensuring that any issues resulting from the installation process are covered. Chris mentions, "Our frames also have a lifetime [warranty] on cracking, fading, and peeling." Be sure to ask about the duration and specifics of the installer's warranty, as this can vary between companies.
Understanding both types of warranties ensures that you are fully protected both in terms of the quality of the windows and the quality of the installation.
What Voids a Window Warranty?
Every warranty has exceptions and uncovered events. Using Pella, or Andersen Windows as an example, some common factors that could void a warranty include:
- Improper Installation: If the windows are not installed according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions, the warranty may be voided.
- Unauthorized Repairs: Using non-authorized repair services, such as a handyman can invalidate a warranty because off-brand parts, or not following installer specs can make future repair impossible.
- Lack of Maintenance: Failing to perform necessary maintenance can lead to voided warranty claims. The good news is that most windows don't require significant maintenance outside of cleaning.
- Environmental Factors: Damage caused by environmental conditions, such as extreme weather, is almost never covered by a manufacturer's warranty.
Most of these exceptions make sense to a reasonable homeowner. However, sometimes manufacturers can add non-traditional terms to their warranty like pro-rated replacements that will require you to come out of pocket for repairs.
How Long Should a New Window Last?
When investing in windows, longevity is a critical factor. Chris explains, "A good quality window like what we sell, it's meant to last 20 plus years." Opting for higher-quality windows can save you money and hassle in the long run, as you won't need to replace them as frequently. Quality windows are designed to withstand wear and tear, maintaining their functionality and appearance for decades.
Final Thoughts
Investing in new windows is a significant decision that impacts your home's aesthetic, comfort, and energy efficiency. By asking the right questions about window quality, warranties, installation processes, and costs, you can make an informed choice that meets your needs and budget. Remember, opting for high-quality windows and professional installation may have a higher upfront cost but will pay off in longevity and performance, as Chris from Window Source DFW highlights: "A good quality window like what we sell, it's meant to last 20 plus years."
Taking the time to research and ask these crucial questions will help ensure that your window replacement project is a success, providing you with beautiful, durable windows that enhance your home's value and comfort for many years to come.
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