Replacing your windows is not something that you are likely to do too often, so when you finally decide to go ahead with a window replacement project, you should definitely make sure to get everything right. You may ask: How can I possibly do this when I don’t know a thing about window replacement and installation? If you find yourself in a bit of a bind, worry no more! This post shares with you the various factors that matter when it comes to ensuring a successful window replacement.
Why Some Installations Never Deliver: Factors You Should Never Miss
No two window replacement or installation projects are exactly the same, but they do have a few things in common. If you miss out on any one of these important factors, your replacement project will more or less be doomed to fail.
Window Type, Material, and Features
Windows may seem to offer practically the same features and may even look similar, but they are bound to differ in a number of ways. Primarily, windows will vary according to type or according to operation. Double-hung, casement, and sliding are some of the most commonly installed window types found in US homes. You can also get bay and bow, picture, and awning windows, or you may even opt for custom or specialty windows. All offer different benefits, so you need to choose which suits you and your home’s style best.
After you’ve chosen which type of window or windows you wish to install, you need to narrow down your material options, based on the features that matter to you the most. For framing, consider beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance. This may seem like a tall order, but thanks to today’s technology, it is not impossible to get all these desirable features in just one product. A good example is Fibrex®, the composite frame material from Renewal by Andersen.
Meanwhile, it also makes most sense to go with low-emissivity, double-pane glazing with a gas fill and high-quality seals and spacers. When combined with good framing, well-chosen window glass can give you excellent energy efficiency values.
What it all boils down to is choosing the window type that meets your preferences in terms of both operation and aesthetics, and purchasing the right product from the right manufacturer.
Manufacturer, Contractor, and Installation
Since I mentioned choosing the right manufacturer earlier, let me stress further why its important that you get your new window from an established manufacturer. For one thing, you can be assured of high-quality products when you purchase from a trusted window maker. How do I know? Don’t take my word for it – the warranty that comes with the product will speak volumes for its quality.
Prominent window companies – those that have been in the industry for decades – have developed excellent manufacturing technologies and techniques that are designed to constantly improve existing products. As a result, these companies have the confidence to back their claims of product quality with solid warranties.
In addition, such manufacturers work hard to safeguard their reputations by seeing to it that their dealers and installers follow stringent sales, service, and installation guidelines and processes.
This leads us to another important factor, the contractor. When you have decided where to get your new windows from, the next step is to find a window contractor who is certified and trained by the product’s manufacturer to install the product. This way, you can be assured of proper installation – one that carefully follows an efficient and proven process.
Window replacement and installation is not meant to be a stressful project. While there may seem to be a lot to consider, you can simplify the process by doing business with the right people. Keep your eyes on the goal by going with a company that can give you access to the right products and provide you with quality service.
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Author Bio:
Dan Hedman is General Manager of Renewal by Andersen of Austin. He has more than 20 years of experience in the home improvement industry, working with some of the top names in the business. He has been commended several times over for successfully managing the company’s sales team and focusing on the quality of the customer experience. Dan has been married for 22 years and has three daughters. To get updates from Dan and his company, follow http://www.rbaofaustin.com/blog/.
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