https://old.rosieonthehouse.com/blog/what-to-expect-when-buying-new-windows-doors

What To Expect When Buying New Windows & Doors

22 March 2022

THINGS TO CONSIDER FOR NEW WINDOW AND DOOR INSTALLATIONS

When it comes to buying windows and doors, there are many things you need to consider, ask, and prepare.

Most importantly, you must have a realistic idea of how much new windows and doors cost. Then you can budget appropriately and look at products in your price range. In essence, don't look for a Bentley when your budget allows for a Honda.

Let’s go through the process.

1 | Questions To Ask Yourself

What is your budget? Again, Bentley or Honda?
When do you want them replaced? If you want them before the summer, call for a quote now.
How many windows and doors are you replacing? Depending on your cash flow, timeline, and product availability, you may need to replace them in shifts.
What material and hardware do you want – wood, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass? Choices, choices, choices.
Are you going for a certain aesthetic, or just want to replace what is currently there? Look at today’s trends which may go out of style in a few years vs. what will be a mainstay and increase your home’s value.
Do you want them to be more energy-efficient, soundproof, and/or increase your security? Yes. Yes. And, Yes.

2 | Now Call The Professionals

Rosie on the House Pella Showroom Example Pella, a Rosie-Certified Partner, says a professional window and door company consultant can answer any lingering questions and help you lock in your choices with additional knowledge and a deep understanding of every part of the window and door replacement process. “We cannot overstate the importance of this step," Pella says. “Consult the professionals before you make your final choices. Their vast knowledge may uncover a surprising option that works better than anything on your list, and their initial walk-through of your home will ensure you’re not hit with unfortunate surprises during the installation.”

A professional consultant will come to your home, further discuss your needs, and take measurements of the areas that will be replaced. How long they will be there depends on you. Freelite, Inc., a Rosie-Certified Partner, says they are generally in and out in about 45 minutes. It depends on how many questions you have and how much detail you need. “We’d be happy to stay as long or short as necessary,” they state.

Freelite cautions that you may see ads from other companies offering windows for as low as $189, for example.

“The fact is, that’s a ‘bait and switch’ tactic designed to get their phones to ring,” Freelite says.

If you call a company based on such an offer, you will likely find that their $189 windows are available in one small size and do not have “Low E” coatings, which means they are not energy efficient. Instead, says Freelite, they upsell customers to more expensive windows that are more efficient. Don’t fall for it.

3 | Sleep On It

Don’t make a hurried decision. If you are looking at newer designs, the windows, and doors you are considering likely won’t be discontinued overnight. Sleep on it and then make a final decision, especially if you are on the fence about your purchase.

4 | Pre-Installation

Before the installers arrive on your property, Pella suggests asking these questions:

How long will the installation take? Depending on the number of windows and products being installed, a professional installation usually won't take more than a day.
How might the environment impact the timeline? Most professional window installers will offer the proper gear to protect your home from any weather during your window installation. Knowing your installer is preparing for any weather will give you peace of mind on your installation day.
How will my home be protected (inside and out) during installation? Even if the weather doesn't play a factor in your window installation, you'll want to keep your house and belongings safe. It may be necessary to move furniture indoors or protect areas at the installation site, such as flowerbeds, to prevent damage when the old windows are removed or the new ones are placed.
What can I do to help prepare? Professional window installers are experienced working around home furnishings, but it never hurts to give them more space. Take time to review what items around the rest of your home can impact the installation process. If you have young children or pets, make arrangements to keep them in a safe place away from the worksite.
Do I need to be around during installation? Making sure that installers can enter the house may require you to stay home or be nearby.

A good contractor or window installer should lead you through all the steps of the procedure and keep you informed of the job's status before and during the project.

5 | Installation Time

Rosie on the House Pella Window Installation Upon their arrival, the installers should park in a place that is convenient for you, show their identification, and review the installation plan. Some companies will text you a photo and the name of the lead installer so you know who to expect at your door.

A respectable, courteous, and professional installation team will place protective coverings on your floor and wear booties over their shoes. As the old windows are being carefully removed, they will ensure the work area doesn't interfere with other parts of your home.

Upon installation, the interior and exterior trim and hardware will be added.

The installation team will clean up their work area. The old windows will be hauled away.

They will instruct you on the use and care of your new windows and doors before they leave. At this time ask unanswered questions and confirm your window and door warranties or post-installation service agreements.

Pella notes that coming to the table armed with knowledge, will only serve to move your project along faster and help you communicate effectively with your installation professionals to achieve your desired outcome.

###

Podcast

You may be surprised to know the top reason to replace your home's windows - tune-in and find out! Plus homeowner questions about filtering out salt in water, replacing a older concrete tile roof and the different underlays being used, a sewer type smell from the dishwasher, roof venting and duct cleaning.

Photo Credits:

Pella
Shutterstock