Good windows can add curb appeal and help lower your energy bills. They can also buffer your home from outside noise, giving you a quieter and more peaceful living environment.
Choosing the right window installer for your project is important. The right company will have excellent customer service and a wide selection of quality products.
1. Do Your Research
If you want to get the most bang for your buck from your window replacement project, then you need to do your research. That means comparing window types, deciding what style of windows works best for your home and checking out the energy efficiency of different options.
You should also look into whether or not the company you are dealing with offers fair financing. You don’t want to fall prey to predatory interest rates and end up paying more in the long run.
It’s important to look for a company that focuses on quality windows. Some contractors sell private label windows that are flimsy and not well suited for Houston’s harsh climate. They may also bloat performance numbers to make their windows seem superior.
2. Know What You Want
You may be surprised that not all replacement windows are created equal. Even a simple Google search will reveal that not all companies focus on quality, and some use predatory financing.
A window company should help you understand the features available for your particular home and budget. Some of the most important options are:
Energy efficiency: If you want to save on cooling bills then double-pane windows with Low-E coatings and high SHGC are ideal.
UV Protection: You can protect your carpets and furniture from fading in the Texas sun with impact-resistant glass that resists cracking and shattering.
Durability: Clad wood frames have wood on the inside and a vinyl or aluminum jacket on the outside, making them less susceptible to damage from weather and other elements.
3. Get a Quote
Like any big home improvement project, windows can strain the budget. You want to choose the best value for your money, so collect quotes from several reputable installers.
The type of frame can drive up the price. Wood frames are high-end options that offer durability and natural insulation. Fiberglass combines the strength of wood with low-maintenance features.
Energy-saving features can also increase the quote. Double- and triple-pane windows with low-E coatings and argon gas fills increase energy efficiency, saving you money over time. If you live in an area prone to storms, you may need impact-resistant or reinforced windows. Replacing 10 or more windows at once can qualify you for volume discounts. These discounts can reduce your per-window cost significantly. This makes it an even more attractive investment.
4. Make the Decision
When buying new windows it is important to focus on the features that are most important to you. For example, the frame material that you choose. Choosing vinyl is common, but many homeowners want wood frames to match their historical homes or prefer the look of fiberglass.
You should also pay attention to energy efficiency. Energy-efficient windows reduce energy waste by blocking heat and cold from leaking into your home. This can help to lower your utility bills and improve comfort.
Locally owned and operated, The Window Source understands Houston families and offers custom-built solutions that feel like they were made just for you! They offer free consultations without the high pressure and have a lifetime warranty to keep you covered. Plus, their financing options make it easy to upgrade your home without breaking the bank.
5. Schedule an Installation
Once you’ve settled on a window material and budget, the final step is scheduling your installation. A reputable company with a dedicated team of installers and years of experience will provide high-quality windows that are designed for your specific home’s environment.
Vinyl windows are highly resistant to moisture and rot, making them well-suited for Houston’s humid climate. They also feature excellent thermal insulation, keeping cooling costs low. Plus, they don’t swell or contract with temperature changes like wood windows do, helping maintain a tight seal.
Andersen windows are an Energy Star Partner, and their windowpanes feature a coating that blocks damaging UV rays from heating up your home. In addition, the spaces between double- and triple-pane insulated windows are filled with argon gas for added insulation.