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The first step in purchasing your vinyl replacement windows is to decide which windows you want to replace in your home. All of them, or only a select few? It is a good idea to prepare a preliminary budget so you know how many replacement windows you can afford to purchase. Keep in mind there are dozens of replacement window materials, designs and features to choose from. Contact several replacement window vendors and installers for quotes. Take some time to consider what you want your new replacement window to accomplish. Are they meant to be an architectural design feature, or are you purchasing them merely for their functionality? Windows are also meant to provide a measure of security, so keep in mind how you want your new replacement windows to operate. Installing replacement windows in a big project and will take at least several days. During this time, you home will be somewhat exposed to the elements. Don’t start this project in the middle of winter or during the rainiest season of the year. When contacting vendors, ask about the different window types and the merits and costs of each: wood frames, wood that is vinyl-clad or wood that is aluminum-clad. Vinyl- and aluminum-clad windows do not require painting, so they are low-maintenance. Note that vinyl clad replacement windows are not always available in a wide range of colors. Aside from aesthetic properties, discuss the energy-efficiency properties as well, such as standard insulated glass and low-e glass. Low-e glass reduces heat loss through the glass while at the same time allowing heat from the sun to penetrate. Gas-filled windows have argon or krypton inserted between double glazing which reduces heat loss. The additional cost of these features should be worth it when compared the how much it saves you on your heating and cooling bills. Aluminum and vinyl window frames are less expensive than wood-class vinyl or aluminum, but they are not as energy efficient. You don’t just want to check a vendor’s products; you want to check the vendors themselves for past references. Were previous customers happy with their services? Was the work completed in a timely manner? You might even want to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints against them. Select a vendor based on price, window price, references and your first impressions. Make sure the vendor offers guarantees with a contract. If your vendor and installer are two separate parties, make sure the installer knows what kind of replacement windows you’ve chosen and is prepared for the project. Also, make sure your installer is properly insured with a valid certificate of insurance from the contractor.
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