REPLACEMENT WINDOW PRICES

November 16th, 2007

Replacement Window Prices

Replacement windows can be a huge hassle if you do not do the proper preparation work and research. Replacement window companies have gotten the reputation for being one of the pushiest kinds of salespeople-but this is not always the case. Here are some tips to help you get a product deserving of your home, and wallet.

1. What Type Of Window Do You Need? Replacement windows range from affordable (some are cheaply manufactured) vinyl replacements to expertly crafted wooden-framed windows. Prices range dramatically as well. Figure out how many years you plan on staying in the condo or house. If it is less than five, consider the less expensive windows.
2. Make Appointments for Free In-Home Estimates. Call three companies specializing strictly in replacement windows. When you call the company, make sure the estimate is free and that there are no obligations attached to the visit. Some companies will cleverly find out if you are married or have a ???significant other??? by asking leading questions. Be careful of this tactic, as if they find out you do have another decision-maker in the house, they might refuse to come out unless both of you are there.
3. Ask For A Cheaper Window. The salesperson will likely tell you all about a high-priced or middle of the road window. Ask them to talk to you about a window that is a ???step down??? from what they are talking about. Indicate to them that you like their business, but that you have a strict budget that you will be adhering to. If the salesperson knows you will be stubborn on pricing, he will do his best to sell you on the lower grade window (which will likely be what you are looking for anyway).
4. Make Appointments with Handy Men and Contractors. Ask your neighbors and friends for references for handy men who can do replacement windows. Have one or two evaluate your home and give you a price. Make sure that they have been given glowing recommendations before you invite them into your home. Ask them what kind of window they would use.
5. Stick To Your Guns. Have a budget that you want to stick with for your windows, but allow for wiggle room. Never make a decision on the spot-particularly with the window company salesmen-they are trained to close deals! They will tempt you with discounts, but it is always wiser to compare several bids. Ask for an extension of three days on the price that they quoted you to give you time to think it over. Do not feel bad that you aren’t giving them business-it is their job to prove to you why you should hire them.
6. Compile Information. Keep all the window informational sheets and packets on your desk for comparison. It is likely that two or three of the companies or handymen will be using the same windows. This will make your comparison that much easier.
7. Pricing. Pricing is broken down into two basic things-price of each window and price of installation. Break down the bids into these two categories. Compare bids in terms of price per window installed. The low end (depending on where you live) will be $300/window for Harvey vinyl replacements and the high end for a product like Anderson or Pella could be $1000/window installed.
8. Quality. Factor in the quality of the window. For instance, the price per window on a Pella or Anderson replacement will be higher than a price on a Harvey replacement. Decide if you really need the triple-paned window or if you just need a generic double-paned window. Most of the time the contractors and companies will be showing you almost identical windows, but do your best to compare them on quality. Ask for brochures on the windows and set up a chart comparing the assets of each. Research the window model number online as well.
9. Warranty. Ask about the warranty on the windows. Most of the companies specializing in window replacement will offer a warranty on parts and service. Handymen and general contractors will not offer service contracts usually, but the window itself may have a transferable warranty. Ask if the warranty exists and if it is transferable. A transferable warranty means that it transfers to the next owner for the duration of the warranty. If you are planning on doing a condo over and reselling it, a warranty is a great asset to advertise.
10. Timing. The window companies will lead you to believe that it takes over three weeks to get the windows. Unless there is a serious back order on the particular window you are buying, it will take less time. These companies would like you to feel pressured into making a decision quickly, so as to ???get the order process started.??? Ask them, point blank, how long the order will take, and that if it takes more than three weeks, you are not interested. It may be the case that it will take longer, but usually two to three weeks for regular replacements is the norm.
11. Payment. Companies may seek three installments-one at purchase, another when the windows come in, and the last at the end of installation. Make sure you are clear on the payment schedule before committing.

One of the most important things about contracting a business or contractor to do your windows is to feel comfortable-both with the price as well as the service. Deciding on whether a warranty is that important to you, figuring out a price that you can afford, and choosing the quality of the window are other important considerations. Good luck!

By Grace Bloodwell

Entry Filed under: Replacement Windows