Before replacing your windows there are more question than you can imaging to ask yourself. I will spend a little time here talking about what question you should be asking yourself. Primary questions should be identified to help you prioritize your needs and desires. For example: how would you prioritize the following?
- Energy Efficiency - What do all the numbers mean?
- Comfort of living space - Heat, cold, sun's glare, privacy
- Budget - How much money makes sense?
- Resale - How much will you get back when you sell the house?
- Sound Reducing - Noisy street? Neighbor's pool equipment; dog?
- Decor - What is the right color? To grid or not to grid?
- Doors - Do I need doors too?
- Contractor - Big Box vs. Window Dealer vs. guy in pickup
Each one of these questions lead into a whole discussion of its own. Don't be duped by an aggressive sale person telling you they have the best window. Normally that means they have one window to chose from. Chances are it is not the right window for you. There are a lot of different types of windows and window manufacturers. Look for a window dealer that is going to consult with you about your needs and desires as layed out above. Don't let anyone tell you what is the right replacement window for you. If you will take the time to research, answer and prioritize the questions above you will be will on your way to chosing the right energy efficient window to meet your needs.
In future blogs I will break down each of these questions and detail how to find the answers righ for you. Stay tuned.
The Window Guy
