How to Choose Replacement Windows – Part II

Now that you’ve poured over details, designs and colors and have a good ideal of the type of window you’d like in your Duval County home, it is now time to call in a window professional.

Choosing a Replacement Window Company

Researching companies and their reputation is often a good place to start if you’re unsure of the window companies in your area. Otherwise, choose at least three, different companies to compare prices, warranties and service.

Luckily, most replacement window companies will offer free, in-home consultations during which they will likely provide you with window samples and pictures, and inspect your current windows to determine your specific needs and wants. You may also ask them to provide you with a list of references of past customers so that you can research the company’s level of professionalism and service.

Window Warranties

Once you have received estimates from at least three window companies, you can further narrow down your choices by comparing the companies’ warranties.

A comprehensive warranty will cover seal breaks, glass breaks and other similar problems. In addition, most professional window companies will offer lifetime warranties on their windows. A “lifetime” window warranty is one that is usually good for 50 years.

In addition, your replacement window warranty should be transferrable, thereby allowing you to pass on the warranty to the new homeowners should you sell your home.

Energy-Saving Features

Finally, make sure the windows you choose have energy-saving benefits. Look for Energy Star rated windows, as they will provide you with the most energy efficiency (plus, they will provide you with tax savings at the end of the year).

You’re best bet is to check the windows’ NFRC rating. This rating, which stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council, is essentially a coalition of manufacturers and window experts who have set the standards for testing and labeling windows.

NFRC currently certifies whole-window U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and visible transmittance (VT). Any or all of these may appear on an NFRC label on the window. If there is no label, ask the manufacturer for the window's NFRC ratings.

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