The purpose of the following video is to give you some very basic background information about replacement windows.

Look around our site to learn more. We will let you know how to tell if you need new windows, what types are available---along with the pros and cons of each type, and where to get estimates. As you may (or may not!) know, you should get a minimum of three estimates so that you can make comparisons.

  For the moment enjoy our little show.

The two major choices you will face in choosing replacement window materials will be in selecting the type of frame and the type of glass that you want to have installed.

Frame options include:

1. Vinyl – Probably the #1 choice today because it is both cost and energy efficient in addition to being easy to care for. They are easy to care for and are available in several colors. Their only downfall is that they can’t be painted so you want to make your color selection carefully!
2. Wood – Wood frames are durable and energy efficient and they can be stained or painted. They do, however, require regular maintenance.
3. Wood Clad – These wood frames are clad on the exterior in either vinyl, aluminum or composite material. This means you can enjoy a low-maintenance exterior with the beauty and durability of wood inside your home! The interior wood can be purchased either pre-finished or unfinished. If you purchase it unfinished then you will need to paint or stain it after installation.
4. Composite – Composites are made with a combination of wood particles and/or plastics. They offer excellent energy efficiency and durability. Plastic frames do not need maintenance but can’t be painted or stained. On the other hand, wood particle frames can be painted or stained but do require maintenance.
5. Aluminum – These frames are strong and durable but NOT energy efficient!

  Glass options include:

1. Clear Glass – Still the most common material for windows although today’s technology offers several types of glazes that help resist heat loss and condensation.
2. Low E-Glass – (the E stands for emissivity) Low-E glass has a special coating to reduce heat transfer through the windows. It can reflect 40-70% of the heat that is normally transmitted through the glass! In my opinion Low-E glass is an excellent choice. Visit my blog at http://www.DoctorYourHome.com/myblog to read a recent article I published about Low-E glass. If you are shopping for new windows it is well worth reading and not too long or boring!
3. Standard Insulating Glass – Composed of two layers of clear glass designed to prevent heat loss.
4. You can also select options like obscure (privacy) glass, high-impact glass or tempered glass.

Finding A Contractor

How do you find a contractor for your replacement window project?

To start with you might be able to get a referral from a friend or relative that has had work done on their home or knows someone who has. If that person was satisfied with their work then give that contractor a call and ask for an estimate on your job.

No need to worry if you don’t know someone. There are other avenues available.

We feature two different companies right here on our site that you can contact for estimates. All you need to do is go to our Get Estimates page and fill out one or both forms. I suggest filling out both as it is wise to get at least three estimates so that you can make comparisons!

Both companies can put you in touch with a pre-qualified contractor in your area.

Another way to find a contractor is to look in the yellow pages. Generally if someone pays to advertise or be in the phone book they are a fairly reputable outfit.

On our News and Information page we are making available a detailed report/guide on how to: plan and prepare yourself and your home, evaluate contractors and estimates and set up payments so that your replacement window project turns out as well or even better than you imagined!