Everything You Need To Know About

Replacement Windows
An unbiased, no nonsense consumer’s guide written by a window professional to assist
you in making a well informed decision about replacement windows.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction 2

2. Why replace your windows? 3

3. What are windows made of and what choice is best for me? 4

4. How do I know I am purchasing an energy efficient window? 9

5. What type of glass should I choose? 12

6. Three methods of replacing windows, which one is best for me? 13

7. Warranties – what do they really mean and how to read them? 15

8. How much should replacement windows cost? 16

9. How to choose the right window contractor 16

10. Buyer beware 17

11. What to do next 18

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Introduction
If you are searching for replacement windows for your home, I would like to show
you an easy way to evaluate your replacement purchase with fewer hassles, no high
pressure sales techniques and in less time than you could expect from traditional
window companies.

Hello, my name is Dennis Dunn, General Manager for the Replacement Division at
Quality Window and Door. We are unique to the window replacement industry
because we believe that one window cannot fit all needs, wants, styles and budgets.
We sincerely believe that our number one job is to educate you and help you make a
well informed decision on the purchase of your new windows. That is why we
represent multiple non proprietary product lines and can provide an unbiased opinion
of most window and door products.

In a recent homeowner survey we found that most people are confused by all of the
technical lingo provided about replacement windows and really don’t know what is
best for them. I would like to share with you how you can be sure that you evaluate
replacement windows objectively without the pressure of a sales person who claims
to have one and only one product that is the best money can buy. This free report
will educate you and help you make a well informed decision.

This 18 page report is packed full of facts about windows and will give you all of the
information you need to prepare yourself for your replacement purchase. Don’t even
think about buying replacement windows until you have read this report. It was
developed to give you important information about replacement windows that most
people do not even consider before buying and what most companies don’t even
know about or want you to know.

In today’s market more and more window companies are training their reps on sales
techniques that involve high pressure that coerce the homeowner into buying
products that really don’t fit their needs, wants, style or budget. Smoke and mirror
presentation techniques are used to convince them that this is the one and only
product for them. The reps are polished in their presentation but lack experience and
education when it comes to alternative products, design choices and replacement
techniques. They don’t have the homeowner’s best interest at heart; they are more
interested in how much commission they can earn.

In today’s busy world we realize that your time is at a premium. If you are just
starting to think about replacement windows or are ready to hire a contractor, this
report will give you all of the information you need to make a well informed decision.
Let us help you save a lot of time and aggravation by reading this entire report.

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2. Why replace your windows?

There are multiple reasons why people replace their windows. In a recent survey
conducted by Window and Door Magazine the top 10 reasons are:

1. Energy efficiency - The weakest link in the building envelope for energy loss
in a home will always be the windows. You can realistically expect to save 15-
20% or more on your utility bills with replacement windows. Older homes with
windows that have single pane glass will obviously realize the most savings. With
the price of energy continuing to rise, your savings will continue to compound.
Newer homes with inexpensive windows can also be a huge energy drain. As they
get older the cheaper parts wear out and begin to lose their effectiveness in
keeping out the cold and the heat. Think about new replacement windows like a
new car that gets great gas mileage. The higher the price of gas the more money
you save.

2. Easy to Clean – With the amount of airborne particles in the air today, dirty
windows are commonplace. Dirty windows drastically reduce the amount of
visible light transmittance. The ability to clean your windows is more important
than ever. Many new features have been developed to assist in the cleaning
process. Most double hung windows feature easy tilt in sashes which allow
cleaning of the exterior glass from the interior of your home. Some casement
windows crank out and over to allow cleaning for the inside. Others are offering
exterior glass coatings that keep windows cleaner, longer.

3. Maintenance free – Most manufacturers today offer an exterior window that

requires little or no maintenance. Other than cleaning and inspection of the caulk
joints on an annual basis, you should enjoy many years of worry free maintenance
to your windows and trim. Windows made of vinyl, fiberglass, composite
material, aluminum clad wood, vinyl clad wood or all aluminum will provide you
with varying degrees of low maintenance. Most will eliminate the need to paint on
a regular basis which will save on your painting bills.

4. Aesthetics – New windows can provide a new or updated look. They also can
match your original home and blend in architecturally while providing energy
saving benefits. Many manufacturers feature multiple color choices for the
exterior and hardwood interiors for that special look. Grid options or style of
window give you the opportunity to totally change the look on the outside. There
are so many new options for color, hardware, grids, and interiors now available
that you can truly personalize your windows to match your individual tastes.

5. Comfort – The elimination of cold drafts and convection in the winter and hot
spots in the house during the hot summer months is another great benefit of new
windows. Everyone wants their house to be comfortable. New energy efficient

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 windows with reflective properties help keep radiant heat inside in the winter and
outside in the summer.

6. Noise reduction – Double and triple pane glass, Low E coatings, Argon,
Krypton gas, and modern weather stripping all contribute to a quieter home when
you have your windows replaced. For those high traffic or city areas, laminated
glass can dramatically reduce sound transmission through your windows.

7. Safety – Today’s modern windows have easy to use features that provide an
escape route in case of fire. Ease of operation, easy tilt latches and the ability to
totally remove sashes can provide you with peace of mind in case of fire.
Tempered or safety glass provides protection in high traffic and high hazard areas
where there is danger of falling through the glass or glass breakage. For the
ultimate in security protection, laminated glass can prevent or reduce the chance
of break-ins and eliminate the need for security bars.

8. Durability – High quality windows are built with the latest advances in
technology. You can expect to get many years of trouble free performance, low
maintenance and energy savings with quality replacement windows. Many
manufacturers are now offering limited lifetime warranties.

9. Re-sale value – New windows enhance your homes value and are one of many
value rating points for appraisers. A 2010 research study from industry experts
states that in the South Atlantic Region you can expect to recoup 73-77% of the
cost of a midrange window replacement project, depending up window material
used.

10. UV protection – Natural light from the sun produces ultraviolet rays that are
harmful to both humans and home furnishings. Increased incidence of skin cancer
and eye problems can be directly related to the sun. Fading of carpet, furniture,
floors, and drapes is commonplace with old windows. With new glass technology,
many of these problems can be drastically reduced without dramatically affecting
the amount of visible light transmittance.

3. What are windows made of and what choice is best for me?

Wood Windows
Wood windows have been used for centuries and despite the coming of metals and
synthetics, wood remains the traditionalist’s choice. Wood windows deliver exceptional
thermal performance due to their inherent insulating qualities. Warmth and the natural
beauty of wood make them a popular choice. Historic neighborhoods often require
replacement windows made of wood that closely resemble the old style window being
replaced. Many architects prefer wood products to maintain the look and feel of
traditional architecture. Wood windows with state of the art weather stripping and

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operating hardware are a vast improvement over drafty, poorly operating windows found
in older homes.

Unfortunately quality wood windows are among the higher priced products. If you are
selecting wood replacement windows, be sure to choose a reputable maunfucturer that
uses preservative treated wood in the construction of their products. All lumber should be
treated after it is cut to ensure long lasting beauty and performance. Quality primer, finish
coats and caulk should be used to ensure that your windows will stand up against the
elements. Yearly inspections should be done on all exterior surfaces and caulk joints to
ensure years of long lasting beauty and trouble free operation.

Energy Effciency: Very Good

Price: High
Maintenance: High
Durability: Fair
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Very Good

Wood Clad Windows

Wood clad windows should be considered if wood windows are desired but maintenance
is a major concern. Cladding is typically an aluminum or vinyl protective cover that
shields the wood exterior from weather but leaves the natural wood exposed on the
inside.

There are 3 types of wood clad windows to consider.

1. Extruded aluminum clad windows use a very durable cladding in the

manufacturing process.The aluminum is extruded by pushing it through a die and
forming one piece of shaped metal. This piece of aluminum is typically the thickness of a
quarter. The factory paint finsh is then evenly applied to the entire extrusion. It is then
attached and sealed to the wood window sash and frame. In many manufacturing
processes this becomes an integral part of the window and adds structural strength to the
frame and sash.

Energy Effciency: Very Good

Price: High
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Very Good
Strength: Very Good
Color Selection: Very Good

2. Roll formed aluminum clad windows use a very different process. Roll formed
aluminum is processed or rolled into a thin aluminum sheet then paint is applied to this
entire sheet. It is cut then bent and wrapped around a sash or frame. It typically is the
thickness of a soda can. It can be prone to denting and usually does not improve the
structural strength of the window. Some window manufacturers use a combination of a
roll formed sash with an extruded aluminum frame. Window and siding contractors use

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roll formed aluminum or coil stock to cover exterior trim to make it maintenance free.
Roofers use it for flashing material.

Energy Efficiency: Very Good

Price: High
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Very Good

3. Vinyl clad windows use a combination of vinyl and wood. The vinyl is
extruded and attached to the window sash and frame. Some manufacturers use vinyl
covered frames with painted wood sashes. Other manufacturers make a complete vinyl
window and laminate the interior with thin layers of wood. Typically vinyl clad windows
are the least durable because vinyl has no inherent strength and over time is broken down
by the suns rays. Vinyl’s low thermal conduction properties may provide a slightly higher
energy efficiency rating over aluminum.

Energy Effciency: Very Good

Price: High
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Average

Vinyl Windows
It wasn’t too long ago that vinyl windows were considered a less than ideal choice for
window replacement. Vinyl is a petroleum based product that is adversely affect by the
sun’s ultraviolet rays. Advances in design plus improvements in formulations of vinyl
have greatly improved the quality of the product and now are a viable alternative to
wood. Vinyl’s low thermal conduction properties make it nearly ideal for use in
windows. Like aluminum windows, vinyl is extruded, but because vinyl is not rigid,
several internal hollow chambers are often added to provide strength. These chambers
also trap air, increasing the energy performance and improve the sound deadening
qualities of the window. Overall the thicker the vinyl and more internal chambers, the
stronger and more energy efficient the vinyl window will be. The design of the extrusion
is critical to the energy performance and structural strength of the product.

There are two manufacturing processes for vinyl windows, mechanically fastened and
fusion heat welded. Mechanically fastened windows are almost a thing of the past and
can be of very low quality. The frames and sashes are screwed together at the corners.
They are susceptible to leakage and do not provide structural strength. Heat fusion
welded windows actually meld the vinyl at all corners, providing excellent strength and
weather proofing properties. Manufacturers that use four point welders that fuse all 4
corners simultaneously are the ideal choice because they ensure that the frame and sash
will be square.

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Not all vinyl windows are created equal. The type of vinyl used in the window has a
direct effect on the performance and longevity of the product. Vinyl windows are made
out of a compound known as PVC or polyvinyl chloride. PVC can be difficult to extrude
or push through dies that form the parts and pieces for the window. In order to aid in the
extrusion process plasticizers are added to make the compound more pliable. While
plasticizers aid in the extrusion process, they have some adverse side effects as well.
Plasticizers can make the vinyl very dense and brittle, making the window susceptible to
cracking and twisting when exposed to ultra violet rays. The development of uPVC
or unplasticized-polyvinyl chloride has greatly improved the manufacturing process.
With this compound, no plasticizers are added. Instead, other additives are mixed with
the compound to provide protection from weathering, impact strength, and aid in the
extrusion process of the material. The final product is stronger, longer lasting, and will
fight the effects of ultra violet rays.

Energy Effciency: Very Good

Price: Moderate
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Average
Color Selection: Average

Cellular PVC Windows

Cellular PVC windows are fairly new to the window replacement market. Cellular PVC
is a solid, extruded material that has the working characteristics of wood, and is used for
interior trim, exterior trim, and paneling as well as windows and doors, blinds, and
furniture. Cellular PVC is created by Celuka, a foaming extrusion process than creates
tiny air bubbles within the shape, resulting in a density less than half that of regular PVC.
The material is then cooled to form a smooth, hard skin that doesn't absorb paint or bleed.
Cellular PVC has very high tensile strength and resistance to movement caused by
thermal expansion and contraction. Cellular PVC is medium white and can be painted
with light acrylic paints. Because profiles can be welded like vinyl and milled like wood,
they can be produced to look like a wood window. Cellular PVC avoids many potential
problems of wood, such as rot, split, water absorption, peeling paint, and termites. It can
be left unfinished, or with a color-matched permanent finish.

Energy Efficiency: Very Good

Price: High
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Good
Color Selection: Good

Aluminum Windows
Aluminum Windows were very popular when energy prices were not a concern. Today
aluminum windows are used more in commercial buildings because of their structural
strength, which allows very large glass sizes to be used. Design of the aluminum
extrusion is critical to energy performance and the structural and operational

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characteristics of the window product. Aluminum can be manufactured to very close
tolerances. This, along with the durability and strength, can insure that an aluminum
window will provide many years of reliable operation.
Aluminum is a very good conductor of heat (1000 times more than wood and vinyl) and
cold. However they can be designed with a much smaller profile than wood or vinyl. This
can minimize heat frame loss and yield a larger glass vision area.
Thermally improved aluminum windows can deliver strength and durability of solid
aluminum but with a reduction in heat loss through the frame. A standard aluminum
frame will allow heat to travel freely from the warm inner side of the frame to the cold
exterior side. This heat loss can be reduced by a thermal break which separates or splits
the inside frame from the outside frame with non conductive material. A thermal break
can substantially improve the window performance.
Energy Efficiency: Average
Price: Moderate
Maintenance: Very Good
Durability: Very Good
Strength: Very Good
Color Selection: Good
Fiberglass and Composite Windows

Fiberglass Windows are relatively new to the market and can provide a combination of
benefits. Fiberglass is structural strong, expands and contracts very little with the
temperature changes, and is a good insulator. Fiberglass frames are much stronger than
vinyl and therefore can be made with a lower profile like aluminum but with better
thermal efficiency. Several varieties of fiberglass windows have recently become
available as some manufacturers have entered the composite market. They are combining
a wood interior with a composite exterior. Rather than providing a fiberglass cladding
over wood, the main frame of the window is all fiberglass, providing structural strength
and the finished exterior of the window. Typically today fiberglass windows have been
priced above vinyl and equal to the cost of high-end wood windows. As more new
window products come on the market today, the issue of availability and price will
determine which segment of the housing market will accept or demand fiberglass
products.
Composite Windows- Any of the frame material types mentioned above may be
combined to make hybrid windows. For instance, interior wood strips are sometimes
attached to an aluminum frame to combine the exterior weathering, strength and weight
properties of aluminum with a natural wood interior finish. Although these products own
a very small share of the current market, new products combining vinyl with fiberglass,
wood or other materials are appearing as manufacturing processes evolve and improve.
Energy Efficiency: Very Good
Price: High
Maintenance: Good
Durability: Good
Strength: Very Good
Color Selection: Good

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4. How do I know I am purchasing an energy efficient window?

Many States have adopted an energy efficiency rating system for windows developed by
National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Energy Star certified products also can
provide you with an unbiased rating of the performance of windows and doors.

About NFRC

NFRC is a non-profit organization that administers the only uniform, independent rating
and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, and
attachment products. Their goal is to provide fair, accurate, and reliable energy
performance ratings so that:

• Architects, builders, code officials, contractors, homeowners, and others can

compare different products and make informed product choices.

• Building officials, state government employees, and others involved in code

development and enforcement can determine if products meet local codes.

• Government- and utility-run energy efficiency programs can establish performance

requirements and standards.

• Manufacturers have a fair and level playing field to compare products and an accurate
method of showing the energy benefits of new designs or technology.

The History of NFRC

Ultimately, NFRC was formed in response to the energy crises of the 1970s.

To address concerns about energy consumption, the fenestration industry developed a

host of new energy efficient technologies: low-e coatings, low-conductance spacers, gas
fills, etc.

Unfortunately, in advertising these new technologies some manufacturers made

outlandish claims about the performance of their products. Consumers complained, and
the federal government began to investigate allegations of unscrupulous practices in the
industry.

By the late 1980s, key industry stakeholders began to realize that something had to be
done to prevent widespread confusion, federal intervention, and perhaps costly litigation.
They came together in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1989 and founded NFRC to
provide independent verification of product performance.

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The NFRC Label

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)

energy performance label can help you determine how
well a product will perform the functions of helping to
cool your building in the summer, warm your building
in the winter, keep out wind, and resist condensation.
By using the information contained on the label,
builders and consumers can reliably compare one
product with another, and make informed decisions
about the windows, doors, and skylights they buy.
NFRC adopted a new energy performance label in
2005. It lists the manufacturer, describes the product,
provides a source for additional information, and
includes ratings for one or more energy performance
characteristics.

The information contained on the label is also available in the NFRC's online Certified
Products Directory.

U-Factor
U-factor measures how well a product prevents heat from escaping. The rate of heat loss
is indicated in terms of the U-factor (U-value) of a window assembly. U-Factor ratings
generally fall between 0.20 and 1.20. The insulating value is indicated by the R-value
which is the inverse of the U-value. The lower the U-value, the greater a window's
resistance to heat flow and the better its insulating value.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures how well a product blocks heat caused by
sunlight. The SHGC is the fraction of incident solar radiation admitted through a
window, both directly transmitted, and absorbed and subsequently released inward.
SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window's solar heat gain
coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits

Visible Transmittance
Visible Transmittance (VT) measures how much light comes through a product. The
visible transmittance is an optical property that indicates the amount of visible light
transmitted. VT is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The higher the VT, the more
light is transmitted.

Air Leakage*
Air Leakage (AL) is indicated by an air leakage rating expressed as the equivalent cubic
feet of air passing through a square foot of window area (cfm/sq ft). Heat loss and gain
occur by infiltration through cracks in the window assembly. The lower the AL, the less
air will pass through cracks in the window assembly.

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Condensation Resistance*
Condensation Resistance (CR) measures the ability of a product to resist the formation of
condensation on the interior surface of that product. The higher the CR rating, the better
that product is at resisting condensation formation. While this rating cannot predict
condensation, it can provide a credible method of comparing the potential of various
products for condensation formation. CR is expressed as a number between 0 and 100.

* This rating is optional and manufacturers can choose not to include it.

History of ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a dynamic government/industry partnership that offers businesses and

consumers energy-efficient solutions, making it easy to save money while protecting the
environment for future generations.
In 1992 the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced ENERGY STAR as
a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Computers and monitors were the first labeled
products. Through 1995, EPA expanded the label to additional office equipment products
and residential heating and cooling equipment. In 1996, EPA partnered with the US
Department of Energy for particular product categories. The ENERGY STAR label is
now on major appliances, office equipment, lighting, home electronics, and more. EPA
has also extended the label to cover new homes and commercial and industrial buildings.

Through its partnerships with more than 8,000 private and public sector organizations,
ENERGY STAR delivers the technical information and tools that organizations and
consumers need to choose energy-efficient solutions and best management practices.
ENERGY STAR has successfully delivered energy and cost savings across the country,
saving businesses, organizations, and consumers about $10 billion in 2004 alone. Over
the past decade, ENERGY STAR has been a driving force behind the more widespread
use of such technological innovations as LED traffic lights, efficient fluorescent lighting,
power management systems for office equipment, and low standby energy use.

Recently, energy prices have become a hot news topic and a major concern for
consumers. ENERGY STAR provides solutions. ENERGY STAR provides a trustworthy
label on over 40 product categories (and thousands of models) for the home and office.
These products deliver the same or better performance as comparable models while using
less energy and saving money. ENERGY STAR also provides easy-to-use home and
building assessment tools so that homeowners and building managers can start down the
path to greater efficiency and cost savings.

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5. What type of glass should I choose?
Many glass options are available today that can greatly affect your comfort, protection of
the interior of your home, security, and safety, all which should be considered before
making a window purchase.

Low emissivity (low-E) in simple terms is a microscopic metallic coating applied to the
inner surface of insulated glass that reflects energy back to its source. It is designed to
reflect invisible long wave radiation, thereby improving the thermal performance of the
window as measured by the U-factor. It can help keep your house cool in the summer and
warm in the winter. Low-E coatings improve the window U-factor by reflecting long
wave radiation, rather than absorbing and conducting the heat out through the glass.
Low-E also helps to reduce fading of carpet, floors, paintings, and furniture by reducing
the amount of UV rays that enter the home.

You can easily demonstrate the effect of a low emissivity material yourself, by taking a
piece of aluminum foil and placing the shiny side about an inch above the back of your
hand. You'll instantly feel long-wave radiation reflected back to your hand as it warms.
Low-E glass coatings work in the same manner, only they're transparent!

Tempered Glass is hardened glass. Almost any glass product may be tempered. The
glass is cut to the required size and is then put through a heating process. After the
process is complete, the glass becomes approximately four times harder than regular
glass. When the glass product is tempered it is considered a safety glass. If the tempered
glass should happen to break, it shatters into small pellets, which shouldn't cause any
serious injury. Tempered glass is used in side and rear windows of motor vehicles and all
glass door products. New building codes require many other areas in the home to have
safety glass. Consult your window professional to ensure that you are conforming to
these codes.

Laminated Glass is a multifunctional glazing material that can be used in a variety of

applications. It is manufactured by permanently bonding two or more lites of glass with
layers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer, under heat and pressure, to create a single
construction. It has many uses and applications.
Sound Control Shielding a building's environment from increasing noise levels,
especially near airports and busy highways, is a critical factor in the specification of
glazing materials for both new and renovated structures. Laminated glass is a proven,
effective solution for acoustical protection.
Light & Solar Control Laminated architectural glass may be designed to reduce
solar energy transmittance, control glare and screen out ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Transmitted solar energy is reduced by the use of tinted or coated glass, colored
interlayers, or combinations of each that absorb part of the solar radiation in the
ultraviolet, visible and near-infrared ranges. The absorbed energy is converted to heat,
and a large portion is dissipated to the exterior.
Safety& Burglary Resistant Laminated safety glass is a multifunctional glazing
material that when impacted, typically breaks safely and remains an integral part of the
opening. Impulse burglaries are resisted by the tough plastic interlayer.

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 Decorative Laminated glass allows great flexibility for decorative glass. Many
different effects can be created by deliberately adding other substances to the laminate.
Hurricane and Storm Glass-The stringent code requirements of Florida and other
coastal regions require that the building envelope be maintained during a hurricane. All
elements of the building shell must resist the effects of windborne debris as well as
sustained turbulent winds lasting several hours. Extensive research, following Hurricane
Andrew in 1992, showed that a breech of the envelope led to internal pressurization of
the building. This effectively doubled the forces on major structural elements such as
walls and roofs, leading to catastrophic failure.

6. Three different methods of replacing windows

1. Sash replacement (double hung windows only) - sashes (the parts of the window
that go up and down) and the jamb liners (tracks that the sashes ride up and down
on) are removed from the window. New energy efficient jamb liners and sashes
are inserted into the existing window frame.

Energy Efficiency: Because this method relies on your existing window

frames being plumb, level and square, it can be the least energy efficient
way to replace windows. If your windows are fairly square it can be a very
effective. Manufacturers will only guarantee the energy ratings of the
glass itself, not the entire window.

Disruption to your home: There is minimal disruption with this method.

The interior window stops are removed to install this type of replacement
window. Only the parts and pieces of the existing window are being
replaced. The existing interior and exterior trim remain.

Ease of Installation: Fairly easy to install for an experienced mechanic.

Can be time consuming if existing window frames are not square. Much
shimming involved and installation of after market weather stripping is
typically required. Must measure for screens separately. Can be difficult to
provide tight fitting screens.

When to use: This method should only be used when you desire to
maintain the original look and feel of the old windows, and you do not
want to incur additional expense and disruption to your home of a full
frame tear out. It is typically done with wood windows but is also
available in wood clad. It can only be done with double hung windows and
picture windows. Typically is not done with an all vinyl product.
Cost-Moderate to high priced depending upon window options. Typically
costs about the same as a wood clad pocket replacement window.

2. Insert replacement-or pocket fit window. Sashes and jamb liners are removed
and a new window with its own frame is installed within the existing frame.

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 Energy Efficiency: Because the window has new sashes and frame it will
provide excellent energy efficiency. The manufacturer can provide and
guarantee the efficiency of the product. Cannot guarantee that air leakage
will not occur around existing window frame.

Disruption to your home: There is minimal disruption with this method.

The interior window stops are removed to install this type of replacement
window. Only the parts and pieces of the existing window are being
replaced. The existing interior and exterior trim remain. Can be installed
from the exterior without removing any interior stops.

Ease of Installation: Easiest way to install for an experienced mechanic.

Eliminates concerns for windows that are not plumb level or square
because it has its own frame. Typically the exterior trim of the existing
window is covered or wrapped in matching aluminum to seal the old
exterior trim and make it low maintenance.

When to use: This method should be used when you desire maximum
energy efficiency, minimal disruption to your home and minimal labor
cost. This is the common method for installing vinyl windows. Can be
used with double hung, casement, picture and awning windows.

Cost-Moderate to high priced replacement because labor cost is minimal

but windows are custom sized.

3. Full frame replacement-Interior trim, exterior trim and entire window is

removed and a new window with its own frame is installed within the framed wall
opening. New insulation is installed around the perimeter of the window.

Energy Efficiency: Because this method removes the entire window and
frame and insulation can be installed around the perimeter, it provides
maximum energy efficiency.

Disruption to your home: There is major disruption with this method. All
parts of the window are removed along with interior and exterior trim.
May require repairs to interior surfaces. May require additional painting to
adjacent walls.

Ease of Installation: Most difficult installation method and major time

involved. All window components, exterior and interior trim are replaced.
Requires an experienced mechanic for installation and trim work.

When to use: This method should be used when you desire to maintain
the original look and feel of the old windows and you want maximum
efficiency. You also want to replace or change your interior moldings.
Typically not done using vinyl windows. Done when old frames are

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 rotting out and or a desire to replace interior trim. Typically done with
wood and clad windows. Can be done with all styles of windows.

Cost-High priced replacement because or high labor and material costs.

7. Warranties- what do they really mean and how to read them?

Generally, there are two types of warranties. “Implied Warranties” based on state law
which are unwritten promises that say consumers are entitled to get what they have
paid for. “Express Warranties” are promises actually stated to the consumer. They
could be written, for example in a contract or in an advertisement, or they could be
oral, such as a sales representative’s statement to a buyer about how a window will
not leak for 10 years.

The Moss Warranty Act is the federal law governing written warranties on consumer
products and is overseen by the Federal Trade Commission. The act only applies to
warranties on goods, and only applies to consumer sales.

Warranty coverage should be described in a single, easy to read document. It should

explain what is and is not covered by the warranty, how long it lasts, and how a claim
is made.

The warranty must be titled “full” or “limited.” A “full warranty must meet 5
requirements: it must be fully transferable to later owners of the purchased goods;
service calls must be made without any charge to the consumer; if the contractor
cannot repair the problem, consumers can chose to get their money back or obtain a
complete replacement of the damaged part; to make a claim, the consumer merely has
to notify the contractor of the problem and request warranty coverage; and the full
warranty must not limit any implied warranties the consumer may be entitled to under
state law.

If the warranty is not “full” then by default it must be “limited.” Limited warranties
will always have restrictions. You also may have some parts of a warranty under a
full warranty and other parts under a limited warranty.

Warranties are typically written by the attorneys of the manufacturers to protect the
manufacturer, not the consumer. Beware of lifetime warranties. If they are too good
to be true then usually they are. Often time’s new or unknown manufacturers offer
warranties that they cannot fulfill, in order to compete in the marketplace. Do not
purchase a product just because you think it has a great warranty. Typically reputable
manufacturers will offer competing or similar warranties that are commonplace in the
industry.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal
advice. If you have a warranty issue you should consult with your attorney.

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8. How much should window replacements cost?
Replacement window prices vary from company to company, product to product.
Some may appear to be ridiculously low; others outrageously high. The following
information will help you establish a budget for your project.

Vinyl pocket replacement

Replace 10 existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated vinyl
replacement windows (pocket fit application in a wood frame). Wrap existing exterior
trim as required to match. Do not disturb existing interior trim or exterior trim.

$5000-$8000 average cost depending upon window manufacturer, options and

installation conditions*

Wood Clad pocket replacement

Replace 10 existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated wood clad
replacement windows (pocket fit application in a wood frame). Wrap existing exterior
trim as required to match. Do not disturb existing interior trim or exterior trim.

$8000 -$12000 average cost depending upon window manufacturer, options and
installation conditions*

Wood Clad full tear out

Replace 10 existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated wood clad
replacement windows (full frame tear out). Install new interior and exterior trim.

$12000-$18000 average cost depending upon window manufacturer, options and

installation conditions*
*For informational purposes only, not guaranteed. Consult with your window professional for pricing
that is specific to your project.

9. How to choose the right window contractor

Your success in finding a reliable, honest and dependable company will ultimately
predict your happiness or disappointment in your project. The following checklist
should help eliminate most of the problem contractors and help ensure your success
rate:

9 Home improvement license

9 Liability, auto and workmen’s compensation insurance
9 Numerous customer references
9 An established commercial place of business, preferably with a showroom
9 In business for at least 5 years
9 Proof of financial stability
9 Written warranties for product and workmanship

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 9 Written standards for installation
9 Factory trained or authorized installers
9 In house service department
9 Able to provide financing for your project

10. Buyer Beware

Buy 2 get one free…40% guaranteed energy savings….double lifetime warranty….if

you buy tonight I can reduce the cost by $$$$$…Save $150 per window… free
energy audit…Save 30% with our biggest sale of the year!...$100 per window instant
factory rebate…

In today’s advertising world we are constantly bombarded with window replacement

sales that sound like great deals. For the first time purchaser these “sales” are very
enticing but more often than not turn out to be too good to be true. They learn the
hard way.

Beware of unethical sales and marketing practices; inflated list prices, first night price
drops, bogus sales, 3 hour in-home presentations and refusal to leave the house when
asked. Much of the industry still use these outdated advertising and sales
methodologies that can be illegal.

Last year Penguin Windows, based in Seattle Washington was charged by the State’s
Attorney General with fraudulent advertising. The lawsuit said that Penguin’s ads,
which claimed that its windows would save homeowners at least 40 percent on their
heating and cooling bills, are false and Penguin had no reasonable basis to support
them.

The case was settled out of court. Penguin did not admit guilt but agreed to terms
prohibiting it from:

• Making misrepresentations to gain entry to the home

• Failing to substantiate advertising claims
• Interfering with cancellation rights
• Continuing in-home sales presentations after a customer has clearly stated that
he or she wants it to end

In a letter sent this year the Washington State’s Attorney General’s office warned
more than 30 home remodelers around the state to be truthful in their marketing and
avoid high pressure sales pitches.

“We want the home remodeling industry to do a makeover on their bad sales
practices. The law is clear as glass. If you intend to sell windows you can’t get your
foot in the door by telling consumers your going to do something else and you can’t
make up discounts and rebates to trick consumers into thinking they are getting a

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 deal,” said Assistant Attorney General Jack Zurlini of the Consumer Protection
Division.

The Federal Trade Commission recently has begun a series of private investigations
into window manufacturers focusing on energy savings and pledges.

11. What to do next?

Prepare your list of questions about your project. Contact a professional window
replacement company and ask upfront questions about their sales process. Arrange for
a no obligation free estimate at your home or schedule an appointment to visit their
showroom. A typical in-home appointment should last about an hour. Rate the
company on all areas of the process, not just the products they carry. Determine what
is most important to you. Price, Quality, Service… it is impossible to get all three.

I hope this guide serves it purpose in providing an educational and informative report
on replacing your windows. It is my sincere intention to educate every potential
candidate I come in contact with for replacement windows so they may make a well
informed decision. If you wish to take advantage of the services from one of the most
reputable companies in the area please contact me at 1-800-595-9991 or go to
www.windowscontactor.com and request a free estimate. My pledge to you is to take
the inflated prices and high pressure sales tactics out of the window replacement
business. I will educate you so you can make a choice and a well informed decision.

Dennis Dunn
Quality Window & Door, Inc
1-800-595-9991

All information in this report is deemed reliable but cannot be guaranteed. It is

provided for informational purposes only. Consult your professional for additional
information or clarifications.

DMD-QWD Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved.

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