Windows are an integral part of every home, responsible for everything from allowing natural light in, keeping the elements out, controlling ventilation and playing an aesthetic role. Depending on how many windows you must replace, it can become a costly investment in your home and comfort. Hence, ensuring you’re buying the right window is critical, as the last thing you want is to select a window by gut feeling alone and then end up with the wrong window for the room or application.
With a wide variety of window styles, frame materials, and customization options available, choosing replacement windows can quickly become challenging. Today, we’ll highlight some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when choosing new windows.
Not Doing Your Research
Sometimes, it is convenient to just point at something that looks good and go with it. In some cases, this approach can work, but when it comes to windows, research is key for both the windows themselves and the contractor. As mentioned above, many different options are available, and depending on the room or application, not every style works well. Each window type has specific pros and cons that can make a significant difference, so knowing the differences and what works best is critical.
Among the factors to consider when buying new windows are:
- Energy-efficient features
- Details on U-factor and R-value
- Available warranties
- Amount of light it allows into your home
However, your research should extend to the contractor as well. Check their product range to see if they offer the window type you are looking for and how many years of experience they have. Inquire about their license and insurance to ensure they are legitimate and that both you and the contractor are protected in the case of an accident. When researching, check online reviews to get firsthand feedback from previous clients and look for potential patterns in the comments, whether positive or negative. It can give you a good idea about the quality of their work.
Hiring an Inexperienced Window Installer
We understand that window installations can be expensive, especially if you have to replace several, but going with the cheapest and often inexperienced window installer is one of the most common and often most impactful mistakes homeowners make when getting window replacements.
It may be tempting to go for the cheap option and hope for the best, but as the saying goes, you get what you pay for, and in the case of window installations, the consequences can be severe. Given that they are critical for keeping the elements and drafts at bay and are crucial for your home’s security, an improper installation can cause more damage, put you and your loved ones at risk, and cause extensive damage that can cost you more than a more experienced and expensive professional would.
Buying Cheap Windows or Using the Same Windows
The same goes for the windows as well. When looking at additional features, such as low-E coatings, gas filling between the panes, quality locks, and more, the temptation might be to just brush them aside, but high-quality windows with energy-efficient add-ons are an investment into your home’s future that can save you money on energy bills, last a lot longer, prevent further replacement for many years, and, ultimately, give you increased comfort and peace of mind.
Another temptation is to go for the same manufacturer and window type as you had before the renovation, but while this can work out great, it can pay off to do your research. There might be new technologies or options available that could get you more energy savings or other benefits that you might miss out on if you simply go for more of the same.
Choosing Design Over Functionality
Windows are an important part of any home’s aesthetic, so obviously, you want great-looking windows, but solely going with this could be a mistake. As we said above, choosing new windows is not just the looks but also functionality. For example, one great option for a bedroom would be an awning window, which is hinged on top and opens outward, allowing you to get great ventilation but with the added functionality that you can keep it open even when it’s raining. Or take casement windows, which open outward as well but are hinged on the side. They are ideal for superior ventilation and direct airflow into your home by acting like a sail.
If you have small children or pets, double-hung windows are unmatched in functionality. They allow you to open only the top part, providing ventilation while keeping everybody safe by keeping the bottom sash closed.
Avoid Making Mistakes with Eco Choice Windows & Doors
If you want to avoid window buying mistakes and get the most out of your window replacements, look no further than Eco Choice Windows & Doors. Our experienced technicians can help you determine the best window for your needs and provide a professional installation to ensure everything fits perfectly.
Eco Choice Windows & Doors is a leading supplier and installer of quality windows and doors. We have been in business for over 15 years, installing windows and doors for many satisfied customers across the province.
We have the knowledge, experience and expertise to recommend the windows and doors that best suit your needs. Simply put, we supply the best quality products, expertly installed and built to enhance energy efficiency throughout the home.
Call us today at (416) 690-9992 or complete our convenient online form to book your free no-obligation consultation to learn more about how we can help you get the front door of your dreams!
