How to Buy Replacement Windows with Confidence

Next you need to factor in the time of the year. This is the type of project that will take several days and your home may be exposed to the elements.

Contact several replacement-window vendors/installers. It's always a good idea to get bids from 3-5 vendors and always let them know that you are getting other bids.

Some types of windows, such as vinyl and aluminum-clad do not require painting and have low maintenance. Discuss the various window types the vendors offer (wood, vinyl-clad, aluminum-clad) and the merits and costs of each.

Think about the energy-efficiency options, such as standard insulated glass, low-e glass and so forth, offered by the vendors. Think about low-e and other high-tech energy-saving options in the context of the estimated savings on your heating and cooling bills. Ask yourself: Do the expected savings justify the extra cost?

Ask your vendors/bidders for references. Check each reference. Naturally you'll probably only get references where the vendor knows a good reference will be given, but you never know. Ask the references: Were past customers happy with the work done? Was the work completed in a timely manner? Have they had any problems since the installation? Did the contractor leave the site in a clean and undamaged condition? Does the contractor have his workers on workers compensation (if not, you will be liable if one of them gets injured on your property)?

Then choose a vendor/installer based upon price, window type, references, liability risks to you and your impressions.

Make sure that the vendor/installer offers a guarantee(s). Sign a contract for the work, as you always want to have something in writing. Never prepay the order. If ordering the windows separately from a vendor, make sure that the installer has signed off on the list to verify that the windows specified are correct.