When you’re deciding on new windows for your home, you may have trouble knowing where to begin. New windows are a fantastic way to create a stunning look for your home and add to its curb appeal and overall value, which is why it’s a decision that requires some thought.
At Window World Twin Cities, we specialize in helping Minneapolis and St. Paul homeowners create beautiful exteriors they’ll love. We believe it’s important to ensure all our clients are completely happy with their replacement windows, and we’ll take the time to help you make the right choice.
In this post, we’ll share a complete buyer’s guide to picking out new windows for your home. When you’re ready, we’ll be happy to help you install yours and even help with financing options.
Step 1: Choose a Window Contractor
Before making any other decisions, choosing a window contractor you can trust is important. Although hiring a handyman who offers a cheap rate might be tempting, this decision can cost you down the road.
The problem with these fly-by-night contractors is that they often aren’t available to help you if an unexpected problem arises. They rarely hold the right licensing and insurance, and the windows they install are often constructed and installed poorly.
On the other hand, a trustworthy contractor has been around long enough to be trusted and is willing to back their workmanship and products with a good warranty. Window World Twin Cities has been in business since 1995, and Window World windows are backed up with a warranty to match the quality craft and installation you’ll get.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing to work with a window contractor.
Review Credentials
Official certifications, referrals, testimonials, and online reviews; You should consider these variations of credentials before enlisting any window contractor's services.
Go Over Warranties & Contracts
Schedules, budgets, deposits, warranties on all products, and installation procedures – all of these various elements to replacement window installation must be officially squared away (in writing) before a contractor even lays a finger on your home.
Compare Costs & Financing Options
It’s important to get somewhat of a frame of mind as to what you can expect to spend on your next window installation project. Just because a certain contractor is more expensive or cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ripping you off or providing you with a great deal.
Just be aware of the pricing range for typical window contractor services before choosing a specific company.
Also, note that some companies may offer more flexible financing options than others. We make it easy to get approved for special financing at Window World Twin Cities through our quick application process.
You can get approval almost immediately for smaller projects and pay the services off over time. Then, we can assist you with larger projects as you work with lenders to get a home equity loan.
For more information about our financing options, reach out today!
Step 2: Consider Energy & Performance
Once you’ve chosen a contractor, it’s time to learn about window performance. One of the most common reasons homeowners replace old or outdated windows is because of poor energy performance.
Older windows are often poorly insulated, which can cause energy costs to add up on your monthly energy bills. Poor window insulation can also make your home's interior temperature uncomfortable and uneven.
A well-insulated window is about more than just having the right glass. Hallmarks of an efficient window include a high-performance frame, weatherstripping, and glass panes.
Hallmarks of Window Thermal Performance
When comparing windows, be sure to ask about a window’s R-value. R-value is a term that refers to the window’s thermal performance, a necessity in the cold-weather climate of Minnesota.
A high R-value is preferred over a low one and will keep your home more comfortable year-round by working together with your siding and doors to create a thermal envelope.
It’s also important to consider the wind resistance of a window before making a purchase. For example, Window World windows incorporate 22 layers of weatherstripping, a hurricane-rated steel-reinforced meeting rail, and double-strength glass.
E-Glass & Argon Insulation Installation
Another thing to consider when choosing windows and looking at improved energy efficiency is e-glass and argon insulation. The combination of these two things leads to savings.
To ensure you're getting the most energy-efficient windows, you should partner with a window contractor that offers ENERGYSTAR® Qualified SolarZone™ windows.
Windows are mostly made of glass, so the performance of the glass itself impacts your energy usage. E-glass filters out UV light, and with a combination of this glass and argon insulation, your home can be much more energy efficient.
One benefit of this insulated glass package includes a 58% reduction of solar heat in the summer!
The Energy Benefits of Vinyl Windows
High-performance vinyl windows from Window World are among the best values for the money because they’re affordable and well-constructed. Cheap vinyl windows available from other window installation contractors are prone to damage and are often poorly constructed.
Too often, other contractors install budget vinyl windows with reground vinyl, bulky frames, and shoddy design elements. Window World windows are manufactured with precision corners, constant force balance, maximum glass space, pure virgin vinyl, and special UV inhibitors.
Step 3: Select From Various Window Styles
The style and design of your window may depend on several factors, including your budget, your home’s architectural style, and your aesthetic goals. Before you choose which window design is right for your home, learning about some key differences in window style is important.
Here is a breakdown of our window styles at Window World Twin Cities!
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows use two sashes, one on top and one on the bottom, and open up and down vertically.
This window style generally achieves a more traditional, classic look for your home and is ideal for homeowners looking to achieve better ventilation through their window system without exhausting themselves with routine maintenance.
Casement Windows
Casement windows use a crank with a hinge to open from the side. They also come in various custom color and design options, so you can accentuate your home’s appearance and aesthetics without drastically altering the appearance.
Casement windows are popular because the hinge allows them to open fully, so they are ideal for airflow and great outdoor views. Plus, they have a tight seal that makes them energy efficient.
Sliding Windows
These windows slide open horizontally. Sliding windows are renowned for their energy efficiency, typically with high-quality window glazing that provides ultimate thermal insulation, which can reduce your energy bill.
Bay Windows
A bay window consists of three or more angled panes forming a bay by projecting outward.
Bay windows (and their cousin, bow windows) are highly recommended for adding more space to your living environment, providing a panoramic view of your immediate surroundings, and ideal for letting in more natural light.
Bow Windows
Bow windows protrude like bay windows, but they form an arch rather than an angled bay.
Bow windows will not stick out from the side of your home as far as bay windows generally do, offering less protrusion from your home’s appearance and more room to play with customizable design features.
Awning Windows
Awning windows are similar to casement windows. However, the hinge opens up and down. They tend to be more utilized in taller homes, as they can be safely installed higher on walls, as opposed to other traditional types of windows.
Awning windows are great for second or third-story rooms that want to capture more natural light and improve ventilation while also maintaining a sense of privacy.
Step 4: Customize Your Window Design
Every homeowner or designer fancies beautiful windows that fit into their aesthetic style. With Window World, your window choice can be customized with the colors and textures that fit your lifestyle.
Choose from the following exterior and interior palettes:
- Exterior Colors: Almond, Black, Brown, Bronze, Clay, Cocoa, Cream, Earthtone, Forest Green, Hunter Green, Silver, Tan, and White.
- Interior Colors: Almond, Cherry Woodgrain, Clay, Dark Oak Woodgrain, Light Oak Woodgrain, Tan White, White Oak Woodgrain
Color Coordinating Your Home Exterior
When picking the right windows for your home, you may have questions about how all of your home exterior elements work together. Learn more about color-coordinating your home exterior.
Traditional vs. Unique Window Design
As you choose the right windows for your home, you'll want to consider whether you want traditional or unique windows. Double-hung windows are the most popular option for most contemporary homes because they look sleek and are easy to clean.
However, unique windows are necessary in some situations. For example, a glass block window provides more privacy. Or, you can choose more modern windows with a beautiful design that fits your aesthetic.
Window Glass Options
Whether you're looking to provide privacy, eye-catching decorative detail, or enhance your view, we have the perfect window option for you!
All windows are available in dual or triple pane. Glass options include Obscured, Tinted, and Rain.
Step 5: Prepare Your Home for New Windows
Getting your home ready for window replacement might seem daunting initially, but it’s a fairly straightforward remodeling process. Follow the tips below to prepare your home, and the job will go as smoothly as possible!
Work With Your Window Installation Expert
Still have questions about buying the right windows and finding the right styles? In that case, you should work with the window contractor you’ve hired.
They should be there to help you every step of the way, advise you on the best windows to install, and help you settle on a design that fits your home’s architectural style.
Clear the Way
It’s essential to clear the way before the window installers arrive at your home. This requires the walkway leading to the installation to be cleared of furniture or other obstructions.
Especially if you’re installing a bay or bow window and double-hung windows, it’s recommended that you create more space to accommodate the size of the windows.
Remove Wall Hangings
It’s critical to safeguard your wall decor from harm in addition to cleaning the walkway area. During installation, there is a good chance of some vibrations in the walls.
To avoid any hanging objects falling or shattering due to vibrations, it is best to take them down beforehand.
Turn Off Your Security Alarm
Have your home security company deactivate any alarm systems connected to windows to prevent a false alarm. It’s a good idea to turn off the alarm completely when installing the windows.
Note: You and your alarm company should handle anything to do with your security system, as window replacement contractors are not alarm experts.
Call Our Twin Cities Replacement Window Contractors
If you’re ready to replace your windows, working with a name you can trust is important. We love helping homeowners through the design and installation process at Window World Twin Cities. In addition to windows, we can also help transform your siding and entry or patio doors.
Reach out to our Window World Twin Cities window installation pros at 651-770-5570 or get started today with a free quote!
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