Step 1 - How many windows?: If you are trying to maximize the energy efficiency of your home you will want to replace most, if not all, of your windows. The windows that are out there now are great at minimizing energy transfer in and out of your home, but if you only replace 4 or 5 of your 15-20 windows you will not see a large impact on your energy bills. Of course the rooms you replace those windows will feel better on very hot/cold days, but the overall efficiency of your home will not dramatically increase.
Step 2 - Your Budget: Replacement windows range from $200 to $500 EACH and higher! Be wary of the ads for windows that run less than $200 installed, they are the lowest end and do not offer much, if any, energy efficiency. If you are merely looking to replace the windows with a substitute that only puts glass on your window openings those are a good option
Step 3 - Functionality: Think about what type of windows you want. Double hung's are windows where both top and bottom sashes open and close, sliders are the same but slide horizontally, picture windows are one large piece of glass, casement have the crank at the bottom. Those are the 4 main kinds of windows but you also need to consider what kind of grid package you want, interior and exterior colors, colors for hardware and full or half screens.
Step 4 - Installation Process: In my experience installers can generally install about 10-12 windows in a day. This depends on each job and its own circumstances, what your existing windows are made of (wood, metal or vinyl), but expect 10-12 windows per day for the actual install. Most of the window company's I know only install custom windows, and they usually take 3-4 weeks to be manufactured. Take that into consideration too
Step 5 - Multiple Quotes: Good advice to ensure you are getting a competitive price. However, you will probably see a huge range in prices from different companies. The best thing to do is research what model and brand windows each company uses to compare apples to apples.
Step 6 - Color Options: Many of the vinyl window manufacturers are now offering different colors for the exterior of the windows. It used to be they would only offer beige or white on the exterior, now they are providing 6 or 7 different color options.
Step 7 - Upgrade Options: If you are going to replace your windows you should take on the extra expense and get at least the minimum energy efficient options included that meet either the Energy Star or Federal Energy Tax Credit requirements. It does not cost much more to include the low-e coatings and argon gas and you will be happier in the long run. Vinyl and aluminum may be less expensive, but as long as you choose a window that meets the stringent Federal Energy Tax Credit requirements, you know you are getting a very efficient window, with WAY less maintenance.
Step 8 - References: Asking for references is always a good idea. Any good company will have a list of satisfied customers that will be happy to speak on their experience.
Step 9 - Choosing an Installer: Choose based on price, window type, references and your overall level of trust with the sales person and company.
Step 10 - Guarantees/Warranties: Always get guarantees in writing as well as the terms and prices for your installation. Always ask if there is anything that might come up that would be extra. Some installation companies do not include replacing rotted wood which can be hard to see before your current window is pulled out.
Step 11 - Insurance: Asking for insurance from anyone working on your home is highly recommended. If someone doing work on your home is not insured and gets hurt, it might be on you to pay for their medical expenses.
Tip/warning #2: Go ahead and get double pane windows, they are slightly more expensive but offer a much more durable window, better efficiency, and keep out noise better than single pane. Triple pane is more of a marketing ploy and does not offer too much greater efficiency over double pane windows.
Tip/warning #3: True divided lite windows have separate pieces of glass in between the grids of the window. One of the attractions of double paned glass is the option to have the grids in between the glass to make cleaning and long term maintenance easier.
Tip/warning #4: Be wary of installing your windows yourself unless you are VERY handy and have some experience. The best and most expensive window in the world will be worth nothing if the installation is not performed correctly.
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