If you’re looking into spending money on replacement windows, then you know this is a costly upgrade. Of course, you know it’s worth it. You understand that it will save money on your monthly heating and cooling bills and that it will beautify your home. Here are 4 top tips for you to keep in mind as you start the process.

1-Check the Installer’s Credentials

As in all professions, there are good window installers, and there are poor window installers. You want to make sure you have one of the good guys before the work begins.

Start by checking his online feedback. You can look at his reviews on the search engines or social media, or even look at his rating on a reputable site like Angie’s List for honest opinions.

Ask him about how long he’s been installing windows to ensure he has a good amount of experience. It takes precise measuring and cutting as well as the know-how of proper window fitting to ensure a good job.

Finally, inquire about any installation warranty he may provide and if he’s willing to put it in writing. A 100% customer satisfaction guarantee is often the detail that separates the true professionals from those who are less skilled.

2-Inquire About Manufacturer Warranties

Reputable window manufacturers will warranty their products. Period. On the other hand, there are bargain window companies out there waving the flag for "low cost windows" and selling without regard for customer satisfaction.

Even the cheaper windows add up to a sizeable chunk of money. But without a warranty, you could be left with sub-par windows and end up spending even more money to replace those!

To break the code that is warranty-speak, look for three things:

1. The number of years of the warranty, which may be stated as "terms" in the legal talk of the document.

2. Look to see exactly which parts of the window are covered by the warranty

3. Read to find out of the warranty is transferrable. This means that, in the unlikely event that you sell your home, the warranty would carry over to the new homeowners.

3-Check the Energy Star Rating of the Replacement Windows

Before you make a final decision on a window, check out its Energy Star Rating.

To obtain Energy Star certification, windows must meet or exceed stringent criteria, such as the following:

• Framing Materials that are durable and well-insulated;

• Multiple Panes, as opposed to single panes, to hold the insulating gas efficiently;

• Warm Edge Spacers, constructed from non-metallic materials, which reduce heat loss;

• Low-E Glass to reduce damaging ultra-violet rays from penetrating into your home;

• Gas Filled Panes, usually with argon gas, to increase the insulation properties of the windows.

Rest assured, if the windows are Energy Star Rated, then they are quality windows which will make your home more comfortable.

4-Find Out if the Window Installation Company is Insured

We’ve told you to check out the installer’s credentials and make sure he has a great track record and lots of happy customers.

In addition, ask if the company is insured. You must make sure that they are covered. In the unlikely event of an accident during installation, you don’t want to face the liability.

At the very least, you want to make sure they carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance for their installation team. In fact, if you ask them for proof of coverage, sent to you by their insurer before the job starts, you can have peace of mind that you are not liable for any accidents.

Wrap-Up

Energy-efficient replacement windows are such a smart investment. You’ll add value to your home, enjoy the great-looking new windows, and save money on your energy bill. In addition, you will have peace of mind as you move forward with the purchase of these windows armed with the insider knowledge I’ve provided in these four tips.

AUTHOR BIO:

Dan Hatcher is the owner of Zen Windows Austin. With a can-do attitude and a zest for customer service, Dan’s always happy to go the extra mile for his customers. When he’s not beautifying Austin one window at a time, Dan enjoys spending time with his children.