Our homes’ windows do us a world of good—let the sunshine in, keep us warm in the winter with proper insulation and cool in the summer by preventing too much heat from getting in.  But sometimes our windows can let us down when they become old or damaged and must be replaced.  When you find yourself in need of replacement windows, there are a number of questions to ask before moving ahead with the project.  Anyone who provides an estimate for products and/or installation services should be able to answer…

1. Do I really need new windows?

Whether you actually need windows will depend on how you answer a bunch of other little questions.  Are your current windows hard to open and close?  Are they rotting or requiring ongoing maintenance? Can you feel air leaking into or out of the windows?  Do the windows rattle, or do other outside noises penetrate the house?  If your answer is “yes” to any or all of these questions, installing replacement windows may be a project for the near future.

2. How much visibility will I lose with new windows?

This will depend on how your new windows are installed. Typically replacement windows are installed inside of the main frame of the existing windows. Since the new windows are fitting inside of the old ones this means the new ones must be smaller. This is called a pocket installation and there is nothing wrong with it. In fact, most replacement windows are installed in this way. This allows for a fast, clean installation without disturbing any existing wood trim in the home. However it does reduce the visible glass area of the window. For this reason it is important to select a window that allows you to maximize the visible glass. The Restorations window from Legacy, for example, offers up to 27% more visible glass than other replacement windows.

It is also possible to install replacement windows in such a way that the entire frame of the old window is removed. This is called a full frame replacement and this will give you the best look and will best maximize the viewing area of the glass. The downside to this approach is that it is typically a bit more costly due to increased installation labor and the need to put in new window trim after the window is installed.

3. How long does the window installation process take?

Seasoned professionals know what it’s going to take to complete a project for you.  From materials to time required, they’ll have it covered.  The amount of time required for a project from start to finish depends on the size and complexity of the project.  Generally speaking however, if you plan on installing a large quantity of replacement windows (the entire home, for instance), expect to have the job done over one or two days.

4. Are the technicians certified or factory-authorized? When installation day comes, you’ll want to know that the technicians on the job will provide stellar quality for your money.  Various installers are certified by outside entities, such as Installation Masters, attesting to their competency in overall window installation practices.  Others, however, have gained seals of approval from individual product manufacturers, attaining the coveted “factory-authorized” title.  Legacy’s technicians are factory-authorized, meaning that they have been specially trained by different manufacturers on how to remove and install particular products. 5. What sort of warranty do you offer on your products and work?

If you’ve ever purchased anything substantial, you know that product warranties vary greatly.  When buying and installing replacement windows, find out what the warranty will be for the windows themselves and then find out what the installation company guarantees.  You may find that the manufacturer guarantees its windows for life, while the installer offers only a 10-year limited warranty, promising repairs only in specific circumstances.  Legacy, however, backs all of its window and door products with a Lifetime No Service Charge Warranty, so we’ll replace and repair at no cost to you through the life of your windows.

This is just a sampling of what’s important to know when purchasing and installing new windows.  Once you get rolling through the process, your installer will be able to explain many of the finer details of the process, such as different types of glass, energy efficiency rating and what you should understand about UV light.  When all is said and done, however, you will have expertly-installed, crystal clear new windows that will add beauty and value to your home!