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Buying Replacement Windows:So now that you've decided to replace your existing windows, how do you decide on a contractor and manufacturer to give you the quality your looking for? In our experience most people have decided to replace their existing windows because of:
Replacing windows in your home is not a project that should be jumped into without a little research. You will be opening up the "building envelope" of your home and you need to be sure you've picked a contractor who is trained and experienced in making sure your home's envelope is left in as good or better condition as when they started. Considerations before you sign:Who is the manufacturer of your windows? Is their business focused mainly on building renovation window or is the new construction "spec builder" market their primary focus. Many manufacturers who are primarily focused on the "spec" new construction market are in an industry that is very competitive and volume driven. Often this leads to a situation where they are forced to price low, and may have to cut corners to keep their volumes up. Manufacturers who are dedicated to the renovation window market tend to spend more time building a quality product, delivered when promised, and are committed to service any problems if they should arise in a timely manner. These manufacturers have built products that meet or exceed CSA standards. They also saw the importance of making sure that they obtained a Power Smart rating on their products, when BC Hydro was running its Power Smart Home Improvement Program from 1990 - 2002. Installation Company:No matter which manufacturer you end up choosing, it ultimately will come down to the quality of the installation. Good windows installed improperly will cause you nothing but problems in the future. So it's important to choose a company who is experienced, and trained in proper renovation window installation methods. Thermal King Glass has made a major commitment and investment over the last 24 years in making sure our installers are at the leading edge of the industry. Just because it was good enough last year, doesn't mean it's good enough today. Thermal King Glass, along with several other contractors in BC, made a substantial investment to help the Building Performance Association (BPA) set up and run and independent testing program. The purpose was to find out the pros and cons of various installation methods being used throughout BC. This was done because there are no official standards for renovation window installations in BC. These test were done by building a hut on the grounds of BCIT in Burnaby, then having windows installed using the main methods of installation done in BC. These windows were then subjected to various tests to determine air leakage, water egress etc. An independent body did all testing, and the contractors and manufacturers who paid for the testing did not control the results. The results found strengths and weaknesses in all methods and as a result the BPA came up with recommended installation standards. Most contractors in our area have no idea what the results of these tests! Most are installing exactly as they have for years. Questions to ask your contractor:How long have they been in business? Do they know about the BPA installation recommendations? Has the company been around long enough to have a good history in the community? Are they likely to be around long enough to live up to their guarantees and warrantees? Do they have local references? Can you visit their showroom and see the products they are asking you to buy or do they just have a phone # and a truck. Do they have a web site, an address in the phone book, liability insurance and WCB? Did you know that if you hire a worker without WCB, you can be held liable for any injuries on your property! Have they informed you about any grants or rebates? Financing available? Are they members of the BBB (any problems?), Chamber of Commerce, Trade Associations? At Thermal King Glass we believe that contractors who are serious about their industry are active members of community and trade associations, and are generally the most professional and reliable. If you look at the major contractors in any industry you will see that they almost all are active in these areas. Price:Absolutely price is an important factor in buying new windows, or any home improvement. Generally this is usually one of your major investments in your home. For most people there is a strong desire to choose the lowest bidder, and if you plan to sell the house soon this may be your best option, but if you plan to remain in the home for several more years you need to consider what you are getting for the below market price. Are you getting an installation that is rushed without taking time to pay attention to details, are the windows minimum construction grade? At Thermal King we are committed to installing quality products, and spending the necessary time to make sure the job is done right the first time! Remember you will probably be using and looking at these windows for many years to come, and you as the homeowner are more inclined than a homebuilder to look at the long term. Over time you will appreciate quality, appearance, and warranty more than getting a poor job at a low price.
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