Why do I want new windows?

For our own home project, replacing the windows was the last thing listed on our inspection report when we bought the house.  Our windows had white streaks in between the panes of glass, and water and mold in between the panes of our bedroom window, which meant that the seals were broken.  We had to use sticks to hold open a couple of our windows because the cords were broken in them.  We got tired of looking out our bedroom window and not being able to see the pretty view of the mountains.  Now, we plan on staying in our house for a very long time, so we reasoned to improve the home while we could. However, if you’re planning to sell your unit, upgrading the windows in it would likely increase the sale value.

Stay in contact –

Keep our property manager informed as to what you are doing.  If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to e-mail or call him.  The only thing he told us to do was to make sure they were white with the grids in them.

Do your homework! - Company Selection -

This is a very important step.  The hard part is choosing the company to do the work.  Let me tell you, there are a lot of companies out there that want your business.  Go to the Better Business Bureau website (www.BBB.com), or call them to see how the companies you’re considering rate.  Call the Chamber of Commerce to see what they say about the companies. I found the internet very helpful in finding information about windows and professional installers.

Select at least 3 companies that you have deemed reputable and have them come visit your house for an estimate.  If you do not like any of the 3 you have chosen, choose some more. You don’t have to go with the first one that comes to your house.   We went with Champion Windows (which was our 3^rd pick) because they offered us a good product, good financing, and a good warranty.  We had offers as high as $12,000 and as low as $3600 for 6 windows.  So be careful.

Keep your alarm system in mind!

As you probably know, our alarm systems are hooked up to our windows and doors through series of magnetized sensors. Call Advanced Alarm and let them know that you’re having your windows replaced so that they can replace these sensors.  Since our dues only cover monitoring, if you have Advanced Alarm come out and do the work, the cost is your responsibility.  It cost us a total $75.00 for 45 minutes and a $30 for the service call.