Window Comparison

Before purchasing new windows for your home it is very important to compare your options. But how does one go about comparing one window manufacturer’s products against another’s? It’s actually quite easy. All windows have certain key characteristics that can be researched and used in order to compare them to others on the market. The first step, as a consumer, is to obtain that information.

There are several ways to get your hands on the information regarding a particular window’s performance characteristics. You should first try to get it directly from the manufacturer’s website. If the information is not listed there, try visiting a local dealer or try writing a request to the manufacturer. One of these three options should get you all the information you will need to make an informed decision.

“What are the characteristics I need to be informed about?” you ask. There are several performance characteristics that most window manufacturers have their products tested for. These qualities generally include the following:

• Wind and Impact-resistance
• Air-tightness
• Moisture and leak-resistance
• Energy efficiency ratings

Use the resources mentioned above to obtain information on these characteristics and then compare the results. By using this information, the relative performance of any two windows can be easily compared. Make sure that you take your geographical location into account when weighing the pros and cons of each quality. For instance, if you live in an area that receives heavy winds and hurricanes, focusing on the windows wind resistance will be more important to you then the energy rating. Consider the application of a product when determining its worth, but also keep in mind that a quality window should be able to offer you the best of each characteristic.

As you begin to do your research and obtain your information, keep an eye out for window manufacturers who cannot or will not provide the information you are requesting. These are the manufacturers you should avoid purchasing windows from because the performance of every aspect of a window should be considered. Without this information, you would be unable to compare that window manufacturer’s products and therefore be lead to make an uninformed decision.

In addition to the aforementioned resources, it is also a good idea to pay a visit to window suppliers’ showrooms or manufacturing facilities. At such places you will be able to physically inspect the windows yourself for comparison. It will allow you the opportunity to test the operation of sashes and other moving parts, as well as test the lock mechanisms and overall construction. Ask to see a cut-away sample if possible and have a sales representative help you understand all the features and benefits of their product. If the sales representative has nothing more to offer then a low cost, chances are that there is nothing more for their product to offer you.

The last important thing to remember when comparing windows is that it is always wise to choose a well-known, established and recognized manufacturer. You may find lower costs with unknown companies, but try to think long term before taking that offer. Will that company be there to service you a year down the road? Maybe they will and maybe they won’t, but is it worth taking that risk? Window manufacturers with a history and reputation to maintain are typically better at servicing their products from start to end and even after the end. Furthermore, they are usually more knowledgeable about their products as well.