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1. Choose the Right Type of Window

   Wood, aluminum, vinyl, single pane, double pane, seal type, glass type: it is not as simple as just measuring the opening and fitting in a new box. Many factors need to be considered including ongoing maintenance costs, ease of replacement, environmental factors such as heat, cold, severe weather, energy efficiency, ease of cleaning and more. Make sure you work with a professional who can help you understand the options and what is right for your home and needs.

2. Energy efficiency

   Whether you are in a temperate, hot or cold climate, a great deal of energy can transfer through windows, costing you more in heating and air conditioning monthly. Selecting windows that include energy efficient features such as double panes, insulated glass and efficient seals can save you big in the long run.

3. Installation process

   
   Make sure you fully understand what will be included when having your windows replaced. Does your contractor remove masonry, replace and trim? What if there are wood frames? How are they removed and replaced? What kind of caulking is used? What clean up is done after windows are installed? What if your windows are non-standard sizes or types?

4. Know your Energy Star "U-value"

   
   The Energy Star program established by the U.S. Government Enviormental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1962 provides energy efficiency ratings on products with the goal of saving you money and protecting our environment. Energy Star rated windows, properly sized and installed, can save you on your annual energy bills. All products that carry the Energy Star rating have met very strict energy efficiency guidelines as established by the EPA. The “whole window U-value” of your window is the Energy Star measure that helps you understand the window's efficiency. This measures the rate of heat flow through a window with the lower number indicating the more energy efficient the window is.

5. Know your installation contractor

   Is your contractor licensed and bonded? Does your contractor have adequate insurance? What warranties do they provide for both materials and labor? Does the contractor obtain the proper permits and follow all local and regional codes and regulations? How reliable is the contractor? What work have they done in your area? Be sure to ask these questions before you hire!

6. Low "E" Insulation

   For comfort and protection of the interior of your home, ensure the glass has low emission coating. Not only does it protect pictures and wall coverings, these coatings can add 10% to your energy savings.

7. Gas Filling

   If you purchase double paned glass windows, the space between the windows can be filled with gas such as argon or other inert gas. Since these gases are heavier than air, they reduce the thermal conductivity thus keeping the temperature inside your home more stable during changes in temperature outside.

8. Warranties and after sale service

   One of the most important elements of your new windows is the service you receive after the installation is complete. Does your contractor offer a standard warranty? What does that include: product, labor, parts? For what length of time does the warranty cover? Is there an extended warranty? What does that include? For how long? What does it cost? How are service calls requested? Is there a cost? Will the company be around for the next 10 years to service the windows they install?

9. Window Cleaning

   
   In addition to the mechanical performance of your windows, ease of maintenance and cleaning may be important to you. Do the windows feature tilt-in sashes that allow you to easily clean the outside of the window without the need for a ladder.

10. Price isn't everything

    

    The natural inclination is to find the lowest price. While price should be a consideration, the most important part of the decision should be value and return on investment. Will the contractor charge you a fair price and one that covers the cost of quality products and installation? Do the features of the windows match your aesthetic, care and comfort? In the long run a lower price might actually cost you more in energy, replacement and maintenance costs?

    At Sears Home Services, we want you to find the window contractor that is right for you. We believe that providing you all the resources and information to make an informed decision is right for you and for us. We are confident that once you have this information you will know that when you trust Sears Home Services to complete your work, you will receive all the help you need through the process from the initial free sales consultation to the measurement and installation of your new windows and well beyond. Our professional project consultants help you properly measure the windows, select colors and types of materials and much more to insure that the window you install is both aesthetically appealing and durable. We also provide a one stop resource for turnkey completion of your project including permitting, material measurements and ordering and professional project management. Our project managers work with you every step of the way to insure the job is completed correctly and professionally. No need to worry about schedules and timelines, they have you covered. And when the installation is complete, you will know that Sears will be around to service and warranty the work. We’ve been serving customers like you for 125 years!