When making a larger purchase like windows or siding, it’s tempting to think that cost should be your main determining factor. Let’s face it, these are larger purchases than the ones you make in a normal year and can be challenging to fit into your budget. We wanted to share the story of an Overland Park couple who have purchased replacement windows twice for their home. They were willing to share what they learned.

“Our first window purchase was back in 2010. Our house was only about ten years old, but we noticed that the builder-grade windows were drafty. My computer sat in my bedroom right next to our bay window and I could feel the cold air sneaking in while I worked. My mouse hand was always freezing! Besides being uncomfortable, I knew we were losing a lot of energy as well. We decided to replace all of our double-hung windows on the first floor. 

I checked with three companies in town and decided to go with the best price. The salesman was convincing and the product was good. I figured, “Why pay those overinflated prices?” They installed eight windows total. There was a little trouble with the double window in the dining room when they went to install it. Apparently, they had ordered the wrong size. The salesman assured me they would be able to make it work and all was fine. Fast forward about a year and I noticed that the wood frame around that window was swelling and there were signs of water leaking on my carpet as well. My husband examined the window and discovered that they had forgotten to caulk it along the very top and that’s where the water was coming in. Luckily, the damage was minor and my husband was able to fix it. 

So in 2019, when we noticed that the large window wall in the great room (original windows) was showing signs of wood rot, it was time to go window shopping again. I called three companies and this time, I based my decision on how long they had been in business, what kind of reputation they had and, I‘m not going to lie, price still factored in. I chose All-Weather Windows, Doors & Siding this time. 

The thing I liked about All-Weather was that they talked about the different options I had while the other two companies just gave me a price and never mentioned how the windows would look and never gave me any other options. This window wall is the main focus of our home when you walk in the front door. I wanted it to look good! All-Weather suggested the windows that would give me the most glass per pane (replacement windows are usually a bit smaller than the original windows because they have to fit inside the existing framework of the original window.) My salesman explained that they were not the cheapest option, but would look the best. 

From my research, I knew All-Weather was also an experienced Andersen installer, so I had confidence that they knew what they were doing. Well, here we are, six years later and I’m thrilled with my windows! The window wall looks fantastic and the five double-hung windows we had replaced upstairs at the same time are doing great too. No leaks…no problems. So my advice is to shop around and don’t just base your decision on the price. Your windows will be in your home for decades. It’s worth the time and effort to find and hire a professional who has been in the industry for a long time. 

I will add that All-Weather was not the cheapest or the highest price. Their bid was right in line with the other two window manufacturers we talked to. But the All-Weather people seemed to take the look of the windows into consideration and even let me come to the showroom to touch and feel the different options. They provided better customer service, and after six years of use, I can confidently say quality, professional installation too.”

K. Huber, Overland Park

So when it’s time to replace your windows, do your homework. Choose a company that has been around for years and has a good reputation. At All-Weather, we have over 30 years of experience and we offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. 

Our customers are not just a number to us. They’re our lifeblood. We hope you’ll trust us to take care of your window, door, and siding needs. Call us at (913) 648-9589 or come see our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway.

Replacing your windows is no small undertaking. It is one of the biggest expenses a homeowner will incur. But like any home improvement, it will increase the value of your home. According to Angi, window replacement costs anywhere from $200 to $1,300 per window, depending on the type of window and any related materials and perks. For that price, however, you’ll get a 68% return on investment, not to mention energy savings, a snugger, less drafty home, and the added benefit of your home looking better both inside and out.

Factors That Affect Replacement Window Cost

Other factors that will affect the replacement cost include the type of window, the window frame material, the window size/shape, the level of energy efficiency, and where the window is located. Don’t forget that labor costs add an additional $100 to $300 per window. 

Type and Size of Windows

There are many types of replacement windows – double-hung, single-hung, casement, picture, sliding, swinging, bay, bow, and custom shapes. Standard sizes will be cheaper than specialty sizes/shapes. Larger windows will cost more than smaller windows.

Window Frame Material

There are many different options for window frames. Here is a breakdown of material and average prices:

Aluminum Window Frames

Aluminum windows are the most affordable, but they don’t provide much in the way of aesthetics or insulation. They typically cost from $75 to $400 per window

Vinyl Window Frames 

Vinyl is one of the most popular types of frames and runs from $100 to $900 per window. Vinyl is affordable, durable, and energy-efficient. You cannot repaint a vinyl frame as paint won’t adhere well to it and will crack, peel, and chip.

Fiberglass Window Frames 

These frames are a step up from vinyl. They offer similar insulation advantages but are a bit more durable. They run roughly 15% to 30% more than vinyl, making the national average cost between $500 to $1,500 per window. 

Wood Window Frames 

Wood frames are considered a bit more upscale. They may be required if your home is in a historical area. Wood frames run from $150 to $1,300 or more. 

Composite Window Frames 

Composite frames are made from a mix of PVC polymers and wood fiber for maintenance-free frames. They are very durable and cost between $300 and $1,200 per window. 

Ground Level Or Upper Level Windows

If you are replacing ground level windows, they will be a bit cheaper because there is no additional time or equipment (ladders, scaffold, etc.) so labor costs will be lower.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

The next thing that can really affect the price of your windows is the level of energy efficiency you choose. From double and triple glass to inert gas between the panes, prices can vary greatly. Remember, though, that you will recoup some of this cost in energy savings if you plan to remain in your home for ten years or so.

Existing Window Condition 

If your home is older, if it fell into disrepair, or if it has been a while since it was painted, it’s likely that you will have to replace at least a few areas due to wood rot. This adds to the overall cost of replacement as it includes materials and labor to replace it, but it is absolutely necessary for the new windows to operate properly and stand up to their guarantees. Expect to have some wood rot or small repairs to fix. 

Window Brand Names

Window companies put a lot of money into creating a trustworthy brand known for its quality and energy efficiency. There are many well-known brands with great reputations on the market. Do your research and decide if their features and advantages are worth the extra money once you have an estimate. 

We Partner with Andersen Windows

At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding we have our favorites. We partner with Andersen Windows because we believe they represent the best value in the replacement window industry. We are Kansas City’s premier Andersen Circle of Excellence showroom displaying the finest Andersen windows and patio doors. You can come in and see them in person to appreciate their quality and craftsmanship. Our installers are also experienced Andersen installers. That means your windows will be installed to manufacturer specs and standards which means your Andersen windows will perform as promised. 

100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

We also carry additional lines of replacement windows, entry doors, storm doors, storm windows, and exterior siding products. We have chosen these brands after years of experience in the window replacement business. You can count on All-Weather to bring you the best! We stand behind our windows and our installation with a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee. We’re not happy unless you’re happy. 

If you’re looking for a replacement window company with decades of experience and a quality reputation for satisfaction, stop by our showroom or give us a call at (913) 262-4380 in Kansas or (816) 673-2480 in Missouri and we’ll be happy to give you an estimate on window replacement, door replacement, or siding installation. Or make an appointment online. 

There are a lot of different styles of windows and the terminology can be a bit confusing. At All-Weather Windows, Doors and Siding, we understand. So we thought we’d create this simple window tutorial to help you understand the differences, the names, and why you should choose one style over the other. The next time you’re looking for replacement windows, you’ll know all of your options. So without further ado, here is a pictorial guide to get us started:

Single Hung Windows

Single hung windows, also called sash windows or hung sash windows are made of one or more movable panels, or “sashes”. A single hung window has a fixed top sash that does not slide up or down, so it can only be opened by sliding the bottom sash up. Single hung windows look like double hung windows when they are closed, but are less versatile. 

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows are by far the most popular. That’s because they are the most versatile. They feature two separate sashes (the sections that slide up and down), which allows them to be easily opened to let fresh air in and most can be opened either by sliding the bottom sash up or the top sash down creating even more options. Let’s say you want to open the window on a cool night but don’t want the cool breeze to blow directly on you while you sleep. Or maybe you want to open the window, but don’t want the dog to get out. Simply pull the upper sash down. You can even pull the upper sash partially down and lift the lower sash partially up to let cool, outside air flow in through the bottom while warm air flows out of the top. Many double hung windows also have a tilt feature which makes cleaning on both sides, dare we say it?…a breeze. This is especially helpful when cleaning second story windows and higher. No ladder is necessary, simply tilt both sashes inward to clean from the inside. Because of all of the added convenience features, these windows are typically more expensive than a single hung window of the same dimensions.

Slider Windows

Slider windows do not open by sliding the sashes up and down like hung sash windows, but rather the sashes slide open from left to right or vice versa – side to side. Mechanically speaking, they are double hung windows laid on their sides. They are best for windows that are wider than they are tall and areas that require a little bit wider or more unobstructed view. 

Casement Windows

Casement windows, sometimes called crank windows because a crank is usually turned to open them, are typically chosen for tall, narrow openings. The window is attached to one side of the frame and swings outward like a door opens. Casement windows work well where accessibility to the window is not ideal. For instance, if the window is placed higher on the wall or you have to reach across a counter to open it. The crank on the bottom makes it easier to open than lifting a single or double hung window.Casement windows are typically one pane of glass (no grilles) so they work well where the view is given priority as well. One more benefit is that the open window acts almost like a sail catching any breezes and forcing them into the home. 

Awning Windows

An awning window is a single pane that is hinged at the top of the frame creating an awning effect (hence, the name). An awning window is essentially a casement window turned sideways. However, awning windows are typically smaller and can be installed higher on a wall to add architectural interest and provide ventilation and light without sacrificing privacy or security. They are great for letting air in when it’s raining because the pane keeps the water out. They can be plain or feature grilles.

Bay Windows

Bay windows are larger windows composed of several sections that extend away from the exterior wall of the home. They are available in many configurations including three- and four-window styles. The large center window allows for an uninterrupted view while the side windows can be casement or double hung to allow for ventilation. Adding a bay window automatically adds drama and elegance to any room because they let in lots of light creating a bright, open, airy feeling. Visually speaking, a bay window makes the room feel larger, and physically speaking it can actually make the footprint of the room larger because it can extend down to the floor pulling it out past the line of the exterior wall as well.

Bow Windows

Bow windows are very similar to bay windows and deliver basically the same benefits – a light, open, airy feeling as well as a wonderful view to the outdoors. Bow windows are ideal when you don’t have the space for a bay window. Both styles extend outward, but bow windows don’t extend as far as bay windows. If you have a window in front of a porch or walkway, for example, a bay window may intrude into the space too far to make it practical, whereas a bow window may fit just fine.

Garden Windows

A garden window (sometimes called a greenhouse window) provides a box-like area that extends outward where you can set plants to maximize the amount of light they receive. Typically found in the kitchen, it contains a lot of glass on all sides and the panes are set at 90-degree angles to capture the maximum amount of energy from the sun’s rays. Many times these windows feature a glass shelf that is perfect for plants to get lots of sunlight. 

Picture Windows

A picture window features a large single fixed pane of uninterrupted glass. The main purpose of a picture window is to allow a great view of the outside world. These windows are usually large and do not open. They are usually installed in dining rooms and living rooms where homeowners spend leisure time. They allow lots of natural light, but make sure that your picture window incorporates energy saving features to keep your energy bills under control. 

Hopper Windows

Hopper windows have sashes that open inward and are hinged on the bottom. They are  excellent windows for small bathrooms or basements. Since the windowpane tilts upward, it stops debris from blowing into your house. a hopper window is often placed above other doors and windows (called a transom window when used this way) for extra light and ventilation. 

Special Shape Windows

Arches, circles, hexagonal, octagonal, trapezoid and other specialty shaped windows can be used alone or combined with traditional shapes to add architectural interest and unique character to your home. They are usually more expensive than traditional shapes. 

Tilt & Turn Windows

​​Tilt & turn windows offer dual functionality. The first option is to turn the handle 90 degrees to swing the window sash open into the room – similar to a casement window that opens inward. The second option is to turn the handle 180 degrees to tilt the sash in to vent from the top. This allows for ventilation and security simultaneously. Tilt & turn windows are a popular choice for egress windows as they are large enough to allow a person access in and out. Larger tilt & turn windows can be used to allow access to an exterior space like a roof or balcony. 

We hope this helps you understand the difference between all of the different types of windows and helps you decide which windows to use where. If you need help with installing replacement windows in your home, give us a call at (913) 210-8810 or (816) 673-2480 and we can walk you through all of your options. 

At All-Weather we believe in quality. When it comes to the products we sell – windows, doors, and siding – quality is of the utmost importance. Our products will be an integral part of your home for years, even decades. With exterior products like windows, doors, and siding, they must be made to last. For over 30 years, we have served the KC metro area and now have a customer base of over 40,000 satisfied customers. We are proud of the reputation for quality we have built over those three decades. That reputation for quality is why we choose to sell Andersen windows. 

Andersen Windows Deliver Quality and Value

We choose Andersen windows because we know replacement windows. For over a century, The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation. It is the most recognized and most used brand in the window industry. Andersen replacement windows are simply the best replacement windows in Kansas City that we have found.

Like All-Weather, Andersen has a reputation for quality. But don’t take our word for it. In an article from The Spruce, that compares double-hung windows (the most popular style of window) from top manufacturers, Andersen windows are the gold standard when it comes to quality for the price: 

“Milgard, with fewer lines of windows than Andersen or Pella, can be deemed the bargain window maker of the group; it produces what is often called a builder grade window. 

Andersen is the gold standard; its E and A Series windows are favored by architects. 

Pella falls between Milgard and Andersen both in window quality and prices.”

Andersen Windows Use Fibrex

Vinyl windows are typically “bargain” windows. Andersen doesn’t manufacture all-vinyl windows. They use a proprietary wood composite material called Fibrex. Fibrex is two times as strong as vinyl, performs better when in extreme temperatures and won’t fade, flake, blister or peel. Fibrex is composed of 40% recycled Ponderosa pine wood fibers and 60% polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is unique to Andersen. While Andersen windows are not the cheapest windows, we feel they provide the best quality for the price. Because we plan to be around for a long time, we want our customers to know that they can count on us for quality.   

We Are an Experienced Andersen Installer

The best windows in the industry won’t deliver the look or comfort you expect if they’re not installed properly. Many major window manufacturers train and certify installers for their specific products. At All-Weather, we are proud to be an Andersen Window Circle of Excellence dealer. When we install your windows, we do it exactly the way the manufacturer recommends so the window provides superior performance for years to come. 

If you’re looking into replacement windows, give All-Weather a call at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online and we’ll be happy to help you make this important decision with confidence.