Avoid buyer’s remorse when shopping for new or replacement windows for your Kansas City area home by knowing which questions to ask before you purchase. At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we have 25 years of experience, and we know all of the questions homeowners wish they had known to ask before making a final decision. We have created this guide full of questions that we know you will wish you “woulda” asked before you bought your windows:
Will My Replacement Windows Match My Existing Windows?
This is an important question to ask when you just need to replace a few windows in your home. You want to make sure they look the same! Don’t try to window shop for a replacement window that looks similar on your own as you will probably end up unhappy with the results. You not only need to take into consideration the materials the windows are composed of (like wood, vinyl, or composite), but also the the type of configuration (like double-hung or casement). Your replacement window should have the same look and function as your existing windows.
You should consult with a window professional at an experienced window company who can help you find a perfect match. Be cautious of a window supplier that only offers one type of window, as their opinion will be biased, and their window recommendation might not match anything you have. There is no “one-type-fits-all” in window replacement.
Related Reads: 4 Money Saving Features to Look for When Choosing New Windows
Will I Lose Glass Due to Thicker Window Frames?
There are two types of replacement windows – pocket replacement windows and full frame window replacement. The one you choose will affect the amount of glass area.
Pocket windows are manufactured to fit inside of an existing window frame in your home. Many homeowners choose to go this route because they don’t require a lot of work inside or outside of your home, they tend to be less costly, and they take less time to be installed. Many window contractors only offer pocket type installations.
Because the pocket windows have a frame of their own, which fits inside of the existing frame, you will likely lose some window space. This problem is even more noticeable if you have narrow windows, or multi-units such as twin or triple wide casement type windows, and the posts that separate the windows are left in place. The space between the glass can be double what it is currently, and that beautiful view of your yard is lost to your new window frame.
If more glass space and natural light are important to you, you may want to go with a full frame window replacement. All-Weather offers both types of installations and your consultant can help you make the right choice to maximize your view.
Another factor that affects glass size is frame size. Some window brands have large, beefy frames that reduce the glass size, while others offer slim-line frames that give more glass area. Both can be installed as pocket replacements or as full frame replacements. Just ask, and we’ll explain the differences to you and show you examples of all of the styles.
Will My Blinds and Window Treatments Fit the New Windows?
This is one question most homeowners never think to ask. They assume it will all be the same but not all window frames are the same size. When replacing your windows, it is important to pay attention to the differences in dimensions. If you ask your window company this question they will be able to plan ahead, and help you find new replacement windows that will work with your existing window treatments. No one wants a surprise after their new windows are installed that they need to buy new plantation shutters!
Also, be sure to find out who is responsible for removing and reinstalling window treatments as most contractors do not provide this service. All-Weather can quote this as an option for you in most cases.
