At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we want to save our customers money in any way we can. Of course, we never sacrifice quality for savings, but we know some insider secrets to help you keep your window project within your budget. But before we get to that, we want to share the most important tip of all. Find a good window company before you do anything else. Once your windows are installed, if you’re not happy, you can’t take them back and start over. Reputation matters, check references, read reviews, and visit their showroom. Make sure they stand behind their work with warranties. Two guys with a truck may be the cheapest price, but it will cost you in the long run, and where will they be when your windows fail? You want to pick a company that is going to be there ten years from now to honor the warranty that they sold you. Even if you don’t choose us, make sure you choose someone reputable and trustworthy.

So now to the meat of it. How do you save money without compromising quality? Here are some insider tips from the crew at All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding.

1. Choose Standard Colors 

One of the simplest ways to save money on replacement windows is to stick with the standard colors offered.  Most window companies sell frames that are a basic color like white, almond,or taupe. These colors go with everything and every style of home. Because they can mass produce these frames, they are more affordable. Any color that is out of the ordinary, will take more time and therefore, cost more.

2. Change the Type of Window 

There are two ways that changing the type of window can save you money. The first tip is easy, but just not often thought of as an option. Change multiple windows into a large picture window. Let’s say you have multiple windows in your kitchen. You can replace them with one large window and actually save money. Many homeowners are pleasantly surprised to discover this option. They end up with more light, and a beautiful, uninterrupted view. If it is a window that you really want to be able to open, you can install horizontal sliding panels instead of typical double-hung windows. The sliding panels also work if you need egress windows say, in a bedroom. The look is more elegant, but the price is actually lower. Just make sure you have enough windows that open in each room (for ventilation and egress purposes) and then change the rest into beautiful picture windows for lovely views and plenty of daylight!

The second way you can save money by changing window types is by eliminating the need to have tempered glass. Tempered glass is more expensive than regular (annealed) glass and building codes require it to be used if certain conditions exist. When a window is within two feet of a door, or if it is within 18 inches of the floor and more than nine square feet in area, it must be tempered glass. Wet areas such as bathrooms require tempering if the bottom edge is less than 60 inches from the floor. Knowing this, if you had a large picture window within 24 inches of a door, which would need to be tempered, you could reconfigure it by dividing it into smaller units so it wouldn’t have to be tempered. A good installer will explain your options.

3. Change the Grid Options

Grids are the horizontal and vertical lines that separate a window pane. Grids are labor intensive to create, so they increase the cost of the window. Grids, or grilles as they are sometimes called, are strictly for looks, so you can reduce them or completely remove them without compromising any window quality or function. Many homeowners choose to keep the grids only on the windows on the front of the house. More modern style homes can usually eliminate them altogether. You can also choose windows with fewer grids. You could choose windows with 6-section grids instead of 9-section grids.

There are also two different types of grids – grids that are attached to the surface of the glass making it look more realistic like there are truly separate pieces of glass being held in a frame. These are referred to as Simulated Divided Lite or SDLs. The other option is grids between the two panes of glass. These are referred to as GBGs or Grids Between Glass. If you touch the window, you cannot feel the grills. SDLs are more expensive than GBG because they require more materials and more labor. 

4. Use Standard Sizes 

As with color, sizes fall into standard categories as well. Window manufacturers mass-produce the most common sizes knowing that they will eventually be needed. Custom sizes require more labor and are more expensive. Typically, when a home is built there are some pretty standard sizes that get used. If you stick with those, you will save money. 

5. Replace All of Your Windows at the Same Time

Buy more windows. It may sound counterintuitive, but if you are planning on replacing all of the windows in your home, it’s more economical to do it all at once than in several smaller projects. There are economies of scale involved. First of all, windows are cheaper in larger quantities and the company only has to process and coordinate the job once. And don’t forget that most manufacturers will have annual price increases due to material prices rising. It may be more economical to do it all at once and pay it off over time if you can get a decent interest rate on a loan. One other thing to consider is your time used to coordinate two or three projects plus the hassle of living in a home during several renovations.

6. Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons

Be careful to buy only what you truly need in a window, especially if staying within budget is paramount. Don’t let anyone talk you into upgrading the hardware,  adding special film to prevent breaking, or upgrading to triple pane windows if double pane will do the job for your climate. 

7. Pay with Cash or Check

When paying with a credit card, most companies will have to charge you the extra 3% service fee that the credit card companies charge them. With window projects costing thousands of dollars, it doesn’t make sense. Paying with cash or check will be less expensive. Many window companies also offer financing to help you spread the cost out over time.

The last word of advice is to make sure your window installers are experienced. If you go with a reputable company that stands behind their windows and installation with a warranty, you should be assured a smooth, seamless, and safe experience. Quality windows installed poorly are simply poor windows, and they will not perform to your standards. 

At All-Weather, we have been serving Kansas City for over 30 years and we offer a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee! We hope you’ll trust us to take care of your window, door, and siding needs. Call us at (913) 262-4380 or come see our showroom at 7710 Shawnee Mission Parkway.

When you hear Andersen Windows, you may think “Renewal by Andersen”. That’s not surprising. They spend a lot of money advertising so you associate their name with the Andersen window product. And they provide that product. The problem is, people think RBA is the only place to purchase Andersen windows in KC and that’s just not the case. 

The Better Choice for Andersen Window Installation

Take All-Weather, for instance. We are a very unique dealer in that we specialize in installing the complete product portfolio from Andersen, along with siding and doors, exclusively to homeowners. We are an Andersen Certified Installer. But because that’s not all we install, we can’t spend as much of our marketing budget letting people know. Unfortunately for the consumer, many times, they will get a bid on Andersen windows from RBA and think that they are the only Andersen dealer in town. They never realize that they have another, better choice.

Better Prices on Andersen Windows

All-Weather is one of the oldest locally owned “Andersen Circle of Excellence” showrooms in the metro area. This means we buy wholesale directly from Andersen the same way that the big box stores and the lumber yards buy their Andersen Windows to sell to other contractors and builders. We can offer more product options, more installation types, and more value add-ons than RBA. 

The Best Warranties on Andersen Windows

Our Andersen replacement windows are beautiful…and they are backed by lengthy warranties on both the glass and non-glass parts. We are Andersen window experts who know the different models. We can help you find the best style to fit your home and budget. Plus, we are Andersen Certified Window Installers! We have been trained and certified so that means your Andersen windows will be installed correctly according to the manufacturer’s specifications. 

Why Buy Andersen Windows from All-Weather?

We were providing Andersen windows for nearly a decade before the first RBA window was ever sold in Kansas City. When you’re in the market for Andersen windows, go ahead and get a quote from RBA, but don’t forget to get a quote from us as well. Stop in our showroom on Shawnee Mission Parkway. Touch them. Compare them. See and feel the quality. But most of all, compare the price. We’ll give you the best deal, the best installation, and the best warranties. Throw in our exceptional customer service and you’ve got the best place in Kansas City to buy quality Andersen windows. 

Better Customer Experience

We could sit here all day and tell you how much better your experience will be with us, but honestly, it means a lot more coming from one of our customers. So don’t take our word for it. Here is a testimonial from one of our customers from the Nextdoor app. 

“I got Andersen windows from Renewal by Anderson some years back and then about a year or so ago, got Andersen windows from All-Weather Windows on Shawnee Mission Parkway. Hands down, I would choose All-Weather Windows again for my Andersen windows. Love the windows, and the installation was awesome.” 

If you’re considering Andersen windows, make sure you consider All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding. Call us at (913) 262-4380 in Kansas or (816) 452-4380 in Missouri or make an appointment online.

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) 262-4380 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) 452-4380 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. 

Your home could have the best windows in the world but if they are not installed correctly, they will not perform correctly. Cracks, rotting, and mold buildup are only a few signs that your windows were poorly installed, and now is the time to call in the experts. All-Weather Windows, Doors & Siding has been installing windows throughout the Kansas City metro for more than 30 years and we have witnessed, firsthand, the importance of quality window installation. 

Signs of a Bad Window Installation

There are many signs of poor window installation. Unfortunately, many times they don’t show up until your windows have been in place for a year or more. Here are the most common issues:

Condensation

Condensation between the window panes is one of the first things homeowners notice after having windows installed improperly. It’s one of the top reasons people replace their windows. Windows are designed to complement the vapor barrier created by your walls. The goal is to prevent moisture from passing through from the outside around the window frame. But if proper steps are not followed during the installation process, vapor will condense on cold surfaces between the frame and the wall. Where there is condensation (moisture), rotting will follow. People think condensation is a problem with the window itself, but 9 times out of 10, it is the result of poor installation. 

With All-Weather, you won’t have to worry about rot, mold, and mildew in your home. Properly installed windows can eliminate these health risks and improve your home’s indoor air quality. Never settle for anything less than professionally installed windows!

High Energy Bills 

Professional window installation will reduce heating costs in winter and air conditioning costs in summer. If your energy bills are not decreasing, or even worse, increasing, your windows probably weren’t installed properly. Your wall’s air barrier is critical to keeping your home snug. Any break in this barrier is a potential area for heat exchange – in the winter your heat will seep out and in the summer, the heat will seep in. Even tiny cracks around the window frame can lead to air infiltration and substantial heat and energy loss. Add this up over years and you’re looking at hundreds or thousands of dollars in energy loss and higher bills. 

Leaks

One of the main purposes of windows is to keep out harsh weather. Sure, we also want them to let in sunlight and allow us to have a nice view, but those are all secondary reasons to have windows. Proper window installation will create a continuous water barrier between the window and the wall keeping moisture from rain and snow outside.  Even the smallest gap or crack will grow to be a big problem. Mold, rot, and if left untreated, even structural damage can occur severely affecting your property value, not to mention your comfort level. With All-Weather’s experience and unique weatherproofing installation techniques, your property will be as weather-tight as possible. 

We Are Andersen Certified Window Installers 

Most window and door installers in Kansas City are trained on the job by other installers. While this is not the best way, it is the way it has been done for decades. Because we are on the service side of this industry, we have learned that most of the issues that people have with their windows and doors are installation-related. Most times the failure of the product could have been prevented had the window installer been properly trained. At All-Weather, all of our installers are Andersen Certified Installers.

Our Installation Skills Were Tested to the Limits and the Windows Held Strong

Our installers undergo an intensive certification course that includes both classroom and hands-on training at the Andersen Factory in Bayport, MN. This training includes subjecting our window installations to wind loads in excess of 120 mph, and rain the equivalent of seven inches per hour at the Research and Testing Lab. Our installers passed with flying colors! All-Weather now has more Andersen Certified Installers than any other company in Kansas City! Why do we go the extra mile? We want to ensure that we are offering only the best value to our customers. Even if you do not select us for your window project, insist the contractor you hire be properly certified by the company that makes your windows.

The Best Installation Guarantees in the Business

Every certified installed project comes with a 2-year installation limited warranty from Andersen Corporation. In addition to the manufacturer-provided labor warranty, All-Weather also offers our exclusive 5-Year Installation Warranty! We are that confident in our product and our installation. And we’re also confident in our customer service. That’s why we can offer our 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee! Simply put, we’re not happy unless you’re happy. Our goal is to help you lower your energy bills and create a more comfortable, beautiful home for years to come. 

The Best Replacement Windows in Kansas City

We choose Andersen windows because we know replacement windows. For over a century, The Andersen 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. We know Andersen windows and doors inside and out, so we can bring you the best product and the best service in Kansas City. Our customers are not just a number to us. They are our lifeblood. 

If you’re ready to add Andersen energy-efficient windows to your Kansas City home, give All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding a call at (913) 262-4380 or (816) 452-4380 and we’ll not only help you choose the right Andersen windows for your home, we’ll install them the right way so you’ll have no worries for years to come.

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) 262-4380 or (816) 452-4380 and we can walk you through all of your options.